Gaylani Family
Definition
The Gaylani Family, also known as the Naqib or Effendi family, is a notable religious and political lineage in Afghanistan. Originating from the prominent Naqib al-Ashraf family of Baghdad, they are recognized for their leadership in the Qadiri Sufi order and their significant influence in Afghan society.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: عائلة الجيلاني
- Turkish: Gaylani Ailesi
Historical Background
The Gaylani family’s Afghan roots trace back to Sayyid Hassan Gaylani (d. 1941), a prominent religious leader who migrated to Afghanistan in 1905. Hassan Gaylani was the younger brother of the Naqib al-Ashraf of Baghdad, a notable religious figure in Iraq. His arrival in Afghanistan was notably welcomed by the Pashtun tribes and Amir Habibullah Khan (r. 1901–1919).
Settlement and Influence
Initially settling in Chaharbagh, near Jalalabad, Sayyid Hassan Gaylani eventually moved to Kabul. As the leader of the Qadiri Sufi order, he cultivated close ties with Afghan rulers and wielded considerable respect and political influence. His leadership paved the way for the Gaylani family’s lasting legacy in Afghan religious and political circles.
Succession and Political Involvement
Hassan Gaylani was succeeded by his sons, Sher Agha Jan (Sayyid Ali Gaylani, b. 1923) and Effendi Jan (Sayyid Ahmad Gaylani, b. 1932). Influential figures in their own right, they navigated the complex political landscape of Afghanistan. Notably, Effendi Jan led the National Islamic Front, Mahaz-e Milli-ye Islami-ye Afghanistan, from Peshawar during the jihad against the Soviet occupation after leaving Kabul in 1978.
Recommended Readings
For those interested in delving deeper into the history and influence of the Gaylani family, consider the following books:
- The History of the Hazaras of Afghanistan: An Extensive Research Based on Ancestry, by Sher Muhammad Mohabbat
- Afghanistan: A Cultural and Political History, by Thomas Barfield
- War Comes to Garmser: Thirty Years of Conflict on the Afghan Frontier, by Carter Malkasian
Takeaways
- The Gaylani family holds a distinguished position in Afghan history due to their religious leadership and political influence.
- Their migration to Afghanistan in the early 20th century marked the beginning of a long-standing legacy.
- The family’s involvement in the Qadiri Sufi order has cemented their importance in Islamic spiritual leadership.
- Political activism, particularly during the Soviet-Afghan War, showcases their enduring influence in the socio-political domain of Afghanistan.
Conclusion
The Gaylani family’s story exemplifies the intertwined nature of religious authority and political power in Afghan history. Their legacy as leaders of the Qadiri Sufi order and their involvement in significant historical movements underscore their pivotal role in shaping the country’s religious and political landscape.
