Ubaydullah Sindhi

Ubaydullah Sindhi

Introduction

Ubaydullah Sindhi (1872-1944) was an influential Indian Islamic scholar and an ardent proponent of the ideas of Shah Wali Allah. He was originally from a Sikh background but later converted to Islam. Sindhi is best known for his involvement in the Deobandi movement, which sought to reform and purify Islamic practices in the Indian subcontinent. His work aimed to forge alliances between traditional Islamic scholars (ulama) and modernist intellectuals, especially at institutions like Aligarh University.

Etymology and Definition

• Etymology: The name Ubaydullah comes from Arabic, meaning “Servant of Allah” (عبيدالله, pronounced: ‘ʿUbaydullāh’). Sindhi denotes his association with Sindh, a region in modern-day Pakistan.
• Arabic Translation: عبيد الله السندي
• Turkish Translation: Sindhli Ubeydullah

Historical Context

Ubaydullah Sindhi’s work must be understood in the backdrop of British colonial rule over India, which significantly impacted the socio-political and religious landscape. His teachings aimed to address the challenges that Muslims faced, particularly the threat of westernization and the erosion of Islamic values.

Contributions and Influence

1. Reformist Ideas: Sindhi emphasized the need for a reformist and progressive interpretation of Islam. He believed Islam encourages social justice, the fight against imperialism, and the eradication of feudal practices.

2. Deobandi Movement: Joining the Deobandi movement, he became an influential voice calling for a return to the pure and authentic teachings of Islam.

3. Alliance with Aligarh University: Sindhi sought to bridge the gap between the traditional Islamic scholars and the students and intellectuals from Aligarh University. This was part of his broader effort to modernize Islamic education while retaining its core values.

4. Peaceful Jihad: He advocated for a peaceful form of jihad, emphasizing non-violent struggle against injustice and oppression.

5. Exile and Activism: His critique of British imperialism led to his exile by the British authorities. However, even in exile, he continued his activism and intellectual contributions.

Suggested Books for Further Study

1. Ulema in Politics by I.H. Qureshi
2. Islamic Revival in British India: Deoband, 1860-1900 by Barbara D. Metcalf
3. Shah Wali Allah of Delhi and His Times by Saiyid Athar Abbas Rizvi
4. Political Thoughts of Allama Iqbal by Albela Faqeer

Takeaways

• Reform through Collaboration: Sindhi’s work serves as a reminder of the potential for rich collaboration and dialogue between traditional and modernist scholars.
• Social Justice: His belief in Islam’s inherently revolutionary character that advocates for social justice and opposition to oppression is particularly significant.
• Peaceful Activism: Sindhi’s approach to jihad stresses the power of peaceful protest and non-violent resistance against injustice.

Conclusion

Ubaydullah Sindhi remains a seminal figure in the annals of Islamic reformist thought. By marrying traditional Islamic scholarship with modern educational ideals, he left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire contemporary discussions on the relevance and application of Islamic teachings in modern socio-political contexts. His life and work highlight Islam’s potential to advocate social change, justice, and peaceful coexistence.