Mulla Asghar Memorial Series of Books –

The Legacy lives on…….

Jab tak mai’ jiu’ , kihdmate qaum karta rahu’ mai’,

Maut aa’e to ya rab, esi khidmat me maru’ mai’.

If we study the subjects of Fiqh in detail, we find that every one of them is peculiar and singular in itself. There may seem to be some similarity at first glance, but a deeper study reveals a different aspect contained. It meets with the requirements of all walks of human life.

Some of the laws relate to the natural urge in human beings to adore and worship. It guides us to worship none but Allah, in the prescribed form, seeking His pleasure. Then there are laws, which prompt us to serve, be helpful and useful to human society, at the same time affirming our obedience to Allah. These are Zakat, Khums, our social and political duties, Jihad, Amr bil Ma’roof and Nahy anil Munkar, training in martial arts etc.

Other laws enunciate man’s duties towards oneself like refraining from suicide or harming oneself or even avoiding celibacy. Certain laws deal with human life in relation to nature surrounding him like food, drinks, hunting, slaughtering, dresses, use of utensils and so on. Then there are laws of judiciary, requital and compensation. As for personal life, Fiqh guides us in matters of Nikah, Talaq, Dhihar, and Lian. In matters of economy and earning one’s bread, there are rules governing business, partnership, silent partnerships, bankruptcy etc. Fiqh also deals with such versatile acts like Haj, which apart from being an act of worship is an opportunity of unity, collaboration and an international conference.

In spite of this diversity, Fiqh has one single aim; to lead human beings to happiness on earth, thereby conjoining it with salvation in the hereafter. Therefore, Fiqh is considered as one, composite science of Islam and is taught as such in the Hawzas. The basis of Fiqh is the Holy Qur’an, the sound traditions, consensus and reason. A Faqeeh looks at the diverse component of Fiqh as parts interwoven into one fabric, with a single aim to guide mankind in respect of its duties and responsibilities towards Allah.

Marhum Mulla Asghar has left an unforgettable mark on the entire Shii Community in this era. A multifaceted person of this caliber, with such an impact, only emerges but once in a lifetime. As a brilliant communicator, he eloquently presented the teachings of Ahlul Bait (AS) to the masses at large.

Acclaimed by his contemporary scholars, his deep insight into the subjects of Fiqh, theology, philosophy, theosophy as well as contemporary issues was legendary. As an educator par excellence, his ability to inform and educate his students on Islamic concepts was truly enlightening. Through his thought provoking writings and inspiring speeches countless minds have been set thinking, and many lives have been changed. His impact on our society is nothing short of phenomenal and one that has been instrumental in shifting paradigms.

I hope that this Commemorative series of books, marking the 25th Anniversary of the World Federation, will continue to radiate the teachings of Ahlul Bait (A.S.) to the world at large through the words of this great scholar. By supporting the Mulla Asghar Memorial Fund, which, amongst other educational projects, has made this series of publications possible, you will help ensure that his passion for disseminating the teachings of Ahlul Bait (A.S.) continues after him. Together, we can give reality to the many dreams he had and help the World Federation continue on the path of service that he blazed under his charismatic leadership. I ask you remember Marhum Mulla Saheb with a Sura e Fateha.

Hasnain Walji

President,

The World Federation of K.S.I. M C.

September 15, 2002