Exploring Khawaja Noor Muhammad Maharvi's Role in Spreading Islam and Spiritual Advancement in Bahawalpur Region
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55737/qjssh.691107428Keywords:
Bahawalpur State, Khawaja Noor Muhammad Maharvi, Sufism, Amir Bahawal Khan Abbasi II, Shrine, Chishtia OrderAbstract
Hazrat Khwaja Noor Muhammad Maharvi, a Sufi saint from Tehsil Chishtian, played a significant role in spreading Islamic teachings in the Bahawalpur region. He got his early education from Mahar Sharif, a small village near Chishtian. For higher education, he went to Dera Ghazi Khan, Lahore, Delhi, and Pakpatan. He pledged allegiance to his mentor, Shah Fakhruddin, in Pakpatan. On his return to Mahar Sharif, he took steps to spread Islam in the area. As a result, thousands of people benefited from his teachings. His caliphs and disciples started promoting religious education in their native areas. It is worth mentioning here that as a saint, Khwaja Sahib became famous and earned a high place in Punjab. Even Amir Bahawal Khan Abbasi II of Bahawalpur State was highly affiliated with him, and he was inspired by his teachings. Even the local people of South Punjab, especially the Bahawalpur region, have been blessed with his teachings and spiritual guidance. Nowadays, there is a madrasa, library, and a mosque adjacent to the Khanqah of Khawaja Noor Muhammad, where a number of students are acquiring religious knowledge. His Khanqah is a source of spiritual blessings and guidance for his devotees and the general public.
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