Manifestations of Prophetic Love: Intellectual Dimensions in the Writings of Shaykh ʿAbd al Ḥaqq Muḥaddith Dehlavi

حبِّ مصطفویﷺ کے فکری مظاہر:شیخ عبدُالحق محدث دہلویؒ کی تصانیف کا خصوصی مطالعہ

Abstract

Shaykh ʿAbd al-Ḥaqq al-Muḥaddith al-Dehlavī (1551–1642 CE), was a great and prolific scholar, and a towering figure in the realm of classical Islamic sciences of South Asia. He was known as a leading figure and pioneer of Hadith sciences in the subcontinent. Over his productive life period, he authored more than a hundred outstanding books, many of which molded the subcontinent’s Islamic reformative face. For instance, his “Ash‘āt al‑Lam‘āt” on Mishkat al-Masabeeh presents a theological explanation of Hadith. Similarly, prophetic biography known as “Madarij al‑Nubuwwah”, “Tārīkh al‑Madīnah”, and spiritual travelogue “Jazb al-Quloob” have clearly reflect his deep affection for the Holy Prophet ﷺ. Shaykh ʿAbd al‑Ḥaqq Muhaddis Dehlavi demonstrated a unique synthesis of laborious scholarship and deepest devoutness. His legacy in Hadith and other practical Islamic exposition may continue to inspire generations who intend to pursue knowledge in the realm of Islamic sciences. This article will also explore his oeuvre showing profound devotional love for the Prophet and his organization of the spiritual practice of Ihtifal (birth celebration, naat khawani, narrating miracle of the Prophet’s birth night and Miʿrāj Sharīf and dhikr bil-jahr), proclaiming these as entrenched in prophetic tradition and energetic expressions of spiritual yearning. This study will also highlight his emphasis on the harmony between scripture, tradition, and self-purification, encircling the love for the Holy Prophet ﷺ as both foundational canon and divine sustenance.