Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi: Illuminating Minds and Shaping Thoughts

August 31, 2024

Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi: Illuminating Minds and Shaping Thoughts

Dr. Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi:

Illuminating Minds and Shaping Thoughts

DR BASHARAT KHAN

In the quiet embrace of Doabgah Rafiabad, the year 1958 unveiled the dawn of intellectual brilliance embodied in Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi. His academic odyssey commenced at Doabgah High School, where the fertile soil of knowledge nurtured his burgeoning intellect.

Venturing into the pursuit of wisdom, he immersed himself in the study of Arabic, Urdu, and Political Science at Government College Sopore, intricately carving the pathways of his scholarly pursuits.The zenith of his educational pilgrimage unfolded as he ascended to the echelons of academic prowess, earning a Master's degree in Theology and Philosophy from AMU Aligarh adorned with Gold medal. The pinnacle of academic accomplishment crowned his journey with a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Guided by the sagacious hands of Prof. Syed Vahiduddin Haidarabafi and Prof. Syed Ausaf Ali, Professor Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi sculpted an insightful treatise on Ghazali and Western Thought, a harbinger of the profound book that would follow.

Moving from Aligarh to Idarai-Tasneef (the Institute of Writing scholarly Studies) his scholarly pursuits flourished under the mentorship of Maulana Syed Jalal-ud-din Ansar Umari, exploring themes that transcended boundaries, such as the Islamic concept of migration.

Professor Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi's academic sojourn traversed borders, gracing countries from the United States to Saudi Arabia, Iran to Bangladesh, and Turkey to Malaysia and Indonesia. His scholarly footprint left an indelible mark on the global academic tapestry.

The literary legacy of Professor Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi gleams through a constellation of authored and edited books, illuminating the realms of philosophy, theology, and Islamic studies. His profound understanding harmoniously interweaves Eastern and Western thought, showcasing a rare expertise.

In the realm of education, Professor Rafiabadi dons multifaceted roles--as the Head of the Department of Religious Studies at Central University of Kashmir, Former Dean of the School of Social Sciences, and Former Director of the Shah-i-Hamadan Institute of Islamic Studies at the University of Kashmir, Srinagar. His role as the Director International Center for Spiritual Studies Islamic University of Science and Technology Awantipora JK, Academic Advisor J&K Private School Assocaition Srinagar, and the driving force behind the Forum for Inter-Religious Understanding and the Academic Committee for Philosophy, IOS, New Delhi, positions him as a beacon of enlightenment, shaping the intellectual landscape with profound wisdom and scholarly acumen.

Currently, as a visiting Researcher at ISTAC International Islamic University of Malaysia, Professor Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi stands as a distinguished academician, philosopher, and prolific author. His contributions span diverse genres, including biographies, criticism, interpretation, and history.His books on Philosophy and his translation of Ibn Rushd’s book has been teffered. with an annotated bibliography by Prestigious Publisher Brill Netherlands in their Supplement on Muslim Philosophy (2007)

Within the academic realm, Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi has held leadership roles at the Central University of Kashmir, serving as the In-Charge Dean for the School of Media Studies and Former Dean for the School of Social Sciences. His significant role as the Former Director of the Shah-i-Hamadan Institute of Islamic Studies at the University of Kashmir in Srinagar reflects his commitment to fostering academic excellence.

Actively contributing to the education landscape, he served as the Academic Advisor of the Jammu & Kashmir Private School Assocaition Srinagar. His involvement as the Convenor for the Forum for Inter-Religious Understanding at IOS, New Delhi, and the Academic Committee for Philosophy at IOS, New Delhi, underscores his dedication to promoting intellectual dialogue and philosophical discourse.

Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi's literary contributions encompass various dimensions of Islamic studies, philosophy, and cultural exploration. Noteworthy publications include Ghazzali and Western Thought (2000), Challenges to Religions and Islam" (3 volumes, 2007), Islam and Sufism in Kashmir: Some Lesser Known Dimensions (2007), Hijrah: A Turning Point in Islamic Movement (editions in 1989, 1996, 2006, 2007, and 2010), A Translation of Ibn Rush’s (Averroes) Famous Treatise Faslul-Al-Maqal (1994), A Brief Introduction to Islamic Epistemology, Ilm Al Kalam & Muslim Philosophy (2010), Sufism In Kashmir: Prominent Sufis and Rishis (2015), Difayi-Iqbal (In the Defence of Iqbal), Muslim Falsafah: Aik Mukhtasar Tarikh (Short history of Muslim Philosophy) (2017), Islami Aqaid aur Shariat wa Thaqafat (Islamic beliefs, Shari’ah and Culture 2017), The Qur'an Illustrated, Islamic Thought, Saints And Saviours Of Islam, Muslim Philosophy Science And Mysticism, Religions And Islam (A Critical Study), Afkar I Taaza (Translation of the selected muqalat of Syed Jamal Uddin Afghani), Adai Izhar Ki Tamanna (A Poetical Composition), Assam From Agitation To Accord, The Intellectual Legacy Of Ibn Taimiyah.

A forthcoming book titled Woman, the Religions of the World, Feminism, and Islam--A Critical Study further underscores his commitment to exploring contemporary issues through a critical lens.

In Muslim Philosophy: Before & After Al Ghazzali, Dr. Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi critically evaluates the decline of philosophy in the contemporary era, highlighting the impact of social media, AI, and OTT platforms. The book explores the contributions of Muslim philosophers like Al Farabi and Ibn Rushd, challenging the notion that Imam Ghazali solely caused the decline. It delves into Ghazali's nuanced approach, debunking myths and emphasizing his contributions to psychology and political theory. Rafiabadi also examines Shah Waliullah's efforts to align Sufism with Islamic principles and the unique role of intellect in religion. The work concludes with an exploration of Allama Iqbal's thoughts on Prophethood.

The Quran Illustrated: Tafsir of Surah Al-Fatiha' (2009) is a skillfully crafted journey into the deep layers of the Quran. With 604 pages, it explores the Quran's evolution, specifically focusing on the interpretation of Surah Al-Fatiha. What makes this work unique is the author's inclusive approach, avoiding sectarian biases and incorporating insights from various commentators.

Going beyond interpretation, the book covers essential topics like the sciences related to the Quran, its preservation, and global Quranology scholarship. In essence, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Quranic studies, underlining the significance of authentic teachings.

Ada'i Izhar Ki Tamanna, crafted by the skilled pen of Dr. Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi, stands as a poetic masterpiece. Delving into Urdu Naats, Hamd, Ghazals, and Nazams, this collection emerged into the literary spotlight in July 2002 at Kashmir University's Iqbal Auditorium, earning acclaim from luminaries like Prof.Bashir Ahmad Nahvi ,Prof. Rahman Rahi and Hakeem Manzoor.

What sets this work apart is its non-sectarian approach, drawing inspiration from poetic giants such as Ghalib, Iqbal, and Faiz. The verses traverse diverse emotional landscapes, from anguish and sorrow to aspiration and ecstasy, unveiling a constant tension within Rafiabadi's poetic expression. Amidst this, the poet's serious and sober tone subtly reflects on the challenging conditions in Kashmir.

Critics hailed Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi's for his moral sensibility, free from sectarian biases, and commended his timely thematic choices. Professor V. N. Datta highlighted the poet's sensitivity, expansive interests, and clarity of expression.

R. K. Bharati applauded Rafiabadi's commitment to modernizing the Muslim community and championing the philosophy of universal brotherhood.

In essence, "Ada'i Izhar Ki Tamanna" not only showcases Rafiabadi's profound poetic prowess but also becomes a testament to his ability to gracefully address both personal emotions and societal challenges.

DR Muhammad Iqbal, a revered Urdu and Persian poet, is the subject of numerous literary works, with over 2,000 books published about him. Dr. Hamid Nasim Abadi's book Khutbate-e-Iqbal Ka Tanqidi mutaleya delves into Dr Iqbal's overlooked religious thought, applauding Syed Wahiduddin's work for its fearless exploration of Iqbal's independent voice.The book discusses Allama Iqbal's unique views on God, time, and space, emphasizing his rejection of determinism and the significance of time in human life. Dr Hameed Naseem Rafiabadi's scholarship is lauded for insightful analysis, revealing Iqbal's profound musings on fundamental aspects of existence.

Challenges To Religions And Islam authored by Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi is an extensive work delves into the unexplored realms of the challenges faced by Islam and Muslims in the 20th century. From imperialist pressures to the Ottoman downfall, Israeli occupation, Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, to the recent conflicts, the book reflects on the tumultuous era. Notably, it highlights the emergence of thinkers, reformers, and movements rejuvenating the Islamic spirit. Profiling figures like Jamaluddin Afghani, Iqbal, and others. The voluminous tome serves as a comprehensive exploration of contemporary Islam.

In addition to his authored works, Dr Rafiabadi has edited collections, including "Nigarshat: Collection of Literary Essays" and "Sarmai–I-Hayat: Collection of Essays on Ethics and Moral Teachings."

In conclusion, Dr Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi's profound impact on academia, extensive literary works, and commitment to inter-religious understanding solidify his position as a thought leader and a prominent figure in the academic landscape.