Introduction
Hazrat Sultan-Ul-Arifeen Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA), also known as Makhdoom Sahib and Mehboob-ul-Alam, is one of the most revered Sufi saints of Kashmir. Born in the 15th century, he dedicated his life to spreading Islam, promoting spirituality, and guiding people towards truth. His teachings emphasized Shariah, Sunnah, Hanafi jurisprudence, and Sufi mysticism, making him a central figure in Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural history. Today, his shrine on Hari Parbat, Srinagar, is a sacred destination for devotees worldwide.
Early Life & Background
Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA) was born around 1494 CE (900 AH) in Tujjar village near Sopore, Kashmir. His family belonged to the respected Raina clan, known for their piety and scholarship. His parents, Usman Raina and Bibi Maryam, raised him with deep spiritual values that shaped his future path as a saint and reformer.
Education & Spiritual Journey
From an early age, Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib (RA) showed extraordinary intelligence and devotion. He studied at Shamsi Chak seminary and later at the madrasa of Sheikh Ismail Kubrawi, mastering Islamic sciences such as:
-
Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
-
Hadith (Prophetic Traditions)
-
Tafsir (Quranic Exegesis)
-
Philosophy and Logic
-
Tasawwuf (Sufism)
He was initiated into the Suhrawardiyya and Kubrawiya Sufi orders, gaining spiritual training under great masters. His life of simplicity, prayer, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah) became an inspiration for his followers.
Teachings & Contributions
Hazrat Sultan-Ul-Arifeen (RA) dedicated his life to spreading Islamic values in Kashmir. His key contributions include:
-
Promotion of Shariah & Sunnah: He guided people to live according to Islamic law with sincerity and devotion.
-
Elimination of Superstitions: He built mosques and established Islamic practices in areas where myths and superstitions prevailed.
-
Integration of Kashmiri Culture with Islam: He respected Rishi traditions and engaged with saints like Baba Rishi, creating spiritual harmony.
-
Mentorship: His disciples, especially Hazrat Baba Dawood Khaki (RA), carried forward his teachings across Kashmir.
Legacy & Shrine
Hazrat Makhdoom Sahib (RA) left this world in 1576 CE (984 AH) at the age of about 82. He was buried on the southern slope of Hari Parbat (Kohi Maran) in Srinagar, where a magnificent shrine was later built by Emperor Akbar and rebuilt in the 19th century by Afghan governor Atta Mohammad Khan.
Today, the Makhdoom Sahib shrine is one of the most visited religious sites in Kashmir, where thousands of devotees seek blessings and spiritual peace.
Why Hazrat Sultan-Ul-Arifeen Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA) is Revered
-
Symbol of spiritual reform in Kashmir
-
Advocate of knowledge, simplicity, and devotion
-
Bridge between Sufism and Rishi traditions
-
Guardian of Islamic values and unity
Hazrat Sultan-Ul-Arifeen Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA) remains a shining light in Kashmir’s spiritual history. His teachings of love, devotion, and truth continue to inspire generations. A visit to his shrine at Hari Parbat, Srinagar, is not only a pilgrimage but also a journey into the heart of Kashmir’s spiritual heritage.