Hazrat Bahauddin Zakariya, also known as Baha-ud-din Zakariya, was a prominent Sufi saint and scholar of the 12th and 13th centuries. His influence extends far beyond his lifetime, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual and cultural landscape of South Asia. Born in 1170 in Kot Kehror, a town near Multan in present-day Pakistan, Bahauddin Zakariya is revered for his contributions to the Suhrawardiyya order of Sufism and his role in spreading Islamic teachings across the region.

Early Life and Education:

Bahauddin Zakariya was born into a family of scholars. His father, Wajih al-Din Muhammad, was a respected figure, and his mother was the daughter of Husam al-Din Tirmidhi .From a young age, Bahauddin Zakariya exhibited a keen interest in religious studies. He traveled extensively to seek knowledge, studying under various scholars and Sufi masters.His quest for spiritual enlightenment eventually led him to Baghdad, where he became a disciple of the renowned Sufi master Shahab al-Din Abu Hafs Umar Suhrawardi.

Establishment of the Suhrawardiyya Order in Multan:

In 1222, Bahauddin Zakariya settled in Multan, a city that would become the epicenter of his spiritual activities. He established a madrasa (Islamic school) and a khanqah (Sufi lodge) in Multan, attracting students and disciples from far and wide. His teachings emphasized the importance of inner purification, devotion to God, and service to humanity. Under his guidance, the Suhrawardiyya order flourished, and Multan became known as the "Baghdad of the East".

Spiritual Philosophy and Teachings:

Bahauddin Zakariya’s spiritual philosophy was deeply rooted in the teachings of his mentor, Shahab al-Din Suhrawardi. He believed in the concept of “wilayat,” or spiritual territory, where the influence of a Sufi saint extends beyond their physical presence. His teachings focused on the unity of God, the importance of following the Sharia (Islamic law), and the pursuit of spiritual excellence through self-discipline and meditation.

One of his famous Persian couplets reflects his deep connection to Multan:

Multan ma ba jannat a'la barabara

Ahista pa ba-nah ke malik sajda mi kunad

(Translation: Multan of ours is equal to high Paradise. Tread slowly, the angels are in prostration here.)

Contributions to Islamic Scholarship:

Bahauddin Zakariya was not only a spiritual leader but also a prolific scholar. He authored several works on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Sufism. His writings continue to be studied and revered by scholars and spiritual seekers alike. His emphasis on the integration of spiritual and worldly knowledge set a precedent for future generations of scholars.

One of its Famous Lines about him: