The Consequences of Ignoring Criticism

and dreams. Maulana Mir Mahboob Ali responded that such decisions could not be made solely on the basis of dreams and visions. He cited the Quranic verse: “And their affairs are conducted by mutual consultation among themselves” (42:38). He emphasized that the Prophet Muhammad always made decisions regarding jihad through consultation. Therefore, Syed Ahmed should consult others and carefully investigate the situation before taking any action. However, Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi rejected Maulana Mir Mahboob Ali’s advice. He argued that such criticism was undermining his mission and insisted that Maulana’s obedience should be as unwavering as the mountain in front of them. As a result, Maulana Mir Mahboob Ali chose to return to Delhi. Syed Ahmed reacted strongly to this decision, declaring: “Whoever leaves me and returns to his homeland has abandoned his faith.” (Maulana Ismail Dehlvi aur Taqwiyat-ul-Imaan by Maulana Shah Abu-alHasan Zaid Farooqi, pp. 86-87). In some texts, this incident has been portrayed as evidence of Maulana Mir Mahboob Ali’s deviation. Maulana Syed Abdul Hai Hasani (1869-1923), the former principal of Nadwatul Ulama, Lucknow, wrote that Maulana Mir Mahboob Ali was among the eminent scholars of his time. He pledged allegiance to jihad under Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi and travelled to Yaghistan to support him. However, the devil planted doubt in his heart, leading him to abandon Syed Ahmed and return to India (Nuzhat-ulKhawatir by Syed Abdul Hai, Vol. 7, pp. 406-407). Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi did not consult anyone