Ashraf Ali Thanwi Quotes (1862-1943)

“Without the head, man is a dead body. So too, without prayers, all other acts of worship are lifeless.”

“The enthusiasm which I had for debating in my young days is now replaced by as much aversion for it because of its harms.”

“Energizing one's intellect and disposition is not the way to success. The kindness of the Master cannot be achieved without humility.”

“Knowledge prevents one from going astray because of the realization of the truth. This in itself is a great treasure.”

“Mosques  are  not  places  for mundane  activities.  Mosques  are  erected  purely  for  the  remembrance and worship  of  Allah.”

“"The reality of character is that we must not cause any form of difficulty and inconvenience to anyone, outwardly or inwardly, in his presence or in his absence."”

“Scholars are much needed as they are the backbone of religion. Scholars are more needed than Saints otherwise no one would know the religious ordinances and limits.”

“To assume a task beyond one’s capability is not proper for a Mu’min. The consequence will be failure, disgrace, worry, and shame. Frustration will then overtake one.”

“People are excessively obsessed with dreams. Their concern for things which they dream is greater than their concern for things which effect them during their state of wakefulness. How confused are they!”

“The seeking of wealth for a valid reasons is exhorted and is full of significance. Lawful wealth too plays its part in the acquisition of peace of mind, which is an end desired by the religion.”

“If by practicing on any form of piety, someone’s heart will be broken, then practice on the fatwa (verdict of the scholars). At such occasions, to protect one’ piety is not permissible e.g. If, in accepting any gift, there is disgrace for you and honour for your brother, then give preference to his honour over yours.”

“Lowering oneself, which is called Tawaadhu’ (humilty), is a great and valuable asset. To achieve this quality, many of the servants of Allah abandoned their kingdom and empire. They didn’t care in the least what people thought of them. Surely, humility must then be a much-prized quality so that people gave it preference to it over the entire world!”