– By Kamal Sikder
As the proverbial wisdom goes, the length of one’s life may not be of paramount significance; rather, it is the depth and vigour with which one lives during their time that truly matters. Allama Delwar Hossain Sayeedi undoubtedly belongs to the select few whose existence left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of society. He fervently championed the mantra, “Illuminate every household with the radiant wisdom of the Quran.” Revered as the “Nightingale of the Quran,” Sayeedi earned the esteemed title of “Khadem of the Quran” from distinguished scholars of both the Arab and Muslim worlds. He stands as a pioneering orator in Bangladesh, etching a permanent place within the hearts and minds of millions through his profound Quranic gatherings, known as “mahfil.”
Allama Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, a luminary of Islamic scholarship, former lawmaker, and erudite lecturer, emerged as a formidable political figure. Remarkably, he secured a parliamentary seat in 1996 and again in 2001, representing Pirojpur-1, despite the constituency’s predominantly Hindu population.
Nonetheless, in 2010, he faced incarceration on charges of offending religious sentiments. Subsequently, in February 2013, a contentious verdict from the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh sentenced him to death for alleged involvement in activities deemed anti-national during the tumultuous events of 1971. In September 2014, public outcry compelled the Supreme Court to commute his sentence to life imprisonment, raising suspicions of inadequate due process.
Numerous international observers have contended that the accusations against him were politically motivated and misconstrued. Both Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International criticized the fairness of his trial. Leaders of many nations, including the United States, decried his sentence as a miscarriage of justice.
In a poignant parallel to his spiritual predecessor, Imam Ibn Taimiya, Sayeedi met his demise within the confines of a prison cell. Fluent in Bengali, Urdu, Arabic, and Punjabi, he was admitted to a Dhaka hospital on August 14, complaining of chest pains while incarcerated. Tragically, he returned to the embrace of Allah Ta’ala on a fateful Monday evening at 8:40 pm Bangladesh time, his alleged lack of adequate medical attention under the guise of observation hauntingly apparent.
Early Life:
Delawar Hossain Sayeedi entered this world on February 2, 1940, in the village of Sayeedkhali, situated in Balipara Union of Indurkani, then part of British India. His father, Yusuf Shikder, a village cleric and householder, laid the foundation of his early religious education at a local madrasa. Subsequently, Sayeedi embarked on a scholarly journey, enrolling in Charchina Alia Madrasa in 1962 before transferring to Khulna Alia Madrasa. His thirst for religious knowledge was paralleled by a burgeoning career in his local village, where he earned recognition as a Muslim scholar or “maulana.” His linguistic prowess extended beyond the realm of religion, encompassing Bengali, Urdu, Arabic, Punjabi, English, and even French.
Political Life:
Delawar Hossain Sayeedi aligned himself with the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami in 1979, rising through its ranks to become a member of Jamaat-e-Rukan in 1982 and Majlis-e-Shura in 1989. By 1996, he had secured a position on the Executive Council of Jamaat. His tenure as naib-e-ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami from 2009 until his passing underscored his enduring commitment to the organization. Beyond politics, Sayeedi’s eloquence in delivering Islamic sermons, known as “waz-mahfils” and “tafsirs,” propelled him to national prominence.
Sayeedi’s political journey reached a zenith with his election as a Member of Parliament (MP) from Pirojpur-1 constituency in the 1996 and 2001 elections, a noteworthy achievement considering the area’s demographic makeup. His stance on international matters was marked by criticism of the United States’ and its allies’ 2001 campaign to topple the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and eliminate al Qaeda. He vehemently opposed foreign intervention in the affairs of independent Muslim states, particularly in the context of Al Qaeda’s alleged involvement in the 9/11 attacks on the United States.
A Divine Messenger:
Since 1967, Sayeedi has borne the honorific “Dayee-ilallah,” a caller to the path of Allah. Over the span of five decades, he crisscrossed the globe, disseminating the profound tenets of Islam to more than 50 countries. His annual “mehfils” spanned 29 years at Chattogram Parade Ground, graced twice by the esteemed Imam of the Holy Kaaba Sharif. Tafsir Mahfils extended across various locations, including Khulna Circuit House Maidan, Sylhet Government Alia Madrasa ground, Rajshahi Government Madrasa ground, and Bogra city. Sayeedi’s enduring legacy endures through numerous audio-visual records of his speeches, distributed worldwide.
On the International Stage:
Sayeedi’s global mission to propagate Islam took him to numerous nations. Since 1976, he enjoyed the privilege of performing Hajj as a royal guest, courtesy of Saudi Arabia’s invitation. Between 1990 and 2008, he observed Ramadan each year in Makkah and Madinah. Notably, in 1982, he visited Tehran at the invitation of Imam Syed Ali Hosseini Khamini to commemorate Iran’s first revolution. In 1991, at the Saudi King’s behest, he attended the Kuwait-Iraq War Reconciliation Meeting. The Islamic Circle of North America bestowed upon him the title of “Allama” in 1991. Maulana Delwar Hossain Sayedee also received the “Grand Marshal” medal during the American Muslim Day Parade conference in front of the United Nations in New York in 1993. His elucidation of the Quran captivated an audience of over 50,000 in the UAE, hosted by the Government of Dubai on December 8, 2000. In another notable event, he joined the Honourable Imam of the Kaaba Sharif, Shaykh Abdur Rahman As Sudaisi, at the inauguration of the London Muslim Centre, leaving an indelible mark on over 600 non-Muslims who embraced Islam.
A Prolific Author:
Sayeedi’s literary contributions enriched the Islamic canon. He authored numerous books in Bangla, some of which have been translated into English, totalling an impressive 40 volumes.
A epitome of qualities
Allama Sayeedi stands as a paragon of multifaceted qualities, leaving an indelible mark through his myriad contributions to the dissemination of the Quran in a language accessible to the common people. He adhered to the profound wisdom of the Prophet (peace be upon him), who urged, “Teach people in simple words (Allimu wa Yassiru),” and Sayeedi embraced this counsel as his guiding light in propagating Islam. His distinctive approach to conveying the Quranic message earned him the distinguished title of the “Emperor of Quranic Exegesis.”
In an era, preceding Sayeedi’s mission as an interpreter of the Quranic message in Bangla, his predecessors often recounted allegorical tales in a mellifluous manner, weaving a tapestry of truth and falsehood in their Quranic exegesis. Sayeedi, however, blazed a trail as the pioneer of interpreting the Quran using the Quran itself, all in the Bengali language. His method of Quranic interpretation, known as “tafsir,” is a reservoir of knowledge that warrants individual scrutiny. What truly stands out in this regard is the remarkable inclusivity of his tafsir gatherings. In his “tafsir mahfil,” individuals from all walks of life, be they students or teachers, parents with their children, professionals, ordinary citizens, leaders, activists, writers, researchers, and those less privileged or unlettered, would come together to listen and be inspired. Sayeedi’s legacy is one of uniting diverse minds under the illuminating banner of Quranic wisdom, bridging gaps and kindling the light of understanding in the hearts of all who had the privilege of hearing his words.
Such was the enchantment of his discourse that even those who held opposing political beliefs due to his party’s ideology would be drawn to him, much like bees to the delicate petals of a flower, diligently collecting the nectar of his words.
Allama Sayeedi, in addition to his role as the Naib-e-Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, made an indelible mark as a Member of Parliament, representing constituencies in Pirojpur, areas where the Hindu population predominated. Remarkably, his popularity transcended the boundaries of political affiliations, religious divides, and societal strata. This profound acceptance and regard from diverse political parties, religious groups, and individuals from all walks of life in Bangladesh were resoundingly affirmed when they rallied together, putting their lives on the line in protest the death sentence handed down by the Awami Government in 2013. It stands as a testament to the profound impact and broad appeal of Allama Sayeedi’s message and character.
Upon his election to parliament in 1996, during a tenure when the Awami League held power, Allama Sayeedi conducted himself with a remarkable blend of attentiveness and seasoned parliamentary skill. His demeanour in the parliamentary chamber exuded a sense of familiarity, as though he were not a newcomer but a seasoned and proficient legislator.
Addressing the assembly from his parliamentary post, Sayeedi articulated a profound perspective, asserting, “Sovereignty is not a possession of the people, but a divine endowment.” He steadfastly opposed the notion of entering the hallowed halls of parliament with a subservient demeanour, refusing to bow before earthly authorities.
During his parliamentary stint, legislation was introduced and subsequently passed in accordance with standard parliamentary procedures. This affirms, as gleaned from various statements made by political observers, that Allama Sayeedi had indeed made substantial contributions in the realm of politics. His principled stance and unwavering commitment to his convictions were emblematic of his role as a conscientious parliamentarian.
Allama Sayeedi’s unwavering commitment to his principles and convictions shone brightly in the face of adversity. Even when presented with an offer, relayed through a trusted intermediary, that promised his release from incarceration and the fulfilment of any desire if he were to disassociate himself from Jamaat-e-Islami, his response was unequivocal. He met this proposition not with eagerness but with a deep sense of disdain, choosing to stand steadfast in his beliefs rather than compromise his integrity. This resolute refusal underscores the unyielding strength of his character and his unshakable dedication to his ideological values.
Jailed on fabricated charges.
Allama Sayeedi’s ordeal began in 2010 when he was unjustly arrested on fabricated charges of allegedly causing harm to religious sentiments. Subsequently, the situation took an even more contentious turn when the newly established and controversial International War Crime Tribunal included him in a web of concocted accusations related to crimes against humanity.
During the trial, a grievous error came to light when it became apparent that Sayeedi had been mistaken for another individual, Delu Sikder. In a compelling argument, Sayeedi’s legal counsel successfully demonstrated that he and the so-called Delu Sikder were, in fact, not the same person. However, it appeared that the politically motivated elements within the Awami League were motivated by a deep-seated fear of Sayeedi’s influence and decided that it was in their best interest to convict him, thus causing lasting harm to his reputation and legacy. This regrettable turn of events underscores the potential misuse of power for personal and political gain, ultimately casting a shadow on the pursuit of justice.
In 2013, Allama Sayeedi was handed a death sentence by hanging. However, in response to mounting public pressure and concerns about the fairness of his trial, the highest court in Bangladesh, the Supreme Court commuted his sentence to life imprisonment. This decision reflected the significant public outcry and the need to reevaluate the circumstances surrounding his case, highlighting the complex and contentious nature of his legal proceedings.
During his time in jail, Allama Sayeedi faced the heartbreaking loss of his eldest son, Rafiq Sayeedi. Despite his incarceration, he was granted a temporary parole to attend his son’s funeral prayer. Standing before the gathered mourners, he lifted his gaze towards the heavens and, with unwavering resolve, declared, “By Allah! I am not a collaborator. I am free from such allegations.” This poignant moment reflected not only his profound grief but also his steadfast insistence on his innocence in the face of the accusations levelled against him.
Allama Sayeedi faced a grave accusation of being involved in the death of an individual named Bisha Bali. In a deeply troubling turn of events, his own brother, Sukha Ranjan Bali, was coerced into being a witness against him. However, Sukha Ranjan Bali, displaying immense courage and a commitment to justice, refused to testify against Sayeedi. Instead, he expressed his desire to be a witness in Sayeedi’s favour.
Tragically, this courageous act came at a great personal cost. Sukha Ranjan Bali was abducted from the court premises, and he was later discovered to have been held in captivity in a neighbouring country. This sinister turn of events not only underscores the complex and politically charged nature of Sayeedi’s case but also highlights the challenges and sacrifices faced by those who choose to stand up for what they believe to be the truth and justice.
Sukha Ranjan Bali’s attendance at Allama Sayeedi’s funeral served as a powerful and poignant moment. At that solemn occasion, he unequivocally communicated to the nation that Allama Sayeedi was not implicated in the tragic murder of his brother, and furthermore, he affirmed that Sayeedi was not involved in any criminal activities.
Adding weight to these assertions, the sector commander of the Liberation War during that period made a clear and unequivocal statement, dispelling any doubts by confirming that Allama Sayeedi was not associated with the Razakar movement, thus reaffirming Sayeedi’s innocence in the eyes of the nation. Thus he was acquitted of such allegation by Allah (SWT).
Condolences by various Islamic Scholars
The passing of Allama Sayeedi has evoked profound sorrow and condolences from numerous scholars, both within Bangladesh and abroad. Their heartfelt sentiments serve as a testament to the impact and respect he garnered in the Islamic community.
Maulana Salman Nadvi, a globally recognized Islamic scholar from India, took to his verified Facebook page to express his condolences. In an Arabic post, he lamented Allama Sayeedi’s demise, highlighting his contributions as a preacher of Islam and a prominent Quranic scholar. Maulana Nadvi also asserted that Sayeedi had been unjustly sentenced to death on false charges and had been imprisoned since 2010. He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon Sayeedi and strength for his family.
Prominent Bangladeshi scholar Shaykh Ahmadullah remembered Allama Sayeedi’s service to the Quran and his invaluable contributions to the propagation of Islam in the Bengali language. He expressed his condolences and prayed for Allah to accept Sayeedi’s good deeds and grant him the highest place in Paradise.
Mufti Mizanur Rahman Sayeed, the principal of Shaykh Zakaria Islamic Research Centre in Dhaka, deeply mourned Allama Sayeedi’s passing. He described Sayeedi as a humble and non-arrogant scholar and recalled an intellectual debate they had in Madinah Sharif. He prayed for Allah to reward Sayeedi for his deeds and bestow His blessings upon his family and well-wishers.
Renowned columnist and researcher Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain offered prayers for forgiveness and paradise for Allama Sayeedi in the wake of his death.
Allama Junaid Al-Habib, known as Khatib Bangal, expressed his profound grief at the loss of Allama Sayeedi, describing him as the heartbeat of millions of Muslims and an international Quranic scholar. His message resonated deeply with many who knew and respected Allama Sayeedi’s contributions to Islam and the community.
Shaykh Dr. Haitham al-Haddad, a senior jurist at the Islamic Council of Europe and expert in various fields within the Islamic sciences, said of the passing of Shaykh Delwar Hossain Sayeedi,
“This is a great loss for the Ummah and especially for the Muslims of Bangladesh.
“May Allah grant him mercy and elevate his maqām (station) in the Akhirah. He spoke the truth and taught the Qur’ān and guidance to the Muslims.
“He patiently bore the trials of prison and persecution. He died in prison like many of our Salaf, whilst remaining steadfast upon his path.”
Thousands gathered in his funeral.
In Pirojpur District, a solemn and dignified funeral procession was held in his honour. Thousands of individuals from various walks of life gathered at the Sayeedi Foundation grounds to pay their respects and bid farewell to this eminent leader.
In many parts of the world Janaza in absentia was held in honour of the eminent leader.
Conclusion
Allama Sayeedi is not merely a name but a profound chapter in history. His legacy will endure through the countless prayers offered by millions of people from the human family, and this reverence will persist in the days to come.
What’s noteworthy is that even those who held opposing views to his political philosophy have come forward to express their condolences, acknowledging the depth of his impact and the significance of his contributions.
Furthermore, the news of Allama Sayeedi’s passing had such a profound effect that it prompted the expulsion of hundreds of leaders and activists from the Awami League and Chhatra League. This act of reading “Innalillah” (a phrase expressing condolences in the face of loss) underscores the wide-reaching respect and regard for his life and work, transcending political boundaries and affiliations. His legacy, it is clear, has touched the hearts and minds of a multitude, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness.
Indeed, the passing of Allama Sayeedi has stirred the creative spirits of poets and artists, inspiring them to craft poetry and songs filled with emotional and heartfelt prayers. His love for all, regardless of political affiliations, shines as a beacon in the memories of those who knew him. His inclusive stance, declaring ownership of not just one party but embracing all, has left an indelible mark.
As a result, individuals from all walks of life, bound by their shared humanity and compassion, now unite in prayer for Allama Sayeedi, often with tears in their eyes. His legacy of love and acceptance transcends political boundaries and serves as a testament to the enduring power of his character and beliefs.
Allama Sayeedi’s humility was a defining aspect of his character. Despite being a renowned scholar and a globally recognized Mufassir, he chose to identify himself as a student of Taleb-e-Ilm (a seeker of knowledge) or Tafsir (Quranic exegesis) rather than solely embracing the title of Mufassir. This choice reflected his deep humility and a profound understanding of the limitless depths of knowledge that the Quran holds.
Furthermore, his open-mindedness and receptivity to advice, even though he was such an eminent scholar and world-famous Mufassir, were a testament to his humility. This quality allowed him to continually learn and grow, emphasizing that true knowledge is a lifelong journey, and one should always remain open to new insights and perspectives. Allama Sayeedi’s humility and willingness to engage with others contributed to his exceptional influence and resonance in the hearts of those he encountered.
According to Islamic tradition and the Hadith, it is believed that one or more “mujaddids,” or renewers of faith, emerge in each century. These individuals play a significant role in revitalizing and rejuvenating various aspects of the religious sphere. In the case of Allama Sayeedi, it is evident that he made substantial contributions as a “mujaddid” in the fields of Tafsir (Quranic exegesis) and Rajniti (politics).
His work in Tafsir was marked by a dedication to unveiling the true meaning and guidance contained within the Quran. He emphasized the importance of speaking the truth without fear and remaining resolute and unwavering in one’s faith, even in the face of oppressive forces. This unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his refusal to compromise with oppressive regimes exemplified the qualities of a true “mujaddid,” as he worked to promote and uphold the principles of justice, truth, and religious integrity. Allama Sayeedi’s legacy serves as an inspiring example of the impact one individual can have in renewing and strengthening faith in the face of adversity.
Allama Sayeedi staunchly opposed practices associated with shirk (associating partners with God) and bid’at (innovations in religious practices), as well as the veneration of shrines and mausoleums. Through his powerful and insightful sermons, he played a pivotal role in removing these practices from society. His efforts went beyond just theological debates; they had a profound impact on the ground.
Through his waz (religious discourses), he not only removed shirk and bid’at from society but also extended the peaceful and welcoming embrace of Islam to non-Muslims. His teachings and presentations illuminated the beauty and essence of Islam, attracting many non-Muslims to its serene fold. Furthermore, he reached out to Muslims who may not have had a deep understanding of their faith, guiding them towards a truer and more authentic practice of Islam. Consequently, many individuals transitioned from the path of ignorance and darkness to the path of enlightenment and righteousness under his guidance.
Allama Sayeedi’s mission was not only to purify religious practices but also to bridge divides and offer the transformative power of Islam to all, fostering understanding and unity among diverse communities. His efforts reflect a commitment to spreading the true message of Islam and guiding people towards a path of spiritual enlightenment and goodness.
Indeed, figures like Allama Sayeedi are rare and extraordinary, emerging only once in many centuries. The depth and breadth of his life and work are so profound that they warrant extensive research and scholarly examination. To truly appreciate and understand his contributions, it is essential to delve into various aspects of his life, from his scholarly achievements to his impact on society and his unwavering commitment to his principles.
The legacy of individuals like Allama Sayeedi goes beyond mere discussions or writings; it calls for in-depth research and academic exploration. This may involve Ph.D. research, biographical studies, and comprehensive analyses of his contributions to fields like Tafsir, Islamic scholarship, and social reform. Such research not only honors his memory but also helps future generations to comprehend the profound impact of his life’s work.
Allama Sayeedi’s life and work serve as an inspiration and a source of valuable insights, and rigorous scholarly investigation can shed further light on his enduring legacy and the lessons to be learned from his extraordinary journey.
Many hold the hope that the Allama Sayeedi Foundation will continue to play a pivotal role in nurturing and producing worthy scholars and Quranic exegesis experts in the future. This foundation can serve as a beacon for those aspiring to delve into the profound study of the Quran and Islamic scholarship, carrying forward Allama Sayeedi’s legacy of dedication to religious knowledge and its dissemination.
Additionally, individuals who admire and respect Allama Sayeedi can contribute by reading the books he authored and by actively participating in the institutions he established. By immersing themselves in his writings and following in his footsteps, they can continue to propagate his teachings and principles.
In the vein of scholars like Imam Ibn Taymiyya and Mujaddid Alfe Sani, Allama Sayeedi’s contributions to the establishment and preservation of Islamic principles are notable. Those who have endured persecution and hardships should remain actively engaged in the movement for the renewal and establishment of religious values and practices, as this is vital for the continuity and strengthening of faith. Allama Sayeedi’s legacy serves as a guiding light in this endeavour, inspiring many to contribute to the cause of religion and its steadfastness.
