1. Great Religious Thinkers of the
Subcontinent
Shah Waliullah, Syed Ahmed Shaheed
Barelvi, Haji Shariatullah
2. Shah Waliullah (1703–1762)
slated Quran into Persian
cated educational reforms
moted socio-economic justice
: 'Ignorance is the root of decline; knowledge is the key to revival.'
3. Syed Ahmed Shaheed Barelvi
(1786–1831)
- Led jihad movement against Sikh rule
- Advocated Islamic state based on Shariah
- Mobilized Muslims through reformist teachings
Quote: 'Struggle is the way to protect faith and honor.'
4. Haji Shariatullah (1781–1840)
Launched the Faraizi Movement in Bengal
Urged focus on obligatory duties (Faraiz)
Opposed un-Islamic practices & landlord oppression
Quote: 'Faith must be rooted in action and purity of practice.'
5. Comparative Contributions
ah Waliullah: Education & revival – Quran translation & reforms
ed Ahmed Barelvi: Political & military – Jihad Movement
i Shariatullah: Social & religious reform – Faraizi Movement
6. O Level Style Questions
a) Describe the main teachings of Shah Waliullah. (4)
b) Why was Syed Ahmed Barelvi’s movement significant? (7)
c) To what extent was Haji Shariatullah successful? Explain. (7)
7. Activities
Group Discussion: Compare challenges faced by the thinkers.
Timeline Exercise: Place thinkers on historical timeline.
Role Play: Present each thinker’s mission in their words.
8. Conclusion
- All three thinkers worked for revival and unity of Muslims.
- Contributions strengthened Muslim identity.
- Legacy: Inspired future leaders and reformers.