When was Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi (Mujaddid Alif Sani) born?

Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi, widely known as Mujaddid Alif Sani, was a prominent Islamic scholar and spiritual reformer of the Mughal era, recognized for his efforts to revive and purify Islamic teachings. He was born in 956 AH (1551 CE) in Sirhind, Punjab (present-day India). His title “Mujaddid Alif Sani” means “the Renewer of the Second Millennium,” reflecting his role in rejuvenating the spiritual and religious life of Muslims during a period of widespread innovation (Bid’ah) and neglect of traditional Islamic practices.

Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi’s contributions include promoting orthodox Sunni Islam, emphasizing the importance of following Shariah, and defending the principles of Tasawwuf (Islamic mysticism) while opposing deviations that had crept into society. He also wrote extensively, leaving behind a significant body of letters and treatises known as Maktubat-e-Mujaddidiya, which continue to guide Islamic scholars and spiritual seekers.

His birth date is often confused with other scholars of the period, but historical records confirm 956 AH as correct. He grew up under a scholarly and religious environment, which shaped his profound knowledge of Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, and Sufism. Shaikh Ahmad Sirhindi passed away in 1034 AH (1624 CE), leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most influential Islamic reformers of the Indian subcontinent.