Who Were the Prophets Sent to India According to Islam?

By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 10 August 2024 Identifying Prophets Sent to India: Speculative Arguments Vs Reliable Evidence The Question of Which Prophet Was Sent to India Has Been a Subject of Debate Throughout History, With Scholars Primarily Relying On Speculative Arguments Rather Than Concrete Evidence. Experts in Comparative Religions, Including Scholars with PhDs, Believe, And of Course There Are Some Quranic Verses to Support the Faith That Allah Has Sent a Messenger to Every Community, Making It Plausible That Prophets Must Have Been Sent to India. However, This Does Not Obligate Us to Identify the Specific Islamic Messenger or Prophet Appointed to India. Islamic Scholars and Ulama Emphasize the Importance of Faith in Allah and His Messengers, While Some Hindu Scholars Also Oppose the Notion of Their Ancestors Serving as Islamic Prophets. This Divergence in Perspectives Highlights the Diversity of Thought Within Religious Circles, But Both Islamic and Hindu Scholars Share a Commitment to Upholding the Sanctity and Integrity of Their Faiths. Main Points: 1. Sadaqat Bilal: Explores religious parallels between Prophet Nooh (peace be upon him) in the Quran and Manu in Hindu scriptures. 2. Asimendrakumar Dhirendrakumar Dechaudhari: Doubts the existence of Islamic prophets in India. 3. Shakir Mumtaz: No textual confirmation of the number of prophets in India. 4. Feroze Mulani: Discusses the descent of Adam in Sri Lanka and the belief that Hawwa descended in Saudi Arabia before traveling through India. 5. Hassan Iqbal: Explores the intricate layers of the message of Islam and its recipients throughout history. 6. Imam Ahmad Raza, also known as Aala Hazrat, opposes positing potential prophets based on probabilities and improbabilities, stating that reliable evidence is necessary for obtaining sure knowledge about identification of Prophets, and the available information about Prophets sent to India is based on merely illusion and speculation. ------ There was a lively and engaging discussion on Quora surrounding the intriguing question: "Who were the prophets sent to India according to Islam?" The platform saw a diverse array of respondents partaking in this dialogue, each contributing unique perspectives and insights to enrich the conversation. As I delve into summarizing the key points and varied opinions expressed during this discourse, it is my aim to study more about the subject through the esteemed readers of the New Age Islam website. Respondent Sadaqat Bilal, in an intriguing exploration of religious parallels, delves into the comparison between figures in Islamic and Hindu scriptures. Upon studying various texts, Sadaqat came across a striking similarity between the story of Prophet Nooh (Noah) in the Quran and a character named Manu in Hindu scriptures, particularly the Upanishads. Both figures are associated with the construction of a great ship as a divine command for the survival of humanity amidst a cataclysmic event. The narrative of the world's destruction and Manu's companions, reminiscent of Nooh and his family in the Quran, further piqued Sadaqat's curiosity about the potential connections between these ancient accounts. As Sadaqat contemplates the deeper implications of these similarities, the mention of Manu Smriti, an ancient Hindu text, sparks interest in a potential source for uncovering more hidden truths. Delving into comparative religious studies, Sadaqat remains open to exploring the rich tapestry of narratives within these diverse spiritual traditions, all the while emphasizing the depth of knowledge awaiting discovery in the Quran and the supreme wisdom of Allah. The respondent, Asimendrakumar Dhirendrakumar Dechaudhari, delves into the question of whether or not a prophet was sent to India according to Islam. His exploration leads him to conclude that if a prophet akin to Mohammed (peace be upon him) had preached Islam in India, there would exist comparable religious practices, teachings, and beliefs. However, he asserts that this is not the case, leading him to doubt the presence of Islamic prophets in India. In his analysis of the fundamental teachings of Islam, he differentiates between the role of a prophet, as a messenger who receives divine messages and establishes a religion, and that of Hindu spiritual masters who realize truth through personal experience and self-realization. He argues that while prophets initiate conversions and promote blind belief, Hindu spiritual masters, akin to scientists uncovering truth through the removal of ignorance, offer teachings that can be personally verified and experienced by individuals. By drawing distinctions between Islam and Hinduism, specifically concerning reincarnation, the concept of God, the afterlife, the law of Karma, and the treatment of differing beliefs, he asserts that the Islamic belief in the Quran's divine origin is “unfounded”, proposing it is “man-made rather than a revelation from Allah”. Furthermore, he highlights the contrasting goals of Islam, focusing on heaven, and Hinduism, seeking Moksha or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Through these comparisons, he argues against the notion of Islamic prophets being sent to India to preach Islam, citing the numerous differences in core beliefs between the two religions. His criticism makes clear that he is doubtful of Islamic teachings and prefers “the experiential, verifiable truths that Hindu spiritual teachers offer.” From his comment, it becomes evident that he lacks accurate information regarding the foundational principles of Islam. It is worth emphasizing that his belief that Prophets rejected the key teachings of their predecessors is not in line with the true nature of prophethood. Throughout history, the fundamental beliefs upheld by all Prophets have remained consistent, emphasizing the belief in the oneness of God, belief in all prophets and messengers, angels, scriptures and belief in the Resurrection and Afterlife. These core tenets, according to the Quran, have been a common thread in the divine messages brought by all the Prophets, underscoring the unity of purpose in their divine missions. It is essential to discern that while practical applications and societal rulings may have varied in response to the evolving needs of their respective communities, the essence of the faith remained unwavering across different prophetic revelations. Understanding this distinction is vital in appreciating the continuity and universality of the divine message, transcending temporal changes and contextual adaptations. Shakir Mumtaz, a participant in the discussion, shared valuable insights by stating: "There is no textual confirmation of it." However, he referenced the late Dr. Israr Ahamed, who mentioned in a profound manner that, according to Kashf, there might have been approximately 20 prophets in the historical context of the Indian sub-continent. It is important to note that this information is attributed to Dr. Israr Ahamed and remains subject to individual interpretation and belief. He says that when contemplating the number of prophets, it is often referenced that the Holy Quran explicitly mentions the names of 25 prophets. Moreover, the Quran also highlights the significance of these prophets in guiding humanity and spreading divine messages throughout history. In parallel, a Hadith report alludes to an astounding figure, stating that there have been approximately 124,000 prophets throughout human history. This staggering number serves as a reminder of the diverse and widespread nature of prophethood in different eras and regions. Ultimately, the exact count of prophets, especially in specific geographical areas like the Indian sub-continent, remains a topic that is open to interpretation and subject to a deeper exploration of religious texts and teachings. In his thoughtful comment on the subject, "Who were the prophets sent to India according to Islam?" Feroze Mulani sheds light on the perspective held by many scholars regarding the descent of Adam (peace be upon him) in Sri Lanka on the prominent peak known as Adams Peak. Additionally, he addresses the belief that Hawwa (Eve, peace be upon her) descended in the coastal region near Saudi Arabia before journeying through India to unite with Adam (peace be upon him). Noteworthy among the significant historical sites referenced is the 52-feet shrine of Sheesh (peace be upon him), the son of Hazrat Adam, which still stands near the city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, India. Furthermore, as per hadith, it is mentioned that a few Sahaba visited Kerala during the era of the esteemed Khalifa Hazrat Umar ibn e Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him). This insightful discourse by Mulani unveils a fascinating connection between the early Islamic history and the geographical landscape of the Indian subcontinent. A respondent named Hassan Iqbal contributed his thoughts concerning the same question?" In his contemplations, he delved into the intricate layers of the message of Islam and its recipients throughout history. He expounded on the Quran's engagement with different cultural and religious groups, drawing connections between their beliefs and the prophetic lineage intertwined within their histories. Reflecting on the relevance of various prophets to different nations, he pondered the significance of remembering and honouring those messengers of God. From the notable figure of Dhul-Qarnayn possibly representing Cyrus the Great to the mysterious presence of Zoroaster and the potential revival of monotheism in India, his musings traversed through ancient narratives and theological speculations. Despite the absence of direct mention in the Quran of a prophet sent specifically to the people of India, the broader concept of prophethood being universal resonated in his insights. He highlighted the importance of recognizing the diverse spiritual landscapes of different nations and how the preservation, or loss, of past prophetic legacies could influence the reception of divine messages among various cultures, exploring the nuanced dynamics of faith and collective memory. One commentator, Aminur Rahman, expressed a thought-provoking perspective within the discussion. He suggested that India may have been home to numerous prophets who were not explicitly named in Al-Quran. However, Aminur Rahman intriguingly proposed a connection between the figure of Dhul Kifl mentioned in Al-Quran (21:85, 38:48) and Siddhartha, known as the Buddha. According to his study, Siddhartha, who was born in Kapilvastu and achieved enlightenment under a Banyan Tree in Gaya, could indeed be the same individual as Dhul Kifl. Aminur Rahman delved into the linguistic nuances, explaining that the term 'DHUL-KIFLE' can be understood as 'Of KIFLE' or 'DWELLER OF KIFLE,' which relates to Kapilvastu in India. He elaborated on the translational aspect, noting the substitution of F for P due to the absence of the letter P in Arabic. This linguistic analysis led Aminur Rahman to the conclusion that Siddhartha, as the DWELLER OF KAPIL, aligns with the figure of DHUL-KIFL in Arabic. Furthermore, Aminur Rahman used passages from Paul Caurus's GOSPEL OF BUDDHA, which claimed that the Buddha predicted the arrival of Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him). Aminur Rahman discussed the possibility of a shared prophetic lineage that cuts beyond national and cultural barriers, suggesting a relationship between these great spiritual luminaries from disparate faiths. Idris Abd-Allah eloquently articulates the fundamental tenets of Islamic religion, emphasizing the profound concept that Allah, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, has unequivocally established His divine proofs by sending Messengers and revealing Scriptures. This divine guidance and mercy were not confined to a specific nation or region but were intended for all the diverse nations of the world throughout various times and places. This universal message is encapsulated in the Quranic verses that emphasize the universality of the Prophetic mission, whereby every community has been blessed with a Messenger who called them to worship the one true God and shun falsehood. Through the Quranic narratives, we are reminded of the crucial principle that the Almighty, in His ultimate justice and wisdom, does not hold accountable those whose nations did not receive the Prophetic message. The mercy and fairness of Allah are exemplified in His decree that punishment will only be administered after the clear warning of a Messenger has been conveyed. While the Quran elucidates on the stories of select Messengers, it also alludes to the existence of many more whose narratives have not been expressly mentioned. It is evident from the divine revelation that the Prophets were sent to diverse regions across the globe, underscoring the universal appeal and timeless relevance of the Prophetic mission, which transcends geographical boundaries and resonates with all peoples irrespective of their origin or background. Some of the Quranic verses he quoted are as follows: “Verily! We have sent you with the truth, a bearer of glad tidings, and a warner. And there never was a nation but a warner had passed among them.” [Faatir 35:24] “And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghoot (all false deities, etc. i.e. do not worship Taghoot besides Allah)” [an-Nahl 16:36] “And We never punish until We have sent a Messenger (to give warning)” [al-Isra’ 17:15] “This is because your Lord would not destroy the (populations of) towns for their wrongdoing (i.e. associating others in worship along with Allah) while their people were unaware (so the Messengers were sent)” [al-An ‘am 6:131] “And Messengers We have mentioned to you before, and Messengers We have not mentioned to you” [an-Nisa’ 4:164] In closing, he states, “Therefore, the misconception that the Prophets were exclusively sent to a particular region is invalid; indeed, Allah dispatched Messengers to every corner of the globe, emphasizing His universal message of guidance and mercy upon all humanity.” According to Moin Khan, the knowledge of the prophets is a mysterious realm known only to God in the present time. In the Quran, a total of 25 prophets are specifically identified, yet historical records suggest a staggering figure of 124,000 Prophets from the time of Hazrat Adam, the father of humanity, to the final messenger, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon them). Despite this vast number, the exact count of prophets remains elusive to us. Notably, none of the 25 prophets mentioned in the Quran are associated with India, leading us to ponder the unknown history of prophets in that region. Khan hints at a potential connection between Hinduism and Islam, teasing the existence of threads that intertwine the two faiths. All the above opinions, which express a variety of perspectives, can be accessed in their original form by following the link: https://www.quora.com/Who-was-the-prophet-sent-to-India-according-to-Islam After carefully examining the myriad opinions and thoughts presented above, it becomes apparent that these ideas are not exclusive to our current era. Throughout history, numerous scholars have put forth similar notions, suggesting that the question of which Prophet was sent to India has long been a subject of contemplation. It can be surmised that the discourse surrounding this topic primarily hinges on speculative arguments rather than concrete, incontrovertible evidence. Scholars proficient in comparative religions, when referred to as 'experts', encompass not only those illustrious individuals who have completed a PhD in the field from prestigious global institutions, but more importantly, experts who are recognized as knowledgeable and highly credible in both Islam and faith. These esteemed individuals collectively concede, based on teachings from the Qur'an and Sunnah, that Allah has indeed dispatched a Messenger to every community. Consequently, the logical inference drawn is that it is plausible for Prophets to have been sent to India as well. Nevertheless, this speculation does not impose upon us the obligation of identifying the specific Islamic Messenger or Prophet appointed to India. Imam Ahmad Raza known as Aala Hazrat comprehensively argues that if there is no essential need for such identification, why should we engage in conjecture or guesswork by positing potential messengers or prophets for the region? There is no logical reason for us to navigate the uncertainties of the Prophet's identity purely on the basis of probabilities and improbabilities. Islamic scholars and Ulama emphasize the fundamental principle that our faith is securely grounded when we declare our belief in Allah and in all His messengers. In a notable instance, an Islamic scholar refers to the importance of harboring good opinions towards Hindu dignitaries and figures, highlighting the necessity of maintaining good interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, the scholars and Ulama also point out the lack of concrete evidence to conclusively identify any specific historical Hindu figure as a prophet in Islam. This assertion is supported by the idea that discussions which veer into conjecture and abstraction regarding the status of individuals as prophets are not sanctioned as valid arguments in the context of Islam. For centuries, esteemed and reliable scholars in the realm of Islam have held steadfast to these beliefs, deeply rooted in their traditions and teachings. Similarly, within the community of Hindu scholars, there are distinguished individuals who adamantly oppose the notion that their ancestors may have served as Islamic prophets. This divergence in perspectives underscores the rich diversity of thought within religious circles, where contrasting viewpoints contribute to the ongoing discourse and examination of spiritual practices. Despite these differing interpretations, both Islamic and Hindu scholars share a commitment to upholding the sanctity and integrity of their respective faiths, guided by a deep reverence for the teachings passed down through generations. Conclusion When reflecting on the question of which prophets were sent to India, it becomes evident that the answer lies within the realm of speculation rather than certainty. The Quran, in its wisdom, conveys the message that a messenger was indeed sent to every nation, emphasizing the universal reach of Allah's guidance. The specific identity of the prophet entrusted with spreading the divine message in India remains a mystery, open to interpretations and possibilities. Scholars and intellectuals have offered conjectures, suggesting some renowned figures as potential candidates. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these assertions are based on likelihood rather than concrete evidence. The discussion surrounding this topic highlights the intricate balance between faith, history, and the unknown, showcasing the diversity of interpretations within Islamic scholarship. It reminds us of the profound depth of divine wisdom and the multifaceted nature of prophethood, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural distinctions. Ultimately, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in matters of faith necessitates a nuanced approach that embraces both the certainty of revealed truths and the humility to acknowledge the limitations of human knowledge. Allah Almighty says in the Quran: “And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], "Worship Allah and avoid Taghut." And among them were those whom Allah guided, and among them were those upon whom error was [deservedly] decreed. So proceed through the earth and observe how was the end of the deniers.” [16:36]. ------ A regular Columnist with NewAgeIslam.com, Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi Dehlvi is a Classical Islamic scholar with a rich Sufi Madrasa background and expertise in English-Arabic-Urdu translation. Throughout his career, he has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of Islamic scholarship, consistently contributing valuable insights and analysis on a wide range of crucial topics. Through his regular writings, he has delved into multifaceted subjects, including but not limited to deradicalisation strategies, the promotion of moderation within Islamic teachings, counter-terrorism efforts, and the vital mission of combating Islamophobia. Moreover, he extensively addresses the urgent need to challenge radical ideologies through well-reasoned arguments and scholarly discourse. Beyond these critical issues, his work also encompasses in-depth discussions on human rights principles, the significance of safeguarding religious rights, and the profound exploration of Islamic mysticism. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/prophets-india-according-quranic-verses/d/132908 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism