Complete Biography of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (R.A.)

Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishti (R.A.) was one of the most prominent Sufi saints of the Indian subcontinent. He is honored worldwide as the propagator of the Chishti Sufi order and a great servant of humanity.

Birth and Early Life

He was born in 1141 AD (536 AH) in Sanjar, a city in the Sistan province of Iran. His father’s name was Khwaja Ghayasuddin and his mother’s name was Ummul Wara. He lost both his parents at an early age. The property he inherited was distributed among the poor and needy, and he dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge.

Education and Spiritual Training

In his youth, he studied at renowned centers of learning in Bukhara and Samarkand, gaining deep knowledge in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), exegesis (tafsir), hadith, and Sufism (tasawwuf). He later became a disciple of the famous Sufi saint Khwaja Usman Harwani (R.A.) in Bukhara, from whom he received rigorous spiritual training. After many years of devotion, his spiritual guide granted him the Khilafah (spiritual succession) and assigned him the mission of spreading Islam in India.

Migration and Arrival in Ajmer

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (R.A.) traveled through many regions spreading the message of peace and spirituality—visiting Makkah, Madinah, Baghdad, Harwan, Nishapur, among others. Eventually, he arrived in Delhi and then in Ajmer. At that time, Ajmer was ruled by Raja Prithviraj Chauhan and was a major center of disbelief and polytheism. However, due to Khwaja Sahib’s exemplary character, love, tolerance, and miraculous powers, thousands were attracted to him and embraced Islam.

Missionary Work and Service to Humanity

Throughout his life, he served humanity tirelessly. His door was open to all—rich or poor, Hindu or Muslim. He used to say:

"Feeding the hungry is the best form of worship."

He established schools (maktabs), imparted spiritual education, and provided shelter to the destitute. His life remains a shining example of humility, kindness, compassion, and selflessness.

Passing Away

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (R.A.) passed away on the 6th of Rajab, 1236 AD (633 AH) in Ajmer Sharif. His death anniversary, known as "Urs Sharif," is celebrated annually, drawing millions from around the world to pay tribute to him.

Some Notable Sayings

"He who loves mankind, loves God."

"Forgiveness is one of God's greatest attributes; therefore, one should forgive others' mistakes."

"Worship is incomplete if you cause pain to others."