The Marital Life of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti: A Unique Journey in Sufism

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, the revered Sufi saint, is known for his deep spirituality and unwavering devotion to God. It’s intriguing to note that a saint of his caliber, who renounced worldly pleasures early in life, embraced marriage not once but twice. This significant aspect of his life was not a personal pursuit but a matter of spiritual commandment under Islamic Shariah. His marriages were ordained through divine guidance and the instruction of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), highlighting the unique circumstances that shaped his personal and spiritual journey.

The First Marriage: A Divine Command

After settling in Ajmer, around 590 AH (1193 AD), Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti received a sacred directive through a ‘basharat’ (prophetic dream) from the Holy Prophet. The Prophet reminded him of the importance of marriage in Islam, stating, “O Moinuddin, you are a great teacher of our faith. Do not forsake our Sunnah (tradition),” referring to the Islamic obligation of marriage under Shariah.

Coincidentally, that same night, a devoted follower of Khwaja Sahib, Malik-a-Khitab, captured the daughter of a local Raja during a conflict. The woman embraced Islam, and following the Prophet’s command, Khwaja Sahib married her. She was given the Islamic name Bibi Ummutulla, marking the beginning of his first marital union.

The Second Marriage: A Matter of Obedience

Years later, in 620 AH (1223 AD), Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti entered his second marriage, once again following divine instructions. Syed Wajihuddin Mashhadi, the commissioner of Ajmer, sought Khwaja Sahib’s guidance concerning his daughter, Bibi Asmat, who was of marriageable age but lacked a suitable match. One night, he received a ‘basharat’ instructing him to marry his daughter to Sheikh Moinuddin.

Despite his advanced age, Khwaja Sahib accepted the marriage, acknowledging the importance of adhering to the Prophet’s command. Thus, he entered his second marriage, further solidifying his role as a model of religious adherence.

Children and Legacy

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti was blessed with four children: three sons and one daughter. It is widely accepted that his son, Khwaja Ziauddin Abu Sayeed, was born to Bibi Asmat, while his other two sons, Khwaja Fakhruddin and Khwaja Hissamuddin, and his daughter, Bibi Hafiza Jamal, were born to Bibi Ummutulla. However, some historical accounts differ on the parentage of the latter sons.

The Sons of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti

Khwaja Fakhruddin: The eldest son, Khwaja Fakhruddin, followed in his father’s footsteps as a devout Sufi. He was closely associated with Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya of Delhi, a renowned Sufi saint. Fakhruddin lived a simple life as an agriculturist in Mandal, near Ajmer, and passed away in 1265 AD. His shrine at Sarwar, located 37 miles from Ajmer, draws numerous devotees during his annual Urs (memorial) celebration.
Khwaja Hissamuddin: The second son, Khwaja Hissamuddin, remains an enigmatic figure. Historical records suggest that he disappeared at a young age, and he is believed to have attained the status of an "abdaal" (a spiritual figure responsible for maintaining the balance of the world according to Islamic belief).
Khwaja Ziauddin Abu Sayeed: The youngest son, Khwaja Ziauddin Abu Sayeed, left behind two sons, although little is known about their lives. He passed away at the age of 50 and was buried in the precincts of his father’s dargah (shrine) in Ajmer.

The Daughter: Bibi Hafiza Jamal

Khwaja Moinuddin’s only daughter, Bibi Hafiza Jamal, was a woman of profound piety. She memorized the Quran by the age of seven and was married to Sheikh Raziuddin, the son of Sultan-ul-Tarikin Hazrat Khwaja Hameed-ud-din Nagauri, another prominent Sufi figure. She was buried near her father’s shrine in Ajmer, a place of great reverence for devotees.

The Passing of a Saint: A Divine Departure

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's departure from this world on the 6th of Rajab, 633 AH (1233 AD), remains a profound mystery. He passed away at the age of 97, having lived a life dedicated to the service of God and humanity. On the night before his passing, he retired to his cell after the ‘Isha’ prayer, instructing his followers not to disturb him. Throughout the night, they heard sounds of ‘wajd’ (spiritual ecstasy) coming from his room. By morning, the sounds had ceased, and when his followers opened the door, they found that he had peacefully passed away.

The following Arabic phrase was found radiantly inscribed on his forehead: "Haaza Habib-Allah Mata Fee Hoob-Allah" (He is God’s beloved and he died in God’s love).

Legacy of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s influence transcends time, as his teachings of love, humility, and devotion continue to inspire millions. His dargah in Ajmer remains a beacon of spirituality, attracting people from all walks of life, irrespective of religion or creed. His unmatched piety, compassion for humanity, and unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Islam have solidified his place as one of the greatest Sufi saints in history.

In the 800 years since his passing, Khwaja Moinuddin’s teachings have touched countless hearts, and his legacy continues to thrive as an eternal testament to the power of love, faith, and divine guidance.

Ajmer Sharif Khwaja