An insightful reflection on Maulana Wahiduddin Khan’s masterpiece

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1925-2021) was not only a distinguished Islamic scholar but also a visionary thinker who dedicated much of his life to presenting Islamic teachings in accordance with the demands of the modern era. His intellectual prowess and spiritual insight have earned him international respect and admiration. Maulana Khan’s persona was marked by simplicity, humility, and a profound ocean of knowledge. His writings are characterized by their simplicity and clarity, making them accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. They impact readers not only intellectually but also spiritually.
During his lifetime, MaulanaWahiduddin Khan authored over 200 books, including “Islam: The Creator’s Purpose for Mankind,” “The Challenge of Modern Knowledge,” and “Islam and Contemporary Issues.” His works are renowned for presenting Islamic teachings in a straightforward and comprehensible manner, ensuring they are beneficial for readers of all ages. Until his final days, Maulana Khan remained actively involved in the fields of education, training, and dawah (inviting others to Islam). His contributions have been recognized with numerous international accolades, including the prestigious King Faisal International Prize.
The Book “Journey to the Hereafter”
MaulanaWahiduddin Khan’s book, “Journey to the Hereafter,” is a profound treatise that delves deeply into the theme of preparing for the afterlife. This book compels the reader to contemplate the preparation for the hereafter and underscores the spiritual significance of religion. Maulana has elucidated the principles and practical points of preparing for the afterlife in the light of the Quran and Sunnah. This book serves not only as a source of religious guidance but also as an intellectual and spiritual journey that aids the reader in understanding the purpose of life.
The Reality of the Hereafter
The book commences with an exposition of the reality of the hereafter. Maulana Khan has made it clear that worldly life is temporary, while the life hereafter is eternal. In the light of the Quran and Sunnah, Maulana has elucidated that the ultimate destination of mankind is the hereafter, and worldly life is a test in which success necessitates preparation for the afterlife. By citing various Quranic verses and hadiths, Maulana has detailed the reality of the hereafter. He has emphasized that the journey to the hereafter is a genuine and unforgettable journey for which we must prepare from now on.
Principles of Preparing for the Hereafter
In his book, MaulanaWahiduddin Khan has outlined the fundamental principles of preparing for the hereafter. These principles include faith, righteous deeds, and adherence to ethics. Maulana has stressed that the strength of faith and the adherence to righteous deeds are the guarantees of success in the hereafter. He has clarified that without faith, a person’s life is purposeless, and without righteous deeds, faith remains incomplete. Maulana has articulated these principles in a simple manner so that the reader can easily understand and adopt them in their life.
The Relationship Between Worldly Life and the Hereafter
Maulana has shed light on the relationship between worldly life and the hereafter. He has explained how worldly life can be utilized for success in the hereafter. Maulana has illustrated how to endure worldly hardships and trials with patience and gratitude and how to attain their reward in the hereafter. By referencing various Quranic verses and hadiths, Maulana has clarified that worldly life is a test, and we should always prioritize the pleasure of Allah. He has elucidated that the trials and tribulations of worldly life are, in fact, tests of our faith, and we should face them with patience and gratitude.
The Importance of Faith
MaulanaWahiduddin Khan has emphasized the importance of faith. He has explained that the strength of faith is what sets a person on the path to success in the hereafter. Maulana has clarified that faith is not just about believing in Allah but also about adhering to righteous deeds and ethics. By citing various examples and incidents, Maulana has shown how the strength of faith can transform a person’s life and lead them towards success in the hereafter.
The Necessity of Righteous Deeds
Maulana has also highlighted the importance of righteous deeds. He has explained that righteous deeds are the guarantee of success in the hereafter. Maulana has clarified that righteous deeds are not limited to acts of worship but include every action done for the sake of Allah. By referencing various Quranic verses and hadiths, Maulana has made it clear that adherence to righteous deeds is the key to success in the hereafter. He has also shown that following righteous deeds not only brings peace and contentment in one’s life but also has positive effects in the hereafter.
Following Ethical Principles
MaulanaWahiduddin Khan has stressed the need to follow ethical principles. He has explained that adhering to ethical principles is what makes a person successful in worldly life and in the hereafter. Maulana has clarified that following ethical principles not only helps a person build better relationships with others but also gains the pleasure of Allah. By citing various examples and incidents, Maulana has demonstrated how adherence to ethical principles can transform a person’s life and lead them towards success in the hereafter.
Practical Points for Preparing for the Hereafter
In his book, MaulanaWahiduddin Khan has also included practical points for preparing for the hereafter. The purpose of these points is to bring positive changes in the reader’s life. Maulana has clarified how a person can utilize their daily life for success in the hereafter. By citing various examples and incidents, Maulana has demonstrated how the practical points for preparing for the hereafter can bring positive changes in a person’s life and lead them towards success in the hereafter.
The Importance of Patience and Gratitude
Maulana has emphasized the importance of patience and gratitude. He has explained that enduring worldly hardships and trials with patience and gratitude is essential for success in the hereafter. Maulana has clarified that the habits of patience and gratitude bring a person closer to Allah and grant them rewards in the hereafter. By citing various examples and incidents, Maulana has demonstrated how the importance of patience and gratitude can transform a person’s life and lead them towards success in the hereafter.
Caution in Worldly Matters
MaulanaWahiduddin Khan has also stressed the need for caution in worldly matters. He has explained that a person should be careful in their worldly dealings to achieve success in the hereafter. Maulana has clarified that being cautious in worldly matters is also a sign of faith. By citing various examples and incidents, Maulana has demonstrated how the need for caution in worldly matters can transform a person’s life and lead them towards success in the hereafter.
The Importance of the Book
MaulanaWahiduddin Khan’s book “Journey to the Hereafter” is a significant treatise that sheds light on the fundamental purpose of human life and the preparation for the hereafter. This book directs the reader towards understanding the purpose of life and preparing for the hereafter. Maulana has discussed important topics in a very simple and understandable manner, making this book beneficial for readers of all ages. This book highlights the spiritual significance of religion and encourages the reader to follow Islamic teachings in practical life.
Conclusion
“Journey to the Hereafter” is an insightful treatise by MaulanaWahiduddin Khan that guides a person in preparing for the hereafter alongside their worldly life. This book is essential for anyone who wants to understand the purpose of their life and achieve success in the hereafter. Remembering Maulana’s personality and his services, and following his teachings, are extremely important in today’s era.
In light of MaulanaWahiduddin Khan’s book, we should all review our lives and set out on the path of preparing for the hereafter. This book helps us understand the spiritual importance of religion and motivates us to follow Islamic teachings in our practical lives.

Faheem ul Islam, MA in International Politics at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), can be reached at [email protected]

Faheem ul Islam