Mohd Yousuf Khaki: A Beacon of Knowledge and Wisdom

He embodied the values of compassion, wisdom, and dedication, leaving behind a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and faith

Mohd Yousuf Khaki, affectionately known as Khaki Sahab, was a luminary in the realm of Islamic education, jurisprudence, and community service. Hailing from Lashtyal, Kalaroose, in the frontier district of Kupwara, he left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals, earning him the reverence and admiration of his students, peers, and the community at large.
Born into a family of modest means, Mohd Yousuf Khaki’s thirst for knowledge and unwavering dedication to Islamic studies drove him to pursue a rigorous academic path. He was fortunate to have studied under the tutelage of the venerable Ahmad Ali Lahori (RA), a distinguished Islamic scholar from Lahore, Pakistan. This mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping Khaki Sahab’s intellectual and spiritual trajectory.
Mohd Yousuf Khaki’s teaching career spanned several decades, during which he taught Arabic, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), and Tafseer of the Quran. His pedagogical approach was characterized by clarity, compassion, and a deep understanding of the subject matter. He had a unique ability to distill complex concepts into accessible and engaging lessons, making him a beloved teacher among his students.
Khaki Sahab’s impact extended beyond his immediate students. He was a teacher of teachers, having mentored numerous individuals who went on to become prominent Islamic scholars, educators, and community leaders in their own right. His influence is evident in the many lives he touched, as his students continue to propagate the knowledge and values he instilled in them.
Mohd Yousuf Khaki was an authority on Islamic jurisprudence, particularly in the Hanafi school of thought. His expertise in Fiqh and his ability to provide nuanced guidance on intricate matters earned him widespread respect. He was often sought out for counsel on personal, social, and religious issues, demonstrating his status as a trusted community leader.
With a heavy heart, I mourn the loss of my revered teacher, who guided me in the recitation and understanding of the Holy Quran for 15 transformative years, from the age of 13 to 28. His impact on my life and the lives of countless others is immeasurable. His dedication, patience, and kindness inspired a love for the Quran and a deeper connection with our faith.
On the 7th of August 2024, we bid a final farewell as we completed his funeral ceremony, surrounded by a community that loved and respected him dearly. The entire area feels the absence of his towering personality, whose presence was a blessing to all who knew him. The void left by his departure is immense and cannot be filled.
His legacy, however, will live on through the countless lives he touched, including mine. I will always cherish the memories of his teachings, wisdom, and compassion. Khaki Sahib’s passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him and benefited from his wisdom. His legacy, however, continues to inspire and guide future generations. As a teacher, scholar, and mentor, he embodied the values of compassion, wisdom, and dedication, leaving behind a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and faith.
May his soul rest in peace, and may Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. His memory will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence in our faith, character, and actions. As the poet of the East, Dr. Allama Iqbal, has said:
For a thousand years, the Narcissus has been lamenting its blindness
With great difficulty, one is born with true vision in the garden
The writer works in the Revenue Department, Jammu & Kashmir
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Nazeer Ahmad Shah