– Dr. Khan Yasir
No mortal being can escape the clutches of death, but there are some whose strength of character and exemplary services render them immortal. Zainul Abideen Mansoorie was such a man of exceptional intellect and upright character. His conviction towards Islam and spreading its message of peace and salvation was exemplary. His unwavering commitment towards the Islamic movement was truly inspiring. All who had the privilege of knowing him not only benefited from his insightful observations but also from the depth of spirituality that guided his actions and interactions throughout his life.
Zainul Abideen Mansoorie embodied passion and dedication in every sinew of his being. A relentless champion of Islam, he possessed a rare gift – the ability to articulate the essence of Islam with such eloquence and lucidity that it struck a chord with all who listened. In an era of cassettes and later CDs, serving as Assistant Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, he exerted himself for creating content aimed at introducing Islam, dispelling misconceptions, and combating social evils. His commitment was unyielding, his focus laser-sharp, ensuring that every endeavour he undertook served the greater good. His life was a testament to the power of resilience and the tireless pursuit of perfection. He chiselled his personality and honed his capabilities by ruthlessly pushing the limits. It was a result of this hard work that he was able to change lives through his inspirational speeches and simple-yet-influential prose not only in Urdu, but also in chaste Hindi and unblemished English. His academic works, particularly Islam: Ghalatfehmiyon aur Aitrazaat ka Izaala in Urdu, which dispels misconceptions about Islam, and Jesus and Mary in the Holy Quran, elucidating the Islamic perspective on Jesus and Mary, are noteworthy. He penned various articles for Radiance Viewsweekly as well.
In around 2008, when we were quite young, we approached him for a pamphlet that explains Islam at a glance without the barrage of flowery texts. At first, we were disappointed upon being told that there was no such pamphlet available. However, our initial frustration quickly transformed into joy upon his offer to compose one. And then we were truly mesmerized by the ease with which he composed the pamphlet “Islam Simplified” in one sitting. It was a testament not only to his capability but also to his humility.
When we reminisce about Zainul Abideen Mansoorie, it’s impossible not to recall his courage, integrity, and steadfast commitment to the truth. It seemed that the Hadith regarding speaking truth to the powers-that-be became a mantra that reverberated through every fibre of his being. He recognized the indispensable role of constructive criticism in ushering forth positive change even within the Islamic movement. Although, it must be added that his criticisms were positive and there was not an iota of negativity and hopelessness in his whole being. We can learn from him that critique is vital but it should be constructive, directed towards reform, and devoid of despondency, bitterness and pride.
I observed that Mansoorie sb, despite grappling with health issues, would come to masjid for daily prayers and weekly programs. When this became challenging due to advancing age and declining health, he made it a point to come to the masjid on Fridays and ensured his participation in at least monthly meetings of Jamaat. His deep insights, respect for organizational discipline, attentive listening, active participation, and witty one-liners enlivened every program and meeting that he attended.
On 10th May 2024, he breathed his last. However, his enduring legacy lives on not only in the hearts of all who were privileged to bask in his light but also through his profound writings, insightful videos, steadfast resolve and firm commitment to the Tehreek-e-Islami. May Allah forgive and reward him with the highest status in Jannah, and grant us the ability to follow in his noble footsteps and carry forward his legacy of representing Islam in truest sense of the term.
