Imam ul Asr , Syed Abul A'la Maududi (RA): 

A Revolutionary Thinker and Reformer.

In the 20th century, among the personalities who profoundly influenced Islamic thought, politics, and society, the name of Syed Abul A'la Maududi (RA) stands out prominently. He was not only a great thinker, writer, exegete, and activist but also one of the foremost figures who presented a modern interpretation of Islam.

 His writings sparked a new wave of Islamic awakening, not just in the Indian subcontinent but across the world, laying the foundation of a comprehensive Islamic movement that continues to thrive in over 100 countries today.

Early Life and Educational Background

Syed Maududi was born on September 25, 1903, in OrangAbad,Hyderabad Deccan into a scholarly and religious family. Instead of receiving a formal education in a traditional madrasa, he pursued self-education and research, mastering Islamic sciences, philosophy, Western thoughts, and contemporary ideologies.

His exceptional abilities became evident when, at the mere age of 11, he translated the famous Egyptian writer Qasim Amin’s book, Al-Mar'ah Al-Jadidah, from Arabic to Urdu. 

By the age of 15, he was fluent in Arabic and English.

 At just 24 years old, he authored his renowned book, "Al-Jihad fi al-Islam" (Jihad in Islam), which created a stir in both Eastern and Western intellectual circles.

Journalistic Contributions and Intellectual Struggles

Syed Maududi began his reformative and intellectual journey through journalism. 

He was associated with newspapers like Taj, Muslim, and Al-Jam'iyyat, but his true recognition came from launching "Tarjuman al-Qur'an," a magazine that became the center of his intellectual and ideological activities. Through it, he presented Islamic teachings in a modern style and paved the way for Islamic revival.

The Establishment of Jamaat-e-Islami and Islamic Movement

In 1941, Syed Maududi founded Jamaat-e-Islami, aiming to implement Islam as a comprehensive system of life. It emerged as a reformist, intellectual, and revolutionary movement, promoting Islamic awareness not only in the subcontinent but also globally.

His writings and speeches transformed the lives of millions. A renowned Syrian scholar called him "Ghazali of the present period," a Somali scholar referred to him as "Sheikh Kabir," and a great Egyptian thinker honored him with the title "Al-Muslim Al-Azeem" (The Great Muslim).

Tafheem-ul-Qur'an: A Modern Interpretation of the Qur'an

One of Syed Maududi’s greatest scholarly contributions is "Tafheem-ul-Qur'an," a six-volume commentary that appeals to the modern mind. It explains Qur'anic teachings using historical, scientific, and logical arguments. This exegesis has been translated into multiple languages, benefiting millions worldwide.

Global Recognition and Influence

Syed Maududi’s intellectual contributions were recognized internationally, with even Western scholars researching his thoughts. The famous Western writer Karen Armstrong mentioned in her book "Battle for God":

> "The ongoing global intellectual struggle owes much to Maududi."

Similarly, renowned Canadian orientalist Wilfred Cantwell Smith stated:

> "He was the greatest modern thinker of Islam."

Maududi and Margaret Marcus

Syed Maududi’s message influenced Margaret Marcus, an American Jewish girl who converted to Islam and became known as Maryam Jameelah. She moved to Pakistan and married Yusuf Khan, a Jamaat-e-Islami member. Maryam Jameelah wrote several influential books on Islamic thought, which remain significant resources for introducing Islam to the Western world.

Trials, Imprisonment, and Unwavering Perseverance

Syed Maududi faced numerous trials in his life. In 1953, he was sentenced to death for his struggle against Qadianism, but due to immense public pressure, the sentence was overturned. Besides this, he was imprisoned multiple times, yet each time, he emerged with even greater determination and energy to continue his mission.

Literary Legacy: Over 150 Books.

The greatest testament to his intellectual contributions is his 150+ books, translated into various languages. Some of his major works include:

*Qur'an and Tafsir:

*Tafheem-ul-Qur'an (6 Volumes)

*Tafheemaat

*Mas'ala Jabr o Qadr

*Tajdid wa Ihya-e-Deen

*Islamic Beliefs and Ideologies:

*Islamic Worship: A Critical Analysis

*Rasa'il wa Mas'ail (4 Volumes)

*The Concept of Islamic Civilization and Political System

*Islamic State and Politics:

*Islamic State

*Khilafat wa Mulookiyat (Caliphate and Kingship)

*Siyasi Kashmakash (The Political Struggle) (3 Volumes)

*Islamic Economy and Society:

*Riba (Interest)

*Purdah (Veil)

*Huqooq al-Zawjain (Rights of Spouses)

*Islamic System of Life and Its Basic Concepts

Other Famous Books:

*Al-Jihad fi al-Islam

*Four Basic Qur'anic Terms

*The Reality of Zakat

*Education System

*Islam and Modern Mind's Doubts

These books reflect his intellectual depth, research-oriented approach, and vision for an Islamic revival movement.

Demise and Everlasting Legacy

Syed Maududi passed away on September 22, 1979, and was buried (Achhra) near by Lahore .

His intellectual, ideological, and reformist legacy remains alive. His writings—especially Tafheem-ul-Qur'an, Khilafat wa Mulookiyat, Islamic State, Riba, and Al-Jihad fi al-Islam—continue to guide millions.

Conclusion: 

A Thinker Who Will Live for Centuries.

Syed Maududi was not merely a scholar or thinker but an architect of Islamic revival.

He reintroduced the true essence of Islam that had been confined to mosques and pulpits for centuries. 

His thoughts, writings, and movement remain a beacon of light for Muslims worldwide, guiding not just this generation but future centuries as well.