Khawaja Muḥammad Masud Bukhari (RA)

Name and Titles

Khwaja Muḥammad Masud Bukhari (RA)

Dates and Places

Born 1040 AH / 1630 CE in Bukhara (Uzbekistan); died 1115 AH / 1703 CE at Kabul, Afghanistan

Order and Lineage

Saint of the Naqshbandiyya Mujaddidiyya branch; descendant of Bahauddin Naqshband (RA)

Biography

Khawaja Muḥammad Masud Bukhari (RA) was one of the most influential Sufi teachers of Central and South Asia in the late 17th century. After completing his studies in Bukhara, he received khilafat from Khawaja Khurd (RA), a prominent Naqshbandi successor of Imam Rabbani Aḥmad Sirhindi (RA).

He later settled in Kabul, where he founded a vast khanqah that became the main Naqshbandi centre for students from India and Kashmir. His reputation as a scholar, poet, and reformer attracted disciples from across the subcontinent – among them Sheikh Abdul Karim Trali (RA) of Kashmir.

Teachings and Themes

Strict adherence to Sharia and Sunnah as the foundation of spiritual life
Emphasis on internal silence and constant remembrance of God (ḥuẓur-i qalb)
Rejection of worldly gain and ostentation in religion
Integration of teaching, meditation, and public service

Legacy and Influence

Khawaja Muḥammad Masud Bukhari (RA) trained hundreds of disciples who spread Naqshbandi teachings throughout Central and South Asia. His Kashmiri students, notably Sheikh Abdul Karim Trali (RA), carried forward his influence in the Valley, linking Kashmir spiritually to the broader Naqshbandiyya Mujaddidiyya movement.

Legends and Oral Tradition

Popular Naqshbandi traditions state that a heavenly light surrounded his grave for 40 days after burial – a recurring motif in regional hagiographies expressing sanctity and divine favour.