[Lahore,Pakistan] Sultan-ul-Sabireen Sultan Pir Mohammad Abdul Ghafoor Shah Hashmi Qureshi was a renowned Sufi saint, spiritual guide, and poet of the 19th century. Born on July 9, 1827, in Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan (then India), he was destined for spiritual greatness.
Early Life and Genealogy
Abdul Ghafoor Shah’s genealogy traces back to the Holy Prophet’s uncle, Hamzah ibn Abdul Muttalib, in twenty-six steps. His father, Pir Fazal Shah, was a disciple of Khawaja Suleman Taunsvi, a great saint of the Chishtia order. Khawaja Suleman Taunsvi had foretold the birth of Abdul Ghafoor Shah, declaring him a Wali-e-Kamil (Perfect Friend of Allah).
Spiritual Journey
From childhood, Abdul Ghafoor Shah was drawn to religion, acquiring extensive religious education by age 18. However, his soul yearned for more. At 25, he had a dream in which the Holy Prophet, Sultan ul Faqr 5th Sultan Bahoo, and Sultan ul Faqr 3rd Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani guided him to meet Sayyid Abdullah Shah in Ahmadpur East.
Guidance and Legacy
Abdul Ghafoor Shah pledged allegiance to Sayyid Abdullah Shah, serving him for nine years and reaching the extremities of Faqr. Before his death in 1860, Sayyid Abdullah Shah entrusted Abdul Ghafoor Shah with the Divine Trust of Faqr. Abdul Ghafoor Shah then migrated to Mud Sharif, guiding thousands of seekers on the Divine path and blessing them with Faqr and invocation of Ism-e-Allah Zaat for fifty years.
Titles and Poetry
The Holy Prophet titled him ‘Sultan ul Sabireen’ for his remarkable patience. His mystic poetry, compiled by his son Pir Abdul Haq, expresses Divine realities and love for his spiritual guide, Sayyid Abdullah Shah.
Spiritual Successor
Abdul Ghafoor Shah entrusted the treasure of Faqr to Shahbaz e Arifan Sultan Pir Sayyid Mohammad Bahadur Ali Shah, ensuring the continuation of his spiritual legacy.
Death and Shrine
Abdul Ghafoor Shah passed away on February 21, 1910 (10 Safar, 1328 Hijri). His shrine, located in village Mud Sharif, District Jhang, Pakistan, attracts devotees who celebrate his death anniversary annually on the 9th and 10th of Safar.
Sultan-ul-Sabireen Sultan Pir Mohammad Abdul Ghafoor Shah Hashmi Qureshi’s life and teachings embody the essence of Sufism, guiding seekers on the path of love, patience, and spiritual growth. His legacy continues to inspire and transform lives, cementing his place as a revered Sufi saint in the annals of history.