The Story of Syed Musa and His Title “Jangi Dost”

■ The Story of Syed Musa and His Title “Jangi Dost”

Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (رحمت اللہ علیہ) had a respected father, Hazrat Abu Saleh Syed Musa Jangi Dost (رحمت اللہ علیہ). His name was Syed Musa, his nickname was Abu Saleh, and his title was Jangi Dost. He was among the esteemed scholars of Jilan.

What is the Reason for the Title “Jangi Dost”:

His title “Jangi Dost” came from his pure dedication to Allah ﷻ. He was known for his self-discipline and strict adherence to Islamic practices, encouraging good deeds and stopping wrongdoing. He did not hesitate even to risk his life for this cause.

One day, while he was heading to the grand mosque, he saw some officials of the Khalifa carefully carrying barrels of wine. Upon seeing this, he became furious and broke the barrels. The officials were too intimidated by his authority to say anything. Instead, they reported him to the Khalifa, urging him to take action against Syed Musa. The Khalifa then ordered Syed Musa to come to his court.

When Syed Musa arrived, the Khalifa was angry and asked, “Who are you to destroy my officials’ work?” Syed Musa replied, “I am the one who enforces the laws of Islam, and I have done my duty.” The Khalifa then asked, “By whose authority were you appointed?” Syed Musa answered, with a commanding tone, “By the same authority under which you rule.”

This response touched the Khalifa deeply, and he sat on his knees in humility. After a moment, he asked, “What wisdom do you have in breaking those barrels?” Syed Musa replied, “Out of compassion for you and to protect you from disgrace in this world and the Hereafter.” The Khalifa was so impressed by this wise response that he offered Syed Musa the position of enforcer on his behalf.

However, Syed Musa, in a humble manner, replied, “If I am appointed by Allah ﷻ, then I have no need to be appointed by people.” From that day on, he became famously known as “Jangi Dost.”