An Analysis of Criticism on Wahi e Khafī and Ilhām (Specific study of the objections of Ghulam Ahmed Parvez)

Abstract

This study examines Ghulam Ahmad Parwez's critique of the concept of "Wahi Khafi" and presents the scholarly opinions of other critics of Sufism. The analysis aims to reach a definitive understanding through a detailed examination. According to Parwez, the cessation of prophethood marked the end of all forms of revelation and inspiration. He contends that the belief in "Wahi Khafi" is fabricated and borrowed from Jewish traditions, asserting that there is no mention of such types of revelation in the early Islamic period and that the concept forms the basis of Sufism. Parwez articulates his views in "The Reality of Sufism," describing the development of the concept and attributing its formulation to Imam Shafi'i.

Furthermore, the study reviews the perspectives of other scholars such as Syed Maududi, Dr. Israr Ahmad, and Javed Ahmad Ghamidi on "Wahi Khafi," who generally support the concept. It explores the definitions and instances of revelation from Quranic and Hadith sources, examining the linguistic and terminological meanings of "Wahi," and how it applies in religious contexts.