Munshi Abdur Rahman (رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ)
Munshi Abdur Rahman (رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ) was a distinguished Islamic scholar, educator, and community reformer whose life was devoted to humanity, education, justice, and moral leadership. He was revered across the northeastern region of Bengal, especially in Zakiganj Upazila of Sylhet District, and was respectfully known as “Munshi”: a title associated with deep scholarship, linguistic mastery, and ethical integrity.
He served as a lifelong Mu’allim, guiding generations in Qur’an, Hadith, Fiqh, Arabic language, and moral conduct. His influence extended beyond religious teaching into the strengthening of justice, social harmony, and care for those in need. From Zakiganj on the north bank of the Kushiyara River, his students went on to become scholars, teachers, and community leaders.
Among his notable students was Furkan Ali Munshi, and he was also recognised by the world renowned scholar Allama Abdul Latif Choudhury Fultali (رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ), who acknowledged him by the honourable title of Munshi: recognition reserved for scholars of exceptional calibre.
His sons (all scholars and educators):
- Late Qari Sazzad Ali
- Late Qari Mohammed Abdul Jabbar
- Late Hafiz Abdus Sattar
- Late Qari Abdul Bari
- Late Maulana Hussain Ahmed
- Late Maulana Mohammed Abdul Jalil
Scholarly lineage (grandsons):
- Late Maulana Mohammed Najmul Islam: Muhaddith, Subhanighat Madrasa
- Maulana Abdus Salam: Principal, Gazir Mukam Madrasa
- Oddhapok Maulana Hafiz Abul Kalam: Associate Professor, Badeshor Alia Madrasa
He passed away having spent his final breath in the service of faith, education, and humanity, leaving a legacy of righteousness, knowledge, and compassion that continues to illuminate communities today.
