Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman: A Balanced Historian of Indian Civilization

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 23 August 2025 Summary: Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman was a distinguished historian and intellectual who emphasized balance, tolerance, and pluralism in Indian history. His works highlighted Muslim rulers’ contributions to harmony and coexistence, countering biased narratives. He believed history should inspire unity, justice, and respect for diversity, offering guidance for India’s democratic and social values. Main Points: 1. History builds unity, harmony, and values shaping collective national identity. 2. Indian history shows tolerance, cooperation, and coexistence across diverse communities. 3. Distorted history spreads prejudice, division, and weakens democratic social values. 4. Muslim rulers promoted fairness, inclusivity, and respect for cultural diversity. 5. Historical lessons inspire policies of tolerance, justice, and peaceful governance. 6. Abdul Rahman’s legacy emphasizes pluralism, truth, and balanced historical analysis. ----- Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman ----- Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman highlighted certain aspects of Indian history that hold great importance. Before studying his ideas about history, it seems appropriate to first explain how history itself has played a fundamental role in shaping social harmony and national unity. History is not merely a record of past events; it is a living reality that influences the present and directs the future. It provides nations with a collective memory that shapes their identity, values, and aspirations. Thus, the study of history is not simply an academic exercise but a means of promoting social harmony, national unity, and mutual inclusion. Societies that understand their history with honesty and balance are more successful in maintaining peace, upholding justice, and nurturing democratic values. One of the key functions of history is to bring forward examples of tolerance, cooperation, and cultural exchange within human societies. For instance, the history of India is not only a narrative of political victories or ethnic conflicts but also a story of civilizational interactions, intellectual exchanges, and social integration. When historians emphasize this diversity of the past, they remind us that unity is possible despite differences. Such perspectives teach people that cultural diversity should not be seen as a threat but rather as a strength. In this way, history becomes a source of social harmony and provides models of coexistence that can guide societies even today. However, when history is distorted or reduced only to tales of bloodshed and division, it becomes a weapon of discord and hatred. If the focus is placed solely on conflicts while ignoring the aspects of mercy, tolerance, and cooperation, then a distorted picture of the past emerges. This not only misguides future generations but also fosters prejudice, mistrust, and division within society. Such misuse of history weakens democratic values and damages national unity. Therefore, it is the moral responsibility of historians not only to collect facts but also to present them with fairness, balance, and wisdom. History also exerts a deep influence on policymaking and social attitudes. Both rulers and citizens learn lessons from past experiences when facing contemporary challenges. If history teaches that tolerance, inclusion, and cooperation bring stability, then social policies are shaped by these very values. For example, in the past when rulers promoted interfaith harmony, respected local customs, and encouraged cultural exchange, societies became more peaceful and stable. Today, such historical experiences remind us that respect for diversity is not a modern slogan but a time-tested principle of good governance. In a broader sense, history also serves as a source of moral and intellectual inspiration. Stories of compassion, courage, and wisdom from the past encourage individuals to act with greater humanity and responsibility. When students learn that different communities worked together to build civilization, they develop empathy, open-mindedness, and a sense of civic responsibility. This dimension is essential for creating societies that are inclusive and progressive. It is therefore important to stress that history is not merely a story of the past but a dynamic resource for building national unity and social harmony. When studied with justice and balance, it highlights shared experiences, brings forward the contributions of diverse groups, and reduces prejudice. History teaches us that national unity does not mean uniformity; rather, it lies in the dignified integration of multiple traditions, cultures, and beliefs. Thus, when history is properly understood and taught, it becomes a source not of division but of unity, guiding societies toward a more just, peaceful, and harmonious future. It is in this context that we shall attempt to understand the contributions of Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman. Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman (1911–1987) was born in the village of Desna in Bihar, India. He completed his B.A. and M.A. from Patna University and further enriched his knowledge at Jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University. He emerged as a distinguished historian and intellectual of the 20th century. Throughout his life, he authored dozens of books, addressing various topics with depth and clarity. His writings are renowned for their scholarly rigor and insightful analysis. One of his central contributions lies in the study of Indian history, particularly highlighting aspects of India’s past that were often misrepresented or misunderstood by other historians or writers. Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman focused on the history and civilization of India in a manner that emphasized balance, fairness, and accuracy. He shed light on the contributions of Muslim rulers in India, especially in promoting tolerance, coexistence, and respect for diversity. His scholarship plays a crucial role in dispelling doubts and misconceptions regarding the policies and character of Muslim rulers, particularly during the Mughal era. In 1935, he joined Dar al-Musannifeen, an institution dedicated to scholarly research and historical writing. His subsequent works in history and social sciences are celebrated as a legacy of high intellectual value. One of the notable aspects of his writings is their emphasis on social harmony, cultural coexistence, and mutual respect among different communities. He believed that the essence of Indian civilization lies in its pluralism, diversity, and the peaceful coexistence of various religious and social groups. His literary works reflect a deep understanding of Indian culture, traditions, and societal values. He consistently emphasized that citizens should respect human rights, maintain harmonious relationships, and value India’s multi-faceted identity. His scholarship reminds readers that preserving cultural diversity is vital for national unity, and history must be studied in the light of context and facts rather than biased narratives or hearsay. Among his numerous contributions, his three-volume work titled: (ہندوستان کے عہد ماضی میں مسلم حکمرانوں کی رواداری) is particularly significant. These volumes highlight the policies and practices of Muslim rulers who governed India with fairness and moderation. They demonstrate that Muslim rulers upheld principles of religious tolerance, respected local customs, and actively promoted harmony between different communities. In his preface, Abdul Rahman writes: “The Mughals shed blood to establish themselves in India, as did the local population. However, once they settled, it is essential to study how they won the hearts of the people. They left no effort to gain goodwill, promoted good governance, respected local customs, maintained personal laws, involved the populace in administration, appointed capable officials, and even forged bonds through marriages. Akbar, for example, took interest in Hindu religious texts like the Vedas, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Upanishads, sought common ground between Hindus and Muslims, translated local tales into other languages, and eventually encouraged a shared linguistic culture. Muslim rulers engaged with the people, enriched the civilization, and influenced religious and intellectual life, preserving the pluralistic essence of India. Any claim that Indian civilization is exclusively Hindu betrays history.” (Vol. 2, pp. 3–4) Through these statements, it becomes evident that Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman’s works are mirrors of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage. They show that Muslim rulers historically coexisted peacefully with Hindu populations, respecting their customs, beliefs, and social structures. He highlights that historical events should be analyzed within the political, social, and economic contexts of their time, otherwise misinterpretations arise. Misrepresentation of history, he warned, could lead to societal discord and the erosion of democratic and constitutional values. He also addressed contemporary challenges and ideological manipulations aimed at Indian Muslims. In 1983, he wrote: “Some organizations seek to make Muslims prove loyalty by changing names, abandoning Arabic, adopting Hindi script, ignoring Mecca and Medina, celebrating Hindu festivals as national holidays, and restricting Muslims from attaining high positions or economic growth.” (1983, p. 2) Even decades ago, he observed that such tendencies existed, and his warnings are still relevant today. His insights underline the importance of historical awareness in preserving national unity and pluralism. By analysing history correctly, societies can distinguish truth from falsehood and avoid communal misunderstandings. Abdul Rahman also emphasized that historical sources should not only record bloodshed and conflicts but also highlight acts of compassion, tolerance, and social harmony. He wrote: “Historical sources can be used to either wound or heal. If only violence is recorded, history becomes a butcher’s account. But recording acts of compassion and kindness makes history enriching and inspiring.” (Vol. 1, p. 15) His scholarship demonstrates that history is a powerful tool to foster social cohesion and revive shared values. By studying the tolerant policies of Muslim rulers, Abdul Rahman contributed to a better understanding of India’s pluralistic society. His works continue to serve as invaluable resources for universities, research centres, and scholars seeking to explore India’s complex history. Furthermore, his research underscores the role of Indian Muslims in shaping the country’s cultural, social, and political landscape. It highlights their contributions to governance, education, and cultural integration. By documenting these historical facts, Abdul Rahman not only satisfied the curiosity of scholars but also offered guidance to those who might hold misconceptions or doubts about India’s Muslim rulers. His writings emphasize that historical analysis must rise above prejudice and bias. Understanding the past in its full context helps ensure that contemporary societal policies and attitudes are inclusive, fair, and rooted in the truth. Abdul Rahman’s works remind readers that India’s unity lies in respecting its diverse communities, promoting tolerance, and upholding democratic and humanistic values. In conclusion, Syed Sabahuddin Abdul Rahman was more than a historian; he was a visionary intellectual who combined scholarly rigor with a deep sense of social responsibility. His research on India’s history, particularly the era of Muslim rule, demonstrates how tolerance, cooperation, and cultural integration were practiced in the past. His legacy continues to guide scholars, students, and citizens in understanding India’s pluralistic heritage and fostering peace, harmony, and mutual respect among its diverse communities. In today’s world, where historical narratives are often politicized, his work serves as a reminder of the importance of truth, context, and intellectual honesty. By studying his writings, one gains insight not only into India’s past but also into principles of justice, tolerance, and coexistence that remain relevant for building a harmonious society. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/sabahuddin-rahman-historian-indian-civilization/d/136574 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism