About RTA
The Rifai Thareeq Association of Sri Lanka was founded in 1877 by His Eminence Seyyid Muhammed Yoosuf Rifai Thangal, at the Mohideen Mosque, Siripina Lane (now known as Rifai Thangal Lane), Colombo 12. He was the great grand-father of our present Rifai Moulana Al-Haj Muhammed Ashique Thangal. About 10 years later, his great grand-uncle established this Thareeqa at Kapuwatte, Weligama, where subsequently our Moulana’s grand-father built a Kapuwatta Muhiyaddeen Jumma Masjid.
Our Rifai Moulana and his forefathers, since 1877, have been rendering yeoman service to thousands of Sri Lankan muslims, helping them during their times of distress and difficulties by assisting them to seek solace in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and in the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (on whom be peace and blessings). Thus, they have rendered 125 years of unbroken service to us through this Association.
Founders of Rifai Thareeq Association of Sri Lanka
Our Rifai Moulana, his father and his uncles have been torch-bearers of the Rifai Thareeq in Sri Lanka, propagating its principles for the benefit of the muslims and the future generations.
What exactly is the Rifai Thareeq? It is a Sufi path founded by a great Saint of Islam, Sulthanul Arifeen Seyid Ahamed Kabir Al-Rifai (Qaddasallaahu Sirrahul Azeez). He was a very bright star in the Islamic firmament, leading a very pious life. It was his teachings and practices aimed at securing the pleasure of Almighty God that is taught by the Rifai Order (Thareeqa) the world over.
As Marhoom Moulavi A M L M Faleel (Fazil Bhaji), former Khaleefatur Rifaiee, mentioned, “Those devotees who purified their bodies, soul and hearts and practiced the Quranic way of life until such time as the attributes of God reflect from them and ascend to loftiest height and enjoyed eternal bliss, are the favourites of God. Their life is free from all sorrows and theirs is a contented life. It is to reach this aim that Thareeqas were founded by the favourites of Allah.”
It is this task that the Rifai Thareeq Association of Sri Lanka is engaged in, under the able guidance throughout the long years by the Rifai Moulana family, who are the direct descendants of our illustrious Prophet Muhammed (on whom be peace and blessings).
Incorporated Act
In 1976, the Rifai Thareeq Association of Sri Lanka (Incorporation) Law, No. 29 of 1976, was passed by the National State Assembly. The general objects of the Association included, among other things:
- the study and promotion of Islamic culture and religion and the development of the Rifai Thareeq;
- research into the life history and activities of the Founder of the Rifai Thareeq Order, and also of Prophet Muhammed (on whom be peace and blessings), and of other leading saints;
- promotion of a spirit of fellowship among the members of the Association and the inculcation in them the spirit of service to the community and the country;
- the provision of facilities for the advancement of education of the Muslims;
- the establishment and maintenance of Muslim religious schools for the teaching of Al Qur’an and the Arabic language;
- the provision for charitable acts for the benefit of the poor Muslims; etc.