رینالڈ نکلسن کے افکار کا تجزیاتی مطالعہ EXPLORING THE INTELLECTUAL LEGACY OF REYNOLD NICHOLSON: A CRITICAL STUDY Section Urdu Literature

Abstract

Reynold Alleyne Nicholson (1868-1945) is a prominent figure in the world of Orientalism, often regarded as a moderate and impartial British Orientalist. However, a deeper analysis of his thoughts and theories reveals a complex picture. While Nicholson is commonly associated with scholars like Goldziher, Danté, Suroosh, More, Hamilton Gibb, Michael Hart, Edward Gibbon, Montgomery Watt, George Sale, Joseph Schacht, and Biddle, who held prejudiced and anti-Islamic views, it becomes evident that he was in no way less influenced by their biased perspectives. Nicholson holds a significant place in the academic world of the West, with a profound interest in religion and various aspects related to it, including philosophy, poetry, and history. However, his central focus remains Sufism. He was a close associate of renowned Orientalist T.W. Arnold and had students like E.G. Brown and J.A. Arberry, along with being a mentor to the famous Eastern poet and philosopher Allama Iqbal.  This study explores how Nicholson, by maintaining a balance between critique and inquiry, contributed to the scrutiny of Islamic thought, philosophy, history, and jurisprudence. It specifically sheds light on his unscientific and biased expressions regarding the prophethood, mission, and miracles of the Prophet of Islam, especially the miraculous Ascension.