Hazrati Imam, or by his full name Abu Bakr ibn Ismail al-Kaffal ash-Shoshiy, was born and died in Tashkent more than a thousand years ago. For many pilgrims, he remains not merely a historical figure, but the principal holy figure of Tashkent, whose name is inseparably linked with the city’s spiritual history.
The word “Hazrati” translates as “most respected,” “holy,” or “lord,” and “Hazrati Imam” means “most respected imam,” “holy imam,” or “lord imam.” This is not simply an honorific title. It is recognition of his wisdom, piety, and influence.
Abu Bakr was born in Tashkent (“ash-Shoshiy” means “from Tashkent”) in 903 or 904. His nickname Kaffal — “locksmith” — was connected to his family’s craft of making locks. However, the young man chose not to continue the family trade and instead pursued knowledge. He first studied at a madrasa in Tashkent, then in Samarkand, Khorasan, and finally in Baghdad, the capital of the Arab Caliphate at the time.
Scholar, philosopher, and diplomat at the court of the caliphs
In Baghdad, Abu Bakr ash-Shoshiy spent a significant part of his life. He served at the court of the Abbasid caliphs and was known as Shoshiy al-Kabir — that is, the Great Tashkenter. There he distinguished himself as a diplomat, poet, theologian, philosopher, jurist, and an outstanding figure. His correspondence with the Byzantine emperor Nikephoros II testifies to his authority and international renown.
The return of Hazrati Imam to his native Tashkent
In his later years, Abu Bakr returned to his native city, which at that time was suffering from the invasions of the Turkic Karakhanids. According to some accounts, he entered into negotiations with them, persuaded them to renounce violence, and even to accept Islam. It was then that he began to be venerated as Hazrati Imam — a mediator between people and God, and the holy patron of Tashkent.
The legacy of Abu Bakr
Abu Bakr ash-Shoshiy died in 975 or 976 at the age of 73. He was buried in a mausoleum that was rebuilt centuries later but continues to retain its spiritual significance. On the square bearing his name, pilgrims and tourists gather daily.
The mausoleum in its present form was rebuilt in the 16th century. The arch in front of the entrance is a later construction from the 20th century. Nearby are buried his students, companions, and other spiritual leaders. This place is not merely an architectural monument; it is a living part of the spiritual fabric of Uzbekistan.
Traveler’s recommendation
If you find yourself in Tashkent, be sure to visit the square and the Mausoleum of Hazrati Imam. It is not only a part of history, but also an opportunity to touch the legacy of a man who left a profound mark on Islamic civilization.