1. The Eight Principles
Eight foundational guiding principles of Darul Uloom Deoband.
Principle One — Madrasa expenses and public donations
Those responsible for the madrasa should make every possible effort to meet its expenses through abundant voluntary donations. They should strive themselves and encourage others to contribute toward this purpose.
Principle Two — Education and care of poor students
Complete arrangements should be made for the education and upbringing of children from poor and weaker sections, and every reasonable facility should be provided so that they may pursue knowledge with concentration and poverty does not become an obstacle to their education.
Principle Three — Consultation and the Shura
Along with the general public, contact should be maintained with experienced and capable people who understand administration and management. Members of the Shura should be devoted to truth, honesty and selflessness. There should be no improper restriction on expressing an opinion, nor hesitation in accepting another person’s sound opinion.
Principle Four — Unity and humility among teachers
All teachers should be united in their religious orientation and school of thought, and they should be humble and modest. Their hearts should be free from pride, arrogance and self-importance, and they should not seek to belittle anyone. If unity of religious outlook among the teachers is lost, it is not good for the madrasa.
Principle Five — Curriculum and method of teaching
The curriculum, method of teaching and expected amount of study should be settled through the experience and consultation of people of knowledge. What is agreed upon should then be properly completed and observed; such educational discipline is necessary for the progress of the madrasa.
Principle Six — Sources of income and reliance upon Allah
The madrasa should not have only one fixed source of income, nor should it place its entire reliance upon a single person or source. As long as this remains the case, the madrasa can continue successfully. If, however, a guaranteed source of income is obtained—such as property, a factory, or permanent support from a wealthy patron—there is a danger that turning to Allah and the spirit of reverent reliance upon Him may weaken, unseen help may cease, and disagreements may arise among those responsible for the madrasa. In short, while arranging income and expenditure, including construction, there should remain a degree of material simplicity together with complete reliance upon Allah Most High.
Principle Seven — Freedom from government aid and interference
Participation by government or powerful patrons that compromises the institution’s independence is harmful. Therefore, the institution should be protected from government financial assistance and governmental interference.
Principle Eight — Sincere donations
Donations from people whose purpose is not fame or public display are a greater source of blessing. Sincere giving by donors, with a good intention, becomes a means of stability and continuity for the institution.