Al Hakam - 26 July 2019

100 Years Ago...

Recent letter from London

Al Fazl, 29 July 1919

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Iqamatus-Salat

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas

(Observance of Prayer)

Part XVI

Part IV

Has the plague been eradicated?

Kibaale (Uganda) Peace Symposium and regional Jalsa 2019

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Page 6

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 26 July 2019 | Issue LXXI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Final stages of 2019 Jalsa Salana UK preparations

Mohammed Nasser Khan Afsar Jalsa Salana

W

ith Jalsa Salana UK right around the corner (starting Friday 2 August) preparations in Hadeeqatul Mahdi are moving at full speed.

Currently there is a huge amount of work taking place to prepare for the

Jalsa at various locations, including in Hadeeqatul Mahdi, Baitul-Futuh and Islamabad. Volunteers are flooding the Jalsa Salana site every day to offer their services in preparations.

At present, many of the marquees have already been erected, including the

Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

Good conduct Hazrat Jabir, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The one dearest to me and the one nearest to me on the Day of Judgment will be the one who is most well-mannered.

The most loathsome from among you and furthest removed from me on the Day of Judgment will be the boastful, the braggarts and the mutafayhiqun.” The Companions equired, “We know the ones who are boastful and those who brag, but who are the mutafayhiqun?” The Holy Prophetsa answered, “They are those who are arrogant and spiteful.”

(Tirmidhi)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Heavenly and earthly calamities

scanning and food marquees. The two main marquees for men and ladies, which will serve as the Jalsa Gah and where the Jalsa proceedings will take place, are currently being erected.

Continued on page 3

Calamities were also to serve as a sign.

Heavenly calamities took on the form of famine, plague and cholera. The plague is an affliction so vicious that it has even shaken the government, and if it continues to grow, it shall devastate the entire country.

As for earthly calamities, there are wars and earthquakes, which have destroyed the land.

It is necessary for a person commissioned

by Allah to manifest heavenly signs in support of their truth as well. Was the sign of Lekhram not a magnificent sign? This contest ensued for many years with the term outlined in advance. This encounter went on for five years without fail. Both parties published announcements and the matter gained publicity – unmatched publicity. Then, the events unfolded exactly as prophesied. Is there any other example of such an occurrence? Similarly, well before the Conference of Great Religions (Dharam Mahautsav) I announced many days in advance that Allah Almighty had informed me that my essay would be superior to all others. Those who witnessed this grand and awe-inspiring conference can reflect and understand for themselves that to foretell one’s triumph over all others in a conference of such stature could not have been a mere conjecture or guesswork. Ultimately, the prophecy was fulfilled.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 50-51)

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Ahmadi Muslim delegation visits Hongbeopsa Temple, South Korea

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History 26 July - 1 August 26 July 1913: Hazrat Syed Zainul Abidin Valiullah Shahra and Sheikh Abdur Rahman Sahib were sent to Egypt to excel their expertise in Arabic language. Sheikh Abdur Rahman Sahib later attached “Misri” (someone related to Misr – Egypt) with his name.

Dr Tariq Shamim Khwaja, National Sadr South Korea

A

5-member delegation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association South Korea took part in a Buddhist Temple Stay at the Hongbeopsa Temple, Busan, South Korea on 27 and 28 April 2019. Professor Noriko Sato, a very good friend of the community in South Korea had arranged for this opportunity to promote the peaceful message of Islam to the Buddhist community.

A request for prayers was specifically sent to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa for our successful participation. The Temple Stay lasted 20 hours and included non-Ahmadi participants from the USA, UK, South Africa, China, and Fiji. Activities included meditation, monastic meal tradition, walking meditation, threading and dharma talk.

At the end of the programme, the hosts kindly granted an opportunity to the National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association South Korea to present a copy of the Holy Quran to the respected Head Monk, Ven Shimsan of the Jogye Order. He was overwhelmed to receive a copy and the gesture was such a pleasant surprise to all participants that the Ahmadi delegation became a highlight of the session. Subsequently participants also requested copies of the Holy Quran with translation in their native languages. With the special blessings of Allah, the Ahmadi delegation became the highlight of the programme.

The primary host of the Temple Stay said, “Thank you so much for your coming to the temple. It was a really great chance to meet your association. Your respectful attitude and kindness is really impressive to us. Also, it was an honour to have you.”

A Chinese Student in Korea, after receiving the Holy Quran with Chinese translation, said, “Thank you so much. It is really elegant. The book that I brought from China is about to be finished. Now I have this one.”

Prof Noriko Sato said, “I have just received a call from [the organiser]. They are pleased with your visit. The head monk appreciates your present, Quran. [The organiser] welcomes you to the coming events.”

May Allah enable the community to further its outreach efforts as per Huzoor’s desires. Amin.

26 July 1947: Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarulla Khanra presented the case of Muslims of the Indian subcontinent in front of the boundary commission, which was devised to decide the borderline between India and Pakistan. His proficiency, acute knowledge and command on the subject was highly applauded by all concerned parties.

27 July 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira graciously approved the request of dignitaries of Multan city and delivered a speech which was full of knowledge and wisdom. A large gathering thronged to benefit from this address delivered in the hall of Madrasa Anjuman Islamiya.

27 July 1928: Hafiz Jamal Ahmad Sahib was sent to Mauritius as a missionary. He spent the next 21 years serving there, propagating the message of Islam on this island. He passed away on 27 December 1949 and was buried there. On his demise, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said about Mauritius, “Blessed is that land where one as supremely resolute and pious as him is buried”.

27 July 1937: Sheikh Abdur Rahman Misri started mischievous activities by creating secret groups to spread his malicious agenda amongst members of the Jamaat about Khilafat.

27 July 1955: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud was in London, where a blessed soul from Malta accepted Ahmadiyyat.

This person was an engineer by profession. In this way, the Jamaat was established on a small island in the Mediterranean Sea. ra

27 July 1956: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a Friday sermon, in which Huzoorra drew the attention of members of the Jamaat to study historic events from Islamic history, such as when a conspiracy was hatched

by Abdullah bin Saba against the third Khalifa-e-Rashed, Hazrat Usmanra. Huzoorra spoke strongly about the destructive outcomes of those perilous plans.

27 July 1957: A seasoned missionary of the Jamaat, Sheikh Mubarak Ahmad Sahib laid the foundation stone of a mosque in Jinja, a town in southern Uganda, on the shore of Lake Victoria – the source of the Nile.

28 July 1914: A prophecy by the Promised Messiahas with worldwide effects began to unfold, when, one month to the day after Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife were killed by a Serbian nationalist in Sarajevo and Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, the First World War reared its ugly head.

28 July 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra with his entourage boarded an express train to reach Cairo from Port Said during his tour of Europe.

28 July 1960: Allama Niaz Fatehpuri visited Qadian and stayed there for two days. He penned a powerful review about the Jamaat. He used to admire and recognise the great and eminent knowledge of the Quran that Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra possessed. He once stated, “There is no denying the fact that Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani has surely rekindled the morality and ethics of Islam and created a community, whose life can certainly be considered a reflection of the character of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.”

29 July 1910: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra delivered what was probably his first ever Friday Sermon, while Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira was away on his tour of Multan.

29 July 1926: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra embarked on his journey towards Dalhousie. From there, he returned to Qadian in September.

29 July 1956: Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya of Karachi arranged its annual Ijtema. On this occasion, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent his message, which bore the core theme of observance of complete obedience towards Khilafat.

29 July 1957: The chancellor of Austria was gifted a copy of the Holy Quran’s German translation.

31 July 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira addressed the general public gathered at the Ahmadiyya Building in Lahore to listen to what he had to say. Hazrat Maulvi Nuruddinra chose the topic of Islam and its comparison with other religions. Huzoorra made his journey back to Qadian the same evening.

31 July 1920: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled to the hillside city of Dharamshala, nowadays located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by cedar forests on the edge of the Himalayas, Huzoorra stayed here until 27 September. During his stay, Huzoorra composed his famous, heart-rending and energising poem, “Naun-e-halan-e-Jamaat…”

31 July 1928: Hazrat Syeda Sara Begum, noble wife of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, passed the examination of Adeeb.

She stood first amongst the female candidates from the whole province.

31 July 1954: A group of climbers from Italy scaled the second highest summit of the Himalayan range, K2. An Ahmadi youth, Col Muhammad Ataullah was a local team member, who accomplished this historic triumph.

31 July 1958: The revered wife of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra, Hazrat Syeda Umm-e-Nasir passed away in Murree.

31 July 1962: Digging work began in Switzerland for a new Ahmadiyya mosque.

August 1923: A group of young men from Sumatra, a large island in western Indonesia, reached India to acquire religious studies. After they reached Qadian, some of them entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat just after gaining basic information and spending time with the local Ahmadis.

August 1935: The Second Italo-Ethiopian War, also referred to as the Italo-Abyssinian War, was raging and engulfing the region day by day. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was greatly concerned for the locals there. Huzoorra instructed and dispatched Dr Nazir Ahmad Sahib, son of Hazrat Master Abdur Rahmanra (Mehr Singh), to discharge medical duties and general welfare tasks for the masses.

Later, Ethiopia was defeated, annexed and subjected to military occupation and the Ethiopian Empire became part of the Italian colony of Italian East Africa.

August 1939: To inculcate the habit of hard work and to discourage laziness, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra instructed to arrange a marathon walk for Waqifeen from Qadian to a nearby village.

August 1950: Bashir Ahmad Orchard Sahib began publishing the Muslim Herald from Glasgow, UK. 1 August 1923: Hazrat Amma Jan, Nusrat Jehan Begumra laid the foundation stone for the female ward in Noor Hospital, Qadian.

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Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

The wooden flooring that is laid in the various marquees is fitted every year by Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Ansarullah through waqar-e-amal. In Hadeeqatul Mahdi, we will have approximately 100 portable shower and toilet cabins for guests, while temporary lavatories are also being built from scratch by our very own Khuddam. Specialist teams consisting of our own Khuddam and Ansar connect these facilities to our water supply and sewage systems for the inflow and outflow of water and waste.

There is a huge demand for electricity supply and lighting throughout the Jalsa period. Our volunteer teams have already done 50% of the electrical wiring throughout the site. Volunteers have also completed approximately half of the plumbing and maintenance works required during the Jalsa period.

On average, we install 12 miles of metal tracking throughout Hadeeqatul Mahdi. This year, Insha-Allah, in view of weather forecasts predicting sun during the three days of Jalsa, 9 miles of tracks will be sufficient.

We always have contingency plans in place to deal with any eventualities and adverse weather conditions. At present, 45% of these tracks have been installed.

Marquees have been put up at Jamia Ahmadiyya UK in Haslemere where some guests will be staying. Additional portable showers and toilets have also been delivered to Jamia and 50% of the electricity requirements on this site have been completed.

With Islamabad being the new Markaz where Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa resides, we expect a huge flow of guests in Islamabad. The kitchen, or Langar, is serving lunch and dinner for guests on a daily basis now.

A huge aspect of the Jalsa Salana site is water supply as well. On average, the total amount of water used during the Jalsa period is 2.2 million litres of water. We use pillow tanks to store the water, with each tank holding 100,000 litres of water. 7-8 of these tanks pump water out to showers, toilets etc.

Our entire water supply is first cleaned through a process known as chlorination, then an external company takes 12-13 samples of the water from varying points throughout our water network, after which they test the samples taken and finally provide a report to the council.

Only when the results are approved are we permitted to use our water supply for Jalsa Salana.

At the moment, there is an organised Waqf-e-Arzi (voluntary work dedicated for the service of the Jamaat) taking place

by Khuddam and they are also covering various security posts throughout Hadeeqatul Mahdi 24 hours a day.

As each day passes, the intensity of the work increases and by the grace of Allah, we are witnessing an increasing number of volunteers who are arriving to take part in waqar-e-amal.

We request prayers from Al Hakam readers and members of the Jamaat for the success of Jalsa Salana UK 2019.

Kibaale (Uganda) Peace Symposium and regional Jalsa 2019

Batte Ahmad Uganda Correspondent

13 July 2019 marked the beginning of regional peace symposium and regional Jalsa. Kibaale region was the first to organise such a gathering in the country of Uganda this year.

After the arrival of Amir and Missionaryin-Charge Maulana Muhammad Ali Kaire Sahib, the programme started with Zuhr and Asr prayers led by Amir Sahib followed by the inspection of different departments.

The formal programme started with a recitation of the Holy Quran from chapter 2, verses 256-258 and its translation by brother Qaasid Opio, which was followed by a recitation of an Urdu poem of the Promised Messiahas by Sheikh Nasir Ahmad Ssonko.

Next, a representative of the chairman local council of Kibaale village thanked the Jamaat administration for arranging such an educational function.

The first speech on the programme was “Islam – a beautiful religion” by Sheikh Adam Hamid Ssembajjwe. In his speech,

he started with reciting chapter 3, verse 20 of the Holy Quran and went further to explain that God’s mercy encompasses all the creation and presented examples of such favours which humans collectively receive from God, like rain, sunshine etc. and how the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, the founder of Islam, was a mercy for all mankind.

The next speech was about the pillars of Islam by Sheikh Ibrahim Kadeku. He started by reciting chapter 2, verses 256258 of the Holy Quran. In his speech, he mainly emphasised the fact that God is One, Self-Subsisting and All Sustaining, which in other words is the first pillar of Islam in the form of “There in none worthy of worship except Allah”. He then proved that all other deities which are being worshipped beside God, are not self-subsisting.

Thereafter, short speeches were given by the invited guests; Mr Kiwanuka Abu Baker, the chairman of the local county.

In his speech, he thanked the Jamaat for holding such a great event.

Next was Muhire Jessica, who is the councillor of this county. In her speech she stated, “I am very happy you can make this great function not to spread hatred and rancour among the masses but for rightly guiding our people. Thank you very much”.

Next was Ssuubi Kinyamatama who also thanked the Jamaat for this symposium which is unique in its kind in this area.

Following this were the closing remarks

of Amir Sahib. To conclude this program, he recited chapter 49, verses 11-14. The world is in trouble, said Amir Sahib, due to people considering themselves superior to others, but the true Islamic teachings, which are exhibited in these verses show that we are all equal in the sight of God. He then said that the attendance of this symposium was 1,560.

The event came to an end with silent prayer.

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM

4 Jehan Begum Sahibara, the blessed wife of the Promised Messiahas, states that the Promised Messiahas said to her: “Once, I travelled for a lawsuit. Other cases were being dealt with while I waited under a tree outside. Since it was time for prayer, I began to offer my prayer right there. However, during my prayer, I began to hear my name being summoned by the court, but I continued praying.

When I completed my prayer, I noticed an attendant of the court standing next to me.

As soon as I completed it, he said, ‘Mirza Sahib! Congratulations, you have won the case.” (Sirat-ul-Mahdi, Vol. 1, p. 14) Despite being in severe pain and illness, the Promised Messiahas always paid due regard to iqamatus-salat. I present one example of this.

The Promised Messiahas was authoring a book called Nurul-Haq in response to a book written by a Christian. Only four or five pages had been written when the Promised Messiahas was struck with a severe headache. The pain increased so much that the Promised Messiahas could repeat the words “Ya Hayyu ya Qayyumu not come to the mosque for three days. birahmatika astagheeth” (O Living and Self On the fourth day, after feeling slightly Sustaining Allah, I beseech Thy Mercy). He better, he came for the Fajr prayer and would repeat these words again and again offered the congregational prayer with with great emotion and passion as someone great difficulty whilst sitting. The state asks for something of his superior, whilst of his illness was such that the Promised weeping, asking for his desired item again Messiahas was heavily perspiring, and he and again. Generally, his prostrations was so weak that after the prayer, he could before Allah in prayer were very lengthy not even sit any longer and lay down in the and at times it seemed that he would melt mosque. (Tadhkiratul Mahdi, pp.48-49) and flow away in his emotions.

Hazrat Sardar Begumra, wife of Hazrat Another description of the prayer and Sardar Imam Bakhsh Qaisaranira, narrated supplication of the Promised Messiahas an inspiring anecdote. She stated: is found in a narration of Hazrat Maulvi “One day, Huzooras [the Promised Abdul Karim Sialkotira. He narrates that it Messiahas] developed renal colic. Among was the days when the plague was rampant other treatments, he himself or his wife, in Punjab and people were falling prey to Hazrat Amma Janra, fomented the painful this disease. This was the plague which had spot with pieces of clay, heated on fire. been manifested as a sign of the Promised He was very restless because of the pain; Messiah’s truthfulness, but due to his love he would lie down on the bed and then sit for mankind, he was engaged in prayer for up. Just at that moment, the Azan for Asr them. The way the Promised Messiahas was prayer was called. Huzooras, the chosen one praying astounded Maulvi Sahibra and he by God, tied up a heated piece of clay on said: to the painful spot and offered Salat. Thus, “There was such grief and emotion in he demonstrated that although disease is this prayer of the Promised Messiahas that inevitable, Salat is obligatory.” (Al Hakam, the heart of the listener melted, and the 21 September 1934) Promised Messiahas was weeping at the The great care of the Promised Divine threshold in such pain just as a Messiahas regarding the issue of iqamatuswoman in childbirth. Upon listening more salat reminds us of the perfect example of attentively, I noticed that the Promised the Holy Prophetsa at every step. The soul Messiahas was praying for the salvation is entranced to see how this true servant of mankind from the punishment of followed his Master, the Holy Prophetsa the plague. The Promised Messiahas was at every step. Furthermore, his state is saying, ‘If these people are destroyed in such that after fulfilling his responsibility this chastisement, who shall worship of worship to the maximum limits of his you?’” (Sirat Masih-e-Maud, Vol. 3, p. 395) capacity, he still felt embarrassment and In addition to Tahajud, the Promised shame.

Messiahas would sit in complete seclusion There is an incident in the era of the for the worship of Allah during a part Promised Messiahas when a dancer, who of the day. In his last years, when he had was invited to a non-Muslim’s home for Baitul-Dua built, he would shut the door a wedding, sang and danced all night and sit inside for about two hours and long. When the Promised Messiahas was engage himself in the worship of Allah. informed of this, he enquired, “Why don’t Many a time, in search of seclusion, he you find out how much this poor lady would go out and would sit and worship earned for the night?” It was discovered that his Lord in seclusion. she earned five rupees. When the Promised Another aspect of iqamatus-salat is Messiahas came to his companions the next that when the time for prayer arrives, morning, he said: it should be given precedence over all “I was embarrassed all night long other engagements. I present a beautiful that this lady worked so hard for a mere example of this from the life of the five rupees. We receive thousands and Promised Messiahas. Hazrat Syeda Nusrat

Iqamatus-Salat (Observance of Prayer) Part IV

Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Missionary-in-Charge UK

us study the state of iqamatus-salat of Salat) in the blessed life Lofet(observance the Promised Messiah in light of only a as

few examples.

The most luminous aspect of the life of the Promised Messiahas was his love for Allah. His whole life was absorbed in this very love and observance of worship, and prayer was his spiritual food. His observance of prayer in congregation was unparalleled. In the days of his youth, he was referred to by some family members as a masitar, i.e. the one whose time is primarily spent in the mosque engaged in worship. Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira writes: “I presented myself before the Promised Messiahas in 1882 and remained in his presence until a few months prior to his demise. I always found the Promised Messiahas compliant to the observance of congregational prayer. (Tadhkiratul Mahdi, p. 70) It is narrated by Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra that two or three years prior to the demise of the Promised Messiahas, whenever the Promised Messiahas could not come out for the Maghrib and Isha prayer, he would gather the women and children in the home and offer the prayers in congregation. (Speech at Jalsa Salana, 1930) In his early days, the Promised Messiahas would keep Hafiz Muinuddin with him for the sole purpose that in this way, he would receive the opportunity to offer prayer in congregation. During the lawsuits that he faced, the Promised Messiahas never missed a prayer. He would seek permission from the court and offer his prayers on time.

The Companionsra of the Promised Messiahas have painted a wonderful image of the prayers of the Promised Messiahas.

There is a narration of Hazrat Hafiz Hamid Alira that the Promised Messiahas would offer his prayers with great preoccupation and interest. He would repeat the words “Ihdinas-siratal-mustaqim” (Guide us in the straight path) very often and would

thousands, nay, countless gifts and rewards from our benefactor and protector, Allah the Exalted and we still do not work as hard. Similarly, when I hear the security guard at night, I become embarrassed that he watches guard all night long for a mere four or five rupees a month. He does not even rest during the shorter nights; he does not care about the cold or rain. On the other hand, some of us sleep so negligently in comparison to him. Man should do justice to himself in his own heart.” (Al Fazl, 16 August 1998) The final action of this blessed individual was prayer. In his last moments the Promised Messiahas became very weak.

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, his son, describes these last few moments: “When the time for morning prayer arrived [the Promised Messiahas] asked in a faint voice, ‘Is it time for prayer?’ A servant responded, ‘Yes Huzooras, it is time.’

Upon hearing this, the Promised Messiahas touched the sides of his bed, to perform tayamum [an alternative for ablution when water is unavailable] and intended for prayer whilst laying on the bed, but fell unconscious. When he regained consciousness, Huzooras enquired again, ‘Is it time for prayer?’ It was said that, ‘Yes Huzooras, it is time.’ Then he intended for prayer again and offered his prayer whilst lying there.” (Silsila-e-Ahmadiyya, Vol. 1, p.

177) This point is especially worthy of remembrance, that there is a very close relationship between iqamatus-salat and the institution of Khilafat. In Ayatul-Istikhlaf, by stating “ya‘budunani la yushrikuna bi shay‘a” (They will worship Me, and they will not associate anything with Me. [Surah al-Nur, Ch.24: V.56]), Allah has promised the believers that through the blessings of Khilafat, they shall observe their worship merely for the pleasure of Allah the Exalted. The community of believers, under the shade of Khilafat shall become a community of worshippers, and every individual of this community shall be an exemplary model of the divine injunction of iqamatus salat.

Therefore they shall receive a reward for standing firm upon the wholehearted unity of Allah the Exalted.

Today, God has placed the crown of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya upon this community; we have been granted this great reward. Therefore, O lovers and devotees of Khilafat! Come, let us express our gratitude for this divine blessing and let us express our attachment, loyalty and obedience to Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya by making a resolute intention that we shall apply the divine order of iqamatus salat upon ourselves in such a manner that every aspect of this topic holds true to our personalities. May prayer become our soul food. May prayer become the delight of our eyes and may our hearts find pleasure in prayer. May Allah make it so that we stand firm on this oath with a true heart, firm determination and true loyalty such as every one of our prayers falls true to every level of iqamatus-salat. May we remain alive with lively and life-giving prayers, and may we hand over our lives to our Lord whilst offering such acceptable prayers.

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM

5

100 Years Ago...

Recent letter from London Al Fazl, 29 July 1919 Alby Sahib Mr Abdul Rahim Alby Smith of Lagos, Nigeria has reached the UK on his way to Qadian for the reason of acquiring religious knowledge. He is staying here with me till he can reserve a space to board a ship.

He is a tall 25-year-old well-built gentleman. His [heart] is filled with immense love for religion. I have started to teach him the translation of the Holy Quran and Urdu so that he will be at ease when he reaches India. He is fascinated to see the city of London. Yesterday, I took him with me and in order to reach a certain place, we had to board an [underground] train which runs 25 feet below the surface of the earth.

At first, he was very anxious as to where we were going, but then he was amazed [and said] that it was very surprising.

Letter from the viceroy Primarily, letters were received from the [relevant] minister and prime minister of India regarding the resolutions that were passed for the mentally challenged people of India in a special Jalsa of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya held on 23 April. It was not until recently that a letter expressing gratitude was received from the viceroy of India addressed to this humble one.

Reform Bill Delegates of the National Congress like Mrs Annie Bessette etc. have arrived [in London] from India to carry out their efforts for the Reform Bill and to approve home rule for India. Concerning the same View of Hastings from the East Hill

matter, I received a telegram from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih carrying the news of my appointment as the political delegate of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. Efforts are underway to perform this task.

A letter to the secretary of the Reform Bill committee has been sent to set up a meeting. Along with the letter, a detailed article carrying our opinion has been sent as well so that, if time does not permit to have a detailed meeting face to face, our opinion would have at least reached them beforehand.

The window of opportunity is very short as the Reform Bill has already been read out for a second time in parliament.

Moreover, it has also been published in various newspapers regarding the delegates of India that they are not left with enough time to make any plan. However, it came to my knowledge that they will deliver several lectures London Underground in order to ensure that the passengers Englishmen become fully waiting to aware of their opinion. board a train, 1906 We have also started to hold a series of lectures for the same reason. The first lecture was held at the East End last Friday and the summary of this lecture has been sent to various newspapers by Mr AD Carr.

The second lecture was delivered at our hall last Sunday and its report has been sent to various newspapers as well.

As luck would have it, a letter of Mirza Kabiruddin Ahmad Sahib was also received in the recent batch of mail. It highlighted the good characteristics of the British Government in a reasonable manner.

Professor Haji Sahib read out this letter [before the gathering] and it was translated as well. It had a positive impact on the audience.

Mr SC Ahmadi delivered two lectures highlighting [the viewpoint of] the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Hastings and distributed a significant amount of literature.

Muhammad Sadiq (London) 20 June 1919

Inauguration of Ahmadiyya Mosque in Foumban Oumarou Adamou Cameroon Correspondent

amaat-e-Ahmadiyya Cameroon proceedJgurate ed on 12 June 2019 at a ceremony to inauthe Ahmadiyya Mosque of Foumban.

The ceremony was presided over by the Missionary-in-Charge of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in Cameroon Nayyar Abdul Khalique Sahib, National President Al-hajj

152nd Canada Day Celebrations Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

anada Day is the occasion of C celebrating the anniversary of Canada’s independence. 1 July 1867 was the day

when three colonies united into a single country, free from the British Empire.

Originally named Dominion Day, the day was renamed Canada Day in 1982. The 152nd Canada Day celebration was held on 1 July 2019 and by the grace of Allah, Jamaate-Ahmadiyya celebrated this important day across Canada to show their love and loyalty to the country.

Celebrations were held in 65 chapters of the community where local dignitaries, including mayors, MPs and MPPs attended the events. Members enjoyed activities such as free BBQ, henna application, kids show, bouncy castle, cake cutting ceremony, glass mosaic and Canadian flag hoisting to honour Canada. Below are highlights of the events held across Canada Vaughan The event started with hoisting of flags. City of Vaughan Mayor Hon Maurizio Bevilacqua hoisted the Canadian flag and MPP King-Vaughan Hon Stephen Lecce hoisted the Ontario flag followed by silent prayers led by Amir Jamaat Canada, Malik Lal Khan Sahib. Young children dressed in Red and White colours of the Canadian flag recited the national anthem. Many people in the audience joined the children with enthusiasm and pride.

Recitation of Quran started the formal portion of the ceremony followed by translation. Young children gave short presentations on what Canada means to them. City of Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Member Parliament of Canada Julian Fantino, regional councilors, and city councilors spoke on Canada Day and appreciated the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Community in building a better Canada.

Amir Jamaat Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib gave the concluding remarks.

Approximately 5,000 people attended this programme.

Calgary In Western Canada at the Baitun Nur Prairie Winds Park in Calgary, Alberta, the Jamaat hosted a successful Canada Day celebration with the theme of “Loyalty to Homeland is

Balla Baba and the 2nd Assistant of His Majesty the Sultan King of Bamoun in the presence of the Chief Imam of Noun division El Hadj Nji Mefire Njitari and members of the office of the Higher Islamic Council of Noun and its diaspora.

The ceremony ended after the Friday prayer, where participants prayed for peace and stability in Cameroon.

Part of Faith”. Thousands of Calgarians from all walks of life attended, including several dignitaries. These included the premiere of Alberta, mayor of Calgary, provincial ministers, MPS, MLAs, city councilors, and community leaders.

The dignitaries recognised the Jamaat’s leading role in promoting peace and harmony. A free BBQ, children’s games, activities for families and a flag hoisting ceremony were all part of the celebrations.

A conservative estimate puts attendance at 10,000.

Ottawa In Cumberland Village, Ottawa members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya held their Canada Day celebrations. Various celebratory events included free BBQ, henna application, kids show, bouncy castle, cake cutting ceremony, glass mosaics and hoisting of Canadian Flag.

Barrie In the township of Oro Medonte, about one-hour north of Toronto, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community was the official partner for the first time at the local Canada Day

Celebrations 2019 held at the Maryam Mosque. There were lots of family fun activities and free BBQ for all attendees.

Over 270 people attended the event including Mayor of Oro Medonte Harry Hughes, Attorney General Ontario/MPP Doug Downey, various township councilors and many community leaders.

Saskatoon Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is located in Central Canada where the Jamaat celebrated Canada Day at Baitur Rahman Mosque. The activities included a flag hoisting ceremony, singing of the national anthem by Atfal and Nasirat, a few speeches and cake cutting ceremony. The Mayor of Saskatoon, Mr Charlie Clark attended the ceremony.

Similar programmes were held in Brampton, Durham and many other chapters.

Loyalty to our country is part of our faith. May Allah enable us to continue to follow this beautiful teaching and work towards a better future of this country and the world. Amin.

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM

6 Responding to Allegations

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas – Part XVI

Has the plague been eradicated?

TJamaat’s founder, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam he opponents of the Ahmadiyya

Ahmadas of Qadian, point out that he stated in his book Mawahib-ur-Rahman (Bounties of God) that the plague was inseparable from nations like the dog of ashab-ur-raqim (people of the catacombs) and that it would haunt them for years as it is said that one plague epidemic lasts for 70 years.

Along the same lines, the opponents refer to a response of the Promised Messiahas towards a Maulvi of Amritsar who sought to wait for another year after the plague outbreak to reach a conclusion. They assert that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat claimed that the promise of God would prevail and the Maulvi should also wait and observe because the attacks of plague would continue for 70 years. The opponents allege that the statements of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s founder were proven false as the plague vanished in a matter of a few years.

The opponents have followed their customary practise of deceit and deception by presenting the statements of the Promised Messiahas out of context. Below is the first extract pointed out by the opponents with its full context, which was published in the book Mawahib-ur-Rahman on January 1903. The Promised Messiahas states: “Subsequently, the plague epidemic widely spread in every class of the country and people began to fall like locusts. This disease preyed on them like a furious lion or a wild wolf that attacks a herd of sheep.

Countless houses were rendered desolate.

Death pounced upon the populace of the country. The world was shaken to its core and the catastrophes befell upon hard and tender [surfaces] of the earth. This disease left no place and in fact, it reached the frontiers of this country. It ruined the villages and the cities located on the boundaries of the country and reached every person.

“It did not leave any well-dressed

[wealthy] or tattered-cloaked [poor] person. It entered every home, except for the one safeguarded by Allah the Almighty.

Consequently, flocks of armies presented themselves before the table of plague and they were served with the food of that table, which was death. They came as guests in the abode of this epidemic and they were presented with the goblet of death.

“In short, the outbreak of plague is affixed to this country like the one in debt or like the dog of ashab-e-kahf [people of the catacombs] that remained attached to them; I do not believe that it will end in a matter of a few years. It is said that the span of this catastrophe is 70 years.

“Certainly, it is that fire which has been mentioned in the sayings of KhatamunNabiyyin [Seal of all the Prophets – the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa] and as Rabbul-Alamin [Lord of all the worlds] has pointed out in the Holy Quran as well.

As Khair-ul-Rusul [the Best of Prophets] Hazrat Muhammadsa has already stated that it emerged from the east and it would soon engulf the population of the earth.

Likewise, it has been mentioned in the earlier scriptures as well. Hence, wait until you start believing, however, do not ask questions about it as it is very difficult and the torment of God is very huge.

“Everywhere is tumult and cries for help.

It is not a disease but a fire of hell. It is that earthly germ which speaks to the people and they are injured from it. Its bite has become very violent. It attacks people and kills them instantaneously because they do not believe in the signs of Allah the Almighty as it is stated by Allah the Almighty: َ َ ُ ّ َ ُ ْ َ َ َ ْ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ ُ ْ ُ ُ ْ َ َّ َ ْ َ ّ ْ َ ‫وها َعذ ًابا‬ ‫و ِإن ِمن قري ٍة ِإلا نحن مهلِكوها قبل يو ِم القِيام ِة أو مع ِذب‬ ً ‫َشد‬ ‫يدا‬ ِ [‘There is not a township but We shall destroy it before the Day of Resurrection, or punish it with a severe punishment’ (Surah Bani Israil, Ch.17: V.59)]. Likewise, you

witness [these days]. This is due to the fact that people do not turn to righteousness.

They spread transgression on God’s earth and they fear not. They increase in lewdness and sin, and they do not stop. They retreat on their heels when they are told to listen to what Allah has revealed to them. Hence, Allah punished them with this torment of His, so that they may return.” (Mawahibur-Rahman, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, pp.

244-246) Below is the complete account of the second statement of the Promised Messiahas, dated 9 May 1904, that is presented without its context by opponents: Attention was drawn towards a mullah of Amritsar who said that it was nothing remarkable that a year had gone by [since the plague outbreak]. He said to wait and observe the coming days to form a conclusion. The Promised Messiahas responded to this remark by saying: “He talks about a year. I firmly believe that the promise made by Allah the Almighty is indeed true and it [is said that the plague] continues to spread for almost 70 years. They should look forward to it and observe what happens, and we shall also wait with them. If they have received any news about us from Allah the Almighty, then they should publish it. I have published everything which has been revealed to me from Allah the Almighty and the world is aware of it. They should now steadfastly observe the outcome and see what happens.

“These people circulate various propaganda about us which befalls them in the end. A maulvi of Batala once said that Qadian was experiencing the plague while he himself had a swollen lymph node. He had brought it upon himself. Can swelling [of plague] occur without the order of Allah the Almighty? Nothing can happen on earth if there is no change in the heavens. In those days, when the plague epidemic was rampant in Qadian, we were experiencing an extraordinary display of God’s divine power. We used to hear screams from all around our house and our house was like a ship [sailing] in the sea in the centre. He safeguarded it through His sheer blessings and benevolence as He had promised and we certainly believe that He will surely protect us in the future as well by His grace and beneficence.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 17) The complete statements of the Promised Messiahas are self-evident that the opponents have levelled the objections with wicked and evil intentions as their false assertions do not express the entire context.

Referring to the above-mentioned statements of the Promised Messiahas, opponents say that 70 years have passed and scientists have invented various medicines which have led to the termination of major epidemics. Hence, the opponents opine that the prediction of the Promised Messiahas regarding the plague epidemic continuing for 70 years proves to be false.

Evidence of history contradicts and negates this viewpoint of the opponents.

The word “ta‘un” means a major epidemic or death by an outbreak.

We shall present factual evidence of various epidemics and outbreaks which struck the earth from 1905 to date.

We start off by mentioning the cholera outbreak which began its spread in Yemen from March 2017 and it is still around.

The Independent newspaper of the UK published an article on their website titled Yemen Cholera Epidemic: 300, 000 cases confirmed but vaccine plans “on hold”. The article has it: “More than 300,000 people are now infected with cholera in Yemen, a burgeoning health crisis adding to the war, famine and state collapse currently facing the country. The UN’s aid coordination agency confirmed this week there are now 313,000 cases and 1,706 deaths across Yemen’s 22 provinces since the outbreak of began in March.” (www.independent.co.uk/ news/world/middle-east/yemen-choleraepidemic-300000-cases-confirmed-vaccineplans-un-ocha-who-civil-war a7837406. html) Below is the list of various epidemics which caused destruction and deaths across the globe during the 20th century: Plague • Plague spread in China from 1910 to 1912, claiming 40,000 lives • In 1946, China witnessed an outbreak of plague • Plague struck India in 1994, leading to 52 deaths (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ epidemics#20th_century) According to a report, the plague epidemic claimed 1 million lives in 1907 alone. Between 1919 to 1928, annual deaths were 100,000 and 70,000. Annual deaths from the year 1929 to 1938 were 92, 000.

There were 22,000 death from the year 1939 to 1948. 1949 to 1953, annual deaths were 4600. Every year, 2000 to 3000 people are influenced by the plague throughout the world and 200 lives fall prey to it. Most of the cases surface in Africa. (Encyclopedia Britannica, under word: Plague. 2016) During the year 2003, there was an outbreak of plague in Algeria. In the year 2006 and 2014, the plague spread in Congo and Madagascar respectively. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ epidemics#21st_century) Influenza: • This outbreak spread from the year 1918 to 1920 across the globe which led to 70 million deaths • 1957-58, this epidemic occurred throughout the world and claimed 2 million lives • 1968-69, this outbreak struck the earth killed 1 million people • 1972-73, this epidemic spread in America (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ epidemics#20th_century) In 2009, influenza spread in the world and claimed 14286 lives. (https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/List_of_epidemics#21st_century) Malaria During the 20th century, this outbreak was responsible for 150 to 300 million deaths.

Throughout the world, the ratio of deaths from this outbreak was 2 to 5 percent as compared with other epidemics. (www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK215638) Cholera • This outbreak befell the earth for a sixth

7

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM time during the course of the years 1900 to 1923, which led to 500,000 deaths only in Russia • 1899 to 1923, 800,000 deaths were reported in India • 1910 to 1911, 12 deaths in America • It engulfed the world for the seventh time during the course of the years 1961 to 1975.

It began from Indonesia and spread in East Pakistan, India, Soviet Union, North Africa, Japan, South Pacific, Istanbul and various other countries across the globe • It spread in South America from January 1991 to September 1994, affecting more than 1 million people and claiming the lives of around 10,000 people • It spread in Asia in the year 1992 and continued till 1995 • July 1994, it claimed 12,000 lives in Congo.

According to a statement, the extremely dangerous days of this outbreak led to 3,000 deaths daily

Nigeria Jamaat lays foundation for new mosque Nurudeen Akinreti

ednesday, 10 July 2019 was no doubt a remarkable day in the history of W Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria as

the Amir, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Folorunso Alatoye laid the mosque foundation at OkeOre, Owode Branch during what could be termed his first official duty since his office on 1 July 2019.

The Amir, while giving his address, thanked the donor of the land and commended Majlis Ansarullah Nigeria whose efforts in tabligh resulted in the acquisition of the land, adding that only God Almighty could reward those who contributed to the project.

He urged all members to improve

• In the year 2000, WHO received a report of 140,000 cases through the government who were influenced by the outbreak. 87 percent of those affected were from Africa • July to December 2007, 22 deaths in Iraq and 4,569 cases emerged • August 2007, 2,000 people were influenced in three districts of Orissa, India • August to October 2008, 8 deaths in Iraq and 644 cases emerged • January 2009, 19 deaths in South Africa and 381 cases emerged • August 2008 to April 2009, 4,201 deaths in Zimbabwe and 96,591 people affected • October 2010, 1034 deaths in Haiti and the Dominican Republic with 167,000 people affected • 2012, 290 deaths in various African countries and 21,500 people affected • 2011-12, 194 deaths in Ghana and 16,000 people affected • 2013, 100 deaths in Ghana and 11,000 people affected • 2017 to date, 880 deaths in Somalia and 50,000 people affected (https://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Cholera_outbreaks_and_ pandemics#Seventh.2C_1961.E2.80.931975)

in their financial, spiritual and physical sacrifices towards mosque projects so that the Jamaat could have adequate mosque facilities for all new converts.

He further stated, “One of the fundamental issues in the Jamaat is the provision of mosques that can serve our new converts. Hence, there is a need for us to improve in our sacrifices, both physically and financially. We all have a role to play in constructing mosques for the Jamaat.”

“In the past, within the Jamaat, we hardly pay for labour. We only pay for experts while the Jamaat members provide all materials needed for a particular project.

Kenyan Ansar regional nazimeen meeting

AIDS • 1981 to 1998, 15 million deaths across the globe (http://necrometrics.com/all20c. htm#AIDS) Smallpox During the 20th century, smallpox claimed 300 million lives throughout the world. (http://necrometrics.com/all20c. htm#Smallpox) The above-mentioned details of major epidemics still prevalent on the earth shatters the argument of the opponents and affirms the prophecy of the Promised Messiahas that the world may witness years of epidemics and outbreaks till they return to their Lord for seeking refuge and forgiveness.

Dignity of labour (Waqar-e-Amal) must be resuscitated. Let us all contribute and donate generously to the progress of the Jamaat.”

Amir Sahib emphasised the need for all members of the Jamaat to submit themselves fully to the institution of Khilafat and obey all the instructions of Huzooraa.

He further said that where there is obedience, progress is certain. Before we can make any meaningful progress, we need to follow the instructions of Allah.

Members in a mosque must obey Allah, His commandments and constituted authority starting from the instructions of Huzooraa.

We must obey Khilafat with all humility and in its entirety. Obedience is very key to our development. The Amir further appealed to members not to hold back in tabligh activities.

Another highlight of the programme was the new converts who joined the fold of Ahmadiyyat.

It was reported that more people had earlier joined the Jamaat through the tabligh exercise organised by the Majlis Ansarullah Nigeria, while some others in the area filled the Bai‘at forms at the event.

The Amir congratulated the new converts and urged them to always fear Allah alone and be steadfast in worshipping God the Almighty.

Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, Engineer Abdul-Waheed Adeoye commended the critical role the former Amir, Dr Mashhud Fashola played towards the success of the project.

He stated that the auxiliary body had a similar project to implement at Ibogun side in Epe Area where there are 28 converts already. He stressed that the aim of the mosque building was to ensure that the Jamaat functions were effective after

Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

ajlis Ansarullah Kenya successfully M conducted a regional nazimeen meeting on 6 and 7 July 2019. This follows

a similar meeting that was held in February 2019.

The main aim and purpose of this meeting is to give reports from all eleven regions of the entire country by regional

representatives (nazimeen).

The reports were inclusive of all what was planned and done between the two meetings and to find out how each region has progressed in their work. Similarly, all nazimeen were required to air out the challenges faced in the implementation of their work and possible solutions to the challenges.

The Saturday sessions were chaired by National Sadr Ansarullah Kenya Sameer Ahmad Sheikh Sahib, who delivered his speech to all attendees. In his address, he welcomed all nazimeen and the entire national amila members and thanked them for coming.

He reminded all attendees to adhere to their roles as heads of different departments in the Ansar auxiliary. He said that it was their responsibility to write a report on

welcoming converts into the Jamaat.

Nazim-e-Ala of Majlis Ansarullah activities in Owode Region, Mr Surajudeen Mustapha, who was the architect of the land acquisition, recalled how he used his office as a certified surveyor to convince one of his clients, Mrs Hassanat Amusan to donate a portion of her land, measuring 110 x 65 feet a few years back for the building of a mosque. He added that the agreement on the land had already been prepared and was ready to be signed by both parties.

Owode branch President, Alhaj Ajibade commended the efforts of the surveyor and promised that the branch would continue to improve on its preaching activities in a bid to win more souls.

The Amir and his team later paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Imam of OkeOre, Alhaji Nasirudeen Raji Adegbite, who is a close friend of the Jamaat in the area. He thanked the chief imam for accommodating the Ahmadiyya Community.

He reiterated that the Ahmadiyya Community is a peace-loving organisation saddled with the reformation of the entire world and selfless service to humanity.

Dignitaries present at the event include Maulvi Nadeem Waseem; Naib Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Dauda Raji; Naib Sadr Saf-e-Dom, Mr Abdul-Waheed Towolawi; Coordinator of Missionaries’ activities for Owode & Ota, Mr Taoheed Ola Shoboyede; the Circuit Missionary Owode, Muallim Akintola Hassan and Coordinator of the Review of Religions Nigeria, Muallim Muhammad Qasim Oyekola.

everything that they do so that a clear record is kept. This would help in monitoring the progress of Ansar activities countrywide.

He also encouraged them to engage in tabligh activities and be cautious about five daily prayers and constant recitation of the Holy Quran and also inculcate these habits in their family members.

The two-day meeting came to an end with closing remarks from the Amir and Missionary-in-Charge Kenya, Tariq Mahmood Sahib. In his remarks, Amir Sahib said it was a great opportunity and a blessing to be granted a position to serve as an office bearer in Jamaat at large and that anyone granted this blessed opportunity should make sure they serve that position to the best of one’s God-given ability. He reiterated that each nazim in attendance should do their best to tell each and every member in their respective regions the importance of serving the Jamaat and should try their level best to implement what they have learnt from the meeting.

The meeting ended with silent prayer led

by Amir Sahib.

8

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 28 June 2019

Hazrat Zaid bin Harithara After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

T

here are a few more accounts from the life of Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha which I shall relate today. In relation to an expedition which was sent to the Banu Sulaim in Rabi-ul-Akhir 6 AH, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin: “In this month, Rabi-ul-Akhir 6 AH, the Holy Prophetsa dispatched a few Muslims to the tribe Bani Sulaim under the command of his freed slave and previously adopted son, Zaidra bin Harithah. This tribe resided in the region of Najd at a place called Jamum and had been at war against the Holy Prophetsa for some time now. As such, this tribe played a significant role against the Muslims in the Battle of the Ditch as well. When Zaidra bin Harithah and his companions reached Jamum, which was located at a distance of approximately 50 miles from Medina, they found it to be empty. However, they were able to find the whereabouts of where a portion of the Banu Sulaim were grazing their cattle, from a woman named Halimah from the Muzainah tribe who was from among the opponents of Islam. Therefore, benefiting from this intelligence, Zaidra bin Harithah attacked the place. This sudden attack caused most of the people to flee and they dispersed here and there. However, the Muslims were able to capture a few prisoners and some cattle, which they took hold of and returned to Medina. Coincidentally, the husband of Halimah was also among the prisoners, and although he was an enemy of war, considering Halimah’s assistance, not only did the Holy Prophetsa release Halimah without ransom but also released her husband as an act of benevolence.

Thereafter, Halimah and her husband happily returned to their homeland.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p. 669) In relation to another expedition of Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha which was sent to ‘Eis and took place in Jamadi al-Ula 6 AH, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin: “Not many days had passed since the return of Zaidra bin Harithah, when the Holy Prophetsa sent him from Medina once again during the month of Jamadi alUla, commanding 170 companions. The scholars of Sirat have written that the cause of this expedition was that a caravan of the Quraish was arriving from Syria and that the Holy Prophetsa had sent this squadron for the interception of this caravan …

However, here it is sufficient to allude to the fact that these caravans of the Quraish were always armed and whilst travelling between Mecca and Syria they passed very closely by Medina, and so they were a constant threat. Other than this, as has already been mentioned in the preliminary discussion on this topic, these caravans would provoke the tribes of Arabia against the Muslims wherever they passed. Due to this, a dangerous fire of animosity had been ignited throughout the country against the Muslims, due to which their interception was necessary.

“In any case, upon receiving news of this caravan, the Holy Prophetsa dispatched Zaidra bin Harithah to meet it. He moved forward with such intelligence, seizing the opportunity, that he was able to successfully reach Eis and intercepted the caravan. Eis is the name of a place situated at a distance of four days’ travel from Medina, towards the ocean. Since this was a sudden attack, the people of the caravan were unable to combat this assault of the Muslims. They left all their belongings and fled. Zaidra captured a few prisoners and took hold of the caravan’s load, set off to Medina and presented himself before the Holy Prophetsa.”

It should be remembered that every expedition that was sent, or any battle that took place was because there was always news of some threat from the approaching caravans and that they were conspiring against the Muslims in order to launch an attack.

Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha was sent on

another expedition in Jamadi al-Akhir in 6 AH which was sent to Tarif. In relation to this, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “Sometime after the Ghazwah of Banu Lihyan, in Jamadi al-Akhir 6 AH, the Holy Prophetsa dispatched a squadron of 15 men in the command of Zaidra bin Haritha towards Tarif, which was located at a distance of 36 miles from Medina. In those days, the people of Banu Thu‘labah resided there, but before Zaidra bin Haritha could reach it, the people of this tribe received a timely alert and dispersed. After a temporary absence of a few days, Zaidra bin Haritha and his companions returned to Medina.” Neither did any battle take place and nor did they go after and search for them. (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 690-681) Then there is another expedition of Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha towards the location of Hisma, which took place in Jamadi al-Akhir 6 AH. In relation to this, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “In this month, Jamadi al-Akhir, the Holy Prophetsa sent Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha with 500 Muslims towards Hisma to the north of Medina, which was the settlement of the Banu Juzam. The purpose of this expedition was because a companion of the Holy Prophetsa named Dihyah Kalbira was returning from Syria after meeting the Caesar of Rome. He was accompanied by goods as well, some of which were in the form of gifts etc. from Caesar, while some were goods of trade. When Dihyahra

passed by the region of the Banu Juzam, the chief of the tribe, Hunaid bin Arid, took a party of his tribe and attacked Dihyahra, and seized all his goods to the extent that they left nothing on the body of Dihyahra except for a few torn clothes. When news of this reached the Banu Dubaib, which was a branch of the Banu Juzam, some of whom had become Muslim, they chased this party of the Banu Juzam and reclaimed the stolen goods. Dihyahra took these goods and returned to Medina. Upon reaching there, Dihyahra related all the circumstances to the Holy Prophetsa, upon which the Holy Prophetsa sent Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha, and sent Dihyahra along with Zaidra as well.

“The squadron of Zaidra progressed forward to Hisma, journeying very intelligently and cautiously, hiding at day and travelling by night. They attacked the Banu Juzam in the morning exactly. The Banu Juzam retaliated but were unable to successfully confront the sudden attack of the Muslims and fled after a brief fight.

The battlefield remained in the dominance of the Muslims and Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha returned with many goods, wealth and cattle, as well as approximately 100 prisoners. However, Zaidra had not yet reached Medina when the Banu Dubaib tribe, which was a branch of the Banu Juzam, received news of this expedition of Zaidra.

In the company of their chieftain, Rifa‘ah bin Zaidra, they presented themselves before the Holy Prophetsa and said, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! We have become Muslims and we have been granted a written document for the protection of the rest of our people.

Why then were the people of our tribe included in this attack?’ The Holy Prophetsa responded, ‘Yes, you are correct, but Zaid was not aware of this.’ The Holy Prophetsa repeatedly expressed his grief for the people who were killed on this occasion. Upon this, a companion of Rifa‘ahra named Abu Zaidra said, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! We ask nothing for those who were killed, this was an accident due to a misunderstanding which has passed. But as for those who are alive, the property of our tribe which has been seized by Zaid should be returned to us.’ The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Yes, you are correct,’ and he immediately sent Hazrat Alira towards Zaidra. He also sent his own sword as a symbol with the message to Zaidra that all the prisoners and wealth which had been seized from this tribe be released at once. Upon receiving this order, Zaidra immediately released the prisoners and returned the wealth acquired in spoils

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Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM as well.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 681-682) Thus, this was the noble example of the Holy Prophetsa in relation to honouring his covenant. He did not inflict any injustice upon them. It is possible that some of the tribes may have intentionally took part in the battle, but since this was a misunderstanding on the part of the Muslims, therefore the Holy Prophetsa released them all and retuned their wealth.

Then there is mention of another expedition of Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha towards Wadi al-Qura which took place in Rajab 6 AH. It is stated: “After approximately one month after the expedition of Hisma, the Holy Prophetsa once again sent Zaidra bin Haritha to Wadi al-Qura. When the squadron of Zaidra bin Haritha reached Wadi al-Qura, the people of the Banu Fuzarah were ready for combat.

As such, numerous Muslims were martyred in this expedition, and even Zaidra himself was badly wounded, but God saved him by His grace.”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra states, “Wadi al-Qura, which has been mentioned with relevance to this expedition, is an inhabited valley situated on the Syrian route north of Medina, wherein many settlements resided. This is why it became known as Wadi al-Qura, i.e. the Valley of Settlements.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 682-683) The Battle of Mu‘tah took place in 8 AH. Mu‘tah is a place near Balqa in Syria.

Describing the causes and motives behind this battle, Allamah Ibn Saad writes that the Messengersa of Allah appointed Harith bin Umair as an envoy and sent him with a letter to the king of Basra. When he arrived at Mu‘tah, he was martyred by Shurahbeel bin Amr Ghassani. None of the envoys of the Holy Prophetsa were martyred except Hazrat Harith bin Umair. In any case, this incident was very distressing for the Holy Prophetsa.

When he called the people, who numbered 3,000, they immediately gathered in Jurf. The Holy Prophetsa announced that Zaidra bin Harithah was the commander over all of them. He prepared a white flag to give to Hazrat Zaidra and instructed him, “Go to the place where Harith bin Umair was martyred and to convey the message of Islam to those people. If they accept, then well and good. Otherwise, beseech Allah’s help against them and fight against them.”

The Battle of Mu‘tah was fought in 8 AH, during the month of Jamadi al-Awwal.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 2, pp. 97-98, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 34, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) It is narrated by Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar, “Allah’s Messengersa appointed Zaidra bin Haritha as the commander of the army during the Battle of Mu‘tah and said, ‘If Zaid is martyred, Jafar should take over his position, and if Jafar is martyred, Abdullah bin Rawaha should take over his position.’”

This army is also called “Jaishul Umaraa” [Army of Leaders]. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Maghazi, Baab Ghazwah Mautah, Hadith no. 4261) (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 7, p. 505, Hadith no. 22918) This is mentioned in Sahih al-Bukhari as well as Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal. It is also

mentioned in the narration in which Hazrat Jafarra said to the Messengersa of Allah, “I did not think that you would appoint Zaid as an Amir over me.” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “Never mind about that for you do not know what is better.” (Al-Tabaqaatul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 34, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, while mentioning the Battle of Mu‘tah, said ... (I have alluded to this particular incident a few weeks, or months, ago. Nevertheless, since I am mentioning accounts of Hazrat Zaidra, I will repeat this again.)

Hazrat Musleh Maudra writes: “The Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Zaidra as the commander of this military campaign. However, he also added, ‘I am appointing Zaidra as the commander of the army. If Zaidra is killed while fighting, Jafarra should take over the command in his position, and if Jafarra is killed, Abdullahra bin Rawaha should take over the command and even if he is killed then anyone whom the Muslims collectively agree upon, should take up the command of the army.’ As he said these words, a Jew was also sitting in his company. He said, ‘Although I do not believe you to be a prophet, but if you are truthful then none of these three individuals would return alive because anything uttered by a prophet is certainly fulfilled.’”

(In the previous sermon when I quoted this incident, it mentioned that the Jew went to Hazrat Zaidra and stated the aforementioned) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra further states: “At this, Hazrat Zaidra replied, ‘Regardless of whether I return from this battle alive or not, it is an undeniable truth that our Messengersa is truthful.’ Allah’s wisdom so ordained that this incident was fulfilled exactly as foretold. Hazrat Zaidra was martyred. Then, Hazart Jafarra took up the command and he too was martyred.

Then, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha took up the command of the army and was also martyred. It was possible that in this moment, the Muslim army could have dispersed but Hazrat Khalidra bin Waleed took the flag in his hand on the behest of the Muslims. Allah gave victory to the Muslims through him and he returned the army safely.” (Fareeza-e-Tabligh Aur Ahmadi Khawateen, Anwar-ul-Aloom, Vol. 18, p.

406-406) In Bukhari, we find this narration in the following manner. Hazrat Anasra bin Malik narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said that Zaidra took the flag and was martyred.

Following this, Jafarra grabbed hold of it and was also martyred. Then, Abdullahra bin Rawaha took the flag and he was martyred as well. As the Holy Prophetsa made this announcement, tears were flowing from his eyes. The Holy Prophetsa then said that following this, Khalid bin Waleed grabbed hold of the flag even though he was not among the appointed leaders and he was granted victory. (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitabul-Janaiz, Hadith no. 1246) When the news of the martyrdom of Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha, Hazrat Jafarra and Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha reached the Holy Prophetsa, he stood up and informed them first about Zaidra, “O Allah, forgive Zaid! O Allah, forgive Zaid! O Allah, forgive Zaid!” Following this, the Holy Prophetsa

said, “O Allah, forgive Jafar and Abdullah bin Rawaha.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 34, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990), Hazrat Aishara relates that when Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha, Hazrat Jafarra and Abdullahra bin Rawaha were martyred, the Holy Prophetsa sat down in the mosque and signs of grief and sorrow were visible on his face. (Sunan Abi Daud, Kitab-ul-Janaiz, Hadith no. 3122) In Tabaqat-ul-Kubra it is written that when Hazrat Zaidra was martyred, the Holy Prophetsa went to his family in order to offer his condolences. When the Holy Prophetsa went there, his daughter was in such a state where signs of weeping were visible on her face. Upon this, tears started to flow from the eyes of the Holy Prophetsa as well.

Hazrat Zaidra bin Abada said, “O Prophet of Allah, what is this? Tears are flowing from your eyes!” The Holy Prophetsa replied: ْ ُ َ َ ٰ ٰ ‫ھذا ش ْوق الحَ ِب ْی ِب اِلی َح ِب ْی ِب ٖہ‬ That is, “This is the love of a beloved for his beloved.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p.

34, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Mentioning the martyrdom of Hazrat Zaidra, Allama ibn Saad writes that the Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha as the leader of the army sent to Mu‘tah and, in fact, gave him preference above all the other leaders appointed for this expedition. When the Muslims and the idolaters confronted each other, the leaders appointed by Holy Prophetsa were fighting on foot. Hazrat Zaidra took the flag and commenced the battle and others also joined him in the battle. During the battle, Hazrat Zaidra was pierced by a spear and was martyred as a result. At the time of his martyrdom, he was fifty-five years old.

The Holy Prophetsa led the funeral prayer of Hazrat Zaidra and said, “O people! Seek forgiveness for Zaid, he swiftly entered the abode of paradise.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, pp. 33-34, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990), Hazrat Usamara, the son of Hazrat Zaidra, relates that the Holy Prophetsa would take him, i.e. Hazrat Usamara, and Hasanra and say, “O Allah! Love both of these as I love both of them.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab-ulFazail Ashaab-e-Nabi, Hadith no. 3735) Hazrat Jabalara relates that until the Holy Prophetsa set out for a battle, he would not give his weapons to anyone but Hazrat Alira and Hazrat Zaidra. (Kanzul Ummal, Vol. 13, p. 397, Hadith no. 37066, Muithitha AlRisala, Beirut, 1985) Hazrat Jabalara mentions another narration that the Holy Prophetsa was given two camel saddles as a gift. He kept one himself and gave the other one to Hazrat Zaidra. (Kanzul Ummal, Vol. 13, p. 397, Hadith no. 37067, Muithitha Al-Risala, Beirut, 1985) Hazrat Jabalara relates another tradition that the Holy Prophetsa was gifted two cloaks. He kept one for himself and gave the other one to Hazrat Zaidra. (Al-Mustadrik Ala’ Sahihain Li Al-Hakim, Vol. 3, p. 241, Kitab Marifat Al-Sahaba, Hadith no. 4963, Dar-ul-Kutb Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) In another place it is mentioned that Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha was called the beloved of the Holy Prophetsa. In relation to Hazrat Zaidra, the Holy Prophetsa said, “The most beloved to me from among the people

is he on whom Allah has bestowed His favour; and that is Zaid.” Allah the Exalted bestowed His favour upon him through his acceptance of Islam and the Holy Prophetsa did so by granting him freedom.” (Al-Istiaab Fi Ma‘rifa Al-Sahab, Vol. 2, p. 117, Zaid bin Haritha, Dar-ul-Kutb Al-ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2010) The gist of what history books have recorded about the Battle of Mu‘tah is that in order to respond to the earlier battle that took place in Mu‘tah, the Holy Prophetsa prepared a huge army in the month of Safar during the 11th year following the migration and the Holy Prophetsa instructed the people to prepare for battle against the Byzantine Empire. Although there is no direct connection with this particular battle to Zaidra bin Harithah as he was martyred in the earlier battle that took place at Mu‘tah, nonetheless his name is mentioned in reference to the preparation of the army, therefore I shall mention that part of history here.

A part of this has probably been mentioned already a while ago during the mention of Hazrat Usamara. In any case, Hazrat Usamara had not taken part in the Battle of Badr – at the time of the battle he was far too young – but because at that time I was mentioning the Companionsra in general, therefore he was also mentioned with reference to it. Nonetheless, on the day after this army was prepared, the Holy Prophetsa called over Hazrat Usama bin Zaidra, and, handing over the command of this expedition to Hazrat Usamara, said, “Go towards the place where your father was martyred,” and, regarding their departure toward the region of Syria, the Holy Prophetsa said, “When you depart, travel swiftly and reach the enemy before news of your approach reaches them. Then, first thing in the morning, attack the Ahl-eUbna (i.e. the people of Balqa).”

In Syria, Balqa is the name of a region situated near Mu‘tah which was where the Battle of Mu‘tah took place. And Balqa is a region situated in Syria between Damascus and the Valley of Quraa. With regard to this place, it is recorded that a person from the progeny of Prophet Lotas named Baaliq populated the area. In relation to Daroom, it is stated that it is a place found in Palestine, near Ghaza, which is situated on the route to Egypt.

In any case, the Holy Prophetsa instructed them, “Raze these places to the ground with your horses, to avenge Hazrat Zaidra.”

The Holy Prophetsa further said to Usamara, “Take guides who can show you the way as well, and also take such people as can perform the duty of reconnaissance – people who can properly inform you of the prevailing situation and circumstances there. May God Almighty grant you success, and return quickly.”

At the time of this battle, the age of Hazrat Usamara was between 17 and 20 years old. The Holy Prophetsa tied a flag with his own hands and said to Usamara, “With the name of Allah, strive in His path and battle him who denies God.” Hazrat Usamara took this flag in his hands and left, delegating the flag’s responsibility to Hazrat Buraidahra. This army began to gather at a place called Juruf. Juruf is also a place situated about three miles from Medina.

10 The total number of this army is recorded as 3,000. All of the Ansar and Muhajireen companions of the Holy Prophetsa were part of this army. Among them were some very prominent companions such as Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Ubaidahra bin Al-Jaraah, and Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas, but the commander appointed over this army was Hazrat Usamara, who was only 17 or 18 years old. Some individuals did object that a young boy had been made the Amir at such a young age over the companions who migrated with the Holy Prophetsa in the very early period of Islam. At this, the Prophetsa of Allah expressed his displeasure. He had a cloth tied around his head and had over himself a mantle. He stood at the pulpit and announced, “O ye people, what is this thing that has reached me which you say about Usamara being made commander over you?

If you have objected my decision in making Usama the Amir over you, then know that you have also objected to my appointment of his father as Amir before this.”

Then, the Holy Prophetsa went on to say, “I swear to God, he also possessed the qualities of leadership, (referring to Hazrat Zaidra bin Harithah) and after him, his son also possesses within himself the qualities of leadership. He was among those people who were dearest to me, and both of these (meaning father and son) deserve all the good in the world.”

Then, the Holy Prophetsa instructed, “So take a lesson of goodness from him, meaning Hazrat Usamara, for he is among the very best of you.”

This took two days prior to the Holy Prophet’ssa demise, i.e. Saturday, 10 Rabi al-Awwal. The Muslims departing with Hazrat Usamara had said farewell to the Holy Prophetsa and joined the army at a place called Juruf. The illness of the Holy Prophetsa had increased, yet he continued to insist on sending forth the army of Hazrat Usamara.

On the Sunday, the state of the Holy Prophetsa had worsened even further and Usama returned, the Holy Prophetsa was in a state of semi-consciousness and people were giving him medicine that day. Hazrat Usamara lowered his head and kissed the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa could not speak, but he raised both his hands to the sky and placed them on the head of Hazrat Usamara. Hazrat Usamara states that he understood that the Holy Prophetsa was praying for him. Hazrat Usamara then left to re-join the army. On Monday, the Holy Prophet’ssa health somewhat improved. He then said to Hazrat Usamara, “Depart with the blessings of God Almighty”. Hazrat Usamara took leave from the Holy Prophetsa and set off, instructing his men to march on.

All of a sudden, a man came and brought a message from his mother, Hazrat Umm-eAimanra, that it seemed the Holy Prophetsa was in his final moments and that his health had deteriorated significantly. As soon as he heard this terrible news, Hazrat Usamara returned with Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra to see the Holy Prophetsa.

When they reached, they found him taking his last breath.

On Monday 12 Rabi al-Awwal, after sunset, the Holy Prophetsa passed away. As a result, the Muslim army returned from Juruf to Medina. Hazrat Buraidahra planted

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM the flag of Hazrat Usamara at the door of the Holy Prophetsa. When the oath of allegiance was taken at the hand of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, he ordered Hazrat Buraidahra to take the flag to the house of Hazrat Usamara and to depart once more for the original purpose, i.e. to take the army which the Holy Prophetsa had prepared. Hazrat Buraidahra carried the flag and placed it where the army was originally stationed.

After the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, the sedition and apostasy had spread across the whole of Arabia, be it in ordinary men or men of influence, it had spread within approximately all the Arab tribes and their hypocrisy had become evident. In that period, the Jews and the Christians were staring in amazement, eager to see what happens next and began also making preparations to take revenge.

With the demise of the Holy Prophetsa and due to the small number of Muslims, their state was like that of a sheep during the night of a storm. The Muslims were in a very dire situation. Prominent companions had suggested to Hazrat Abu Bakrra that due to the severity of the situation, he should delay sending off the army of Hazrat Usamara and that they should be sent some time later. Hazrat Abu Bakrra refused, stating that even if beasts dragged his body around, he would still send this army in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Prophetsa and he would implement the instructions given by the Holy Prophetsa. Even if there remained not a single resident but him, he would still meet this decision. Hazrat Abu Bakrra duly upheld the decision of the Holy Prophetsa and put it into implementation by instructing all those in the army of Hazrat Usamara to re-join them in Juruf.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra stated that every single person who was part of the army of Hazrat Usamara and whom the Holy Prophetsa had instructed to join must not remain behind, nor shall he ever grant them permission to do so. They must join them, even if they have to travel on foot.

Nonetheless, the army was assembled once again. Owing to the delicate situation, the Companions advised again to stop the army from leaving. According to one narration, Hazrat Usamara asked Hazrat Umarra to convince Hazrat Abu Bakrra to revoke the order of sending the army so they could remain behind to contest against those who had rebelled and protect the Khalifa and the Holy Prophet’ssa grave against an attack from the idolaters. Aside from this, some Ansari Companions said to Hazrat Umarra that if the Caliph of the Holy Prophetsa – Hazrat Abu Bakrra – was resolute on sending the army, then he ought to request Hazrat Abu Bakrra to appoint a leader of the army that is more senior in age than Usamara.

Hazrat Umarra approached Hazrat Abu Bakrra and presented the opinions of the companions to him. However once again, Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied with the same firm resolve saying, “Even if the predators of the jungle enter Medina and take me away, even then I will never revoke a directive issued by the Holy Prophetsa.”

When Hazrat Umarra informed Hazrat Abu Bakrra about the opinion of the Ansar Companions, he asserted with authority, “Usama was appointed as the leader by the Holy Prophetsa and you want me to remove

him from his position!” Upon hearing the unwavering directive of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and his resolve to see it fulfilled, Hazrat Umarra met with the people who were part of the army. When the people enquired as to what happened, Hazrat Umarra replied in an angry tone saying: “Remove yourself from me immediately. It was because of you all that I was admonished today by the Khalifa of the Holy Prophetsa.”

In line with the orders of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, when Usama’s army gathered at a place called Jurf, Hazrat Abu Bakrra also came there. He met the army and arranged them himself. The scene at the time of departure was also astonishing. At the time Hazrat Usamara was riding his mount, whereas the Khalifa of the Holy Prophetsa – Hazrat Abu Bakrra – was walking beside him. Hazrat Usamara said, “O Khalifa of the Prophetsa! Either you take a mount to ride, or I will descend from mine.” Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied: “By God! Neither shall you descend from your mount, nor will I take a mount for myself. Am I not able to use my two feet and stride forward in the cause of Allah? Each time a ghazi [one who fights in the cause of God] takes a step, God Almighty rewards him the equivalent of 700 good deeds and he is elevated 700 times in rank, as well as having 700 of his sins forgiven.”

Hazrat Abu Bakrra required the assistance of Hazrat Umarra in Medina for several matters. However, Hazrat Abu Bakrra did not keep Hazrat Umarra behind on his own accord. Instead he sought permission from Hazrat Usama that if he deemed appropriate to grant Hazrat Umarra permission to remain behind. Hazrat Usamara responded to the call of the Khalifa and permitted Hazrat Umarra to remain behind. After this incident, every time Hazrat Umarra would meet Hazrat Usamara, he would address him, saying: ْ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ ُ َ َّ َ ‫السل‬ ‫ام َعل ْیک أیّ َھا الأ ِمی ُر‬ “Peace be upon you, O leader”. In response, Hazrat Usamara would say: ْ ْ ْ ْ َ َ َ ّٰ َ َ ‫غف َر الل ُہ لک یَا أ ِمی َر ال ُمؤ ِم ِنین‬ “O Leader of the Faithful! May God Almighty shower His forgiveness upon you.”

In the end, Hazrat Abu Bakrra gave the following words of advice to the army: “Do not show disloyalty nor break your covenant; do not commit theft, do not mutilate any corpses of the enemies; do not kill young children, women and the elderly; do not cut date palm trees nor burn them; do not injure any sheep, cow or camel except for those you slaughter for consumption.”

He then further stated: “You will pass by a people who have withdrawn to the Church for worship, leave them be. Similarly, there will be people who bring you food in dishes to eat. If you wish to eat therefrom, you ought to recite Bismillah [In the name of Allah] before eating. Then you will certainly meet a people who would have shaved their heads from the middle, but will have locks of hair on the sides. For them you ought to strike them slightly with your swords and then defend yourselves. May God Almighty protect you from all slander and safeguard you from the epidemic of the plague.”

Hazrat Abu Bakrra then turned to Hazrat Usamara and said, “Carry out all the tasks

assigned to you by the Holy Prophetsa.”

Through this conversation, whilst on the one hand Hazrat Abu Bakrra taught Hazrat Usamara the Islamic etiquette of war – in which one cannot commit injustice against anyone else – on the other hand, it is also evident that Hazrat Abu Bakrra was convinced that this army would be victorious. That is why he said, “You will be granted victories.”

Thus, Hazrat Usamara set off on the 1st of Rabi al-Aakhir, 11 AH. Hazrat Usamara and his army travelled for days on end and according to the instructions of the Holy Prophetsa, they eventually reached the area in Syria known as Ubna. The following morning, the army attacked the inhabitants from all four sides. The slogan raised on this occasion was: ْ َ َ َ‫ی‬ ‫ام ْن ُص ْو ُر ا ِمت‬ Meaning, “O You, who have been granted divine succour, fight!”

In this battle, whoever came up against a Muslim mujahid [one who performs Jihad in the way of God] was killed and many were taken prisoners. They gained a large amount of spoils from the war, from which one-fifth was taken out and the rest distributed amongst the army. The portion for the one riding a mount was twice as much as those on foot. After the battle, the army camped in this very place for one day and then set off for Medina the following day.

Hazrat Usamara sent an individual ahead of the army to Medina to relay the good news. In this battle, not a single Muslim was martyred. When this triumphant army returned to Medina, Hazrat Abu Bakrra, along with the Ansar and Muhajireen, went outside of Medina to welcome them. Hazrat Buraidahra was waving the flag ahead of the army. Upon reaching Medina, the army went to Masjid Nabawi. Hazrat Usamara offered two nawafil [voluntary prayers] and then went home. According to varying narrations, this army spent between 40 and 70 days outside of Medina. Sending the army of Usamara proved to be beneficial for the Muslims because the people of Arabia had begun to say that if the Muslims were weak and frail, they would never send this army on the expedition. Thus, through this, many of the disbelievers became alerted and refrained from carrying out their plans against the Muslims. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 2, pp. 145-147, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (As-Siratul Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, pp. 291-294, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) (Al-Kaamil fi Tarikh, Vol. 2, pp. 199-200, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2006) (Mujam-ul-Buldan, Vol. 1, p. 579) Through the grace of Allah and His Support, Hazrat Usamara fulfilled the words of the Holy Prophetsa to the letter. In terms of organisation and management of the army, he was very successful and this expedition proved to be a great triumph.

The Holy Prophetsa had stated that Hazrat Usamara was an exceptional leader. God Almighty’s grace, the prayers of the Holy Prophetsa and his Khalifa proved that Hazrat Usamara, like his martyred father Hazrat Zaidra, was not only worthy to lead, but he also had a lofty status owing to his morals and qualities. It was the firm resolve and tremendous courage of the Khalifa that

11

Friday 26 July 2019 | AL HAKAM he sent this army, despite several internal and external dangers as well as certain allegations. Then through the triumph and success, God Almighty taught the Muslims their first lesson that after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, all blessings lie in the obedience to Khilafat.

The Promised Messiahas has mentioned this in his book Sirrul Khilafah. (Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, p. 394, footnote) Nevertheless, may God Almighty shower His boundless mercy on Hazrat Zaid bin Harithara and his son, Hazrat Usamasa, who were the beloved and dear ones of our master and guide, the Holy Prophetsa.

After the Friday prayers, I will lead two funeral prayers in absentia.

The first funeral prayer is of Mr Siddique Adam Dumbia Sahib, who was a missionary serving in the Ivory Coast. He had been unwell for quite some time and had an operation for his prostate last year.

Similarly, he had some complications with his kidneys and was on dialysis. Owing to his ongoing treatment he was staying in Abidjan. Recently his health deteriorated and was subsequently taken to the Military Hospital, where he passed away on 14 June; Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.

Siddique Adam Sahib was born in Lausangeh, a village in the Ivory Coast, in 1950. He accepted Ahmadiyyat a short while before 1977. Aside from his wife, he is survived by 7 daughters and 2 sons.

Having dedicated his life for the services of the Jamaat in 1981, he travelled to Pakistan on foot with two other friends.

They travelled for approximately 1 year and enduring the hardships of the journey, they eventually arrived in Rabwah in 1982 and began studying in Jamia Ahmadiyya.

He completed his studies in 1985/86 and then returned to the Ivory Coast. Until his demise, he had the opportunity to serve as a missionary in various countries of West Africa for a period of over 30 years.

The details of his journey to Pakistan is as follows: When Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh toured Ghana, the visit of the Khalifa of the time brought about a revolutionary transformation within him. He returned to Ivory Coast and arranged for his passport to be made and then along with his friend, made preparations to travel to Pakistan in order to meet the Khalifa. During that same period, a young man from Mali, Umar Maaz Sahib, who is now a missionary of the community, came to the mosque in Abidjan and accepted Ahmadiyyat owing to a dream he had seen. A few days after accepting Ahmadiyyat, Umar Maaz Sahib expressed his strong desire visit the town of the Promised Messiahas and also to meet the Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas. Thus, all three of them decided to travel to Pakistan and began their journey on 20 August 1981.

They set off from Ivory Coast and in the first leg of their journey, they arrived at Ghana and met Wahab Adam Sahib, who was serving as the Amir and Missionaryin-Charge. After offering supplications and prayers, they travelled across Benin from Togo and reached Lagos, a city in Nigeria. After stopping at the mission house in Lagos, the missionary-in-charge there also bade them farewell with prayers and supplications and were also given

some financial help, before setting off for Cameroon.

They entered Chad via Cameroon and whilst in Chad, they were imprisoned and had to endure great difficulties. Nonetheless, they remained patient and steadfast and continued on with their journey. It was virtually impossible to continue on with their journey from Chad, however God Almighty guided them through a dream by telling them to join the army. Thus, they tried to join the Libyan army and God Almighty granted them miraculous help and the impossible was made possible. There was a time when the Libyan government decided to expel all foreigners from the country, however God Almighty made such provisions that not only was this ruling overturned, but they were also permitted to join the Libyan army on a voluntary basis and were commissioned to serve protecting its frontiers for almost 8 months.

When the war was over, they expressed their desire to travel to Pakistan to their officer-in-charge. Their superior told them to stay with them for a little longer and said he would arrange for them an international passport to travel to the USA and that they could go there instead of Pakistan. They thanked him for the offer but declined and told him that they would like to go Pakistan for the purpose of studies. The Pakistani Embassy refused to grant them a visa, but through their army in-charge, God Almighty provided them with an air ticket for Karachi and thus they arrived at the airport on 27 November 1982 in order to travel to Pakistan.

Once more they witnessed the help of God Almighty. Their army in-charge introduced them to a police officer and told him that they were travelling to Pakistan to seek Islamic studies and requested him to assist them in every way possible. The police officer helped them greatly and their aeroplane left from Damascus in the night and arrived at Karachi in the morning.

Although they had arrived at Karachi but were concerned as they did not have a visa.

After supplication and prayers, they presented their passports to the passport control officer, who asked them a few questions and they told him that they were travelling to Pakistan for the purpose of study. Subsequently, the officer stamped and signed their passports and then asked them where they will be travelling to in Pakistan. They told him that they wanted to go to Rabwah, upon which he enquired whether they were Qadiani [i.e. Ahmadis].

Before any ill thought could enter his mind and consequently influence him to cancel the stamp he had issued, one of his colleagues said that even if they were Ahmadi, just let them go as they are only here for the purpose of studies. Nonetheless, they had such a strong desire and passion to go to Rabwah and meet the Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas, they did not even realise to enquire whether there was a Jamaat in Karachi or any local member who they could in get touch with so that their journey could be made somewhat easier.

However, without making any contact with the local Jamaat, they headed straight to the railway station and asked to purchase a train ticket to Rabwah.

The person issuing the tickets at the station was a very selfish person and filled

with prejudice; he said that they did not issue tickets to Ahmadis. However, after arguing with him for two hours, he gave them the ticket for the cheapest carriage and charged them double the price. It took them 24 hours to reach Rabwah from Karachi. However, they had an intense desire to meet the Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas and they endured such a difficult journey to finally reach Rabwah.

After reaching Rabwah, they went to Dar-ul-Ziafat. They did not speak Urdu, however when they heard the words, “Khalifatul Masih IV” being uttered by everyone around them, they became a little apprehensive and enquired about the matter and were subsequently informed that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh had passed away and now Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh had become the Khalifa. They then had the opportunity to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and in 1982, they enrolled in Jamia.

After completing his studies in Jamia, he returned to Ivory Coast and was posted to serve in various countries. From 1987 to 1991, he was posted in Ivory Coast; from 1991 to 1992, he served in Niger; from 1992 to 1994, he served in Benin; from 1994 to 1996, he served in Togo and from 1996 till his demise, he served in Ivory Coast.

Basit Sahib, a missionary from the Ivory Coast, writes that Siddique Adam Sahib had a deep love for Khilafat and was a devoted servant of the community. He states that he had the opportunity to work with him for a very long period of time and he was very regular in his prayers and in offering the Tahajud and was blessed with true dreams. He also had a great ability to offer interpretations of dreams and would often relate the meanings of the dreams of his friends and relatives.

He would regularly submit his monthly report to the Markaz [central headquarters of the Jamaat] (and he would regularly write to me for prayers as well and it was his habit to always write in Urdu). He was extremely pious and very punctual and took all of his responsibilities seriously. He would always be mindful of being punctual and whatever work was assigned to him, he would ensure to complete it within the set time. He was always ready and willing to go on long tours and would carry out his preaching efforts in a very loving and soft tone. He would always mention the evils of the Dajjal, the signs of its advent and the current ills of the time and would then speak about the advent of the Imam Mahdi. Those listening to him would always be impressed by his style of speech and would always achieve success in his tabligh efforts.

Owing to his tabligh tours in the north of the country, God Almighty rewarded his efforts with thousands of converts. He would always mention his journey to Pakistan and also the grace God Almighty granted to him. As a proof of the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas, he would always give the example of how God Almighty has granted helpers to the Promised Messiahas in even far-off lands, who are willing to make sacrifices in the way of faith and how God Almighty would grant them His rewards and thus grant help and succour to His beloved Mahdi.

Siddique Adam Sahib’s style of speech was extremely attractive for the locals who

spoke the local language, Jula. He would also present programmes on the radio.

These programmes were of a very high standard and were very popular.

May God Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy and elevate his station. May He also grant his children patience and steadfastness and enable them to continue his good deeds.

The second funeral prayer is of Mian Ghulam Mustafa Sahib Mirak from the district of Okara. He passed away on 24 June at the age of 83 – To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.

The deceased was Ahmadi by birth and had great passion for worship. He was very regular in the congregational prayers and also in offering the Tahajud prayer and would call the Fajr Azan at his local mosque. He would always wake his family members up for Fajr and God Almighty had granted him the ability to observe the fasts of Ramadan right till his demise.

He had a great desire for tabligh and would always, in some way or another, convey the message of Ahmadiyyat to everyone he met. He was a very sociable, pious and sincere individual. He had a great bond of love with Khilafat and would regularly listen to the Friday Sermons and would also encourage his children to listen as well. He would always serve the official guests who had come from the headquarters and was always at the forefront in offering financial sacrifices.

He also had the opportunity to build a well in Tharparkar and provide water to the thirsty. He organised all his Wasiyyat payments prior to his demise. A few years before his demise, he had the opportunity to donate his house to the Jamaat and moved into a small room in the mosque.

The house is currently being used as an accommodation for the local missionary.

The deceased was a musi [pledged himself to the scheme of Wasiyyat] and leaves behind 5 daughters and 3 sons. He is the father of Ghulam Murtaza Sahib, who is serving as a missionary in Burundi and was not able to go back for his father’s funeral.

He was not able to return to Pakistan for his mother’s funeral either. Ghulam Murtaza Sahib thus endured these two tragedies with great patience and steadfastness. May God Almighty further increase him in his patience and steadfastness and enable him to fulfil his Waqf with loyalty.

Two of his grandsons, Qasim Mustafa Sahib and Muhammad Safeer-ul-Din Sahib, are both serving as missionaries. Another grandson, Bilal Ahmad, is a Waqf-e-Nau and became a doctor this year and entered the field of Waqf.

May God Almighty grant him His mercy and forgiveness and elevate his station. Ghulam Murtaza Sahib, who is a missionary, is busy conveying the message of God away from his homeland and as I said, he could not go back for the funeral.

May God Almighty grant him patience and steadfastness to bear this loss.

After the Friday prayers, Insha-Allah I will lead their funeral prayers in absentia.

(Translated by The Review of Religions.

Originally published in Al Fazl International 19 July 2019, pp. 5-10)

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