Al Hakam - 28 June 2019

Iqamatus-Salat (Part I) The importance of Salat and our responsibilities as Ahmadi Muslims

Page 6

A

International Jamaat cricket tournament held in London

Verbal claim of Bai‘at is not enough

Majlis-e-Sehat UK hosts yet another

Responding to Allegations –

successful International Masroor T20

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas

Cricket Tournament (18-23 June)

(Part XIII)

Page 3

Modern technology for the service and propagation of Islam How the advancements of today should encourage us to propagate the message of Islam with more passion than before

Page 10

Page 9

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 28 June 2019 | Issue LXVII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

“Climate apartheid” Another ingredient for global unrest

A UN human rights report on Tuesday highlighted the “Climate apartheid” the world is headed towards, where the rich escape the disastrous effects of climate change while the poor bite the bullet.

Philip Aston, the special rapporteur on extreme poverty to the UN Human Rights Council , panned out the failures of governments in effectively coping with climate change despite warnings from scientists since the 1970s, referring to “thirty years of [climate change] conventions” as having little effect and “an over-reliance on the private sector” conceivably leading to an apartheid of suffering between the rich and the poor.

The wealthy could “pay to escape overheating, hunger, and conflict, whilst the rest of the world is left to suffer”, he wrote. If governments neglect effective measures and rely solely on the private sector to contend with global warming, then, according to Aston, we could almost guarantee “massive human rights violations” where “hundreds of millions will face food insecurity, forced migration, disease and death.”

The reality is harsh. Climate change Continued on page 2

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

On the supplication of a traveller Hazrat Abu Huraira, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Three supplications are assured of acceptance without a doubt: The plaint of a wronged one, the prayer of a traveller and the prayer of a father for his child.”

(Abu Daud and Tirmidhi)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Disciplined and proper use of the human faculties None of the faculties endowed by Allah Almighty have been granted to man so that they may be wasted; rather, their discipline and proper use is the true means by which they are nourished and developed. This is why Islam has not taught that the faculties of virility be slaughtered completely or that the eye be gouged out. Instead, it teaches their proper use and the purification of one’s inner self. In this respect, Allah the

Exalted states:

ُ ْ َ َْ َ ‫ق ْد أفل َح ال ُم ْؤ ِمنوْ َن‬ “Surely, success does come to the believers.”

Then, after illustrating the life of a righteous person, God Almighty draws a conclusion in the followingُ words: َ ‫َوأول�ئ َك ُه ُم ال ْ ُم ْفل ُِح‬ ‫ون‬ ِ And it is they who shall prosper.

That is to say, those who tread the path of righteousness; those who believe in the unseen; those who establish or set upright their Prayer when it begins to fall as it were; those who give from that which is bestowed to them by God; those who, irrespective of their own thoughts and fancies, believe in all the divine scriptures sent by God, ultimately attain to the level of certainty. It is these very people who Continued on page 3

2

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History 28 June - 4 July

29 June 1931: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Musleh-e-Maudra arranged a gathering for extended family members in connection with the completion of the first reading of the Holy Quran by seven of his children. Huzoorra also wrote a poem for this occasion paying gratitude to Allah.

29 June 1938: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent his son, Mirza Mubarak Ahmad Sahib to Egypt so he could acquire knowledge of Arabic and excel his experience about agriculture from the land of Egypt.

30 June 1928: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra composed some 45 Arabic verses. This is quite possibly his first ever attempt at Arabic poetry.

July 1918: Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra was in Dalhousie. Huzoorra arrived on 22 June and returned to Qadian in August.

1 July 1931: The education of girls has always remained a salient feature of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat from its beginnings. On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra inaugurated the FA class for girls in Qadian.

1 July 1932: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was blessed with powerful and unique political knowledge. His acute observation benefited many in his era. On this day, Huzoorra guided the masses by saying that if they followed the Congress party’s call of civil disobedience in the days to come, it would harm their cause and daily life and the people of India would disturb their political cause.

1 July 1955: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a Friday Sermon in the Hague.

1 July 1964: On this day, a month-long Talim-ul-Quran class started in Rabwah.

2 July 1931: Hazrat Mirza Sultan Ahmad passed away. He was the eldest son of the Promised Messiahas. He remained obedient to his

Preparations in full swing for Jalsa Germany 2019

father but was not able to join the Jamaat until his final years, during the second Khilafat. Hazrat Mirza Sultan Ahmad was a civil servant and a recognised literary figure in poetry and prose with dozens of books to his name.

2 July 1934: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra announced the nikah of his son Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh. Huzoorra also announced the nikah of Hazrat Mirza Mansoor Ahmad, son of Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmadra. Huzoorra emphasised the importance and need of devoting lives for the cause of Islam, especially for members of the family of the Promised Messiahas.

2 July 1947: Hazrat Hafiz Qudratullah reached The Hague from London to establish the Ahmadiyya mission in the Netherlands.

He rented a room and began his assigned tasks.

2 July 1926: Hazrat Dr Khalifa Rashiduddinra passed away. He was a loyal and humble companion of the Promised Messiahas.

4 July 1932: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra set off on a journey towards Lahore and stayed there until 7 July.

4 July 1936: Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh arrived back in Qadian from London. Earlier, within a month of getting married, he left India and proceeded for postgraduate studies to England.

In England, he obtained a Master of Arts degree in Political Science, Philosophy and Economics from Balliol College, University of Oxford. Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh went back to England on 17 September to complete his studies.

4 July 1952: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra drew the attention of members of the Jamaat to practice patience and observe Salat to witness the manifestation of divine help.

Tahir Ahmed Bhatti Germany Correspondent

As we approach the dates for Jalsa Salana Germany, the preparations are surfacing and transforming into a giant event.

The frequency of meetings of different sections and departments of Jalsa is increasing and the headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Germany – BaitusSubuh, Frankfurt – is hosting a new team with every coming day.

The duties of accommodation, security, Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya, publication and external affairs are all practically visible and all offices are fully active in Jalsa arrangements.

MTA International Germany studios’ volunteers are busy day and night and instead of sleeping, the staff, both young and old, work diligently from the early hours of the morning till deep into the night.

Al Hakam spoke to Afsar Jalsa Salana, Continued from page 1

is only a mere brick within the colossal mansion of global tragedies constructed by humanity. Rifts between the rich and the poor are growing and climate change is another category that is aiding this gap in the society.

The Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa has pinpointed the upsetting consequences of disparity between rich and poor nations before the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs at the Netherlands National Parliament in 2015 saying: “In terms of international relations, a major source of conflict may well be the discrepancy between the rich and poor nations of the world.” However, addressing the solution, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa has, and continues to, underline the cause of these destructive “discrepancies” – the absence of justice.

An underlying theme throughout the UN report was the vital role and responsibility of governments in acting, consequently reducing suffering of the underprivileged.

Much of the current fiasco of global issues boils down to the responsibility of those in authority – wars, poverty, national health issues and economic downfalls can wholly or partly be side-stepped if those in power not merely act, but rather do so with absolute justice.

The importance of unqualified justice and freeing ourselves from the shackles of vested interests is the Quranic antidote to global

Mohammed Ilyas Majoka Sahib who is currently working between the Jalsa Gah at Karlsruhe and Baitus-Subuh, Frankfurt, organising arrangments for Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa arrival and the arrival of the thousands of guests of the Promised Messiahas.

He informed us that preparations are being made with an expected figure of around 40,000 participants. Alongside arrangements for Jalsa Salana, the arrival of Huzoor’saa entourage, their welcome, stay, mulaqats, security and many more issues must be meticulously taken care of and these of course require the finest level of precision and coordination.

Afsar Jalsa Salana said that he and his team are totally depending on the help and succour of Allah and the prayers of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.

This year, another challenging task ahead of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany is that normally, the Jamaat is given responsibility of the venue almost a week before the Jalsa dates. While the same is the case this year, however the main hall is being handed over to the Jalsa administration only 36 hours before Jalsa. Nonetheless, the teams in Germany are working hard to make things smooth on a minute by minute basis this year.

The local Jamaat is currently liaising with the local administration, security and fire brigade teams, for coordinating parking arrangements for over 4,000 vehicles.

As far as preparations and arrangements are concerned, we are aware of our weaknesses and limitations, however our sights are set on Allah, Whose support and help we witness every year, rather every day.

We eagerly anticipate welcoming our guests from different countries of the world and request the readers of Al Hakam to pray for a successful Jalsa. unrest Huzooraa has stressed for years on end.

Global warming will continue to destroy the bridge between the rich and poor and as Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa has expressed, advocacy for taking care of our planet is “an extremely precious and noble cause”.

Going “green” will most definitely aid in reducing the burden on poor nations, however, the same global cry we hear for climate change is needed for more critical issues at hand; addressing poverty head on, the global arms race, the chaos of wars and conflicts, the rise of nationalism, terrorism and the injustices by governments upon their populace.

A mere scan of the world’s news unearths the suffering, pain and destruction wars have caused throughout the world, especially in the Middle East. Yet the same cries and anguish in response to issues like climate change cannot be heard at a similar scale. Thus, as Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa has said, “On the one hand, we are trying to save the planet, yet with our other hand, we are senselessly destroying it.”

Global warming is another ingredient added to the cauldron of global unrest.

Nevertheless, for lasting peace we cannot turn a blind eye to the problems that deserve our prime attention and as Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa has stressed, “If we are to leave behind a legacy of hope for our children, and bequeath a peaceful world to our future generations, we, irrespective of our religion or beliefs, need to urgently change our priorities.”

3

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

From the Markaz

Mujeeb Ahmad Mirza Secretary Majlis-e-Sehat UK

M

ajlis-e-Sehat UK was able to host yet another successful International Masroor T20 Cricket Tournament from 18 to 23 June 2019.

The tournament started in 2009 and ever since, the tournament has been taking place every year in London. Many of these tournaments have been blessed with the presence of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, may Allah be his Helper.

Teams began to arrive on 16 June and the opening session took place on 18 June in Baitul Futuh Mosque in London. The inauguration was chaired by Amir Jamaat UK, Rafiq Ahmad Hayat Sahib. In his opening address, Amir Sahib spoke about the spirit of true sportsmanship and how we should always be obedient to the Jamaat and listen to and respect the management of the tournament.

This year, 22 teams participated in the tournament, with players travelling from many different parts of the world. The teams this year were AMJ XI, Australia, Australia A, Canada, Canada A, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Germany A, Holland, Ireland, Jamia UK, a team from the Middle East, Sweden, Omair XI, USA, USA A, United Kingdom, United Kingdom A and PAAMA. On 19 June, the group stage matches commenced and in total, 19 out of the 20 matches were played, with one match having to be cancelled due to heavy rainfall. The group matches went on until Friday 21 June and in total, 47 group matches were played.

On Saturday morning, 8 quarter finals were played. In the evening, players partook in the highlight of the tournament, which was the blessed opportunity for teams to have their pictures taken with their beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa and to have dinner in his presence. This was the climax and most anticipated part of the tournament.

On this day, the players also had the opportunity to pray Asr, Maghrib and Isha behind Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. This was the highlight this year for all the players that took part in the tournament.

On Sunday, 23 June the semi-finals and final were played after which the prize distribution ceremony took place. Amir Jamaat UK, Rafiq Hayat Sahib gave the

International Masroor T20 Cricket Tournament 2019

Winners of the International Masroor T20 Cricket Tournament, Canada with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

concluding remarks in which he reminded the players of the blessings of Khilafat and the unity which is achieved through unity at the hand of Khalifatul Masih.

We hope and pray that everyone who took part in this year’s tournament enjoyed the experience of not only taking part in a friendly competition between Ahmadi brothers but also gathering in the presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa and offering prayers behind him.

We look forward to the next International Masroor T20 Cricket Tournament. We request prayers for the management that we may be able to make this tournament bigger and better, Insha-Allah.

Results from this year’s tournament Quarter Finals: United Kingdom (176/8) V United Kingdom

A (158/10) USA A (126/10) V CANADA A (127/6) Omair XI (130/8) V Germany (134/9) Holland (153/9) V Australia A (134/10) Germany A (220/5) V France (98/6) Australia (131/8) V Canada (133/7) Finland (0/0) V Jamia UK (0/0) – Jamia Ahmadiyya UK was unable to attend due to exams AMJ XI (89/10) V USA (90/4) Plate Semi Finals: Germany A (101/10) V Canada A (59/10) Finland (153/3) V The Netherlands (123/10) Semi Finals: Germany (161/7) V UK (150/10) USA (125/8) V Canada (130/6) Plate Final: Germany A (108/8) V Finland (77/10)

Final: Canada (188/7) V Germany (143/10) Highlights in numbers: • 314 players • 12530 balls • 12341 runs • 763 wickets • 1029 fours • 457 sixers • 1302 wides • 99 no-balls • 40 half centuries • 347 catches • 76 runouts • 71 maidens • 154 ducks

Continued from page 1

are truly guided and who tread a path that goes on to lead a person to success.

Therefore, it is such people who are triumphant and who shall reach their final destination, and who have been delivered from the perils of the journey before them. Hence, from the very outset, Allah the Exalted has given us a teaching of righteousness and bestowed upon us a book, which also provides counsel on how to develop piety.

And so, let my community grieve, more than anything else, over whether they possess righteousness or not.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 34-35)

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

4 100 Years Ago...

A discussion with Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib Al Fazl, 1 July 1919

Hakim Khalil Ahmad Mumbai, India

K

hawaja [Kamaluddin] Sahib arrived at Bombay [now Mumbai] and stayed there for a week. He did not deliver any lecture during these days. Although he used to say that his mission no longer needed the support of Chanda [monetary funds], he privately appealed for Chanda on a number of occasions during his short stay. It is not known if he collected anything or not.

Apparently, Khawaja Sahib seemed healthy but he said that he was unwell.

The doctor had also prescribed him to sit aside and abandon all activities because of poor health.

In the given circumstances, Khawaja Sahib constantly complained about his health, so it was not easy to have a regular conversation with him and to have a detailed discussion on the issues of mutual dispute was all the more difficult.

However, this humble one met him twice in those days. We had incoherent discussions on the issues of mutual dispute; the incoherency was due to the fact that whenever the conversation would ensue, Khawaja Sahib would complain of suffering from extreme headaches and the conversation would have to be halted.

Either that or at times, someone would come to meet Khawaja Sahib and he would discontinue the ongoing discussion and begin to talk with that person. As a continuous coherent discussion was not held with Khawaja Sahib, therefore I was unable to comprehend the actual idea

behind his disputes with the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

Neither did Khawaja Sahib publicly announce his adherence towards a particular stance nor did he speak against it. So, we can say that in one manner Khawaja Sahib stands by the Lahori group while on the other hand, he stands against it. Therefore, Khawaja Sahib has even admitted on certain occasions that the Lahori Jamaat is also mistaken as is, according to him, the Qadiani Jamaat.

Below is the summary of Khawaja Sahib’s strange and unique discourse which was held during the discussion: 1. Speaking about the tabligh activities of Hazrat Mufti Sahib and Qazi Abdullah Sahib, Khawaja Sahib half-heartedly complemented the works of Qazi Abdullah Sahib while he expressed great displeasure regarding Mufti Sahib. He said: “It is not at all difficult in London to persuade someone to accept the prophethood of any person and it is a common practice that eminent persons are called prophets over there. For this reason, certain people even call me a messenger and a prophet. Therefore, it is rather insignificant if Mufti Sahib managed to persuade a few persons to accept the prophethood of Mirza Sahib.”

Perhaps Khawaja Sahib forgot to use the word “poison” during the course of the discussion and just because of the enmity which he had for respected Mufti Sahib, the same work which he previously considered as a deadly poison became a trivial matter.

2. Responding to the question as to why he refrained from mentioning [the name of] the Promised Messiahas in London, Khawaja Sahib gave two answers.

Firstly, he said, “Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib instructed me to only persuade [the ّ ٰ َّ ٰ َ people of] London to accept ‫لا اِل َہ اِلا اللہ‬ [There is none worthy of worship accept Allah], but we even manage to convince ّٰ ُ َ ٌ َ ُ them to accept ‫[ محَ ّمد ّر ُس ْول اللہ‬Muhammad is the messenger of Allah].”

Secondly, he said, “How could we mention [the name of] Mirza Sahib in London? Mentioning [his name] would require us to present his prophecies … but the people of London do not understand these matters.”

I replied, “Are you unaware of the manifest difference between the prophecies of prophets and nonprophets?” He said that he was aware of it but considered it inappropriate at that time.

I asked him, “What did you say about the Holy Prophetsa and how did you mention his name?” He said, “We do not even distinctly present Hazrat Muhammadsa. Islam is against any kind of distinction, therefore we mention [his name] in passing during discussions.

Thus, if we do not even present the Holy Prophetsa openly, how can we mention [the name of] Mirza Sahib?”

This humble one deduced from Khawaja Sahib’s discourse that either he lacks true faith in the prophecies of the Promised Messiahas or if he believes in them, then he is unaware of the difference between the prophecies of prophets and non-prophets. Yet if he is aware of it, then he lacks the courage to present them or he has been overawed by the soothsayers of London to the degree that he refrains from presenting even the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa. Keeping this in view, the way he persuaded people to believe in the existence of the Living and SelfSustaining God is surprisingly difficult to comprehend!

Khawaja Sahib would give lengthy answers and left very little time for me to ask questions, as a result of which he would refute some of his own previous statements in the extensive discourse.

3. During the discussion on Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya and its registered principles, Khawaja Sahib clearly admitted the fact that it was he who prepared its manuscript and the article was also his, and the Promised Messiahas just signed it. [He further said] that utilising all his abilities of law, he had deliberately prepared that manuscript so that the Anjuman could function exclusively and the series of successorship may not

advance.

4. Khawaja Sahib was asked as to why he denounced Khilafat when he had himself published an announcement on behalf of the Anjuman regarding Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira that the directives of Hazrat Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib would be worthy of acceptance as were that of the Promised Messiahas. In the same announcement, he urged people to take Bai‘at at the hand of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira? Answering this question, he replied that even he wanted Mian Sahib [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra] to become the Khalifa but Mian Sahib himself refused when people asked him.

I asked Khawaja Sahib, “What is the reason for not accepting Hazrat Mian Sahib as the Khalifa now?” He replied by saying, “I can have a conversation with you at another time perhaps. Currently, I am experiencing another extreme headache.”

5. Discussing the issue of prophethood, Khawaja Sahib said, “There is only a verbal dispute between the Jamaats of Lahore and Qadian [concerning prophethood].

The sense in which Mian Sahib [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra] considers Hazrat Mirza [Ghulam Ahmad] Sahib to be a prophet in his book Haqiqat-unNubuwwah [Reality of Prophethood], in short, is that a new Shariah [divine law] is not mandatory for prophethood and instead, receiving divine prophecies is a category of prophethood as well. Hence, the meanings in which Mian Sahib has declared Hazrat Mirza Sahib as a prophet in Haqiqat-un-Nubuwwah, we too consider Hazrat Mirza Sahib to be a prophet in that sense.”

Regarding Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib’s book Al-Nubuwwah fil-Islam [Prophethood in Islam], Khawaja Sahib said that Mualvi Muhammad Ali Sahib claimed that a new Shariah was mandatory for prophethood and making all efforts, he had only presented a single argument in his widely extensive book, i.e.

“And if there comes to you guidance from Me” [Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.39]) and interpreted “guidance” as a new Shariah.

Khawaja Sahib did not outright reject Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib’s book AlNubuwwah fil-Islam and its argument in plain words. However, he carried out the above-mentioned discussion in a tone which suggested his rejection. At that time, our friend Saith Ismail Sahib and Shah Muhammad Khan Sahib were also present. Khawaja Sahib said something peculiar during the discussion … He said that true faith denoted practice and the true meaning of belief could not be fulfilled if it lacked practice.

The conclusion which he drew from that discourse was that practice is a part of belief and the commandments of the Shariah must be practiced, therefore the person on whom it is mandatory to have one’s belief and whose denial makes one fall in the category of a non-believer, he should be a law-bearing prophet. Hearing Khawaja Sahib’s ingenious scholarly discussion reminded us of sihrun-mubin –

5

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM plain magic – about which people say that as Hazrat Mirza Sahib was not declared a magician by anybody, therefore he is not that prophet or “Ahmad” whose coming was foretold in (the verse): ْ َ ْ ‫اس ُم ُه أ ْح َم ُد‬ ‫يَأتِي ِم ْن بَ ْع ِدي‬ “He who will come after me, his name will be Ahmad.” (Surah al-Saff, Ch.61: V.7) I asked Khawaja Sahib, “As you have explained the wisdom behind the belief, please tell us the meaning of Shariah”, but he did not pay heed to our question. Then I asked him, “Is there a separate Shariah to have believe in God?” Khawaja Sahib replied: ّٰ ‫تخلقوا باخلاق اللہ‬ “Adopt the ways of God.” I then said, “What is meant by having belief in the Promised Messiahas and a mujadid [reformer]? Also, what is meant by believing in Jesusas, Mosesas, all other prophets, angels, hell, heaven and the Hereafter? Is there a separate Shariah of every prophet and is it mandatory for every prophet to have a new Shariah?”

Khawaja Sahib did not respond to this question and it was said that Khawaja Sahib’s headache began to worsen.

Our friend, Shah Muhammad Khan Sahib began to massage his head with oil and Khawaja Sahib lay down. I stayed seated in the hope of resuming the discussion after he recovered and in fact to have some more discussions on the issue of Khilafat.

Meanwhile, a person came to meet Khawaja Sahib. He got up and spoke with that person for a significant period of time. Fortunately, he did not experience any headache during that period. Despite having a long discourse, his condition continued to improve. As it was a Sunday and it was time for my lecture in the Ahmadiyya Hall, I left.

A peculiar trait was observed in Khawaja Sahib in that he saw the Jamaat of Qadian and the people of Lahore with the same lens. He does not mention the name of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat before non-Ahmadis at first. However, if he does mention it, then apart from saying that the Jamaat of Qadian is erroneous, he moves on to say that the people of Lahore are mistaken as well, meaning that both are treading the wrong path. In this manner, he responded to the respected non-Ahmadi who came to meet him in my presence.

In one way, I am grateful to Khawaja Sahib, but on the other hand, I am displeased; grateful in the sense that he acted with patience when he came across the name and mention of Hazrat Khaliftul Masih II and did not use any harsh words while talking with me, however I complain … on the grounds that Khawaja Sahib did not show tolerance when he came across the mention of Hazrat Mufti Sahib and, in fact, became furious.

(Translated by Al Hakam)

6th Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema Ireland

Shahzad Malik Ireland Correspondent

he Waqf-e-Nau department in Ireland T held its 6 annual Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema on Sunday, 16 June at Esker Educate th

Together National School, Dublin for both Waqifeen-e-Nau and Waqifaat-e-Nau. Preparations for the Ijtema began one month prior to the appointed date. Various departments were formed. A month prior to the Ijtema, the country’s secretary of Waqf-e-Nau presided over two meetings to allocate various tasks to the heads of these departments.

In addition to this, a letter requesting prayers for the success of the Ijtema was sent to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper.

In the late afternoon of Saturday, 15 June, many of the departments, along with their teams, diligently worked late into the night to set up the main hall and the classrooms that were going to be utilised throughout the day by both Waqifeen-eNau and Waqifaat-e-Nau. After registration and breakfast, which began at 9:30am, Dr Anwar Malik Sahib, National President of Jamaat Ireland, chaired the opening session that began at 10:30am with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Dr Adnan Ahmad Rana Sahib, followed by its English and Urdu translations. Thereafter Ruhaan Malik recited a few couplets from a nazm of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. This was followed by a clip from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa recent address at the UK Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema, delivered on Sunday 7 April, wherein Huzoor-e-Anwaraa drew the

attention of Waqifeen towards the rights due to Allah and the rights owed to humankind.

The proceedings of this session were also relayed in the Waqifaat area as well. This formal session ended at 11am with silent prayer led by the national president.

For the academic competitions, the Waqifeen-e-Nau were split into 4 groups comprising of ages 5-7, 8-10, 11-15 and 16+.

The academic competitions commenced at 11:15 which consisted of tilawat, nazm, English & Urdu speeches and Hifz-e-Quran. As two groups participated in their academic competitions, two groups simultaneously had their academic assessments conducted. The same pattern was used on the Waqifaat side. The academic competitions lasted until 1:15pm and was followed by a group discussion session.

This year, for the first time, a group discussion was held that was conducted by Ibrahim Noonan Sahib, Missionary In-charge Ireland. During this session, topics such as “What does the term Waqf mean?”, “Why was the Waqf-e-Nau scheme launched?”, “Professions for Waqifeen-e-Nau” and others were discussed. Alhamdolillah this session was enjoyed by all Waqifeen and proved beneficial in helping them to further understand the meaning of Waqf. This session finished at 2pm and was followed by Zuhr and Asr prayers and lunch.

At 3:30pm, a question & answer session was held. The panel consisted of Ireland Jamaat’s national president, missionary incharge and secretary for Waqf-e-Nau. Both the Waqifeen and Waqifaat asked many intriguing questions ranging from a variety of topics. This session was thoroughly enjoyed by all those present and finished at 4:45pm.

The concluding session began at 5:05pm which was again chaired by the national president. After the recitation of the Holy Quran and its English translation, an Urdu nazm was recited.

Thereafter, Rabeeb Mirza Sahib, National Secretary for Waqf-e-Nau presented the Ijtema Report. This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony, which was simultaneously held on the Waqifaat side.

After this, the national president delivered the concluding address wherein he quoted excerpts from the recent address of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa at the UK Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema.

He reminded Waqifeen-e-Nau over the age of 15 to fill their re-confirmation forms and also those who are working to constantly seek guidance from Hazrat

Amirul Momineenaa. He called upon all Waqifeen and Waqifaat to purchase the quarterly central Waqf-e-Nau magazines, Ismael and Maryam.

The concluding session ended with silent prayer led by the national president 5:30pm.

This was followed by a group photo.

The total attendance, including both the ladies and men’s side, was 102.

Apart from this, the recent Ismael and Maryam magazines, along with the newly published Waqf-e-Nau syllabus, were made available for purchase throughout the Ijtema.

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

6

Iqamatus-Salat (Observance of Prayer) Part I Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Missionary In-charge UK

he topic of iqamatus-salat – the observance of Salat – is based on T just two words, yet its subject matter

entails a diverse ocean of wisdom and understanding. These two words encompass a fundamental commandment of Allah the Exalted; in fact, they entail the purpose for mankind’s creation and the means of acquiring this purpose.

The first injunction for mankind mentioned in the Holy Quran is to worship Allah. Islam has made it compulsory for Muslims to observe a specified form of worship called Salat, one of the five pillars of Islam and a fundamental requirement of faith.

The topic of iqamatus-salat possesses a major significance in the life of a Muslim. It has been made the responsibility of every Muslim that they firmly act upon this commandment, enlightening themselves with its true understanding and fulfilling this purpose of their life, when they hear the call: ُ ْ َ ً َّ ْ َ ً َ َ ّ َ َ ْ ْ ُ َّ َ ْ ُ ْ ُ ْ َّ َ ُ َّ َ َ ‫ادخ ِل ْي ف ِ ْي‬ ‫اضية مر ِضية ف‬ ِ ‫يا أيتها النفس المطم ِئنة ار ِج ِعي إِلى ر ِب ِك َر‬ ّ ُ ‫ِع َبا ِد ْي َو ْادخ ِل ْي َجنتِ ْي‬ “Thou, O soul at peace! Return to thy Lord well pleased with Him and He well pleased with thee. So enter thou among my chosen servants, and enter thou My garden.” (Surah al-Fajr, Ch.89: V.28-31)

Significance of observing prayer The observance of prayer is a fundamental pillar of Islam, the fulfilment of which is obligatory upon every Muslim.

In the beginning of the Holy Quran, Allah says that true believing and virtuous people are those who “yuqimunas-salat” – observe prayer. (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.4) Later on in the Holy Quran, Allah emphatically states: ُ ُ َ َ َّ ُ ْ َ ْ ْ ْ ‫الصلَاة َولَا تكوْنوْا ِم َن ال ُمش ِرك ِي َن‬ ‫أقِيموا‬ “… observe prayer, and be not of those who associate partners with God.” (Surah al-Rum, Ch.30: V.32) On the day of resurrection, when the wrongdoers will be asked what led them to Hell, their answer shall be: ُ َ ّْ ْ ‫ل َ ْم نك ِم َن ال ُم َص ِلي َن‬ “…We were not of those who offered prayers.” (Surah al-Mudathir, Ch.74: V.44) In the sight of Allah the Exalted, beloved and accepted worshippers are those: َّ َ ‫ال ِذيْ َن ُه ْم َعلى َصلَا ِت ِه ْم َدائِ ُموْ َن‬ “…who are constant in their prayer.”

(Surah al-Ma‘arij, Ch.70: V.24) َ ‫ين ُه ْم في َصلَا ِته ْم َخاش ُع‬ َ ‫الَّ ِذ‬ ‫ون‬ ِ ِ ِ “Who are humble in their prayers.”

(Surah al-Muminun, Ch.23: V.3) َ ‫ين ُه ْم َع َلى َصلَا ِته ْم يُ َحافِ ُظ‬ َ ‫َوالَّ ِذ‬ ‫ون‬ ِ “And those who are strict in their observance of prayer.” (Surah al-Ma‘arij, Ch.70: V.35) Consistency in prayer, humility in prayer and the safeguarding of prayers are the fundamental pillars of iqamatussalat. Similarly, the offering of prayer in congregation and its timely observance, and the fulfilment of all the conditions with firm assiduousness are essential for the fulfilment of iqamatus-salat.

Regarding the consideration of time, the Quran states: ً ُ ْ َ َ َ َ َّ َّ ْ ‫الصلَاة كان ْت َعلى ال ُم ْؤ ِم ِني َن كِ َت ًابا َموْقوْتا‬ ‫ِإن‬ “…verily prayer is enjoined on the believers to be performed at fixed hours.”

(Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.104) With regard to the safeguarding of prayer, Allah the Almighty’s commandment is: ُ ْ َّ َ َ َ َّ َ َ ْ ُ َ ْ َ ّٰ ‫الصلَا ِة الوُ ْس ٰطى َوقوْ ُموْا لِل ِه قانِ ِتي َن‬ ‫ات و‬ ِ ‫حافِظوا على الصلو‬ “Watch over prayers, and the middle prayer, and stand before Allah submissively.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.239) In other words, the more engagements to which one is tied, the greater the significance becomes of observing prayers on time. Abandoning all other

engagements, granting precedence to the prayer and assembling for its observance on time is in actuality the true meaning of iqamatus-salat. This shall be the apparent expression of the oath which every Ahmadi Muslim, by the grace of Allah, undertakes; namely that “I shall give precedence to my faith over all worldly affairs.”

It is mentioned in a Hadith, “One who does not offer his prayers intentionally has committed infidelity” (Majma al-Zawaid, Kitab al-Salat) and in another Hadith, “On the day of resurrection, the first thing one shall be called to account for is the prayer” (Sunan al-Nisai, Kitab al-Salat).

Elsewhere in the Hadith, it is mentioned that the thing which separates a believer from an infidel is the observance of prayer. Furthermore, it is stated, “Salat is the pillar of religion.” (Shuab-ul-Iman, AlSalat) In other words, Salat is the foundation of Islam, without which the edifice of faith cannot remain erect.

The books of the Promised Messiahas are replete with resounding instructions pertinent to the observance of prayer.

For entrance into the Jamaat, in the ten conditions of Bai‘at (initiation) formulated by the Promised Messiahas, the third condition states that every individual who does Bai‘at: “Shall regularly offer the five daily Prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.”

Then the Promised Messiahas writes: “Whosoever does not observe the five daily prayers, is not of my community.”

(Noah’s Ark, p. 31) The Promised Messiahas further states: “Prayer is the Right of Allah; fulfil it well … Even if the entire house is destroyed, let it be, but do not discard the prayer. The Holy Quran speaks of two paradises, one of which is the paradise of this world, which is the prayer”. (Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 370) Significance of prayer The entire Holy Quran is full of the emphatic mention of prayer. Prayer possesses central significance in the prophetic traditions, the Sunnah and there is abundant mention of prayer in the Hadith of the Holy Prophetsa as well.

Benefitting from all three of these means of guidance, and becoming saturated by that fountain of knowledge and understanding, the beautiful manner in which the Promised Messiahas, the Imam of the Age, has mentioned prayer is a faith-inspiring exposition and one that should be pondered upon.

The Promised Messiahas has stated: “In reality, Salat is but a name for plunging into a fire, and after plunging into a fire of Divine love and fear of Allah, to burn one’s being and burn everything except Allah; and it is but a name for such a state wherein God, and only God remains in sight; and man progresses to such a state wherein he speaks when God wishes, and walks when God wishes; the whole of his moving or remaining still,

7

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

َ ْ َّ َ ّٰ ُ ُ َ َ ّ ‫يم‬ ِ ‫أعوذ ِبالل ِه ٰ ِمن الشیط‬ ِ ‫ان الر ِج‬ َ ٰ ْ َّ ّ ْ ّ ‫يم‬ ِ ‫ِبس ِم الل ِه الرحم ِـن الر ِح‬

ً ُ ْ َّ ً َ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ َّ َّ ‫ِإن الصلاة كانت على المؤ ِم ِنين كِتابا موقوتا‬ “Verily Prayer is enjoined on the believers to be performed at fixed hours” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.104)

his performing an action or abandoning an action begins to conform to Allah’s will and the ego is annihilated.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 314) The Promised Messiahas states on another occasion: “Prayer does not imply that prayer which is observed by the common people as a mere tradition, rather, prayer is that by which the heart of a person is tendered and falls before the Divine threshold becoming so immersed that it begins to melt”. (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 402 [new edition]) Then he states: “What is meant by prayer? It is a supplication that is humbly entreated by extolling His holiness [tasbih], praise [tahmid] and sanctity [taqdis], and seeking his forgiveness [istighfar], and by invoking salutations upon the Holy Prophet [Durood].” (Noah’s Ark, p. 110) Furthermore, the Promised Messiahas writes: “What is prayer? It is to present one’s humility and supplications and weaknesses before God and to desire the fulfilment of needs from Him; at times, to stand before Him respectfully, to pay homage to His magnificence and fulfil his commandments; at times, to fall before him in prostration with complete humility and modesty, to implore one’s needs from Him – this is Prayer. Just like a beggar, to praise Allah saying, ‘You are like so and you are like such and such.’ To express His magnificence and majesty and inducing His mercy, then imploring of Him.” (Al Hakam, 31 March 1903, pp. 7-8) He then states: “A prayer in which there is no humility, no attraction towards God the Exalted, no weeping supplication before God the Exalted, is in itself a deficient prayer.

Prayer is that in which one feels pleasure in supplication. Stand before God the Exalted with such attention that a state of

emotion overcomes you, as if an individual is detained in a dreadful lawsuit and a verdict of imprisonment or hanging is to be announced. What is his state before the judge? Similarly, one should stand before Allah with a fearful heart. A prayer in which the heart is at one place, while the thoughts are somewhere else, and the mouth says something, is a curse, which is thrown back in the face of man, and is not accepted. Allah the Almighty says: ُ ‫َفوَيْ ٌل لّ ِْل ُم َص ّلي ْ َن۔ الَّذيْ َن ُه ْم َع ْن َصلَاته ْم َس‬ ‫اهوْ َن‬ ِ ِ ِ​ِ ‘So woe to those who pray but are unmindful of their prayer [Surah alMa‘un, Ch.107: V.5-6].’ True prayer is that which feels pleasurable. It is this very prayer, in the description of which, it has been said that prayer is the spiritual apex – Mi‘raj – of a believer. Prayer is the means of spiritual progress for a believer.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 5, pp. 44-45 [new edition]) True meaning of iqamatus-salat The phrase used in the Holy Quran for the observance of prayer is iqamatus-salat.

This phraseology has not been used in the

Holy Quran merely once or twice; rather, it has been used 47 times, by which one can fathom its significance and greatness.

The word “iqamah” is a complete and eloquent word that houses a world of meanings.

In Tafsir-e-Kabir, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, the Second Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, has mentioned various meanings of Iqamatus-Salah: 1. Regular observance of prayer “The meaning of iqamatus-salat is to observe prayer regularly because the meaning of Qama ‘alal amri means to remain constant in something. Therefore, the meaning of yuqimunas-salat would be that ‘they do not desist in offering their prayers’. A prayer wherein there is a discontinuation is not considered true prayer in Islam, because prayer is not of temporary deeds, rather, it is considered a complete deed if there is no cessation from the first prayer after repentance or after reaching an age of maturity, until the last prayer before one’s demise. All

the prayers of those people who tend to miss their prayers in between are rejected.

Therefore, it is the obligation of every Muslim that when they reach an age of maturity, or when Allah enables them to do so, from that time until their demise, they should not miss a single prayer, because prayer is equivalent to meeting Allah, and he who refrains from meeting his beloved, passes a judgement contrary to his so-called claim of love by himself.”

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, p. 104) 2. Observance along with the fulfilment of all requirements “The second meaning of iqamah is of equilibrium and rectitude, i.e., the virtuous offer their prayers according to its apparent conditions, and do not break the rules set for it. For example, in a state of health or in the availability of water, they offer their prayers after performing ablution, and even then, they perform their ablution properly according to the conditions set by the Shariah. Similarly, they offer their prayers Continued on page 8

8

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

Regional auxiliary Ijtemas held in Kenya Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

n Saturday, 15 June 2019, Lajna O Imaillah Nakuru Region in Kenya held their regional Ijtema at their

regional headquarters in Nakuru, while Majlis Ansarullah Kenya Coast B region successfully held their regional Ijtema.

The programme was well arranged by the team, which was led by Regional President Rehema Noor Sahiba. In attendance were National Sadr Lajna Khadija Juma Sahiba and National Sports Secretary Faiza Abdallah Sahiba.

The opening session for the Ijtema started around 10am in the morning with tilawat by Samra Surayya Sahiba followed

by Lajna pledge by National Sadr. This was followed by an Urdu poem read by Soziah Nasir Sahiba.

The opening speech was delivered by Regional Sadr, Rehema Noor Sahiba, where she welcomed all attendees to the Ijtema and urged all members in attendance to take this opportunity and gain all blessings vouchsafed in the Ijtema and also to fully participate in the Ijtema programmes and competitions. Thereafter, competitions started including Hifz-e-Quran, tilawat, speech and nazm. A question and answer session on Islam and the history of Ahmadiyyat was also conducted.

For the sports competitions, all members gathered in the field and participated in various games.

Thereafter, all members gathered in the mosque for the closing session, which began with tilawat by Idriss Sahiba followed by the closing speech by the national president.

In her speech, she encouraged Lajna to organise and hold meetings regularly and send monthly reports. All winners in different competitions were awarded prizes this session. The Ijtema came to a successful close with dua led by the national president.

Attendance was 10 Lajna and 12 Nasirat.

On the same day, Majlis Ansarullah’s one-day event began approximately at 11am with the recitation of the Holy Quran

delivered by Jureji Suleiman Sahib followed by the Ansar pledge by Regional Nazim-eAla Hassan Esalano Sahib. A poem was then recited by Hamza Omar Sahib.

The Ijtema was chaired by National Sadr Ansarullah Sameer Sheikh Sahib, who welcomed members to the Ijtema and urged them to fully participate and be attentive to every speech and all announcements.

He called upon Twalib Zubeir Sahib to deliver the first speech of the Ijtema, which was on the importance of financial sacrifice. In his speech, he stated that the Jamaat is a non-profit organization, hence its finance solely depends on Chanda and other sacrifices. Therefore, it is our duty as followers of the Promised Messiahas to act upon this call of the Imam of the age and fulfill our pledges.

The second speech presented by Jureji Suleiman Sahib was about the importance of prayer in the life of an Ahmadi. He said that as followers of the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas, it is our duty to be mindful of our daily prayers and every Ansar member should inculcate the same habit within their children and family as a whole.

This was followed by tilawat, Hifze-Quran, Salat and adhan competition.

Sports competitions were also conducted, including 100-metre race.

The Ijtema came to a close with the final session in which prizes were distributed by the National President of Majlis Ansarullah, Sameer Sheikh Sahib.

He delivered the concluding remarks in which he reminded members to adhere to the five daily prayers to which Huzooraa repeatedly guides us. He said that Ansar should try their best to offer prayers in congregation and be regular in reciting the Holy Quran. He also urged members to constantly listen to the Friday Sermons of our Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa on MTA and other sessions. Lastly, he urged all members not to forget to fulfill their obligations as Ansarullah. The Ijtema ended with silent prayer.

Continued from page 7

at the appointed time, and perform the actions of qiyam, ruku, sajdah and qa‘dah correctly. They recite the appointed passages and prayers upon their proper place properly and correctly. Therefore, they pay consideration to all the apparent conditions and fulfil them properly.

“At this place, it should be remembered that although the Shariah states that the prayer should be offered with its set conditions, this does not mean that when the fulfilment of these conditions is not possible in extreme circumstances, one should abandon the prayer altogether.

The prayer itself is in any case precedent to the conditions. If someone does not have clean clothes, they may offer their prayers in dirty clothes, and especially, to abandon the prayer on the basis of suspicion is completely illogical … Until the fulfilment of the conditions is possible, to disregard them is a sin. However, when it is impossible to fulfil the conditions, to abandon prayer due to their unavailability is a sin, and such a person shall not be considered excused, rather they shall be considered those who abandon the prayer.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, p. 104) 3. To erect a falling prayer “The third meaning of iqamah is to keep something upright, i.e. the worshipper does not let their prayer fall. They remain forever adamant in offering their prayer correctly and as per the stipulated conditions. If in one’s prayer, someone … is assailed by thoughts of difficulty, they should not be dismayed and should not consider their prayers useless, because Allah the Exalted only expects sacrifice from His servant to the extent of their capacity. Therefore, those worshippers whose thoughts remain dispersed, if they continue to try and beautify their prayers and remain attentive, they will be striving to keep their prayer upright whenever it stumbles. Allah the Exalted shall not waste their prayers, rather He shall accept them and shall include one who endeavours to erect their prayer among the virtuous.”

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol.1, p. 105) 4. To encourage and motivate others for prayer

“Another meaning of ‘yuqimunas-salat’ is that the virtuous encourage others to pray, because one manner in which to erect something is to make it common and to encourage others to it. Therefore, the virtuous who act upon yuqimunassalat are those who, in addition to praying themselves, keep instructing others to pray as well, and make those who are negligent prompt and vigilant.” (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol.1, p. 105) 5. Prayer in congregation “Wherever the Holy Quran has enjoined prayer, it has instructed for prayer to be offered in congregation. Nowhere is it ordered that one simply offers prayers alone. It is evident therefore that prayer in congregation is a significant principle of faith, rather the Holy Quran … states that prayer is only observed correctly if offered in congregation, unless there is an uncontrollable restraint. As such, an individual who abandons prayer in congregation, except in the case that they are ill, out of town or other Muslims are not present, even if they offer their prayer at home, it shall not be accepted, and they shall be considered as one who abandons the prayer.

“In the Holy Quran … the actual instruction is that the compulsory prayers be offered in congregation, and prayer in solitude is permitted only under extreme circumstances. If one cannot offer the prayers standing, they are permitted to do so whilst sitting. However, just as if someone who possesses the ability to stand and pray but does so whilst sitting, they shall be considered a sinner, similarly, one who can offer the prayer in congregation, but does not offer their prayer in congregation, they too shall be considered a sinner.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, pp. 105-106) 6. To offer prayer with complete attention, togetherness and vigilance “Another meaning of ‘yuqimunas-salat’ is also that the prayer be offered in a lively manner and with vigilance, because thoughts are dispersed as a result of laziness and negligence, and the essence of prayer is lost.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol.1, p.

106)

9

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

Modern technology for the service and propagation of Islam Aisha Ahmad Ontario, Canada

said in the Holy Quran: Iwitht is the “He it is Who has sent His Messenger guidance and the Religion of

truth, that He may cause it to prevail over all religions, even if those who associate partners with God hate it”. (Surah al-Saff, Ch.61: V.10) Technology in the modern age has evolved in leaps and bounds providing mankind with platforms as were never thought of before.

This revolution in civilisation that started from the basic invention of the telephone allowing for the communication of humans across long distances has become increasingly expanded to the point where, at the click of a button, whole messages can be transmitted across the entire world in a matter of seconds.

With such an advancement, one wonders concerning the reason for such rapid technological evolution in the past few years. What purpose does this technology maintain in the modern day and age?

Islam explains the role of technology in the current age as a medium through which it will be propagated and prevail over all other religions of the world.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was entrusted with two important tasks: the perfection of the guidance and the completion of the propagation of that

guidance.

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas declared that the second task was to be fulfilled in his time and after him, through his community. He said: “It should be borne in mind … The perfection of guidance from every aspect took place through [the Holy Prophet’ssa] first advent, and the completion of the propagation of guidance was accomplished through his second advent … This makes it clear that he will have a second advent … [that] is now taking place. Thus, this is the time of the completion of the propagation of guidance … Therefore, these advancements are in fact the advancements of the Holy Prophetsa because through them, the second part of the excellence of his perfect guidance is being completed.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 10) In the years leading up to the appearance of the Promised Messiahas, the Industrial Revolution was well underway. It was a period of great technological development which began in the middle of the 18th century and stretched as far as the mid1800s.

This industrial revolution took place at such a rapid pace, with such inexplicable and unimaginable technological creations that it seems to have been done in quick preparation for a great transformation of the world. Within a century, the living standards of the masses had undergone a complete change to a level as had never been

“...These advancements are in fact the advancements of the Holy Prophetsa because through them, the second part of the excellence of his perfect guidance is being completed.”

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas)

attained before.

The connection between the age of technological advancement and the advent of the Promised Messiahas is staggering and cannot be ignored. The Promised Messiahas once commented, “It is a matter of principle that whenever a messenger appears in the world, all great world events and revolutions that take place in his time are attributed to his advent.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 9, p. 366) These innovations were put in place by God Almighty so that the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa would attain fulfilment as he had declared: “The Hour [i.e. Judgment Day] will not come until time draws near and a year becomes like a month, a month like a week, a week like a day, a day like an hour, and an hour like a burning piece of wood” (Jami‘ alTirmidhi, Kitab al-Zuhd an Rasulillahsa) Indeed, by way of trains, airplanes, cars, telegraphs, postal services and printing presses, the world has become a global village, making it possible to spread the teachings of Islam throughout the world with unprecedented ease.

The Promised Messiahas wrote: “O ye who yearn and thirst for truth, listen! … God has Himself provided the means for fulfilling His prophecy that the message of the Messiah will spread in the world like lightening and will encompass all four corners of the earth like the light from a tower. The railways, telegraph, steamships, excellent postal services, easy modes of travel and tourism and other such means have been established to fulfill the prophecy that the message of the Messiah will illuminate every corner like lightening.

The true nature of the tower of the Messiah that is mentioned in the Ahadith is that the Messiah’s invitation and message will spread on this earth very quickly just as light or sound from a tower reaches far.” (The British Government and Jihad, p. 18) The Promised Messiahas was in constant interaction with technology and considered all new innovations to be stepping stones through which he could convey the message of God to mankind.

One of the greatest technological advancements was the invention of the printing press which made the production and spreading of books more efficient and easy, since scribes were no longer required

to meticulously handwrite every book.

Another invention of great significance of the Promised Messiah’sas era was the camera that, according to Hazrat Ahmadas, allowed people of Western origin to “… estimate the level of one’s spiritual prowess … The reason I had my picture taken was to benefit from this medium in calling others towards Islam”. (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 364365) The phonograph was a device which recorded and reproduced sounds. This machine quickly gained fame and when it arrived in India, the Promised Messiahas was highly enthusiastic about this invention, remarking : “Up until now, this phonograph has only been used for fun, but in actuality, God has kept this invention for us and great tasks will be carried out through it.” (Al Hakam, 10 November 1901, p. 4) The advancement of technology has provided us such tools and gadgets that we can watch MTA according to our own convenience, wherever we want, whenever we want.

In his Friday Sermon of 11 November 2016, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated: “MTA is a medium to connect the Jamaat with Khilafat” And, in our age, technology has become even more advanced in the abundance of resources available for the propagation of Islam. Platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Twitter allow for the spread of Islam by merely liking or sharing a certain saying of the Promised Messiahas or his Khulafa. Through resources such as the Al Islam, Al Hakam and the Review of Religions websites, answers to allegations against the Islamic philosophy may be found in as simple an act as typing the question into the search bars.

Hence, technology has become very easy to garner our interests. This era of technological advancement provides the Promised Messiahas and his community with the necessary tools by which to propagate the message of Islam to the corners of the world.

May Allah enable us all to understand the importance and means of the proper use of modern day technology in order to bring about the victory of Islam. Amin.

10

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM Responding to Allegations

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas – Part XIII

Verbal claim of Bai‘at is not enough “Our Jamaat must not adhere to mere verbal claims alone and should not be satisfied on simply taking the pledge of Bai‘at. Instead, they should bring a [positive] change in themselves. Ponder over the fact that the army of Mosesas was affected by the outbreak of plague on various occasions. The enemies must have rejoiced but Mosesas would have been deeply affected by the situation. It is written [in the books of history] that the epidemic claimed 80,000 lives due to the curse of Balam. Although many others were sinful as well but the followers of Mosesas were dually responsible. Very few people purify their hearts.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, pp. 68-69) Referring to the above-mentioned extract, the opponents of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas suggest that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat pointed out on 31 October 1902 that it might be possible that members of the Jamaat pass away in greater numbers as compared to others [due to the outbreak of plague].

The aforementioned excerpt of the Promised Messiahas clearly shows that he said nothing of the sort. Certainly, he is guiding members of the Jamaat to produce a righteous change in themselves, as was the practice of earlier prophets. Hence, Allah the Almighty has declared in the Holy Quran: ََُّ ‫ِيه ْم‬ ِ ‫ويزك‬ “And he [the prophet] purifies them” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.165). This has been declared as an integral task from among the responsibilities of the Holy Prophetsa. At another place, Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: َّ َ َ َْ َ ‫ق ْد أفل َح َم ْن ت َزكى‬ “Verily, he truly prospers who purifies himself.” (Surah al-A‘la, Ch.87: V.15) Here, it should be noted that the achievement of true prosperity has not been linked with the simple pledge of Bai‘at.

Examining the accounts of earlier prophets mentioned in the Holy Quran, we find that every prophet advises his nation to be remorseful and seek forgiveness. Hence, it is stated in the Holy Quran regarding prophets Noahas, Hudas, Salehas, Lotas and Shuaibas that they directed their people by saying:

َ ّٰ ُ َّ َ ْ َ ُ ّ ‫ِإنِي لَك ْم َر ُسوْ ٌل أ ِمي ٌن ۔ فاتقوا الل َه َوأ ِط ْي ُعوْ ِن‬ “Surely, I am to you a Messenger, entirely trustworthy. So fear Allah and obey me.” (Surah al-Shuara, Ch.2: V.144145) In the same manner, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat guided members of his Jamaat to strive towards virtuous development.

Giving the example of the spread of plague in the followers of Mosesas, Hazrat Ahmadas elucidated the fact that even the believers of a prophet could suffer a torment if they refrained from acting upon the teachings sent by Allah

the Almighty, as it is stated in the Holy Quran: َّ َ ّ ً ْ ْ ُ َ َ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ ُ‫الس َما ِء ب َما كَانُوْا يَ ْف ُسق‬ ‫ون‬ ‫فأنزلنا على ال ِذين ظلموا رِجزا ِمن‬ ِ “So We sent down upon the transgressors a punishment from heaven, because they were disobedient.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.60) Pondering over the Holy Quran, we come to know that simply performing the Bai‘at is not enough for salvation. In fact, it is the first step towards faith. Hence, Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: ُ َ َ َ َ ُ ُ ُ ُ َّ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ‫آمنا ۖ ق ْل ل ْم ت ْؤ ِمنوْا َولٰ ِك ْن قوْلوْا أ ْسل ْمنا َول َ ّما يَ ْدخ ِل‬ ‫قال ِت الأعراب‬

“Our Jamaat must not adhere to mere verbal claims alone and should not be satisfied on simply taking the pledge of Bai‘at. Instead, they should bring a [positive] change in themselves.

Ponder over the fact that the army of Mosesas was affected by the outbreak of plague on various occasions. The enemies must have rejoiced but Mosesas would have been deeply affected by the situation. It is written [in the books of history] that the epidemic claimed 80,000 lives due to the curse of Balam. Although many others were sinful as well but the followers of Mosesas were dually responsible. Very few people purify their hearts.”

11

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

“My Ummah will also experience an age of evil ... Hold fast to the Jamaat of Muslims and their Imam.” ُ ُ​ُ ُ َْ ْ ‫ان ف ِ ْي قلوْ ِبك ْم‬ ‫ال ِإيم‬ “The Arabs of the desert say, ‘We believe.’ Say, ‘You have not believed yet; but rather say, we have accepted Islam for the true belief has not yet entered into your hearts.’” (Surah al-Hujurat, Ch.49: V.15) Accordingly, the Promised Messiahas said: “Our Jamaat must not adhere to mere verbal claims alone and should not be satisfied on simply taking the pledge of Bai‘at.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, pp. 68-69) The opponents move on to cite another extract of the Promised Messiahas, dated 25 November 1902, and assert that it contradicts his earlier statement. Below is the exact quotation of the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat which is pointed out by opponents: “The [present] plague epidemic has not come as a disease. It has only appeared to reform people. You should not correct yourselves from [the fear of] its chastisement, but instead, reform yourselves for the sake of Allah the Almighty, so that you stay free of Shirk [attributing partners to Allah]. Certain people raise the objection that it [the plague] only takes the lives of the poor.

It is another kind of helplessness. Instead of learning a lesson, they object. Several others say that it is a mere disease therefore it has nothing to do with worship, fasting, good and bad deeds, and that one should get it treated from doctors. Hence, recklessness has gone beyond imagination. However, the plague is a mirror of God through which He shall manifest himself.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 233) The above-mentioned excerpt clearly shows that the opponents have shot an arrow in the dark as there is not the slightest contradiction between this statement of the Promised Messiahas and the one mentioned at the start. Moreover, if the opponents had really found any kind of contradiction, it was their responsibility to point it out. On the contrary, they have deceitfully presented a statement of the Promised Messiahas in their own words and simply said that it contradicts his earlier statement. This indicates that they have nothing to support their argument.

Referring to the same extract, opponents suggest that these “contradictory” statements of the Promised Messiahas threw the Ahmadiyya Jamaat into confusion and disorganised it soon after the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. Even within his lifetime, they suggest, dissensions began to take root.

Allah the Almighty lays down a key principle to understand the matters of faith. He states in the Holy Quran: َ َْْ ُ ّ ٌ َ ْ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ ‫اب‬ ِ ‫لقد كان فِي قص ِص ِهم ِعبرة لِأولِي الألب‬

“Assuredly, in their [prophets’] narrative there is a lesson for men” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.112). It means that every matter should be resolved in light of the accounts of prophets. If it is in accordance with the instances of prophets, it is to be considered correct, and if it is against them, it is false.

The opponents have levelled this allegation out of spite because the one who is divinely commissioned cannot be held responsible for the issues that caused dissensions in his Jamaat after his demise.

If the objection is considered true, then every prophet would come under its impact. God forbid, it would hugely affect the most dignified and innocent soul of the Holy Prophetsa as his Ummah has been divided into countless sects. Even today, Muslims are killing each other due to their mutual disputes and every sect is a vivid testimony of: َ ُ ‫ك ُّل ح ِْز ٍب ِب َما ل َ َديْ ِه ْم ف ِر ُحوْ َن‬ “Every party is rejoicing in what they have” (Surah al-Rum, Ch.30: V.33). The same is the case of earlier prophets.

Is it rational and logical to hold Mosesas and Jesusas accountable for their peoples being divided into various sects?

Certain issues led to dissension in the Jamaat after the demise of the Promised Messiahas but the seeker of truth can easily decide between right and wrong by witnessing that group which is blessed

with divine succour. Moreover, one can easily observe that Jamaat which is a living testimony of the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa and the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat regarding the revival of Islam and Khilafat on the precepts of prophethood. However, only that person can recognise this fact who is free from enmity and follows the guidance laid down by the Holy Prophetsa in the following Hadith: Hazrat Huzayfa bin al-Yamanra narrates, “I asked the Holy Prophetsa, ‘Will there be a period of evil upon our Ummah?’ to which he replied, ‘Yes, my Ummah will also experience an age of evil.’ Then I asked, ‘What do you instruct me to do if such an evil period comes upon our Ummah?’ He said, ‘Hold fast to the Jamaat of Muslims and their Imam.’ I said, ‘What if there is neither a Jamaat of Muslims nor an Imam?’ He replied, ‘Then turn away from all those sects even if you have to bite [eat] at the roots of a tree till death overtakes you in that state.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Fitan) In the above-mentioned Hadith, the Holy Prophetsa guides us to side with that Jamaat of Muslims which is being led by an imam who is selected by Allah the Almighty. Certainly, a mere scholar or an imam of a mosque is not meant by this Imam, but only a prophet or a khalifa could be considered that Imam.

There is only one group or Jamaat that openly declares their Khalifa to be elected

by God and that he is the successor of the Promised Messiahas who was a prophet of God. Hence, if a person seeks the truth, they must hold fast to the Imam of the age.

However, if they are unable to identify that Imam foretold in the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa, they should turn away from every other sect even if they have to survive by eating the roots of a tree till death overtakes them while they are in that state, otherwise they would be considered an opponent of the Holy Prophetsa.

Mentioning the same extract under discussion, the opponents point out that the Promised Messiahas considered the treatment of plague to be reckless and haughty. The original statement of the Promised Messiahas cited earlier surely denies these false assertions. On the other hand, he had commended the treatment of plague provided by the government.

Hazrat Ahmadas states: “There is no denying that this remedy [for plague] has proven to be effective.”

(Noah’s Ark, p. 2) The Promised Messiahas considered the attitude of those as reckless and haughty who said that it was a mere disease and therefore, instead of focusing on worship, fasting, good and bad deeds etc., one should get it treated from doctors.

“The [present] plague epidemic has not come as a disease. It has only appeared to reform the people. You should not correct yourselves from [the fear of] its chastisement, but instead, reform yourselves for the sake of Allah the Almighty, so that you stay free of Shirk [attributing partners to Allah]. Certain people raise the objection that it [the plague] only takes the lives of the poor. It is another kind of helplessness. Instead of learning a lesson, they object. Several others say that it is a mere disease therefore it has nothing to do with worship, fasting, good and bad deeds, and that one should get it treated from doctors. Hence, recklessness has gone beyond imagination. However, the plague is a mirror of God through which He shall manifest himself.”

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

12

Friday Sermon 31 May 2019

The Significance of Jumuah Prayers After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa recited verses 10-12 of Surah al-Jumuah, after which he commenced with the Sermon:

ۡ َّ َ ۡ ُ َ ۤۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َّ َ ُّ َ ٰۤ ۡ ‫ِلص ٰلو ِۃ ِم ۡن ّیَوۡم ال ۡ ُج ُم َع ِۃ َف‬ ‫اس َعوۡا ِالٰی ِذکر‬ ‫یایہا الذین امنوا ِاذا نو ِدی ل‬ ُ ِ ٰ َّ َ ُ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ِ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ ۡ ُ َّ ٌ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ٰ َ ۡ َ ۡ ِ ُ َ َ ّٰ ‫الصلوۃ‬ ‫الل ِہ و ذروا البیع ؕ ذل ِکم خیر لکم ان کنتم تعلمون۔ فاذا قضیت‬ ُ َ ّ َ ّ ِ ۡ َِ ّ ٰ ِ ُ ۡ ّ ٰ ۡ َ ِ ُ ۡ َ َ ‫فان َت ِش ُر ۡوا فِی الۡا ۡر‬ ‫ض َو ۡاب َتغوۡا ِم ۡن ف ُض ِل الل ِہ َو اذک ُروا الل َہ ک ِثی ًرا ل َعلک ۡم‬ َۡ َ ۡ ُ ً َ َ ۡ ُ َ َ َ َ ۡ َ ۤۡ ّ َ ۡ ۨ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ً َ َ ِ ۡ َ َ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ‫تف ِلحون۔ وٰ ِاذا راوا ِتجار َۃ او لہوا انفضوا ِالیہا و ٰترکوک قٓائِما ؕ قل ما ِعند‬ ۡ ّٰ ُ ۡ َ ُ ّ َ َ َ ّ َ َ ۡ ّ َ ّ ٌ ۡ َ ّ ‫التجار ِۃ ؕ و اللہ خیر‬ ‫الرزِقِی َن۔‬ ِ ‫الل ِہ خیر ِمن اللہ ِو و ِمن‬ The translation of these verses is as follows: “O ye who believe! when the call is made for Prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off all business. That is better for you, if you only knew. And when the Prayer is finished, then disperse in the land and seek of Allah’s grace, and remember Allah much, that you may prosper. But when they see some merchandise or some amusement, they break up for it, and leave thee standing.

Say, ‘That which is with Allah is better than amusement and merchandise, and Allah is the Best Provider.’” (Surah al-Jumuah, Ch.62: V.10-12) Today is the last Friday of this Ramadan.

As it is usually the case, people are generally more inclined and pay special attention towards attending this Friday Sermon.

Coincidentally, the majority of schools are on term break and hence, we can see an increased attendance as is generally the case.

The verses that I have recited are from the last ruku‘ of Surah al-Jumuah. In these

verses, God Almighty has clearly explained the significance of the Friday prayers. Thus, in the sight of God Almighty, attending the Friday prayers is of vital importance.

God Almighty has clearly stated that when one is called for the Friday prayer, then one should not show any sort of listlessness. Rather, one ought to pay heed immediately and attend the Friday prayer, regardless of how busy one may be. Even if it is the peak business hour, whereby neglecting the business affairs and trade can result in a loss of millions for a businessman, one should not care about it

and should attend the Friday prayers. This is because going to the central mosque to attend the Friday prayers and listening to the Friday sermon of the imam is hundreds of thousands of times better than one’s trade, businesses and other worldly affairs. However, only such an individual can realise this, who truly understands its importance.

God Almighty states that one who truly understands its true significance would certainly consider these trades and businesses of secondary importance. At the same time, God Almighty also states

God Almighty has clearly stated that when one is called for the Friday prayer, then one should not show any sort of listlessness.

Rather, one ought to pay heed immediately and attend the Friday prayer, regardless of how busy one may be. Even if it is the peak business hour, whereby neglecting the business affairs and trade can result in a loss of millions for a businessman, one should not care about it and should attend the Friday prayers.

that one is free to go about their affairs after the Friday prayers. He states that by all means, one can go and see to their worldly affairs and businesses and that He will grant them His blessings. However, He also makes clear that one should not restrict their worship merely to the Friday prayers, rather one should remember God Almighty at all times.

One should remain focused on the remembrance of God Almighty, as a result of which one will be granted with greater success than before – religiously, spiritually as well as worldly. Those who remember God Almighty, they are also mindful of the fact that following the Friday prayer, they have to offer the Asr prayer as well, as this is also among their obligations. Similarly, they are mindful of the fact that they have to offer Maghrib and Isha prayers as these are also among their obligations. Both worldly affairs and other blessings are acquired through the grace of God Almighty alone. Thus, prosperity is interlinked with the remembrance and worship of God Almighty. Trying to offer the Friday prayer with regularity, remembering God Almighty and fulfilling the due rights of His worship should not be limited to the month of Ramadan alone, rather, as it is evident from these verses, this is a general command relating to every Friday prayer.

The verse contains a general instruction as well as a specific instruction.

While mentioning the importance of the Friday prayer, on one occasion the Promised Messiahas states that Friday is a day of Eid, and this Eid is far greater than the other Eid celebrations. With regard to how it is superior, the Promised Messiahas states that Surah al-Jumuah has been revealed for this Eid. That is, particular attention has been drawn towards offering Friday prayers in Surah al-Jumuah. Furthermore, whilst stating the importance of Friday prayers, the Promised Messiahas has also mentioned a conversation between Hazrat Umarra and a Jewish man. The incident is as follows that when the verse:

13

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

One should remain focused on the remembrance of God Almighty, as a result of which one will be granted with greater success than before – religiously, spiritually as well as worldly. ُ َ ُ ۡ ۡ َ َۡ ‫ال َیوۡ َم اک َمل ُت لَک ۡم ِدیۡنک ۡم‬ “This day have I perfected for you your religion”, was revealed, a Jew said that the Muslims ought to celebrate Eid on the day this verse was revealed; or he said that if this verse was revealed to us, we would have celebrated Eid. Hazrat Umarra replied that Friday is a day of Eid as this verse was revealed on a Friday.

The Promised Messiahas states that many people are unaware of the true essence of this Eid. (Malfuzat, Vol. 8, p. 399) God Almighty has enjoined to celebrate this Eid every week. It contains within it glad tidings of faith having been perfected and the completion of the favours of God Almighty. This day is not given its due importance and people simply believe that by making particular efforts to attend the last Friday prayer of Ramadan, they will attain the reward of every Friday prayer. Hence, we must be very mindful of safeguarding our Friday prayers. We must give the same importance to each and every Friday prayer throughout the year as we give to the last Friday prayer of Ramadan.

God Almighty says that every true believer should pay attention towards this.

However, in reality many people do not pay attention towards this and they waste their Friday prayers for the sake of worldly affairs and materialistic pursuits. God Almighty has stated that one should know that whatever is with God Almighty is far greater than these material objects, wealth and one’s worldly pursuits. Furthermore, it is God Almighty alone Who grants man provisions. Hence, this is a matter of great importance and one that every believer should pay attention towards. We in particular, who believe in the Imam of the age, must pay special attention towards this.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira would say that Ahmadis are in fact true believers, as Ahmadis have accepted the Imam of the age. (Haqaiq-ul-Furqan, Vol. 4, pp. 122123) Hence, this belief places a responsibility on us to align our actions in accordance with the teaching of God Almighty as well as to try and obey His commands. Worldly desires should not be our preferences, rather, the pleasure of God Almighty and acquiring His pleasure should be our preference. However, there are many among us who tend to forget the reason why they have accepted the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas was sent to strengthen our relationship with God Almighty. He appeared in order to make us understand that one’s ultimate objective should be to attain the pleasure and love of God Almighty. It should not be the case

that one should only pray to God Almighty, supplicate and prostrate before Him when one’s worldly desires are not being fulfilled.

Moreover, it should also not be the case that one is unmindful of the importance of attaining the pleasure of God Almighty and only gives preference to their desires and worldly needs.

At one place the Promised Messiahas states: “I say truly that the Friday prayer has been established as a special occasion for the fortunate ones; blessed are those who benefit from it. Those of you who have established a bond with me should never become arrogant that you have accomplished what was required of you.

Indeed, it is true that you are closer to me than those who have rejected me, i.e. those who have incurred God Almighty’s displeasure owing to their vehement rejection and dishonour.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “It is also true that you employed positive reasoning with regard to me and protected yourself from the wrath of God Almighty. However, the reality is that you are a step closer to that fountain established

by God in order to bestow everlasting life.

Indeed the only thing left is to drink from this fountain. Thus, implore God Almighty so that He many grant you the ability to drink from this fountain. It is only through His grace and mercy that one can drink from it and satiate their thirst; without God, nothing is possible. I am certain that whoever drinks from this fountain will not be destroyed because this water grants life and protects one from destruction and the attacks of Satan. How can one fully replenish themselves from this spring? It is by fulfilling the two rights God Almighty has made incumbent upon you to your utmost ability; one of these is to fulfil the rights due to God and the other is to fulfil the rights due to His creation.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 3, pp. 184-185) Thus, the Promised Messiahas has explained that one’s actions should be in accordance with the teachings of God Almighty and that after accepting the Promised Messiah, one should raise the standard of their worship and also in serving humanity. If this is not accomplished, then one cannot be counted amongst those who attain the favours of God Almighty in a manner that one truly ought to. In order to drink water from this fountain, one must revaluate their preferences and objectives.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira once stated, “I am anxious to know if I am the one being addressed in the statement of the Promised Messiahas where he stated that people have yet to drink water from this fountain.”

(Haqaiq-ul-Furqan, Vol. 4, p. 126)

We are all aware of the lofty status of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira since the Promised Messiahas held him in high esteem. If he was anxious about this, then how concerned should we be in relation to striving to drink from this fountain and to become those who discharge the due rights of our pledge of allegiance? Hence, it is vital to attain the pleasure of God Almighty in order to discharge His rights. It is necessary to bear in mind whether we have fulfilled the due rights of His worship because He has established worship as the sole purpose of our creation. God Almighty states: َّ ۡ ۡ َۡ​َ ‫َو َما خلق ُت ال ِج َّن َو الۡاِن َس ِالا ل َِی ۡع ُب ُد ۡو ِن‬ “And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.” God Almighty has elaborated the purpose of our creation. God Almighty did not state that since one obeys His commandment by offering the last Friday prayer of the month of Ramadan that one has fulfilled the due right of His worship.

In fact, He stated that this is a practise that one must adopt from an early age right until one’s last breath.

Hence, do not be under the impression that offering one Friday prayer in the year is sufficient, rather every single Friday prayer is important. Whilst drawing attention to observing the Friday prayers, God Almighty has not stated that one

The Holy Prophetsa then stated, “He who is neglectful of the Friday prayers owing to their frivolous pursuits or trade, God Almighty shall also pay no regard – surely Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy.”

(Kanzul Ummal, Vol. 7, p. 726, Kitab-ulSalat, Hadith no. 21120) God Almighty is not in need of anything from us. In fact, He is the One Who bestows everything, and owing to this, He requires that a believer ought to praise Him. The Holy Prophetsa also stated that the reward for good deeds on Friday increases manifold. (Kanzul Ummal, Vol. 7, p. 712, Kitab-ul-Salat, Hadith no. 21057) What further good deeds are there outside the sphere of the commandments of God Almighty and acting upon them?

Therefore, when a believer acts upon the commandments of God Almighty, for the sake of attaining His pleasure, among which is the command to attend the Friday prayers and to pay attention towards prayer and worship, then this is indeed a great virtue.

Furthermore, how great a reward will God Almighty be granting a believer, who carries out good deeds, offers his prayers and attends the Friday prayers, purely for the sake of obtaining the pleasure of God and without giving any precedence to worldly desires. Regarding those who

“I say truly that the Friday prayer has been established as a special occasion for the fortunate ones; blessed are those who benefit from it. Those of you who have established a bond with me should never become arrogant that you have accomplished what was required of you.” should offer the prayers to fulfil the rights owed to Him or offer the daily prayers as they benefit God Almighty in any way, or that God Almighty is in need of our Friday prayers and remembrance. Rather, God has stated that when a person goes for the Friday prayers, offers the prayers, listens to the sermon and remembers God, there comes an hour wherein God Almighty accepts whatever His servant asks of Him. In other words, if God Almighty grants man such an hour, then apart from things which are unlawful, whatever man requests is granted to him. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ulJumuah, Hadith no. 852) Bear in mind that this hour and this time is not specific to any particular Friday, it is for each and every Friday prayer.

Whilst stressing the importance of the Friday prayers, on one occasion the Holy Prophetsa stated: “Whoever believes in God and the Hereafter, it has been made incumbent upon them to offer the Jumuah prayer on Friday, except for the sick, the wayfarer, women, children and the bondsman, as they are all compelled by certain limitations.”

forsake the Friday prayer without reason, the Holy Prophetsa gave a grave warning that they shall be considered amongst the hypocrites. (Kanzul Ummal, Vol. 7, p. 730, Kitab-ul-Salat, Hadith 21144) The Holy Prophetsa also stated that he who misses three consecutive Friday prayers out of negligence, God Almighty shall place a seal on their hearts. (Sunan Abi Dawood, Kitab-ul-Salat, Hadith 1052) Hence this is a very alarming situation, because once the seal is set upon one’s heart, the ability to do good deeds also continues to diminish and attending the prayers and the Friday prayers unwillingly will continue to foster hypocrisy.

Thus, this is a very worrying situation which requires a great deal of attention. On one occasion the Holy Prophetsa instructed to offer the Friday prayers because the one who distances themselves from offering the Friday prayers will remain distant from paradise, even though they may be destined for paradise originally. (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 6, p. 752, Hadith no. 20373)

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

14

It should not be the case that after Ramadan, one regresses back to the same level they started at. This is precisely what the Promised Messiahas has stated that if one’s present is not showing improvement from their past, they cannot be considered a true believer.

Likewise, the Holy Prophetsa instructed to participate in the Friday prayers on countless occasions. Moreover, he also issued warnings to those who miss it without good reason. He never stated that you should only attend the final Friday in Ramadan and you shall have your sins forgiven. Rather, as we have determined from one of his instructions that the Holy Prophetsa stated that one who forsakes the Friday prayer or shows negligence due to their trade or being immersed in worldly affairs and endeavours, then God Almighty shall also forsake them. However, this is not limited to just the Friday prayer, in fact, let alone abandoning prayers and the Friday prayer owing to one’s worldly desires, one of the hallmarks of a believer who fulfils the due rights of prayer is that he anticipates and remains anxious between one prayer and the next, and also between one Friday prayer and the next Friday Prayer and between one Ramadan and the following Ramadan. They do not neglect their Friday prayers and other obligatory prayers for the sake of their worldly endeavours.

Therefore, we ought to be mindful of our prayers and ensure to keep our priorities in order. One must strive in order to attain [the nearness of] God Almighty and it is essential to develop a true understanding of this because this cannot be achieved merely through verbal deceleration.

If one was to carefully ponder upon this, they would realise that their actions are not reflective of one who truly understands the status of God and His grandeur. By assessing the practise of many of us, we cannot say that our conditions are like that of one who truly recognises God Almighty, in fact even our prayers are only to fulfil our personal interests.

If the objective of one’s prayers are to attain God Almighty, there would be consistency in one’s prayers. One’s heart should not only be inclined towards the Friday prayers, rather they should remain ever inclined towards offering all five daily prayers in the mosque. However, as I mentioned, many do not have a true understanding of this; they prioritise their temporary and urgent needs, but that which is everlasting and of greater significance is given secondary importance.

They abandon their prayers and the Friday prayer and seek to acquire their temporary worldly benefits, questioning the difference it would make since they can seek God Almighty’s forgiveness later and considering it best to first pursue their worldly endeavours.

A businessman may say that he does not want to lose the customer for who knows if such a customer will ever come again. Similarly, an employee who meets his superior may feel that since he is in a

good mood therefore if he was to seek leave because it was the time for prayer or the Friday prayer then perhaps his superior may become upset with him and thus he will be deprived from receiving any favour from him.

If such a thought arises in a person, then their priorities are completely different; their desire for the world supersedes their desire for God Almighty. Similarly, there are many other desires which instead of being given secondary importance to God Almighty, have become their foremost priority. For them, their worldly desires take precedence over God Almighty.

At that moment, one forgets the admonishment of the Holy Prophetsa that when one forsakes God Almighty and gives precedence to their worldly desires over Him, then God Almighty also forsakes that person and despite them deserving paradise, they are deprived from it owing to their neglectful attitude.

Thus, it is the duty of a believer to always be mindful of the fact that any trade and business, or any of their affairs for that matter, can only be blessed through the grace of God Almighty. Hence, if one can only attain these blessings through the grace of God Almighty, then they ought to strive to fulfil His rights first.

Therefore, everyone must try and understand this principle. If this principle is understood, then for the five daily prayers and the Friday prayers, our mosques will remain populated and in fact will appear to become short of space, even after Ramadan. Indeed, this was the very purpose of the Promised Messiah’sas advent to bring mankind closer to God Almighty and this is also the objective of our Bai‘at i.e. to attain God’s nearness, develop a bond with Him and to become His true servant.

Our daily prayers, Friday prayers, observing fasts and Eid should solely be for attaining the nearness of God Almighty.

It is for this reason that God Almighty has prescribed the month of Ramadan, so that the believers may raise the standard of their virtue and worship by paying special focus in this month. The standard they achieve should then be maintained and then seek to further build on that in the next Ramadan. It should not be the case that after Ramadan, one regresses back to the same level they started at. This is precisely what the Promised Messiahas has stated that if one’s present is not showing improvement from their past, they cannot be considered a true believer. (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 138) Thus, we have not gathered here today to bid farewell to the Friday prayer, rather we have gathered here to pray to God Almighty to further strengthen us in our piety, worship and love for God Almighty.

We should make a solemn pledge that, God willing, we shall strive to further excel in our relation with God Almighty. However, we can only make this pledge and pray for this when we truly understand what it means to acquire the nearness of God Almighty. In other words, one should truly understand that God Almighty is the possessor and fountainhead of all powers and He is One Who can complete every task to its perfection.

However, if one is to hold worldly pleasures and endeavours dearer than God, then their example is that of children who have no idea of the true value of diamonds. If such children were to find those diamonds, they would take them as mere marbles and would play with them whereby they throw marbles and the one who collects the greatest number of marbles by hitting the other marbles wins. This is the example of such people in that they too are playing with diamonds. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra relating an incident states: “Perhaps it was during my travel to Hajj when I was waiting for the ship at Bombay,” in those days they travelled by sea, “a friend told me that a few days ago a jeweller was going through the marketplace and lost his diamonds. It is said that there were perhaps 105 diamonds in total, consisting of various sizes. The jeweller reported this to the central police office who then informed all the local police stations in order to keep an eye out and carry out a search. After a few days, a person came to the police station and reported that he had seen some children playing with the diamonds. When

one of the children was asked about it, he replied that he thought they were marbles.

He said he found them wrapped in a piece of paper and thought they were marbles and just like other children, he also began to play with them. He was then asked where the rest of the diamonds were and he replied that he had shared them with the other children of his neighbourhood.

Even though those diamonds were worth hundreds of thousands of rupees, how would a child know what their true value was?”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra further states: “If the child’s father had found them, perhaps he would have tried to hide them and may have even left the city to sell them elsewhere in another city. However, they had no value in the eyes of the child and since he thought they were marbles, therefore he shared them with the other children. If the child had found small sweets, he would have been overjoyed and perhaps would not have shared them like he did with the marbles. However, in the case of the marbles, when the other children asked for them, he may have thought what he would do with 105 marbles and therefore shared them with the others.

However, if they were sweets on the other hand, he would never have shared them like that and would have decided to eat them himself. Thus, the sweets would have had more value in the sight of the child as compared to the marbles.”

Similarly, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra narrated another fable in which a man was travelling across a jungle. His food and provisions had become exhausted. He was starving to the extent that he did not see how he would survive without food. On the way he saw a sack and thinking that it contained roasted seeds or something edible, he rushed towards the sack. He slashed it with his knife, only to discover that it contained pearls. Dejected by this, he discarded the sack. In that instance, a handful of seeds seemed more precious to him than those pearls. Thus, one appreciates an object according to the need and knowledge of it.

Some people in their estimation strive in

Some people say that they prayed with great anguish and fervency, however God Almighty did not listen to their prayers. God Almighty has not stated anywhere that He shall fulfil all of man’s worldly desires and accept prayers related to them. Indeed, if one was to bring about virtuous changes within themselves and then pray in anguish to find God Almighty, then God has stated that He will certainly listen to such prayers.

15

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM search of something insignificant but then overlook the important matters. (Khutabate-Mahmud, Vol. 20, pp. 494-495) This is something we observe in relation to worldly pursuits and forging a connection with God Almighty. Many people in the world act in this manner and owing to their lack of knowledge or understanding about this, they give preference to these pursuits over their prayers. They consider less important matters to be very important for them and push aside those matters which are in fact vital for them.

With regard to giving preference to prayer, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has mentioned an excellent point. Before I mention his point, many people ask me as well that they pray in earnestness and with fervency, yet their prayers are not accepted.

I answer them in light of the verses I spoke about during the first sermon of this Ramadan in which God Almighty has said that He is near to His servants and that He listens to their prayers. God Almighty states: َّ ۡ َ َ َ َ َّ َ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ ‫ان � فل َي ۡس َت ِج ۡي ُبوۡا ل ِۡى َو ل ُي ۡؤ ِمنوۡا ِب ۡى ل َ َعل ُه ۡم‬ ِ ‫ا ِجيﺐ دعوة الد ِاع ِاذا دع‬ َ‫يَ ۡر ُش ُد ۡون‬ With regard to this verse, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has elaborated on the clause َّ َ َ ۡ َ ‫الد ِاع‬ ‫دع و ة‬ “The prayer of the supplicant” and states that this does not include every person who supplicates to God. Rather the acceptance of prayer mentioned in this clause refers to those supplicants who fast in the day for the sake of God Almighty, offer the obligatory prayers, spend time in remembrance of God Almighty, safeguard their prayers and the Friday prayers and then in the night, they supplicate to God Almighty with fervency and devotion.

Although the meaning of ‘al-Da‘i’ – the supplicant – could include every person who prays, however, in these verses, since the topic of Ramadan is specifically under discussion, therefore it refers to those supplicants who pray only for the sake of God Almighty. They do not offer their prayers only during Ramadan, in fact they worship all year round. They do not offer prayers for worldly pursuits, rather they only pray to be granted the nearness of God Almighty. God Almighty has stated that if a person abandons everything and seeks His nearness, then God Almighty listens to that person’s prayers and this is the meaning of ‘al-Da‘i’ [the supplicant] as explained by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. God Almighty has stated that His servants are those who strive to find Him, as explained in the verse: ّ َ َ َ ‫َو ِاذا َسالَك ِع َبا ِد ۡی َع ِن ۡى‬ that is, when God’s servants enquire about Him and wish to form a connection with Him, they do not enquire about food, employment nor any worldly desire, in fact they only ask, “where is God Almighty, as we wish to form a connection with Him.” God Almighty has stated that those who are anxious to meet Him, He responds to their calling. God Almighty has not stated that He certainly responds to those people who pray to Him about employment, food or for them to be bestowed wealth.

Usually it is the case that the people who seek these things from God Almighty are the ones who say that God Almighty did

not respond to their earnest and fervent prayers. The people who seek these things from God Almighty are those who worship God only occasionally. They only pray to God Almighty and fulfil His worship so long as they are in need of something. Their state of fervency is only temporary.

Some people say that they prayed with great anguish and fervency, however God Almighty did not listen to their prayers.

God Almighty has not stated anywhere that He shall fulfil all of man’s worldly desires and accept prayers related to them. Indeed, if one was to bring about virtuous changes within themselves and then pray in anguish to find God Almighty, then God has stated that He will certainly listen to such prayers.

God will then become the friend of such a supplicant and stand side by side with him, fulfil their requests and fight against their enemies.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “Some subject matters are not clear from the words alone, but instead are hidden deep within the text. The same is the case for the meaning of ‘al-Da‘i’ [the supplicant] in that it does not refer to every supplicant, rather it refers to the one who seeks God Almighty. God has stated, ‘When My servants strive towards Me, they develop a state of anguish and love within them that they supplicate “Where is our God” and God shall answer, ‘I do not reject the call of a supplicant and certainly respond to their prayer.’” (Khutabat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 20, pp.

500-501) People pray for worldly objects and when their prayers are not accepted, they become disappointed with God Almighty.

As I mentioned earlier, for example, they pray for employment and seeking many other things. A person may be more qualified for the job and will thus get that job. If then the other person complains that they prayed in anguish for that job, then it is quite possible that the first person prayed even harder and for that reason they were given the job. The same is the case for other worldly objects as well. Worldly pursuits are limited to a certain sphere. If a person has a job or works in a few different places, what they seek will be limited to that alone.

Similarly, other worldly pursuits are also limited. They will be one, two or a few, however, God Almighty is limitless and has no end. When we seek God Almighty, every single person can be granted His nearness, on the condition that they develop the fervency and act on His commands. God Almighty has stated that we ought to obey Him and understand the value of His lofty status and grandeur. One ought to recognise a diamond when they see it and not consider it to be a glass pebble.

When this is the case, one can find God Almighty and whosoever finds God Almighty, every blessing of this world will be made available for them. Thus, it is the duty of man to obey every injunction of God Almighty. One should not consider that only one month in the year is exclusive for worship. One should not consider that worship [only] on the last Friday of Ramadan will be accepted. We ought to have full conviction and belief in God Almighty and should never betray Him. Only then will we be counted amongst those people who are guided, as mentioned

by God Almighty. When God Almighty becomes the friend of an individual, then all their needs are taken care of and this is a promise of God Almighty.

Thus, it is our responsibility as those who have accepted the Promised Messiahas to raise the standards of our worship. Strive to prevent the standards from falling below the level that your worship has reached this Ramadan or the level that you are trying to raise it to. Continue to elevate the status of your prayers and maintain the attendance at Friday prayers, obey the commandments

of God Almighty and strive to become counted amongst those people who always pray for the sake of God Almighty alone, meaning that one ought to pray constantly for them to find God Almighty.

May our prayers and worship enable us to reach the level of meeting our God. May God Almighty enable us to achieve these standards.

(Translated by The Review of Religions. Originally published in Al Fazl International on 21 June 2019, pp. 5-8)

Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Finland Ijtema 2019

Syed Abdul Samad Finland Correspondent

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Finland organised its two-day annual Ijtema on 8-9 June in Espoo.

Preparations for this Ijtema had started in February when Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa granted us permission to organise the Ijtema on the requested dates.

Khuddam were continuously motivated to participate in educational and sports competitions. Some of the academic competitions for example tilawat, nazm and speech were conducted beforehand in Helsinki Salat centre.

On the first day, a combined Tahajud prayer was offered at Helsinki Salat centre followed by breakfast for all Khuddam. At 8am, the Ijtema officially commenced with the flag hosting ceremony by the National Sadr Ata-ul-Ghalib Sahib and Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Finland, Waqar Javed Sahib.

The highlight of the Ijtema this year was a message from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, which was read out by Sadr Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Finland in the first session. In his message, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa reminded Finnish Khuddam to draw their utmost attention towards Salat and to offer

it in congregation.

In the first session, academic competitions for Khuddam and Atfal were held. Then in the afternoon, after Zuhr and Asr prayers, lunch was served.

Sports competitions included 100-metre race, relay race, sabit qadmi, football and tug of war. We also had new additions such as miru dabba, team building race and hurdle race.

In the evening, Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered, after which dinner was served.

Many organisers stayed till late at night in the sports hall to prepare for the next day.

The following day, after the Fajr prayer and breakfast, Khuddam headed towards the volleyball ground where volleyball matches were held. Therafter, all Khuddam and Atfal gathered for the final session where prizes were distributed to position holders.

After the prize distribution ceremony, Finland’s president of Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya read out the message from Huzoor-e-Anwaraa once again and thanked all the Khuddam who participated in the Ijtema.

May Allah reward all the organisers and participating Khuddam and may Allah enable us to fulfil the expectations of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.

Friday 28 June 2019 | AL HAKAM

16

44TH JALSA SALANA GERMANY Inspirational and spritually uplifting addresses by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa Regular Tahajjud prayer, Salat in congregation and darses of the Holy Quran and Hadith Prayers, remembrance of Allah and spiritual brotherhood A great opportunity to acquire divine knowledge and experience a spiritual environment

Informative speeches on the following subjects: “Surely in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find comfort” (German) Imtiaz Ahmad Shaheen Sahib Missionary Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany Humility and Modesty of the Holy Prophetsa (Urdu) Sadaqat Ahmad Sahib Missionary In-charge Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany “Follow the teachings of the Quran and believe in it wholeheartedly” (German) Iftikhar Ahmad Sahib Missionary Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany “I shall protect everyone who is within the four walls of your home” (Urdu) Syed Mahmood Ahmad Shah Sahib Nazir Islah-o-Irshad, Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Paksitan “I am the water that descended from the heavens at the appointed hour” (German) Muhammad Luqman Majoka Sahib National Secretary Publications, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany Khilafat: The Guarantor of Spiritual Success (Urdu) Shamshad Ahmad Qamar Sahib Principal Jamia Ahmadiyya Germany Islamic Way of Life in the Digital Age (German) Hasanat Ahmad Sahib Life Devotee Victory of Islam Ahmadiyyat – Conquering the Hearts (German) Abdullah Wagishauser Sahib National Amir Jamaat Germany Life of Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasul Rajeki Sahibra (Urdu) Dr Abdul Ghaffar Sahib Missionary Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany

5, 6 and 7 July 2019

Watch live on MTA Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2019