Al Hakam - 08 February 2019

100 Years Ago...

A Week in Qadian

Al Hakam, 14 February 1919

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From the Markaz

A Promised Messiah?

Or Many?

Part II Responding to Allegations

From the Markaz A group of Lajna members from the ages of 15-21 had a mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V

French Khuddam Amila Meets Huzooraa

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 8 February 2019 | Issue XLVII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

An Ironic World It Is The Pope, Taliban and Facebook

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A Eucharist in Arabia

t was interesting to see the Pope celebrate the Eucharist, along with around 100,000 Christian pilgrims in Abu Dhabi – an emirate of the birthplace of Islam.

This alone was enough of a surprise for the whole world as the Arabian Peninsula is commonly known as unwelcoming towards non-Islamic festivity, not to speak of the Pope being welcomed along with a six-digit attendance. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Muhammad bin Zayed, is reported to have stated that the Pope symbolises “peace,

tolerance and promotion of brotherhood”.

Christian pilgrims had started to arrive almost a week before the Eucharist; their presence was felt on streets, in hotels and more so through the Christian doves of peace on placards – their wings with UAE flag colours. The celebration was held in a very hospitable atmosphere with state backing.

We see this (or like to see this) as a leap of the Arab world towards interfaith harmony, but, at the same time, it leaves us wondering whether it can be called a true spirit of religious tolerance. What still leaves us in

the shadows of doubt is the fact that the Arab world prohibits a Muslim sect to set foot on their soil.

Ahmadis cannot even land on the Arabian soil with an Ahmadi identity. They are banned from travelling for Hajj, Umrah or to any places sacred to them and to the millions of Muslims.

If the Pope’s welcome in Abu Dhabi means that Arab states are now moving towards religious tolerance, then this is good news.

If this is just another golden-handshake of some kind with the West (which Arabs

are notorious for), then we are left to doubt that life will become any easier for Ahmadis who have spent more than a century longing for the soil that their holy master, Hazrat Muhammad Rasulullahsa, once lived on and the air he breathed.

Since Ahmadis have no commercial ties to offer, it seems far from reality that they too would be welcomed in the status quo of the Arab world. We, Ahmadis, like to think positively, so hope survives any doubts.

Continued on page 2

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Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

US-Taliban Ceasefire Last week, talks between the USA and Afghanistan were held in Qatar in an attempt to reach a ceasefire with the Taliban.

One of the American demands was rather ironic: Afghanistan to pledge that it would not become a haven for terrorism again.

Those with even a slight interest in international geopolitics will have thought only America itself should make the pledge that they are asking of Afghanistan. The parent bodies of the Taliban were sown and nurtured in Afghanistan by none other than the US. What they got to reap, along with the whole world, was taken as an unforeseen end-product. The same USA that rocked the cradle of terrorism in Afghanistan now demands Afghanistan never to give birth to such a thing again.

Another astonishing factor is that news outlets still seem to believe that American claims of having talks with the Taliban are true and still let this fairy tale make it to their headlines.

Does the media still believe that the Taliban is a group of people? Does America still think that they can deceive the world by saying that they are holding talks with a group called Taliban? What else will it take for them to realise that Taliban is neither a club, nor a group, nor a cult; what we now know as Taliban is a mindset.

Of all religious leaders in the world, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa is by far the only one to say this openly and clearly, that Taliban and ISIS are more of mindsets than membership clubs.

Huzooraa has reiterated this fact on many occasions that radicalisation is now a global phenomenon and needs to be tackled accordingly. One does not have to travel to Syria or Afghanistan to be radicalised; a Twitter account can be more than sufficient to get brainwashed and see the loss of innocent lives.

Is America still not going to pay heed? We dare not answer this scary question.

Happy Birthday Facebook A social networking site was born on 4 February 2004. Like all newborns, it had everything it takes to be called innocent, lovely and harmless. And just as with all other newborns, no one knew what it was going to grow into.

On 4 February 2019, Facebook turned 15. While some celebrate the reunion of lost friends; an easy and no-cost pass-time; a platform to stay connected with the greater family and friends, irrespective of distance and time difference, there are others who mourn their once-upon-a-time happy lives lost to the anxiety, depression and insecurity caused by the cons of this 15-year-old site.

Researches have often surfaced showing Facebook pushing people into envying others and thinking of others as better off than them.

Since the modern world seems to ignore the good or bad effects before celebrating someone or something as revolutionary, Facebook is often credited for bringing about a “revolution” – a revolution that changed how we interact (so what if it cost us real-life interpersonal skills!); a revolution that brought everyone close by enabling us to share every moment of our day (so what if it cost us dignity and privacy!); a revolution that enabled us to become friends with people of our choosing (so what if there was someone totally different behind the innocent profile picture of the account robbing us of privacy, dignity, modesty and cheating us to do what we would never do in a normal, real-life situation!).

We believe that everything in this world has a flip side, but at the same time we believe that both sides have to be of the same size.

Can you imagine a coin with two sides of different sizes? But then again, you never know; we do live in a bizarre world, don’t we?

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

To Love the Prophetsa is Part of Faith Hazrat Anas, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children and all mankind.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Iman)

This Week in History 8-14 February 9 February 1878: An article written by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas on the subject of souls being eternal was published by the Arya Samaj in the newspapers of Wakeel, Hindustan etc. on 7 December 1877. The passion of the Promised Messiahas for serving Islam can easily be observed in his well-researched articles containing the refutation of the Arya Samaj’s allegations. These articles were published from 9 February to 9 March, in the Safir-e-Hind newspaper.

9 February 1885: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Mian Abdullah Sanaurira instructing him to get two thousand copies of the English translation of The Important Announcement and to bring them from Lahore to Qadian immediately.

The details of this announcement and the passion of the Promised Messiahas for the propagation of Islam will be discussed in upcoming issues.

10 February 1900: During the ongoing war in South Africa, English forces were in great difficulty against the local Boer commandos. Owing to the circumstances, the Promised Messiahas published an announcement in which he appealed for donations to aid the injured British soldiers in the war of Transvaal. Faithful members of the Jamaat contributed five hundred rupees to this cause, which were submitted to the government officials of that time and letters of appreciation were received. In this month, a book of the Promised Messiahas, Roedad Jalsa Dua, was composed as well.

10 February 1907: On this day, the Promised Messiahas received a letter sent by a manager of a gurukula (traditional Hindu educational institute) in Gujranwala. Malfuzat, volume five, page 145 indicates that on behalf of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra sent a reply to this letter on 17 February, in which there was an exchange of views regarding the schedule of a prearranged lecture that was to be delivered by Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in an event.

10 February 1908: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Mian Abdul Majeed Khanra saying that he was unwell for almost twenty days and was suffering from a severe cough.

11 February 1905: Maulvi Ahmad Saeed Ansari Sahib, a relative of Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira, arrived at Qadian and had the honour of meeting the Promised Messiahas.

12 February 1902: The Promised Messiahas conveyed a message to members of the Jamaat through Al Hakam that the written assessment that was recommended to take place at the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha be postponed due the outbreak of plague. Moreover, Huzooras blessed the residents of the cities that had succumbed to the plague, giving precious and elementary guidance.

12 February 1908: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Ali Khanra, which contained a message regarding the engagement of Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begumra.

13 February 1835: Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, was born to Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Murtaza and Hazrat Chiragh Bibi. It was a Friday and according to the Hijri Calendar, it was 14 Shawwal 1250 HA. According to the desi Punjabi year, or the Bikrami Calendar, it was first Phagan 1891. The Promised Messiahas was born at the break of dawn in Qadian Dar-ul-Aman.

13 February 1884: The Promised Messiahas journeyed to Amritsar.

13 February 1899: The Promised Messiahas departed for Pathankot for a court hearing regarding the maintenance of peace. Hazrat Ahmadas reached Batala from Qadian by dawn and left for Pathankot on train.

13 February 1903: A person of Baghdadi descent named Dr Muhammad Yusuf arrived at Qadian who was residing in Lucknow. He reached Qadian for research purposes and met with the Promised Messiahas.

13 February 1907: Alexander Russel Webb sent another letter from America to the Promised Messiahas. He was a priest of a church and editor of the newspaper Daily Gazette. He was once appointed as an ambassador of America to the Philippines. Mr Russel Webb was part of the team that revised the translation of the lecture, Islami Usul Ki Philosophy (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam) delivered by the Promised Messiahas, which had been translated into English

by Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib.

14 February 1899: The Promised Messiahas appeared in the governmental court of Pathankot owing to a court hearing on the maintenance of peace.

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Do Not Adopt Hypocritical Ways It is incumbent that man not adopt the way of hypocrisy. For example, if a Hindu (despite being a ruler or high official) were to suggest that Ram and Rahim are one and the same, a person should not agree with such an opinion thoughtlessly. Allah the Exalted does not forbid one from treating others with civility. One should always respond politely. It is not wise to make comments that unnecessarily enrage others and which result in pointless conflict. But, a person should never conceal the truth. An individual who pliantly accepts the false statements of others eventually becomes a disbeliever. ‫ی��ر�� �� ��� �ی‬ Become the friend of he who is dominant, so that you too may become dominant.

Allah the Exalted should always be honoured and respected. There is not a single aspect of our religion that is at odds with civility.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 6)

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Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

From the Markaz

Lajna Students Mulaqat

OLajna members from the ages of 15-21 n Saturday, 2 February 2019, a group of

had a mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand.

During the mulaqat, this fortunate group of Lajna had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa various questions on current affairs, issues they faced and the Islamic perspective of various matters.

Whilst speaking to Dr Fariha Khan Sahiba, Sadr Lajna Imaillah UK, she told us: “There is a story behind this mulaqat.

A while ago, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa had instructed the sadr of Lajna Imaillah to visit the northern areas of the UK to observe some of the challenges being faced by the younger generation. Thus, I went and visited areas in the north.

“Upon my return, I submitted a report to Huzooraa, upon which Huzooraa graciously said, ‘You invite members of Lajna from other countries, so you should also bring members from the north to meet me.’”

To attend this mulaqat, Lajna from distant places were invited, for example, Midlands, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, South West England and parts of Greater London.

A Lajna member from Hounslow asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa regarding his stance on Brexit in light of the current political state of Britain. Huzooraa replied that he had spoken on length on this issue at the European Parliament. Huzooraa then stated that he had voted against Brexit and expressed concern at the current state of affairs.

A question regarding polygamy was raised by an international student from Pakistan who

asked Huzooraa why, in today’s modern day, Muslim men were allowed to marry up to four times?

Addressing this question, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated, “The question is not about the ‘modern day’, rather it is about certain conditions, and only when the conditions apply can men marry up to four women.”

Huzoor also gave the example of Germany in World War II, saying: “During the Second World War, many men lost their lives and the world saw a massive growth in the number of women in contrast to men. At that time, women were frustrated as they were not able to find men to marry. If polygamy was practiced then, this frustration could have been avoided. Only if circumstances permit, is it allowed.”

A Lajna member who is currently studying in school said to Huzooraa regarding nonAhmadi Muslims who do not observe purdah or use the headscarf that they judge the style of purdah adopted by Ahmadi girls. Regarding this, Huzooraa stated, “If you know that you are following the true teachings of Islam, then it should not matter to you.” Huzooraa further added, “You should be confident in what Islam teaches.”

A student from Birmingham informed Huzooraa about her studying law and her aspiration to be a lawyer. Seeking guidance, she further asked what she should do as she read on online platforms of the Jamaat that it was advised for girls not to be lawyers. Reassuring the student of law, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said, “Complete your degree and [pursue] work, provided you follow the Islamic dress code.”

Regarding the status of women in Islam and the rights of husbands and wives, a Lajna member from Birmingham asked if the status of the husband and wife was equal in Islam.

Answering this, Huzooraa said: “They have their equal rights, but there is a division of labour and duties. The husband’s duty and responsibility is to work outside and

Humanity First Germany Donation in Macedonia

Zubair Khalil Khan Director Projects for Balkan Countries Humanity First Germany

n a festive ceremony organised by the IMacedonia, mayor of the municipality of Kumanovo, on 22 January 2019, Abdullah Wagishauser Sahib, National Amir of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany officially handed over a van specially designed to transport disabled children.

With special permission from Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Abdullah Wagishauser Sahib arrived in Kumanovo travelling by road from Pristine, Kosovo.

At the occasion of Jalsa Salana Germany 2018, Mr Maksim Dimitrievski, Mayor of Kumanovo visited Germany. There he met with the chairman of Humanity First and requested a van for transporting disabled children in his city.

According to the mayor, there are 800 disabled children in the city of over 100,000 residents. Daily, over 100 disabled children visit various schools. The request was approved and a suitable van was purchased and sent to Macedonia.

Media representatives were present to cover the donation. While speaking on the occasion, Amir Sahib Germany introduced the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

He explained the two goals of the Jamaat – worshipping Allah and serving His creation – as mentioned by the founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam.

Abdullah Wagishasuer Sahib told the media that the Ahmadiyya Jamaat on one side was making all efforts for mankind to turn towards God, while at the same time,

through efforts like Humanity First, was making huge efforts to serve mankind.

The mayor of the city, in his statement, applauded the worldwide peace efforts made by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. He also praised the positive contribution of Ahmadi Muslims living in his city and offered his deepest thanks and gratitude for the valuable donation of a van, which would transport some of the many disabled children to their schools.

Though it was a small donation in the form of a van, but due to this official event organised in the premises of the municipality offices, many media representatives had covered the event causing the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat to reach thousands of local residents. Alhamdolillah.

provide for the family, and the wife’s duty is to look after the children and take care of the house. However, if a woman has a professional degree in a certain field, she is permitted to work too, provided that the job is beneficial for human beings and not for the sake of earning money.”

Talking about the changes Islam brought about for mankind, Huzooraa further stated, “…Islam has given the right of divorce to women, which no other religion has given.

Women also have the right to inherit property as well as many other rights, which prior to Islam, women did not even have.”

A Lajna member from Luton asked what it meant from the Hadith in which the Holy Prophetsa said that the soul remains in this world for forty days. Huzooraa replied: “This should not be taken in the literal sense. As soon as man dies, the soul is raised.

The meaning behind this Hadith is that in the first forty days, after the demise of a person, people should pray for the deceased in abundance that God may have mercy on their soul. This is not to say that after forty days the prayer for the deceased is idle; forty days was said just so a habit of praying for the deceased be formed within Muslims.”

Another student asked regarding how one could prepare for exams during the month of Ramadan. Huzooraa stated, “If you feel like you cannot do justice to your fast or cannot focus on your studies and exams whilst fasting, then it is permissible to leave your fast, and after your exams, you can complete it another time.”

Following this question, a Lajna member expressed that her favourite subject was geography and wished to specialise in this field.

She further enquired if she would still be able to help the Jamaat whilst working in this field.

Huzooraa firstly expressed his delight that she was interested in geography and stated, “There are many ways one can serve the Jamaat. Even if you can’t help within this field, you can do so in other ways.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa gave the example of Prof Abdus Salam Sahib who studied physics and said that he was able to do tabligh and spread the beautiful teachings of Islam even whilst working in his field.

Sadr Lajna Imaillah UK, Dr Fariha Sahiba told Al Hakam, “The feedback that we received after the mulaqat from the Lajna who attended was overwhelming. I received many positive text messages.

“In previous mulaqats, Huzoor has always encouraged girls to be open about the challenges and questions they may be facing.

Recently, Huzoor said in a mulaqat that if those in attendance were too shy to ask their questions, then they should write him their questions. Accordingly, many girls wrote to Huzooraa and received letters spanning multiple pages in response.

“Huzoor has always been accessible for the youth and this mulaqat was just one example of that.”

This fortunate group of Lajna had the blessed opportunity to sit in the presence of our beloved Imam for guidance and to ask questions on various subjects. Throughout the year, many are fortunate to travel and have an audience with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa in which they are able to seek guidance on various matters.

Through Al Hakam, we try to provide our readers all around the world with the essence of such mulaqats. Although those who live far away cannot physically be with Huzooraa, but can stay up to date with our beloved Imam’s engagements.

May Allah bestow our Imam with an army of loyal servants who are ever ready to defend the honour of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

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French Khuddam Amila Meets Huzooraa

Sports Day for Lajna Kenya Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

Lajna Imaillah Nairobi region successfully held their Sports Day activities on 27 January 2019. The event was held at the Nairobi Headquarters Mosque, Murang’a Road.

The Sports Day started at around 11:30am in the Ahmadiyya Hall with tilawat followed by nazm. Sports Secretary Mrs Faiza Abdallah Ahmad Sahiba welcomed Sadr Lajna Imaillah, Mrs Khadija Juma for introductory remarks.

Thereafter all Lajna and Nasirat went to the field for sports activities.

Activities included flat race, walking race, obstacle race and musical chairs among many others. This continued until Zuhr and Asr prayers, after which lunch was served.

Towards the conclusion of the event, all the winners were given awards, and the day ended with dua by Sadr Sahiba Lajna Imaillah.

The total attendance was 60 people including 41 Lajna and 19 Nasirat.

The Sports Day event was conducted simultaneously in other regions of the country including Mabera, Taveta and Western Regions.

Omembers of the amila of Majlis Khuddamn 3 February 2019, 26 qaideen and

ul-Ahmadiyya France visited the Markaz to seek guidance from Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa. Huzooraa commenced the mulaqat with silent prayer, after which Khuddam introduced themselves and their respective offices and roles.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked each Khadim regarding their work and guided them on how they could improve and play a more

active role.

One Khadim, who is qaid of a Majlis near Paris, originally from Mauritius, expressed his happiness upon seeing Huzooraa and requested for prayers. He asked how he could make sure that he served the Jamaat in the best possible manner.

Huzooraa stated, “You should set a good example with regard to the congregational prayers, your morals, the way you dress and the way you talk. In all aspects, you should be a role model for the Khuddam. This is how you can best serve the Jamaat.”

Whilst talking with the qaideen, Huzooraa

enquired from them how many Khuddam were in their respective locations and what events and activities were held.

Our Al Hakam reporters got in touch with Chaudhry Jamil ur Rehman Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya France, and asked him regarding the mulaqat.

“By the grace and blessings of Allah, we were able to meet with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa to receive guidance for our respective duties.

The main aim of this mulaqat was to seek guidance and also motivate our Khuddam.”

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya was established by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

in 1938. The main aim and purpose for this organisation was to inculcate within the youth the true essence of sacrifice and commitment to one’s faith, country and nation. Since then, the Majlis has branched out and is now established in most countries of the world.

This is no easy task – the reformation of a nation.

Readers of Al Hakam are requested to continue to pray for Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa that he may always have an army of helpers at hand devoted to protecting the flag of Islam Ahmadiyyat, so that the flag may continue to be a source of light for the world.

Uganda Mosque Opening and Sirat-un-Nabi Day Sheikh Ahmad Kaire Batte Uganda Correspondent

n Sunday, 27 January 2019, we attendO ed Wakisi mosque inauguration ceremony in connection with Jalsa Sirat-un-Na-

bi which took place in Wakisi local Jamaat region.

After the arrival of Amir Sahib and missionary in-charge, the ceremony commenced with the opening of the mosque

by Amir Sahib which was followed by Zuhr prayer.

Next on the programme was lunch, followed by an inspection of the mosque by Amir Sahib.

The Sirat-un-Nabi programme started with recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by an Arabic poem.

Sheikh Adam Hamid Ssembanjwe gave the first speech on The Blessed Life of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.

In his speech, he said that one of the most remarkable miracles of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was that he managed to make Arabs, who were more or less beasts at the time, into godly human beings with his simplicity, love, kindness, tolerance, mercifulness, forgiveness, trustworthiness and truthfulness.

Following that, the local president, Haji Abdul Kiwanuka – who in fact donated the land upon which Wakisi mosque now stands and who initiated the constructions – in his comments thanked Allah the Almighty Who had enabled him to construct

a mosque.

Haji Abdul Kiwanuka said, “Don’t think that I had a lot of money; in fact, when I donated this land and construction work began, I was financially unstable. But I believed that donating land and funding the construction could not lead me to bankruptcy. You know me well; I am not rich.

“Wealth is not always the issue. The issue is faith and determination. I want to urge all those who have this idea in their minds, but are waiting to get rich that they should set off now with whatever capacity Allah has given them.”

Next was a comment from Mukono re-

gional president Alhaji Muhammad Kato.

His short speech was full of gratitude to Allah the Almighty. He also thanked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and the amir who supported the construction at times when the work was almost at a halt.

The amir and missionary in-charge then gave the concluding remarks. Commenting about the aims of the construction of mosques, he said, “Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya is growing day by day. Work and responsibilities are also increasing as well. We still face a challenge of deficiency in secular and religious knowledge among our people. As for children and their tarbiyat, we should

know that the progress of the Jamaat lies upon it. Therefore, we should remember that mosques are constructed for worship (Salat), remembrance of Allah and recitation of the Holy Quran. This means that we as Ahmadis still have a challenge of constructing as many mosques as possible for properly training and teaching the world about their Creator.”

Amir Sahib asked all those who attended the ceremony to join him in a silent prayer which marked the end of the ceremony. A total of 427 people attended the function.

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

5 Responding to Allegations

A Promised Messiah? Or Many?

Part II the Almighty states in the form of a Allah promise to the Muslim Ummah: ْ ْ َ ْ َ ْ َّ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ َ ْ ْ ُ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ

‫ض کما استخلف ال ِذین ِمن قبل ِ​ِھم‬ ِ ‫لیستخلِفنھم فِی الار‬ Allah the Almighty would make successors in this Ummah as He had made successors in previous nations (Surah alNur, Ch.24: V.56). َ The word ‫( ک َما‬as) denotes a resemblance and its usage in this verse is worth reflecting upon.

A resemblance either occurs between two subjects or two objects and it happens between two separate entities. The subject in both clauses of this verse is God. Thus, in this instance, the resemblance between both subjects is not referred to, but the resemblance between both objects is what is meant. In other words, the successors of the Muslim Ummah would be similar to the successors of former nations.

The Holy Prophetsa states:َ ُ َ ُ َ​َ َ َ َ َ َ ّ ‫کل َما ھلک ن ِب ٌّی خلفہ ن ِب ٌّی‬ After the death of a prophet, the successor of a prophet amongst the Bani Israel also used to be a prophet. (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab Ahadithul Anbiya, Hadith No. 3455) In light of the mentioned prophecy in the verse of Surah al-Nur and the Hadith of Bukhari, it is established that the successors of the Muslim Ummah would resemble former prophets, meaning that the four rightly guided successors after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa were like unto prophets.

Moreover, foretelling the future of his Ummah, the Holy Prophetsa prophesised: َ ُّ َ ْ َ َ ً َ َ ُ ُْ َ َُ ‫الن ُب ّو ِۃ‬ ‫اج‬ ِ ‫ث ّم تکون ِخلافۃ علی ِمنھ‬ Khilafat would appear in his Ummah in the latter days. This is indicative of the fact that the forthcoming successors in the Muslim Ummah would each be the reflection of prophets.

Hence, Imam Razirh also mentions this very topic under the commentary of this verse. He says: ُ ‫اس َت ْخل َ َف َہ‬ ْ ‫َک َما‬ ْ ‫اس َت ْخل َ َف الَّذیْ َن ِم ْن قَ ْبلہ ْم ی َ ْعن ْی َک َما‬ ‫ار ْو َن َو‬ ً َ ْ ْ ُ ُ َ ّ َ َ ْ َ َ ِ ْ َ ّ ِ ُ ِْ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ِ ُ َ َ ُ َ َ َ َ ْ ُ ‫ان و تق ِدیر النظ ِم لیستخلِفنہم اس ِتخلافا‬ ‫یوشع و داود و سلیم‬ َّ ُ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ َ ‫َ ْ ْ َ َم ْن َ ْ َ ُ ْ م ْن‬ ُ َ ‫السل‬ .‫ام‬ ‫اف قبلہم ِ ہؤلا ِء الان ِبیا ِء علیہِم‬ ِ ‫کاس ِتخل‬ “The words, ‘As He made successors from among those who were before them’ refer to how the likes of Aaron, Joshua, David and Solomon were chosen as successors, and in accordance to this practise, He will surely choose successors from among them as He had chosen those before them from these prophets, on whom be peace.”

The Holy Prophetsa mentioned precisely the same issue in one of his Ahadith where he states: َْ​َ َ ُ ُ َ​َ ُ ‫علم‬ ‫اء ا ّم ِت ْی کان ِب َیا ِء ب َ ِن ْی ا ِْس َرائِ ْیل‬ “The divine scholars of my Ummah shall be like the prophets of the Children of Israel.”

Imam Razirh mentions this Hadith on four occasions in his commentary. This shows that the verse of Istikhlaf [making successors] and this Hadith contain the prophecy that the saints and successors of the Muslim Ummah would continue to

appear in the image of the prophets of Bani Israel. For this reason, the saints before the advent of the Promised Messiahas were also like unto the prophets of the Children of Israel. Similarly, the saints and successors after the Promised Messiahas will also be in similarity with the prophets of Bani Israel.

In this manner did the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat also declare his son to be like unto the Messiahas. Every saint and successor resembles a prophet, even if Allah does not inform them of which prophet they are a reflection.

In this Hadith, the Holy Prophetsa foretold that the righteous scholars of his Ummah would be like the prophets of Bani Israel. In other words, as God Almighty used to extensively accept the prayers of those prophets and divine revelation used to descend upon them; as God Almighty used to come to their assistance and bless their speech and actions, God would deal with the forthcoming pious scholars of His Ummah in the same manner and they would be like unto the prophets of Bani Israel.

As the enemies of Maryas and her son levelled impure and vile allegations against them, Allah the Almighty henceforth metaphorically adopted the names “Mary” and “Jesus” for the righteous and beloved servants of God as a rebuttal to the Jews’ allegations, as we have mentioned in light of the Quran and Hadith above.

One who is like unto another is sometimes equal to the person they resemble in rank. Sometimes, they are lesser in rank and sometimes greater, as Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: ُ ْ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ​َ َ ْ َْ ْ َ ْ ّ ٌ َ َ َ​َ ‫اس َتکب َ ْرت ْم‬ ‫و ش ِھد شا ِھد ِمن بنِی ِاسرائِیل علی ِمث ِل ِہ فٓامن و‬ “…and a witness from among the children of Israel bears witness to the advent of one like him, and he believed, but you are too proud…” (Surah al-Ahqaf, Ch.46: V.11) Furthermore, He states: ً‫انَّا اَ ْر َس ْل َنا ال َ ْی ُک ْم َر ُسوْلًا َشاھ ًدا َع َل ْی ُک ْم َک َما اَ ْر َس ْل َنا الَی ف ِْر َعوْ َن َر ُسوْلا‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ “Verily, We have sent to you a Messenger, who is a witness over you, even as We sent a Messenger to Pharaoh.” (Surah alMuzammil, Ch.73: V.16) In these verses, the Holy Prophetsa has been declared like unto Mosesas whereas his status is greater than of Mosesas. Similarly, those saints and scholars who are not prophets but are in the image of the prophets of Bani Israel are lesser in status than them on account of not being prophets.

It is alleged that in an excerpt of Ainae-Kamalat-e-Islam, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas mentioned the coming of three individuals only, who would resemble Jesusas. The first individual was the Holy Prophetsa, the second person is the Promised Messiahas i.e. the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat himself, and the third individual would appear close to Judgement Day. Furthermore, a sentence of the book of the Promised Messiahas, Izala-e-Auham, in which Hazrat Ahmadas states “In my

opinion, thousands of individuals in the image of Jesusas can appear in the future” is also mentioned. Bearing both these extracts in minds, attempts have been made to prove them to be conflicting views.

These extracts are easily understandable and such allegations are purely levelled to deceive people. In these extracts, the coming of that particular Messiah has simply been denied regarding whom people believe that the Gospels had descended on. The Messiah who would descend to the east of Damascus; whose hands would be placed on the shoulders of angels; who would break the cross, slay the swine and from whose breath disbelievers would die was not Jesus. Regarding this belief, the Promised Messiahas stated that the coming of the Promised Messiahas, who had been prophesied, meant the coming of a person bearing resemblance to him because the Israeli Messiah had passed away. Thus, he would not leave paradise and return to this world.

He who was to come for the purpose of breaking the cross has already appeared.

Now none else shall come.

Nevertheless, opponents present extracts of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas in which he likened a child of his to the Messiah. Thus, there is a prophecy concerning a promised son: “He will come into the world and will heal many of their disorders through his messianic qualities and through the blessings of the Holy Spirit”. (Aina-eKamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, p.

647) Furthermore, he stated that thousands of people have been born resembling the Messiah and this is possible in the future too, as this topic has been mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, that all saints and khalifas are like unto prophets.

The Promised Messiahas states in a Persian couplet: ‫ن‬ ‫دص زہاران �ی و سفے �ب� ی�م ی ن‬ ‫در� اچہ ذنق‬ �‫م یس‬ ‫وٓان ح انرصی دشازدم اوےب امشر‬

Continued on page 7

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Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM 100 Years Ago...

A Week in Qadian Al Hakam, 14 February 1919

H

azrat Khalifatul Masih [IIra] went to Lahore for a few days to seek medical assistance.

On behalf of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, Maulvi Sher Ali Sahib, Nazir-e-Ala (Chief Administrator) has published an announcement in which the dates of Jalsa Salana have been determined as 15, 16 and 17 March 1919 – Saturday, Sunday and Monday respectively. [Due to reasons already mentioned in a previous issue of Al Hakam, the 1918 Jalsa Salana was not held in December and was postponed for a few months.]

Members of the Jamaat will indeed make efforts to increase the grandeur of Jalsa Salana.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih delivered a short address after the Asr prayer, prior to leaving Qadian. The outline of that address in simple words is that the Holy Prophetsa used to appoint amirs (interim heads) in his absence when he would leave for journeys.

“At times, very simple looking companions were appointed amirs over the likes of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra.

Similarly, I [Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra] have appointed amirs before departing on previous journeys and have appointed a different amir in the following journey. The previous amir was not changed because of his ignorance or any weakness, but in fact, it was done so to increase the spirit of

AMJ France Drafts Outline for 2019 Mansoor Ahmed Mubashir France Correspondent

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he 8th national refresher course of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya France was held on 19 and 20 January 2019.

It was attended by all missionaries, members of national amila and local presidents with their amila members.

The programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran after which the Amir of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya France delivered the opening speech.

There were four sessions in total, which covered the different committees, work achieved in 2018 and plans for 2019.

The event was successful and plans have been made for the upcoming year.

We request prayers from the readers of Al Hakam for Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France to prosper in all fields.

obedience in the Jamaat.

“Once, I appointed Khalifa Rashiduddin Sahib as amir whilst on a journey, and on other occasions I appointed Maulvi Sher Ali Sahib or Maulvi Sarwar Shah Sahib as amirs.

Likewise, as I am leaving for Lahore to seek medical assistance, in my absence, I appoint Qazi Syed Amir Hussein Sahib as the amir of Qadian.

“During my absence every task will be performed as usual. For instance, if a task is performed under the supervision of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, it will be carried out by their officers, and if a matter falls under the jurisdiction of Umure-Ama [Department of General Affairs], it will be carried out by the director of General Affairs.

“Similarly other departmental heads shall perform their duties as usual. As for the Jamaat in Qadian, if there is an urgent matter that has to be dealt with i m m e d i a t e l y, Qazi Syed Amir Hussein Sahib’s instructions must be followed, provided he gives specific instructions regarding that matter. Whereas if he hands that matter over to somebody else, then that is his responsibility.

“Certain people expect from the amir to do the work of a Khalifa. However, there is a difference between a Khalifa and an amir.

The Holy Prophetsa would even appoint an amir between two people departing on a journey. The authority of Qadian’s amir is similar to the amir appointed for Sialkot, as he would only be the amir of that local

Jamaat. Similar is the case of Qadian’s amir, but as Qadian is the Markaz as well, there is a preference, in that if an urgent requirement is made from external Jamaats, it is managed by the Markaz. This preference is due to the Markaz, otherwise the amir is not the Khalifa.

“Certain people are of the view that freedom is compromised due to the appointment of an amir. I believe that freedom is granted with the appointment of an amir. Where do you find that freedom that has been granted in England, France and America? In Germany, where every person is attempting to destroy the other person, do you see freedom? Freedom is with an amir. A person is free to practice their rights under the guardianship of the government and the law, thus the amir does not end that freedom, in fact, freedom is with an amir.

“I repeat the announcement in the end that Qazi Syed Amir Hussein Sahib shall be the Amir of Qadian’s Jamaat in my absence while I travel.”

On the instructions of Hazrat Sahib, the editor of Al Hakam went to Jammu, then to Batala, and after returning to Qadian, he has travelled to Hoshiarpur. This newspaper is being published in his absence.

The committee responsible for Jalsa management has started to perform its duty.

(Translated by Al Hakam)

Health

Internet and Social Media Addiction Samar Hafeez Clinical Psychologist and Counsellor Bangalore, India

“The great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.” (Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr) A lot has changed since technology engulfed the world. Before this, not everyone had access or means to afford sophisticated gadgets and internet connections, but now, everyone, including young children, seems to be fascinated with them.

The internet has made life a lot easier by making information more accessible and by creating a connection with people around the globe.

However, this convenience does present the risk of addiction. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and many others seem to have consumed the world as we know it. More and more social networks are popping up every day for us to log in, create a profile and connect with others.

Initially, it may seem like a fun and harmless way to connect with friends, colleagues and families offshore, but over time, the now ubiquitous use of the internet and its social media platforms in modern culture is having a noticeable negative impact

on human psychology.

Being “transparent” seems to be a fad in today’s world and this sense of transparency has led to the psychological and emotional exploitation of many.

With the use of internet, tablets and smart phones becoming an increasingly commonplace in the world, the question of, “How much usage is too much?” naturally arises.

It should be understood that everyone’s experience of using internet varies; some use it for their jobs, others solely for entertainment purposes. Ultimately when there is extensive, compulsive use of these platforms to the point that it interferes with your daily functioning at school, work and personal relationships, you may be using it too much. It is always better to recognise a problem in its initial stages so that its intervention is a complete success.

What are the signs of online addiction?

An addiction to the internet and social media is manifested in physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms. These are basically

warning signs for you to quickly detect the problem.

The physical symptoms include backaches, neckaches, severe headaches, weight loss or weight gain, sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep), blurred or strained vision and carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness and tingling in the hand and arm caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist).

The cognitive symptoms include: • Preoccupation with the internet (Persistently thinking about its past and future usage) • Poor attention span (People are far more distracted and vulnerable due to easy access to entertainment. Social media stimulates the brain with more visual colours, and constantly changing images) • Depression (Evidence is mounting that there is a link between social media usage and depression. In recent studies, teens and young adult users who spent most of their time on Instagram, Facebook and other platforms were shown to have a higher rate of reported depression than those who spent less time. Nowadays we spend Continued on page 7

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Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 5

“I observe a thousand Josephs in a dimple of the Holy Prophetsa; And by the blessings of his breath, innumerable Nazarene Messiahs were born.”

It is also alleged that the Promised Messiahas declared his promised son to bear a resemblance to the Messiah, whereas he made no such claim in his entire life.

It is not necessary for a prophet, khalifa or saint who bears a resemblance with a prophet to make a claim. It is established from the Quran and Hadith that the beloved

and holy men of God are likened to Maryas and the Son of Mary, but not every saint has claimed to resemble Maryas or the Son of Mary.

The Holy Quran has declared the successors of the Holy Prophetsa to be like unto prophets, but no claim of the rightly guided Khulafa exists in which they announced the prophet they reflected.

Thus, it is not a prerequisite for one who bears a resemblance with a certain prophet to claim which prophet they are similar to, but it is also not unlawful to claim resemblance with a prophet, or the Messiah

Interfaith Dialogue: Is the God of the Bible the Same as the God of the Quran?

Farhan Iqbal Missionary, Canada

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he religion of Islam encourages Muslims to engage in inter-faith dialogue, as the Quran states: “And who is better in speech than he who invites men to Allah and does good works and says, ‘I am surely of those who submit?’ And good and evil are not alike. Repel evil with that which is best. And lo, he between whom and thyself was enmity will become as though he were a warm friend.” (Surah Ha Mim al-Sajdah, Ch.41: V.34-35) It was the practise of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa to engage in inter-faith discussions as part of his preaching. Similarly, the Promised Messiahas welcomed any opportunity to discuss matters of faith.

In 1896, when Swami Sadhu Shivgan Chandar invited the Promised Messiahas to speak at the Conference of Great Religions, he honoured the invitation, and it led to the publication of a special lecture, entitled, The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam.

In light of these teachings, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Canada has always sought opportunities to engage the various faith groups in Canada in inter-faith dialogue.

In Vaughan (north of Toronto), the Jamaat has built an enduring relationship with the Maple Community Church, whose current lead pastor is Mr Jason Cleugh.

Being neighbors, the Church and our Jamaat maintained regular contact, which ultimately led to the first inter-faith dialogue held nearly 10 years ago at a hall in a school. Since then, five additional programmes have been held at Tahir Hall, next to Baitul Islam Mosque.

Over the years, Ahmadi Muslims and Christians have felt that this dialogue enables them to engage in healthy discussions on a wide array of topics related to religion and explore comparisons of Christian and Islamic beliefs.

The latest event took place on 17 November 2018. Its topic, approved by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, was, “Is the God of the Bible the same as the God of the Quran?”

The programme started at 5:30pm after Maghrib and Isha prayers. It was moderated by Sabih Nasir Sahib who first invited Fateen Riaz Sahib for tilawat and then Mr Colin Cleugh for

a reading from the Bible. Then, he welcomed everyone to the evening’s programme and gave some initial comments.

After that, the Ahmadiyya Muslim perspective was presented by my humble self for 25 minutes. During the address, I made the case in the affirmative, and presented several references from the Bible and the Quran which express similar attributes of God. In essence, the God of the Biblical prophets is the same God Who sent the Prophet Muhammadsa, and He is also the God of Jesus Christas. It was also shown how Jesusas is not divine as he did not demonstrate the attributes that God has, in his own self.

This presentation was followed with a 25-minute presentation by Mr Tony Costa, an apologist and professor of Toronto Baptist seminary. Mr Costa argued in the negative and tried to make the case that the God of the Bible is not the God of the Quran. This was followed by 7 minutes of comments by each of us, and then an open question and answer session. 25 questions were asked, out of which 17 were addressed to Mr Tony Costa.

The programme ended at 8:30pm with closing comments followed by silent prayer.

A total of 365 people attended the event. The dinner arrangement that followed gave the guests an opportunity to mingle with one another and discuss the topic of the day and other related topics. Some discussions lasted well into the night.

By the grace of Allah, many guests appreciated the event and the intriguing dialogues it led to.

Farhan Khokhar Sahib, Vice President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Canada, wrote, “The tradition of interfaith dialogue established by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat is unique in world religions’ relationships. The event showed the non-Muslim audience how Muslims can present beautiful teachings of Islam without disparaging another faith. This is a high moral ground. Muslim audience benefited by not only understanding the Ahmadiyya Muslim perspective, but also learning how Christian representatives interpret their scriptures.”

Tahir Ahmed Sahib, Mohtamim Ishaat for Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada, noted, “It was a very nice experience to hear such a quality discussion. Murabbi Farhan Iqbal Sahib presented the Jamaat’s point of view in a very dignified manner. I learned so much on the topic of Tauheed [unity of God] and learned about the attributes of Allah the Almighty.”

It is our earnest prayer that Allah keeps on giving the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat even greater opportunities to spread the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat to all the people of Canada, and to the whole world. Amin.

in this case.

Now, the objection that is left to be dealt with is that Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra did not name himself the like of the Messiah, but he merely declared that the prophecy of the Promised Son was fulfilled in his person.

However, when it has already been established that the son of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra declared himself to be the fulfilment of the prophecy pertaining to the Promised Son, then naturally all the attributes mentioned in this prophecy are

fulfilled in his person, one of which is that he was similar to the Messiah. Thus, on 6 January 1944, he received the revelation: ْ َ​َ ُ َ َ ُ ُ ْ ُ ‫انا ال َم ِس ْیح ال َم ْوﻋ ْو ُد َم ِﺜ ْی� ُ� َو خلِ ْیف ُتہ‬ “I am the Promised Messiah; his like and his successor.” (Roya wa Kushuf, Syedna Mahmud, p. 191].

Thereafter, he claimed to be Musleh-eMaud [the Promised Reformer].

(Research by a panel of scholars at the Research Cell, Rabwah. Translated by Fateh Alam, UK)

Continued from page 6

less time connecting with peers in person and far more time connecting electronically, principally through social media. The less we attempt to connect with human beings in a deep, empathetic way, the less benefits of social interaction one gains) • Memory problems (People who log on and share their experiences on social media form less accurate memories of real time events themselves. This is because they pay lesser attention to actual ongoing events, hence the authentic memory is inadequately registered and more often forgotten) • Super saturation and exhaustion (An overwhelming amount of information causes mental stress and confusion; one feels exhausted and perplexed by the amount of data to be perceived) The emotional symptoms include the feeling of guilt and low selfesteem, poor gratitude due to constant comparing one’s lives to that of others, anxiety, restlessness about one’s looks and behaviours, moodiness, irritability (especially when trying to cut down the use of internet or social media), isolation due to social withdrawal, fear of being left out or fear of being forgotten, inability to prioritise or keep up with schedules or deadlines, feelings of exhilaration and jubilation when in front of smartphones or tablets and inappropriate eating behaviours especially binging on foods while using internet platforms.

Studies show that internet addiction is quite common among teens and young adults who are suffering from depression. It is viewed by them as an escape from depressive thoughts.

Even being stressed or unhappy can contribute to the development of internet addiction and is sustained as a form of dysfunctional coping. People lacking in emotional and psychological support often turn to internet or social media to fill in their needs. Overly shy and timid people who cannot easily relate to their peers are also among those who are at higher risk.

Certain neuroimaging studies have shown a striking resemblance in brain functioning among online addicts and substance abusers, so individuals who have a history of substance addiction are more prone to have internet addiction as a co-occurring problem.

We usually shy away from discussing one increasingly significant and pervasive role in our society.

Pornography is considered to be one of the major causes behind

internet addiction, and social media platforms are not doing enough to protect the younger generations from its harmful effects. Pornographic websites resembling cyber termites are rapidly eating away at the innocent foundations of our society.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa has also mentioned in a few of his Friday Sermons how pornography is potentially destructive to individuals and couples.

More abusive and violent pornography shapes attitudes about gender and sexuality and can negatively affect and harm others. Many sexually violent crimes committed by psychopathic killers have their roots in pornography.

Studies show that a frequency of pornography use may miswire reward circuits in the brain, causing sexual dysfunction and reinforcing dependence on porn. What is more alarming is that children below the age of 16 are exposed to its deterring effects.

It is highly imperative that governments and NGOs take stringent action against these websites.

What can one do?

1.Try introspection – the first step in treatment is to recognise that a problem exists 2. Check that preoccupation with the internet and social media is not a hurdle in your work, school performance and personal relationships in any way 3. Ask yourself each time whether you need to be online longer to be satisfied 4. Check whether you feel moody, sad, irritable or restless when you stop or decrease internet usage 5. Ensure you do not conceal the extent of internet usage from your family and friends 6. Ask yourself whether the internet serves as an escape from real life problems If you answer positively to all 6 steps above, it may be indicative of an obstruction.

Any addiction is no laughing matter.

It affects not only the addict but also everyone around them. If you think you cannot manage it alone and need external help, please contact a certified addictions counsellor, trained in identification and treatment of internet addiction. Help them help you get back on the road from an addiction to a free lifestyle.

“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

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Friday Sermon 11 January 2019 Delivered from Baitul Futuh Mosque

Men of Excellence After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

H

azrat Khallad bin Amr bin Jamuhra Ansari was amongst the Companionsra of the Holy Prophetsa who participated in the Battle of Badr.

He joined the Battle of Badr along with his father Hazrat Amr bin Jamuhra and his brothers Hazrat Mu‘azra, Hazrat Abu Aimanra and Hazrat Mu‘awwazra. It is also said regarding Hazrat Abu Aimanra that he was not his brother but the freed slave of his father, Hazrat Amrra bin Jamu. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 1, p. 184, Khallad Bin Amrra, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) When the Holy Prophetsa set out for the Battle of Badr, he, along with his army, camped at Suqya, which is situated on the outskirts of Medina.

Hazrat Abdullahra bin Qatadah narrates from his father that the Messengersa of Allah offered the prayer at Suqya, a place on the outskirts of Medina, where there was also a well and he prayed for the people of Medina.

Hazrat Addira bin Abi Al-Zaghba and Hazrat Basbasra bin Amr came to the Holy Prophetsa at that same location where they had camped, and according to other narrations, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Amr bin Haram also came to see the Holy Prophetsa. They submitted: “O Messengersa of Allah! You camping here and assessing the strength of the army is indeed an excellent thing and we consider this as a good omen. The reason for this is because when the battle between us, i.e. Banu Salama, and Ahle-Husaiqa took place, we camped at this exact same location.” He is referring to an earlier incident prior to the advent of Islam. “On the outskirts of Medina there is a mountain called Zubab, and Husaiqa was situated not too far from there, where a lot of Jews resided.”

He further states: “It was at this location that we also carried out an assessment of our army and only permitted those who possessed the strength for fighting. Those who did not carry the strength to hold a weapon were sent back. Thereafter we advanced towards the Jews of Husaiqa. At the time, the Jews of Husaiqa wielded the most influence over the rest of the Jews. We then killed them in whichever manner we could.”

A huge battle took place between them. It was for this reason that he said to the Holy Prophetsa: “O Messengersa of Allah! I am hopeful

that when we are up against the Quraish, God Almighty will grant your eyes comfort in relation to them, i.e. you will be granted victory just as we were granted victory before.”

Hazrat Khallad bin Amrra relates: “At sunrise, I went to my family in Khurba.”

Khurba is the name of the area where there were houses of Banu Salama. He further states: “My father, Hazrat Amr bin Jamuhra, said, ‘I thought, you had left already.’”

mentioned to the Holy Prophetsa, he said: ُ ْ َ ‫َربِح ال َب ْیع‬ Meaning, this bargain was very profitable.” (Kitab-ul-Maghazi, Vol. 1, pp.

37-38, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2013) (Mujam-ul-Baldan, Vol. 3, p. 258, Suqya, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut) (Wafa-ul-Wafa, Vol. 3, p. 1200, Khurba, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1984) (Lughat-ul-Hadith, Vol. 1, p. 82, Auqia, Ali Asif Printer, Lahore, 2005) Hazrat Khallad’sra father, Hazrat Amr

In the earlier narration, it mentioned that the father, Amr bin Jamuh, also participated in the Battle of Badr.

However, from this narration and later narrations, we find that he in fact did not participate.

“I told him [i.e. his father] that the Holy Prophetsa is inspecting and assessing the numbers in the fields of Suqya. Upon this, Hazrat Amrra said, ‘What a great omen it is! By Allah, I am hoping that you would attain the spoils of war and a victory over the Idolaters of the Quraish.

The day we marched towards Husaiqah, we also camped at that same place.’”

He is also confirming the earlier narration, which has been mentioned previously regarding the battle that took place between them and the Jews.

Hazrat Khalladra narrates: “The Holy Prophetsa changed the name of Husaiqa to Suqya. I had the desire in my heart to purchase the plot of land in Suqya. However, Hazrat Sa‘d bin Abi Waqqasra had already purchased it before me in exchange of two camels.” According to other sources, he had purchased it for seven Auqia of silver i.e. two hundred and eighty dirhams. “When this matter was

bin Jamuhra did not participate in the Battle of Badr. Hazrat Khalladra, his father, Hazrat Amr bin Jamuhra and Hazrat Abu Aimanra participated in the Battle of Uhud and all three attained martyrdom during this battle. (Mustadrak Ala Al-Sahihain, Vol. 3, p. 226, Kitab Marifatu Al-Sahaba, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) In other words, he himself, his brother and his father; all three participated in the Battle of Uhud. However, his father did not participate in the Battle of Badr.

Although he desired to participate, however, due to his leg – he had a limp and was physically impaired in one leg – his sons stopped him from participating in the Battle of Badr.

In relation to Hazrat Khallad’sra father, Hazrat Amr bin Jamuhra, it is mentioned that on the occasion of Badr, when the Holy Prophetsa urged [the Muslims] to participate in Jihad, Amr’s sons stopped him from taking part in the battle due to an injury to his foot. God Almighty has also exempted those that are handicapped from participating in battle. For this reason, his sons also told him not to participate and said that since four of his sons were going to fight, what need

was there for him to go; especially since God Almighty had already excused him.

Hence, despite his heartfelt desire, he did not participate in the Battle of Badr upon the advice of his sons. However, when the Battle of Uhud took place, Amrra said to his sons, “Since you did not allow me to participate in the Battle of Badr, now that the Battle of Uhud is about to take place, you will not be able to stop me this time.

I will most certainly go and participate in Uhud.”

In any case, he said to them that they would not be able to prevent him and that he would certainly participate. Upon this, his children tried to stop him due to his disability. However, he went to the Holy Prophetsa himself in order to seek permission from him. Hence, he presented himself before the Holy Prophetsa and submitted: “My sons are trying to stop me from participating in Jihad once again. At first, they stopped me from taking part in the Battle of Badr and now they are again not allowing me to go to Uhud. I wish to participate in this Jihad alongside you.” He further said: “By God! I am hopeful that God Almighty will accept my heartfelt desire and grant me martyrdom and that I will enter paradise with this handicapped foot of mine.”

The Holy Prophetsa replied, “O Amr! There is no doubt that God Almighty has excused you owing to your disability and Jihad has not been made obligatory upon you.” The Holy Prophetsa then said to his sons, “You should not prevent him from performing virtuous deeds. If this is his heartfelt desire, then allow him to fulfil it. Perhaps God Almighty will grant him martyrdom.”

Hence, Hazrat Amrra took hold of his weapons and set off towards the field of Uhud whilst reciting the following prayer: َ ْ َ ٰ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ ُ ْ َّ ُ ّ ٰ َ ‫اللھم ارزق ِنی شھ‬ ‫ادۃ َولا ت ُر ّدنِ ْی اِلی اھلِ ْی خائِ ًبا‬ That is, “O Allah! Grant me martyrdom and do not allow me to return to my family in a state of failure.” God Almighty accepted his supplication and he attained martyrdom there. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 4, pp. 195-196, Khallad bin Amrra, Dar-ulKutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) The mother of Hazrat Khalladra was Hazrat Hind bint Amrra (Amr was her father’s name as well as the name of her husband) and she was the paternal aunt of Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullahra. On the occasion of the battle of Uhud, she carried

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM her husband, her son and her brother on a camel after they were martyred. However, when the instruction was issued with regard to them, they were brought back to Uhud and buried there. (Asaba, Vol. 2, p. 287, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) When she found out that they had been martyred, she brought them to Medina, but later brought them back [to Uhud]. The details of this incident have been given further on.

It was the Will of God Almighty that the martyrs of Uhud should be buried in Uhud. The details of this incident are as follows: “Hazrat Aishara left her home with some women of Medina in order to acquire information about the battle of Uhud. At that time, the commandments regarding the veil had not yet been revealed. When Hazrat Aishara reached Harra, she met Hind bint Amrra, who was the sister of Hazrat Abdullah bin Amrra.

Hazrat Hind at the time was ushering her camel forwards. The bodies of her husband, Hazrat Amr bin Jamuhra, her son, Hazrat Khallad bin Amrra and her brother, Hazrat Abdullah bin Amrra were placed on this camel. Hazrat Aishara enquired about the situation on the battlefield and asked her, ‘Do you have any information of the circumstances of those whom you have left behind?’ Hazrat Hindra replied, ‘The Holy Prophetsa is fine and after him, all difficulties are easy to bear’, meaning that if the Holy Prophetsa was alive, then nothing else mattered. Following this, Hazrat Hindra recited the following verse: َ َ َ َّ ّٰ َ ْ ّٰ َ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ ‫َو َر ّد الل ُه ال ِذيْ َن كف ُر ْوا بِغ ْي ِظ ِه ْم ل َ ْم يَ ٰنالوْا خي ًرا َوكفى الل ُه ال ُم ْؤ ِم ِني َن‬ َ َ ً ّ َ ً ‫ان الل ُه قو ّيا عز‬ َ ‫ال َوك‬ َ ‫ال ْ ِق َت‬ ‫يزا‬ ِ ِ “That is, ‘And Allah turned back the disbelievers in their rage; they gained no good. And Allah sufficed the believers in their fight. And Allah is Powerful, Mighty.’

(Surah al-Ahzab: V.26) Hazrat Aishara enquired who was on the camel. Upon this, Hazrat Hindra replied that it was her brother, her son, Khalladra, and her husband, Amr bin Jamuhra. Hazrat Aishara then asked, ‘where are you taking them?’ She replied, ‘I am taking them to Medina in order to bury them.’

“Again, she ushered her camel to move forward, however the camel sat down on the same place. Hazrat Aishara said that it was carrying too much weight. Upon this, Hazrat Hindra replied, ‘It has the strength to carry the load of two camels, but at this moment in time it is acting in complete contrast to this.’ She then rebuked the camel upon which it stood up. When she turned it towards the direction of Medina, it sat down again. However, when she turned it towards the direction of Uhud, it started to move quickly. Following this, Hazrat Hindra went to the Holy Prophetsa and related this incident to him. The Holy Prophetsa said that the camel had been assigned [to fulfil this task]. That is, God Almighty had appointed it for the very task of not returning to Medina and turning back to Uhud. The Holy Prophetas then asked, ‘Did your husband

9 say anything before he left for battle?’ She replied, ‘When Amrra was about to set off in the direction of Uhud, he turned towards the Qibla [direction of Ka‘bah in Mecca] and said, “O Allah! Do not bring me back to my family in a state of disgrace and grant me martyrdom.”’ Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘This was the very reason the camel was not moving.’

The Holy Prophetsa then said, ‘O Ansar [Muslim natives of Medina]! There are such pious individuals among you that if they take an oath in the name of God, He will most certainly fulfil that prayer and Amr bin Jamuhra was also one of those.’

“The Holy Prophetsa then said to Hindra, wife of Amr bin Jamuhra, ‘O Hind!

From the moment your brother was martyred, the angels have covered him in their shade waiting to know where his burial will take place.’ The Holy Prophetsa remained [in Uhud] until all the martyrs were buried. Then he stated, ‘O Hindra!

Amr bin Jamuhra, your son, Khalladra, and your brother, Abdullahra are all together in paradise.’ Upon this, Hindra requested, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! Please pray for me that God Almighty may also grant me their companionship.’” (Kitab-ulMaghazi, Vol. 1, pp. 232-233, Ghazwa-eUhud, Darul Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2013) The second companion who will be mentioned today is Hazrat Uqbah bin Aamirra. The name of his mother is Fuqaihah bint Sakanra and his father was Aamir bin Naabi. His mother had accepted the Holy Prophetsa as well and had the honour of pledging allegiance to him. Hazrat Uqbah bin Aamirra was amongst the first six Ansar who accepted Islam in Mecca and later took the pledge of allegiance during the first Bai‘at that took place at Aqabah. (Al-Tabaqaat-ulKubra, Vol. 3, p. 428, Uqbah bin Aamirra, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 8, p. 301, Fuqaihah bint Sakanra, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The details of this incident have been written by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin [The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophetssa] in which he explains how the message of Islam reached Medina through the efforts of the Holy Prophetsa: “During the Ashhur-e-Hurum [sacred months in Islam], as per his custom, while the Holy Prophetsa was visiting tribes, he found that a renowned man from Yathrab, Suwaid bin Samit was staying in Mecca. Suwaid was a famous man from Medina, who on account of his courage, generosity and other qualities was called ‘Kamil’; he was also a poet. Ascertaining his whereabouts, the Holy Prophetsa reached his encampment and invited him to Islam. He said, ‘I also possess a special book named Mujallah Luqman.’

The Holy Prophetsa responded, ‘Let me hear a portion of it as well,’ upon which he recited a portion of this scripture. The Holy Prophetsa praised it saying, ‘There are good things in it, but the book which I possess is extraordinarily exalted and sublime.’ As such, the Holy Prophetsa

recited a portion of the Holy Quran to him. When the Holy Prophetsa finished, he said, ‘Indeed, this is a very good book.’

Although he did not become a Muslim, he completely agreed with the Holy Prophetsa and did not reject him. Alas, after his return to Medina, he did not receive much respite, and was killed in a conflict. This is prior to the Battle of Buaath.

“After that, during the same era, that is, prior to the Battle of Buaath, the Holy Prophetsa was visiting tribes during the occasion of Hajj, when he suddenly spotted a few men. These people were from the Aus tribe, and had come to seek help from the Quraish against their idolatrous rivals, the Khazraj. This occurrence is also prior to the Battle of Buaath, thus, their seeking assistance was a part of their preparations of war. The Holy Prophetsa went to them and invited them to Islam. Upon hearing his address, a young man named Iyas could not restrain himself and said, ‘By God, to which this man (Muhammadsa) calls us, is greater than that for which we have come here.’ (I.e. it is better to turn towards to God rather than our plea to assist us with the war.) But the chieftain of that group took a handful of pebbles and threw them at his face, saying, ‘Be quiet!

We have not come here for this purpose!’ and in this manner the matter was disposed of. However, it is written that when Iyas returned to his homeland and was about to die, the words of the Kalimah [Muslim declaration of faith] were upon his tongue.

“Sometime afterwards, when the Battle of Buaath had taken place, in Rajab 11 Nabawi, the Holy Prophetsa happened to meet the people of Yathrab once again.

(This happened in the 11th year of his prophethood.) When the Holy Prophetsa enquired as to their genealogy, he found that they belonged to the Khazraj, and had come from Yathrab. In an extremely loving tone, the Holy Prophetsa said to them, ‘Can you people listen to a few things I have to say?’ They said, ‘Yes, what do you say?’ The Holy Prophetsa took a seat and invited them to Islam, recited a few verses of the Holy Quran and informed them of his mission. These people looked at each other and said, ‘This is our opportunity, lest the Jews excel us,’ and saying this, they all became Muslim. These were six people, whose names are as follows: 1. Abu Umamah As‘ad bin Zurarahra who was from the Banu Najjar, and was the very first in his affirmation 2. Auf bin Harithra who was also from the Banu Najjar, which was the tribe of the maternal kindred of Abdul-Muttalib, the grandfather of the Holy Prophetsa 3. Rafi bin Malikra who was from the Banu Zuraiq. On this occasion, the Holy Prophetsa bestowed the entirety of the Holy Quran to him, which had been revealed thus far 4. Qutbah bin Aamirra who was from the Bani Salamah 5. Uqbah bin Aamirra who was from the Bani Haram (the incident is in relation to him); Uqbah bin Aamirra was a Badri Companion 6. Jabir bin Abdullah bin Riaabra who was

from the Bani Ubaid “After this, these people took leave of the Holy Prophetsa and upon their departure, said: ‘We have been greatly weakened by civil war, and there are many disagreements between us. We shall go to Yathrab and preach Islam to our brothers.

How remarkable would it be that Allah the Exalted may gather us again through you! Then we shall be fit to assist you in every way.’

“Therefore, these people left, and due to them, Islam began to find popularity in Yathrab.

“This year was spent in Mecca by the Holy Prophetsa in concern and anticipation for the people of Yathrab with regard to their physical means. The Holy Prophetsa would often think, ‘Let us see the outcome of these six converts, and if there are any signs of success in Yathrab or not?’ For the Muslims as well, with respect to physical means, this era was one of concern and anticipation. At times, there would be a flicker of hope, and at times no hope at all.

They saw that the leaders of Mecca and the chieftains of Taif had sternly rejected the mission of the Holy Prophetsa, and one by one, the various tribes of Arabia had also put a stamp on their condemnation.

A ray of hope began to shine in Medina, but who could figure that this ray of light could stand before storms of affliction and torture, against the cyclones of hardship?

“On the other hand, the cruelties of the Meccans were growing day by day, for they understood well that now was the time to erase Islam. But even in this delicate era (such a vulnerable era had not befallen Islam), the Holy Prophetsa and his Companions stood in their place like a firm mountain. At times, the determination and steadfastness of the Holy Prophetsa would even put his enemies to astonishment: after all, what kind of inner-strength does this man possess? For nothing seems to move him from his place.

Rather, in that era, the words of the Holy Prophetsa especially possessed a kind of power and awe. (When the Holy Prophetsa would speak, he would do so with power and awe) and in these fierce storms, the Holy Prophetsa would become even more courageous. On one side, if this sight astonished the Quraish, on the other, it also made their hearts tremble. With regards to these days, Sir William Muir writes: ‘Mohammad thus holding his people at bay; waiting in the still expectation of victory; to outward appearance defenceless, and with his little band (i.e. the followers of the Holy Prophetsa) as it were in the lion’s mouth; yet trusting in His Almighty power whose Messenger he believed himself to be, resolute and unmoved’ “Sir William Muir further says: ‘Mohammad stood unmoved with such determination that nothing could displace him. This presents a spectacle of sublimity paralleled only by such scenes in the Sacred Records as that of the prophet of Israel when he complained to his master, ‘I, even I only, am left.’

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

10 “He further writes: ‘Nay, seeing Mohammad in this manner is in one point of view even more amazing than the prophets of Israel. The following words of Mohammad were said on this occasion: “O my people! Work ye in your place. Wait in expectation; WE too in expectancy are waiting.”’

“Therefore, this was a vulnerable era for Islam, in that there was no expectancy from the Meccans. But a ray of hope was developing in Medina, and the Holy Prophetsa keenly had his eyes set in that direction. Would Medina also reject the Holy Prophetsa like Mecca and Taif, or did it hold a different destiny? Therefore, when the occasion of Hajj came, the Holy Prophetsa very avidly left his home and reached Aqabah, near Mina, and looked here and there. Suddenly, the Holy Prophetsa noticed a small group of the people of Yathrab, who immediately recognised the Holy Prophetsa. They came forward and met the Holy Prophetsa with extreme love and sincerity. This time there were twelve people, among whom five were converts of the previous year and seven were new. They belonged to both the Aus and the Khazraj. Their names are as follows: 1. 1. Abu Umamah As‘ad bin Zurarahra 2. Auf bin Harithra 3. Rafi‘ bin Malikra 4. Qutbah bin Amirra 5. Uqbah bin Amirra (Uqbah bin Aamir came this year aswell. The incidents are being narrated about his life, he returned for the Hajj this year as well) 6. Mu‘adh bin Harithra, who was from the Bani Najjar 7. Zakwan bin Abdi Qaisra from the Banu Zariq tribe 8. Abu Abdur-Rahman Yazid bin Tha‘labahra from the Bani Bali tribe 9. Ubadah bin Samit who was from the Bani Auf branch of the Khazraj tribe 10. Abbas bin Ubadah bin Nadlah from the Bani Salim tribe 11. Abul-Haitham bin Tayyihan from the Bani Abdil-Ashhal and 12. Uwaim bin Sa‘idah who was from the Bani ‘Amr bin Auf clan of the Aus tribe.

“The Holy Prophetsa met these people separately in a valley. They informed him as to the state of affairs in Yathrab and this time they all took Bai‘at at his hand. This Bai‘at served as a foundation stone for Islam in Medina. Since Jihad of the sword had not yet been ordained, the Holy Prophetsa took Bai‘at only in the words in which he would take Bai‘at from the women after Jihad (by the sword) was obligated. In other words, ‘We shall believe in one God, shall not associate partners with God, shall not steal, shall not commit adultery or fornication, shall abstain from murder, shall not defame anyone, and shall obey you [the Holy Prophetsa] in everything good.’ After the Bai‘at, the Holy Prophetsa said: ‘If you remain true to this pledge in honesty and steadfastness then you shall receive paradise. But if you show weakness then your matter is with Allah the Exalted, for He shall do what He wills.’

“In history, this Bai‘at is renowned as ‘The First Bai‘at at Aqabah’, because the place where this Bai‘at was taken was called Aqabah, which is situated between Mecca and Mina. The literal meaning of Aqabah is an elevated mountainous pass.

“Whilst departing from Mecca, these twelve new Muslim converts requested, ‘Please send an Islamic tutor with us, who can teach us Islam and can preach Islam to our idolatrous brothers as well.’ The Holy Prophetsa sent Mus‘ab bin Umairra, a very devout young man from the AbdudDar tribe along with them. An Islamic preacher was referred to as a Qari or Muqri in those days, because the majority of their work was to recite the Holy Quran, as this was the best method of preaching.

As such, Mus‘abra was also renowned by the name Muqri in Yathrab. The second Bai‘at at Aqabah took place in 13 Nabawi and 70 Ansar participated in it.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 221-225 & 227) Hazrat Uqba bin Amirra participated in all the battles alongside the Holy Prophetsa including the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He was noticeable in his armour on the day of Uhud because of his green clothes. He was martyred in 12 Hijri during the battle of Yamama which took place during the Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakrra. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 428, Uqba bin Amirra, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hazrat Uqba bin Amirra states: “I came before the Holy Prophetsa with my son who was very young at the time. I said to the Prophetsa of Allah ‘May my parents be sacrificed for your sake, please teach my son those prayers which he can recite before God and acquire His blessings.’ The Holy Prophetsa stated: ‘O child! Recite: ُ ُ ً ْ ً َّ َ ُ َ ْ َ ّ َ ُ ّ ٰ َ ‫ان َو َاِیْ َمانا ِف ْی ُح ْس ِن خل ٍق َو‬ ٍٗ ‫اللھ ّم اِنِی اسئلک ِصح َۃ ِفی اِی َم‬ ٌ َ‫احا ی َ ْت َب ُعہ نج‬ ً ‫َصل‬ ‫اح‬ Which means, “O Allah! I seek wellbeing in my state of faith and good disposition whilst in my state of faith, and pray for success after attaining virtue.”

(Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 4, p. 25, Uqba bin Amirra, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) May Allah Almighty continuously elevate the ranks of the Companionsra.

After this, I will now mention a pioneering noble Ahmadi woman from America and will also lead her funeral prayers after the Friday prayers. Her name was Sister Aaliyah Shaheed Sahiba, wife of the late Ahmad Shaheed Sahib.

She passed away on 26 December. God Almighty had bestowed her with a long life and enabled her to serve [the Jamaat] and also protected her from any form of handicap. She was 105 years old. May Allah Almighty exalt her rank. َ ‫ِانَّا ل ِ ّٰل ِہ َو ِانَّا ِال َ ْی ِہ‬ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ‫ر‬ ِ ‘To Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.’

Amir Sahib USA has written about her that she pledged allegiance in 1936, and from 1963-66, served at sadr Lajna [national president of the ladies auxiliary organisation]. Similarly, her services spanned 50 years in which she had the

opportunity to serve in various capacities, including general secretary to secretary finance and secretary talim, secretary of khidmat-e-khalq and sadr Lajna Muqami. She always maintained a strong connection with the Jamaat and Khilafat, and always remained ready for every type of sacrifice. She was an extremely kind and loving woman. She had committed to memory the early accounts of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya USA, which she often used to narrate.

She also had the opportunity to invite Sir Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahibra to her home for dinner. Her husband, respected Ahmad Shaheed Sahib, also served in the national amila of USA and as the president of the Pittsburgh Jamaat. Among those she left behind is her only son Umar Shaheed Sahib, who, for the last 18 years, has been serving as the sadr of Pittsburgh Jamaat.

She was an African American.

The National President of Lajna USA writes about sister Aaliyah: “Her lifestyle, her words, and her every action demonstrated that she acted in complete accordance with her pledge of allegiance which she had made 76 years ago. Her services were not just limited to USA. In fact, she was known for her services all over the world.”

The national branches of the Lajna Auxiliary for every country used to be centralised under the sadr Lajna of Pakistan, at which time Hazrat Maryam Siddiqa Sahiba, who was the wife of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, served as sadr Lajna of the entire world. Even she praised the late Aaliyah Sahiba’s contributions. Sadr Sahiba Lajna USA continues by saying: “Her name before converting was Ella Louise, and her fiancé’s name was William Frank Browning, who was an active member of the African Methodist Church. They were busy in their wedding preparations and their wedding was soon to take place when her fiancé received the message of Ahmadiyyat, and along with his parents, he converted to Ahmadiyyat.

After this he changed his name to Ahmad Shaheed. Although she got married, however she did not perform the Bai’at.

Soon after, Ahmad Shaheed Sahib was elected as the president of Pittsburgh Jamaat. Not only was he very popular in his local Jamaat but his tabligh efforts earned him repute all over the country.

Around the same time they had a son whom he named Umar.

“Aaliyah Sahiba lived with her Ahmadi in-laws, and without telling them or her husband, she secretly began reading the Jamaat’s literature. During this time, she came across Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra book entitled Ahmadiyyat or the True Islam and this had a deep effect on her.

“After this she started partaking in the tarbiyat classes that were organised in her home. Then, one day, she heard a lecture of Bengali Sahib – Abdur Rahman Bengali – who was serving as a missionary there at the time, which was on the Promised Messiah’s teaching that Jesusas was saved from the cross and subsequently migrated to Kashmir.”

Sadr Lajna USA writes: “The late sister

Aaliyah used to tell us that after this, she stopped attending the church and began coming to the mosque instead. Finally, in 1936, she accepted Ahmadiyyat.

Explaining how she chose the name Aaliyah for herself, she said that she saw the name in a book once and liked it so she adopted it after becoming an Ahmadi.

She was always in search of knowledge.

She spent her time in the upkeep of the mosque, cooking, offering daily prayers.

It was not the case that she only tried to gain knowledge, but she humbly used to perform Waqar-e-Amal, and serve the Jamaat with her own hands. She would perform the duty of cleaning the mosque and cooking.”

Sadr Sahiba further writes: “We always saw her offering prayers, and she was a woman of extremely high morals; she was often seen visiting and looking after the sick. We also witnessed her offering financial contributions. Among the Lajna, she was always enjoining others towards good in one way or another. She strived to her utmost in promoting unity and sisterhood of the members of Lajna, for which she wrote numerous individual letters to members of Lajna in her final days.” Sadr Lajna further writes: “There was one verse of the Holy Quran that she used to often repeat, which I have heard from her as well, َ ٌ َ ْ ُ ْ ُ َّ َ َ ًّ َ ْ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َ ُ َ ْ َّ ُّ ُ َ ّٰ َّ ‫ان ّم ْر ُصوْ ٌص‬ ‫ِان اللہ ی ِحب ال ِذین یقا ِتلون فِی س ِبی ِل ٖہ صفا کانھم بنی‬ “She reports that she would always repeat this. That is, ‘Verily, Allah loves those who fight in His cause arrayed in solid ranks, as though they were a strong structure cemented with molten lead.’

Sadr Lajna has further written: “She was the first one to establish the Mosque Fund in the United States of America. Similarly, she started the Muslims Student Scholarship Award.

The first annual Ijtema was held under her tenure as sadr Lajna. Similarly, she started the National Tabligh Day in which Lajna members would send thousands of copies of the Holy Quran, introductory leaflets and pamphlets of the Jamaat to libraries across the country.

She also started a magazine and Hazrat (Choti Apa) Mariyam Siddiqah – the then International Sadr Lajna – chose Aishah as its title. She also published constitutional guidelines for the Lajna titled Our Duties and The Path of Faith.

As a result of her initiative, members of Lajna in the United States presented great sacrifices for the Denmark mosque project. Likewise, they presented funds for the refurbishment of the mission houses in Baltimore as well as Pittsburgh.”

Sadr Lajna further states: “Sister Aaliyah would tell us that during her time, since 98% of Lajna members had recently done the Bai‘at and joined the Jamaat, therefore in the beginning, they would only enjoin them to offer the five daily prayers and keep fasts in the month of Ramadan. Thus, instead of making them wear the Hijab from the outset, for the first few years, she said she would start by bringing their attention to wearing appropriate clothing, telling

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM them to first wear modest clothing. Then the next step would be to wear the Hijab.”

This is unlike a trend that has started here nowadays that those even wearing the Hijab have started taking it off. She, on the other hand, would morally train them by gradually taking them from one step to the next.

“Then, Sister Aaliyah put great effort in teaching the recitation of the Quran by preparing daily teaching programmes.

Likewise, those Lajna members who would finish learning the recitation of the Holy Quran, she would advise them to read a portion of the exegesis on a daily basis. It was through Aaliyah Sahiba’s efforts that the educational syllabus for the Nasirat was made. As a result, a desire to further learn religious knowledge was borne in the Nasirat. The deceased played a huge role in instilling in the members of Lajna and Nasirat with the spirit of sacrifice. She would similarly keep all accounts of the financial contributions in a very professional manner.

“When once, she was asked regarding the difficulties she faced after joining the Jamaat; she replied that ‘upon joining the Jamaat, I faced great difficulties. But instead of demonstrating weakness, I have always strived to show perseverance and remain content with the will of God Almighty. This is in fact the very lesson I have been teaching Lajna members for over fifty years.’”

She further writes, “Her character was like a minaret of resolve in which we all found guidance.”

She then writes: “Her belief in the final victory of Islam was of absolute certainty. She would say that when the victory of Islam shall occur, the famous motto and slogan of the Jamaat, ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’ would reign supreme in the world.

Likewise, she had complete faith in the institution of Khilafat and considered it as the key to the victory of Islam. She would always say that the institution of Khilafat shall remain firmly established and with it shall come the victory of Islam, Godwilling.”

She then writes: “It was this message that she – through hundreds of letters and phone calls – would give and explain to Lajna and

11 Nasirat members with great effort.

“On 23 March 2008 she spoke to the members of Lajna saying, ‘All the followers of the Promised Messiahas around the world gathered in the mosques and mission houses on 1 January to offer the Tahajjud prayers as an act of gratitude.

Indeed, this was to be the case, because this year, it marks one hundred years since the Khilafat of our beloved Promised Messiahas was established.’ She further said, ‘O my Allah! Remove all hurdles in the progress of Ahmadiyyat and grant us that victory which You have promised us. Our Promised Messiahas has laid the foundations for this Jamaat and united us all as one body. It is due to him that we Ahmadis feel the pain of one another, help each other in times of difficulty, pray for one another, partake of the happiness of another and are aggrieved by the suffering of another. By the grace and mercy of God Almighty we are one.’

“She then wrote in her message to the new converts in Lajna Imaillah and addressed all the Lajna members present at the time, ‘It is God Almighty’s special favour and I am extremely fortunate to have witnessed the progress of the Jamaat with my own eyes. God Almighty has graced us by choosing our Jamaat for the propagation and service of Islam. Every week we have the opportunity to listen to the Khalifa of the time and by acting upon his guidance, we can attain progress in our spiritual and secular lives.’ In the end, she said, ‘I pray, O my Master! Remove all hurdles in the victory of Islam. Enable us to truly reflect our faith and grant us countless helpers.’”

Thus, in view of the circumstances there in America, she played a special role in keeping the African-American new converts together.

Her son, Umar Shaheed Sahib, President of the Pittsburgh Jamaat, writes: “Due to Ahmadiyyat and Khilafat my parents became soldiers in the defence of Islam. My mother would regularly write to you”, he wrote this to me, “and would also encourage me to write to the Khalifa.” He further writes, “Pray that my children and I are able to follow in her footsteps.” Umar Sahib then writes, “I had no idea how much love and admiration the members of the Jamaat had for until I

received countless letters expressing their sentiments about her.”

Another local American Ahmadi, sister Aaliyah Aziz Lord, writes, “Having accepted Ahmadiyyat, she (i.e. the late Aaliyah Shaheed Sahiba) lived an exemplary life as an Ahmadi. When she was serving as the talim (education) secretary, because of her, no one wanted to fail the exams that she had prepared, and thus we would all get together and prepare for the test.” She then writes, “She was much older than me, but that would not stop her in treating me as a friend.

There is one thing I noticed; whenever an academic question was posed to her, rather than giving her own opinion and mentioning additional things, she would always present the Islamic teaching. She had a strong bond with God Almighty which was something that continued to draw others towards her.”

Sister Jameela Hamid, wife of Hamid Munir Sahib, who is also a local American Ahmadi, writes, “She would show me great affection and would often express her love for me. When my mother passed away, she wrote me a letter full of words of love, which helped me understand the philosophy of death. She was like an angel. Whenever one needed help and advice she would be just a single phone call away. She would always tell me that the purpose of life should be to serve the Jamaat and to love the Khalifa of the time as he is the Hablullah [the rope of Allah] of this era. I would always envy her love for God Almighty. Once, I asked her if she was afraid of death. She replied, ‘We all have to return to our Beloved God, so what is there to be afraid of?’ She had a deep understanding of the message of the Promised Messiahas which she would impart to others throughout her life.”

Another Ahmadi, Dr Rashida Ahmad, who is also from America, states: “She herself would strictly adhere to the teachings of Islam but would advise others in a very loving manner. The love of God Almighty was reflected from her every action and deed.”

She further states: “I had the opportunity to stay at her house on several occasions and we would offer the prayers together and also recite the Holy Quran. After that, with great

love and desire, she would show me the letters she had received from the Khulafa [Khalifas] of the Jamaat. One can evidently gauge her great love for Khilafat from her poetry and speeches.” (She would write poems as well) She further states: “She demonstrated great patience. I would call her every month and enquire about her health and she never once voiced her complain about her deteriorating health, in fact she would always recall the blessings of God Almighty and express her gratitude.”

Another Ahmadi who is also from America, Sister Aziza, who is the wife of Al-Haj Rashid, states: “Sister Aaliyah Shaheed Sahiba was an embodiment of the motto, ‘Love for All, Hatred for None.’ Even though she lived in another city, however she was a close friend of my mother. After the demise of my mother, she did not end this relationship and I would always feel as if Aaliyah Sahiba knew whenever I would become lax, she would immediately send me a letter full of inspiration.”

Another Lajna member, Khulat Sahiba, writes: “I became acquainted with Aaliyah Sahiba when I first came to the USA in 1949. I was eight years old at the time when I first met her. She was extremely loving and friendly and had a personality that would leave a positive impression on others. She had an extremely longheld and strong bond with Khilafat. She would mention her correspondence in letters with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.

Her services for Lajna Imaillah USA will always be remembered. She had an astounding spiritual persona and despite being a hundred years old, she would attend the Jalsas [annual conventions] which serves as a model for us.”

May God Almighty elevate her status.

And may God Almighty instil the spirit and passion that she had to serve the Jamaat – which her son also mentioned – in her progeny as well.

(Translated by The Review of Religions) (Original Urdu sermon published in Al Fazl International, 1-7 February 2019, pp. 5-9)

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12

Friday 8 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

Book Intro

21 Lessons for the 21st Century Author: Yuval Noah Harari Publishers: Spiegel & Grau, Jonathan Cape

Nauman A Hadi

It is a peculiar place we find ourselves in as we step into a future of unchartered territory. Though mankind has been quite confident that its technological, academic and social progress will anchor it, if ever the upheavals of the past were to revisit, and though Steven Pinker would have you believe that we have never witnessed a more peaceful and prosperous time than today, yet we don’t find ourselves as relaxed as we ought to be in a world that is largely free.

What are the concerning issues of our time? What are the current global trends in technology, politics and religion? And, most importantly, how do we resolve the challenges we face as we become accustomed to a rapidly changing world?

Yuval Noah Harari has now become a familiar name. The author of Sapiens and Homo Deus returns with a third international best seller as he explores 21 pressing issues related to how technology will interfere with our lives, how politics will change as a result and what role does God now play in the 21st century?

He begins by exploring the changing socio-political landscape affected through technological change. This is interesting for a number of reasons; primarily because since the industrial revolution, never has mankind been at the threshold of such a massive change in the way it lives owed chiefly due to progress in technology.

Very true since the nature of our lives are being altered ever since technology has been playing an incredibly intimate role in them. When you couple this to the development of AI (artificial intelligence) it “confronts us with the biggest challenges humankind has ever encountered”. For instance, technology has already replaced a wide range of jobs and some believe that within a few decades, billions will become economically redundant.

A very important and pressing question naturally arises as to which system of government has the ability to successfully deal with such an upheaval? A drastic change in the nature of how we humans function in society will have far reaching implications since we live in a world where economic value is heavily attached to the standard of living.

Though we may have difficulty trying to pre-determine the full effects of technological change, something that is apparent now is the threat posed to the liberal ideology. Harari calls it a “disillusionment” to the liberal story which began after the global financial crisis of 2008.

“Resistance to immigration and to trade agreements is mounting”, he writes, pointing towards the election of Donald Trump and the rise of nationalism, and rightly so. Financial instability has played not just a role, but arguably the role in sparking into existence the pre-requisites of major conflicts.

It seems that liberal ideas are heavily rested on the foundations of Wall Street.

But when the question of the Islamic financial system as a cure to the problems we face arises, he shrugs off this idea as “it is hard to see Greece or South Africa – not to mention Canada or South Korea – joining a global caliphate as the remedy to their problems.”

It is true that the so-called caliphate of the Middle East does not represent Islam in the slightest, but it is incorrect to suggest that Islam cannot be the saviour to a sinking financial system.

The fading of belief in the liberal story seems to have people scrambling for anything that will fill the vacuum with nationalism being a prime candidate.

Harari also draws our attention to the disintegration of wider communities, he explains how “Western attempts to impose democracy and human rights on Muslim nations resulted in a violent Islamic backlash, and a wave of Muslim immigration coupled with Islamic terrorist attacks caused European voters to abandon multicultural dreams in favour of xenophobic local identities.”

If religion is to re-establish communities, according to Harari, it must cater and be able to successfully address three types of problems; technical problems (“how should farmers in arid countries deal with severe droughts caused by global warming”), policy problems and identity problems.

It is certainly true that a true faith would address the issues above (though it should address a lot more), but what is perhaps incorrect is the author’s belief that “traditional religions are irrelevant to technical and policy problems” for Islamic theology is filled with discussions on these topics, all deriving of the Holy Quran.

For example, matters of policy have been outlined in depth in the Holy Quran with guiding principles for all its offshoots. We further see a practical example of this in the life of the Founder of Islam who brought into existence the Treaty of Medina 500 years before the Magna Carta.

Harari dedicates an entire section highlighting the issues with Islamic economics claiming that when Islamic leaders make economic or policy decisions they always look towards the West before turning towards the Holy Quran to find

something similar.

He concludes with the word, “Religion doesn’t really have much to contribute to the great policy debates of our time”.

So, the question naturally arises as to where, in today’s time, do we see Islamic policies, derivative of the Holy Quran, being practiced?

The answer is not a country, but a community.

F o u n d e d in 1889, this community is an organised and structured community, which has every aspect of its administration governed by Islamic law. Its financial system rests entirely on the precepts of the Quranic verses, its system of community leadership is not based upon a Western-styled hierarchy, but resembles the way in which Hazrat Umarra established his government, with the Shura (consultative body) being an excellent example of it.

Harari perhaps has only heard of the pretend caliphate of the Middle East, but it is only in the the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat that one can find a system of true Islamic law headed by a divinely appointed Khalifa. Proof of the success of such a claim can simply be attained upon reading the history of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam.

Though the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat has no interest in worldly political gains and its aims are not to govern nations, but when political scenarios give rise to social issues, on the precepts of the state of Medina it adheres to the same Islamic principles and policies.

The chapter on God is also lacking a full understanding of the concept of Divinity. It is unfair to suggest that “we do not know the answers to these questions, and we give our ignorance the grand name of God”, for there are many that base their beliefs in direct experience with God.

One cannot help conclude that a staunch atheistic perspective has been given the garb of reality – as if we all agree to his statement: “We cannot say anything concrete about Him”. Harari’s narrative is more of an open attack against God as opposed to a discussion.

It is such matters that draw credibility away from his entire thesis because it is incredibly vital to judge the problems that we face in the 21st century from an unbiased viewpoint – otherwise it just becomes an atheist’s version of the challenges we will face.

21 Lessons for the 21st Century is, no doubt, a worthwhile read as it highlights the pressing matters that we will face in the years to come. The issues touched upon above are but a few of the numerous mentioned in the book.

Though the conclusions and solutions offered by the author may not sit well with everyone, they are certainly food for thought and add to the ever-growing voice of those who believe that mankind is at a crossroads with its step being swayed towards anarchy of a colossal size.

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