Al Hakam - 13 April 2018

33rd Jalsa, Australia

Turning Point in History

The Fourth Khilafat

Australia Annual Convention held from 30 March to 1 April

Part II of the momentous decision which changed the course of history

Milestones in the time of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrt

From the Archives Letter from the Northern Border of Spain

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THE WEEKLY

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www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 13 April 2018 | Issue IV Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK. info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Truth Brings Tranquility

Hazrat Hassan ibn Alira relates that he learnt the following from the Holy Prophetsa: “Leave alone that which involves you in doubt and adhere to that which is free from doubt, for truth is comforting and falsehood is disturbing.”

Jami‘ Al-Tirmidhi

Breaking All Idols Friday Sermon from Valencia

Baitur Rahman Mosque in Valencia, Spain

6 April, Valencia azrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the Friday Sermon from Baitur Rehman Mosque on 6 April.

Huzooraa stated that while many Ahmadis had come to Spain to seek political asylum and many others continued to arrive, they should always remember that no false statements

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should be filed to support their claim of asylum.

The nature of the persecution in Pakistan is such that needs no exaggeration to satisfy the authorities to accept them as refugees.

Huzooraa said that falsehood has been condemned by God Almighty as a form of idol-worship. Hence, the purpose of an Ahmadi should be to break all idols

and only seek help from Allah.

The Promised Messiahas emphasised that his followers should abstain from worshipping any idol, whether literal or symbolic. Allah has clearly told us that the sole purpose of our creation is to worship Him alone; this also means that we should never bow before anything or anyone else

in seeking help.

Huzooraa said that every Ahmadi carries the responsibility to first understand the purpose of our creation and then to make it known to others.

Huzooraa quoted the Promised Messiahas where he clearly stated that merely saying the words of the Bai’at (the pledge) is of no value; what is important is that one understands the

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Times Are Changing

Sheaven for spreading Divine light. Blessings are

o be grateful that preparations are being made in

also stirring up in the earth. You are witnessing an ease in travel and movement that was not known to your parents and grandparents.

It is as if this is a new world. Fruits are available out of season, trips that once took six months can now be completed in days, news is instantly

transmitted thousands of miles and there are devices and machines to assist with every task.

If you wish, you can travel by train with the same comfort that you would have in an orchard at your home. Has the earth not undergone a revolution?

Just as there is an astounding upheaval on earth, God also wills that an astounding upheaval take place in the heavens.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, The British Government and Jihad, pp.

19-20)

actual purpose behind it, and that is to progress in taqwa (fear of Allah).

Huzooraa drew the attention of Ahmadis to the fact that as world-peace speedily heads towards instability, there is no true refuge but only in having a strong relationship with our Creator.

(To listen to this Friday Sermon, visit www.mta.tv) ___________ _______

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“Burn the Boats” or “Turn the Tables”

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hmadis all around the world listened to Huzoor’saa recent Friday Sermon from Valencia, Spain on MTA International.

We have become so used to watching Huzooraa on MTA that rarely do we stop to think about what it has taken to get to this blessed point.

Let’s go half a century back in history and relive this faith-inspiring journey.

Leaflet from early Ahmadiyya mission in Spain

These two columns cannot tell the whole story, so let’s go to Spain.

Going through the archives of Jamaat Spain, I came across a small flyer that was printed and circulated to spread the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

The arrangement of funds and the correspondence between Karam Ilahi Zafar sahib and the Centre in Rabwah is a story in its own right. Funds would have to be arranged, sent over to Spain and then had to be spent very carefully;

every penny mattered. Then there is the letter from Karam Ilahi Zafar sahib asking Rabwah for three copies of The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam to be sent over to the Spain mission.

Then there were issues of packaging, parcelling, posting and what not. Letters were exchanged to query if tabligh [preaching] material had been sent, or that it was sent and whether it had been received or not; every letter took up to a couple of weeks to reach either end.

Enter MTA, and along comes a revolution where the delay between Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s words and it reaching the corners of the earth is merely a second – maybe two in some instances.

When Huzooraa is in London, the studios and control rooms are all well established and they operate as a matter of routine.

But when Huzoor travels, a huge cost goes into hiring satellite facilities to uplink the signal for it to get to the satellites.

Under the auspices of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, MTA has been able to acquire a portable satellite dish that travels to any place that Huzooraa travels to. It has been to Germany and even to Canada and, as you read these lines, it is in Spain. The previous Friday Sermon and the Sermon Huzoor delivered today were both broadcast live from Spain through this facility.

Astonishing it is to think how Allah has blessed His Jamaat. From printing palm-sized leaflets with great difficulty to sending satellite signals without any difficulty is something that historians of Islam in Spain will, one day, take pride in writing.

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From the Archives

Letter from the Northern Border of Spain The feelings of Ahmadi missionaries upon entering Spain

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– with the light of Islam through the advent of the Promised Messiahas; to bring to an end the global unrest and destruction; to promote fraternity and brotherhood among nations and races and to bring into use modern day technology to promote peace through the message of Islam.

aram Ilahi Zafar sahib and Maulvi Muhammad Ishaq Saqi sahib wrote to Al Fazl a letter, as they set foot on the soil of Spain for the very first time on 9 June 1946: “Hendaye is the last station of France at the border. It is by the sea, and a river from the east flows into it. Those living south of the river are part of Spain and those on the northern bank, part of France. But Hendaye Irun Bridge on the Spain-France Border those living “To achieve this purpose, we enter on either side of the river are proficient this day the land of Spain, the two of us in both French and Spanish.

“A bridge connects both sides of with, apparently, no resources. Local the river. There also is a railway bridge, people look at our turbans and our but due to tension between the two clothing with astonishment. Little do countries, the borders are closed and they know what Allah has in store to the rail does not go any further. Porters fulfil His decree.

“Tariq [bin Ziyad], with his armies carry the luggage on carts across the from Morocco and Algeria, had entered bridge, from where taxis are hired to get to the railway station of Irun which is Spain from the south… Me and my about a mile away. That is where we are companion are not entering Spain with such resources. Our only weapon is heading to.

“Spain is part of Europe; the Europe tabligh and prayer. We too are entering that has excelled incredibly in the last through a pass in the mountains but not two-hundred years. But what we should from the south; from the north. Our ask is: Where has this prosperity led victory would be to win hearts. To win a to? The world falling away from God; heart, one’s heart must be stronger.

“What is the strength of a heart? the attempts to kill mankind on earth; the destruction caused by wars; greed, That we follow the right path with piety; tyranny and oppression. All this is a that we have a cordial relationship with result of the modern civilization and God; such a heart that is full of Allah’s love will surely win other hearts. We Europe is having to live through it.

“Fourteen-hundred years ago, the request everyone to remember us in Sun of Islam rose not only to brighten prayers. Our objectives in Spain require up the Arabian lands and turn its beastly every Ahmadi to very humbly pray population into humans, or heavenly to God that He enables us to become humans rather, but it also shone upon true representatives of the Promised other lands. Spain was one of such lands. Messiahas and Hazrat Musleh Maud.”

(Al Fazl, 15 July 1946) “Today, God desires to brighten the ___________ _______ world – especially the western world Smiley.toerist | Wiki Commons

From the Markaz

There was a time when the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission in Spain had to think twice before having a handful of leaflets published. Now, under the auspices of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa a whole range of books have been translated into Spanish and are readily available at: http://www.amibookstore.us/catalogsearch/result/index/?p=3&q=spanish MTA's mobile uplink facility

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33 Jalsa Salana Australia rd

AMJ Australia

Flag Hoisting Ceremony

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Kausar sahib, conducted the inspection preceding the Jalsa Salana on 28 March.

After Jumu’ah prayers on the first day of Jalsa Salana, as per tradition, the Liwae-Ahmadiyyat (Flag of Ahmadiyyat) was hoisted, which was followed by the opening session of Jalsa. In his opening

___________ _______ AMJ Australia

he 33rd Jalsa Salana of Jamaat Australia was held from 30 March to 1 April in Masjid Baitul Huda, Sydney.

Hard work, time and dedication went into the preparation for Jalsa Salana Australia 2018. Marquees were erected, signs were put in place, and fresh grass was laid, beautifying the House of God for the guests of the Promised Messiahas.

Over 3,300 members from across Australia – including over 100 guests from 18 countries – participated. It had the second largest attendance since Jalsa Salana 2013.

Jamaat Australia’s Amir and Missionary In-Charge, Inamul Haq

address, Amir Sahib conveyed Huzoore-Anwar’saa message and prayers for the participants of Jalsa Salana.

Over the three days, various speakers delivered insightful speeches on a range of topics, including: “The Unity of God”, “Noble character of the Holy Prophetsa”, “The Promised Messiah’sas love for the Holy Prophetsa”, “Khilafat – a Divine source of unity”, “Peace through the Messiah” and “Obedience”. The recitation of the Quran was presented in melodious voices which inspired the audience, as well as Urdu poems of the Promised Messiahas that raised heartfelt slogans for Islam Ahmadiyyat, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas.

The Jalsa Bazar was setup with different food stalls. Various Jamaat departments such as Humanity First, Ta‘lim, Tabligh, Wasiyyat and Rishta Nata were also present and had marquees setup. Bookstalls and exhibitions were also another highlight of the Jalsa.

The Lord Mayor of Blacktown Council, many other Members of Parliament and guests from different walks of life also participated in different sessions of the Jalsa and appreciated the volunteer work of the Jamaat and its contributions to the broader Australia Community.

The weather was hot over the three days but volunteers did an excellent job in serving the guests of the Promised Messiahas. The Jalsa concluded on the third day with silent prayer.

Over 3,300 attendees at Australia Jalsa Salana

“O Allah, strengthen Islam with one of two men whom you love more: Amr ibn Hisham [Abu Jahl] or Umar ibn Al-Khattab.”

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org

The Companionsra

Hazrat Umarra Jalees Ahmad, London, UK

Born: 584. Mecca, Arabia Full name: Umar Ibn Al-Khattab Father: Khattab Ibn Nufayl Tribe: Quraish (Banu Adi) Background Hazrat Umarra was born 13 years after ‘Aam-ul-Fil – year of the Elephant. He was 13 years younger than the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and was among one of the respected tribes of Mecca.

Illiteracy was common in the pre-

Islamic era; not many knew how to read or write and would rely solely on memory. Hazrat Umarra however, was among the few who had learnt to read and write in his youth.

When the Holy Prophetsa was commissioned by God to spread the teachings of Islam, Hazrat Umarra, like many others in Mecca, opposed Islam.

When the people of Mecca continued to persecute the Muslims, the Holy Prophetsa ordered some of the Muslims

to migrate to Abyssinia. When Hazrat Umarra heard of this he was concerned and angry due to the division caused within the Quraish and as a result decided to kill the Holy Prophetsa.

Acceptance of Islam Hazrat Umarra left his house, sword in hand, with the intent to kill the Holy Prophetsa. As he made his way, he saw Na’eem Bin Abdullah who asked Hazrat Umarra where he was heading off to and what his intentions were. Hazrat Umarra replied that he was going out to kill the Holy Prophetsa. Naeem Bin Abdullah told Hazrat Umarra to first enquire about his own household members, as his sister, Fatimahra, and her husband had accepted Islam. Enraged at hearing this, he stormed off in the direction of his sister’s house.

He found them reciting the Holy Quran. Witnessing this Hazrat Umarra, unable to contain himself, began quarrelling with his brother-in-law. As things escalated quickly, his sister tried to stop them and by doing so Hazrat Umar’sra hand struck her face causing her to bleed. When Hazrat Umarra saw what he had done, he stopped immediately and told them to leave Islam, upon which they replied in the negative and said to him, “You may kill us but we will never leave.”

Hearing this Hazrat Umarra calmed down and asked his sister to recite a few verses from the Quran. The verses recited before Hazrat Umarra were from Surah Taha or Surah Al-Hadid.

Hearing these verses Hazrat Umarra began to weep and said that surely those were the words of Allah, the One God. After this, Hazrat Umarra rushed directly to the Holy Prophetsa with the same sword he had intended to kill him with.

However, instead, he accepted Islam.

In Ahadith, we find that the Holy Prophetsa prayed to Allah saying, “O Allah, strengthen Islam with one of two men whom you love more: Abu Jahl or Umar ibn Al-Khattab.” (Sunan AlTirmidhi) Thus, it was due to the prayer of the Holy Prophetsa that God’s decree came into effect.

Hazrat Umarra embracing Islam gave confidence and granted power to the Muslims in Mecca.

Persecution Though Hazrat Umarra accepted Islam, the disbelievers of Mecca continued to persecute the Muslims. They started gathering around Hazrat Umar’sra home and raised slogans saying, “Umar has no religion.”

Witnessing this Aas Ibn Wail, who was a relative of Hazrat Umar, told Hazrat Continued on page 6

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Tolerance

Turning Point in History Part II

Junaid Ahmad Waraich, Pakistan

The journey made by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrt to ensure the smooth functioning of the Jamaat by departing a country that was once home to Khilafat. In the second part, we will see Huzoorrt taking the final steps towards a journey that changed the course of history. (Editor) Migration of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrt from Pakistan A Chronology 29 April 1984: The historic migration of Khilafat-eAhmadiyya from Pakistan to England began in the early hours. Cars carrying members of the convoy left Rabwah before daybreak.

• Car 1: Sardar Abdus Sami (Lahore), Malik Sultan Harun

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Tarkhanawala. This small road joins Sargodha-Jhang Road further down •

Earlier, while still in Rabwah, Huzoorrt had pointed out a spy of the military agencies in the disguise of a pauper but wearing army boots. More spies were spotted again between Lalian and Jhang

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One hour after the departure, Mirza Mansoor Ahmad sahib sent off another car with the instruction to keep an hour’s distance behind the convoy • About 80 miles before Sukkur, a tyre of Car 4 went flat. The convoy, hence, came to a halt when Mirza Khurshid Ahmad sahib received a message from Huzoorrt from the car in front that food from a roadside dhaba (roadside inn) be bought. Food was purchased from a nearby dhaba

(Kot Fateh Khan, Attock), Sheikh Amir Ahmad (Lahore), Chaudhry Idris Nasrullah Khan (driver)

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Car 2: Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad , Hazrat Syeda Asifa Begum sahiba, Huzoor’srt two youngest daughters, Chaudhry Hameed Nasrullah Khan (driver)

The convoy stopped for a lunchbreak near Sukkur Bypass at around 2 pm. The food bought earlier was served for lunch. Namaz was offered here

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At this point, a convoy of three cars from Karachi joined and piloted the convoy from here onwards

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The convoy arrived at Karachi around sunset and stopped briefly near Malir Toll Plaza. After some discussion, the convoy moved in two parts to where accommodation had been arranged

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The three cars accompanying Huzoorrt went to Kalimullah Khan sahib’s residence, while others headed to Sheikh Abdul Majid sahib’s house in the area of Defence

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Huzoor came out ten minutes later and sat in the car. He was wearing white clothes, an over coat and a topi

Soon after, Masud Jehlmi sahib (Wakilut-Tabshir) and Raja Shahid sahib left for the airport with passports of passengers to have them ready for departure

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The convoy left Rabwah at fouro’clock in the morning. Three of the four cars left together, while the pilot car had already left for Sargodha Road; joining the three at the main road

Before the six London bound passengers arrived at the airport, their passports were ready for boarding. (Visas were not a requirement for travel to the UK then)

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As a precaution, Huzoor’srt passport was processed separately. Huzoor’srt

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Car 3: Brigadier Waqiuz Zaman, Sheikh Mubasher Ahmad (driver), Sheikh Saeed Ahmad, Malik Faruq Ahmad (co-driver) Car 4: Mirza Khurshid Ahmad (representing Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya), Mirza Mujib Ahmad (driver), Mirza Luqman Ahmad, Faiza Begum, Mirza Usman Ahmad When Mirza Khurshid Ahmad sahib sent a message to Huzoorrt that it was time for departure, Huzoor was offering Tahajjud prayers

The convoy drove in the direction of Sargodha, taking a turn to the left, just before Lalian towards

Its Importance in Social Life

Continued on page 7

Sformed ociety

is by groups of individuals who possess different elements that make them human.

We all have our unique characteristics and personaliLack of tolerance has recently resulted in uprisings in various countries ties that make us different from each other. Those treaty was based on the principle of characteristics, qualities and attributes – religious freedom and tolerance.

When the Banu Nadhir tribe was which are the bases for the betterment of society – are in fact most important given the punishment of exile from and of great significance, whether it be Medina due to their treachery and seditious behavior, they desired to take loyalty, sincerity, love or gratitude.

Tolerance is one of those qualities along those people who were from the that forms the bedrock of society. The children of the Ansar [early Muslim world is a much smaller place today. natives of Medina] but had been Globalisation has blurred borders converted to Judaism due to the vows throughout the world. More people from of the Ansar. The Ansar attempted to different nations, cultures, religions restrain them in Medina. However, and lifestyles are working together and when this dispute was presented before living in the same neighborhoods than the Holy Prophetsa, he issued a verdict against the Ansar saying, “There can be ever before.

In this globalisation, where people no compulsion in the matter of religion,” of different backgrounds, cultures and and granted Banu Nadhir permission to faith live together, and where the world take those people along with them.

In the very lifetime of the Holy has become more multicultural and diverse than ever before, establishing Prophetsa we also find instances when tolerance and harmony has become the Jews of Khaybar and Christians of more crucial and important; fostering Najran entered the Islamic state, the mutual love and affection has become Holy Prophetsa granted them complete freedom in both belief and practice. vital.

As a matter of fact, there is a Let’s take religion for instance.

Tolerance is very important in the narration that when the Christians case of religion. How people worship of Najran came to Medina, the Holy is a very personal thing and someone Prophetsa even granted them permission bashing a person’s religion can start a to perform their worship in Masjid Alheated battle very quickly. Everyone has Nabawi in their own manner. When the right to believe what they want. If some companions attempted to restrain there was more tolerance among people, them, the Holy Prophetsa forbade them. there would be fewer battles over whose Thus, the Christians faced westward in the very Masjid Al-Nabawi and religion is right.

An illustration of the Islamic teaching observed their own rites of worship.

There is a narration regarding Hazrat with regards to religious freedom and Abu Bakrra that whenever he would tolerance will not be out of context.

The Holy Quran has especially em- dispatch a Muslim army, he would phasised that the matter of religion re- especially instruct its commander lates to the conscience of every individ- to ensure that non-Muslim places ual. Hence, there should be absolutely of worship and religious elders were no force and compulsion in religion. given full reverence, something he acquired from the blessed example of (Surah Al-Baqarah: Ch.2: V.256) This teaching is not exclusively for his Mastersa. When Syria was conquered the embellishment of paper or the beau- in the era of Hazrat Umarra, the single tification of pulpits, rather it is practiced most prominent aspect of the treaty that was settled between the Muslims and with immense integrity.

The very first treaty of Islam was the Christian population who lived there one settled by the Holy Prophetsa after was religious freedom and tolerance. his migration with the Jewish population The Holy Prophetsa not only emphasised of Medina. The very foundation of this Continued on page 6

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Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 5

the desirability of tolerance in religious matters but set a very high standard in this respect.

Youth for Tolerance, a group in Lebanon (one of the most diverse yet disturbed countries in the world) had this to say about tolerance: “Tolerance, as we define it, refers to the skills we need to live together peacefully. In times of peace, people have a chance to prosper socially, economically and emotionally. Tolerance creates a society in which people can feel valued and respected, and in which there is room for every person, each with their own ideas, thoughts and dreams. This is why we believe tolerance is important: because it is an essential aspect of a healthy, livable society. In fact, it is the only way in which a country as diverse as Lebanon (politically, religiously, economically) can function and use each and every difference to make its people thrive rather than suffer.”

It is imperative that people show cultural tolerance where there is a diverse array of people of different cultural backgrounds. One must respect the culture of another irrespective of class, colour or creed.

In this era, where there is enough maturity and sense of values of others, we still observe lack of tolerance regarding culture. A fresh example is that of France where Muslim women are not allowed to wear the veil in specific areas. If we think for a moment how Europe emphasises freedom of expression and then observe steps they have taken regarding Islamic culture, it shows us a clear lack of tolerance.

We need to accept every individual of our society as our own. We have to be tolerant to any kind of culture whether it is – as the Promised Messiahas said – a Hindu culture in a Muslim society or a Muslim culture in a Hindu society.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, A Message of Peace.)

Only then can a society be called perfect and tolerant.

A factor playing a major role in destroying the peace of the world are those self-perceived intelligent and liberal circles, who feel free to ridicule and mock founders of religions. To maintain peace in society, it is necessary for one to eliminate all sentiments of hostility from one’s heart and to increase one’s levels of tolerance.

Even in the West, enforcing restrictions against Muslims will not lead to peace, because they alone cannot change people’s minds and views. This is not specific to Muslims, but whenever any person is forcibly suppressed due to their religion or belief, it will lead to a negative reaction through which peace

will be severely harmed.

The war in Syria is a fresh example of intolerance. Governments are hungry for power and to serve their interests they will use any means necessary.

Tolerance and peace can help solve many problems, and wars are one thing that can be stopped by inducing these

today’s society.

Freedom of speech cannot be questioned at all, as it is one of the basic human rights. Everyone has the right to speak whatever they will but one must not go beyond the sentiments and values of others. One must consult wisdom before speaking, because words

There have been restrictions on the Muslim Veil in France

qualities.

The problem is not that people are intolerant by nature. God has, by nature, induced love and humility in the hearts of His creation; the problem comes when they remain ignorant and deprived of education – which is imperative in understanding values of society – thereby creating chaos and intolerance.

To establish tolerance, one way is the removal of religious prejudice. The world could have been a better place if religious leaders had promoted more tolerance than hatred. Religion can be a weapon if used negatively but on the other hand, when used wisely, can be the best way to promote love and harmony in the society. Thus, slogans like “Love for all, hatred for none” are needed for the promotion of peace and tolerance in

can leave a lasting impression and break one’s heart in a matter of seconds.

Many a time, we see people develop mutual enmity just because they are hurt from words said by others about their religious and holy personalities or those things which they hold sacred.

Governments have the power to change views of individuals, by taking steps that can help promote peace and harmony. No government can deny the importance of tolerance in society, as tolerance is what breaks barriers of discrimination and brings every class of the society on the same page. Governments can make laws against those who are hardened against tolerance and are creating disorder by promoting hatred through their actions or words.

Tolerance does not mean that only

Continued from page 4

Umar’sra leadership, that he would strictly follow the principle of equality and justice. People of different faiths were all able to co-exist together and all were given the freedom to practice their religion openly. This then opened the door for people to see the true essence of Islam and the conversion of many high religious personalities, as they saw Islam as a continuation of the Abrahamic faith.

During his Khilafat, Hazrat Umarra introduced the system of Shura (Consultative Body), Bait-ul-Mal (Treasury), discipline among fellow countrymen and many more successful endeavours.

Umarra to stay with him as he would be safe. Hazrat Umarra remained and said that he did not deem it appropriate to seek refuge whilst his Muslim brothers had to face the persecution.

Facing the persecution head on, Hazrat Umarra requested the Holy Prophetsa to lead the congregational prayer at the Ka‘bah. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa gathered all the Muslims and prayed openly for the first time at Masjid Al-Haram. The Holy Prophetsa gave Hazrat Umarra the title Al-Faruq – the one who distinguishes from right and wrong.

Khilafat The many services Hazrat Umarra rendered as the Khalifa are reflections of his life as a successful leader. Under his leadership, Islam spread rapidly by virtue of the beautiful teachings, simplicity and moral conduct found within the core of Islam.

It was commonly known among all people present at the time of Hazrat

Worship On multiple occasions, the Quran addresses the purpose of man’s creation and says that man was created so that he may worship his Creator. We find a narration regarding Hazrat Umar’sra excellent example of worship.

Once after the Conquest of Mecca,

one person or party shows patience and acceptance for others, whereas the others do not. When people disagree on a certain issue, they must advocate and express their opinion in a respectful manner, and hateful and provocative words should be avoided. Tolerance must be shown from both sides on issues, in order for it to be effective.

Here, let it be clear that showing respect and tolerance to the opinions of others does not necessarily mean you must compromise your principles or unwillingly embrace or accept others’ ideas. It is simply a matter of fundamental human rights.

The basic right of every human being is that their sensibilities and sentiments shall not be violated and offended and must be recognised. And every person has the right to have an opinion and to express it. ___________ _______

Hazrat Umarra asked the Holy Prophetsa if he could spend one night alone at Masjid Al-Haram. The Holy Prophetsa granted him permission and also told him to remember him in his prayers.

Acceptance of Prayer Hazrat Umar’sra belief in God and acceptance was so strong and firm that on many occasions, companions narrated that Hazrat Umarra would ask children to pray for him because in God’s eyes all children were free from sin.

Al-Faruq Before his conversion to Islam, Hazrat Umar’sra character and status was known all throughout Mecca. Now, the whole world knows him as one of the most powerful and influential persons to walk this earth. He was a true and just leader and showed respect to all, regardless of their faith. He had a personality that inspired many people; to date his name is echoed throughout history. ___________

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Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 5

passport clearly stated “Head of the Ahmadiyya Movement” as Occupation •

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Zartasht Munir sahib, Malik Faruq sahib and Mirza Mujib Ahmad sahib also left for the airport The on-duty immigration officer looked through Huzoor’s passport, read all details and stamped it, granting exit clearance

soon became known that they were there as part of protocol for an African dignitary •

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The flight had landed with a delay of 30 minutes, so boarding time was pushed back by 30 minutes Half an hour after take-off, the flight lost signal with the Air Traffic Control Tower at Karachi Airport, meaning that it had crossed the Pakistani airspace and could not be withdrawn by Pakistani authorities

Brig. Waqiuz Zaman sahib, Chaudhry Hamid Nasrullah • After this confirmation, those who saw Huzoorrt off returned from the sahib and Huzoor’s two youngest airport daughters arrived at the airport rt about half an hour before Huzoor 30 April 1984: and Hazrat Asifa Begum sahiba • Huzoorrt first arrived in rt Huzoor and Hazrat Asifa Begum Amsterdam, and after a brief sahiba arrived at Karachi Airport at transit, safely arrived in London 1:25am and went straight through • This was the beginning of a new to the VIP lounge. The flight was chapter in the history of the Jamaat, scheduled for take-off at 2am opening new avenues for prosperity Huzoorrt was dressed in his usual attire of Sherwani [overcoat] and turban. His name was entered twice in the VIP lounge books along with his designation as “Head of the Ahmadiyya Movement” Some military personnel were seen scanning through the VIP lounge. This was alarming but it

and success ___________ _______

A Quick Glance at the Fourth Era of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya The Khilafat of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrt saw great milestones being achieved. This was partly a result of the migration which he had to undertake due to opposition in Pakistan, which all took place in the month of April.

That migration proved in our favour and brought about achievements, the fruits of which we reaped then and continue to reap today. Below is a brief selection of the accomplishments in the fourth Khilafat of Ahmadiyyat (1982-2003).

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Huzoorrt boarded a KLM flight from Karachi to London

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100 Years Ago...

Open Letter to Reverend Brown While Hazrat Mufti Sadiq sahibra was in England, he wrote this letter to Al Fazl concerning an English priest located in India. This letter has been taken from Al Fazl, 2 April 1918.

My friend, Sheikh Abdul Qadir (bookseller, Hyderabad, Deccan) has written to inform me that a priest, Rev. Brown [a priest who resided in India at the time], has allegedly claimed that no Englishmen have converted to Islam and that my reports are nothing but tales.

Sheikh sahib has thus suggested that I get the English converts to sign their statements to testify my reports. He wished to show these to the Rev. Brown, so I have sent four signed statements from those who accepted Islam through me. But the priest could potentially simply reject them on the grounds that they were all forged.

I therefore challenge Rev. Brown to choose one of the following two methods to testify my claims: The first method being that Rev. Brown should travel to England to

testify my claims. Anjuman Taraqqie-Islam, Qadian shall bear his secondclass travel and day-to-day expenses.

During his stay here, he will be our guest and will get to meet the English Muslim converts in person. We will arrange for his doubts to be removed in every way.

If his doubts are removed and the truthfulness of Muslim missionaries proved, he will have to accept Islam. If he refuses to convert, he will pay back to our mission the amount spent on his journey, amounting to one-thousand pounds. And if we are unable to prove our claims, Rev. Brown will not be liable to pay us back, rather I shall repay him a thousand pounds and quit the activities of our mission.

If he is unable to travel, he can appoint a missionary based in London to represent him. In this case, all

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The Nasir Foundation Headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat established in London Launch of the global satellite channel of the Jamaat, MTA International Launch of the Waqf-e-Nau scheme – parents devoting their unborn children for the service of the Jamaat Urdu translation of the Holy Quran Thousands of episodes of Quran classes, homeopathy classes and many other sessions recorded for MTA International Launch of the Baitul Futuh Mosque scheme Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth – Huzoor’srt magnum opus covering religio-philosophical subjects Launch of scheme to translate the Holy Quran into 100 languages Globalisation of Waqf-e-Jadid (previously restricted to Pakistan and India) Syedna Bilal Fund (for the families of martyrs) Maryam Shadi (marriage) Fund – to facilitate marriage of underprivileged girls Detailed sessions on homeopathy, later compiled in book form Launch of Al Fazl International, London (weekly Urdu newspaper) Majlis-e-Shura [Consultative Body] started being held on a national scale Purchase of Islamabad (Tilford, Surrey) for Jalsa Salana UK, which became the central Jalsa for the Jamaat

conditions will remain the same, save the reimbursement of travel expenses.

Either way, Rev. Brown will sign an agreement endorsing the above conditions (which will soon be published in Al Fazl and sent to him) and have it registered with our attorneys.

He may write to the Secretary of Anjuman Taraqqi-e-Islam Qadian to

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Humanity First, a global relief organisation 100 Mosque Scheme for Germany Buyutul Hamd scheme, Rabwah – providing accommodation for those in need National auxiliary bodies given autonomous status Kafalat Yak Sad Yatama (sponsoring a hundred orphans) scheme launched Scheme for financial sacrifice towards the Washington DC Mosque Scheme to increase subscription of Al Fazl and The Review of Religions Scheme to contribute towards establishing missions in Eastern Europe Scheme to provide aid to Iraqi people Scheme to recite Durud (invoking salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa) extensively during Muharram-ul-Haram Scheme to turn every Ahmadi into Dai-e-Ilallah (caller towards Allah) Tehrik-e-Jadid, Daftar Chaharam (4th Generation of Financial Sacrifice towards Tehrik-e-Jadid) Scheme to celebrate centenary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. Celebrated globally in 1989 Instruction to students to learn languages Instruction to learn Spanish and go for Waqf-e-Arzi in Spain Further establishing global missionary activity Establishing mosques in various parts of the world

___________ _______ settle the arrangements in good time.

13 November 1917 Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, 4 Star Street, Edgware Road, London W2 (Al Fazl, 2 April 1918) ___________ _______

Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM

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opportunity to participate in the Battle of Uhud. After the turning point during the battle – that is, at first the Muslims were winning but then the battle took a turn, because the disbelievers attacked again due to a designated place being abandoned, and thus the battle turned against the Muslims – among those Companions, who remained the closest to the Holy Prophetsa at that time was Hazrat Abu Dujanara. And he sustained

It was only to be used against those enemies from among the disbelievers who sought to wage war against the Muslims. He then took this sword and marched onto the battlefield with great pride and honour. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said “Usually, Allah the Exalted dislikes such an expression of arrogance. However, today, Allah the Exalted greatly liked the manner in which Abu Dujana marched onto the battlefield.” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 6, p. 93, Abu Dujana, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) He was martyred whilst fighting Musaylimah, the Liar, during the battle of Yamama. He made a most courageous plan to open the door of the fort (which had been locked from inside as he [Musylimah] hid in there). He told his companions to throw him over the wall. It was a very high rampart. When he was thrown over in this manner, he broke his leg. Despite this, he fought with great courage and opened the door of the fort and Muslims entered [the fort]. He demonstrated astonishing courage and bravery. Nevertheless, he

many injuries, while defending the Holy Prophetsa. However, in spite of the injuries, he did not retreat. (Siyar Al-Sahaba, Vol. 3, p. 207, Hazrat Abu Dujana Ansarira, Darul-Isha‘at Karachi 2004) (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 4, p. 1644, Abu Dujanara, Darul Jil, Beirut 1992) Another incident, which is found among the narrations about him is that when the Holy Prophetsa, at one occasion, raised his sword and asked, “Who will put this sword to its rightful use, today?”

It was Hazrat Abu Dujana Ansarira, who came forward upon hearing this.

He said “I promise to fulfil the right of this sword.” The Holy Prophetsa, seeing his passion, handed his sword over to him. Then, he gathered the courage once again and asked, “O Messengersa of Allah! How shall the right of this sword be fulfilled?” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “This sword shall not cause the bloodshed of any Muslim. Secondly, the enemy from among the disbelievers shall not escape from it.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Fazail Al-Sahaba, Bab Min Fadhl Abu Dujanara, Hadith 6353) (Kanzul ‘Ummal, Vol. 4, p. 339, Hadith 10792, Moaissisatur-Risalah, Beirut 1985)

was martyred whilst fighting in this condition. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 551, Samak bin Khurshara, Darul Kutub Al‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) Once, when he was ill, he said to his companion, “Perhaps Allah the Exalted will accept two deeds of mine.

Firstly, that I do not indulge in any vain discourse, nor speak behind anyone’s back. Secondly, I do not hold any grudge or malice in my heart against another Muslim.” (Al-Tabqat Al-Kubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 420, Bab Abu Dujanara, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) Then, we find the mention of Hazrat Muhammadra bin Maslamah, who was from among the first Ansari Muslims [Muslim residents of Medina] and who was a very courageous and fearless person. Muhammadra bin Maslamah also took part in the battle of Uhud and remained by the side of the Holy Prophetsa with great resolve and steadfastness. One of his distinctions was that a prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa was fulfilled in his person.

On one occasion, whilst handing him his sword, the Holy Prophetsa said “As long as you fight the idolaters, you

Friday Sermon 16.03.18

Delivered from Baitul Futuh Mosque Faith of the Companionsra After reciting the Tashahud, Ta’awuz, Tasmiyah and Surah Al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

While mentioning the status of the Companionsra [of the Holy Prophetsa], the Promised Messiahas stated on one occasion, “The revered Companions, may Allah be pleased with all of them, are a luminous proof of the blessed character of the Holy Prophetsa. Now, if someone was to disregard these proofs, then, in other words, he would be seeking to disregard the prophethood of the Holy Prophetsa. Thus, only that person can truly value the Holy Prophetsa, who values his revered Companionsra.

One who does not esteem the revered Companionsra can never truly esteem the Holy Prophetsa. Such a person would be making a false claim if he was to say, ‘I love the Holy Prophetsa.’ It would be impossible for a person to love the Holy Prophetsa but to harbour enmity against his Companions.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p.

278, 1985 UK) Huzooras states, “It was the holy community of the revered Companionsra, which never parted from their Holy Prophetsa and who would not hesitate from even sacrificing their lives for his sake, indeed they did not hesitate from it.” He says, “They were so immersed in their obedience to the Holy Prophetsa that they became ever-ready to bear every hardship and difficulty for this.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 277, 1985 UK) Thus, this is that status of the Companions, may Allah be pleased with all of them, which every Ahmadi should keep in view. When we study the lives of the Companionsra and garner knowledge about their practices, their lofty status is further highlighted before us. This status should draw our attention towards the fact that their lives, character, achievements, obedience and standards of worship are an example for us and that we must endeavour to inculcate these [traits] into our lives.

Now, I will narrate accounts of some of the Companionsra.

Abu Dujana Ansarira was a companion of the Prophetsa. He accepted Islam before the migration of the Holy Prophetsa to Medina. He was a resident of Medina. He also had the honour of participating in the Battle of Badr alongside the Holy Prophetsa where he exhibited his mettle in great bravery. Likewise, he also had the

should continue to fight them with this sword. However, when the time comes when Muslims begin to fight with one another, you should break this sword and stay at home until someone attacks you or death overcomes you.”

He acted in accordance with this guidance and he did so following the martyrdom of Hazrat Uthmanra. He physically destroyed the sword, made another sword from wood and would place it in his sheath. Someone asked him what use that sword was. He replied, “The wisdom behind this is to maintain a degree of awe. Moreover, I have also complied with the instruction of the Holy Prophetsa not to keep a sword made from iron. Furthermore, a wooden sword cannot harm anyone.”

Some Companions used to say that if there was a person who was not affected by the agitation, that is, the agitation that arose within Muslims after the martyrdom of Hazrat Uthman, it was Muhammadra bin Maslamah.

In order to protect himself from the seditious agitation, he went to live in the wilderness and used to say, “Until the sedition is over, I intend to spend my life in the wilderness.” (Al-Tabqat AlKubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 3, pp. 338-340, Bab Muhammad Bin Maslamahra, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) Thus, these are the people who, if they fought, did so because [their] religion was being attacked. They did so because the Holy Prophetsa had said to fight those idolaters, who were attacking in order to exterminate religion. As long as Muslims remained firmly established on this, their power remained, through which they continued to be victorious.

However, when they started to fight one another, they were swayed by the words of the hypocrites and began to kill one another, regardless of the fact that their governances remained intact and continued. As a result, they were no longer united and even their governance weakened slowly and gradually.

Today, we observe that the internal disputes between Muslims have exceeded all bounds. Furthermore, another prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa has been fulfilled that following an era of darkness, when the time of light approaches, when the time of the Promised Messiah dawns, you should accept the Promised Messiah and attach yourself to [his] Jamaat, as all blessings lie in this. However, by not accepting this Promised One, we observe that Muslims are thirsty for each other's blood in their very own countries and consequently today, the non-Muslim world is practically ruling over Muslims.

We also find many accounts in relation to Hazrat Muhammadsa bin Maslamah being extremely judicious and acquiescent. Due to this, the Khulafa [Successors of the Holy Prophetsa] trusted him greatly. Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Uthmanra in particular had entrusted him with very important

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Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM tasks and campaigns. When complaints were received against those who were appointed for various tasks in the administrative affairs, when complaints were received against them from other countries and places, Hazrat Umarra would send Muhammad bin Maslamah to investigate these complaints. (AlTabqat Al-Kubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 47, Bab Dhikr Al-Misriyin Wa Hasr Uthmanra, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 5, p.

107, Muhammad bin Maslamahra, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) One of the early Companions was Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansarira. He was fortunate to have received the honour of being the host of the Holy Prophetsa during his early days in Medina after migration. Every person desired for the Holy Prophetsa to stay at their home and everyone expressed this desire, requesting the Holy Prophetsa [for this honour] at that time. The Holy Prophetsa said, “Let my camel loose. It will stop wherever Allah the Exalted desires.”

Abu Ayub Ansarira was fortunate that the camel stopped in front of his home.

However, people were not satisfied with this. They said, “Our homes are nearby as well, please stay with us.” Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa drew a lot and even then, the name of Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansarira came up. (Al-Tabqat Al-Kubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 1, p. 183, Dhikr Khuruj Rasulullahsa, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) Hence, the Holy Prophetsa stayed at his home. His house had two floors.

Abu Ayub Ansarira stayed in the upper floor and the lower floor was offered to the Holy Prophetsa. He [Abu Ayub Ansarira] was on the upper floor one night, when a vessel or pot of water broke. They used to have pots of clay, in which they stored water. Even today, water is stored in such pots in thirdworld and impoverished countries, such as Pakistan and in Africa. Anyhow, the pot broke. Abu Ayub Ansarira and his wife spent the entire night drying [the spillage] with their quilt. The following day, he related the incident that had transpired the previous night to the Holy Prophetsa and requested the Holy Prophetsa to stay on the upper floor. The Holy Prophetsa accepted his request and stayed with him for approximately six or seven months. He tried to fulfil his dues of hospitality most excellently. His own meal would be the leftovers of the Holy Prophetsa. In a narration it is mentioned that wherever the marks of the Holy Prophet’s fingers could be seen, he would eat the leftovers of the Holy Prophetsa from there. One day, he observed that there were no finger marks of the Holy Prophetsa on the food and the food seemed not to have been eaten. He went to the Holy Prophetsa and asked, “Huzoor, you did not eat today?” Upon this the Holy Prophetsa replied, “I was about to eat, when I noticed that it was prepared with onions and garlic. As I do

not like these, I did not eat.” Hazrat Abu Ayyub Ansarira said, “I dislike whatever the Holy Prophetsa dislikes and I will never eat these items in future.” How astonishing are these stories of love and devotion. (Musnad Ahmad Bin Hanbal, Vol. 7, p. 781, Hadith 23966, Musnad Abu Ayub Ansarira, ‘Alam Al-Kutub, Beirut) (Sahih Muslim, Al-Ashriba, Bab Abahatu Aklith-Thaum, Hadith 5356) (Al-Tabqat Al-Kubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 1, p. 183, Dhikr Khuruj Rasulullahsa, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansarira participated in all the battles [where the Holy Prophetsa was present]. (Al-Tabqat Al-Kubra Li-Ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 369, Bab Abu Ayub Ansarira, Darul Kutub Al‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) During the Battle of Khaybar, the Jewish leader was killed. When his daughter, Hazrat Safiyya was married to Holy Prophetsa, the following morning, the Holy Prophetsa came outside to lead the prayers and saw Abu Ayub Ansarira stood, watching guard. The Holy Prophetsa enquired as to why he was doing so. He replied, “Close relatives of Hazrat Safiyya have been hurt at our hands and some of them were even killed. For this reason, the thought came to my mind that I should come and keep guard lest anyone causes mischief or tries to take revenge.” The Holy Prophetsa then prayed for him in the following manner, “O Lord! Keep Abu Ayub always under Your protection, just as he readily stayed the whole night protecting me!”

Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansarira also participated in the Battle of Rome in spite of his old age. He only participated in order to witness [the fulfilment of] the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa regarding Constantinople. However, he also fell ill in that duration. When he was asked as to what his final wishes were, his reply was to convey his greetings to every Muslim and for his grave to be as close as possible to the land of the enemy. Henceforth, after his demise during the night, his coffin was taken to the furthest possible point in the land of the enemy where he was buried. Even today his grave is found in Turkey and it is said and there are also narrations, people have crafted narrations pertaining harmful innovations that people supplicate him.

Certainly, it is not he who is supplicated but whatever one prays for at his grave, that prayer is accepted. (Al-Sirat AlHilbiyah, Vol. 3, p. 65, Ghazwa Khaybar, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 2002) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 123, Khalid bin Zaid bin Kalibra, Darul Kutub Al‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) Anyhow, with the passage of time, such stories are concocted. The result of the prayer of the Holy Prophetsa of protection and security of Abu Ayubra was that he participated in many battles and every time came forth as a ghazi [Muslim soldier who has triumphed

battle] and he attained a very long life.

Then we have the companion of the Holy Prophetsa, Abdullahra bin Rawaha who was a renowned poet of Arabia and was also known by his title of “Poet of the Messengersa”. (Sirat Al-Sahab, Vol. 3, p. 409, Darul-Isha‘at, Karachi 2004) After the Battle of Badr had ended, he was the one who delivered the message of victory to the people of Medina. (AlTabqat Al-Kubra Li-ibni Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p.

398, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1990) There are incidents where Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha expressed his devotion, love and sense of honour for the Holy Prophetsa, one of which is as follows: Urwah related that Usama bin Zaid informed him that the Holy Prophetsa was mounted on a donkey which had a saddle, beneath which was a cloth from the region of Fadak.

He had Usama sitting behind him.

He had travelled to the tribe of Banu Harith bin Khazraj to enquire of the health of Hazrat Sa‘d bin Abadah. This incident took place before the Battle of Badr. The Holy Prophetsa passed by a group of people, which comprised of Muslims, idolaters and Jews who all sat together. Among them was Abdullah bin Ubayy and also in this assembly was Abdullahra bin Rawaha. When the Holy Prophetsa drew closer to the group, his mount caused a little dust to swirl up in the air. Abdullah bin Ubayy covered his nose with his cloth and said, “Don’t spread dust on us.” The Holy Prophetsa said to them “Peace be upon you.”

Then he stopped and dismounted. He began calling them to Allah the Exalted and reciting the Holy Quran to them.

Abdullah bin Ubayy said to the Holy Prophetsa “O you, this is not good.

Even if what you say is true, do not come to our gathering and trouble us.

So return to where you came from and relate only to those who come to you.”

Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha, who was also seated there said, “O Messenger of Allah! You may come to our gatherings we very much like this.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Al-Jihad Wa Al-Siyar, Bab Fi Du’a Al-Nabisaw a Sabarihi, Hadith 4659) He did not give heed as to what his leader was saying. This was the sense of honour and love which Abdullahra bin Rawaha overwhelmingly expressed for the Holy Prophetsa and did not care one bit for the chiefs and worldly people.

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa sent forth some companions on an expedition, among whom was Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha. It was a Friday and the other companions in this expedition had already left in the morning. He said “I shall offer my Jumu’ah Prayer with the Holy Prophetsa and then join them.”

When the Holy Prophetsa saw him present in the mosque, after completing the Friday Prayers, he asked, “What is it that hindered you from leaving with your companions?” He answered “O

Messenger of Allah! It was my earnest desire and wish to be present during the Friday Prayers with the Holy Prophetsa and listen to your sermon. Thereafter I will take another route and meet up with the group.” The Holy Prophetsa stated, “Even if you spent all that was in the earth, you would still not attain the reward of those who, in accordance with the instructions, departed in the morning for the expedition.” (Sunan AlTirmidhi, Abwab Al-Jumu’ah, Bab Ma Ja-a Fi Safar Yaum Al-Jumu’ah, Hadith 527) So here, the emphasis is on obedience being obligatory. It has been narrated that after this, whenever he went on an expedition or participated in a battle, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha was always the first to join the group and the last to return to Medina. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 236, Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) There is one account in which Urwah bin Zubair narrates that the Holy Prophetsa appointed Zaidra bin Haritha as the army commander in the Battle of Mu’tah and stated that if Hazrat Zaidra was martyred then Hazrat Ja’farra bin Abi Talib would be the commander.

If he too was martyred, then Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha would assume leadership. If Abdullahra too was martyred, then Muslims were to appoint whoever they desired as commander.

When the time came to see off the army, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha began weeping. People asked Abdullah “Why are you weeping?” He said, “By God I have absolutely no love nor any desire for the world. However, I heard the Holy Prophetsa say, with regards to the Quranic verse:

َ ٰ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َّ ْ ُ ْ ّ ْ َ ‫لی َر ِّبک‬ ‫و ِان ِمنکم ِالا وارِدہا کان ع‬ َْ ‫َح ْت ًما ّمق ِض ًّیا‬

‘And there is not one of you but will come to it. This is a fixed decree with thy Lord,’ (Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.72) that everyone must face the Fire once. Hence, I do not know what my state will be once I have crossed the Bridge of Siraat [on the Day of Reckoning].” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p.

237, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) However, it is narrated that the Holy Prophetsa has given such God-fearing people the glad tidings of the best possible end. During the Battle of Mu’tah the Holy Prophetsa said regarding the army commanders, “I have seen them in Paradise seated on thrones of gold.”

Thus, these were the people who fulfilled their noble objectives. Their desire for martyrdom is evident in the following poetic couplet, the translation of which is as follows: “May I be struck with such arrows and spears that pass through my intestines to my liver and my martyrdom be accepted before God, so that those who pass by my grave may say, ‘O God, be good to him, what a

10 great warrior he was!’”

Some details of the Battle of Mu’tah, in which he was martyred are that when they reached Mu’tah, they became aware that the Ghassani tribe had requested help against the Muslims from Heraclius, Caesar of Rome and that he had sent an army of 200,000 to combat the Muslims.

At the time, the leaders of the Muslim army consulted each other and it was decided to send a message to the Holy Prophetsa with a request for reinforcements due to this increase in number of the enemy or to take any other action that the Holy Prophetsa advised. At this juncture, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha boosted the morale of the Muslims and his war poetry also came to good use. The Muslim army consisting of 3,000 men advanced towards the opposing army of 200,000. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p.

237, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) Zaidra bin Arqam narrates Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha’s desire for martyrdom. He states, “Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha took me with him for the Battle of Mu’tah, riding together on his camel.” Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha had raised Hazrat Zaidra bin Arqam as an orphan child and had trained him.

He says,“One night I heard Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha reciting a poetic couplet in reminiscence of his family, saying that he would never return home again. He was humming this couplet joyously in which he would address his wife and say ‘Thursday night, when you packed my saddle for this journey in jihad, you were close to me one last time, how wonderful and blessed was your state. There are no imperfections and flaws in you. However, I am here now in the battlefield and I shall never return to you.’”

This was his way of bidding farewell to his family in their absence. When the young Zaidra heard this, he became sad and began weeping. Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha admonished him and said, “O naïve child, what do you have to lose if Allah the Exalted grants me martyrdom? If that happens, you will in fact sit on my ride comfortably, all by yourself, and return home.” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, pp. 236-237, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah) Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha demonstrated great mettle in the battlefield. Hazrat Nu‘man bin Bashir would later on narrate, “When Hazrat Ja‘farra was martyred, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha’s name was called, who, at the time was to the side of the army. He came forward while addressing himself in the following couplet from his war poetry” the translation of which is: “O my soul! Will you not battle in such a manner that you give up your life? You have already entered the pool of death

Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM and the time for the fulfillment of your desire to attain martyrdom is nigh. If you were to offer your life as a tribute right now, then perhaps you will obtain a good ending.”

Mus‘abra bin Shiba narrates: “After the martyrdom of Hazrat Zaidra and Hazrat Ja‘farra, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha came to the front lines. A spear struck him and a stream of blood gushed forth.

He raised his hands, caught this blood and rubbed it on his face after which he fell down in the middle of the army lines of the enemy and the Muslims. However, he continued to encourage the Muslims as their Army General until his last breath. While motivating the Muslims in a most effective and passionate manner, he sought their help and said, ‘Look, O Muslims! Your brother’s body is lying in front of the enemy. Come forward and push the enemy away from this path and drive them out.’” Hence, at that moment the Muslims fiercely and successively attacked the enemies so much so that Hazrat ‘Abdullah also attained martyrdom. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, pp. 237-238, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) His widow related one of his great attributes. She got married after his martyrdom and her husband enquired, “Tell me something about Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawahah’s pure character.” The lady gave a most beautiful testament in this regard. She replied, “Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha would never leave the house without offering two rak’at [units] of supererogatory prayers. Similarly, the very first thing he would do after entering the house was, after performing ablution he would offer two rak’at of supererogatory prayers.”

(Al-Asabah Fi Tamiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 4, p. 74, Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah) These were the people who would remember Allah the Almighty in every condition and at every moment.

There is a narration about his standard of obedience. Hazrat Abu Lailara narrates: “Once the Holy Prophetsa was delivering a sermon during which he said, ‘O People be seated.’ Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha was outside the mosque on his way to listen to the sermon but he sat right then and there. The Holy Prophetsa addressed him and stated:

َ َ َ ً ُ ّٰ َ َ َ ّٰ ‫اع َی ِة الل ِہ َو‬ ِ ‫زادک اللہ ِح ْرصا علی ط َو‬ َ ‫اع َی ِة َر ُس ْول ِ ِہ‬ ِ ‫ط َو‬

‘(O Abdullah bin Rawaha.) May Allah the Exalted increase your passion of obeying Allah and His Messenger.’”

What were the standards of these people concerning organizing religious gatherings, engaging in purposeful conversations, fulfilling the due rights of each other? In this regard Hazrat Abu Darda’ra narrates: “I seek refuge

from Allah the Exalted that I may face a day when I do not remember Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha. I think of him every single day and this is due to one of his good qualities. Whenever we met, if he would arrive from behind me he would put his hand on my shoulders; if he would arrive from the front he would place his hand on my chest and say, ‘O Abu Darda’! Let go and let’s sit down together to reinvigorate our faith. Let’s talk about faith.’ We would sit together for as long as possible and remember Allah the Almighty. Then he would say: ‘O Abu Darda’! These are spiritual gatherings.’” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p.

236, Bab Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1996) Hence, those who organized such spiritual gatherings also established models for us to follow and emulate.

How did the Holy Prophetsa certify such gatherings and their discussions?

Hazrat Anasra narrates: “It was Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha’s practice that when he would meet his fellow companions, he would urge them:

ً َ ُْ َ َ ‫ت َعال نؤ ِم ْن بِ َربِّ َنا َساعة‬

‘Come, let’s believe in our Lord for a while.’

One day, he said the same thing to a man but the man got angry at this.

He went to the Holy Prophetsa and complained: ‘O Messengersa of Allah!

Look at Abdullah bin Rawaha. He is turning people away from believing in you and is inviting them to believe for a short while.’ The Holy Prophetsa said:

ٰ ُ َ َْ َ ‫اللّ ُہ ابْ َن َر َو‬ ‫احة‬ ‫یرحم‬

‘May Allah have mercy on Abdullah bin Rawaha. He is fond of such gatherings which the Angels also take pride in.’” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 4, p. 676, Hadith 13832, Musnad Anas bin Malikra, Alam Al-Kutub Al‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 1998) He was an illustrious poet. Amongst the Companions of the Holy Prophetsa, aside from Hazrat Ka‘b bin Malik and Hazrat Hassan bin Thabit, he was among the three illustrious poets. His poetry was in the Razmiya [epic tales] style.

The author of Mu‘jam Al-Shu‘ara wrote: “Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha was also a renowned poet in the Jahiliyya [pre-Islam era] period, and even after the dawn of Islam he held a prominent status. Hazrat Abdullahra composed such a couplet in praise of the Holy Prophetsa that can be termed as his best couplet. This couplet beautifully captures the state of his heart in which Hazrat Abdullah addresses the Holy Prophetsa:

ٌ ُ َ َ َ ُ ٌ ‫ل ْو ل ْم تک ْن ِف ْی ِہ ٓایَات ّم َب ِّی َنة‬ َ​َْ َ ُ ُ ْ َ َ ‫کانت ب َ ِدیْ َہ ُتہ ت ْن ِب ْیک بِالخب ِر‬

‘O Muhammad! Even if you were

without the countless luminous signs that radiate your truthfulness and veracity, your countenance alone was enough to declare your truthfulness.’”

(Al-Asabah Fi Tamiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 4 p. 75, Abdullahra bin Rawaha, Darul Kutub Al-‘Ilmiyah, Beirut 2005) These people were true ardent devotees of the Holy Prophetsa, who recognised the truth by merely seeing the countenance of the Holy Prophetsa.

Furthermore, we find an account in history of two young brothers who were remarkably brave and courageous; Hazrat Mu‘az bin Harith bin Rifa‘ah and Hazrat Mu‘awiz bin Harith bin Rifa‘ah.

They were present during the Battle of Badr and played a role in killing Abu Jahl. In the Battle of Badr, the fighting was intense. The Muslims were faced with an army that outnumbered them by three to one and that was fully equipped with all forms of apparatus of warfare. They entered the battlefield with the intent to wipe out the name of Islam. The feeble Muslims were very few in number. Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad sahibra has mentioned the entire incident in his book Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin.

The Muslims were impoverished and in a state of exile. With respect to their apparent means, they should not have survived more than a few minutes against the Meccans. However, they were immersed in the task at hand, and the love of the Oneness of God and for their Prophet had made them delve in a passion that nothing in this world was stronger than it at the time and that this was faith. It was their living faith that had infused them with extraordinary strength. In that battlefield they set an example of service to faith which is unmatched. Every single person was more anxious than the other to lay down his life in the way of Allah the Exalted.

Such was the level of sincerity and passion of the Ansar about which Abdur Rahman bin Aufra relates: “When the fighting began, I looked to my left and right and saw two youths from among the Ansar stand by my side. When I saw them, my heart sank as it is normal practice in such battles to rely on fellowfighters to one’s left and right. Only if one’s sides are protected can a person engage properly in battle.”

Abdur Rahmanra further says: “I was engulfed in the thought of how these two [youths] could protect me, when one of the youths whispered to me in a manner as to conceal from the other [youth] ‘Uncle! Where is Abu Jahl; the one who used to cause pain to the Holy Prophetsa in Mecca?’ The youth then said, ‘I have made a pledge with Allah the Exalted that I will kill him’ or he said, ‘I will die trying to kill him.’”

Abdur Rahmanra says: “I had not yet answered when the other youth quietly asked me the same question. The level of their bravery took me aback since

Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM Abu Jahl was essentially the General of the Army and was surrounded by experienced fighters who were seasoned soldiers. I pointed out Abu Jahl to them with the gesture of my hand.” Abdur Rahmanra further says: “As soon as I pointed towards him, the two youths darted like eagles, cutting up the enemy lines, until they reached that very spot and attacked Abu Jahl with such velocity that his other commanders were left stunned and Abu Jahl fell to the ground.”

Ikramah bin Abi Jahl was with his father, however he was unable to save him. He attacked Mu‘az with such ferocity from behind that it cut his right arm and it was left dangling. Mu‘az ran after Ikramah, however he managed to escape. Since the partially severed arm was becoming a hindrance in the battle, Mu‘az forcefully pulled his arm off from his body and continued fighting. (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p. 362) Thus, these young boys had a sense of honour for their faith. It was the deep love for the Holy Prophetsa that had made them fearless in that they wished to finish off that enemy of Islam with their own hands, who had caused pain to the Holy Prophetsa for several years. They were not like the so-called [modern-day] jihadists who radicalise young men and children, bidding them to fight for Islam. Rather, they had a purpose; since the enemy did not permit them to live in peace even after they had migrated, in that instance they were prepared to offer every sacrifice so that peace could be established, rather than disorder created.

These days, in order to seize governance of countries, youths are kidnapped and then radicalised.

Recently there was a news report in which a fourteen-year-old Syrian boy who had escaped from there said that he was kidnapped on the way to school and forcefully trained to fight. [He said] “At first I resisted and I was treated harshly. Eventually they sent me out to fight. With great difficulty, I managed to escape them.” Thus, these are the sorts of actions being carried out by Muslims in the name of Islam, which are completely opposed to the teachings of Islam. If there were wars in Islam and people readily sacrificed their lives, then it was only done to safeguard religion and to establish peace in the world. Therefore, there is a stark difference between those who carried out jihad and the jihadists of today.

The Promised Messiahas states: “This is the example of the Companionsra that I wish to see amongst the members of my community in that they give precedence to Allah the Exalted and nothing impedes them in this path. They should consider their lives and their wealth insignificant. I have observed some people send in cards [in the form of letters] in which

they express loss in their business or employment or having suffered any other misfortune, they instantly fall in doubts.” They begin to have doubt if they have made a mistake in accepting the Promised Messiahas and harbour such doubts about religion, the existence of God and the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas continues: “From this, anyone can gauge how far these individuals are from their true goal and aim. Ponder over the difference between such people and the Companionsra? The Companionsra [of the Holy Prophetsa] wished to please Allah the Exalted, irrespective of the trials and difficulties they endured in the process. If one of them did not suffer difficulty or hardships or there was a delay in this regard, they would cry out and weep.” That is, the Companionsra considered enduring hardships as a means of gaining nearness to Allah the Exalted; they had comprehended this.

The Promised Messiahas says: “They had understood well that enduring these trials, one could become like a moth to a flame in the way of seeking the pleasure of God and also seek the treasures of Divine pleasure.”

The Promised Messiahas presented a Persian Couplet:

‫رہ الب یک وقم راقح دادہ اتس‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ز�ر ٓاں جنگ رکم اہنبدہ اتس‬

That is, “Whatever trial befalls them from Allah, there lies beneath it a treasure of the Divine grace.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “The Holy Quran is filled with their praise, open it and see! The lives of the Companionsra demonstrate the truthfulness of the Holy Prophetsa. The noble status of the Companionsra has been described by the Holy Quran in the following words:

َ ْ َ ٰ َ ْ َّ ْ ُ ْ ‫ضی ن ْح َب ُہ َو ِمن ُہ ْم ّم ْن‬ ‫ِمنہم من ق‬ َْ ‫ّین َت ِظ ُر‬

‘…There are some of them who have fulfilled their vow, and some who still wait…’ (Surah Al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.24) “In other words, some of them have attained martyrdom and have achieved their true objective. While others are waiting with the desire to attain martyrdom. The Companionsra did not incline towards the worldly life in seeking to live long lives and accumulate wealth and means by which they could lead a carefree and luxurious life.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “When I observe the example of the Companionsra, I impulsively acknowledge the power of holiness and supreme beneficence of the Holy Prophetsa, in that he brought about a complete transformation in them and made them completely inclined to God.”

َ َ َ َّ َ ُ َ َ ّ َ َّ ُ ّ ٰ َ َّ َّ َ ُ ‫ٓال محم ٍد و‬ ِ ‫اللہم ص ِل علی محم ٍد و علی‬ ّ ْ ‫بَا ِرک َو َسلِ ْم‬

[O Allah, bless Muhammadsa and the people of Muhammadsa with countless blessings and prosperity.]

The Promised Messiahas states: “In essence, it is our duty to remain in search of attaining pleasure of Allah the Exalted and consider this to be our ultimate objective. All our efforts and struggles should be streamlined to seek the pleasure of Allah the Exalted, even if it be by experiencing difficulties and hardships. The pleasure of Allah the Exalted is better and far superior than the world and all its desires.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 8, pp. 82-83, UK 1985) May Allah the Exalted enable us to achieve this!

After the Friday Prayers, I will lead a funeral Prayer in absentia of respected Al-Haj Ismail BK Addo sahib. He was a Ghanaian Ahmadi and passed away on 8 March at the age of 84. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji‘un. [Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

He was a born Ahmadi and his father’s name was Ismail Kwabena Addo and his mother’s name was Jannat Addo.

His father was a Christian and took the Bai‘at in 1928 and joined the Jamaat.

Ismail Addo sahib’s mother passed away when he was very young. He completed his secondary school education from T.I. Ahmadiyya School in Kumasi and in 1964 he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in English. After this he completed his professional qualifications from the Teacher Training College Ghana.

He was then appointed as a teacher in various places and until 1980 he worked as an assistant head teacher. He was then transferred to Saltpond in Central Region [Ghana] and taught English.

He would arrange to provide facilities to the Muslim students in whichever school he worked and he also built a mosque for the Muslim students.

He was appointed as an English teacher in Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. He had the opportunity to teach in various colleges. He also wrote a book on learning English which became very popular in Ghana and Nigeria and was used as teaching material. He was then awarded a scholarship from the University of Bangor in Wales and came to the UK and gained a diploma in the English language. He also served in various roles as part of his service towards the Jamaat in Ghana.

In 1980, the government of Ghana appointed him as the ambassador to Ethiopia. He was serving on this post when the UN appointed him as the chairman of the OAU Liberation Committee and he played a notable role towards the freedom of Mozambique and Angola. For a short time he was also appointed as the ambassador to Libya.

One of his qualities was that he always

11 gave precedence to his faith over worldly things and continued to maintain this as a hallmark of his character. After Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV’srt migration to the UK, he finished his political career and came here, so he and his children could remain close to Khilafat. He worked as a teacher here while in the UK. He had a deep love for Khilafat and demonstrated great love, affection and obedience to every Khalifa. A committee was once formed by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrt to compile a book in order to respond to Salman Rushdie and he was also appointed as a member of this committee. He also played an outstanding role in the field of tabligh [preaching]. He would organise tabligh stalls at various locations and he would also appear on radio programmes for tabligh. He would also organise many question & answer sessions.

In 1986, when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrt established the Pan-African Association, he was appointed as its first President. He was also elected as the first President of the Peckham Jamaat.

In 1994, after the inauguration of MTA, he was one of the prominent students of the Urdu Class programme. He tried his utmost in learning Urdu and was famously known as “Bara Bacha”.

People will know him [because of this].

He was Ghanaian; he had two wives.

Upon the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrt, he was also part of the Electoral Committee for Khilafat. When Jamia Ahmadiyya UK was inaugurated, he was appointed as an English teacher for a short while.

He was very righteous, devoted to worship, steadfast, grateful, warmhearted and an extremely loving person.

He had great passion for the worship of Allah. The members of his family have mentioned that he was regular in offering the Tahajjud [predawn supererogatory] prayer and he would not miss it, even if he was ill. He would recite the Holy Quran in a very melodious tone and with great passion. He had memorised many verses of the Holy Quran and would also try to understand its translation and commentary, so that it could benefit him in his preaching efforts or for the moral training for others. In fact, some of the Ghanaian members have said that they found certain copies of the Holy Quran in his house which had notes written on them in his writing.

In 2005 he had the opportunity to perform Hajj with both of his wives.

He was a very joyful and simple person.

May Allah the Exalted elevate his status and grant him His forgiveness and mercy. He has ten children and 23 grandchildren. May Allah the Exalted enable his progeny to also remain firm on piety and righteousness and attached with the Jamaat. As I mentioned, after the Prayers I shall lead his Funeral Prayer in absentia. ___________ _______

12

Friday April 13 2018 | AL HAKAM Courtesy of Ali Usman Qasmi and Anthem Press

Book Intro

The Ahmadis and the Politics of Religious Exclusion in Pakistan Author: Ali Usman Qasmi Publisher: Anthem Press Ahmadis were officially declared nonMuslims by a special committee of Pakistan’s National Assembly in 1974.

But this did not just happen in a day or two. The problem was deep-rooted and dates back to the time of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s Founder – Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian.

The message of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas was unanimously rejected by major schools of the Muslim Ummah, but – logical, powerful and promising as it was – it was widely accepted by those who saw it from an unbiased angle. As the Community flourished it was destined to face opposition, and so it did.

By the early 1930s, the Community had gained hundreds of thousands of followers, the majority living in pre-partition India. This was a time of great political controversy. It must be remembered that religion was the bedrock of Indian politics, as most of the debates revolved around HinduMuslim issues.

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, then Head of the Community, was looked up to by great leaders of the day – religious and non-religious alike – for his opinion and guidance. It was in this climate that the leadership of the All India Kashmir Committee was offered to Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra.

Despite his reluctance, he was asked to take up the responsibility as

only he was capable of mobilising the Muslims for the cause of Kashmir. The Committee saw great success under the leadership of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, to the extent that it aroused apprehensions in the hearts of even those who had offered him to head the committee. From here, started the organised and politically-motivated opposition of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

After two decades of unsuccessful attempts to curb the growth of the Community, the anti-Ahmadiyya circles resorted to use the unstable political atmosphere of Pakistan as a tool. In 1952, the anti-Ahmadiyya agitation began by the Majlis-e-Ahrar – an organisation founded with the sole purpose of opposing Ahmadiyyat.

Other organisations with similar agendas joined hands and the alliance was known as Majlis-e-Amal. This led to the most organised anti-Ahmadiyya agitation, up to that point, in the history of the Community.

The Majlis-e-Amal issued a fatwa from Lahore on 14 October 1952 where the so-called Ulema unanimously declared Ahmadis non-Muslim.

The fatwa was not only against Ahmadis but also had tones of uprising against the government.

“If such a government is failing to carry out the order of the Islamic Shari‘ah, there was justification for boycotting it.”

This and other fatwas of similar nature led to the anti-Ahmadiyya violence in Pakistan during February

and March of 1953. The government thus set up a committee consisting of Justice Muhammad Munir and Justice Malik Rustam Kiyani to inquire the antiAhmadiyya violence and the differences that it allegedly stemmed out from.

Ali Usman Qasmi carried out, very painstakingly, a thorough research into the hearings of the Munir-Kiyani commission and its outcome. Qasmi’s book, The Ahmadis and the Politics of

Religious Exclusion in Pakistan, provides an insight into the turbulent days of politics and religious conflicts in the early years of the formation of Pakistan.

Where the writer touches upon theological differences, the reader feels that it could be better presented. But then, understandably so, it is not meant to be a book on theology. ___________ _______

(AB)

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad|© Al Hakam 2018