Al Hakam - 28 September 2018

The Happenings at Karbala Part III One of the most tragic events in Islamic history

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The Establishmet of Lajna Imaillah and its Glorious Outcomes

First Nordic Jalsa Salana The first Nordic Jalsa was held in Oslo, Norway at the Baitul-Nasr mosque, starting on 21-23 September

Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Volume 4

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History of Majlis Ansarullah Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Volume 9

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 28 September 2018 | Issue XXVIII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

UK Ijtema Season Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

Helping your Brother Hazrat Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Help your brother whether he is an oppressor or an oppressed.” A man said, “O Allah's Messenger! I will help him if he is oppressed, but if he is an oppressor, how shall I help him?” The Prophetsa said, "By preventing him from oppressing (others), for that is how to help him."

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Ikrah)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Become at one with God

One blessed weekend to another – the conclusion of one Ijtema leads us to two more lthough the Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya A Ijtema concluded last weekend, this is only half the programme during this

month as the annual gathering of two more auxiliaries, Ansarullah and Lajna Imaillah UK is taking place between today and Sunday.

With that being said, the aim of such Ijtemas are the same – to foster an atmosphere of virtue and brotherhood and to better moral and educational faculties, both individually and collectively.

We spoke to Dr Ijazur Rehman (Sadr Majlis Ansarullah UK) who outlined the programme of the Ijtema as revolving around the theme of the Quranic verse “It is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort” (Ch.13: V.29).

In total, six sessions will be taking place across the three days with various scholars delivering speeches on different aspects of the theme. Workshops have also been

arranged around different subject areas to enhance vocational abilities. As always, an ongoing exhibition is part of the Ijtema with Humanity First, tabligh department UK and the activities of Ansarullah UK being showcased.

The main focus of the Ansar Ijtema is upon speeches and addresses to cater for the needs of the Majlis and to enhance spiritual faculties. The entire programme is put together so that those who partake in the Ijtema can be spiritually uplifted and refreshed with each day beginning and ending with prayers.

We were also informed by Sadr Ansarullah that a concerted effort has been taking place to encourage all Ansar to attend with facilities such as transport being arranged for those that require it. As part of the attendance campaign, the majority of the Majlis has been contacted one way or another to encourage them to partake.

The Ansar Ijtema will be taking place alongside the Lajna Ijtema which will be beginning on Saturday. The two-day programme will host an array of activities and speeches for the benefit of those that attend. The Lajna Ijtema theme for this year is “Existence of God” which will be the focus of the inter-regional presentation competition that is well attended attracting a large audience and is a good way of educating both the participants and listeners alike. A separate competition marquee has been allocated for academic competitions such as Urdu quiz, English quiz and English poetry.

By the grace of Allah, the Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Ijtema concluded last Sunday in what we can aptly describe as a blessed gathering. We look forward to these two Ijtemas and the many blessings and benefits they too shall bring.

Those who are not lost in God are not bestowed strength from on high.

Therefore, it is impossible for them to inculcate pure morals. So establish a sincere relationship with your God. Discard all ridicule, mockery, rancour, foul language, greed, falsehood, unchastity, casting lustful glances, sinful thoughts, materialism, arrogance, pride, self-conceit, mischief and obduracy.

Then will you be bestowed everything from heaven. Until you are strengthened by that heavenly power which raises you, and until the Holy Spirit, which bestows life, does not enter you, until then, you are immensely frail and plunged in darkness. In fact, you are dead and devoid of life. In such a state, neither can you contend against any misfortune nor can you escape pride and arrogance when in a position of prosperity and wealth; and you are in every way overcome by Satan and your own ego.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Noah’s Ark, pp. 73-74)

Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

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This Week in History

28 September 1960: Hazrat Babu Muhammad Afzal Sahib, who entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat in 1903, passed away on this day.

29 September 1891: The Promised Messiahas reached Delhi and stayed in a two-storey building of Nawab Luharo situated in Mahalla Ballimaran.

30 September 1895: The Promised Messiah undertook a journey towards Dera Baba Nanak. The sole purpose was to personally witness the famous cloak of Hazrat Baba Nanak. It was Monday, and this 10-member entourage completed this approximately 50-mile journey via yakkas [horse-pulled carriages]. Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ismailra sat next to the Promised Messiahas. as

One point to note is that a very close member of the community fell prey to temptation due to this trip and could not recover till his death. He considered that the Promised Messiah, should not personally go for this journey. This caused his faith to stumble and depart from true guidance.

30 September 1983: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh laid the foundation stone of the first ever Ahmadiyya mosque in Australia. Huzoorrh delivered a speech afterwards in English. Companion of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Maulvi Muhammad Hussainra especially attended this historic event.

30 September 1970: Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIIrh arrived back in Rabwah from Abbottabad.

2 October 1957: Hazrat Musleh Maudra prepared a short commentary of the Holy Quran titled Tafsir-e-Saghir.

On this day, its composing and proofreading project was completed. Hazrat Munshi Abdul Haqra, companion of the Promised Messiahas, had the honour of writing the

Our Ijtemas he Jamaat’s calendar, which is now T turning into a global calendar for a global community, usually has two

28 September - 4 October 28 September 1905: The Promised Messiahas received two guests; one was from Turkey while the other was Jewish. He was asked some questions in Arabic.

Editorial

Arabic text of the Quran, while its Urdu translation and footnotes were written by Qureshi Muhammad Ismail Sahib. This team to assist Hazrat Musleh Maudra in this Tafsir-e-Saghir project stayed in Nakhla – a small town in District Khoshab, Punjab. Hazrat Musleh Maudra would shift his residence and offices to this hilly area when mercury levels rose in Rabwah. Huzoorra was in Nakhla since 23 September, and on this day, he travelled back to Rabwah.

3 October 1956: The Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission in Ceylon published the Sinhala translation of The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, a concise book and masterpiece by the Promised Messiahas.

3 October 1971: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh inaugurated the building of Khilafat Library Rabwah.

This rich library in a rather small town extinguishes the thirst of knowledge of not only the locals, but is even considered a replete with source of oriental and religious studies.

4 October 1899: The Promised Messiahas wrote, “I received another revelation on 4 October 4 1899…: ��� � ‫�� ���� � � �ف‬ ‘Thanks from the Emperor of India.’ This is very surprising for I am a person living a secluded life and disinclined towards rendering any service which might be acceptable and indeed consider myself as dead before my death. Then what occasion can there be for thanking me? Such revelations are symbolic until God Himself makes their meaning manifest.”

4 October 1957: Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh arrived back in Pakistan from England. During his stay there, he learned the language and broadened his understanding of an advanced, fast-paced nation that would soon spread its influence around the world. Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh went to study in London under the instructions of Hazrat Musleh Maudra.

Masjid Baitul Huda, Australia | Twitter/ AhmadiyyaAUS

main highlights in the summer season: Jalsa Salana UK and Jalsa Salana Germany.

This year saw Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Belgium coming together when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V graced their 25th Jalsa Salana. The worldwide Jamaat Ahmadiyya witnessed another blessing of Allah when this apparently small Jamaat hosted 3,878 guests who had flocked from various parts of the world, mostly Europe.

As soon as the Jalsa season has passed, the season of Ijtemas dawns on the horizon of the Markaz here in London. As you read these lines, we see the high-noon of this Ijtema season with the Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya held last week in the vast fields of the Country Market in Hampshire. A tent-city – quite like a miniature of the grand one of Jalsa Salana – was to be seen thriving with Ahmadi youth praying, playing, eating, reading and taking part in a variety of competitions together. They resided there for the three days where the MKA administration had organised an array of activities for their physical and spiritual wellbeing.

It is important to note that when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra founded Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya (also referred to as MKA in this age of abbreviations), he laid equal emphasis on physical wellbeing as he did on the spiritual side of the Ahmadi youth; the Ijtema administration every year ensures that they are able to arrange a feast for both aspects.

The Ijtema fever (or hype if you like) is now at its pinnacle. While the Khuddam and Atfal are settling down after their Ijtema, their mothers and fathers are now heading to the same tent-city in Hampshire. They too are geared up for their own Ijtemas that have commenced today; the Lajna UK and Ansar UK Ijtemas. The same marquees that were erected for the MKA Ijtema will remain for this weekend’s event where one of the marquees will be taken by Ansar and the other by Lajna.

Ijtema is a great training camp in every sense of the term. Whether one is participating in competitions, just popping in to watch a match or two or is part of the organising body, there is always something good to take home.

It is here that many Khuddam and Atfal discovered that they can actually deliver a speech or sing a nazm from a stage in front of an audience or are able to answer questions in a rapid-fire round of a quiz; things they thought they could never do.

Sports is a great means of bringing Continued on page 3

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

From the Archives

Continued from page 2

members of their respective auxiliary organisations from distant regions closer to each other and to build bonds like the Islamic muwakhat (brotherhood) to enable them to inspire each other with the good sides of their personalities.

Those that are part of Waqar-eAmal (voluntary physical labour) learn to put aside their educational qualifications, career excellences and worldly positions to volunteer in physical labour by way of erecting marquees, laying floors, cleaning toilets and picking litter for all three days of the Ijtema. Waqar-eAmal, as Hazrat Khalifaul Masih IIra termed it, literally translates as “dignity of work”. So Waqar-e-Amal alone is more of an academy than a mere department where Khuddam, Atfal, Ansar, Lajna and Nasirat members learn that working with their own hands brings dignity and prestige to their character and not otherwise.

The presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa in the UK Ijtemas is a blessing that is unparalleled.

But is this a blessing that we earned through some merit? Of course not! It is a great blessing of Allah that He has bestowed upon those who happen to live in the UK and are able to benefit from this great blessing.

How do we thank Allah for this? Well, there are many ways.

But one thing we could do is to listen to every word of Huzoor very carefully, understand the wisdom behind it and try to follow it to the letter. For example, if Huzoor mentions the Companionsra of the Holy Prophetsa that fought with him in the Battle of Badr, shall we just take it as a chapter of history that Huzoor is narrating to us? Partially yes, but then we could also take it as an invitation from Huzoor to make ourselves available for the battle that he, as Khalifatul Masih, is fighting against the evils of the world; a passionate, powerful yet peaceful battle.

The blessings of Khilafat transcend the borders of the United Kingdom through the enormous bounty of MTA International.

Through this, all Ahmadis around the world partake of the shower of blessings Allah rains upon His community of believers. MTA brings Hazrat Khalifatul Masih in our living rooms. One can be seated in the comfort of their home, in any corner of the earth, and still listen to every word that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih delivers for our guidance. So lucky are we who live in this age of communication where we can connect to Khilafat just as much as those who live physically close to it. But this happens with the grace of Allah. Praise be to Allah the Almighty!

History of Majlis Ansarullah Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 9 own words. Huzoorra stated: “All those men that are above the age of 40 should establish an organisation by the name of Ansarullah and all those residents of Qadian who are above the age of 40 should enrol in it. It shall be compulsory for them to dedicate half an hour daily for the service of their faith. If deemed necessary, then instead of taking half an hour of daily religious service from some individuals, three consecutive days of a month can Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II blessing an Ijtema of Majlis Ansarullah be dedicated for this purpose.

Nevertheless, all children, elderly azrat Khalifatul Masih IIra was acutely aware of and youth, without exception, must become this important necessity [of having an auxiliary organised in Qadian. The temporary president of for Ahmadi men over 40 years of age] even at the Majlis Ansarullah shall be Maulvi Sher Ali Sahib, time of the establishment of Majlis Khuddam-ul- and to discharge the duties of the secretariat, I Ahmadiyya. However, Huzoorra wished that the am appointing Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dard Sahib, voluntary organisation of Majlis Khuddam-ul- Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sahib and Khansahib Ahmadiyya be first well-established – at least in Maulvi Farzand Ali Sahib… And through this Qadian – then any new measures be taken in this auxiliary, apart from other undertakings, it shall be supervised that there be no individual who does regard.

Hence, two to two and a half years later when not offer congregational prayer in the mosque.” this Majlis progressed in line with the objectives of Fundamental aims and objectives of Majlis Huzoorra and the youth proved themselves capable Ansarullah and other auxiliaries of working voluntarily according to the blessed ra wishes of Huzoor , he then announced the following Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra stated: “I have established Ansarullah, Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya and Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya as three separate auxiliaries so that the spirit of imitating virtuous acts from one another be produced in our community as much as possible. Children imitate children, youth imitate youth and the elderly imitate the elderly. When children, youth and the elderly all witness, according to their respective capacities, that their peers are inclined towards faith, they strive for the propagation of Islam, they are engaged in learning Islamic principles and spreading them in the world and that they excel From right to left: Seated: Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Aziz Ahmad, Hazrat Chaudhary in discharging of virtuous acts, a desire shall ignite Fateh Muhammad Siyal, Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Nasir Ahmad in their hearts that they too should partake in such Naib Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Dard, righteous acts and excel ahead of their peers...

Maulana Abul Ata Jalandhari Standing: Maulana Zahoor Hussain Sahib, Maulana Ahmad Khan “For the spiritual endurance of the community, Naseem Sahib, Chaudhary Zahoor Ahmad Sahib I have initiated the schemes of Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya, Lajna Imaillah and Ansarullah, and on 26 July 1940 (Wafa 1319 HS): “From today in Qadian, the work carried out these three are vital... Do not regard these schemes

by Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya shall be compulsory to be ordinary. In this age, such circumstances have and no longer optional. It shall be necessary for emerged that these are fundamentally important. every Ahmadi who is between the ages of 15 to In former times, it was a different state of affairs.

40 to enrol himself into Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya In the era of the Holy Prophetsa, thousands of within the next 15 days… Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya teachers had emerged through his training who should organise all children between the ages of 8 used to teach others of their own accord and other to 15 within one month and an organisation by people used to enthusiastically learn. However, the the name of Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya be created; an apt circumstances are as such that until arrangements programme should be produced for them with my are made for the independent supervision of people in twos or threes, work cannot be accomplished.” consultation.”

He further stated: With this announcement, Huzoorra also “The entity of Ansarullah is in its own established a permanent auxiliary for the Ahmadis above the age of forty and named it “Majlis right extremely important because the value of Ansarullah”. He also deemed it compulsory for all experience is very important itself. Similarly, the those of age residing in Qadian at the time to enrol value which ambition and passion hold is vital in it. Maulvi Sher Ali Sahibra was nominated as the in its own accord. Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya are interim president of the Ansarullah auxiliary. The representatives of ambition and passion, and following were appointed by Huzoor to assist the Ansarullah represent experience and wisdom.

Without passion, ambition, experience and president: wisdom, no nation can ever be prosperous... ra 1. Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dard MA “My objective, by founding the Ansarullah 2. Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Siyal MAra and Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya auxiliaries, is to complete the four walls of a building. One 3. Hazrat Maulvi Farzand Ali Khan wall is Ansarullah, the second is Khuddam-ulAt this occasion, Hazrat Amirul Momineen Ahmadiyya, the third is Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya and gave some elementary guidance regarding Majlis the fourth is Lajna Imaillah. If these four walls Ansarullah which should be narrated in Huzoor’sra detach themselves from one another, it is inevitable ra

H

that no building will be able to be stay intact. A building is only complete when its four walls are attached to one another. If they are detached, those four walls do not possess the value of even a single wall because if there is only a single wall, a roof can be placed, after erecting pillars besides it. However, if there are four walls, but all four are built aloof, a roof cannot be placed upon them.”

The first pledge of Ansarullah At first, there was no pledge of Ansarullah to be reiterated in Ansarullah meetings. In November 1944, a monthly gathering of the auxiliary took place after the Fajr prayer, under the presidency of Hazrat Maulana Sher Ali Sahibra. In this meeting, Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dard Sahibra, the general secretary, reminded the attendees that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra took a pledge in relation to the flag hoisting of Ahmadiyyat at the Jubilee celebrations and that Ansarullah should repeat the same pledge in their meetings. In accordance to this proposal, this pledge was repeated in that very gathering, in the following words: “I solemnly pledge that I shall strive, to the best of my capabilities and understanding, for the establishment, consolidation and propagation of Islam and Ahmadiyyat until my last breath. With help from Allah the Almighty, I shall present any possible sacrifice for Ahmadiyyat or the true Islam to prevail over all religions and communities and for its standard to never droop down but for it to fly above all other flags. ْ ُ َّ َ ْ َ َ َّ َّ ْ َّ َ َ َ َّ َ ْ َّ ُ ّٰ َ ْ َّ ُ ّٰ َ ‫الس ِﻤ ْیﻊ ال َعل ِْی ُﻢ‬ ‫اللﻬﻢ آ ِﻣ��۔ اللﻬﻢ آ ِﻣ��۔ رﺑنا �ﻘﺒﻞ ِﻣنا ِانﻚ انﺖ‬ [O Allah, Amin. O Allah, Amin. Our Lord, accept this from us; for Thou art All-Hearing, AllKnowing.]

MuftI Muhammad Sadiq Sahibra delivering a speech in Masjid Aqsa

First annual Ansarullah Ijtema and address of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa In compliance with Huzoor’s blessed wish, the first annual Ijtema was held at 4pm after Zuhr prayer on 25 December 1944 in Masjid Aqsa, Qadian. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra inaugurated the Ijtema with a brief but faith-inspiring address. He stated: “This is the first annual Ijtema of Majlis Ansarullah. I hope that in this Ijtema, you will strive to establish the foundation for these works [which Huzoor had mentioned when founding the auxiliary] and that Majlis Ansarullah and the external auxiliaries will also understand this responsibility of theirs; without complete alertness and vigilance, national life can never sustain...

“Now I shall inaugurate the congregation with prayer. May Allah enable this Ijtema of Ansarullah and all their efforts to work as a seed through which, in the future, God Almighty grants thousands of more seeds; then those seeds later act as seeds for fruition until God Almighty’s spiritual kingdom is established in the world in like manner as His worldly kingdom is established in the earth. Amin.

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM A staunch Arya Samajist,

Empowering Women Through Education

commenting on the magazine

Education of women

Misbah, wrote in the newspaper

has always been one

Tej on 25 July 1927:

“In my opinion, this newspaper is worthy for every Arya Samajist to examine. By studying it, the misunderstandings which they have that Ahmadi women are enclosed within the veil and hence to do not perform any work will immediately be dispelled. They will come to understand how much work these woman are accomplishing and how high the degree of their religious awareness and passion for preaching is, in spite of being imprisoned by the veil as a result of the unjust command of Islam. We have become content by establishing an association for women, but we should realise that Ahmadi women have formal organisations in every area and the work of our women’s association is utterly worthless compared to the work which they are accomplishing. By examining Misbah, it will be understood how and to what extent Ahmadi ladies are accomplishing work in India, Africa, Arabia, Egypt, Europe and America.

Their religious awareness is laudable to such an extent that we should be ashamed of ourselves. It has been a few years since their leader appealed for fifty thousand rupees for a mosque and imposed the condition for this money to be fulfilled through the chanda [donations] of women alone. Thus, in a short period of fifteen days, these ladies accumulated fifty-five thousand rupees instead of fifty thousand.”

of the top priorities of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. From the very inception of Lajna Imaillah in Qadian, women have always had exclusive opportunities to read, write and learn.

Misbah has been in continuous publications (except when Pakistani laws imposed sanctions from time to time) and still functions as an organ for Ahmadi Ahmadiyya ARC

women.

Establishment of Lajna Imaillah and its Glorious Outcomes Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 4

Tthe blessed eras of the Promised Messiah

he committees which were established in

as

and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira were all of men, for instance, Ishaat-e-Islam, Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Tashizul-Azhan, Majlis Ahbab, Majmaul Ikhwan and Majlis Irshad to name a few. At that time, there were no academic, religious and civic organisations present for women.

Hence, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra established Lajna Imaillah on the proposal of his second wife, Amatul Hay Sahibara, on 25 December 1922, and its first secretary was Hazrat Amatul Hay Sahibara. After Hazrat Amatul Hay Sahibara, this important service was entrusted to his other wife, Hazrat Sara Begum Sahibara and then, to Hazrat Syeda Umme-Tahirra.

When the launch of this organisation was brought into effect, members of Lajna Imaillah humbly requested Hazrat Ummul Momineen [Hazrat Nusran Jehan Begum Sahibara] to accept presiding as its Sadr. The first gathering most probably occurred under her presidency.

However, having seated Hazrat Umme-Nasirra in her position at the very first gathering, she nominated her as Sadr. Thus, till her demise on 31 July 1958, Hazrat Umme-Nasirra carried out this responsibility in an outstanding manner.

Thus was the inception of Lajna Imaillah.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra wrote the following exposition addressed to the ladies of Qadian on 15 December 1922: “Assalamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullahe Wabarakatuhu. In order to fulfil the aim and objective of the purpose of our creation, the efforts of women are as necessary as that of men.

In my opinion, the perception of what Islam expects of women has not dawned upon them and how their lives should be spent whereby they can, attaining the pleasure of God, become the inheritors of the bounties of Allah Almighty, not only in the hereafter but in this world as well.

“If one reflects, it will dawn upon them that most women do not have an understanding of whether they are capable of other work aside from daily chores.

“The enmity for Islam that is instilled in children through women (mothers) in antiIslam circles can be countered only through

our women. Further, if a spirit of sacrifice can be created in children, then that can also only occur through mothers. Thus, besides their own spiritual and academic progress, the progress of the future Jamaat is mostly dependent upon the efforts of women, since the influence which children retain when grown is not as deep as is retainable in childhood. Similarly, the reformation of women can also occur through women.

“Bearing these matters in mind, I invite those sisters who second this idea and admit the need of the following matters to initiate work together, in order to fulfil these objectives. If you also agree upon the following matters, please notify me so that this work begins as soon as possible: 1. It is necessary for ladies to strive together to increase their knowledge and to relay their gained knowledge to others 2. For this, an organisation requires establishing so that this work is formally continued 3. There is a need for some rules to run this organisation, the adherence of which should be compulsory on every member 4. There is a need for the rules and regulations to be in accordance with the Islam presented by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and which aid in its progress and consolidation 5. There is a need for essays to be read out in gatherings regarding various topics in Islam, especially contemporary issues. They should be written by the members of the organisation themselves so that in this way, the faculty for the usage of knowledge can be fostered 6. There is a need for people already acquainted with Islam to be brought forth for lectures on such topics, which the organisation deems necessary for the objective of increasing knowledge 7. In order to maintain a spirit of unity within the Jamaat, all actions are required to occur in accordance to the prepared scheme of whoever the Khalifa of the time may be, bearing in mind its progress

8. It is essential that you strive and offer any sacrifice for unity of the Jamaat in accord with the Quran, Hadith and sayings of the Promised Messiahas; as is incumbent upon every Muslim 9. It is necessary for you to always be attentive towards reforming your morals and spirituality and for you not to confine your attention to mere eating, drinking and wearing clothes. For this, one should assist the other as fully as possible and should reflect and act on such means 10. It is important that you especially comprehend your responsibility to the moral upbringing of children. Instead of making them ignorant of religion, discontented and lazy, they should be made active, alert and tolerant to adversity. Acquaint them with themes of religion, to whatever extent you have knowledge of and create in them the spirit of love and obedience to God, the Holy Prophetsa and Promised Messiahas.

Develop in them a passion to spend their lives for the sake of Islam and in accordance to its motive. For this reason, reflect over proposals to accomplish this task and implement them 11. It is necessary to overlook one another’s faults when working together and strive for reformation with patience and resolve rather than increasing discord by anger and indignation 12. As people laugh and mock upon every task when it is initiated, it is necessary not to give laughing and mockery of people any value and for sisters to gain the lesson of enduring, with courage and resolve, various kinds of scorns and taunts or ridicule by the public. Further, the ability to give birth to such a strength should be acquired beforehand so that other sisters may divert their attention towards this task, upon observing this example 13. It is important that in order to strengthen this concept and for it to eternally endure, there should be likeminded people to yourselves. And this task can only proceed when every sister who participated in this gathering regards it her duty to also make other sisters likeminded as her 14. It is necessary that to save this work from ruin, only those sisters should be made members Continued on page 8

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

The Happenings at Karbala Part III

Academic Excellence The names of members of Lajna Imaillah who received awards at Jalsa Salana Belgium 2018 from Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa are presented below.

Aiesha Tariq, Amber Ahmed, Shafaq Nadeem, Hamna Jamil, Irsa Jamil, Bariyah Aqbal, Robina Marium Nasim, Ayesha Ahmad, Nayab Ahmad, Amdad Nayila Sadaf, Safina Tehawdri, Waliga Mohammed, Maliha Sadaf Choudhry, Rabia Yaqoob, Saira Yaqoob, Atiqa Ahmad Gill, Bushra Tariq, Tooba Yusuf, Memoona Rajput Bhatti, Ayesha Hashmi, Ifrah Hashmi, Zahra Ahmed, Noor Ul Ain Zafar, Kanza Mehmood, Fateha Sh Naveed, Maria Akbar, Sabahet Ehsan Ullah, Malik Rahwial Khalid, Fareen Berlas, Durineinsamin Ahmed, Sana Shahid, Sundas Berlas, Durinein Sahwar Ahmed, Mansoora Qureshi, Qanetah Hashmi, Dr. Nabila Anwar Members of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Majlis Ansarullah who received awards at Jalsa Salana Belgium 2018 from Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa:

The Mosques of Imam Hussainra in Karbala

Fazal Malik, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Tthe battlefields were ready. On one side were he morning of 10 Muharram arrived and

more than 70 devoted members of Ahl-e-Bait – the people of the house of Muhammad; on the other, stood 5,000 strong, battle-ready soldiers.

As his last effort to establish peace, Hazrat Imam Hussainra addressed the soldiers: “When I responded to your call and came here, you revolted against me. If you want to help me even now, I want that you should not kill me and leave me alone so that I may go to Mecca or Medina and become absorbed in prayer, and Allah will judge in this very world who was right and who was wrong.” (Akbar Shah Najeebabadi, The History of Islam, Vol. 2, p. 77) The darkened hearts seemed to dim the light of the sun that day. No word had a single effect on any soldier, except al-Hurr who had seen the error of his ways and begged Hazrat Imam Hussainra for forgiveness and sought his permission to fight from his side. Being granted what was salvation to him, he fought the battle on behalf of Ahl-e-Bait and died a brave death. (I K A Howard, The History of al-Tabari, The Caliphate of Yazid, pp. 127-128) Not an hour had passed since the first arrow was drawn and the battle was already over; the casualties, including a six-month-old child, were murdered mercilessly by blinded anger. On the orders of Obaidullah bin Ziyad, the head of Hazrat Imam Hussainra was severed and his body trampled over by horses. (Akbar Shah Najeebabadi, The History of Islam, Vol. 2, p. 79) َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا ل ِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return!

With the severed heads of the Ahl-e-Bait and their women and children held captive, the proud army entered Kufa to present their kill to the Governor. This procession was sent to Damascus to be attended in the court of Yazid. In time, the remaining prisoners, consisting of Imam Hussain’sra family, were returned to Medina.

Three years after the massacre, Yazid died in 64 AH (683 AD). He was about forty years old.

No progress was made during his rule to extend Islam; on the contrary, there were serious disasters in North Africa and the unity of Muslims was shredded beyond any hope of repatriation. In his first year, he killed Imam Hussainra, son of Hazrat Alira – grandson of the Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad Rasulullah, peace

Karbala Photos| Wiki Commons

and blessings of Allah be on him. In his second year, he attacked Medina, and in his third year, he charged upon the Ka‘bah. While Mecca was under siege, Yazid died and mercifully, the Holy City was spared. His funeral was led by his son, a fragile 21-year-old young man – Muawiya bin Yazid.

Forced to the throne to follow in the footsteps of his late father, he abdicated. Having assembled the council of the important men of court, he stated that when he first entertained the thought of abdicating himself, he wanted to follow the example of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and nominate a successor as the first Khalifa had done, but he did not find, as Abu Bakrra did, men like Umarra.

Thus, he told them, “I have sought for you six men to consult among themselves like the six appointed by Umar, but I have not found them.”

He added, “I am therefore resolved to leave the choice entirely to you.” After the meeting was adjourned, he locked himself in his residence, from where his lifeless body would emerge not too long thereafter. (There are two different viewpoints on Muawiya bin Yazid, also known as Muawiya II. For further reading on his shortlived reign, see al-Tabari, Vol XX, pp. 45-49, and [Brill] Encyclopedia of Islam, Vol. 7, pp. 268-9.)

The death of Muawiya bin Yazid threatened the end of the Umayyad dynasty. The house of Umayyad, however, survived and reigned for another 67 years, till they were defeated in 750 by Abbasids. (John Joseph Saunders, A History of Medieval Islam, 2002, p. 106)

Epilogue One of the reasons that lives of prophets are so extraordinary is their knowledge of the future, which sometimes can range thousands of years.

The Holy Prophetsa of Islam, summarising the events from the time of his demise to the time when the Messiah of Islam would be raised in a faithless world, foretold the predestined plans of God in these simple yet profound words: “Prophethood shall remain amongst you for as long as Allah wills. He will then cause it to end.

Then a Khilafat will be established on the precepts of prophethood, which will last for as long as Allah wills. He will then cause it to end. Oppressive kingship will follow [which will inflict great pain and misery on its subjects]. Its rule will last for as long as Allah wills. He will then cause it to end.

After this, tyrannical monarchy will follow. Their rule will last for as long as Allah wills. Allah will then cause it to end. Khilafat will then be re-established on the precepts of prophethood. Thereafter, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) became silent.” (al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 5378) The darkness that engulfed humanity on the fateful day of 10 Muharram 680 was to last over a thousand years. The blood of men usurped by the land of Karbala took away the peace from hearts of humans – Khilafat had ended in cold blood. The Umayyad dynasty, which started with Muawiyara in 680, came to an end when it was defeated by the Abbasids in 750. The Abbasids were the longest ruling dynasty for about 500 years when in 1258, Baghdad fell to the Mongols.

After the relatively short-lived Mongol rule, Islam found a new life and up until 1700, expanded from Europe to the Far East. However, the second age of Islam was remarkably different than the first. The Arabs played little, if any, part in it and were subjugated under the Ottomans. The culture of the Ottomans and the Mughals was largely Persian; an attribute despised by the Arabs. By the 1700s, the Muslim empire was starting to crumble under the relentless pressure of Western powers. In India, the base of the Mughal Empire, the Muslim identity was lost and Islam was being defeated on all fronts by Christian missionaries. It was during these trying times that God, in His infinite mercy, raised the Messiahas who was to save the world from the destruction it was speeding towards.

The peace and guidance that comes with angels spreading their wings to bring down the word of God returned 1200 years later, allowing enlightenment to return to mankind. The desolate town of Qadian became the recipient of the revelations of God, just as Mecca and Medina were during the life of our beloved master, Muhammad Mustafasa.

This guidance that saved humanity took place in the form of “our Mahdi” (Sunan al-Daraqutni, Book of Eidain), the Messiah of Muhammadsa, our beloved Imam, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadianas.

Today, we are fortunate that the spiritual leadership founded on the same principles as prophethood is among us and a Khalifa guides us towards all that is good. How blessed are we to have found this guidance and how blessed are we to be the “Aakharina minhum”!

Malik Juned Ahmad, Tayyab Ahmad Bhatti, Ahmed Shahzad, Waheed Ahmad, Mobeen Ahmad Gill, Jazeb Ahmad, Luqman Karim, Ehtesham Hashmi, Tamseel Ahmed, Behzad Iqbal, Imran Saeed, Sarmad Akbar Ahmad, Anosh Iqbal, Muhammad Hamid, Adeel Ahmed, Adeel Ur Rehman, Sikder Mahmood, Shah Zain, Mohammad Faizan, Anwar Alamri, Khuram Shahzad Malik, Rana Talha, Sultan Ahmed Butt, Ahmad Zeshan Muhayedindin, Krishan Ahmad, Taimur Ahmad Saeed, Dr. Bajwa Noman Ahmad, Ahmad Eshaan, Tasleem Ahmad Raza, Mohammad Bilal Khan Secundar, Nabeel Ahmed, Dr Idrees Ahmad

Central Waqf-e-Nau Dept. at Jalsa Salana

IKhalifatul Masih V , the Central Waqf-e-Nau n accordance with the instructions of Hazrat aa

Department London held its Info & Help desk at Jalsa Salana UK from 3 to 5 August and at Jalsa Salana Germany from 7 to 9 September 2018.

The main purpose behind this was to present an opportunity to both the Waqifeen-e-Nau and their parents to have their questions answered and to establish their link with the department. There was also a chance to update their particulars if needed.

Those Waqifeen-e-Nau who were of the age of re-dedicating themselves were able to do so. They were able to update their career status and receive career planning advice. Banners were put up providing general information of the Waqf-e-Nau scheme. The newly published syllabus for the 1-21 age-group and various other publications of the department were also displayed for Waqifeen-e-Nau. A documentary was played on the background of Tahrik Waqf-e-Nau and the purpose of its establishment which was enjoyed by many. One of the highlights of this Info & Help desk was the media section where Waqifeen-e-Nau gave interviews reflecting themselves as being Waqifeen in today’s society and how they can become ‘Special’ Waqf-eNau as per the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in his Friday Sermon of 28 October 2016. Free merchandise was also available for Waqifeen-eNau.

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

Positive Impressions of Islam in Spain

First Mission House in Argentina

Charles Barton Stedman Spain Correspondent

t the 2018 UK Peace Symposium, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih met a A teacher from Spain, Don Iñaki Iraola. aa

He teaches at a Catholic school run by Spanish Catholic group called Opus Dei. As a result of this contact, Qamar Fazli Ilahi Sahib was invited to deliver a lecture to the students at this school on Factors for a Peaceful Coexistence: an Islamic Perspective.

The school, El Grado, is situated in north-eastern Spain near the Pyrenees.

The representatives of the Ahmadiyya Community were given a very cordial welcome and afforded every hospitality.

The lecture was attended with interest and was followed with a fruitful discussion.

Everyone who attended seemed determined to strengthen the newly formed ties of brotherhood.

A press conference was held following the lecture as a result of which an article was published in a local newspaper Diario de Alto Aragón which has a readership of around 26,000 people. The article was written by a perceptive journalist who succeeded in giving an accurate report.

The title quotes Qamar Sahib as saying, [translated from Spanish] “We have to prevent humanity from destroying itself.”

It goes on to say, “Qamar Fazal is a simple man but a fluent speaker. Whenever we ask him about the message he wishes to convey, he begins by quoting some Arabic verses from the Quran which, although cannot be understood by us, sounds convincing nevertheless. His eyes… show how he is moved when he recalls his father, the first missionary of the Ahmadiyya Community in Spain.

“When answering the wide range of

questions from the audience at the end of the lecture, he avoids controversy but without shying away from any of the topics raised. For example, when reproached for the lack of reciprocity in certain Islamic countries, where Christians cannot build temples, he says, ‘Those countries are passing through the middle ages. Nowhere does the Quran forbid the building of churches. We in the Ahmadiyya Community are persecuted by these people; in some places they tolerate us but will not speak to us, while others kill us. True Islam proposes peace. We have to prevent humanity from destroying itself, persuade people to return to their Creator and be grateful to Him.’ “When he was asked why there are so many ways to interpret the Quran, Qamar answers, ‘Truly inspired people are the ones who should interpret the Quran. The Divine law is always superior to human law. God tells us through the Quran that He never punishes a people unless He has sent them a clear warning first. All religions have their prophets who bring such warnings. Those who deny these prophets, whether it be Krishna, Buddha, Moses, Jesus or Mohammad, reject God.’ He adds, ‘We believe that there can be a prophet for everyone. Islam is like a pool that collects the waters of all the prophets.’

“Fazal has led demonstrations after terrorist attacks and becomes serious, even sad, when asked about jihadist violence. ‘These muddled Muslim leaders are the worst people under the canopy of heaven. Their criteria are not religious but political. I feel ashamed when they try to justify misogyny or murder in the name of the prophet.’”

Photo of an article published in the Diario Cordoba by a journalist who attended Jalsa Salana. Here, he comments in particular on Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’saa sermon about immigration. The headline reads, “We wish to establish peace in every nation of the world.”

“The head of the Ahmadiyya Community delivers a historic sermon about the crisis of immigration.”

“Masrur Ahmad warns of the rise of the extreme right which he considers a threat.”

AMJ Argentina Marwan Gill Missionary, Argentina

he first mission house of the Ahmadiyya T Muslim Jamaat in Argentina has been established. It is located in the capital

Buenos Aires.

The establishment of the mission house itself manifests a further glimpse of the fulfilment of the revelation, “I shall cause thy message to reach the corners of the earth.”

Just before leaving for Argentina and starting the mission work here, I had the honour of meeting Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. Before my mulaqat, I was really anxious as I had in mind the many possible challenges and difficulties in starting mission work in a country from scratch. But the blessed words and motivating comments of Huzooraa quickly relieved all my worries.

Huzooraa said during the mulaqat that if you want to teach someone swimming you simply throw them into the deep end. “So,” Huzoor said, “I have done the same with you, but Insha-Allah you will yourself learn to swim.”

Certainly, it is a result of the acceptance

of Huzoor’s prayers that within one year we have been able to establish the first mission house.

We started the negotiation of this place with the landlady in March 2018, but she soon changed her mind. For two months, we continued to look for an appropriate place, but to no avail. It was the beginning of Ramadan when all of a sudden, she called us herself, saying that due to her poor health she wanted to rent this place as soon as possible and we would be her first choice.

Although we couldn’t fulfil all the official requirements to rent a public place, when she found out about our work and purpose of our mission, astonishingly she agreed to rent us the place without attaining all the official requirements.

Now, beside the daily use for prayers, every Sunday we have an open day in our mission house and our doors are open for everyone to find out more about the true teachings of Islam and the advent of the Promised Messiahas.

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

MKA UK Ijtema Insight

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa raising the MKA flag at the national UK Ijtema 2018| MKA UK National Ijtema

Nauman Hadi Correspondent

T

his year’s Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya UK Ijtema was held in the fields of Country Market, Hampshire.

Although this site has been utilised for Ijtemas previously, the site of this Ijtema was situated in the northern corner of the premises where it had not taken place before.

Since the Lajna and Ansar Ijtemas take place this weekend (a week after the Khuddam Ijtema), the layout of the marquees is planned keeping the requirements of all three auxiliaries in mind. Moreover, the Atfal Ijtema takes place simultaneously with the Khuddam.

The Ijtema began with the Friday Sermon of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa which was televised live at the Ijtema Gah. The inaugural session took place later in the afternoon and was chaired by Rafiq Ahmad Hayat Sahib, Amir Jamaat UK. The Khuddam then had the opportunity to disperse into various activities spread across the site.

MKA UK Ijtema opening session | MKA UK National Ijtema

The Ijtema Gah became the centre for the Khuddam academic competitions whereas the sporting competitions took place on the sports field as well as in the indoor sports marquee which hosted a range of sports such as table tennis and volleyball. In recent

years, the tarbiyat department has also worked on and developed an indoor activity centre named The Hub which aims to put on activities that have a moral purpose behind them. Not only is The Hub a place where Khuddam could gather and meet each other (thereby fulfilling one of the objectives of the Ijtema) but could also partake in fitness challenges, answering allegations and the Question Time (Q&A) discussion circle.

Whilst Khuddam engaged in such activities, a group of Jamia students interacted with them to learn about the issues they faced in their daily lives and how they could overcome them.

Whilst speaking to Zan Khan (Mohtamim Tarbiyat, Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya UK) on the purpose behind The Hub, he commented: “Many Khuddam at the Ijtema have a lot of free time, and for this, The Hub is a place where they can meet with other Khuddam whilst also taking part in interesting activities and educational discussions.

The Hub is a place where Khuddam will buy some refreshments, challenge their friends at the HubFit challenges and then listen in at the Allegations Corner where interesting discussions will be taking place in an open forum with missionaries and other Khuddam answering questions. An array of educational talks are also held at The Hub, from mental health to self-defence techniques; these talks prove to be extremely interesting.”

Another well visited feature of the Ijtema was the exhibition which was adjacent to The Hub. Not only the national Khuddam departments (such as Khidmat-e-Khalq and Atfal) displayed their exhibitions but a space was allocated to regions as well. Moreover,

central departments such as Waqf-e-Nau, Humanity First, IAAAE and Al Hakam were also represented.

This year’s exhibition also showcased a photo room where photos from Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya’s archives were displayed. The purpose of the exhibition was to firstly educate Khuddam regarding the theme of the Ijtema – Salat. Secondly, it was an opportunity for Khuddam departments to showcase the work that they carried out and promote their departments so that fel-

MKA UK National Ijtema

low Khuddam could join their efforts.

The Outdoor Discovery Zone hosted a range of talks delivered by experts on various subjects arranged by Majlis Ansar Sultan-ul-Qalam. Talks were of a religious and secular nature. A total of 8 talks were arranged with speakers such as Abid Waheed Khan Sahib (Press Secretary to Huzooraa) who spoke on the travels of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Asif Mahmood Basit Sahib (Curator of Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre) who spoke on the contributions of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to conflict resolution and a talk on astronomy by Musaddir Rashid Sahib (President of AMRA UK).

Sajid Zahid (in-charge of MASQ)

reported, “The primary objective of the Discovery Zone department was to enlighten our youth, whether it be on humanitarian activities carried out by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, or our response to conflicts, not to mention the blessings of Khilafat at every level. The talks attracted over 1,000 Khuddam across all 3 days.”

Sports has been a vital part of Khuddam training since the inception of the Majlis.

This year’s Ijtema saw the development of the indoor sports marquee with 6 sports taking place indoors and the same number taking place outdoors on the playing fields.

Usman Butt Sahib (Mohtamim Sehat-eJismani) explained the importance of sports at the Ijtema: “The purpose of sports at the Ijtema is for the tarbiyat of the Khuddam and to help build a bond between them.

Moreover, to show the beauty of the Nizame-Jamaat (system of the Community) to those who might only attend sports events.

It also is in line with the Hadith which states that a strong believer is better than a weak one. Furthermore, sports are an amazing tool to show Khuddam that faith and our daily activities go hand in hand.”

The Atfal Gah was adjacent to the Khuddam area and hosted the same programme. What is also noteworthy is that although Atfal ages range between 7-16,

Tug of war | MKA UK National Ijtema

arrangements were also made for those under 7 to take part in sports and academics.

This year saw the addition of the new Qaseedah competition, the winner of which was awarded a prize in the final session

by Huzooraa. Abdul Quddus Arif Sahib (Mohtamim Atfal UK) highlighted the Atfal programme by telling us: “The Atfal Ijtema activities are a reflection of the Khuddam activities and take place simultaneously. Whether it be the academics or sports, the underlying principle is the same – that the qualities a true practising Muslim should have be instilled in Atfal. This year’s Ijtema saw the launch of the Atfal Arena which was a culmination of educational and leisure activities aiming to bring Atfal together in a spirit of brotherhood. A desk was also setup where Atfal could write letters to Huzooraa and post them in a letter box that had been created for this purpose.”

The weather conditions at the Ijtema were drastic to say the least. Before the Ijtema began, strong winds had uprooted some of the marquees which resulted in the outdoor programmes being shifted indoors.

However, the weather conditions improved going into the final day and no part of the programme was cancelled.

There is no doubt that the highlight of

Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

8 the Ijtema is Huzoor’saa presence and the attention that he gives to the wellbeing of the Khuddam. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa graced the Ijtema on all three days. Maghrib and Isha prayers were led by Huzooraa on Friday and Huzooraa led all prayers until Zuhr and Asr on Sunday. Huzooraa also visited various parts of the site including all the exhibitions and hoisted the Khuddam flag before leading silent prayers. The Ijtema concluded on Sunday with the final session in which Huzooraa not only graciously awarded prizes to the first prize winners but also delivered an address on the importance of Salat.

One could say that the address of Huzooraa is the pinnacle of the annual Khuddam theme in terms of spiritual and educational training. Though the Khuddam theme is focused upon throughout the year beginning with the local Ijtemas, and though the regional Ijtemas too revolve around the training of the Khuddam with regard to the allocated theme, it is only at the National Khuddam Ijtema when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivers an address on the subject that the pinnacle of training upon the subject takes place.

Continued from page 4

of the organisation who fully agree with these ideas. If, God forbid, anybody does not remain in agreement at any time, they should happily separate from the organisation, otherwise, they should be separated 15. As the Jamaat is not the name of any specific group and young, old, poor and rich all constitute of the Jamaat, it is necessary for there not to be any distinction in this organisation between the poor and affluent. Rather, it should be striven to create love and equality in both poor and rich and to eliminate from the hearts disdain to one another and a tendency of haughtiness because in spite of the distinction of ranks, all men are in actuality brothers and all women, sisters 16. It is necessary to propose some methods for practically serving Islam and to help your poor brothers and sisters; and then to act upon them 17. As all help, success and blessings come from Allah Almighty, it is important to supplicate and to encourage others to pray, ‘Let those objectives be revealed to us which He [God] had in view in our creation. Inform us of the best means to fulfil those purposes and then, enable us to fulfil those means in the best manner that lead to a blessed end. Guide the forthcoming generations also by your grace and make this mission eternally last, according to Your will, until this world comes to an end’ “If you agree with these ideas and are prepared to act upon the rules that are being passed having gone through the Anjuman (and will be so in future), please sign this paper.

Having taken separate signatures, oaths shall be taken from every sister in relation to these rules.”

Upon this preliminary proposal [which was purely voluntary], 13 ladies of Qadian signed.

On the instruction of Huzoorra, these ladies who had signed gathered in the residence of Hazrat Ummul Momineenra on 25 December 1922.

Following the Asr prayer, Huzoorra delivered a brief address and the establishment of Lajna was brought into effect. In his address, entrusting the arrangements of the ladies Jalsa to the women, Huzoorra gave them counsel and advice. After this first gathering, the detailed rules for Lajna Imaillah were published in the magazine Tadibul-Nisa [which used to be published under the editorship of Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira, in Qadian]. In this manner, formal activities began.

(Translated by Fateh Alam, London)

MKA Ijtema - concluding address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa | MKA UK National Ijtema

100 Years Ago...

A Letter from London Al Hakam, 21-28 September 1918 Another Muslim Lady Convert All praise be to Allah that by each passing day, the noble religion of Islam is progressing in this country through the efforts of our honoured missionaries – Hazrat Mufti Muhammed Sadiq Sahib and Qazi Abdullah Sahib. Just recently, a respected lady who has visited America and who used to attend the lectures of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib accepted Islam through Hazrat Mufti Sahib’s tabligh efforts. The name of this respected lady is Miss Spitan whilst her Muslim name is Hasina.

Allahumma zid fa zid. (O Allah increase and increase further.)

Wassalam Abdul Hay (Arab) Maulvi Fazil [degree in Islamic studies] 9 July 1918 London, 4 Star Street Dear Brother; Peace be upon you.

The post that we sent on 25 June was lost at sea.

Brother Qazi Sahib is currently busy with tabligh in Marina [Brighton] and is in good health. He has delivered many lectures and a series of debates continues with various individuals. Many individuals visit the mission to enquire about information on Islam.

At a large gathering attended by many prominent lords, this humble one was granted a position of great honour on the stage.

Hazrat Qazi Muhammad Abdullahra The attendees who numbered thousands congratulated me by raising loud slogans of “cheers”. A photo of this event was published in the Daily Sketch newspaper which has a publication of several hundred thousand.

I have been suffering from a flu and fever for the past few days.

Now, a little cough persists with some chest pains. Please help me through prayers. Wassalam Muhammad Sadiq

To the Editor of Al Hakam newspaper; Peace be upon you. The following report was originally posted on 26 June. However, it has now come to my attention that the ship which was carrying the post was suddenly attacked and drowned by enemy forces. For this reason, I am resending this report. Please include this in the newspaper.

In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

The Propagation of Islam Allah the Almighty has bestowed a remarkable inspiration in the writings and speeches of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq and Qazi Muhammad Abdullah Sahib, missionaries of Islam.

Every week, a gentleman or lady is affected by their blessed words and repenting from Christianity, becomes worshippers of the One God and enters the Ummah of the Holy Prophetsa. Last week, two revered ladies who had regularly attended lectures accepted Islam through Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq. They were given the Muslim names, Laila and Farida. All praise be to Allah for this.

Another revered lady, Mrs Moodling, who had also listened to the preaching of Siyal Sahib and Qazi Sahib, gave written testimony that the Holy Prophetsa was a prophet from God. This testimony from her was achieved through the tabligh efforts of Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib. Allahumma zid fa zid. (O Allah increase and increase further.)

Hazrat Maulvi Fazil Arab is also carrying out tabligh to the best of his ability whilst Qazi Sahib is travelling through the rural areas of England for tabligh and distributing literature. As a result, the message of Islam is reaching many people. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq’s lectures in London every Sunday prove to be very well attended and enjoyed.

By the grace of Allah, one month has passed since the last aerial strike by enemy forces on London. All praise be to Allah for this.

26 June 1918 Muhammad Siddiq (Indian employee at a hotel in London near Piccadilly.)

(Translated by Ataul Fatir Tahir, London)

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 7 September 2018 (Please note that the English translation of the 31 August 2018 Friday Sermon will, Insha-Allah, be included in the near future.)

Delivered from Karlsruhe at Jalsa Salana Germany 2018

Jalsa Salana Germany 2018 After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah Al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated: Alhamdolillah – all praise is due to Allah – today the Germany Jalsa [annual convention] is beginning and God Almighty has enabled us to take part in another Jalsa.

What is Jalsa Salana? We have been hearing for many years, in fact, we have been hearing about it right from its inception, which was more than a hundred and twentyfive years ago, that the essence of the Jalsa as explained by the Promised Messiahas is that this is no worldly fair, nor is this a gathering for worldly purposes, nor to show the numbers of the community, nor to exert any worldly influence upon others. (ShahadatulQuran, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 6, p. 395) Rather, those gathering here should gather purely for the sake of God Almighty, and to not only quench their intellectual and spiritual thirst and to excel in knowledge and spirituality, but also to gain knowledge of the rights of God Almighty’s creation and seek to fulfil those rights.

However, with great regret I have to

such faults and flaws are kept hidden from them as one behaves more cautiously in their presence and God Almighty also covers such faults and flaws so that the reputation of the Jamaat is not ruined by the misconduct of a few, and as a result, such behaviour goes unheard of. But, as I have said that the first thing that I want speak on is regarding the purpose of the Jalsa.

The purpose as explained by the Promised Messiahas is so that righteousness is developed. In relation to the purpose of the Jalsa, the Promised Messiahas, addressing the attendees, stated that they should develop the fear of God Almighty and they should become an example for others in righteousness, piety, virtue, goodness, softheartedness, mutual love and brotherhood.

Humility, humbleness and honesty should establish within them. (Shahadatul-Quran, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 6, p. 394) Furthermore, advising his community, the Promised Messiahas states, “Adopt righteousness, as this is the root for

The essence of the Jalsa as explained by the Promised Messiahas is that this is no worldly fair, nor is this a gathering for worldly purposes, nor to show the numbers of the community, nor to exert any worldly influence upon others. say that although some people do come to attend the Jalsa, they attain nothing except socialising with their friends and engaging in leisurely conversations. Such people then create problems. Some of them also become a means for the youth and young children to stumble and deviate from the right path.

Some carry out extremely unpleasant acts and think that no one can see them. We should always remember that God Almighty is always watching us.

Thus, the first thing that I would like to say today is that each and every single person should firmly understand that this Jalsa is a spiritual gathering. It is held purely for us to progress in righteousness and to establish a connection with God Almighty and to excel in it. In front of some of the external guests,

everything. The meaning of righteousness is to safeguard oneself from even the smallest and most minor sins.” The Promised Messiahas further states, “Righteousness is that even if there is a slight doubt of something being regarded as a sin, one should abstain from it.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p.

321, UK, 1985) If everyone assesses themselves, they will be able to determine whether or not they are making an effort to abstain from that which even remotely could be deemed as a sin. If, upon reflection and after assessing one’s own condition, one believes that they are acting accordingly, then they can say that they have attained the true purpose of Jalsa, or at least are making an effort to attain it. Otherwise, merely listening to speeches, displaying

The Promised Messiahas, addressing the attendees, stated that they should develop the fear of God Almighty and they should become an example for others in righteousness, piety, virtue, goodness, soft-heartedness, mutual love and brotherhood. Humility, humbleness and honesty should establish within them. temporary passion and raising slogans holds no meaning.

Some people raise slogans, however their facial expressions and the manner in which they smile illustrates that they have no real passion at heart and are merely raising slogans for the sake of it. Before such expressions and actions were hidden, but now the lens of the camera reveals their true state without their knowledge and then this is saved forever. First these programmes were only aired on MTA but now they are also on social media and their faces are visible, as are their facial expressions.

Then, setting another criterion for one’s inner state and righteousness, the Promised Messiahas states, “The effects of righteousness become visible for the righteous person in this world. It is an immediate effect. Just as poison and antidote have an immediate effect on the body.” When a person consumes a poison or takes medicine, the effects start to appear and sometimes they are immediate. The Promised Messiahas states, “Thus,in the same manner, this is the effect of righteousness.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p.

324, UK, 1985) This is the criterion that the Promised Messiahas has laid out. Therefore, it is not possible that the effects of righteousness are not exhibited from a person who treads on the path of righteousness. A person who treads on the path of righteousness can never even come close to committing an evil and their thoughts begin to purify. Therefore, everyone should asses themselves in relation this.

On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas states, “The reason why I repeatedly mention these matters is because the purpose for which God Almighty has established this

community is that the true cognition of the Divine which has disappeared from the world and true righteousness and purity which is also not found in this day and age be established once again.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, pp. 277-278, UK, 1985) True knowledge of the Divine has become diminished in this world and worldly objects have taken over. Focus towards God Almighty has decreased.

Although the slogan or the pledge is to give precedence to faith over all worldly things, however, there are many occasions where worldly pursuits are given precedence and religion is left behind.

What is the purpose of the Jamaat? It is to re-establish the righteousness and purity that is nowhere to be found in this world.

Thus, the one who, according to the will of God Almighty, endeavours to re-establish righteousness and purity will be successful, and in the sight of the Promised Messiahas is a true Ahmadi and will be considered as one who fulfils the true purpose of Jalsa.

The other two matters that I want to draw your attention to can only be acted upon if the hearts are filled with the fear of God Almighty as well as righteousness, and there is a desire to fulfil the purpose of Jalsa according to the purpose outlined by the Promised Messiahas whereby he stated the qualities that should be adopted by the attendees. That is to say that after attaining the true cognition of God Almighty, one should adopt compassion, kindness and affection in their hearts for others. Mutual love, brotherhood, humility, humbleness and the highest standards of truthfulness should be established.

There are two types of attendees or groups of people at Jalsa. In fact, one of

10 them shouldn’t be called attendees as such, rather they are part of the administration of the Jalsa and the other group is made up of the attendees. In any case, these are the two groups of people and both of them need to develop these qualities. They

Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM fellow colleagues on duty. This quality of controlling one’s emotions is an aspect of the training that Jalsa provides for supervisors as well as their subordinates.

There is the department of parking, the department of traffic control as well as the

Vol. 10, p. 290, UK, 1985) The Holy Prophetsa stated that one is able to display a control over their emotions, observe patience owing to their excellent morals. They will have the courage to respond politely at someone’s wrongdoing.

The Promised Messiahas further states, “Righteousness is that even if there is a slight doubt of something being regarded as a sin, one should abstain from it.” cannot be exempted from them. Those who are performing duties and those who are attending, both have to asses themselves according to these standards, both the hosts and the guests. If both adopt righteousness, then these qualities can be developed.

Thus, with regard to this, I would like to draw the attention of both towards their responsibilities and obligations. If both of these groups are able to develop these distinctions, the atmosphere of Jalsa will become pleasant and the purpose of attending Jalsa will also be fulfilled. The people on duty may believe that since they have offered themselves for duties and are volunteers, therefore they have accomplished a great purpose or they have pleased God Almighty.

Indeed, they have most certainly pleased God Almighty if they have also acted upon these matters. The participants will also not be able to say that since they have travelled here from great distances, they have pleased God Almighty. Indeed, they will also please Him if they develop a true understanding of God Almighty and focus their attention towards fulfilling the rights of mankind.

Firstly, I would like to draw the attention of workers and hosts towards the fact that they should particularly strive in order to develop these distinctions. They should control their feelings, take care of the guests under all circumstances and be soft-spoken as mentioned by the Promised Messiahas. It is the primary responsibilities of office bearers and workers to be soft in their tone. With regards to being modest, it is the foremost responsibility of office bearers and workers to be modest. The guests should be taken care of under all circumstances and office bearers as well as workers should speak kindly and gently.

Then, there are the mutual relationships between workers. Even these should be based on love, sincerity and brotherhood.

This also applies to the manner in which they deal with the guests, with one another and also between office bearers and their subordinates. If they become angry at another person’s comments while they are working, it will have a negative impact on guests, in particular non-Ahmadi guests, who are told that during the Jalsa of Ahmadis, everyone lives together with love and affection and that there is no expression of any form of anger. If they [non-Ahmadi guests] see such things, or any kind of disorder or even two people raising their voices, it will leave a wrong impression.

Workers should always remember that as soon as they present themselves to serve for these few days, a service which is of the highest form i.e. serving the guests of the Promised Messiahas, they should transform their attitudes in a manner which will neither cause any hardship to the guests, nor to their

departments of cooking and cleaning; every department should demonstrate excellent morals during these days. God Almighty states in the Holy Quran: َّ ْ ُ ْ ُ ً ‫اس ُح ْسنا‬ ِ ‫قولوا ل ِلن‬ That is, “speak to men kindly” (Surah al-Baqarah: V.84). God Almighty has mentioned this aspect in order to establish and uphold the high standards of morals.

This is a general guidance, and so, a believer should demonstrate excellent morals at all times. However, in these particular circumstances, as you have offered yourselves for the service of the guests of Jalsa – the guests of the Promised Messiahas – who have come in order to improve their intellectual, practical and spiritual conditions [you should demonstrate excellent morals]. The workers and those on duty will be able to train them practically through their own practical example. Thus, in accordance with this, you – the workers – will receive a two-fold reward. Firstly, for offering yourselves to serve at Jalsa, and secondly, by training others through demonstrating good morals; by making others realise that every participant of Jalsa should demonstrate excellent morals.

If someone speaks in a harsh tone or says something wrong but notices that the

Man commits many sins and good morals become a source of forgiveness for other sins.

Therefore, the first aspect that every volunteer should keep in mind is to practice excellent morals. Consider how cheap of a bargain this is; how God Almighty particularly blesses those who remain quiet only for His sake and smile continuously. If someone says that they also become angry in retaliation because of the stress of their duty or because of someone’s inappropriate conduct then we should always consider the example of our master and guide, the Holy Prophetsa about whom God Almighty said that he is the perfect model for us. Is there any suffering that was not inflicted upon him? Is there any trouble that he did not experience or it was not brought upon him by others?

The worries and sufferings endured by the Holy Prophetsa were much worse than the most difficult circumstances and sufferings a human can imagine. However, despite all of this, the Companionsra stated that they had never seen anyone smile more than the Holy Prophetsa (Sunan Al-Tirmadhi, Abwabul-Manaqib, Hadith no. 3641). There was always a smile on his face. This is the model of our master and guide, the Holy Prophetsa.

The Holy Prophetsa also stated, rather

Messiahas states, “The heart of a guest is akin to a mirror that breaks upon the slightest push.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 406, UK, 1985) Whilst advising generally in regard to serving the guests, the Promised Messiahas stated, “Pay attention! There are a lot of guests here; some of them you know personally and others you do not. So, it is best that you consider everyone as honourable and treat them accordingly.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 226, UK, 1985) Hence, there should not be any kind of differentiation in the hospitality of guests. It should not happen that the known guests are treated better than those whom the hosts are not familiar with or they are welcomed in an indifferent manner. This year, many guests from Africa and various other countries are in attendance. In the past, only people from East Europe and other areas of Europe would visit. Every single person who comes here should return with delightful memories of Jalsa Salana Germany and the hospitality shown to them. However, this is dependent upon the people working here. Therefore, understand your responsibilities in this regard.

Every volunteer and every Ahmadi who attends the Jalsa should become a source of spreading the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat by displaying a practical model of the beautiful teachings of Islam for those guests attending the Jalsa who are not Muslims.

Therefore, all of you are partaking in a silent form tabligh [spreading the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat]. This includes every Jamaat member in attendance and everyone on duty.

All the volunteers of each department should keep in mind that their responsibility is absolutely vital. As I mentioned for example that there are departments such as traffic control, parking, registration, scanning, cooking, dining, cleanliness and maintaining discipline etc.; not only is every

On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas states, “The reason why I repeatedly mention these matters is because the purpose for which God Almighty has established this community is that the true cognition of the Divine which has disappeared from the world and true righteousness and purity which is also not found in this day and age be established once again.” volunteer on duty is responding politely and showing excellent morals, then this practical conduct will make such a person instantly realise their mistake and this will become a source of reformation for them. The Holy Prophetsa stated, “There is nothing heavier on a scale than excellent morals.” (Sunan Abi Daud, Kitab-ul-Adab, Bab Fi Husn-e-Khalq, Hadith no. 4799) This means that if you were to weigh excellent morals on a scale, then this is something that would turn out to be the heaviest because it is excellent morals that can ultimately bring an end to all the disorder in the world. Excellent morals also lead people towards fulfilling the rights we owe to God Almighty. In fact, the Promised Messiahas has written that in certain situations, the rights due to mankind become more crucial than rights due to God Almighty. (Malfuzat,

admonished us, by saying, “A person who lacks compassion has been deprived of good.” (Sunan Al-Tirmadhi, Abwab-ul-Bir Wa Sila, Hadith no. 2013) If one does not display kindness, then they will also be deprived of attaining any virtue.

This is applicable for the volunteers and everyone else. There are many people who get involved in arguments with each other.

They should also keep this in mind because as a result they are deprived of any goodness.

God Almighty is granting this opportunity to you after a whole year, therefore everyone, particularly the volunteers, should display higher standards of excellent morals, and compassion than before and they should also smile more. Every volunteer should bear in mind the guidance provided by the Promised Messiahas in regard to treating the guest in an excellent manner. The Promised

department serving the guests, rather, it is also silently propagating the message of Islam. Hence, understand the significance of your duties. Regarding discipline, note that it is not necessary to have a stern face in order to be effective, particularly amongst the ladies. Girls uphold discipline at Jalsa UK with smiles on their faces. Someone informed me: “A young girl, who recently became part of Lajna Imaillah [auxiliary organisation] would embarrass us every time we tried speaking to each other by showing the ‘Observe Silent’ card with a smile on her face. She would not utter a single word.”

If people are reasonable, then certainly they will observe silence when they are reminded to do so. If they are ignorant and ill-mannered and do not observe silence or some of them are so uncivil that they silence those on duty by saying: “We know when to

11

Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM observe silence”, in such circumstances the young girls on duty should not say anything to these women. They should simply inform their superiors about this who will speak to them directly. It is not the responsibility of girls to confront older women anywhere.

Similarly, be particularly mindful if someone comes to the dining area after the prescribed dining hours due to constraints such as sickness or a child crying and in need of food. Such people should be accommodated as much as possible. If there are constraints, then they should be informed with utmost civility and politeness. If someone uses harsh words, then remain quiet. Also, be mindful of the cleanliness in the washrooms for both men and women. Yesterday while addressing the volunteers, I directed their attention towards this. It is vital to attain humility and meekness in the heart and love for others in order to perform one’s duty in the best manner and in accordance with the standards established by the Promised Messiahas. If this is practiced, then your duties will be carried out for the sake of God Almighty.

Similarly, the guests in attendance should also bear in mind that, as I have mentioned in the beginning as well, your focus should be towards the objective of your visit which should be to establish a bond with God Almighty; to attain high standards in this regard and to fulfill the rights due to His servants. The guest who come here should always remember that they are attending the Jalsa, as I have mentioned already, to develop righteousness in the hearts and improve their academic, practical and spiritual condition.

If this objective is kept in mind then there will be no room for any kind of enmity or complaint about others, particularly with workers and volunteers. A majority of those on duty are youngsters who are studying in schools, colleges and universities. Some of them work in good professions. They are only on duty because the guests of the Promised Messiahas are here. Those who are here as guests should elevate themselves to the level which grants them the honour of being called the Promised Messiahas’s guests. You do not become the guests [of the Promised Messiahas] merely by attending the Jalsa. If you are not following the teachings of the Promised Messiahas; if you are not acting upon his instructions, you are not fulfilling the objective of the Jalsa. You can claim a thousand times, “I attend the Jalsa as a guest of the Promised Messiahas,” but you are not his guest because your conduct shows that you are not acting accordingly. So the participants of the Jalsa should not consider themselves absolved from these things. You will also have to reform your conduct and cooperate with those on duty. There is no doubt that they have been appointed to serve you but good morals should be displayed by you as well. These youngsters come here with a passion to serve, so guests should also treat them in a polite manner so that their passion to serve and perform duties remains strong and further increases. It should not be that these youngsters run away from their duties for next year’s Jalsa because of the way they were treated by the guests.

Then those guests that are residents of Germany should bear in mind that on the one hand they are guests, but on the other hands they are also hosts. Therefore, they should be ready to offer any sacrifice for those guests that have travelled from outside of Germany,

because all those who have travelled to Jalsa from outside of Germany are now guests, and those residing in Germany have now become the hosts. Thus, you ought to be prepared to offer sacrifices for them; whether you have to offer your seats, or if there is a shortage of space when eating food, you ought to sacrifice your places; if they are in need of any assistance, it is incumbent upon you to help them. On occasions due to a lack of understanding the language, guests require assistance. Wherever they are in need of any help, you ought to provide assistance. This responsibility does not rest with the duty workers alone, rather, this is the duty of every Ahmadi to provide assistance. This in turn is the way to express love and brotherhood as outlined by the Promised Messiahas.

this commandment, which is found in the Holy Quran, does not only apply to workers, rather it applies to every Muslim and in particular every Ahmadi should be mindful of this.

I addressed the workers yesterday and also remind them today to display the highest morals and not to display any sort of discourteousness, but that does not mean that you should test their patience or create situations that disrupt the decorum.

If a worker from a respective department asks you to do something, you should display the best morals and obey them and cooperate with them. Thus, for every individual participating in the Jalsa, they should display the highest moral etiquettes in line with the teachings of the Holy Quran.

Similarly, there are non-Ahmadi guests that attend the Jalsa; every Ahmadi should provide a good example for them. Only through seeing your examples will the outside world see a beautiful Islamic society; in which every Ahmadi displays examples of love, compassion and brotherhood.

Therefore, both men and women should be mindful of this. If there is a shortage of food, one should show patience and steadfastness.

The real sustenance for which you all have gathered here is spiritual and intellectual nourishment, therefore, strive to attain this as this is vital.

Likewise, only go to the bazaar at the appropriate times. I believe that the tarbiyat department usually only opens the bazaar when the Jalsa proceedings have concluded.

However, sometimes people assert pressure by saying that they are hungry and therefore should be permitted to enter [the bazaar].

I have stated many times before that the mehman nawazi [hospitality] department should make arrangements for such people.

Then, with regards to the bazaar in the ladies’ side or in the men’s, the sanctity and decorum of the Jalsa atmosphere should always be upheld. It should not be the case that one only upholds the sanctity of the Jalsa when one is seated in the Jalsa Gah [event hall]. In the entire premises and surrounding areas where there are campsites, marques erected or other halls, they are all part of the Jalsa and people should be mindful of the purity of the Jalsa even in these areas. As mentioned earlier, َّ ْ ُ ْ ُ ً ‫اس ُح ْسنا‬ ِ ‫قولوا ل ِلن‬

During the times of the Jalsa programme, you should remain seated and listen to the proceedings. You should leave only if it is essential. In every speech there is something that can improve the life of an Ahmadi.

Similarly, whilst one is walking around during the Jalsa days, one should remain occupied in the remembrance of God, durud [invoking salutations on the Holy Prophetsa] and istighfar [seeking forgiveness from God]. This remembrance of God and reciting durud will prove beneficial for every person as well as proving beneficial for the entire Jamaat. You should also pray for the situation of the Muslim Ummah to improve, especially given the present circumstances.

Presently in the world, the most durud is invoked upon Holy Prophetsa. Only in prayer alone, perhaps millions of Muslims send salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa.

However, in the world today, the religious, spiritual and secular condition of the Muslims is most dire. This is because the durud is recited ceremoniously and their prayers are such that lead to destruction. Just as God Almighty has stated, their prayers are such which are thrown back in their faces.

Therefore, in such a situation, a great responsibility is placed upon us Ahmadis to invoke salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa and pray for the progress of Islam, not only by showing sincerity and loyalty, but also through reforming one’s condition and inculcating the fear of God in their hearts.

Having migrated to these countries, one should not solely focus on fulfilling ones worldly aspirations, rather, one should strive to reform one’s own condition. Aside from

durud, one should preoccupy themselves in the remembrance of God. Pray that may God Almighty enable us to achieve the objectives of the Jalsa Salana and reap its blessings.

This journey that we have undertaken for a noble purpose, may we continue to receive its blessings and may taqwa develop within our progenies. May we, our children and future progenies, be safeguarded from everything which God Almighty is displeased with. May our wealth be blessed and may we and our progenies never employ such means of acquiring wealth which according to God Almighty is wrong and disliked, or it comes under the category of haram [unlawful]. Pray for your wives, children and husbands that may God Almighty keep them established on faith.

May God Almighty save us from every trial which endangers our faith. May we always remain on the right path. We should pray for this during our zikr-e-ilahi [rememberance of Allah] and even generally in our prayers.

During these days, and even after this [Jalsa], we should be regular in the observance of the five daily prayers – particularly those who are staying here, they should attend the Fajr prayer, in fact the Tahajjud prayer is also organised here and so they should also wake up to offer it. Similarly, if those on duties cannot offer their prayers in congregation, they should offer it in congregation immediately after their duty is over, or they should offer their prayer in congregation before the duty starts in their respective duty areas. May God Almighty enable everyone to lead their lives in accordance to the pleasure of God and enable them to understand the true spirit of being a part of the Promised Messiah’s Jamaat and fulfil its due rights.

What is this spirit? I shall describe this in the words of the Promised Messiahas. The Promised Messiahas states, “Until our Jamaat does not adopt taqwa [righteousness], it cannot attain salvation and nor will God Almighty afford them His protection.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 458, UK, 1985) The Promised Messiahas further states, “Fill your houses with the remembrance of God Almighty and pay alms and charity and save yourselves from sin, so that God Almighty may grant you His mercy.”

May we lead our lives in accordance to what the Promised Messiahas has desired, and may we reap the blessings of the Jalsa Salana. May we partake of the prayers which the Promised Messiahas has made for the attendees of the Jalsa Salana; may we partake of them in this Jalsa and may we continue to partake of them in the future also. May God Almighty continue to enable us to perform virtuous deeds.

I did not mention something in relation to the administration and shall mention it now, and that is that everyone should be vigilant of their surroundings – those attending the Jalsa and also those on duty. Fully cooperate with those on security duties, and if you notice anything suspicious, immediately report it to them. May God Almighty keep everyone in peace and security and may no such incident occur which could cause anyone any kind of loss.

(Translated by The Review of Religions)

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Friday 28 September 2018 | AL HAKAM

First Nordic Jalsa Salana

Tahir Mahmood Khan Norway Correspondent

he first Nordic Jalsa was held in Oslo, Norway at the Baitul-Nasr mosque, T starting on 21 September and concluding

on 23 September.

The significance of the Nordic Jalsa is that it is made up of the participation of five Nordic countries: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland.

By the sheer grace of Allah, the first Nordic Jalsa was a great success with an attendance of over 1,600. The proceedings of the Jalsa were streamed live on MTA International Norway’s weblink service with live interviews of missionaries and presidents of countries, as well as distinguished guests.

Day 1 Friday, 21 September was the first day of the Nordic Jalsa. The Jalsa started with the flag hoisting ceremony at 12:50pm with

AMJ Norway

all national presidents of each country hoisting their respective flags. The Liwa-eAhmadiyyat (flag of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya) was hoisted by Azhar Hanif Sahib, Vice President and Missionary In-charge USA. The flag hoisting ceremony and Friday prayer marked the official start of the first Nordic Jalsa of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

In his Friday Sermon, Azhar Hanif Sahib shed light on the purpose of Jalsa and highlighted what the Promised Messiahas intended for these Jalsas, and that is to bring about a spiritual progress in all attendees. Thereafter, all attendees listened to the live Friday sermon of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa on MTA. Later, lunch was served, and the day was brought to an end.

Day 2 The first formal session started on Saturday,

22 September at 11pm local time. The first speech of this session, after the recitation of the Holy Quran and poetic writings of the Promised Messiahas, was delivered by Zahoor Ahmad Chaudhry Sahib, Amir Jamaat Norway. His speech covered various aspects of the purpose of Jalsa.

The next speech was by Shahid Mahmood Kahlon Sahib on God is a Beautiful Treasure. This session ended with a speech by Mamoon-ur-Rasheed, Amir Jamaat Sweden on Enlightening Examples of Financial Sacrifice.

The second session started at 3pm local time, with the recitation of the Holy Quran. The first speech of this session was delivered by Mohammad Zakaria Khan Sahib, Amir & Missionary In-charge Denmark. The topic of his speech was The Importance of Abiding by the System and its Blessings. The second speech was delivered by Musawer Ahmad Shahid Sahib, Missionary In-charge Finland. The last speech of this day was on The Life of the Promised Messiahas by Agha Yahya Khan Sahib, Missionary In-charge Sweden.

Day 3 Sunday, 23 September was the last day of the Nordic Jalsa. The first session started with tilawat and a poem. The first speech of the session was on The Family Life and Beauty of the Holy Prophet’ssa Character by myself (Tahir Mahmood Khan), missionary Jamaat Norway. The next speech was delivered by Mansoor Malik Sahib, missionary Jamaat Iceland on the

topic of The Fifth Khalifa’s Divine Guidance and Support. The following speech was presented on The Life of Maulana Abdul Raheem Nayyar Sahib by Naimatullah Basharat Sahib, missionary Jamaat Denmark. The final speech of this session was delivered by Noor Ahmad Truls Bølstad on The Progress of the Ahmadiyya Community in the Nordic Countries.

A guest speaker, mayor of Oslo, was also invited during this session to address the attendees. Marianne Borgen, Mayor of Oslo, congratulated the Nordic Ahmadiyya Jamaat on their first Nordic Jalsa and of the pleasure on being invited to such a convention where the message of peace was being spread.

There was then a break for prayers and lunch after which the final session commenced.

The final session started 2:15pm with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a short poem. An Amin ceremony started at 2:30pm with the missionary in-charge of Norway distributing prizes to those children who had completed the reading of the Holy Quran in the previous year. After this, a speech was delivered by the Amir of Norway, Zahoor Ahmad Chaudhry Sahib, thanking attendees of the Jalsa for their support in making the first Nordic Jalsa successful.

The concluding speech was delivered

by Ahzar Hanif Sahib, Vice President and Missionary In-charge USA, who spoke on the topic of tabligh and its importance in the Nordic countries.

Baitul-Nasr mosque, Norway | AMJ Norway Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad|© Al Hakam 2018