Al Hakam - 18 September 2020

Where stars descend Chapter 7 (Reaching the corners of the Earth) Part II Page 5

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Australia Khuddam motivated postaudience with Hazrat Amirul Momineen

100 Years Ago...

New Zealand: Divine help in preaching Islam

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Special gathering in jubilation of Ahmadiyya Mosque, London

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 18 September 2020 | Issue CXXXI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya Australia’s virtual mulaqat with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V On 12 September 2020, the national amila of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Australia along with the local qaideen were fortunate and blessed with an online mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper.

42 members of the national amila and qaideen assembled in the Khilafat Hall, Baitul Huda Mosque, Sydney.

The mulaqat commenced with a silent prayer, after which the amila members and qaideen introduced themselves and their respective roles. Each department had the opportunity to present their reports.

Huzooraa enquired about plans, targets and achievements of every department within Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Australia, whilst also providing valuable advice on direction and implementation.

Furthermore, the amila members and qaideen were fortunate to ask Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa various questions and seek guidance and direction on an array of matters.

Addressing the mohtamim tarbiyat, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa paid great focus and emphasis on encouraging khuddam to

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

Prayer for a resolute heart Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra was asked what the most oft-repeated prayer of the Holy Prophetsa was. She replied and said the following prayer: َ َ َْ ْ َ ُ ُْ َ ّ َُ َ َ ‫ِينك‬ ِ ‫وب ث ِّبت قل ِبي على د‬ ِ ‫يا مق ِلب القل‬ (O Transformer of Hearts, make my heart steadfast on faith.)

Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra had enquired from the Holy Prophetsa as to why he would repeat this prayer so often. He replied, “God is in total control of a person’s heart, as if the heart is held between His two fingers and He can turn it whenever He wants.”

(Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Da‘wat)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

An address by the Promised Messiahas Delivered on 18 January 1898 Divine Decree

become regular in reciting the Holy Quran and offering Salat in congregation. Huzooraa further enquired about what was being done with regard to other tarbiyat matters and to what effect the measures taken had been successful.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa added, “If man offers Salat for the sake of God alone, then many vices and societal ills can be

averted.” Huzooraa further emphasised that all khuddam should know very well what Allah the Almighty wants and desires from us.

Huzooraa further mentioned, “All amila members should demonstrate and exhibit a high moral standard.”

There are two kinds of decree: one may be referred to as suspended (mu‘allaq) and the other is known as absolute (mubram). The operation of a suspended decree may be averted by the grace of Allah the Almighty through prayer and almsgiving. An absolute decree, however, cannot be averted through prayer and almsgiving. Nonetheless, these good deeds are not left useless, for this is contrary to the greatness of Allah Almighty. He returns the benefit of

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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This Week in History 18 - 24 September In this third year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed life of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, this time, with some more details

18 September 1894: The Promised Messiahas received the following revelation: ‫هجرت‬ ‫داغ‬ “Stigma of migration.” Migration is among the traditions of prophets. Many prophets and their communities had undertaken migration in order to spread the religion of Allah throughout the world. Hazrat Ahmadas himself and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra had seen dreams and visions that revealed some of the aspects of the migration with which the community would be confronted.

Among many manifestations, the above mentioned revelation was fulfilled in 1947 during the chaos and devastation caused by the partition of the Indian subcontinent, when Rabwah was established in Punjab, Pakistan, after the eternal headquarters of the community in Qadian, India.

Sufi Sahib was about to embark on Hajj, the Promised Messiahas wrote down a prayer and asked him to read it upon seeing the veil of the Ka‘bah. The wording and gist of this prayer shows his steadfastness, righteousness and deep desire for the revival of Islam.

19 September 1891: On this date, the Promised Messiahas dictated to Mir Abbas Ali Sahib of Ludhiana a reply for Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira (born 1855, died 3 January 1935). In this reply, Huzooras encouraged him to stand strong in the face of adversity and opposition.

After providing a rebuttal to points raised by Maulvi Rashid Ahmad in their religious debate, Huzooras informed Pir Sahibra that the outbreak of cholera had intensified in Qadian and had claimed the life of his eldest daughter, Ismat, only a day earlier. Harzat Ahmad’sas first daughter, Ismat, who was born in Ambala in May 1886, died in 1891 and was buried in Gori-eGhariban, Ludhiana.

19 September 1907: Recalling the events of September 1907, when his beloved son Mirza Mubarak Ahmad departed this world, the Promised Messiahas wrote: “This has been a period of trials. For about 20 to 25 days, I have not been able to sleep.

Last night, in a light slumber, I received the revelation: ‫گا‬ ‫هو ي‬ ‫وخش‬ ‫دخا‬ “[God has been pleased.] This indicates that God is pleased that I have lived up to this trial …

18 September 1902: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Mian Abdullah Sanaurira, educating him regarding the use of the recently introduced vaccination to combat the plague in India. Huzooras shared some recorded side effects of this and guided him to comply with the instructions of the government as though he was its employee.

Hazrat Ahmadas, before closing his letter, told his devout companion that he had penned a whole chapter in his book Kishti-e-Nuh, detailing this entire episode of inoculation during the days of the plague outbreak. He also said that this book was being printed and it would reach the readers in the coming weeks.

19 September 1885: On this date, which was 9 Dhul-Hijjah 1302 AH, Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan Sahib read out a prayer in the field of Arafat, which was written by the Promised Messiahas.

In the early days of this year, when Hazrat

“Thereafter, I went to sleep and in my dream, I saw that I had a paper in my hand, on which there were 50 or 60 lines of beautiful handwriting. I read the writing, but the only phrase I remember out of it was: ‫يا عبدالله اني معك‬ “[O servant of Allah, I am with you.] Reading these lines gave me as much joy as if I had seen God Himself.”

20 September 1886: The Promised Messiahas extended his condolences to Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra on the demise of his young son and prayed that he received the best reward for showing such patience at this huge loss. In this letter, Huzooras detailed the ongoing printing operation of his two books, Surma Chasham-eArya and Siraj-e-Munir. Hazrat Ahmadas penned

the difficulties in finding funds to cope with the expenditures of paper etc. Huzooras encouraged him to find some potential buyers among his circle of acquaintances to pay back the loans borrowed for these tasks. Huzooras prayed for his success and gave glad tidings if he could help in this noble cause.

20 September 1886: The Promised Messiah’s book Surma Chasham-e-Arya was published.

This book contains the details of a debate held in Hoshiarpur and its aftermath between the Promised Messiahas and Lala Murli Dhar on 11 and 14 March 1886.

20 September 1886: The Promised Messiahas wrote a leaflet, citing details of his new challenge regarding heavenly signs. He said that now, everyone was invited to come and stay in Qadian for 40 days instead of one year and with the mercy of Allah, those who stay would experience Divine signs shown in his favour.

20 September 1887: The Promised Messiahas notified Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira that paan (betel) leaves were received in Qadian, but cooking oil was not with the consignment.

Huzooras had hoped that it would reach on this date.

20 September 1897: The Promised Messiahas issued a thorough notification consisting of 20 pages, providing details of the court case with Dr Henry Martyn Clark, a notable medical missionary stationed in Amritsar, who leveled false accusations of attempted murder against the Promised Messiahas in the court of District Magistrate Captain William Douglas in Ludhiana.

Prior to this notification, earlier on 23 August, after multiple hearings, the court categorically rejected this whole falsely-woven and malicious accusation by declaring Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas innocent and not guilty in all charges. After the court decision, Huzooras deemed it appropriate to inform the local administrations of almost all Indian districts, as his followers were residents of these areas. This announcement carried the account of the court case and recorded some statements and certificates (in favour of Huzooras and his family) of JM Wilson, Mr Robert Cast and Sir Robert Egerton Financial Commissioner of Punjab in both English and Urdu.

20 September 1898: Zia-ul-Islam Press, Qadian printed and distributed 700 leaflets Continued on next page >>

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

Whilst offering guidance to the mohtamim mal (finance), Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated that all khuddam should be aware of the importance of financial sacrifice and that it should be clear that chanda and financial sacrifice is solely to earn God’s pleasure.

Following this, addressing the mohtamim Atfal, Huzooraa enquired as to how many Atfal were active and further stated that, on occasions, when Atfal reach the age of 14-15, they tend to take a backseat and distance themselves and become inactive. Thus, Huzooraa stated, special and close attention should be paid with regard to the Atfal’s tarbiyat and further added that in this day and age, it is important to explain to the Atfal the vices of society so that they are aware and clear on what is good and what is bad in accordance with and in light of the Islamic Shariah.

Whilst talking to the mohtamim ishaat (publications), Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if there was any magazine for Khuddam in Australia and stated that work should be done in initiating a magazine for Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya on quarterly basis, wherein articles on the true teachings of Islam, common questions and articles on contemporary issues should be published to strengthen the relationship and bond between the youth and the Jamaat.

Following this, Huzooraa enquired from the mohtamim nau mubai‘een (new converts) about the new converts and about the plans and efforts that were being conducted to absorb them into the system of the Jamaat. Huzooraa, whilst guiding the mohtamim nau mubai‘een, stated that it is essential to remain in contact and establish a unique bond with them.

One amila member – whilst informing Huzooraa of a new school curriculum that recently started in some schools in Australia in which they teach Islam – stated that some points that are taught in this subject are not in line with the teachings of the Jamaat. He asked if parents should continue to send their children to such classes.

Huzooraa stated that the school should

be informed that only those points should be taught that are collectively agreed upon by all Muslims and which are in accordance with the Holy Quran and practice of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa added that controversial issues should not be discussed in these lessons.

One person, whilst discussing the love God has instilled in the hearts of human beings for children, asked Huzooraa how one could inculcate within them the same level or even greater level of love for Allah and the Holy Prophetsa.

Answering this, Huzooraa stated, “This depends on the individual’s efforts.”

Huzooraa added that one should fervently

<< Continued from previous page

regarding the books of the Promised Messiahas.

It stated that from now on, any book without the signature and stamp of the Promised Messiahas would be considered a stolen one.

21 September 1887: The Promised Messiahas wrote to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira that cooking oil had not yet been received and asked him whether he could enquire the reason as to why it had not been delivered yet. Huzooras reminded him repeatedly that an active, wise and honest housemaid was needed to entertain the two toddlers, Ismat and Bashir Awwal (the first).

21 September 1903: The Promised Messiahas, received a revelation in Urdu: ‫وملس انپہ ین‬ ‫اہلل ىلص اہلل عل� یہ‬ ‫روسل‬ ‫وہےئ ہعلق دنہ ی‬ �‫زگ‬ ‫م‬ (The Messenger of Allah, on whom be the peace and blessings of Allah, has taken shelter in the fortress of India.)

pray to God for this to become achievable.

Huzooraa then went on to narrate an incident of Hazrat Alira and his son, in which his son asked Hazrat Alira if he loved him, to which Hazrat Alira replied in the affirmative. Then he asked if he loved God, to which he again replied in the affirmative. He then asked how it was possible to love both at once.

Upon this, Hazrat Alira replied that the level of love for both is different and that, to him, after God’s love, everything is secondary.

Before the mulaqat concluded, one person stated and expressed to Huzooraa that he was a waqif-e-zindagi and asked Huzooraa for advice that could help him in life and in his waqf. Upon this, Huzooraa

22 September 1883: The Promised Messiahas expressed his gratitude after receiving the letter of Mir Abbas Ali Sahib of Ludhiana and prayed for a secure end in the case of any temptation. Huzooras opened his detailed reply with the explanation of a hadith and to make clear his viewpoint, Hazrat Ahmadas put forward verses of the Holy Quran and other logical arguments. Huzooras penned many valuable points in favour of the acceptance of prayers.

22 September 1895: The Promised Messiahas endeavoured his utmost to revamp the style and class of religious debates being conducted in the Indian subcontinent. On this day, he drafted a meticulous announcement on the abovementioned topic. This was printed in Zia-ul-Islam Press Qadian, carrying supporting signatures of hundreds of honourable Muslim persons of influence.

24 September 1884: Some Muslims founded Anjuman-e-Himayat-e-Islam on this day. This was out of their desire to help Islam and its

quoted the following couplets of the as Promised Messiah ‫ خ‬: ‫�ال ی‬ ‫م‬ �‫دب رت ونب رہ ا‬ ‫ی ےس اےنپ ی‬ (Consider yourself lower than everyone else.) ‫ی اھت ی ب‬ ‫رغ� و ےب سک و انمگم و ےب رنہ‬ ‫م‬ (I was poor, helpless and without any skill.)

Huzooraa also mentioned a revelation of the as Promised Messiah : ‫ئ‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ی�ری اعزجاہن ہ‬ ‫را�ی اس وک دنسپ ی‬ �‫آ‬ (He is pleased with your humble ways.)

Huzooraa further said, “Offer the five daily prayers and fear Allah.” Huzooraa added, “Show humility, exhibit good morals and fulfil the rights of God and His creation.”

With this, the mulaqat came to a close.

followers in those times of great dismay, but the Promised Messiahas highlighted their fallacy saying that it was the time of the Messiah and rather than worldly maneuvers and organisational efforts, only Divine Help could see success. But Hazrat Ahmadas and his followers kept helping the hands of this organisation with their efforts and used this platform to help the cause of Muslims, like in 1891, a Christian by the name of Abdullah James made three objections against Islam. He argued that the Holy Prophetsa had – God forbid – been in doubt about his own prophethood, he did not show any miracles and that he did not possess any knowledge of the unseen. Anjuman Himayat-e-Islam sent these questions to three eminent Muslim scholars, including Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdias, for their answers. Later on, Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra was invited to address the Annual Conference of Anjuman Himayat-eIslam in Lahore in 1893.

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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these prayers and alms by some other means. In some cases, God Almighty causes a delay in the operation of a decree or postpones it for some time.

The source from which we learn about suspended and absolute decrees is the Holy Quran. Although these exact words do not appear; however, the Holy Quran states: َ ُ ‫ْاد ُعونِي أ ْس َت ِج ْب لَك ْم‬ The translation of this verse is, “Supplicate and I shall accept.” Now this demonstrates that prayer can be accepted and through prayer, punishment can be averted. What to talk of thousands, nay, every affair of man can be settled through prayer. It ought to be borne in mind that Allah the Exalted possesses omnipotent control over everything. He does as He wills.

Whether people are aware of His hidden powers or not, the vast experiences of a great many and the manifest outcome of the prayers of countless fervent supplicants clearly demonstrate that God commands a hidden and unseen power. He effaces whatever He wills, and establishes whatever He wills. It is not necessary for us to reach the depths of this phenomenon; nor need we endeavour to understand fully the essence and nature of this system. When it is in the knowledge of Allah Almighty that something will occur, there is no need for us to involve ourselves in a dispute or debate over how. God Almighty has subjected a man’s destiny and fate to various conditions, and it may be averted through repentance, humility and meekness. When a person is touched by some sort of pain or affliction, they naturally and instinctively incline towards good deeds. They feel an apprehension and anguish within themselves, which awakens them and pulls them towards virtuous deeds, distancing them from sin. Just as we learn of the efficacy of various medicines through experience, in the same manner an individual suffering from affliction receives glad tidings and satisfaction through true dreams and revelation when they fall down at the threshold of God Almighty with extreme humility and lowliness, beseeching and supplicating God, saying: “O my Lord! O my Lord!”

Hazrat Ali, may Allah honour him, says: “When a prayer reaches its pinnacle through patience and sincerity, it is accepted”. The fact that prayer, almsgiving and charity avert divine punishment is so conclusively established a fact that 124,000 prophets are in consensus on the matter and tens of millions of pious, righteous individuals and saints testify to this through their own personal experience.

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

155 - 156)

Australia Khuddam motivated post-audience with Hazrat Amirul Momineen

Waqas Ahmed Sadr MKA Australia

National Amila Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Australia last met with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa two years ago.

Ever since we received the confirmation of an audience with Huzooraa, there was a great deal of excitement, anxiousness and a natural worry that although it is always a huge honour and privilege to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa and present our reports and performance; however, there is always a question in mind that are we even deserving of this? And have we done enough?

This is never the case, as there is always more to be done.

The moment Huzooraa came on the screen and said “Assalamo alaikum” and asked us to be seated with a very loving smile on his face, all the worry and anxiousness went away.

On the one hand, Covid-19 has restricted the movement of people and on the other, Allah the Almighty has opened up new avenues for the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas, through which we have been able to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa virtually, sitting 10,000 miles away.

This year, all Ahmadis in Australia were hopeful that Huzooraa might visit Australia.

Huzoor’saa last visit to Australia was in 2013 and before that, Huzooraa visited Australia in 2006. There are many Ahmadis in Australia who have never met Huzooraa.

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, although Huzooraa could not physically come to Australia; however, through this virtual meeting, all Khuddam and Atfal felt as though Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa was

physically present amongst us.

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, 30 national amila members and 12 local qaideen were blessed to participate in this virtual meeting. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, only qaideen from Sydney and NSW were able to participate.

The meeting ran for an hour and 20 minutes in which all attendees introduced themselves and the national amila presented their departmental reports.

Huzooraa provided his guidance to each department. Huzooraa said in regard to the talim department that the national amila, qaideen and their local amilas should take the talim exam first and then expect other Khuddam to take such exams.

Similarly, regarding the tarbiyat department, Huzooraa said that they should also remind Khuddam of other tarbiyat issues, like to avoid watching inappropriate television programmes, avoid inappropriate friendships and married men should treat their spouses with respect and care.

Huzooraa instructed that they should try to ensure that there are less divorces and marital issues; national amila members should show their moral examples; Khuddam should be trained to get married to Ahmadis, rather than outside the Jamaat and Huzooraa reminded everyone how we should save ourselves from the different social ills of society. This should also be part of your tarbiyat plan. If one prays properly for the sake of Allah, then one can be saved from a lot of ills. Khuddam should be reminded, Huzooraa said, about Salat, but also conduct tarbiyat programs and teach Khuddam what Allah the Almighty desires from us.

Huzooraa said, while answering a question on the moral training of children, that there is a narration about Hazrat Alira that his son asked him “Do you love me?” to which Hazrat Alira replied, “Yes”. Then, his son asked, “Do you also love Allah?” to which he replied, “Yes”. His son asked “How is it possible that you can love both at the same time?” to which he replied, “Love has different levels. Allah’s love takes first priority and your love is secondary.”

Huzooraa said that Khuddam should love their children, but according to Allah’s teachings. If children are doing the wrong things and not acting in accordance with the commandments of Allah and we say that we love our children and don’t admonish them, then this is wrong. From childhood, we should inculcate in the hearts of children that we love them; however, the love of Allah takes precedence. Therefore, if our children want us to love them, they should love Allah and obey His commandments.

After the meeting, the level of energy in everyone, was at an all time high. Attendees started discussing plans on how to improve the departments and achieve the targets mentioned by Huzooraa.

Everyone felt that such a meeting should happen more often because even a brief moment with Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa does wonders for one’s spiritual levels and motivation to serve Jamaat.

May Allah the Almighty bless our beloved Huzooraa with a long, healthy life and may we progress under his blessed guidance; may Allah bring that time once again that we can meet Huzooraa again.

Amin.

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Where stars descend Chapter 7 (Reaching the corners of the Earth) Part II

Asif M Basit

As Rah-e-Huda evolved from what was once Persecution News and then Persecution to finally become what it is today, the set for the show always remained the same. The faces that would appear on the show would also be relatively the same. Thus, the impression it had on viewers was the same as before, when it was not yet live.

One day, Huzooraa enquired, “Your set is still the same. Is that not going to change?”

It was obvious that this question was such that could not be answered in a mere “yes” or “no”. Huzoor’s desire had been understood and so, whatever chairs and table were available at the time were brought together to form a new set.

In the days that ensued, Huzooraa delivered an address from Baitul Futuh that was relayed live for a Jalsa Salana via MTA, after which, Huzooraa graciously visited the MTA studios in Baitul Futuh.

After entering the studio, Huzooraa enquired, “Where is Rah-e-Huda filmed?”

The set for the show had been designed in a rather simple fashion. However, Huzooraa specifically gave instructions as to how he wished for the set to be. He even asked for a paper and pen and drew up a design to explain how he wanted the set to appear.

The set was designed and built according to Huzoor’saa instructions and remained in the Baitul Futuh studios for many years.

By observing Huzoor’saa close attention to detail, the importance of MTA programmes became imprinted on my heart and a heartfelt prayer was made for Huzooraa. May Allah enable us to become worthy of this love and attention. Amin.

In December 2009, it had been six months since Rah-e-Huda was first broadcast live.

Under Huzoor’s guidance and supervision, the programme had become properly established and had surpassed its teething issues. All matters related to the programme had now become part of a normal routine.

During one show in those days, a question was asked live pertaining to the history of the Jamaat and so, the programme took a turn towards history.

In a following mulaqat, after hearing about the latest show, Huzooraa said, “A separate show should be made to present the history of the Jamaat as it is necessary to inform the younger generation of its history.”

I should mention here that other programmes also have always received Huzoor’saa guidance. Just as a specialist doctor is aware of how a medicine prescribed by them will act and react in the body, so too is Huzooraa precisely aware of how one’s aspirations skyrocket after receiving encouragement from him. Such a person immediately sets plans and desires to achieve everything there and then.

With such a mindset, however, one is more prone to err. Thus, from the very beginning, Huzooraa always explained that one should work with wisdom )‫ (وہش‬rather than passion )‫(وجش‬. In my experience, I have found that Huzooraa dislikes a person to work unnecessarily quickly. That is why whenever I have suggested something using only my passion and excitement, I have always been advised by Huzooraa to use wisdom and reflection and discuss with the other departments I would have to collaborate with. Huzooraa advises me, where appropriate, to discuss the matter with technical teams, if it involves technical issues; if it is a programme, then to discuss with the participants regarding the most suitable day of recording.

There are countless examples of when Huzooraa has advised the excited, eager, enthusiastic young man in me to utilise wisdom, reflection, planning, patience and sound judgment.

How much I have benefitted from this advice, only the Concealer of all flaws – God Almighty – knows. However, I can say that this unworthy servant is extremely grateful to his beloved master for his benevolence; otherwise, where would we receive such guidance from, that one should not simply act in excitement and love, rather one should reflect on the situation at hand and assess what the best plan of action is.

The instruction to work with such

This Rah-e-Huda set was designed and built according to Huzoor’saa instructions and served as a set for many shows in the Baitul Futuh studios for a number of years

moderation was in fact taught to us by the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and these very ways have been adopted by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa today.

Now, let us turn our attention to the new programme that was to be based on the Jamaat’s history.

I discussed this idea with the technical staff and before proposing names as possible participants of the show, gathered information regarding the potential panellists. Thereafter, I searched for a presenter for the show and planned for my next mulaqat with Huzooraa in which I would present a proper synopsis.

After I had presented everything, Huzooraa graciously approved the proposal and the programme began. The show was named Tarikhi Haqaiq by Huzooraa himself.

In its very inception, the programme was presented by Shahid Mahmood Sahib (Waqif-e-Nau), Ijaz Ahmad Tahir Sahib and Mashood Iqbal Sahib. Later programmes were presented by Aziz Bilal Sahib.

Huzoor’saa desire was that more presenters should gain experience in presenting so that, where they were needed, we had more Urdu presenters prepared for other shows also.

In the earlier shows, Munawar Ahmad Khurshid Sahib and Naseer Habib Sahib would be invited as guests.

This programme had now begun and was being aired every week. When the discussion reached the time of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra, I felt that it would be appropriate to propose my father’s name, Abdul Basit Shahid Sahib, as a guest as he had the good fortune of authoring the last three volumes of Swaneh Fazl-e-Umar; however, I felt an apprehension in suggesting my father’s name as it could have seemed inappropriate.

In one mulaqat, Huzooraa asked, “Why don’t you invite your father? He worked on Swaneh Fazl-e-Umar and must also

have some personal recollections of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.”

At the time, a decade had passed since my father’s retirement; however, not only did Huzooraa remember him himself, but also his achievements. And this is not exclusive to my father; for this show, Tarikhi Haqaiq, Huzooraa would also instruct me to invite the late Bashir Ahmad Khan Rafiq Sahib every so often. Then, on one occasion, Huzooraa told me to invite Kamal Yusuf Sahib from Norway to the show. When he came, we recorded more than one programme.

This made me realise that Huzooraa is not just aware of those who are in service, but he also remembers the scholars who, technically, have retired but are present.

Huzooraa took into consideration their services and the show also benefitted a great deal from their contribution.

Quite some time had elapsed since the programme had started and become a regular routine, when Huzooraa established another show. This is around 2010.

Many Islamic channels had now commenced broadcast in the Western world, many of whom provided the facility of live calls.

Although Rah-e-Huda was being broadcast at the time wherein live calls were being taken, but due to the nature of the programme – in that it was primarily for disputed matters – fiqhrelated (jurisprudence) questions were not addressed. The risk in accepting such questions was that had we taken even one question on fiqh, the discussion would have taken a complete turn and fiqh would have become the real discussion.

At the time, most of the other Islamic channels would discuss fiqh when taking live calls. When this was brought to Huzoor’saa knowledge – that some Ahmadis were listening to those shows on fiqh and faced the potential risk that they could start adopting their fiqh as a way of life – Huzooraa

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

6

Tarikhi Haqaiq (Historic Facts)

immediately approved a programme to begin on jurisprudence.

This programme was named Fiqhi Masail. Waseem Ahmad Fazal Sahib was appointed as the host of the show, while Zaheer Ahmad Khan Sahib became a regular guest from London along with Mubashar Ahmad Kahlon Sahib, Mufti-e-Silsila.

Viewers began sending in their questions via email and their answers were given. In this way, Ahmadis across the globe were given authentic information regarding fiqh.

Readers will be aware that fiqh can be somewhat a difficult subject; although there is always room for debates, but disputes can also arise as a result of such debates.

Let us now turn our attention towards the other Islamic channels that were discussing fiqh. Fiqh was a preferred subject for discussion and continued day and night for it is a much-loved subject by many Muslims.

What should be done when one has missed one rak‘at in congregational prayer; if someone experiences acidic reflux during fasts, should they continue fasting; if one injures their foot, then whilst performing ablution should they wash their feet and if so, should they only wash the foot that is uninjured or both; these were questions that were being covered at the time.

On those channels, when the answer to any of these questions would be given by a scholar, another scholar would disagree, while another would disregard the opinion of the first two scholars and produce their own fatwa. One channel would accuse another of misinformation and claim that their answers to the matters at hand were correct, when in fact their scholars would also have differences.

So when Fiqhi Masail began airing on MTA, another aspect of the importance of Khilafat came to light. If, at any point, it was felt that an answer presented was not satisfactory, it would be presented to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa and either Huzooraa would declare a ruling there and then, or he would say to have Dar-ul-Ifta (the judiciary) send a report on the matter.

When the report for Dar-ul-Ifta would be presented to Huzooraa, he would either accept their ruling as it was or set it aside and clarify the matter himself.

Many faith-inspiring events unfolded when presenting these matters on fiqh to Huzooraa, from which it became evident that Huzooraa possesses a great amount of knowledge in the realm of fiqh.

Before being divinely assigned the responsibility of Khilafat, Huzooraa was able to observe matters related to qaza (the courts) closely. The Ahmadiyya fiqh went

through an evolutionary phase and that too was closely observed by Huzooraa. The Holy Quran, hadith, sayings of the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa would either be easily recalled due to being present in his memory, or he would be fully aware of where to find an answer.

Even though this is the case, Huzooraa still permits the relevant departments to continue functioning and assume their responsibilities by asking for their opinions and thoughts on a given matter; thus, the concerned departments go through a unique process of evolution.

It had been a few months since this programme began and it was the month of Ramadan. In my understanding, Fiqhi Masail had started when the very first show aired on MTA; however, when Ramadan came, I realised that the foundations of this programme had already been laid by Huzooraa early on.

In the previous Ramadan, a programme by the name of Al-Siyam had begun with Huzoor’saa approval, wherein fiqh related questions would be taken. This programme was a weekly show and limited only for the duration of Ramadan. The show was presented by Zaheer Khan Sahib and in the panel was Mubashar Kahlon Sahib who was in the UK at the time.

Now that another Ramadan had come, we asked Huzooraa if we could broadcast Fiqhi Masail live. Ever since then, this programme has been broadcast live every Ramadan and it all came about under Huzoor’s supervision.

Every programme has a life expectancy.

After a few years, it was felt that the same questions were being repeated. When the challenge was relayed to Huzooraa, it was given a broader scope and the programme was named Deeni-o-Fiqhi Masail, with the expectation that people would ask questions of general nature as far as Islam is concerned.

The programme has since been serving this

broadened purpose. In the new format of the programme, Dawood Abid Sahib, Mansoor Zia Sahib and Intisar Ahmad Nazar Sahib from Rabwah were included.

So in 2010, this programme began and became fully established. It would be recorded regularly and broadcast every Wednesday.

Up until this point, all the programmes that have been discussed are in Urdu.

Whenever programmes have been discussed with Huzooraa, a particular concern is always noticed for the younger generation.

In that period, Umar Safir Sahib had been producing Real Talk, which addressed social issues and the answers given from the Ahmadiyya perspective. The peak of these programmes were the documentaries that were broadcast on Huzoor’s life in Ghana before Khilafat. This series was so well received that no comparison could have been drawn.

Then Faith Matters began, which answered theological questions and other related matters in English. This was also well received.

However, a programme in which the youth could ask questions in English and have them answered by their age fellows did not exist at the time. And this was the reason for starting Beacon of Truth.

A brief background of this has been given in a previous chapter. Nonetheless, this programme commenced under Huzoor’s supervision and students of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK would participate in it.

Huzooraa instructed for the programme to be in English so that the youth living in the West could have their issues addressed in a fashion they were more accustomed to.

When the first recording was presented to Huzooraa, he showed great love and liked the programme.

The youth who Huzooraa had once brought up as young children were now explaining to their age fellows the teachings of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. Students of Jamia also took it upon themselves to compile all the questions that were being received through email and providing it to the team.

Initially, the programme would be recorded in front of a studio audience and broadcast at a later date. According to Huzoor’s instruction, the audience was to consist of members of Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya UK. And thus, the programme proved extremely enlightening.

With Huzoor’s guidance, a different method was adopted in that the audience would be permitted to ask questions directly to the young students. I would hold a separate meeting with the audience and explain to them the topic of the show so

Deeni o Fiqhi Masail (previously known as Fiqhi Masail)

that they could think of questions on that basis. Those questions would not be relayed to the panellists so that they could answer them afresh. Thus, the programme had a natural touch to it and the viewers were kept engaged.

With God’s grace, I have always been certain that the sight of Khalifatul Masih is a miracle of its own; by merely setting his sight on someone, there is potential for the person’s spiritual impurities to be cleansed.

If a person wishes to see betterment in their work, then they should themselves endeavour to establish the relationship of their co-workers with Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa and remind them of its importance.

If this does not happen, then one’s colleagues remain deprived of its blessings and one’s work is affected as a result. Therefore, it is best to allow one’s co-workers to benefit from the blessings associated with this relationship through the nur of which we are led to the right path.

I asked Huzoor’s permission to bring the Beacon of Truth team for a mulaqat and Huzooraa graciously approved the request and the whole team had a mulaqat. These were young men who were seeking guidance directly from Huzooraa and at the same time, were experiencing the height of delight.

After this one mulaqat, the work of these young students was blessed tremendously.

At the time, they were all studying in Jamia Ahmadiyya UK, but never did they falter in their education.

It was this very programme that would later be broadcast as a live programme. The day before the first recording, the show’s presenter fell seriously ill; he suffered a stomach-ache and fever. The next day, everyone was to prepare for the live show, when this challenge fell upon us.

In the morning, prior to the live show, I had a mulaqat and until that point, the host’s health had not recovered. I mentioned to Huzooraa that the presenter was rather unwell and asked whether we could change the presenter.

Very lovingly, Huzooraa said, “Where will you find an alternate presenter at this stage?

There is no time for another presenter to prepare. Tell him to take this homeopathic medicine; he will feel better.”

Huzooraa also added that just as people panic before examinations and start experiencing poor health, he too felt the pressure in a similar way and it was not that big a deal.

I left the mulaqat and delivered the medicine to the host of the show along with Huzoor’s message. Both had such an effect on the presenter that by the evening, when the show was to go live, he was perfectly fine. Qaasid Muin Ahmad Sahib presented the show not just on that day, but for a long while after and was able to present it in a decent fashion.

In this manner, Beacon of Truth saw the love, affection and prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa right at its inception. This is something that always comes to mind before every recording and a heartfelt prayer is made at every such occasion.

Huzooraa is the leader of a community that is spread all over the world and his every second is precious due to his incredibly busy schedule, and yet, he takes out some much of his time for the sake of MTA programmes. ُ ُ ْ ْ ُ َ َ َ ْ ّ َ َّ ُ ّ ٰ َ ‫س‬ ِ ‫اللہم ایِد اِمامنا بِرو ِح القد‬

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

A shot of Beacon of Truth went it initially went live on MTA

Initially, this programme was presented

by Mansoor Clarke Sahib, but the responsibility was later assigned to Qaasid Muin Sahib, after which Raza Ahmad Sahib, then Ataul Fatir Tahir Sahib, Daniyal Kahlon Sahib and other presenters appeared on Beacon of Truth.

After Rah-e-Huda had seen a few years pass, one day, Huzooraa said, “Why don’t you go and present Rah-e-Huda from where rahe-huda [the path of true guidance] actually started? Go to Qadian and host the show from there.”

I conveyed this instruction to Fateh Ahmad Dahri Sahib, Wakil-e-Tamil-oTanfidh for India, Nepal and Bhutan. (At the time, this department did not exist and was known as India Desk and Fateh Sahib was its director.) Preparations for the programme were underway in Qadian, while on this side, the visa process commenced.

I am reminded of my association with Pakistan every so often; however, never more so than when I had to fill out the visa form for India and throughout the whole visa acquisition process.

This process was gruelling and extremely long, but preparations for the programme were already complete in Qadian. The preparation was completed swiftly under the supervision of Fateh Sahib by MTA Qadian Studios. The show was to be broadcast live via web stream. So Huzooraa instructed that the programme be started immediately.

The programme saw a historic moment in that Rah-e-Huda started being relayed live from the birthplace and village of the Promised Messiahas. K Tariq Sahib was assigned the responsibility of presenting the show and scholars from Qadian would be present in the show and still are to this day. In this way, a new batch of scholars became familiar faces on the MTA screen.

The potential of the scholars belonging to Qadian became apparent to MTA viewers and the show reached new levels.

Initially, four programmes would be broadcast from Qadian and six from London, but this changed to six from London and six from Qadian, after which the routine became eight from there and four from London and has since seen various stages of evolution.

From London, I would host Rah-e-Huda, after which Raja Burhan Ahmad Sahib, then Hafiz Muhammad Zafrullah Sahib, Salman Qamar Sahib, Zafir Mahmood Malik Sahib and Ayyaz Mahmood Khan Sahib presented the show. There have been different presenters since.

Something I find extraordinary is that MTA studios had been set up at the time in many parts of the developed world, for example, the United States, Australia and Canada. But observe the wonders of Huzoor’saa instruction that other than

London, at the time, no part of the world was broadcasting programmes live other than Qadian.

This programme is broadcast weekly via web stream from Qadian and its signal is received here in London and sent via satellite throughout the world. Despite being aired via web stream, the quality of the video is excellent and is not really different from television broadcast quality.

It is my faith and belief that signals of this programme being relayed live from the blessed village of the Promised Messiahas is a means of blessings for MTA’s transmission.

How could it not be?

In the words of Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahibara, this is the land that the blessed footsteps of the Promised Messiahas made sacred, the security and safeguarding of which even the angels take pride in.

Those who appear on the screen and those who are behind the scenes in making this programme possible from Qadian are assigned the responsibility of securing “AlDar” (the home of the Promised Messiahas).

Rah-e-Huda, under Huzoor’s instruction, commenced from Qadian, which is the nucleus of the Ahmadiyya Community. Through the blessings of this instruction, the aroma of Qadian is spread throughout the world via MTA. Rah-e-Huda would eventually go on to be regularly broadcast from Germany also.

There are many other programmes as well. The readers of these words are also viewers of MTA. I will only say this, that every positive element associated with the programmes spread over the MTA canvas is a result of the guidance given by Huzooraa.

Whatever you may dislike is due to our shortcomings and with this in mind, I wish to acknowledge our shortcomings and seek your forgiveness and request your prayers.

As the subject is already under discussion, I shall go ahead and mention a few other faith-inspiring aspects of MTA programmes that may be of benefit to the readers.

Huzooraa is always conscious of the content being relayed on MTA, but simultaneously, he reminds us that the people appearing on MTA are representatives of the Jamaat and therefore, their attire and appearance should be according to this standard.

Shahzad Ahmad Sahib, who is now a missionary and serving in The Review of Religions, had a family mulaqat with Huzooraa. A few days earlier, he had appeared on MTA whilst on Beacon of Truth. He is usually well dressed, but in the mulaqat, Huzooraa said to him that Beacon of Truth was on the television and he had a chance to watch a few moments of the programme, when he noticed that he was wearing a collarless shirt. Huzooraa said

that although he had a blazer on top, but a person appears informal without a collared shirt underneath. He then instructed that even if a tie is not worn, one should at least wear a collared shirt and if not wearing a tie and wearing a collared shirt, then one’s chest hairs should also not be visible.

When he saw us next, he informed us of Huzoor’s instruction and we conveyed it to all participants of the show; in fact, we made this a policy for all programmes of MTA, that one must wear a tie with a shirt, or have on a collared shirt.

Mubashar Ahmad Kahlon Sahib is the mufti of the Jamaat, but one can probably not assume from the simplicity of his attire that he is such a stalwart scholar. There is no pretention in his attire, nor in his speech. He has a unique style of speaking; he ends his talks with an abrupt end and without any of the customary conclusions, reminding one of Faiz’s stanza: ‫وجرےک وت وکہِ رگاں ےھت مہ‬ ُ “We halt like mighty mountains.”

Once, when he was in London, he came as a guest in the Rah-e-Huda studio with all his simplicity. He had on a flowery, yet simple sweater above his shalwar qameez.

When he appeared on the programme the following week, he took off that sweater and set it aside. I did not consider it appropriate to ask why he did this. He himself began explaining that a few days after the previous programme, he had a aa remarked: mulaqat wherein ‫ت‬ ‫ � ی� ٹ‬Huzoor ‫یٹ‬ ‫�پ‬ ُ � ‫ب‬ ‫وس� اپ ےک ھے یس‬ ‫� ڑبا ُھل دار ر‬ “You were wearing a rather flowery sweater!”

He then added that although Huzooraa did not object to it, but perhaps he indicated that the sweater was not appropriate for the programme.

May Allah grant him a long and healthy life. From such elders, we learn lessons from their words and actions that an indication

by Khalifatul Masih should not be deemed negligible. Every gesture is worthy of being obeyed. If there is not an instruction in an indication, even then, one should reflect on the possible instructions and try to act on them.

Rah-e-Huda is broadcast on Saturday evenings. One Saturday morning, whilst trimming my beard, I pressed on the machine a bit harder than usual and the comb went down a few numbers. When I looked, I found that the comb was on the very first number of the machine and the chin area of my beard had pretty much vanished. It was a horrible accident! I didn’t know what to do. Sometimes I would blame the machine, while at the same time lamenting my own mistake. It would have been highly inappropriate for me to appear on the show with those long sideburns.

Therefore, I decided the best thing to do following this accident would be to trim the rest of my beard the same size.

The issue now was that my beard length was incredibly small and my moustache was all too noticeable.

The next morning, I went for a mulaqat.

Huzooraa very lovingly remarked, “I saw a bit of the programme and also noticed that you had a bit of an accident with your trimmer.” Utterly embarrassed, I recounted the entire event. Huzooraa kept smiling, but I felt all too ashamed that this was the first thing Huzooraa noticed. This was not an ordinary thing; it was something significant.

The appearance of everyone who appears on MTA should be to a befitting standard.

Although my beard had not completely vanished, the difference would have startled all viewers.

Once, I received a research assignment from Huzooraa. Allah helped me extraordinarily out of His sheer grace. The day after receiving the instruction, I set out and after only a few hours of searching, was able to acquire what I was looking for.

From the library, where I was at the time, I called the private secretary and requested him to ask whether Huzooraa desired for me to come in the evening and present my research. Huzooraa graciously accepted and instructed for me to come after the last family mulaqat that evening.

Maghrib azan was being called when I entered Huzoor’s office. Huzooraa was about to leave his seat. Noticing the papers in my hand, Huzooraa asked, “What have you brought?” and called me over to his seat.

I stood beside Huzooraa and showed him what I had found, whilst Huzooraa listened.

Huzooraa said some words of encouragement having heard everything and then, upon noticing my shoes, smiled.

I became a bit cautious, when Huzooraa asked, “Where did you get these shoes from?” I answered the question. The shoes were simple, yet their design was somewhat unconventional.

Huzooraa then asked, “You don’t wear these shoes on the show, do you?”

I replied in the negative.

After that, Huzooraa said something and then got up to leave. At the same time, Huzooraa would notice my startled state and smile, then laugh.

Even after I had left, I would enjoy this moment when Huzooraa noticed something so minute. I could not explain that I would never even have come to meet Huzooraa with those shoes on had I not been travelling on trains and buses that day, but why would I have said this? Allah the Almighty created another lesson from Huzooraa for me to learn from and convey to my colleagues, that one should pay attention to those details on programmes that are otherwise ignored.

Huzooraa is aware of the psychology of not just those who appear on MTA, but all viewers of MTA. I had once studied in psychology that when established companies interview potential candidates for employment, they always have a psychologist present. The psychologist invites an employee in and asks them to walk to the interview room.

As the candidate walks to the room, the psychologist walks behind them; this is to observe whether the candidate has made their hair presentable from only the front, or the back as well; whether they cleaned their shoes from the back as well as the front. This determines whether the person only works superficially or whether they have a depth in their work.

Our dear Imamaa has always borne in mind these factors so that it doesn’t have a negative impact whatsoever on the viewers.

These are just some of the serialised programmes that have received Huzoor’s attention and minute and careful instructions. How Huzooraa has provided immense guidance with regard to other programmes will insha-Allah be discussed later.

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

8

Responding to Allegations

Who was behind the Arabic works of the as Promised Messiah ?

Part III (Khutba Ilhamiyah [the Revealed Sermon]) the power to capture the image of his manner and speech in words. There was an electrifying effect in his words that was cleaning the filthy evils of man’s nature.

“It seemed from his appearance and accent that that person was not present in the world at that time and his tongue was not in his control. The half-open eyes were telling that his condition was close to unconsciousness. The Promised Messiahas had stood up to speak a few Arabic phrases as per the Divine command, but he delivered a two hour comprehensive and eloquent sermon, which was full of wisdom and divine insight and a curative prescription for self-reformation and spiritual elevation. The divine secrets of wisdom that were explained in that sermon were such that by God, nobody was ever acquainted with them in the past and had never seen anyone narrate them. The Promised Messiahas also instructed during the sermon to ‘write them down now for these words may be missed.’ Ultimately, this great sign was fulfilled according to the promise of God Almighty.

The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, was granted various signs and miracles by Allah the Almighty to establish his truthfulness and silence his opponents. The divine sign of Khutba Ilhamiyah [the Revealed Sermon] was also given to the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. It is a unique and extraordinary sign, wherein God Almighty caused a profound speech in Arabic to extemporaneously flow from the mouth of His Messiah.

The opponents say that Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin, Khalifatul Masih Ira wrote the Arabic books of the Promised Messiahas. However, if they had only reflected upon the details of the event of Khutba Ilhamiyah, they would have easily understood that it is not just an ordinary incident, but a proof that if anyone helped the Promised Messiahas in Arabic works, it was the Supreme Being of Allah the Almighty.

After the Eid-ul-Adha prayes on 11 April 1900, the Promised Messiahas delivered an extempore sermon in very articulate and expressive Arabic, known as Khutba Ilhamiyah. This sermon is recorded in the first chapter of the Promised Messiah’sas book, Khutba َ Ilhamiyah, ّ َ ّٰ َ َ which begins with the words ‫یا‬ ْ‫ک ُروا‬ of God! Reflect] ِ ‫[ ِعباد الل ِہ ف‬O servants َ ْ َ ُ ُ and ends with ‫[ َو َس ْوف ی ُ َن ِّبئھ ْم خ ِبیر‬And He Who is All-Aware of their situation will soon let them know]. This sermon starts from the first page of the first edition and ends on page 38 and then the second chapter] begins.

The very first report of Khutba Ilhamiyah that was published in Al Hakam is as follows: “Manifestation of a great sign “After the Promised Messiahas, complying with the request of Maulana Maulvi Abdul Karim Sahib Sialkoti, completed his speech on the subject of mutual harmony and brotherhood, Huzooras expressed his intention to deliver a sermon in Arabic according to the revelation and direction of Allah the Almighty.

“What is in the sermon?

“A separate article is needed to explain this [question]. When the Arabic sermon will be printed and published, everyone will find out what is in it. In short, we want to express that first of all, the real purpose of sacrifice is explained in this Arabic sermon. Then, the question as to who is khalifatullah [successor of Allah] is discussed. Lastly, [the Promised Messiahas] has mentioned his claim and status and substantiated itmam-e-hujjat [completion of proof] against the opponents.

“Since this sermon is one of the great signs of Allah and a matchless sign that was fulfilled not only before our eyes, but in front of a large gathering of people, we swear by God Almighty that this great sign was indeed a miracle. The Promised Messiahas rose to deliver the Arabic

sermon and ordered Hazrat Maulana Maulvi Abdul Karim Sahib and Hazrat Maulana Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib to come closer and write this sermon. When both of them were ready, he started the Arabic sermon with the words ‘Ya ibaadallah’ [O servants of God]. Our pen does not have

“Maulvi Abdul Karim presents the translation “When the Promised Messiahas completed the sermon and sat down, Hazrat Maulana Maulvi Abdul Karim Sahib stood up to present the [Urdu] translation upon the request of the majority. Before Maulana Sahib could start the translation, the Promised Messiahas said, ‘This sermon was marked as the sign of fulfilment of

9

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM the prayers that I had made on the day of Arafah [ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah] and on the night of Eid, that if this sermon was delivered extempore in Arabic, all those prayers would be accepted. Alhamdolillah, all those prayers were accepted in accordance with the promise of Allah.’

“The excellence and expressiveness with which Hazrat Maulana Maulvi Abdul Karim Sahib translated it was a sign in itself. It is not an easy feat to translate a subject and narrate it from another language into one’s own language and especially bearing in mind that it is not easy to translate divine pearls of wisdom. However, the clarity with which Maulvi Sahib carried out the translation, it seemed as though he was speaking with the support of Ruhul Qudus [Gabriel].

Word to word, idiomatic, concise and consistent; in fact, all the qualities that a translation should have, were present in it.

“Sajda-e-Shukr Mubarak “While Hazrat Maulana Sahib was reading out the translation, the Promised Messiahas fell into prostration in a fervent expression of gratitude to God and the entire gathering also fell into prostration with him. Rising from the prostration, the Promised Messiah said, ‘I have just seen [in a vision] in red letters the word: ‫مبارک‬ [felicitation]. This means that the address has found acceptance.’ It is like a sign of acceptance.

“Thereafter, Maulana Sahib completed the translation and when he finished, it was time for Zuhr prayer. Thus, the Zuhr and Asr prayers were performed together.

“We are grateful to God Almighty that He gave us so much respite that we witnessed a glorious sign like the Holy Quran with our very own eyes. Now, we pray to God that He may cause us to die and depart this life while we follow that Imam, on whom His divine succour is showering down. May [Allah] grant this world the eyes to recognise the [truth] and the heart to understand. Amin.” (Al Hakam, 1 May 1900, pp. 5-6) Around 200 people were present at this historical Eid sermon. If they had the slightest reservation against Khutba Ilhamiyah or they knew that it did not happen, they would have immediately abandoned the Ahmadiyya Jamaat after reading the above mentioned report.

On the contrary, people believed and recognised this sermon as a sign of God. Below we present some views and thoughts of the people who witnessed this impromptu Arabic sermon: Hazrat Syed Mahmood Alamra states: “Hazrat Maulvi Nuruddin Sahibra used to say that the Promised Messiahas delivered the Eid-ul-Adha sermon in Arabic, [which is stated at the beginning of the book, Khutba Ilhamiyah]. Later, he was asked as to what he experienced; he said, ‘The angels brought plaques having words written on them in bold letters. I would see and read them out. A plaque would appear and disappear after I had finish narrating it. Then, the next plaque would appear and so the series of plaques

continued. When the scriber would ask [about a word], the disappeared plaque would come back and I would tell him after seeing it.” (Register Riwayat [unpublished], Reg. 4, p. 38, Riwayat Hazrat Syed Mahmood Alam Sahibra) Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira said: “My brother, Hafiz Abdul Ali Sahib, asked Hazrat [Hakim] Maulvi [Nuruddin] Sahibra about this [revealed sermon]. Maulvi Sahibra replied, ‘I know that it is beyond the power of the Promised Messiahas.’ His answer meant that it was the word of God and not of the Promised Messiahas.” (Register Riwayat [unpublished], Reg. 10, pp. 303-304, Hazrat Maulvi Sher Ali Sahibra) Hazrat Maulvi Abdullahra writes: “Syed Abdul Hayy Arab Sahibra, who came from Arabia and stayed in Qadian for many days for the purpose of research and later took Bai‘at of the Promised Messiahas, described the incident of his Bai‘at to this humble one.

“He said, ‘After reading the expressive and eloquent books of the Promised Messiahas, I was convinced in my heart that no one can write such words without the support of God. However, I was not certain that those works were of the Promised Messiahas, even though Hazrat Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib and other scholars used to assure me of this and testify … I continued to stay in Qadian to examine this matter, so that I too could see for myself any incident of divine succour.

Thus, the time of the revelation of Khutba Ilhamiyah came and I witnessed with my own eyes the revelation of this prophetic and miraculous sermon. I heard with my own ears that without the help of any other person, this man was delivering such a powerful and moving sermon before the entire gathering in broad daylight. Hence, after listening to this sermon, I took Bai‘at with full conviction of heart.’” (Ashab-eAhmad, Vol. 7, p. 188) Hazrat Munshi Zafar Ahmadra of Kapurthala, narrates: “The Promised Messiahas stood in Masjid Aqsa on the day of Eid-ul-Adha and said, ‘I would like to present a few words of revelation in Arabic as a sermon.

Both Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib and Maulvi Abdul Karim Sahib should write the words down with perfect accuracy.’ Thereafter, he began to deliver the sermon in Arabic.

He was saying words so quickly that it was becoming difficult for the [scribes’] pen to maintain a pace with what was being uttered. We witnessed the special effect of this sermon that all the listeners were in a state of charisma and the sermon was being understood. Every single person was influenced by it.” (Siratul-Mahdi, Vol. 2, pp. 117-118) Hence, it is clear from the details of Khutba Ilhamiyah that divine succour and the hand of Allah the Almighty was continuously at work behind the Arabic writings and words of the Promised Messiahas. The opponents are openly invited to carry out research on the incident of Khutba Ilhamiyah so that they may recognise this sign of God Almighty and accept the Messiah of the age.

Religious Founders Day, South Africa Kamaal Allom South Africa Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya South Africa commemorated its annual Religious Founders Day on 13 September 2020 via the Zoom online platform. The theme of the event was the Covid-19 pandemic as an act of God, from a religious perspective.

The event brought together various religious denominations and representatives from the Hindu, Jewish, Christian and Islamic faiths.

The gathering commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the welcome address by the chairperson, the regional president of the Western Cape Jamaat.

The opening address was delivered by the National President of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya South Africa, Mansoor Ahmad Zaid Sahib, who provided an insightful commentary on the verses recited in relation to the theme and emphasised the positive learnings.

The second speech was delivered by Mr Pravesh Gangaram Hurdeen Singh, President of World Hindu Foundation South Africa, in which he stated that the pandemic has imprinted the opportunity to introspect and reflect on an important matter of living in harmony with all around you, with nature and most importantly with oneself.

The third speech was delivered by Sister Rachael Sara Lay, Leadership of Temple Israel, Progressive Jewish Community in Cape Town spoke about the Jewish message of finding the goodness in people and the wonderful practice of righteousness and acts of kindness, which can be achieved by everyone coming together to heal the world in their own unique way.

The fourth speech was delivered by Pastor Patrick Paulse, Principal of St Joseph’s RC Special school in Montana.

Spiritual Care Coordinator of St Luke’s Combined Hospices spoke strongly about compassion and empathy.

The fifth speech was Jamaat-eAhmadiyya’s view on the theme and it was delivered by Alhaj Ahmad Suleman Anderson Sahib, Vice President of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Ghana. He spoke in depth about filling our houses with the remembrance of Allah the Almighty and the power of prayer. He emphasised the importance of cleanliness and adherence

to Covid-19 protocols in avoiding the spread of the virus and explained the hadith of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, about what cautions to take when one faces a pandemic.

The sixth speech was delivered by Sister Kirtanya Lutchminarayan of the Hindu community, in which she emphasised the beautiful virtues of purity of mind and thought and that the purpose of religion is to unite. The speaker touched on our responsibilities towards animals and what we should and should not be eating and to observe respect of the life that we are consuming.

The seventh speech was delivered

by Dr Graham Thomas of the Quaker community, who spoke about the beliefs of the Quaker community, how it began in similar circumstances such as we are experiencing today and how these circumstances made people question Christian beliefs about caring for humanity, especially at times of great distress.

The closing remarks were delivered by Rev Berry Behr, Director of Cape Town Interfaith Initiative CTII. Each speaker was given 8-10 minutes to speak. The speeches were informative, inspiring and well received by everyone present.

At the end of these speeches, a slot was scheduled for an online Zoom poll, with the results showing an appreciation of the event and welcomed future collaborative efforts.

A total of 63 people attended and the event concluded with the silent prayer.

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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10 habits that hinder your relationship with Allah Frasat Ahmad Missionary, USA

Do you feel that Allah is distant from you; that your prayers aren’t being answered? Perhaps it is because you are doing something that is utterly loathsome in Allah’s eyes that is creating a barrier between you and Allah.

If so, now is the time to locate those weaknesses and shortcomings that may be obstacles in your path to obtaining His love.

Fortunately, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra has pinpointed these weaknesses for us and explained why Allah hates them so much.

In his own words, here are ten habits that hinder your relationship with Allah.

(Taken from Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra speech, entitled Ta‘alluq billah, delivered on 28 December 1952 at Jalsa Salana Rabwah).

1. Arrogance “Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: ُ َ ۡ َ َ ۡ َ ُّ ُ َ َ ّٰ َّ ‫ان ُمخ َتالًا فخوۡ َرا‬ ‫ِان اللہ لا ی ِحب من ک‬ “‘Surely, Allah loves not the proud and the boastful.’ (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.37) “… Proud is he who considers himself so lofty as to think he is safe from all affliction and harm … If one embraces arrogance in his heart and he then remembers Allah’s greatness, then can he remain arrogant thereafter? Can one truly hold his head high while standing before a king? Even a soldier stands with such civility and respect before an ordinary police superintendent that it seems as if he has no tongue in his mouth. Thus, how can one love Allah if he does not hold any regard for Allah’s greatness? … Hence, Allah the Almighty does not love the one who is proud, nor

can such a person love Allah the Almighty.

(Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 175) 2. Boastfulness “Boastful is the one who believes that he bears such virtues that others do not have and then taunts others berating them of their lack of the intrinsic worth he believes he possesses.

“Boastfulness results in man rejecting and denying the favours that Allah has conferred upon him, as he claims that that his achievements are due to his own personal effort and merit. Whosoever actually believes this denies Allah’s Beauty and Allah the Almighty does not love such a person.” (Ibid., p. 176) 3. Transgression Allah the Almighty also does not like the one who has the habit of exceeding the limits in his acts. He states:ٰ ّ َ ۡ ُ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ لَا یُ ِح ّب ال ُم ۡع َت ِدیۡ َن‬ “‘Surely, Allah loves not the transgressors.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.191) “… Often times, when someone commits a mistake, then they are being scolded, fined or made to sit in the mosque to perform the remembrance of Allah the Almighty, as a penalty. But those who do not have the habit of remaining within their limits are not satisfied with this. They ask, ‘What kind of punishment is this to pay a fine of 4 annas?’ Their purpose is to make us place a saw at their head, burn their bones and crush them upon a slab and then throw their ashes into filth and waste and place a marker on their grave, abusing them and their forefathers. Still, they do not stop here. When they reach the Hereafter, Allah should put them into hellfire and punish

him in such a way that has never been given to anyone. Even though Allah the Almighty is extremely Merciful and Noble, He does not love those who transgress, nor can the transgressor love Allah the Almighty.”

(Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 176-177) 4. Dishonesty “The one who is perfidious, meaning that they have perfidiousness in their nature, cannot be loved by Allah the Almighty. He states: َ ً َ َ َ ۡ َ ُّ ُ َ َ ّٰ َّ ‫ان خ ّوَانا اث ِۡی ًما‬ ‫ِان اللہ لا ی ِحب من ک‬ “‘Surely, Allah loves not one who is perfidious and a great sinner.’ (Surah alNisa, Ch.4: V.108) “… Even the slightest iota of perfidiousness cannot be tolerated when it comes to love. The one who is extremely perfidious is incapable of loving someone because they cannot maintain relationships.

To believe that such a person can love Allah the Almighty or that Allah can love them is completely irrational.” (Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 177) 5. Drowning in sin “In the same manner, one who is a sinner, meaning that they completely incline towards sin, cannot be loved by Allah the Almighty. The state of such a sinner is akin to a big lawbreaker. The one who has a habit of breaking the laws of this world will inevitably break the laws of Allah the Almighty in the same manner …

Whosoever thinks, ‘What hindrance lies in my breaking this law or that law?’ will also proceed to break the laws of Allah the Almighty and will remain bereft of obeying them.” (Ibid.)

6. Taking delight in temporary pleasures “The one who exults, meaning that the one who feels complete delight in temporary pleasures also cannot be loved by Allah the Almighty. Allah states: ٰ ّ َ ۡ َۡ ُ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ لَا یُ ِح ّب الف ِر ِحی َن‬ “‘Surely, Allah loves not those who exult.’ (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.77) “Allah the Almighty can never manifest His love upon the one who rejoices in small and petty matters … It is, of course, true that even small successes are due to Allah’s grace and it is also true that we have been taught to thank Allah for every joy and favour.

But why should man become so lethargic and content at such small successes that his heart becomes undesirous of achieving great achievements? He should strive to shatter the stars in the sky. He should make his goals ever so lofty, so much so that his objectives look small to him and he realises that he needs to fly more higher … But one who exults over small triumphs can never declare the lofty objectives as his goal.

There is no doubt that whenever Allah the Almighty confers His Favour upon a believer, the believer will declare: ّٰ َْ ‫ال َح ْم ُدل ِل ِہ‬ [Meaning ‘All praise belongs to Allah’] “But he also states that for this Favour: ّٰ َْ ‫ال َح ْم ُدل ِل ِہ‬ [Meaning ‘All praise belongs to Allah’] “‘But my destination still lies quite far away.’ Then the believer is conferred another divine favour and again states: ّٰ َْ ‫ال َح ْم ُدل ِل ِہ‬ [Meaning that ‘All praise belongs to Allah’] “‘I thank You, O Allah, for this Favour You have conferred upon me, but I want to attain You. These small matters are not my destination’. In this way, the believer progresses forward step by step and ultimately, he attains Allah the Almighty.”

(Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 180-181) 7. Spreading disorder Allah the Almighty states: ٰ ۡ ۡ ُ ّ َ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ لَا یُ ِح ّب ال ُمف ِس ِدیۡ َن‬ “‘Verily Allah loves not those who make mischief.’ (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.78) “The truth is that Allah the Almighty is the Creator and Sustainer of all creation.

How can the Creator and Sustainer of His creation love the one who attempts to make mischief and disorder amongst His creation? A mother can never love anyone who hates her child. Since all of creation belongs to Allah the Almighty, then it is quite apparent that Allah the Almighty can never love anyone who creates mischief and incites conflict amongst the people.”

(Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 181-182) 8. Ungratefulness “The one who is ungrateful cannot love Allah the Almighty, nor can Allah the Almighty love him, for beneficence is a means of love. If one is not grateful, it means that they are unable to see beneficence.

One who is unable to see beneficence is unable to love Allah the Almighty because the foremost door to Allah’s love is His beneficence. He states:

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM َُ َ ُ ُ ّٰ َ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ لَا یُ ِح ّب ک َّل خ ّوَ ٍان کفوۡ ٍر‬ [Meaning that, Surely, Allah loves not anyone who is perfidious or ungrateful.’

(Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.39)] “Perfidious has been mentioned above.

Ungrateful is the one who witnesses Allah’s favour and still does not inculcate gratefulness within themselves, as if the recognition of beneficence does not exist within them. And what can one attain who does not behold Allah’s beneficence and states, ‘What have I received?’ Even if Allah the Almighty grants His love to him, this person will state, ‘I have not been given anything.’ In another place in the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty states: ُ َّ َ ُ َ َ ‫ل َ ِئ ۡن شک ۡرت ۡم لَازِیۡ َدنک ۡم‬ [Meaning, ‘If you are grateful, I will, surely, bestow more favours on you.’ (Surah Ibrahim, Ch.14: V.8)] “[In other words] ‘I will increase My favours upon you according to the extent of gratefulness you show and if you will show ungratefulness, I will decrease My favours upon you accordingly.” (Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 183) 9. Exceeding your bounds “Allah the Almighty declares: َّ ۡ ُ ۡ ‫ِان ٗہ لَا یُ ِح ّب ال ُم ۡس ِرفِی َن‬ “‘Surely, Allah loves not those who exceed the bounds.’ (Surah al-An‘am, Ch.6: V.142) “The one who exceeds the bounds prefers their own selves and the pleasures of his nafs above the troubles and comforts of others. Who would like the person who dislikes spending in the way of Allah’s servants and would rather spend uselessly on his own self?

“Thus, if we do not use our wealth, knowledge, respect and fame to help those people for whom Allah the Almighty grants us this wealth, knowledge, respect and fame and rather engrossed in the pleasures of our nafs alone, then what hope can we have that our Allah will love us?” (Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 183184) 10. Injustice “Allah the Almighty declares: ّٰ ۡ ّٰ ُ ‫َو الل ُہ لَا یُ ِح ّب الظ ِل ِمی َن‬ ‘And Allah loves not the unjust.’ (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.141) “Injustice and love cannot exist in unison. He who is unjust, loves his own self the most and he who loves his own self the most, cannot love others. Besides this, it is utterly impossible that one loves Allah the Almighty, while at the same time be unjust to Allah’s servants. One must also remember that love is an emotion related to gentleness, while injustice is an emotion related to harshness. Love requires one to sacrifice their own possessions, while injustice requires one to sacrifice the possessions of others. Hence, these are two contradictory emotions. Thus, the one who is unjust can neither love Allah the Almighty, nor can Allah the Almighty love them.” (Ta‘alluq Billah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 184-185)

Canadian Atfal meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih in virtual mulaqat Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the first ever Canadian mayar-e-kabir Atfal virtual class with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was held on 15 August 2020. 224 Atfal gathered in Aiwan-e-Tahir, located in Baitul-Islam mosque complex, Toronto. They met virtually with Huzooraa in his office at Islamabad, Tilford UK. The programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Hafiz Rehan Cheema Sahib, with English translation by Zafar Anjum Sahib. Rayyan Mamoon Sahib recited a poem from Durr-e-Sameen.

Mohtamim Atfal Canada, Ayaz Ahmad Warraich Sahib presented an activity report of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada. Based on the report presented, Huzooraa asked questions about the reason of improved activities of Atfal in June. These included increase in number of Atfal offering daily prayers regularly, reciting Holy Quran on daily basis, offering Friday prayers, and listening to Friday sermon. Furthermore, Huzooraa enquired why numbers decrease in July.

Ayaz Sahib answered that during Covid-19, greater emphasis was placed on daily classes. Reminders were sent more frequently. For this reason, Nazimeen and everyone else were more in touch with Atfal. Huzooraa advised that once maximum attendance is achieved, it should be maintained. We cannot see real progress if we go up and down and continue this cycle.

Next, a question and answer session was held. Huzooraa answered questions on a variety of topics. Huzooraa also advised Atfal to do more physical activities, avoid obesity and the use of video games. One tifl requested Huzooraa to visit Canada after

Covid-19 is over. Huzooraa replied to pray that may Allah the Almighty take away this virus and then we can look into it.

At the end, Huzooraa asked Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada, Zubair Afzal Sahib, for his comments.

Sadr Sahib thanked Huzooraa for granting the opportunity for this virtual meeting and requested him to visit Canada after Covid-19. Huzooraa inquired about the weather and mentioned it is hot in the UK as well, around 33 degrees Celsius.

Huzooraa asked Sadr Sahib, “Is everyone’s work going well?” Sadr Sahib replied that there has been regular contact with the majority of Khuddam. Wherever, due to Covid-19, anyone is facing difficulties, the majlis is trying its very best to help them, he explained.

Huzooraa said Allah Hafiz [may Allah be your Protector] and the programme concluded.

Below is the feedback received on the programme:

“I thought it was incredible that …

Huzooraa took the time out to address the Atfal and even though Huzooraa wasn’t there in person, you could still feel that you are talking to the imam of the age. It was a very good learning experience. Many other Atfal were also saying how lucky we were that we had the opportunity to be in the presence of Huzooraa. I was lucky to get a chance to talk to Huzooraa and ask him a question. I was really excited and fortunate to get the chance to talk to Huzooraa”, said Khan Intsar Nusrullah.

“It feels like a dream come true. My son wasn’t going on the UK trip this year but because of that class, he got a chance to talk and be in the presence of our beloved Imamaa, alhamdolillah”, said Ijaz Khan Sahib and Amatul Quddus Sahiba.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to follow the guidance of Huzooraa in letter and spirit. Amin.

Delegation of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger visits interior minister Muhammad Jamal Niger Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger has had considerable success in spreading the message of the Promised Messiahas to the corners of the Earth in the recent past.

Jamaat Niger has established a healthy relationship with the minister of communications of Niger and he is proving to be a great helping hand and associate to the Jamaat in establishing contacts with other important higher authorities. In this regard, he arranged a meeting between Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya’s delegation and the interior minister.

On 8 September 2020, the delegation of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya met with the Interior Minister of Niger, Mr Alkache Alhada, in his office.

The delegation included Amir Jamaat Niger, Asad Majeeb Sahib and a missionary, Adeel Ahmed Sahib.

During the meeting, the interior minister was briefed on the detailed introduction of the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper.

Moreover, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger’s efforts for the establishment of peace were also highlighted.

Amir Jamaat Niger presented him the Holy Quran with French translation, The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam and World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace for better comprehension of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya and its teachings.

“I am very happy to hear that an Islamic community speaks of ‘Love for all, hatred for none’, otherwise the children of my family always ask me this question, ‘Why, in Islam, is there only talk of war and hatred?’

So, your message full of love and peace is very welcome and I am happy that Jamaate-Ahmadiyya is not only bearing the slogan, but practically working on it also”, said

Niger’s interior minister.

Recently, some terrorists in Niger attacked and killed French tourists, due to which instability towards foreigners erupted in the country, so the current security situation of the country and security measures during the travel of the Jamaat’s delegation were also discussed.

This meeting proved to be very fruitful.

Alhamdolillah

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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New Zealand: Divine help in preaching Islam Mustenser Qamar Missionary, New Zealand

Allah the Almighty promised that He Himself would cause the message of the Promised Messiahas to reach the corners of the earth. In the field of tabligh, we often experience this divine hand at work in miraculous and unexpected ways.

15 March 2020 marked the first anniversary of the terrorist attack on two mosques in New Zealand’s city of Christchurch.

Different organisations had made an array of programmes to commemorate this occasion, including a national remembrance service in Christchurch.

We decided that this would be a suitable opportunity to not only visit Christchurch and the two mosques, but also to spread the beautiful and pristine message of Islam to the public in a number of cities and small towns across the South Island of New Zealand in the run up to this commemoration.

A tabligh trip was organised for this very purpose, which consisted of myself, another missionary, Sabahuzafar Sahib and four Khuddam: Mirza Sarfraz Ahmad Sahib, Umair Tauseef Sahib, Hamza Shehzad Sahib and Haris Malhi Sahib.

It is worth noting that all four of the Khuddam joining us were forced to leave Pakistan due to the persecution and limitations of freedom of speech and expression faced by Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

Now, enjoying the freedoms in this country, each one of them was eager and passionate to spread the message of true Islam in this country.

During this trip, we wished to engage with members of the public in open and candid discussions about Islam through our “Coffee, Cake and True Islam” and “Meet a Muslim” initiatives.

Therefore, in preparation for this, on social media, we advertised multiple public sessions at cafés in different towns and cities on our way to and from Christchurch.

Whilst two of us sat at the cafés to meet and talk to people, the rest of the Khuddam would be out on nearby streets handing out leaflets, holding up a whiteboard with our message written on it and encouraging more people to join us for a hot beverage and a discussion.

Allah the Almighty blessed our meagre

efforts and following an initial press release before our trip, an article was published in the largest daily newspaper of the South Island, The Press, which has an estimated 135,000 daily readership. This article was also uploaded on to the Stuff website, which has over two million visitors per month. Furthermore, an interview was also recorded for a radio broadcaster.

However, the most unexpected results and clear signs of divine blessings came in the first two “Meet a Muslim” sessions we had organised. In the city of Nelson, a journalist, who had seen our advertisement on social media, contacted us and joined our session. This resulted in a second article being published in the regional newspaper the Nelson Mail, which has an estimated 19,000 daily readership.

For the session on the second day in Blenheim, we only had one person whose attendance was confirmed through our online system. Whilst we were grateful for even having one person and having the opportunity to spread the true message of Islam to him, we were also naturally quite disheartened that we were unable to reach more people. However, the blessings of Allah also showed on this occasion and a journalist contacted us a few hours before, asking to attend. This led to the third article being published in the regional paper, Marlborough Express, estimated 13,000 daily readership.

Therefore, through the immense blessings of Allah the Almighty, though we were only able to meet a very limited number of people through these sessions, Allah the Almighty caused the message to reach hundreds of thousands and multiplied our meagre efforts manifold.

On arrival in Christchurch, we had multiple “Meet a Muslim” coffee sessions arranged and had some interest and questions which warranted individual meet ups too. However, these were the days when the global threat of Covid-19 was increasing.

Only a day before, we found out that the National Remembrance Service scheduled for 15 March 2020 was cancelled. Also, it so happened that one of our sessions, where we had multiple prior confirmations, ended up being the most worrisome. A few people messaged a short while before saying they were unable to attend. Furthermore, whilst we were waiting in the café, another few

informed us they cannot make it either.

Sabahuzafar Sahib and I sat at the café hoping and praying that someone would turn up so that our limited time did not go to waste. We were disheartened but decided to wait for the hour that we had allotted and see if anyone turned up.

During our time of contemplation and prayer, a lady sitting on a nearby table came to us (probably due to our appearance and the #MeetAMuslimNZ signs we had placed in front of us) and began to converse with us about Islam, citing an article she was reading in the newspaper. This gave us some hope that at least we were able to have a decent conversation with this well-educated lady.

However, little did we know that Allah the Almighty had much more in store.

As our time came to an end, both of us were discussing the reach of social media in spreading the message of the true Islam.

After the discussion, we decided it would be good if one of us tweeted about our sessions and tagged some journalists and newsoutlets in the tweet. Therefore, Sabahuzafar Sahib began writing a tweet. We also decided it would be a good idea to tag our location in the tweet.

Shortly after tweeting, Sabahuzafar Sahib went to freshen up before we would leave the café. Whilst sitting there myself and continuing to pray, one of the most well-renowned journalists of New Zealand, who we had incidentally just tagged in the Tweet, walked right past our table as though he was looking for someone or something. It seemed to me as though Allah the Almighty had sent him to meet us. After walking around the small café, he sat in the corner by himself and placed an order.

When Sabahuzafar Sahib returned, I told him that this was one of the journalists we just tagged in the Tweet. It seemed for certain that, if not the tweet, something compelled him to come to this very café just minutes after.

Therefore, as we picked up our things, we stopped in front of his table and introduced ourselves. He was extremely nice and listened eagerly as we explained our activities and initiatives. Later, I tweeted our picture with him and tagged him too.

He was extremely kind and he immediately re-tweeted Sabahuzafar Sahib’s tweet with a positive comment and shared it with his large social media following. Then shortly

after, he also re-tweeted my tweet, further increasing our reach.

It was astounding how, in a short space of time, Allah the Almighty changed our dismay into such a blessing. As we counted Allah’s favours, the next day, he also took screenshots of the tweets and shared them on his Instagram story and tagged us there too. From a meeting with no one, we ended up reaching hundreds of thousands alhamdolillah.

This trip was full of Allah’s special favours. I had contacted a YouTuber from the USA, who was visiting New Zealand for the anniversary of the attacks. His story was shared in the media extensively because he had previously been influenced by right-wing propaganda and had now completely had a turn around. He accepted my invitation to meet over a cup of coffee. I was interested in his story and that’s why I initially made contact. However, Allah the Almighty had other plans for us.

A few hours before our meeting, he asked me if it was okay for a documentary crew to join us. This ultimately led to us having an extended discussion on our paths and sharing our views in front of the camera. The documentary crew was also interested in some deeper aspects of our conversation and wanted us to continue.

After a couple of hours of discussion, we are hopeful that Allah will also bless this and whenever a documentary is made and aired, it will become a means of further spreading our message.

We experienced the innumerable blessings of Allah on this short visit. We were given respect by a mayor. We were welcomed and even given an extended and unexpected audience by an MP and his acquaintances. We were able to have many positive discussions with people, which led to Allah changing some people’s previously hostile perceptions on Islam. Even an instance of foul invective and opposition in the streets became a means of furthering the spread of our message.

Without a doubt, when one makes the slightest effort to spread the message of Allah, Allah the Almighty always shows His special support and we experience new ways in which Allah is fulfilling His promise of spreading the message Himself to the corners of the earth.

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Significance of religion in crisis M Adam Ahmad Al Hakam

In times of crisis or calamities, people use different means to lessen the effect or impact of the trauma to try and help them cope. One of the most widely recognised mechanisms that individuals utilise the world over in trying times is to turn towards religion.

Sociologists and researchers have conducted studies to comprehend the response of mankind in stressful times in various kinds of crises. They have found that religion is most commonly used to deal with unprecedented and uncertain cataclysmic situations. Religion and spirituality are the two terms that are frequently used in researches related to the said subject.

According to their definition, used in almost all studies, religion is a collection of morals, beliefs, practices and symbols that is almost always under the supervision and guidance of a central governing body or an institution; thus, religion is an organised and formal way of man’s communion with God Almighty.

Religions also emphasise the importance of following certain tenets that all adherents follow in the same way, so usually, practicing a religion will transcend racial and geographical divides. (https://au.reachout.com/articles/what-isspirituality) On the other hand, spirituality is thought of as more of a personal factor and private enterprise. It is an intrinsic relation that a person has with the Supreme Being from Whom they seek help or support in times of need and crisis. (www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705681/) Religion plays the most important role in coping with stressful circumstances. It allows a person to count on the support of their God as well as the central authority and other members of their congregation and this, coupled with their intrinsic spirituality, promotes resilience and allows for healing.

Studies have also shown that adherents of religion live longer than non-religious people. The reasons for their longevity include seeking spiritual support, forgiveness and affiliation with social organisation. (www.aau.edu/researchscholarship/featured-research-topics/ people-religious-affiliations-live-longerstudy-shows) When a person is going through a crisis – for example they are in quarantine or a lockdown, and they see that others are dying from an illness for which there is no cure – they may experience depression and suffer anxiety. It is in times like these that a person, who in other times may not have been an active practitioner or even spiritually inclined, will turn to religion

for guidance from the Almighty God and will seek emotional reassurance, trying to cultivate a close relationship with God and other fellow believers in order to alleviate the emotional strain and trauma of such a profound crisis.

Studies carried out by The Guardian in the UK have shown that in the ongoing lockdown and quarantine caused by the coronavirus, more and more people are turning towards religion.

Harriet Sherwood writes: “A quarter of adults in the UK have watched or listened to a religious service since the coronavirus lockdown began, and one in 20 have started praying during the crisis, according to a new survey.” (theguardian.com/world/2020/may/03/ british-public-turn-to-prayer-as-one-infour-tune-in-to-religious-services) When people turn to religion in flocks, they seek relief from emotional stress and guidance, so it is the duty of religion to provide them with solace and direction.

However, if we cast even a cursory glance at religions of the world, we see them lacking when it comes to providing emotional or mental relief to their people in crisis.

Explaining the purpose of religion, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, states: “The purpose of religion is that man should obtain deliverance from his passions and should develop personal love for God Almighty through certain faith in His existence and His perfect attributes.

Such love of God is the paradise, which will appear in diverse shapes in the Hereafter … Thus, the true purpose is to have full faith in Him. “Now the question is, which religion

and which book can fulfil this need. The Bible tells us that the door of communion with God is closed and that the ways of obtaining certainty are sealed. Whatever was to happen, happened in the past and there is nothing in the future … Of what use then is a religion that is dead? What benefit can we derive from a book that is dead? What grace can be bestowed by a god who is dead?” (Essence of Islam, Vol. 1, p. 4, [Chashma-e-Masihi, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, pp. 352-353]) Explaining the perfect religion that can provide complete satisfaction and spiritual support, the Promised Messiahas states: “If we look at world religions, we find that each one of them, with the exception of Islam, contains one defect or the other.

This is not because they were actually false from the beginning, but because, after the advent of Islam, God stopped supporting them and they became like a garden that has no gardener and no arrangement for its irrigation and management. As a result, flaws gradually crept into these religions …

“Thus these religions came to suffer from such ills, some of which are unspeakable and even repugnant to the purity of the human self. All these symptoms were conditions precedent to Islam. A reasonable person would admit that some time before the advent of Islam, all faiths had become corrupted and had lost spirituality. Thus, our Holy Prophetsa was the greatest reformer, who brought the lost truth back into the world.” (Lecture Sialkot, p. 1-5) The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat was established in light of the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa and promises of God Almighty by the Messiah of the age to console and guide the anxious and restless people of the time. The successors of the Promised Messiahas continue to provide the true teachings of Islam that are vital for the spiritual elevation and moral development of mankind.

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra states:

“All other religions claim that they help build a relationship between man and God, but Islam is superior to them because apart from its teachings, which instil love of God in mankind, it also announces that God shall begin to love you as well.” (The Review of Religions [Urdu], September 1920) It is our responsibility to spread the true teachings of Islam and rescue the people of the world from the pits of despair and depression. Calling our attention towards this obligation, the worldwide head of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, said: “In these circumstances, where we need to reform ourselves, we also need to effectively carry out tabligh [propagating the message of Islam]. We must, more than before, acquaint the world with Islam. Moreover, every Ahmadi should try and inform the world that if you desire salvation, then you must recognise your God Who has created you. If you desire a noble end, then recognise your God Who has created you; because the best end is the life in the Hereafter. Do not hold associates with Him and fulfil the right of His creation. So we must always make this effort; may Allah enable everyone to do so.

“Even the secular world is saying that these pandemics will continue to increase. For this reason, like I have said, for a noble end, it is essential that we also turn towards God Almighty and then tell the world that true end is the life in the Hereafter for which you must return to God.” (Friday Sermon, 20 March 2020) Hence, as the conditions and circumstances across the globe demonstrate, religion is very important in times of crisis, not just to alleviate physical, mental and emotional suffering in the moment, but as a way to live one’s life even in times of ease. Religion helps to lead mankind towards their Creator, Allah the Almighty, and ultimately guides them to achieve salvation and attain high levels of spirituality.

In times of utter desperation and helplessness – e.g. natural disasters and day to day challenges – man tends to cry out for an external form of help, whether it be in the form of God or otherwise

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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100 Years Ago...

Fruitful tabligh efforts and gifts for the servants of Prophet Ahmad Al Fazl, 16-20 September 1920 Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

Address to the Promised Messiah If the blessed prophet of Qadian was alive on this earth today, I would have said: “Dear Ahmad! Syedna Promised Messiah! You are the prophet of God, the reflection of the messenger of God, Muhammadsa of Arabia, the triumphant commander of the army of Islam and the glorious sultan [king] of the Heavenly Kingdom. You appeared and every prophet came alive. Your coming has revived the dead. You made the earthly [people] heavenly. Your earthly body is buried in the holy land of Qadian; but O holy Mahdi!

The bestower of [spiritual] life to the [spiritually] dead and the exhibitor of signs of the Unseen [God], you are conquering the lands of hearts in the East and the West.

You are shinning like a bright star from the horizon of the West and waking up the white dormant people of the Europe.

“O chosen messenger of Allah! Your servants who are conveying your message feel that the truth is reaching the hearts, and the supporters of the son of Mary are retreating from their place. Those who await the coming of the Messiah are deeply in love with your holy name and eager to hear your teaching. Blessed are you and blessed is your Khalifa, and surely, very fortunate are your soldiers who are fully certain to sever Abu Jahl’s head with a wooden sword. They are utilising every possible opportunity to show the glory of your God and convey the message of your arrival and also witnessing the heavenly support along with it. ‫اللھم صل علی محمد وعلی عبدک المسیح الموعود‬ “‘O Allah, bless Muhammad and Your servant, the Promised Messiah.’”

A gift to Ahmad’s messenger from the servant of Jesus It is yesterday’s incident that Nayyar and Sayal were sitting in the Ahmadiyya Library, London. Keeping in view their difficulties of tabligh, they were discussing the significant impact of outdoor lectures. They were fully convinced that the final victory belonged to that Islam, which the Promised Messiahas taught, and they had the joyful hope that one day, his work would be fruitful; this was a source of solace to their hearts.

In that hour of immersion, a slight knock on the door called our attention towards it. As soon as Nayyar opened the door, he found a noble, high class religious woman holding a parcel in her hand, waiting for

someone to come out from inside to receive the gift. Immediately after she saw the residents of Dar-ul-Tabligh [mission house] Ahmadiyya, the lady said, “Are you the ones who give sermons in the park?” Receiving the answer in the affirmative, the noble lady very respectfully handed over the parcel and said, “Here is some fruit for you.” The parcel was gladly accepted and a gift of Ahmadiyya literature was given to her as an expression of gratitude.

When the parcel was opened, pear, peaches and plums were found wrapped inside a cloth in a beautiful box of fruit.

However, the thing that expressed the condition of that lady’s heart more than the fruits are the words that were written [on a piece of paper] and placed inside the parcel of the fruit box. They are as follows: “A small gift “From the servant of the dear Jesus to the messenger of Ahmad, servant of the Most High God with respectful complement.”

We wish for those people who are reluctant to believe in the Promised Messiahas as the prophet of God and consider mentioning his holy name to be a deadly poison to come to London and see these people who present Ahmadas to the world considering him to be an elixir; so that they may [witness] that these people are being given the honourable title of Prophet Ahmad’sas messenger and getting tribute from those who love Prophet Jesusas of Nazareth.

A seeker of truth A noble young man by the name of Mr John Carter is under the tabligh of Ahmadiyya missionaries these days. He has studied the translation of the first chapter of the Holy Quran and the book, The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam. After studying the Teachings of Islam, he wrote in his last letter: “The study of this book had a profound effect on me. I do not think that I have ever read another book like it. I would be very grateful if you could send me more literature on Islam.”

Brother Leader Mahmood Our new and dear brother, James William Mahmood Leader, writes in a letter: “The world has never been in need of God’s hand as it is today. The writing is on the wall and it is very important [to do something] today. The worship of the golden calf is at its peak. Nations are invading nations to gain the upper hand.

The followers of Christianity have failed and they have made a god by embodying their own thoughts. Islam is needed all over the world. As the lightning sparks from the east and flashes in the west, so will the coming of the son of Adam be.

“The world today is in great need of moral and religious education than ever before. The worship of one God and the feeling of compassion for mankind are waning. The churches of Christianity have failed. Now is the time for Islam to fill the void. May God accept the prayers of Syedna Ahmadas.”

Tell us about Ahmad By the grace of God Almighty, extremely intelligent and learned people are getting acquainted with the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. The slogan “Tell us about Ahmadas” is frequently raised in every Jalsa. Stimulated by the outdoor speeches, a significant number of seekers of truth are coming to Dar-ulDawat [tabligh house] to gain knowledge.

We are hopeful from Allah the Almighty that people will soon accept the truth.”

Newborn Masud Brother JP Saeed Wilson of Minster has been granted a son by Allah the Almighty.

This English Ahmadi child has been named Masud. May Allah make him a blessing for his parents and the Jamaat. Amin.

Another gift Miss Victoria Norton is a serious, polite, educated and decent lady, who was influenced after listening to our speeches.

She is studying Ahmadiyya literature, and holds missionaries in high regard. To express the feelings of her heart, this kindhearted lady made a very nice and high quality cake for us yesterday, which was decorated with the word “Indian” to express her devotion. Allah the Almighty sees the hearts and rewards sincerity. We are hopeful that He will enlighten this virtuous lady with the light of Islam.

Come forward and go forth, as your time is nigh We are amazed at the people who used to say that it is inappropriate to even mention the name of the Promised Messiahas.

As mentioned earlier, people now insist themselves and ask about Prophet Ahmadas.

Even the invitations to the lectures that we receive from outside often include [requests] that they should be informed about Ahmadas.

We do not contrive or put in any special effort. The list of the lectures is presented to the people and only one in 20 lectures is on the Promised Messiahas. People also listen to other subjects with keen interest, but our present experience is that whenever a society invites us for lectures, it makes us deliver a lecture on the Promised Messiahas.

One reason behind it is that the Christian world, which is attached with religion, is waiting even more than Muslims for the second coming of the Messiah. People are feeling frustrated by setting countless time limits [for the Messiah’s return]. Hence, it is the right of those people to be informed about the Messiah’s second coming who are sincerely religious, possess some spiritual yearning and have the light of faith within them. Moreover, they are anxious because the Messiah has not returned. If

this [message of the Promised Messiah’sas arrival] is not conveyed, it will be a grave sin in the sight of Allah the Almighty and a great injustice to them. In the same way, the dejection and despair of Muslims can only be removed through this good news.

Chaudhry Sahib, based on his experience in Paris, expressed that the sad and disappointed Muslims who have gathered in Paris from Africa, Arab, Central Asian countries, Russia, etc., were very happy to hear the news that Allah the Almighty had raised a person in India who announced against all the odds that the days of the glory of Islam were near. God willing, the Russians and also the English people will soon become Muslims. In this way, the nights of sorrow of the Muslim nations will turn into days of happiness. Consequently, Allah the Almighty will wipe away the tears of the Muslims with His hand, just as a mother wipes the face of her beloved child.

There is no reason to be sad because the days of happiness and joy have come. ‫رس واپےئ دمحم ی�اں ربانمر دنلب رتمکحم ااتفد‬ ‫ی ی د‬ �‫رخبام ہک وتق وت زند‬ “Now, come forward and go forth, as your time is near. The time is now coming that the people of Muhammad will be lifted from the pit and their steps will be planted firmly on a strong tower.”

Seekers of truth In addition to the [above mentioned encouraging] circumstances, the following people also came to seek the truth: Mr Carter, Miss Norton, Miss Aaron, Mr Shaw, Mrs Shiherd, Miss Baker, Mrs DeLoria and two other ladies who have not yet given their addresses. Some Indian and Egyptian gentlemen. Among the old Ahmadi Muslims, Abdullah Bottomlay, Brother Shelley, Mrs Dolly and a couple of other old Muslims came to visit. When the accounts of the Promised Mahdias were narrated, they said with great surprise, “Why did Khawaja Sahib not mention these things?” It was explained to them that they had some financial difficulties and particularly, if they openly mention the name of the Promised Messiahas, they would be expelled from Woking. However, we are hopeful that when these people will no longer need help, they will abandon this expedient silence and spread the message of the second Ahmadas. Letters filled with brotherly connection and affection were received from Brother Muhammad Yunus Abdullah Chris and Mrs Saeeda Wilson. We request members of the Jamaat to pray that the above mentioned people may advance in faith and be reformed.

Ahmadiyya Mosque [in London] Dear friends! Congratulations that by the grace of Allah the Almighty, land has been purchased for the Ahmadiyya Mosque, London. Efforts will be made to complete the mosque in six months, insha-Allah. Apart from a residential house, the purchased piece of land has a garden of fruit trees in an area of ​​more than one acre and the mosque will be built in it, insha-Allah.

With the blessings of Allah, a thing that was once ridiculed by some is now becoming a reality. Alhamdolillah, summa alhamdolillah, summa alhamdolillah.

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Special gathering in jubilation of Ahmadiyya Mosque, London Al Fazl, 16 September 1920 A function was held on 9 September 1920 at Dainkund on the purchase of land for the Ahmadiyya Mosque, London. All the friends, including Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra], presented some chanda [donations].

Half of it was given for tabligh and the other half was used to buy refreshments.

Almost all the attendees had also prepared some poems, which were recited in turns, according to the instructions of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. After all of them, Huzoorra himself delighted the audience with a ruba‘i [four verse poem] and a ghazal [a lyric poem with a fixed number of verses and a repeated rhyme]. Thereafter, a silent prayer was carried out and the served food was eaten, which concluded the gathering.

(Rahim Bakhsh)

�‫وبےئ تبحم ےس اس یک اےنپ دامغ و دل وک اسب‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

“We do not need perfume because its scent lasts for only a few days. We will cause our hearts and minds to be scented with the fragrance of His love.” ‫ہ‬ �‫مس ی‬ � ‫ےس احلص‬ ‫ی یھب ےہ تبسنِ ذملت یسک ح�اؑ سفن ئ‬ �‫وہا ےہ ےب اجن وگ ہک ملسم رگم اب اس وک ِ ج�ا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “We have the honour of being the disciples of the Messiah, who revived the [spiritually] dead. Although, the Muslims have become lifeless, but now we will instill life in them.” ‫قیق ت‬ ِ ‫�ی‬ ‫نمشِ ح‬ ‫اٹم ےک شقن و اگنر د�ی وک ویہن ےہ وخش د ئ‬ �‫ا� ہشقن انب‬ ‫وج رھپ یھبک یھب ہن ٹم ےکس اگاب ی ا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “The enemy of truth is apparently happy to erase the traces of religion, but now we will create an image that will never be erased again.” ‫یق‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫رط� دمحم ئؐی اک‬ ‫ی‬ � ‫دخا ےن ےہ رضخِ َرہ انب ی�ا‬ ِ �‫وج وھبےل ےکٹھب وہےئ ہ�ی ان وک منص ےس الرک الم‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

Ruba‘i [four verse poem] of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra ‫رمزکرشک ےس آوازۂ ی‬ ‫وتحد ااھٹ‬ ‫ش‬ ‫ن ن‬ ‫ی‬ ‫وخر� ااھٹ‬ ‫د‬ ‫د�یکھ��ا د�یکھ��ا رغمب ےس ےہ‬ “The voice of tawhid [one God] began to rise from the center of shirk [polytheism].

Behold; behold; the sun has risen from the west.” ‫ک رہھٹے یگ‬ ‫ونر ےک اسےنم تملظ الھب ی ا‬ ‫اجن ول دلج یہ اب ملظِ انصد�ی د ااھٹ‬ “How will darkness stand before the light?

Be aware that the cruelty of false gods will soon end.”

“God has made us guides to show the path of Muhammadsa. We will reconcile the neglectful and wanderers with their Beloved [God].” ‫ئ‬ �‫امہری ان اخاسکر�ی وں رپ ہن اھک‬ ‫امہرے دنمش‬ ‫ی دوھاک‬ ‫ئ‬ �‫د� وت اخک ان یک اُڑا‬ ‫وج د�ی وک رتیھچ رظن ےس ی ا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

“The enemies should not be deceived by our humility. If they look at religion in a violent manner, we will annihilate them.” ‫اٹم ےک رفک و الضل و دبتع رک�ی ےگ آاث ِر ئد�ی وک اتزہ‬

Poem‫ ئ‬of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra ‫ت‬ ‫رِتی تبحم م‬ �‫ااھٹ‬ �‫ی یمرے پ ی�ارے رہا ک مص�ی� ب‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫ئ‬ ‫ت‬ �‫رگم ہن وھچڑ�ی ےگ ھجت وک رہ زگ ہن ی�رے در رپ ےس اج‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “O my beloved [Allah], we will bear every affliction in Your love, but we will not leave You, nor will we go away from Your threshold.‫” ئ‬ �‫اج‬ ‫ی یھب ڈاےل‬ �‫ی اہں وج پ‬ ‫رِتی تبحم ےک رجم م‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫ئ‬ ‫خ‬ �‫�ال ال‬ ‫نی ےگ ع�ی�ن راتح ہن دل م‬ �‫وت اس وک اج‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫ی ھچک ی‬ “Even if we are crushed for the crime of being in love with You, we will consider it a relief, without bringing a thought in our heart.” ‫ئ‬ ‫س‬ �‫ی آ‬ ‫م‬ ‫نی ےگ رہ زگ ہن غی ر‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫� یک مہ ہن اس ےک دوھےک ئ‬ ‫ت‬ �‫ی یہ رسِااطتع اکھج‬ ‫ی ی�رے وضحر م‬ �‫سب ا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “We will not listen to others, nor will we be deceived by them. We will only bow down our head before You in submission.” ‫ی ےگ ئ مہ وخیش ےس‬ ‫وج وکیئ وھٹرک یھب امر ےل اگ اس وک ہہس ل‬ ‫ی‬ �‫ی ےگ اینپ زسا ہ� یھت زابں ہپ وکشہ ہن ال‬ ‫ہک‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

“Even if someone hurts us, we will gladly bear it. We will say that it was our trial, but we will not complain.”

‫ن‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫ی رطع یک رضورت ہک اس یک وخوبش ئےہ دنچ روزہ‬ � ‫ی‬ �

�‫ی رفظ ےک رپمچ اُڑا‬ ‫دخا ےن اچاہ وت وکیئ دن م‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

‫ن‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫ی آ ئج آ ریہ ےہ‬ �‫احل رخاب رپ وگ یسنہ ا‬ ِ ‫امہرے‬

�‫د�ا وک اسھت اےنپ ُرال‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫رگم یسک دن امتم نی‬ “Although they are laughing at our plight today, but one day, we will make the whole world cry with us [before God].” ‫ ہ�ی اےنپ ب ی�اےن وخں ےک ئ پ ی�اےس‬،‫وہا ےہ اسرا زامہن دنمش‬ �‫وج وت ےن یھب مہ ےس ےب ُریخ یک وت رھپ وت سب رم یہ اج‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “All the people of the world have become our enemies. Our near ones and strangers have become thirsty for our blood. Then, if You [God] will also ignore us, we will surely die.” ‫ت‬ � ‫د� وک ی�ری اتفل اک ئدموتں ےس‬ ‫یقی دالےت رےہ ہ�ی نیا‬ ‫ت‬ ُ �‫ک ہنم داھک‬ ‫وج آج و� ےن ہن یک رافتق یسک وک ی ا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “We have been assuring the world of Your

“We will revive the signs of religion by eradicating disbelief, transgression and [bad] innovations. God willing, one day we will fly the flags of victory.” ‫ربخ یھب ےہ ھچک ےھجت او انداں! ہک رم ُد ِم مشچِ ئ ی�ار ہ�ی مہ‬ ‫ہ‬ �‫د� وت ھجت ہپ یلجب رگا‬ ‫ی جک رظن ےس ی ا‬ � ‫ارگ‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ [endless] love for a long time. If You will not show affection towards us today, how will we face others? ‫ن‬ ‫�پ�ی�چ‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫ی ربخ ی‬ ‫ک ےہ‬ ‫کاےہ ئہک قشع ی ا‬ �‫ڑپے ہ�ی ھے وج ےفسلف ےک ا‬ ‫یق ت‬ �‫رگم ہ�ی مہ َررہَوِ رط� امث ِر اتفل یہ اھک‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬

“The philosophical minded people do not know the beauties of love. However, we are followers of the right path, so we will surely eat the fruits of love.” ‫ک ےہ �ی قشع پ ی�ارو نھٹک ئ الب ےہ‬ ‫ک وہ ہک قشع ی ا‬ ‫ےتھجمس ی ا‬ �‫ی مہ ہپ ذگری یھبک وہ ہصق انس‬ ‫وج اس یک رفتق م‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “What do you think of love? Dear ones! The path of love is a very difficult one. Someday, we will share the story of what we went through in His absence.”

“O ill-informed! Do you know that we are the star of our Friend’s eye? If you try to look at us crookedly, we will strike you with lightning.” �‫ین م یس‬ ‫د� ئح انزاں‬ ِ ‫وہ رہش وج رفک اک ےہ رمزک ےہ سج ہپ‬ �‫ی دجسم انب‬ ‫دخاےئ وادح ےک انم رپ اک اب اس م‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ “The city that is the center of kufr [disbelief in God] and which the Christian religion is proud of; we will now build a mosque in it in the name of ‫ ئ‬one God.” ‫ین‬ �‫اجبن الب‬ ‫رھپ اس ےک مار رپ ےس نیا‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ‫د� وک قح یک ئ‬ ِ �‫رب رحی و رامحں اببگنِ ابال انس‬ ‫ی ےگ مہ‬ ِّ ‫الکم‬ “Then, we will call the world to the truth from the top of this [mosque’s] minaret.

And we will convey the words of the Most Gracious and Most Merciful God at the top of our voice.”

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Friday Sermon 21 August 2020 Men of Excellence After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

From the lives of the Badri companions, I will narrate the accounts of Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam.

Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam’s father was Awam bin Khuwailid and his mother’s name was Safiyyahra bint Abdil Muttalib, who was the paternal aunt of the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Zubair’sra lineage connects with the Holy Prophetsa through Qusai bin Kilab.

Hazrat Zubairra was the nephew of Hazrat Khadijahra, the wife of the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Zubairra was married to Hazrat Asmaara, the daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and the Holy Prophetsa was married to the other daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Aishara. In this way, the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Zubairra were married to two sisters.

Thus, Hazrat Zubairra had numerous family ties with the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Zubair’sra title was Abu Abdullah.

Initially, his mother, Hazrat Safiyyahra gave him the title of Abu Tahir, which was given to him as it was the title of her brother, Zubair bin Abdil Muttalib. However, Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam, gave himself the title after his son, Abdullah, which later became more famous.

Hazrat Zubairra accepted Islam after Hazrat Abu Bakrra. He was the fourth or the fifth person to accept Islam. Hazrat Zubairra accepted Islam at the age of 12. According to some narrations, he accepted Islam when he was eight or 16 years of age.

Hazrat Zubairra was among those 10 fortunate companions whom the Holy Prophetsa gave the glad tiding of Paradise in their lifetime. He is also among the AlSahab al-Shura – the six men who formed the consultative body and whom Hazrat Umarra nominated to be chosen as the next Khalifa before his demise. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 307, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (AlIsaba Fi Tamyeez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 2, p. 457, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) (Siyar al-Sahaba, Vol. 2, p. 67, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Darul Ishaat, Karachi, 2004) When Hazrat Zubair’sra father, Awam passed away, Naufal bin Khuwailid used to look after Hazrat Zubairra. When Hazrat Zubairra was a child, Hazrat Safiyyahra – Hazrat Zubairra’s mother – would hit him or

scold him. Upon this, Naufal, i.e his uncle, would say to Hazrat Safiyyahra, “Why do you hit and scold your children as if you are angry with them.” Upon this, Hazrat Safiyyahra read the following couplets: َ َْ َ​َ ٗ ُ ُ ّ َ َ ‫َم ْن قال ِإنِی أبْ ِغضہ فقد کذ ْب‬ َ َ ٗ ْ َ َّ ‫َو ِإن َما أض ِربُہ لِک ْی یَل ْب‬ َ َّ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ‫السل ْب‬ ِ‫و یہ ِزم الجیش و یأتِی ب‬ ْ‫َو لَا ی َ ُک ْن ل َِمالہ َخ ْباٌ ُمخَب‬ ِٖ ْ ُ​ُْ ْ‫ت ِم ْن ت َ ْمر َّو َحب‬ ِ ‫یَأکل ِفی ال َب ْی‬ ٍ Meaning, “Whoever says I am angry with him, he is a liar – For I beat him so that he may become courageous and defeat armies and return with the spoils of the dead; I do this lest he takes his wealth and retreats into seclusion, eating dates and bread.” (Al-Isabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 458, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Nevertheless, this was her mind-set and she brought up her child accordingly, so that he becomes courageous.

It is not necessary for us to commend this and say that this was a good method.

Nowadays, we see that generally this decreases the self-esteem of the children.

Nonetheless, Allah the Almighty protected him from any ill effects of this beating and strictness. A mother’s maternal affection is a natural phenomenon, undoubtedly she loved him as well and it was not the case

that she only beat him. Furthermore, events that occurred later demonstrate that bravery and courage were indeed a part of Hazrat Zubair’sra character.

Allah knows best as to the cause of this.

Nevertheless, there was no negative impact due to this treatment in his childhood.

If anyone tries this here today, the social services will show up immediately and take the children away. Therefore, mothers should not try and emulate this practice.

When Hazrat Zubairra accepted Islam, his paternal uncle would wrap him in a mat and fill it with smoke so that he would renounce Islam and return to disbelief.

However, he used to say that he would never return to disbelief. (Al-Isabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 457, Zubairra bin alAwam, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has narrated this incident in relation to Hazrat Zubairra in the following manner: “Zubairra bin al-Awam, was a very brave youth, who proved to be a great Muslim general during the Islamic conquests. His paternal uncle also tortured him greatly.

He would wrap him up in a mat and fill it with smoke from underneath in order to suffocate him. He would then say, ‘Will you now leave Islam or not?’ However, he would tolerate this torture and reply, ‘After having found the truth, I cannot deny it.’” (Dibacha

Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, pp. 196-197) Hisham bin Urwah relates from his father that when Hazrat Zubairra was a child, he had a fight with an individual in Mecca – perhaps this individual treated Hazrat Zubairra harshly. Hazrat Zubairra was young, whereas the other individual was a grown man. Nevertheless, Hazrat Zubairra broke this man’s hand during the fight and injured him severely. Subsequently, this individual was mounted on a horse and brought to Hazrat Safiyyahra in order to show the deeds of her son. Hazrat Safiyyahra asked what had happened to him? The people informed her that Hazrat Zubairra had a fight with him, but did not mention who was at fault.

Nevertheless, a fight took place. Upon this, Hazrat Safiyyah recited some verses in relation to the bravery of her son and said: َ َ َ َ َ ‫ک ْیف َرأیْت زبْ ًرا‬ ً َ​َ َ َ ٗ ‫أ ا ِقطا َح ِس ْب َتہ ا ْم ت ْم ًرا‬ ْ ًّ ْ َ ‫ا ْم ُمش َم ِعلا َصق ًرا‬ Meaning, “How did you perceive Zubair? Did you consider him to be similar to cheese or a date that you would be able to devour him easily and do to him as you please? Nay, you must have experienced that he was indeed like a swift attacking eagle.”

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 74-75, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Zubairra participated in both migrations to Abyssinia. When Hazrat Zubairra migrated to Medina, he stayed with Hazrat Mundhirra bin Muhammad.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

75, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Asmaara, the wife of Hazrat Zubairra bin Al-Awam, relates, “When I set off and migrated from Mecca, I was expecting.” She further says, “I stayed in Quba, where Abdullah bin Zubairra was born. I then brought him to the Holy Prophetsa. He placed him in his lap and asked for a date to be brought and chewed it. The Holy Prophetsa first placed his saliva in the mouth of the child (the first thing that entered the stomach of the child was the blessed saliva of the Holy Prophetsa). He then chewed the date and placed it in his

17

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM mouth and prayed for him to be blessed.

This was the first child to be born in Islam [after the migration to Medina].” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitan Manaqib Al-Ansar, Hadith no. 3909) We learn from the narration of Sahih Muslim that the Holy Prophetsa named Hazrat Asmaa’sra son Abdullah. When he was seven or eight years of age, he came to take the oath of allegiance at the hands of the Holy Prophetsa and he was instructed to do so by his father, Hazrat Zubairra.

The Holy Prophetsa smiled as he saw him approaching, and thereafter accepted the Bai‘at of Hazrat Abdullahra. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Adab, Hadith no. 2146) When the Holy Prophetsa established the bonds of brotherhood in Mecca between the Muhajireen, he established a bond between Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Abdullahra bin Masud. After the migration to Medina, the bond of brotherhood with the Ansar was established between Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Salamara bin Sulaamah. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 307, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Hazrat Zubairra named his children after martyrs, so that perhaps they too would be awarded martyrdom by Allah the Almighty.

Abdullah was named after Hazrat Abdullah bin Jahshra; Mundhir was named after Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amrra; Urwah was named after Hazrat Urwahra bin Masud; Hamza was named after Hazrat Hamzara bin Abdil Muttalib; Jafar was named after Hazrat Jafar bin Abi Talibra; Musab was named after Hazrat Musabra bin Umair; Ubaidah was named after Hazrat Ubaidahra bin Harith; Khalid was named after Hazrat Khalidra bin Saeed; Amr was named after Hazrat Amrra bin Saeed. Hazrat Amrra bin Saeed was martyred in the Battle of Yarmuk.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

74, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) We do not know how accurate this narration is because if Hazrat Abdullahra was the first child born in Islam [after the migration to Medina], Allah knows best what was his exact year of birth, but there is a doubt whether the martyrdom [of Hazrat Abdullahra bin Jahsh] had taken place by then or not. Nonetheless, the children were named after these noble companions.

Urwahra bin Zubair narrates that Hazrat Zubairra was so tall that whenever he mounted [upon an animal], his feet would touch the ground. (Al-Isabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 458, Zubairra bin alAwam, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubairra relates, “I asked my father (Hazrat Zubairra), ‘Why do I not hear you relate ahadith from the Holy Prophetsa just as Hazrat Abdullahra bin Masud and other companions do so?’ To this he replied, ‘Ever since I accepted Islam, I have never been absent from the company of the Holy Prophetsa but I have heard him say that ‘whoever knowingly attributes falsehood to me, he in turn prepares an abode for himself in hell.”’ (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, vol. 1, p. 451, Zubair bin alAwam, hadith no. 1413, Alam-ul-Kutb, Beirut, 1998) He did not imply that the others were attributing lies to the Holy Prophetsa, but only that he deemed it better for himself to remain cautious, lest he utter something incorrect – even though the Holy Prophetsa

stated that the punishment would be for those who utter falsehood knowingly.

However, he was so careful to avoid even saying something accidentally and consequently becoming among those who incur punishment. This was how cautious he was in this matter.

Hazrat Saeedra bin Musayyib relates that Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam was the first to unsheathe his sword in the way of Allah.

Once, Hazrat Zubairra was resting in the valley of Mataabikh (the name of a place in Mecca) when all of a sudden, he heard that Muhammadsa had been killed. He left his house immediately whilst wielding his sword. The Holy Prophetsa walked past the place where Hazrat Zubairra was resting and when he saw Hazrat Zubairra, he said to him, “Zubair, stop! What is the matter?”

He said that he heard someone saying that the Holy Prophetsa had been martyred.

The Holy Prophetsa asked, “What could you have done even if I had been martyred?”

Hazrat Zubairra replied, “I swear by Allah, I had intended to kill every single person dwelling in Mecca” At that moment, the Holy Prophetsa especially prayed for him.

It is stated in one narration that the Holy Prophetsa prayed for Hazrat Zubair’sra sword as well. Hazrat Saeedra bin Musayyib says, “I am certain that Allah the Almighty will not let this prayer of the Holy Prophetsa go in vain.” (Kitab Fazail-ul-Sahaba, Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 2, p. 733, Fazail Zubairra bin –al-Awam, Dar-ul-Ilm AlTaba‘a Wa Al-Nashir Al-Saudia, 1983) (AlIsti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 512, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Jeel, Beirut, 1992) (Mu‘jam-ulBuldan, Vol. 5, p. 171, Dar-ul-Kutub Alilmiyyah, Beirut) Hazrat Zubairra accompanied the Holy Prophetsa in the Battles of Badr, Uhud and all subsequent battles. During the Battle of Uhud, he remained steadfast by the side of the Holy Prophetsa and pledged allegiance even if it meant death. On the occasion of the Conquest of Mecca, one of the three flags representing the Muhajireen was carried by Hazrat Zubairra. (Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 77, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) On the day of [the Battle of] Badr, the Holy Prophetsa only had two horses with him, Hazrat Zubairra was mounted on one of them. (Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 76, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) It is related by Hazrat Urwahra that Hazrat Zubairra had three very deep sword-wounds on his body, in which he [Hazrat `Urwah] was able to put his fingers through. Two of these deep wounds were suffered during the Battle of Badr and one was suffered during the Battle of Yarmuk. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyiz al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 459, Zubairra bin alAwam, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Musa bin Muhammad narrates from his father that Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam could be recognised by his yellow turban; he was wearing a yellow turban during the Battle of Badr. Upon seeing him, the Holy Prophetsa said that angels had descended in likeness of Hazrat Zubairra – meaning the angels which Allah the Almighty had sent for their help were also dressed in the same attire. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyiz al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 459, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar alKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hisham bin Urwah narrates from his

father that Hazrat Zubairra would say that on the day of the Battle of Badr, he encountered Ubaida bin Saeed on the battleground. He was fully clad in armour and only his eyes were visible. He was known by the title of Abu Dhaat al-Karish; he began declaring “I am Abu Dhaat al-Karish.” Upon hearing this, Hazrat Zubairra attacked him with a spear and injured his eye, which resulted in his death. Hisham relates being told that Hazrat Zubairra would say that he had to place his foot on him and pull the spear out with great difficulty, and when he did, he found that both edges and become twisted. Urwah said that the Holy Prophetsa asked Hazrat Zubairra for that spear which he presented to him. When the Holy Prophetsa passed away, it came back into the possession of Hazrat Zubairra. Then Hazrat Abu Bakrra asked for the spear which he gave to him. After Hazrat Abu Bakrra had passed away, Hazrat Umarra asked for the spear and Hazrat Zubairra gave it to him. When Hazrat Umarra passed away, it returned to the possession of Hazrat Zubairra, after which Hazrat Usmanra asked to take the spear from him and Hazrat Zubairra gave it to him. When Hazrat Usmanra was martyred, the spear was given to the family of Hazrat Alira. Eventually, it came into the possession of Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubairra and it remained with him until he was martyred. (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitabul-Maghazi, Hadith no. 3998) Hazrat Zubairra bin al-Awam relates that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophetsa made reference to both of his own parents for him; meaning he said, “May my mother and father be sacrificed for you.” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, vol. 1, p.

450, Zubair bin al-Awam, hadith no. 1408, Alam-ul-Kutb, Beirut, 1998) It is narrated by Hazrat Zubairra that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, a lady passed by very swiftly. She was close to seeing the bodies of the martyrs, and the Holy Prophetsa did not like for this woman to see the bodies as they had been severely mutilated. Thus, he ordered for her to be stopped. Hazrat Zubairra relates that he suspected it was his mother, Hazrat Safiyyahra. And so, he went running towards her and met her before she reached the bodies of the martyrs. Upon seeing him, she placed her hands on his chest and pushed him back – she was very strong. She said, “Move aside, I will not speak to you” – meaning she did not want to talk to him nor was she going to listen to anything he said. Hazrat Zubairra informed her the Holy Prophetsa had firmly instructed that she should not see the bodies of the martyrs. Upon hearing this and learning that it was a command from the Holy Prophetsa, she immediately stopped. She took out two pieces of cloth which she had brought with her and said, “These are two sheets I have brought for my brother Hamza, as I received news of his martyrdom. Bury him in these sheets.”

In one narration, Hazrat Safiyyahra stated, “I am aware that my brother’s body has been mutilated, and this has been endured in the way of Allah. Why should we be displeased with what Hazrat Hamzara has endured in the way of Allah? God-Willing, I will remain patient and seek its reward from Allah.” Upon hearing this response from his mother, Hazrat Zubairra went to the Holy Prophetsa and narrated the entire incident to him. The Holy Prophetsa instructed that Hazrat Safiyyahra should be allowed to go

to see her brother’s body. Hazrat Safiyyahra proceeded to her brother’s body and upon seeing it, prayed, “Verily to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return” and also prayed for his forgiveness. Then the Holy Prophetsa ordered for him to be buried.

The narrator further states that when Hazrat Hamzara was about to be wrapped in two sheets, they saw an Ansari companion beside him who had also been martyred.

His body had also been mutilated as had been carried out with Hazrat Hamzara.

[The narrator says] “We felt ashamed that Hazrat Hamza was being buried in two sheets while there was not even a single sheet for the Ansari companion. Thus, we decided to bury Hazrat Hamzara in one of the sheets and bury the Ansari companion in the other. We found that one of them was taller than the other; thus, we drew lots and whichever sheet was drawn for either of the two, they were buried in it. Even then it was not enough and the rest of the body had to be covered with grass.” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, vol. 1, p. 452, Zubair bin al-Awam, hadith no. 1418, Alam-ul-Kutb, Beirut, 1998) (Al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 97, Safiyyah Wa Huznuha, Maktabah Wa Al-Matba’ah Mustapha AlBaabi, Egypt, 1995) (Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 10, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullahra narrates that during the Battle of the Ditch, the Holy Prophetsa asked if there was anyone who would bring him news of the Banu Quraizah. Hazrat Zubairra presented his services for the task. The Holy Prophetsa again asked if there was anyone who could bring him information regarding the Banu Quraizah. Again, Hazrat Zubairra presented himself. The Holy Prophetsa asked for a third time, if there was anyone who could bring him information regarding the Banu Quraizah. Hazrat Zubairra said that he was ready for the task. The Holy Prophetsa said, “Every prophet has a disciple and Zubair is my disciple.” Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra once heard someone saying that he was the son of a disciple of the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra said that this would only be true if he was from the progeny of Hazrat Zubairra. When asked if there was anyone other than Hazrat Zubairra who was given the title of being a disciple of the Holy Prophetsa? Hazrat Ibn Umarra said that to his knowledge there was no one else.

(Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

78, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubairra narrates that on the day of the Battle of the Ditch, he and Umar bin Abi Salama was appointed to guard the women. When he looked up, he saw Hazrat Zubairra riding a horse; he saw him going towards the Banu Quraizah two or three times. When Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubairra returned, he said, “O my father, I saw you going here and there.” He replied, “My son, did you really see me?” When he said, “Yes”, Hazrat Zubairra said, “The Holy Prophetsa asked who would go to the Banu Quraizah and bring him information regarding them, and so upon hearing this, I went. When I returned with the report, the Holy Prophetsa mentioned both his mother and father with reference to me, meaning he said, ‘May my mother and my father be sacrificed for you.’”(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Fazail Al-Sahab Al-Nabi, Hadith no. 3720)

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

18 During the Battle of Khaibar, when the well-known Jewish leader Marhab was killed

by Hazrat Muhammadra bin Maslamah, his brother Yasir came to the battlefield and declared: ُ ‫َم ْن یّ َبا ِرز‬ Meaning, “Who will challenge me?”

Hazrat Zubairra stepped forward to challenge him. Hazrat Safiyyahra said to the Holy Prophetsa, “O Messengersa of Allah, it seems that my son will be martyred today.”

The Holy Prophetsa said, “No, rather your son will kill him.” Hazrat Zubairra stepped forward to challenge Yasir and killed him.

(Al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 334, Maqatal Yasir Akhi Marhab, Maktabah Wa Al-Matba‘ah Mustapha AlBaabi, Egypt, 1995) Hazrat Zubairra was also among the three people whom the Holy Prophetsa sent to inquire about the woman who was delivering a letter of Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta to the disbelievers. Although this incident has been mentioned before, I will briefly mention it again in this context as well.

Hazrat Alira narrates, “Whilst sending me, Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Miqdadra to a certain location, the Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘When you reach Raudh Khaakh, there you will find a woman who has a letter. Take the letter from her and return.’”

Hazrat Alira further relates, “Subsequently, we set off for Raudh Khaakh”, which is the name of an area situated between Mecca and Medina. “Upon reaching there, we indeed found a woman [as mentioned by the Holy Prophetsa]. We instructed her to hand over the letter; however, she denied having any letter. We then warned her that either she should produce the letter or we would be compelled to use force and remove her clothes [in order to search for it].”

In other words, they would be willing to go to any length in order to search for the letter.

“Left with no choice, she took out the letter which was concealed in the bun of her hair and handed it over to us. We took the letter and returned to the Holy Prophetsa. Upon opening the letter, we found out that the letter was written from Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta in which he had addressed some idolaters of Mecca and was revealing information about a certain directive the Holy Prophetsa had issued.

The Holy Prophetsa asked him to explain the matter and Hazrat Hatibra submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! Please do not make a decision in haste with regard to me. [The reason I have done this is because] I am not from the Quraish, but in fact I came and joined them, therefore I wished to do a favour for them. I did not commit this act owing to disbelief or apostasy, or by giving preference to disbelief having accepted Islam. Instead, I simply did this in order to extend them a favour.’ Upon hearing this, the Holy Prophetsa stated that Hazrat Baltara had indeed spoken the truth. At the time, Hazrat Umarra was overcome with extreme anger and submitted to the Holy Prophetsa, ‘Grant me permission so that I may sever the head of this hypocrite.’ The Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘He has participated in the Battle of Badr. Do you not know that observing the people of Badr from the heavens, Allah the Almighty has declared that He has already granted them His forgiveness, regardless of what they do?’” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal,

vol. 1, p. 251, Ali ibn Talib, Hadith no. 600, Alam-ul-Kutb, Beirut, 1998) (Farhang Sirat, Syed Fazl-ul-Rehman, p. 136) When the Holy Prophetsa was granted victory over Mecca, Hazrat Zubairra bin alAwam was stood on the right flank of the army, while Hazrat Miqdadra bin Aswad was appointed to stand on its left flank. When the Holy Prophetsa entered the city of Mecca and the people felt assured [against any retribution be carried out against them], Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Miqdadra both arrived whilst mounted on their horses.

The Holy Prophetsa stood and began to wipe the dust from their faces with his own mantle and then stated, “I have assigned two portions [of the spoil] for the cavaliers and one for those on foot. Whosoever gives a share less than this, may Allah grant them less as well.” (Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 77, Zubairra bin al-Awam, Dar-ul-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Whilst narrating an incident from the life of Hazrat Zubairra, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra states: “When the Holy Prophetsa struck the idol, Hubal, with his staff, and it fell down in fragments, Hazrat Zubairra looked at Abu Sufyan with a smile and reminded him of Uhud, stating, ‘Do you remember the day when Muslims wounded and exhausted stood by and you arrogantly shouted, “Glory to Hubal, Glory to Hubal” and that it was Hubal who gave you victory over the Muslims on the day of Uhud? But today you can see Hubal shattered before you in pieces.’

Upon this, Abu Sufyan stated, ‘Zubairra, let those matters go now for had there been any other god beside the God of Muhammadsa, it would not have been possible to witness the scenes we are seeing today. Indeed, there is only one God, Who is the God of Muhammadsa.’” (Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, pp. 346-347) On the day of the Battle of Hunain, owing to the unexpected attack of arrows from the Banu Hawazin and also given that 2,000 Muslims were part of the Muslim army, who had only recently accepted Islam, consequently a particular moment came in the battle when the Holy Prophetsa was left on his own in the battlefield. Hazrat Abbasra was holding the reins of the mule which the Holy Prophetsa was mounted upon. Malik bin Auf, the commander of the disbelievers was stood in a narrow pass along with some of his men who were mounted on horses.

A cavalry could be seen in the distance and Malik bin Auf enquired from his men as to what they could see. They replied that there were some men who were resting their spears between the ears of their horses.

Upon this, Malik bin Auf stated that it was the Banu Sulaim and they did not pose any threat to them. And so, this cavalry made their way towards the valley. They then saw another cavalry and again Malik enquired what they could see and they replied that there were some men who were holding their spears in their hands. Upon this, Malik stated that they belonged to the Aus and Khazraj and they also did not pose any threat to them. Similarly, just like the Banu Sulaim, they also passed close to the narrow passage and then made their way towards the settlements. Thereafter, they saw an individual on a mount, again Malik enquired from his men as to what they could see and they reported that there was a person on a mount who was tall and was

carrying his spear on his shoulder and was wearing a red coloured turban. Upon this, Malik responded, “This is Zubair bin alAwam; I swear by Laat [the name of an idol], you will come up against him in battle, so ready yourself.” As soon as Hazrat Zubairra approached close to the narrow passage and the men mounted upon the horses could see him, Hazrat Zubairra stood resolutely like a rock against them. He then launched a series of attacks against them with his spear that not a single chieftain among the disbelievers remained in the narrow pass.

(Roshan Sitare, Ghulam Baari Saif Sahib, Vol. 3, pp. 52-53) (Al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 456, Malik bin Auf Li Qaumihi, Maktabah Wa Al-Matba‘ah Mustapha Al-Baabi, Egypt, 1995) Urwah relates from his father that during the Battle of Yarmuk, the companions of the Holy Prophetsa said to Hazrat Zubairsa, “Will you not attack the enemy, so that we may also attack along with you.” Hazrat Zuabirra replied, “If I launch an attack against them, you will be left behind.” The companions replied that this would not be the case, and so, Hazrat Zubairra attacked the enemy with such force that he penetrated right through the enemy lines. When he turned back and looked, he saw that there was no one else with him. When he tried to return, the enemy grabbed the reins of his horse and inflicted two wounds upon his shoulder on which there was already a large wound mark which he had sustained during the Battle of Badr.

Urwah further relates that as a child, he would place his fingers into his wound and play with it. He further states that during the Battle of Yarmuk, Abdullah bin Zubairra was with Hazrat Zubairra and he was only 10 years of age at the time. Hazrat Zubairra seated him upon his horse and took him along with him and appointed someone to watch over him. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul-Maghazi, Hadith no. 3975) After the conquest of Syria, Hazrat Amrra bin Aas led the conquest of Egypt.

When Hazrat Amrra bin Aas, the conqueror of Egypt, decided to attack Alexandria, he setup camp to the south of Alexandria along the edge of the River Nile. For this reason, that area is known as Fustat. Later it was developed into a city and the more recently developed part of that city is today known as Cairo.

When the Muslim besieged the Fustat, Hazrat Amrra bin Aas observing the strong fortification of the fortress and his lack of soldiers in his army, sent a request to Hazrat Umarra to send reinforcements.

Subsequently, Hazrat Umarra sent an army of 10,000 soldiers and four generals. Hazrat Umarra also stated that each general was equivalent to 1,000 soldiers and Hazrat Zubairra was one of those four generals.

When Hazrat Zubairra arrived, Hazrat Amrra bin Aas assigned him to oversee the arrangements of the siege. Hazrat Zubairra mounted on a horse and took an inspection of the fortress and then arranged the armies.

He assigned the cavalry and the infantry their respective positions and then ordered the catapults to pelt the fortress with rocks.

The siege lasted for seven months but with neither any conclusive victory, nor loss as the outcome.

One day, Hazrat Zubairra stated that he would sacrifice himself for the Muslims and with this drew his sword and climbed the

ladder and stood on top of the outer wall of the fortress. A few other companions climbed with him and all of them raised the slogan of takbir [Allah is the greatest], the rest of the army also raised the slogan in such a forceful voice that the floor of the fortress began to reverberate. The Christians thought that perhaps the Muslims had entered into the fortress and thus fled in a state of utter perplexity. Hazrat Zubairra then came down from the outer wall and opened the door of the fortress and the entire Muslim army marched through. (Roshan Sitarey, Ghulam Baari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, pp.

54-55), (Mu‘jamul Buldan, p. 259, Al-Faisal Urudu Bazaar, Lahore, 2013) In relation to Hazrat Umar’sra demise and of Hazrat Zubair’sra nomination as part of the electoral committee and the subsequent election of Khilafat, there is a narration of Bukhari which is as follows: “When Hazrat Umarra was close to his demise, the people said, ‘O Leader of the Faithful! Appoint a successor after you as part of your will.’ Hazrat Umarra said, ‘I do not find anyone more suitable for the station of Khilafat than the following persons whom the Holy Prophetsa had been pleased with before he passed away’.

Then Hazrat Umarra mentioned the names of Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Usmanra, Hazrat Zubairra, Hazrat Talhara, Hazrat Saadra and Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf and said, ‘Abdullah bin Umarra will be a witness to you, but he will not be entitled to the station of Khilafat. Hazrat Umarra then said, ‘If Khilafat is granted to Saadra, then he will be Khalifa: otherwise whoever becomes the Khalifa should continue to seek assistance from Saadra because I have not removed him from his office owing to any incompetence or dishonesty on his part.’

Hazrat Umarra added, ‘I first and foremost recommend that my successor takes care of the Muhajireen [those Muslims who migrated to Medina]; to know their rights and to protect their honour. I also urge to show kindness to the Ansar, for they allowed faith to enter their homes in Medina even before the arrival of the Muhajireen. I recommend that he should accept the good deeds from among them and whoso is at fault from among them, they ought to be forgiven. I recommend that he should do good to all the people of the towns, as they are the protectors of Islam and the source of wealth and a means of frustrating the enemy. I also recommend that nothing be taken from them except from their surplus with their consent.

I also recommend that he do good to the Arab Bedouins, as they are the natives of Arabia and they make up the core following of Islam. He should take that from among their possessions which they are not in need of and distribute it amongst their needy.

I also recommend him concerning those people who are under the protection of Allah and His Messengersa, to fulfil the covenants that have been established with them and to defend them and not to overburden them with what is beyond their ability.’”

When Hazrat Umarra passed away and they completed the burial proceedings, all the six people named by Hazrat Umarra gathered together. Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf stated: “Select any three candidates among you for Khalifat.” Hazrat Zubairra said, “I give my vote to Hazrat Alira.” Hazrat Talhara said,

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Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM “I give my vote to Hazrat Usmanra.” Hazrat Saadra said, “I give my vote to Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf.” Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra then said to Hazrat Usmanra and Hazrat Alira, “Whoever of you withdraws their name, we will entrust him with the responsibility [in regards to who will be granted leadership] and Allah and Islam will be their guardian and Allah the Almighty will choose the one Who He deems most worthy.” Upon hearing this, both noble men fell silent.

Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra then said, “Will you both leave this matter to me, and I take Allah as my Witness that I will not choose, but the better of you?” Both of them agreed.

So Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra took the hand of one of them and said, “You are related to Allah’s Messengerra and you hold a lofty status within Islam, which you are aware of. Allah is your guardian – if I select you as our leader will you do justice? And if I select Usmanra as our leader, will you listen to him and obey him?” Then Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra took the other aside and advised him in a similar manner. When Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf secured this covenant from both of them, he then said, “O Usmanra! Extend your hand.” He [i.e. Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra] then took the pledge of allegiance followed by Hazrat Alira and the members within the household also came and pledged their allegiance to Hazrat Usmanra. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Fazail Al-Sahaba Al-Nabi, Hadith no. 3700) I related the details of this event previously but have narrated the relevant part here as well. There are further accounts of Hazrat Zubairra, which will be narrated in the future, insha-Allah.

I will now present some details regarding the funeral prayers I will lead. The first funeral is of respected Miraj Ahmad Sahib Shaheed, the son of Mahmood Ahmad Sahib, from Dabgri Garden, Peshawar. The opponents of Ahmadiyyat martyred him by firing gun shots at him outside his medical store on 12 August at 9pm: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْن‬ ِ ‫ِانال ِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Verily to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

The details of the incident are as follows: The deceased was leaving to go home from his medical store at 9pm after finishing his work for the day when unknown assailants fired gunshots and then fled the scene. The deceased was hit with four bullets and as a result, died on the spot. At the time of his demise, he was approximately 61 years of age. A few minutes prior to the incident, the deceased’s son, Yasir Ahmad, had just left to go home from the medical store.

His son was informed about the incident through his father’s mobile phone. When his son arrived at the medical store, his father had already passed away.

Ahmadiyyat entered the family of the Shaheed through his grandfather, respected Ahmad Gul Sahib and his brother, Sahib Gul Sahib, in 1912. He was also a very famous poet in the Pashtu language. Since the family had associations with Sheikh Muhammadi Peshawar, the family joined the ghair mubai‘een, who are also referred to as the Lahori Jamaat or the Paighamis – they did not do the Bai‘at of Khilafat.

However, respected Miraj Sahib, along with his three brothers, took the Bai‘at in 199091 and entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat and thereafter, he continued to face persecution

till his martyrdom.

Even his employees were not willing to work with him owing to their religious animosity. For some time, an extremely intense opposition was being carried out on social media and particularly after the killing of Tahir Naseem, it further increased.

Against this backdrop, plans were being made in order to start a campaign against Qadianis [Ahmadis] after Eid [ul-Adha] to completely rid the area of Ahmadis. The next area to be targeted was the area where the shaheed [martyr] resided.

The shaheed possessed many outstanding qualities. He would regularly offer congregational prayers at home.

He had a bond of great love for Khilafat and would always make a special effort to listen to the sermons on MTA. Aside from his attendance in Jamaat programmes, his hospitality of guests, compassion and helping the poor were among his special qualities. He would give medication to the poor for free and treated each member of his family with great kindness.

He also showed great love towards the families of his brothers and his love for his brothers further increased upon accepting Ahmadiyyat. He had a great passion for propagating the message of Islam. Whenever the Jamaat office-bearers would arrive to take his pledge for the new year of Tahrik-eJadid, he would immediately place his hands in his pockets and whatever amount he had, he would pay it towards his Chanda and he did the same this year as well.

His son, Yasir, migrated to Australia in 2012 and the shaheed also moved to Australia in 2013 to be with his son. However, in 2014, he returned to Pakistan with his son and stated that it was his desire to serve the poor people of his area and country and that the love of his country had compelled him to return to Pakistan.

When I visited Australia, he met me there. He served as secretary ziafat for Peshawar Jamaat for a long time. Out of love for their country, Ahmadis are ready to offer any sacrifice necessary, but these so-called custodians of the country do nothing but level allegations and cause harm to Ahmadis. Nonetheless, Ahmadis will continue to perform deeds in line with our character.

He served as secretary ziafat for Peshawar Jamaat for a long time and until his demise he has the opportunity to serve in this position. Last Ramadan, he also sat etikaf [spending the last ten days of Ramadan in the mosque].

One of his brothers, Farooq Ahmad Sahib, passed away in a traffic accident.

Another brother of his has a shop nearby.

He also receives threats and lives in constant danger.

The deceased martyr is survived by his wife, respected Rashida Miraj Sahiba, three sons – Yasir who is 27 years old, Musawer Ahmad who is 25 years old and Jazib who is 14 years old – and one daughter, Aisha, who is studying MBBS. Jazib also faces a lot of opposition in school.

May Allah the Almighty protect these children from the evil of mischievous people. Currently the opposition in Pakistan has increased greatly again. In fact, members of parliament are levelling false accusations against us and are arousing the emotions of the people. The wrongful actions of certain individuals are portrayed in a deceptive

manner and through false propaganda, it is asserted that they are Ahmadis, yet the perpetrators of these actions have nothing to do with the Jamaat.

Similarly, for mere cheap publicity, these days, every ignorant person is able to make a programme on YouTube against the Jamaat and they think that they are carrying out a deed that would earn them reward.

However, their motives are not pure and in fact they are only seeking cheap publicity.

May Allah the Almighty revert the evil of the mischievous ones back onto themselves.

During these days, Ahmadis around the world and particularly those living in Pakistan ought to offer more supplications.

Recite the following profusely: َ ُ َ ْ َ ُّ ُ ّ َ ْ َ‫ک َر ّب ف‬ ْ ‫اح َف ْظ ِن ْی َوانْ ُص ْرنِ ْی َو‬ ‫ار َح ْم ِنی‬ ‫ر ِب کل شی ٍء خادِم‬ ِ [My Lord everything is in Your servitude.

My Lord, protect me, therefore, and help me and have mercy on me.] ُ َ ُ َُ َ ُ ُ َ ُ َ ْ َ َّ َ ُ ّ ٰ َ ‫اللھ ّم اِنا نجعلک ِف ْی نح ْو ِرھِ ْم ونع ْوذ بِک ِم ْن ش ُر ْو ِرھِ ْم‬ [O Allah! We make You our shield against them (i.e. the enemies) and we take refuge in You from their evils.]

Also recite the Durood Sharif [invoking salutations on the Holy Prophetsa] in abundance. May Allah the Almighty keep every Ahmadi safe from the harm of the evil ones. The more their enmity towards us increases, the more we ought to incline towards Allah the Almighty.

Yasir Sahib, the son of the martyr, writes: “By the grace of Allah, my father was a musi [part of the institution of Al-Wasiyyat] and would always offer his Chanda with full sincerity. Aside from this, he would always be concerned on account of others and help them financially. My father was a very courageous and brave person. Despite opposition, he did not fear anything and always trusted Allah the Almighty. He would always say that he did not fear any opposition as Allah the Almighty was with him.”

He further says: “He was a very simple, humble and generous person who would help others with an open heart. He had a righteous disposition and would remain engaged in the remembrance of God. He had a strong bond with Allah the Almighty and had full trust in Him. It was his habit to offer prayers and the Tahajud prayers regularly. He would always be occupied in the recitation of the Holy Quran and would advise his children to do the same. This year, he sat etikaf in Ramadan. He would say that in a dream, he saw that the immoral people and hypocrites suffered a dreadful end and would say openly that Allah the Almighty had saved for him in abundance [in the Hereafter].”

Since he remained for a short time in Australia, Amir Sahib [National President] Australia as well as members of Australia Jamaat have written that he was a very devoted member and an active worker. He was very sociable, loving, hospitable and humble. He was a brave and courageous Ahmadi. He would speak less and was softspoken. When he decided to move back to Pakistan, his friends and also his children tried to stop him due to the dangerous situation in Pakistan, but he said that even if his life is taken for the sake of the Jamaat, there would be no greater honour for him.

Subsequently he moved back [to Pakistan].

The zaeem Ansarullah of Melbourne writes:

“Two days prior to his martyrdom, I received a phone call from him in which he said that the opposition had increased significantly; however, he was not afraid of anything.”

The second funeral is of Adeeb Ahmad Nasir, who was a missionary and the son of Muhammad Nasir Dogar Sahib of Ehdhipur, Narowal [Pakistan]. He passed away on 9 August at the age of 27 years after a brief illness. َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْن‬ ِ ‫ِانال ِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Verily to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return” He studied in Jamia Ahmadiyya and graduated in 2017. After graduating, he was working in Islah-o-Irshad Muqami.

He was engaged to be married soon as well.

On 9 August, he developed complications relating to typhoid, which worsened into high fever and delirium. During this time, he did not rest and continued to work and also travel. However, after two or three days of this brief illness he passed away as a result of this fever.

His father, Nasir Dogar Sahib says: “As parents, our son, who was a life devotee, was a sense of pride for us. He was a very pious and sincere son; he was regular in his prayers and observing the fasts; he was a very simple person and was softly spoken; he always had a smile on his face.” This quality of his was mentioned by his missionary friends or those who were acquainted with him that he always had a smile on his face.

“He had a love and passion to serve the Jamaat and was very popular personality.

Before he was assigned to serve in the Chenehki Jamaat, he worked with a lot of passion and dedication in the construction of Bait-ul-Zikr and the residence for the missionary. He saved out of his monthly allowance”, despite being a small allowance and “he gave 30,000 rupees for the construction of the mosque and would urge for the work to begin. We always heard him say, ‘Begin the work and Allah the Almighty will grant His blessings.’”

His mother, Nasira Sahiba, says: “The day Adeeb Ahmad was born was a day of happiness for us because we had offered him in the way of God Almighty.

After four daughters, we were bestowed a son and we were overjoyed because he would grow up to become a missionary. The second day on which we were overjoyed was when we were called to Jamia and Adeeb was handed his Shahid certificate [of graduation]. He was a very pious and obedient son.”

When he was working in the field, he would phone every day and enquire about his mother’s health. He would ask about her medication and advise her to look after her health. He was a very pious individual.

Whenever it was time for the harvest of wheat, as they owned farmland, he would say to his mother to keep a substantial amount of wheat at home as the poor and needy would often come and through this they would be able to help them.

In the Chenehki Jamaat, which is a place in Ehdhipur, he was staying in one room which did not have all the provisions etc, but despite this he continued to fulfil his duty with great patience. Javed Langa Sahib, who is the regional missionary of Faisalabad district, writes: “The deceased understood the spirit

Friday 18 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

20 of Waqf [devotion] and would live his life accordingly. He worked with great diligence and worked hard to ensure the moral training of the Jamaat. He co-operated fully with office-bearers, especially with regard to tarbiyati endeavours, he would share clips of the Khulafa for the members of the Jamaat to listen to. If he would see a shortcoming in anyone, he would advise them in private, in order to preserve their self-respect. He would assist everyone, he had love for Khilafat and was obedient to the Nizam of the Jamaat. Among his notable qualities were that he was very sociable, well-mannered, had a simple disposition and was humble. He was very polite and would always remain content with the will of God.” May Allah the Almighty grant patience and comfort to his parents and also enable them and his sisters to bear this loss. May Allah grant His mercy and forgiveness to the deceased and elevate his status.

The next funeral is of respected Hameed Ahmad Sheikh Sahib, who was the son

of Sheikh Muhammad Hussain Sahib. He passed away due to a heart attack on 12 August at the age of 85 years. َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْن‬ ِ ‫ِانال ِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Verily to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return” Hameed Sahib was the paternal grandson of Sheikh Nur Ahmad Sahib, who was a companion of the Promised Messiahas.

Hameed Sahib’s father, Sheikh Muhammad Hussain Sahib had the opportunity to serve as the amir of Chiniot. After performing the Bai‘at, the Promised Messiahas advised Hazrat Sheikh Nur Ahmad Sahibra that he ought to send both his sons to Qadian for their education. Accordingly, respected Hameed Ahmad Sheikh Sahib’s father, Sheikh Muhammad Hussain Sahib, completed his matriculation examinations from Qadian and had the honour of being in the same class as Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.

Hameed Ahmad Sheikh Sahib’s maternal grandfather was Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Qadir Sahib Ludhianvira who was among the 313 companions of the Promised Messiahas.

Hameed Sheikh Sahib married the paternal granddaughter of Hazrat Munshi Zafar Ahmad Sahibra of Kapurthala.

Respected Hameed Sheikh Sahib was a chartered architect and completed his studies from London in 1973. His brother was Rasheed Ahmad Sahib of Wimbledon, who used to be in charge of the roti plant.

The deceased is survived by two sons and one daughter. One son of the deceased, Abdur Razzaq Sheikh Sahib, is the vicechairman of our IAAAE association.

Abdur Razzaq Sheikh Sahib writes: “My father was very loving and a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather. Every member of the family loved him dearly.

He was a pious and sincere member of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. He would never forsake an opportunity to serve the Jamaat in any capacity. He would write letters to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and would advise his children to do the same. He would urge his children to always remain in contact with the local Jamaat and constantly remind them about this. He would offer prayers in

congregation and would advise his children the same. He would actively take part in all financial initiatives of the Jamaat. Two weeks prior to his demise, he ensured that all of his arrears were paid.”

He stayed in Nigeria as well. During his stay there, he would advise about the refurbishment of the mosques and the land for the mission house, based on his professional expertise. When he left Nigeria, he gave his car to the Jamaat as a gift. When he was in Islamabad, Pakistan, he served as the IAAAE chairman. Nevertheless, he had the opportunity to serve in various capacities.

May Allah the Almighty enable his children to carry on his virtuous deeds, may He bestow His Mercy and forgiveness upon the deceased and elevate his status. After the Friday prayers, insha-Allah, I shall lead the funeral prayers of all three [in absentia].

(Original Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International, 11 September 2020, pp. 5-10.

Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Where stars descend Where Stars Descend is a series looking at the efforts of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa for the progress of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, written by a bystander

Chapter I (Tawakkul)

Chapter II (Purifying)

Chapter III (Spiritual strength)

Chapter IV (Subduing the ego)

Chapter V (Multidimensional vision)

Chapter VI (Nurturing the future)

www.alhakam.org/category/where-stars-descend/ Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | Sub-Editorial Ataul Fatir Tahir | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2020