Al Hakam - 25 March 2022

From the Markaz Members of Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya, Norway meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V

Companions of the Promised Messiah and their love for the Holy Prophet In light of their dreams and visions

How Christianity spread in British India: Crusade of the Clapham Sect

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Islamic teachings on protecting and spending national wealth

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THE WEEKLY

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www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 | Issue CCX Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7396

“We cannot do anything in this world without the help of Allah” MKA USA blessed with a third week of virtual meetings with Huzoor On 19 March 2022, 245 Khuddam from Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA, Maryland had the opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, Khalifatul Masih V through a virtual mulaqat.

Talha Ahmad Malik Sahib was called up to recite a portion of the Holy Quran and Jaheim Thomas Sahib read the English translation. A tarana (choral poem) was then read by three Khuddam. The translation of the poem was read out by Jaeden Cosmen Sahib.

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

Adhering to the Jamaat

َ َ َّ َ ْ َ ‫ قال‬،‫اس‬ ٍ ‫ع ِن اﺑ ِن عب‬ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ َ َ ّٰ ُ ‫قال َر ُسول الل ِه صلى الل ُه َعل ْي ِه َو َسلم‬ ْ َ ّٰ ُ َ ‘‘ ‫’’يَد الل ِه َم� ا��َ َماع ِﺔ‬

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Allah’s Hand is with the Jamaat.”

(Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Fitan ‘an Rasulillahsa, Hadith 2166)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

The Battles of Islam were defensive Similarly, their allegations relating to slavery and jihad are also unfounded, because a long chain of similar wars are alluded to in the Torah as well. The wars in Islam were defensive and came to an end in a mere ten years. I confidently say that I can take out and present similar teachings from their own scriptures. I also confidently proclaim that all truths are encompassed by the Holy Quran. If anyone claims that they can present a verity that is not to be found in the Quran, I am prepared to demonstrate that the Quran speaks of that particular point. The Islamic shariah has presented injunctions which accord to the inherent nature of man, and which nurture his faculties in every respect. No allegation can be levelled against the tenets of Islam.

However, the objections held by Islam in respect of other religions are ones for which the adherents of those faiths have no answer.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 5-6)

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Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then launched the new ‘MKA Strive’ app created by the talim and tarbiyat department of MKA USA. A demonstration of the features of the new app was presented by Sohaib Awan Sahib. MKA Strive app includes the following features: • An interactive syllabus for Khuddam, taking them from basic religious knowledge to an advanced level • It includes Jamaat literature and books and multiple-choice questions about the content read through the app • Questions and answers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh • Salat times and tracking • The Friday Sermons of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa After listening to the presentation, Huzooraa prayed: “May Allah the Almighty make it a source of blessing and knowledge for Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya United States.”

Huzooraa asked Madeel Abdullah Sahib, Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA about the Covid-19 protocols in the USA and then advised: “It is better that we should try to follow the protocol with regards to Covid pandemic – at least you should cover your faces with the mask. You should take precautionary measures, that is more sane.”

Sadr sahib then requested Huzooraa for the Khuddam to ask questions, which Huzooraa accepted.

Nasr Ahmad Sahib from Queens asked Huzooraa how he reached certainty in God’s existence and whether this was through a specific event Huzooraa experienced.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa smiled and said, “Very difficult question”. Huzooraa then referred to an answer he had given in a previous meeting and said: “[…] I was brought up in such an atmosphere where the environment was such that I never felt that God does not exist.

Even [through] my personal experiences, I knew from the very childhood that for all my requirements or desires – or to get anything – I’ll have to bow before Allah the Almighty and ask Him to give me these things [and] beseech His help.

“And when I was grown up – at the age of 14, 15 – then I experienced that there were some occasions when if Allah the Almighty had not helped me I would not have succeeded, even in my secondary school examinations. That strengthened my faith. And even after that, there were so many occasions.

“When I was going to get my Master’s degree, at that time also, you see I was very much anxious and I was not feeling comfortable. At that time Allah the Almighty comforted me by showing me one of the revelations of the Promised Messiahas and that satisfied me, and it proved to be the right dream which I saw. So, it again strengthened my faith.

“There were so many occasions I’ve experienced from childhood to today that Allah the Almighty is showing His signs” Ayzir Worsham Sahib from Philadelphia said he recently converted to Islam Ahmadiyyat and was “very passionate in serving Allah and Islam”. He asked Huzoor’s for advice on how to fulfil this passion.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said the first

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Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

You should try to learn how to read the Holy Quran

in Arabic text. Start learning it. Even during that time you can also read the translation of it and find out from the

Holy Quran what are the commandments given to us for

our betterment. What are the dos and don’ts given in the Holy Quran for us to practise and for us to avoid them and refrain from them. element was to keep in mind that Allah said He created humans for His worship.

Huzooraa continued: “Since you have accepted Ahmadiyyat you should try to offer your five daily prayers and in your prayers, you pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah guides you, always keep you steadfast and strengthens your faith. If you are fervently praying in this way, that will help you to increase your faith.

“Secondly, you should try to learn how to read the Holy Quran in Arabic text.

Start learning it. Even during that time you can also read the translation of it and find out from the Holy Quran what are the commandments given to us for our betterment. What are the dos and don’ts given in the Holy Quran for us to practise and for us to avoid them and refrain from them.

“In this way, you will increase your knowledge, your faith and your close relationship with Allah the Almighty. And as the time goes on you will insha-Allah feel that you are getting closer to Allah and that will strengthen your faith and you can do whatever you want to do with regards to your religion, with regards to your spiritual betterment and whatever passions you have in your mind and heart.”

Hearing Huzoor’s answer, Ayzir Sahib expressed: “Thank you. I really appreciate that because I needed that.”

Huzooraa asked Ayzir Sahib what his religious background was to which he said his father was a Christian and that was where his faith in God started. Ayzir Sahib also said he was the only Muslim in his family.

Usman Khalid Sahib said racial tensions, nationalism and economic disparity were increasing and worsening in the United States. He asked how Ahmadi Muslims could play a positive role in resolving these issues.

Huzooraa said: “Yes, you are right. It is increasing but not only in the United States, the popularity of rightists is increasing and racists are increasing in so many Western countries.

“Even in the recent war between Russia and Ukraine, those people who are migrating from Ukraine to the European countries – there are quite a number of

immigrants living in Ukraine, there were Asians, Africans and some other nations.

But when they reached any of the European countries or even to Poland across the border, they were saying we shall only accept local Ukrainians, not the foreigners.

That also shows that some racism is working there and they were maltreated. Anyway, our Humanity First group is there so they treated them well and helped them.”

“Your question is what role you can play to overcome the situation.

“It needs justice and absolute justice. So, you tell your countrymen that ‘Americans – the present Americans – are not the natives of this country. Red Indians were natives of the country [and that] they did not do justice with [the Red Indians] and they are not considered as first-class citizens of the country.’ Although they claim [otherwise], practically their rights are being denied in so many ways. So, you tell them that, ‘This cannot work for a long period.’

“Secondly these are the people who brought Africans to their country, either as slaves or helpers or whatever it is. […]”

Huzooraa said that as Americans brought Africans into their country, those Africans deserved respect and due rights as they had played a key role in developing the USA. He said: “These are the people who played a vital role for developing the country; so they should be respected; they should be given due rights. Ask them that they should realise this fact. Otherwise, a time will come when they will revolt, people will stand up against them and then they, themselves, will ruin their country.

“This is the time that they should change their mind and instead of just being racial and showing supremacy of their colour and race, they should rather do justice. This is how we can tell the people that: “‘We are your real sympathiser, we want you to change your mindset and now live together amicably with all other races. Now America is a multination country; there are South Americans, Eurasians, Asians, Africans and white Americans. So, now we should respect each other and live amicably in the country. Otherwise, we are going to doom our nation and our country.’

“This is the message we should spread everywhere and Ahmadis should play their

role in this regard.”

Basil Sindhu Sahib from South Virginia asked Huzooraa: “Growing up, what were some of the ways you were able to stay attached with Khilafat?”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “I only knew that I have to obey whatever the Khalifa says and I have to love him. And I prayed for it even. Whenever I would see that, today when I went to see my Khalifa and I feel some different attitude on his face for myself, then I prayed to Allah the Almighty that if I have done something wrong, Allah forgives me and if he has any doubt in his mind for me, Allah the Almighty removes it. That was the only way; I prayed to Allah.

“Whenever I felt something, I always considered it as my fault, not that he has done something wrong. And I prayed to Allah the Almighty and Allah accepted my prayers. And I always saw that the next day, or after some time, Allah created some occasions where I was given some extraordinary blessings from the Khalifa of that time.

“So you should also pray.”

Raza Ahmad Sahib asked: “What is the best way to offer tahajjud prayer and how can we build a habit to offer tahajjud regularly?” He also asked how Huzooraa offered tahajjud.

Huzooraa said: “If you are determined that you have to offer tahajjud prayer regularly, then before going to bed you pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah helps you and wakes you up on time. Use three to four alarms on your iPhone or iPad. I think that will help you to make you get up at that time.

“It all depends on your determination; to do something good needs determination, otherwise, you cannot do [it].”

With a smile, Huzooraa then remarked: “And you say how do I do it? I also use the same method.”

Uwais Mirza from Central Jersey asked, “What role does the Holy Quran play in the life of a student?”

Huzooraa said: “The Holy Quran says: َۡۡ ُ ۡ َ ‫اس َت ِبقوا الخی ٰر ِت‬ ‫ف‬ “[Meaning] excel in your good deeds.

You will have to find out what are the good deeds and what are the bad things. The Holy Quran says you strive hard, you work hard,

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Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during the virtual meeting with Khuddam from USA

you try to excel in every field.

“Being a Muslim you should be among the topmost people. […] you will have to increase your knowledge, you will have to excel yourself in your faith, you will have to be determined in doing good things – that is that guidance given to us in the Holy Quran: َۡۡ ُ ۡ َ ‫اس َت ِبقوا الخی ٰر ِت‬ ‫ف‬ “Means strive hard for gaining the good things. And you know what is good for a student. The first thing is, what is good for a good Muslim? To worship Allah the Almighty, to follow His commandments, to become morally good – practise good things.

“And then to also increase in the field you are working in. If you are a student you work hard, if you are doing some job you be honest to your job, if you are an employee or businessman you have to be honest. This is the guideline given to us in the Holy Quran.”

Huzooraa asked Uwais Sahib, “As a student, what is your desire? Don’t you want to be among those people who excel in their studies?” Uwais Sahib replied in the affirmative to which Huzooraa said, “That is what the Holy Quran says.”

Ali Chaudhry from Virginia asked what the Islamic teachings were for getting rid of addictions.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “Again, I would say ‘determination’. As I have already said, any good thing requires determination and steadfastness. Once you achieve that goal, then you have to be steadfast.

“The first thing is that if you know that these are the bad things, you have to hate them, loathe them. Then be determined that you are not going to indulge yourself in these things.

“Thirdly, pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah keeps you away from all these things and make you steadfast in it.

“Then avoid all those people – your fellow students or others – who are involved in these bad things. There are good students in your school and college and university, if you want to make friends, you try to make friends from among those people who are good in their moral character. And if you

see anything wrong in them after having known them, then you just leave them till the time they reform themselves or they involve themselves in doing other things.

“It all depends on your company as well.

Your company counts very much. If you have good friends, that will help you.

“And also pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah helps you in this regard. This is the only way. Otherwise, in this present-day world, it’s too hard to get rid of these things.

It is only Allah Who can help you, and your determination and steadfastness.”

Zeeshan Ahmad Sahib from South Virginia said the Promised Messiahas had defined taqwa as ‘fear of Allah’. He asked Huzooraa if it was more important to have the fear Allah in one’s heart or the love of Allah. He also asked if fear and love of Allah were independent.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “[…] [The Promised Messiahas] has elaborated and explained these things in some other books and other speeches, and addresses and his discourses, that what muttaqi means. ‘Fear Allah’ but not because of His being cruel to the human being. But you should fear Allah because you love Him. You have a fear that if you do something wrong He will not be happy with you.

“So, to make Him happy, you always do good things and that is what ‘fear’ means.

You fear him because of the love – out of love you fear him as you fear your parents or any loved one. Not because of their cruel actions, they love you, who loves you in this world more than your mother, right?

But you fear her, you cannot do something wrong in front of her.

“The same way you should fear Allah the Almighty. He is most loving, caring. And if you fear Him and you love Him, then you will see that how He treats you and how you will be saved from bad things.

“Your fear should be out of love for Allah the Almighty, not because of His being cruel to the human beings. No contradiction.”

“And read more passages and excerpts of the books of the Promised Messiahas. Even in The Essence of Islam, you can read some more quotations and passages.”

Ahmad Musawir Sahib from Queens asked what advice Huzooraa would give to become a good husband and parent.

Huzooraa asked Musawir Sahib if he was married to which he said he was not. With a smile, Huzooraa remarked, “So, you are preparing yourself for that.” Huzooraa then asked Musawir Sahib his age to which he said he was 23. Huzooraa commented: “That’s quite a ripe time for marriage.

May Allah the Almighty give you a good match, good wife. But you, yourself have to be very much humble and nice in this regard.”

Advising on how to become a good husband and parent, Huzooraa said: “Do not think that in this world any person is perfect. If husband and wife know that none of them is perfect, everyone has some shortcomings in them – in him or her – then they should give margin to each other. And instead of getting annoyed or starting quarrelling or fighting with each other because of their shortcomings, you always see the good things in them.

“Instead of finding the bad things or shortcomings in each other, you should try to find the good things in each other. That is the only way you can be a good husband.

“To your children, you have to be very kind, you have to be morally good, you have to set your own example before them. If you set your own example before your own children – first before your wife and then children – then you will see that they will follow you.

“If you are saying something different and asking them to do something different, they will say ‘my father’ or ‘my husband’ ‘is a hypocrite. He is something different and asking us to do something different’.

“Your words and your actions should be the same. That will help you to make a good family life and train your children and do proper tarbiyat of your children.”

Damon Stengal Sahib from Oshkosh asked: “What is the best way for a Khadim to avoid the trap of materialism in America?”

Huzooraa responded by saying: “Not only in America, everywhere in the world – all the Western world or all those

countries where religion is being neglected; no proper attention is being paid to the religion. “[…] We cannot do anything in this world without the help of Allah the Almighty. There are so many attractions in this world, at every corner, after every small distance there are so many attractions [that] will attract you and will take you away from your purpose of life. If you realise the purpose of your life, Allah says in the Holy Quran: َّ ۡ ۡ َۡ​َ ‫َو َما خلق ُت ال ِج َّن َوالۡاِن َس ِالا ل َِی ۡع ُب ُد ۡو ِن‬ “‘I have not created Jinn and human beings’ but to worship Allah the Almighty.

“If you are fervently praying to Allah that Allah keeps you away from all the bad things of the society then whether it is in America or elsewhere, and even in the Third World, or anywhere else […] then Allah will help you.

“And as I have already said, again, ‘determination’ – you have to be determined.

This is the only solution.

“Without the help of Allah the Almighty we cannot avoid all these things. And when you are praying, [you] not only pray to Allah the Almighty and you say that ‘I prayed to Allah in my five daily prayers and I did tahajjud also but still I am not saved from these things.’ No. Then again; determination.

You, yourself will have to avoid these things, keep your distance from these things.

“Allah the Almighty says in another place that Allah will show you His way when you are steadfast in your practice. Then Allah will guide you. First, you will have to take action, take a step, then Allah will bless that step, that action.

“Only prayers cannot work, nor only your action can work – both should go together. Then Allah will help you to keep you away from the bad things of the society.”

Damon Stengal Sahib then told Huzooraa that he was going to get married that very same day. Huzooraa prayed: “Allah the Almighty bless your marriage in every respect.”

Umar Kamal Sahib from Harrisburg Continued on next page >>

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

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asked Huzooraa how one could protect themselves from subtle influences of shirk [associating partners with God] in everyday life. Kamal Sahib said an example of this was when people spoke about Jesusas in a way that would be considered shirk.

Huzooraa said: “If somebody believes that Hazrat Isa is the son of God then he has the right to believe whatever he likes. But you can just tell him what your belief is. If you are saying ‘Yes, what you are saying is right’ or when the Bible is being read in school and you say ‘Yes, Jesus is the son of God’ then it is shirk.

You can just keep quiet at that time. And when you are sitting with your friends then you tell them that ‘This is your belief, this is my belief. We consider him as the prophet of God.’ “So you can tell your opinion according to your religion, otherwise, you cannot just fight them or tell them ‘you are doing wrong’ – [there’s] no need to create the atmosphere of tension and fighting or quarrel or something like that. […]

“If somebody is saying that he is the son of God, then what does it matter? How does it affect you? There are quite a number of people who have told me Jesus is the son of God. Then what does this matter?

“We have our own belief, we are firm in our belief. […] If he is a very close friend of yours, then you can tell that ‘no, this is my opinion and this is more logical.’ And if you that by confronting him some tension can be created at that time, then avoid that place.”

Abeer Alam Sahib from North Jersey was next to speak to Huzooraa and said he was part of the Waqf-e-Nau scheme.

Huzooraa asked him what he wanted to do and whether he would continue his waqf when older. Abeer Sahib said he wanted to go into the medical field and was not sure about his waqf. Huzooraa said, “You have to decide that being a waqif-e-nau, what are your duties and what should you do in future.”

Abeer Sahib then asked Huzooraa how he could best control his anger and temper.

Lovingly, Huzooraa said: “I hope my words did not make you angry.”

Abeer Sahib Sahib smiled and expressed that the words did not make him angry.

Huzooraa continued: “If my words did not make you angry, then you should use the same attitude everywhere. You see, I asked you some questions and I did not know how you will react with regards to this and I don’t know much about your attitude towards these things. Even then you did not show any anger. So, you should try to adopt the same attitude everywhere.”

Further advising on how to control anger, Huzooraa sad: “To avoid anger you should do more istighfar. […] and you should know the meaning of istighfar, not only [to repeat] ‘astaghfirullah, astaghfirullah’ as politicians or so-called clerics or mullahs use it.

“You should know: َ ُ َ َ َ ‫َ ْ َ ْ ُ ّٰ َ َ ّ ْ م ْن‬ ‫ﻧﺐ ّواﺗ ْو ُب اِﻟ ْي ِه‬ ٍ ‫استﻐ�ِ� الله رﺑِى ِ كﻞ ذ‬ “‘O Allah, forgive me all my sins and save me from anything bad that come before me in my future life’. So you should know the meaning. […]

“There was a politician in Pakistan

Khilafat: The Second Manifestation of God

“

So dear friends! since it is the Sunnatullah, from time immemorial, that God Almighty shows two Manifestations so that the two false joys of the opponents be put to an end, it is not possible now that God should relinquish His Sunnah of old.

So do not grieve over what I (peace be upon him) have said to you; nor should your hearts be distressed. For it is essential for you to witness the second Manifestation also, and its Coming is better for you because it is everlasting the continuity of which will not end till the Day of Judgement.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, The Will, p. 7)

who would always use prayer beads in his hand – just moving them – and somebody asked that ‘You just move the beads at such a speed that nobody can say any prayer on it, what do you say? What do you read?’

The politician said ‘I read Ayatul Kursi’. So the person asked ‘How can you read Ayatul Kursi in such a fast manner, so quickly?’ The reply was that ‘I just say kursi, kursi, kursi’. “‘Kursi’ means ‘chair’ – so politicians want [a] chair.”

All the Khuddam thoroughly enjoyed the joke. Huzooraa continued by saying istighfar should not be recited in such a meaningless verbal chant, rather ‘you should know the meaning of it.”

The last question was by Rashid Nasir Sahib from Richmond who asked Huzooraa how they could spread Huzoor’s guidance

about the war between Russia and Ukraine to their elected officials.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “My statement was issued at the very beginning. So, you should spread that message to your politicians, to your leaders, and tell them to avoid this war otherwise there is going to be very big havoc. The world is going to face something which will take years to re-develop it, to come back to the present position.

“And not only that […] but our future generations will also suffer. If the world war erupts then they will definitely use – if not nuclear weapons – at least chemical weapons and that will also leave a very bad effect on our future generation. So not only on us but our future generation as well.

“Tell them. The message is already there,

my statement is already there, so you can spread that message.”

In the end, Huzooraa lovingly addressed all the Khuddam of MKA USA and said: “Thank you very much, I enjoyed the company of Americans during the last two, three weeks, now this is the third week, right?”

Sadr MKA USA, Madeel Abdullah Sahib confirmed it was the third week of MKA USA mulaqats with Huzooraa and asked for Huzoor’s prayers for the Khuddam to fulfil the wishes and desires of Huzooraa.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said “InshaAllah” and conveyed his salaam after which the meeting came to a close.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

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AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022

From the Markaz

If the war escalates, half the world will be destroyed

Members of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Norway meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during the virtual meeting with Atfal from Norway

On 20 March 2022, members of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Norway, were given the opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, in a virtual mulaqat.

As the live stream started, Huzooraa conveyed his salaam to everyone present.

He then turned to Khizar Ahmad Sahib and said, “I see, Masha-Allah. So, you are now the Mohtamim Afal,” to which Khizar Sahib replied in the affirmative.

The mulaqat commenced with the recitation from the Holy Quran followed by its Urdu translation by Danish Ahmad.

Then, Faran Chaudhry had the opportunity to present a hadith. Ayan Chaudhry then read the translation of the hadith. Once Ayan had presented the hadith, Huzooraa

asked, “Are you the brother of the one who just read out the hadith?” Ayan replied in the affirmative. Then Huzooraa asked, “Are you both twins?” To this, Ayan Chaudhry said they were.

Then, Aleem Ahmad presented an extract from Al-Wasiyyat, a book by the Promised Messiahas. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa asked him if he understood what was mentioned in the extract. Aleem Ahmad smiled and replied in the affirmative but added that he only understood a little.

Huzooraa then explained: “The Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, explained that ‘When I depart [from this world], the institution of Khilafat shall be established after me, and it is Allah’s promise to me that Khilafat shall be established and Khulafa shall continue to

come one after the other at their appointed times. And this institution shall continue – as it was mentioned in the hadith – till the Day of Judgment and there shall be no hindrance in it. And those of you who are believers [mominun], those who have faith, and they are true believers […] should remain firmly attached to Khilafat and believe in Khilafat.’ This is the meaning of what you have read.”

Then, the atfal had the opportunity to present a tarana before Huzooraa.

Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa asked Khizar Sahib, Mohtamim Atfal, what the programme was. He replied that the atfal had some questions they wished to ask Huzooraa.

A young tifl, Kamran Munim, was first to ask his question. Upon seeing him,

Huzooraa asked, “Are you Munim Khawaja’s son?” Kamran Munim replied in the affirmative. He asked Huzooraa if there was any connection between the death of Hazrat Jesusas in India and the birth of the Promised Messiahas in India.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that God knew best and explained: “Fact is that the majority of Muslims lived in those parts [of the world], and people of different other religions also lived there, and other nations that had corrupted resided there too. The wisdom of Allah Almighty is that He sends Prophets to those places where more people have been corrupted. So, it means that the Muslims of those times were getting worse in that part [of the world]. The condition of the Continued on next page >>

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Muslims was such that they were forgetting Islam altogether while the propagation of Christianity was on the rise. The followers of Christianity were there in large numbers.

Hundreds of thousands of Muslims had become Christians and had forgotten their religion. That is why Allah Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas to India […]”

Faran Nasir, before asking his question, asked Huzooraa how he was. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa answered that he was well and asked him how he was. Upon looking at him, Huzooraa said, “It seems you will become a maulvi. What do you wish to become [when you are older]?” Faran Nasir replied that he wished to become a murabbi.

Huzooraa said, “This is what I said just now.

You give the impression to me of someone who would want to become a murabbi.”

Faran Nasir asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa to pray for him and further sought guidance on how he should prepare himself for Jamia. Huzooraa said: “Pray to Allah Almighty that, ‘My heart desires that I go to Jamia, [thus, O Allah,] make my heart resolute and firm upon [the intention] to go to Jamia’. Do not be doubleminded: ‘Should I go to university or to Jamia? Should I pursue worldly education or [religious] education at Jamia?’ Make a plan and stick to it and ask Allah Almighty for help and pray to Allah Almighty.”

Mikal Ahmad asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa how he could be a good boy.

Huzooraa smiled and replied, “You are a good boy.” Mikal Ahmad said that he wanted to be even better than he was.

Huzooraa asked him how old he was, to which Mikal Ahmad replied that he was 8 years old.

Huzooraa said, “Now you should offer salat and pray to Allah that ‘Make me a good boy.’ Have you finished a reading of the Holy Quran, or are you still in the midst of it?”

Mikal Ahmad said that he was still reading.

Huzooraa further said, “Say good things and study hard. To be a good child you should obey your parents. Do not quarrel with your siblings [...] Do not be angry. If you go to school, do not fight with children.

And learn about your religion as much as possible. […]”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that he should read and learn what the Holy Prophetsa taught and what the Promised Messiahas and what the Khulafa have said. Huzooraa said that he should not be stubborn. “If you remember these things, you will be a good child,” Huzooraa said.

Muaz Ahmad asked Huzooraa why the disbelievers spread the false news on the occasion of the Battle of Uhud that the Holy Prophetsa had died.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa answered that those disbelievers spread this lie “because they thought that if we spread [the false news] that the Prophetsa had died and was martyred during the battle, then Muslims would lose heart and they would cease to fight. They would accept their defeat and start following them; they would obey the disbelievers and leave Islam because [the disbelievers] had killed the Prophetsa, God forbid, which would mean that he was not a true prophet. However, this does not matter as prophets can also be killed. However, Allah the Exalted was to keep the Holy Prophetsa alive until the

“

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

They should come to an agreement and not engage in a war. I have been saying this continuously. In the beginning, when the war started, I issued a press release, stating that these people should not fight and they should come to an agreement amongst themselves, otherwise, this war would spread throughout and would ultimately become a World War. And if a World War breaks out, it would have horrific consequences. sharia was fully established; until Allah had revealed the entire Quran to him.”

Next, Yunus Yilmaz asked Huzooraa how one would worship Allah in the next life.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa explained: “After your death, in the next world, when you are in paradise, then you do not need any specific time for worship. Your every moment there will be as if you are doing ‘ibadat [worship]. So, there, you will always remember Allah the Exalted, you will always say good things, all your deeds will be good. This is why Allah the Exalted will also increase your status there in paradise.

So, there will be no specific ‘ibadat like we do here in this world. Our every moment there will be ‘ibadat. So, we will be free from that type of ‘ibadat which we do here; but our every deed and action will be such that it will please Allah the Exalted, and Allah will be happy with us.”

Ayan Ahmad asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa about his view of the current war in Ukraine as the two presidents were not agreeing with each other’s terms.

Huzooraa said: “They should come to an agreement and not engage in a war. I have been saying this continuously. In the beginning, when the war started, I issued a press release, stating that these people should not fight and they should come to an agreement amongst themselves, otherwise, this war would spread throughout and would ultimately become a World War. And if a World War breaks out, it would have horrific consequences. Therefore, the Russian president, the Ukrainian […] president, NATO and America should all act with sense and wisdom. America is deliberately trying to fan the flames. So, all of them should act with sense and wisdom, so that they may be able to save the world. If they do not [take heed], then there will be very horrific consequences. We can only exhort and pray, which is what we are doing. You should also pray that Allah the Exalted may grant them sense and wisdom, both to the President of Ukraine and Russia so that they may not escalate this war — which has already escalated quite considerably — any further. May they stop at one point, come to

a peaceful resolution and settle the conflict in a civil manner. Otherwise, there will be terrible consequences; half the world will be destroyed. May Allah have mercy.”

Yusuf Yilmaz asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa how many angels were working for Allah. Huzooraa replied: “There are quite a number of angels. We cannot count them. There are some angels who are the leaders: Gabriel and Azrael.

Such types of angels are the leaders of all the angels and quite a number of angels are working under them. For each and every person, there is an angel. If they put something good in your mind, in your heart, that means that it came through the angel to you. If there is any bad thing that comes into your mind, [it means that] it came from Satan. So, try to follow the instructions of angels. Always do good deeds and whenever it comes into your mind that these are the good things that we should do [for example] we should offer five daily prayers, we should read the Quran, we should obey our elders, we should respect our elders and parents, and we should not fight nor quarrel with our fellow students or friends, we should work hard in our studies, we should obey teachers — all these things, whenever it comes into your mind — that means these things were told to you or came into your mind through the angels. So, numerous angels are working.

We cannot count them. There is a team of angels under every big leader of angels.”

Zeeshan Sarwar asked Huzooraa how a waqif-e-nau could help the Jamaat other than by going to Jamia.

Huzooraa replied: “You can serve as a doctor. You can serve as an engineer. You can serve as a lawyer.

You can serve as a teacher. And you can study what interests you and which also benefits humanity. And even if the Jamaat does not utilise your services immediately and directly, you can still serve the Jamaat indirectly: Keep working in your field and propagate the message of Jamaat wherever you are. Preach the teaching of true Islam.

Tell people what Allah Almighty desires from us; how a good human being should live; why we should worship Allah Almighty; what are the correct [meanings of] Islamic

commandments; why Islam is the final religion and also [propagate] the virtues of Islam. So, preach good things about Islam.

This is also a service to Ahmadiyyat and Islam that you would be doing. […]”

Ayan Quddus asked Huzooraa about Gog and Magog.

Huzooraa explained: “This refers to the great powers. In some places, the Promised Messiahas has also written that it refers to Russia as well as European powers. It can be America.

It can also be the United Kingdom, and the Christian powers when the Christian government was in power [at that time].

“All those major powers that are in opposition to Islam or deviating from religion; those that are deviating from religion and their eyes are fixated on the world and they look at things from a materialistic point of view are Gog and Magog; whose eye of religion is blind and only the eye of the world works, [they are Gog and Magog]. And then because of them, the evil schemes of dajjal are also carried out. Dajjal and Gog and Magog are two or three names of the same entity.”

Farid Minhas asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa when he would visit Norway.

Huzooraa said, “Whenever Allah Almighty gives the opportunity, then I shall come.

Pray that an opportunity arises, then InshaAllah I shall come to meet you. Otherwise, you can come here to meet me.”

Faran Ahmad requested Huzooraa to explain ethics and morals and how these are a part of one’s daily activities and life.

Huzooraa explained: “[…] There are more than 700 commandments given in the Holy Quran, and Allah the Exalted has told us what the good things are and what the bad things are.

“So, all those things which Allah the Exalted has commanded us to do are the good things, are the good morals. And all those things which Allah the Exalted has asked us to refrain from, they are the bad things.

“You must understand that you claim yourself to be a Muslim. A good Muslim should be morally good. Allah the Exalted says that you have two duties: one, to

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 worship Allah the Exalted and discharge the rights of Allah the Exalted, that is, all the rights you owe with regards to Allah the Exalted. Secondly, you [should] discharge your duties towards your fellow beings.

Always think good of and do good to your fellow beings, [and] every creation of Allah the Exalted.

“There are some moral duties; you have to be good with your friends, as I have already said, worship Allah the Exalted, obey your parents, respect your elders, respect your teachers, give due attention to your studies and try to excel in your knowledge, both religious and secular. So, these are the things that make you morally good. And always see what are the bad things which can corrupt your morals.

“In this present-day world, if you are watching television shows which are not good for your education and they are deviating you from doing good things, they are morally corrupting you and they are trying to involve you in the evil things of the society, then never watch them. Never watch those programmes on the internet or on social media which can spoil your morals, which are not good for you, which let you go astray, and cause you to deviate from your fundamental religious teachings.

“You are a grown-up now, being almost 15 years old. So, you should know what the good things are, and the good morals you have to adopt in order to discharge your duties accordingly.

“Always see what Allah the Exalted likes from you. We claim ourselves to be Muslims.

So, if you are a true Muslim, you [must] discharge your duty to Allah the Exalted and you [should] discharge your duties you owe to your fellow beings, and always be good and kind to your fellow beings. Then [if you do all these], it means you are morally good. And never ever indulge yourself in bad things of the society and always try to find out the commandments given to us in the Holy Quran. We have a guideline before us and that is the Holy Quran. Now, you should try to learn the meaning of the Holy Quran. Find out all the dos and don’ts given in the Holy Quran and then follow them.”

Next, Ibrahim Ahmad asked Huzooraa what else he could do, after offering salat and reading the Holy Quran, to gain closeness to Allah.

Huzooraa said: “Supplicate in your prayer that Allah Almighty may grant you His nearness and bring you closer to Himself. Then, do good things. Do not abuse anyone, do not call anyone bad [names], do not fight with other children, obey your mother and father and show them respect. You have to treat your teachers well and you have to be kind to your classmates. Do not quarrel with them.

You should tell them that ‘I am an Ahmadi Muslim and I do good things; I do not talk nonsense, I do not watch filthy movies, I do not watch dirty shows and I do not spend my time [all day] sitting on the Internet, or iPad, or tablet, or cell phone, or sitting watching nonsense on television. I do not waste my time. I play outdoor games on the ground.’ So, these things will make you a good person; and when they make you a good person, then you will be closer to Allah Almighty.”

Danish Ahmad asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa who was considered a martyr

7 [shaheed] in the eyes of Allah. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained: “There are various people; those who do jihad [struggle] in the way of Allah are also martyrs. Sometimes, those who travel on a path, who do not fight a regular battle, but they undertake their journey for the sake of Allah, [to do] some work in the way of Allah, and if [on this journey] they die, they also become martyrs. Sometimes, someone who may die in an accident is a martyr, if their journey was in the cause of Allah.

And similarly, sometimes those who die from certain diseases are martyrs. So, there are different people [who are considered martyrs]. When one embarks on some work for the sake of Allah Almighty and for the sake of gaining His pleasure, if at that time death comes to such a one, however, it may be, he or she will be considered a martyr.”

Next, a young tifl, Danish, asked Huzooraa how Allah was created and what His colour was.

Huzooraa replied: “No one can see Allah Almighty [physically]. Allah Almighty has always existed [...] We cannot see Allah Almighty because He is a light [Noor], and a different being that is not a physical body. So, we cannot even recognise His colour. [...] Pray and ask Allah, ‘Tell me how You will speak to me’. Pray to Allah Almighty that ‘Instil Your love in my heart.’ When you begin to love Allah, you will find out for yourself what Allah Almighty looks like [...].”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa further said, “God is everywhere,” and added that when he grew older, he would understand more. “Masha-Allah! you are quite smart,” Huzooraa said.

Faran Anas asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa how he should respond when schoolchildren teased him and called him dirty for being a foreigner.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “Say [to them], ‘I am not dirty. I perform ablution five times [a day], I offer salat. I am cleaner than you because you do not even wash after going to the toilet, while I keep myself clean and pure.’

“

“If they say to you that you are a Muslim, you are a foreigner, and that’s why you are not good, and by calling you ‘unclean’ they mean to say that you are not good, then say [that this is all irrelevant] the fact of the matter is that [to be good] one should be morally good.’ “[Say] ‘My morals are good. I also worship Allah Almighty. I also speak well with you. I think good things about you people. I do not fight with you. I also study hard so that I can get good marks, so that I am able to serve the country when I grow up. So, I do my best to improve myself so that when I grow up, I can serve my country.

So, I am not unclean.

‘No matter what you think of me, I do not think badly of you because if we think badly of each other, then hatred will be created in our hearts and our slogan is ‘Love for all, hatred for none’. You may say whatever you wish to say to me, I will not harm you and I will pray for you that Allah may change your mentality.’ You can say these things to them.” Athar Ahmad asked Huzooraa if the international Jalsa Salana would take place in England this year.

Huzooraa answered: “Jalsa shall be held, Insha-Allah.

The decision as to whether it will be an international [Jalsa] and whether people [from abroad] will be allowed to attend it or not, shall be disclosed at a later time. If it is [an international Jalsa], it will be for a limited number of people. Not everyone will have open permission [to attend].”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa then asked him if he desired to come, to which he replied in the affirmative.

Qasid Ahmad asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa how long it took him to prepare his Friday sermons. Huzooraa replied: “It can take anywhere between four to twenty hours.”

Muhammad Hamza asked Huzooraa if it was permissible to paint a picture of oneself.

Huzooraa explained: “Do not have it made by a painter. If you are very fond of pictures, then take them with a camera. In paintings, there definitely

remain some or the other shortcoming that does not reflect your true expression.

No matter how good the painter, there will be some shortcomings somewhere.

Therefore, it is permissible to take pictures with a camera. Paintings should be avoided in general. Only and unless the painter is perfect in his or her craft, then you may have your own portrait created by them if you so desire but only keep it with you. Do not make one of anyone else. However, it is better to take it with a camera.”

Muhammad Umar asked Huzooraa what he could do to become the delight of his parents’ eyes.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained: “Do good things, as I have already said.

Offer your salat.” Huzooraa then asked him how old he was to which he replied by saying that he was 10 years old.

Huzooraa then said, “Offer salat, in this way you will please Allah. Do good deeds and Allah will be pleased. Speak good words, recite the Holy Quran, and Allah will be happy. Treat people with good manners, and Allah Almighty will also be pleased.

Obey your parents, and Allah Almighty will be happy, as I have said before. Pay attention to your studies. Participate in good exercises. Do not waste time watching many shows on TV and the Internet, and Allah will be pleased with you too. And the things that please Allah will also please your mother and father if they are pious people; and, in this way, you will become the delight of their eyes.

“And it is the duty of parents to pray for you so that you may be the delight of their eyes. This is the prayer that the Holy Quran has taught. Parents should pray that their children become the delight of their eyes.

So, tell your mother and father to pray for you that you may become the delight of their eyes.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa then conveyed his salaam to all the atfal and the meeting came to a close.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Offer salat, in this way you will please Allah. Do good deeds and Allah will be pleased. Speak good words, recite the Holy Quran, and Allah will be happy. Treat people with good manners, and

Allah Almighty will also be pleased. Obey your parents, and Allah Almighty will be happy, as I have said before. Pay attention to your studies. Participate in good exercises. Do not waste time watching many shows on TV and the internet, and Allah will be pleased with you too. And the things that please Allah will also please your mother and father if they are pious people; and, in this way, you will become the delight of their eyes.

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

8

Online National Tarbiyat Seminar Lajna Imaillah Ireland

This We held where journalists asked Huzooraa different questions relating to Islam and current affairs.

Shahzad Malik Ireland Correspondent

Tayyaba Mashood Sahiba, Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland, reports that on 6 March 2022, an online tarbiyat seminar was held, which focused on the importance of Khilafat and the reformation of oneself.

Due to the current pandemic and therefore the impossibility of holding any in-person events, it was decided to hold this online event to bring Lajna and Nasirat together from all over the country for a faith-inspiring seminar.

The proceedings began with the recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem and a speech on self-reformation.

After this, a clip consisting of some excerpts of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was presented.

This was followed by another poem and a presentation on the topic of “Obedience to Khilafat in our daily lives”.

The concluding address was delivered

by Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland, in which she reminded everyone about the importance of obedience to Allah and Khilafat.

The event concluded with a silent prayer led by Sadr Sahiba.

Alhamdulillah, the seminar was attended by 57% of the Lajna members and 91% of nasirat. Feedback from the event was very positive with all Lajna members and nasirat very much enjoying the proceedings and their participation. They also very much enjoyed that they were all able to come together albeit virtually.

Jalsa Yaum-eMusleh-e-Maud in Hof, Germany

During the symposium, a special message from the Dialogue of the Patriarchal Council in the Vatican was delivered.

Setsuko Thurlow Quan, a Japaneseborn woman was awarded The Ahmadiyya Muslim Prize for the Advancement of Peace for her work on humanitarian aid.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the symposium and presented the beautiful teachings of Islam on how to establish world peace. (Al Fazl, 21 April 2017, p. 9)

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering an address during the Burkina Faso Jalsa

25 March 2004: Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa completed his trip to Ghana during his visit to Africa and arrived in Burkina Faso.

Huzooraa departed from Tamale, Ghana and reached the Ahmadiyya mission house in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, where 5000 Ahmadis were eagerly waiting to welcome their beloved Imam.

During the journey to Burkino Faso, Huzooraa inspected and inaugurated the newly built mosque in Kperiga and offered prayers there.

On the border of Ghana and Burkino Faso Huzooraa inaugurated the newly-

built mosque in the Paga Jamaat.

At the border, a large number of Ahmadis were present to bid farewell to Huzooraa. Sounds of ‘as-salamu ‘alaikum’ were echoing from all sides. After leading silent prayer, Huzooraa crossed the border and entered Burkina Faso. (Al Fazl, 2 April 2004, p. 11) 25 March 2017: The 14th annual peace symposium of Jamaat-e Ahmadiyya UK was held. Members of parliament, ministers of state, diplomats, government officials and other dignitaries and guests attended.

A press conference with Huzooraa was

In his message to the representatives of the shura, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that after Khilafat, if any institution was sacred, it was Majlis-eShura.

Huzooraa also said that he would pray to Allah Almighty to keep every Ahmadi living in any city, town, or village of Pakistan in His safety and to keep them safe from the evils of the opponents.

Huzooraa said that he would continue to pray to Allah for His mercy, grace and happiness to be bestowed on them. (Al Fazl, 3 and 5 April 2004, p.

1) 26 March 2004: While Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was visiting Burkina Faso, the Prime Minister of the country, Paramanga Ernest Yonli met him.

Tahseena Nasir Hof, Germany

On 27 February 2022, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Hof, Germany, organised a virtual Jalsa Yaum-e-Musleh-e-Maud.

The event begun with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its Urdu and German translations, followed by a poem with its German translation.

After that, a video clip of some excerpts of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa was played.

This was followed by a speech delivered by the local missionary, and another poem.

The event concluded with a silent prayer.

It was attended by 17 members.

26 March 2004: The first shura (mutual consultation) meeting of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’s era was held in Rabwah, Pakistan which lasted till 28 March.

After the meeting, Huzooraa addressed a press conference in which a delegate asked about the topic and purpose of the meeting with the president.

Huzooraa said that it was a courtesy visit. Another asked about the purpose of Huzoor’s visit to West Africa to which Huzooraa said that he came to meet his people. (Al Fazl, 9 April 2004, pp. 3-4) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering the keynote address during the 2017 Peace Symposium

9

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022

eek in History 25-31 March Jamaat delegations from Ivory Coast and Mali also met and received guidance from Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.

That same evening, a children’s class took place and later a dinner was held in honour of Huzooraa to which nonAhmadi guests were invited. (Al Fazl, 17 April 2004)

Sahib Nobel Laureate were relatives.

(Al Fazl, 21 April 2017, p. 8) 31 March 1906: The Paisa Akhbar was a popular Urdu newspaper published in Lahore, British India. The paper was established in 1887. On this date, the Paisa Akhbar published the Promised Messiah’s prophecy about the upcoming heavenly signs and global sufferings:

29 March 2013: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated an Ahmadiyya ‫رھپ ےلچ آےت ہ ی� ی�ارو ززلہل آےن ےک دن‬ Mosque in Valencia, Spain. It was the [O friends, the days of earthquakes second mosque of the Ahmadiyya are nigh again] Muslim Jamaat in Spain after the Basharat Mosque in Pedro Abad. The This prophecy that was encapsulated Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurating Baitur Rahman Mosque, Valencia, Spain, 2013 construction of the whole mosque cost in a poem spread far and wide through 1.2 million euros. (Al Fazl, 19 April the circulation of this newspaper.

2013, p. 5) (Majmu‘ah Ishtiharat, Vol. 3, p. 551) 30 March 2017: Malik Saleem Latif 31 March 2004: During his visit to Sahib Advocate, President Jamaat-eBurkina Faso, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ahmadiyya Nankana Sahib, who was Vaa travelled hundreds of kilometres 70 years old, was martyred. He left on difficult unpaved roads from Dori his house at 9 am for court. On the to Kaya Region. During this visit, way, opponents of the Jamaat shot Huzooraa inaugurated Huda Mosque him due to which he was martyred. and laid the foundation stone of an Ahmadiyya mission house. He also In 1989, the house of the late martyr addressed the closing session of the was burnt down by opponents of the Jamaat. The father of the late martyr local annual Jalsa. (Al Fazl, 16 April 2004, pp. 1-5) and the mother of Dr Abdul Salam

Prime Minister of Burkina Faso with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

27 March 2004: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the closing session of the Jalsa Salana of Burkina Faso.

Messiahas, drew the attention of the Jamaat to publish and distribute pamphlets. (Al Fazl, 17 April 2015)

During the proceedings, Omar Moaz Sahib recited a poem based on the revelation of the Promised Messiahas: ّ َ ‫اِن ِ ْي َم َعك يَا َم ْس ُر ْو ُر‬

27 March 2015: A young Ahmadi Muslim businessman, Noman Ahmad Najam Sahib was martyred after being shot on 21 March 2015 in the Rafah-eAam Society neighbourhood of Karachi, Pakistan. In his Friday sermon, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned the martyr and offered his funeral prayer.

(Al Fazl, 17 April 2015)

“Surely, I am with you, O Masroor” This revelation was repeated in the poem and 13000 Ahmadi Muslims, together in one voice, repeated the revelation during the recitation of the poem. (Al Fazl, 9 April 2004, p. 4) 27 March 2015: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, referring to the small leaflets published by the Promised

28 March 2004: During Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’s visit to Burkina Faso, more than 500 different Jamaat officials from 12 regions of the country had the privilege of meeting Huzooraa.

Paisa Akhbar, 31 March 1906

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

10

How Christianity spread in Crusade of the Clapham Se

Tahmeed Ahmad Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre

Looking back at the 18th century, one cannot help but notice how rapidly Christianity was spreading throughout the world, especially in British India.

The East India Company’s rule began in 1757, but it was not until 1813 that proper missionary works were allowed in India. Any sort of missionary activity was restricted to such a degree that one would deem it banned. To understand the origin of the Christian missionary movements in India one has no choice but to look back at its founders, the Clapham Sect.

The Clapham sect or “saints” – as they were called during the Georgian era – were a close-knit group of well-connected and prosperous evangelicals. (Days that changed the world, p. 114) They are most commonly known for their campaigns against slavery, resulting in slavery bans throughout the British dominion but few know of another important campaign and aim of theirs; the

crusade in India.

As the East India Company was establishing itself in India it was careful not to give way for any Christian missionary presence. Lord Macartney put it nicely at the court of China in 1793 by saying; “The English […] have no priest or chaplain with them, as have other European nations”.

(Saints in politics: The ‘Clapham Sect’ and the growth of freedom, p. 65) Members of the deeply religious Clapham sect were abhorrent by the stance their Christian government had taken. So they took it upon themselves to change the parliament’s view, needless to say, it was a task far more difficult than anticipated.

It took many a failed attempt from the “saints” before any real progress was seen – these were at times individual, but mostly joint efforts. The first attempt was made by Charles Grant, an influential Scotsman. He had served as a member of parliament and the chairman of the East India Company in later years.

Grant had the realisation of establishing

West front of Holy Trinity parish church, Clapham Common, London

Christian missions in India during the early years of his service. His first scheme came to life in 1784, when he was inquiring about the possibility of establishing missions. He even managed to make contact with John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, but Mr Wesley ultimately had no faith in Grant’s methods. (Saints in Politics, p. 69) Grant did not give up on his idea of having missions under the sanction of the civil government. He began writing to like-minded individuals back in England, hoping for support, among whom he was most interested in Rev Charles Simeon and William Wilberforce. David Brown was a newly arrived Calcutta chaplain who was helping Grant with his “Proposal for Establishing a Protestant Mission in Bengal”.

(Chaplains of the East India Company, 1601– 1858, p 109) Grant writes: “Our hopes are particularly fixed on Mr Wilberforce […] It is to his influence alone that we hope the minister will regard a project, and ask for it the countenance of majesty.” (Memoirs of Simeon, p79) Although Grant’s initial efforts in India had failed to bear fruits, he gained something far more precious, the longlasting friendship of William Wilberforce.

Grant returned to England after spending eight years in India, making acquaintances with the likes of Henry Thornton and even moving to Clapham. (Saints in Politics, p.

70) The first real opportunity came in 1793 with the renewal of the East India Company’s charter. Charles Grant began working with Zachary Macaulay and James Stephen, both influential statesmen and anti-slavery activists, writing the script Wilberforce was going to present to the parliament.

Wilberforce archived great success, to begin with however, the directors of the East India Company were quick to put a stop to it, crushing any hopes the Clapham saint might have had. Wilberforce writes records in his journals: “The East India directors and proprietors have triumphed […] all my clauses were last night struck out on the third reading of the bill, and […] twenty millions of people […] are left […] to the providential protection of Brama.” (Life of Wilberforce, p. 27) (Tuesday 28 May 1793): “Mr Wilberforce’s cause for sending missionaries to India was the next objected to. It was opposed by Mr Hussey, Mr Dundas, Mr Fox, and the Master of the Roll.

Mr Wilberforce withdrew his motion. The whole of the bill was at length gone through with, and passed.”

The Clapham might have lost the battle, but in their eyes, the war was far from over.

The charter of 1793 had been an experiment and allowed them to learn from their mistakes. It had become clear that a task of such a calibre required more manpower.

As the rest of Clapham had begun focusing on Africa, namely Sierra Leone, of which Zachary Macaulay was the governor, Rev Charles Simeon was working on other plans.

It was in 1796 that Simeon, now a member of the Eclectic Society, proposed a discussion between the Eclectics that would lead to the foundation of the Church Mission Society. The question was: “With what propriety, and in what mode, can a mission be attempted to the heathen from the Established Church?” (Memoirs of Simeon, p. 111) As many from the Clapham sect were members of the Eclectic Society, it would not be wrong to say that they inspired and motivated each other. It wasn’t long before Simeon brought the same discussion to his other friends in Clapham. Regular mention of discussion on the subject is found in the journals of Wilberforce.

Foundation of the Church Mission Society Discussions continued and no real action was taken until 12 April 1799 at the Eclectic Society. The foundation for a new missionary society was held in the very same room that the London Missionary Society had been founded four years earlier. The only representatives of Clapham at this meeting were Charles Elliott and John Venn.

Wilberforce was requested to be president, but he declined the request, instead, he and Charles Grant were made vice-presidents. Henry Thornton was the treasurer and John Venn was appointed chairman of the committee. Rev Charles Simeon and Zachary Macaulay would not be part of the committee because of various reasons. The society was first named “Society for Mission to Africa and the East” and then later named “Church Mission Society”.

With the foundation of the Church Mission Society, preparations once again went underway for the 1813 charter.

Wilberforce, Grant and Venn met with the archbishop, presenting their plans. The archbishop had originally been avoiding them for more than a year, but finally took up his courage to face them. He too eventually promised to support them. (Early history of C.M.S, p. 58) Henry Martyn (not Henry Martyn Clark), known as “Simeon’s spiritual son” became the first volunteer and departed for India. Meanwhile, Clapham was making other preparations. Wilberforce and Grant made sure that John Shore was appointed as the Governor-General of India and later the next year Charles Grant was elected as Director of the East India Company.

Grant used his new position to make sure to appoint suitable men as chaplains, who in return helped pave the way for Christianity in India. One, in particular, was Claudius Buchanan, who helped stimulate greater

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022

British India: ect interest among the English. He returned to England in 1808 to join his brethren in their “crusade”.

Wilberforce showed no sign of slowing down either in his efforts to propagate the Christian faith. He helped establish the bible society or what is better known as “British and Foreign Bible Society” in March 1804.

An account from his diary during the early days of the formation reads: “Hughes, Reyner and Grant breakfast with me, on Bible Society formation.” (Diary belonging to Wilberforce, 5 April) In 1812 Wilberforce began to move far more aggressively, he interviewed the prime minister, stirred up the clergy and composed an article for the Christian Observer. (Life of Wilberforce IV, pp. 10-16). He was not fighting alone as Macaulay, Grant and the rest of Clapham were all busy at work.

The rest of 1812 was filled with various assemblies and meetings through their Missionary Society, attracting members of parliament and other esteemed gentlemen.

As the dates for the charter loomed closer, the stage was set for Wilberforce and Clapham to stand their ground in the face of the East India Company.

Much could be said on the proceedings of the parliament and the debates that

Blue plaque erected in 1984 by Greater London Council at Holy Trinity Church, Clapham Common, London

took place later on. However, such lengthy discussions might not suit an article of this size. In summary, it became clear over the course of time that the majority was still siding with the East India Company, making the Saints rely more than ever on the same methods as used during their anti-slavery campaigns.

They used the interviews of Wilberforce, public opinion and petitions to push their

11 Christian campaign. Letters were sent all over England, asking them to stand alongside them and sign petitions in their cause. It is against no one’s understanding that names like Wilberforce and Henry Thornton had a great effect on the receivers of these letters. Gaining more than half a million signatures and 837 petitions. (Saints in Politics, pp. 84-92) The Leeds Mercury (Saturday 15 May 1813) reported: “The General petition, from the inhabitants of Halifax and its neighbourhood, praying that in the new Charter of the East India Company provision, may be made for the legal protection and tolerance, of Christian Teachers of every denomination, so long as they as they are peaceable and orderly, and comprising other objects connected with the free addition of the Christian religion into our East India Empire.”

Saunders’s News-Letter (Wednesday 24 February 1813) wrote: “House of Commons, Feb 19.

“Mr Wilberforce presented a Petition from the Scots Society for the propagation of the Gospel in the East, under any change in the Company’s Charter.”

The tides were turning in favour of the Clapham in the last days of the debate.

The final nail in the coffin for the British East India Company would be the debate on 22 June 1813. All the representatives from Clapham would gather, but the one to outshine them all would be William Wilberforce who gave, arguably, one of the greatest speeches of his career.

Success to preach Christianity in India They had done it again and opened the door to the Christian faith in India. The Charter

Bill was read out on several occasions in the coming days; however, the point of discussing was most of the time the 13th resolution of the bill.

Many company officials began opposing it, but it was too little and too late, this time around, the Clapham sect had become victorious.

Time flew by and thanks to the efforts of Wilberforce and his friends, Christianity began rapidly spreading throughout India. The charter taking place in 1833 would come to further expand Christian influence in India. This success gained by the missionaries in India helped devolve and increase the nation’s interest in religion, proof of which can be found in the various newspapers at the time.

Friend of India and Statesman (11 May 1871) reported: “The Calcutta Missionary Conference has arranged to take a very detailed census of protestant Christians and Christian agencies at the end of next year, in order to supplement the necessarily meagre information which will be supplied by the official enumeration. It will not be surprising if the number of 350,000 is considerably exceeded. In 1852 the number was about 113,000 in India and Ceylon. In 1862 this number was nearly doubled rising to 154,000 in India and Ceylon, and to 214,000 in India, Ceylon and Burma.”

Cheltenham Mercury (21 March 1874) wrote: “If the present rate of increase was continued, by the year 2001 at least 135,000,000 of people would be converted.”

Widnes Examiner (1 April 1893) said: “[…] the transformation from heathen to Christian will be affected in India in less than half the time that separates Christ from Constantine.”

Edinburgh Evening News (23 May 1905) reported: “As to the quantity of conversions in India, we have Government census report, which shows that the number of native Christians rose from 1 ¼ million in 1872 to 2-3 million in 1901. As to the quality of these converts there is abundant evidence to numerous instances showing the reality and tenacity of their faith and the general rise in the standard of morality which is characteristic of the native Christian community.”

The Messiah who broke the cross It was in the face of such mighty waves that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas the Promised Messiah and Mahdi fought back through the pen. It did not take too long before he came face-to-face with the now mighty Clapham sect in the form of the Christ Mission Society. The most famous encounter would be The Holy War, a 15day debate between Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas and Dr Henry Martyn Clark.

However, mentioning just one debate out of the countless debates, leaflets, articles, books and the open challenges produced by the Promised Messiahas is far from doing any justice to the part he played in bringing the Christian crusade to its knees.

Nevertheless, I am of the opinion that the vital and prominent role of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, the defender of Islam is deserving of an article of its own, perhaps some other time.

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

12

PAAMA UK members reflect on their first-ever virtual mulaqat with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V

Members of the UK’s Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association (PAAMA UK) in Baitul Futuh Mosque, London, during their virtual mulaqat with Huzooraa

Secretary Khidmat-e-Khalq PAAMA, UK

On 27 February 2022, members of the UK’s Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association (PAAMA UK) – men and women – met with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, through a virtual meeting. Below are some impressions of the participants: Tommy Kallon Sahib, President PAAMA UK, said: “By the grace of Allah, PAAMA UK had our first ever mulaqat with Huzooraa. As can be imagined, leading up to the event we were very apprehensive that all the planning and preparation we had done should fall into place and the event should run smoothly. I could sense that everyone, particularly my humble self, was very tense, especially the few minutes just before Huzoor’s arrival in the studio in Islamabad. I can honestly say that within just a few moments of his arrival and even before the session formally started with tilawat, Huzooraa was virtually able to put everyone at ease with his kindness, graciousness and especially humour.

Everyone I spoke to afterwards pretty much said the same. Huzooraa seemed to be especially beaming and jovial, and simply radiated joy, love and affection. […]

“Normally, after an event especially one with the august presence of Huzoor-e-Aqdas, may Allah be his helper, the overriding sentiment is relief more than anything else when it is all done but this mulaqat, from my perspective, went so much better than I had anticipated and all the attendees who travelled from as far afield as Scotland and

the South West went back home with our hearts aglow and full of gratitude to Allah the Almighty and to the beloved Huzooraa.

The only wish we had at the end was that Huzooraa had more time so that the mulaqat could have lasted longer and we could enjoy the company and kindness of our beloved Huzooraa a bit longer.

“For many of us this was the first time we were meeting face to face after more than two years, so again this mulaqat was blessed for us in another way that the magnetism of Khilafat brought the PAAMA family together for the first time again after so long. Seeing your brethren again after a long separation and being blessed with the eminent presence of Huzooraa virtually amongst us made it a truly memorable and remarkable day and one that would be etched on our minds forever.

“It remains our humble and earnest prayer that Allah continuously bestows his infinite and exceptional grace, mercy, protection and blessings upon our beloved Huzooraa.”

Ahmed Owusu Konadu Sahib, Vice President PAAMA UK, said: “Due to Covid-19, we normally don’t drive for longer distances. But for the historic PAAMA UK mulaqat with beloved Huzooraa, the whole family were excited because due to the pandemic, we haven’t had mulaqat for two years now. […] As always, it was a very blessed session with beloved Huzooraa but what I enjoyed most was the very insightful and wonderful answers given by beloved Huzooraa, which opened another dimension that I didn’t even know before.

Also, throughout beloved Huzooraa relaxed

all the nerves with his graceful humour. May Allah continue to bless our beloved spiritual father and be his Helper always and enable me and my family to be among the first to listen and obey the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa always. Allahumma Amin.”

Nooruddeen Jahangeer Khan Sahib, Vice President PAAMA UK, said: “By the grace of Allah, I had the blessed opportunity to participate in the firstever PAAMA UK mulaqat with beloved Huzooraa.

“Being part of the organising team, it is natural that I felt nervous in the build-up to the event, in hope that we didn’t encounter any major issues during the programme. […]

“Seeing beloved Huzooraa brought back lots of loving memories for me personally, as it feels like an eternity since I last had a chance to be in the presence of His Holiness and speak to him.

“During this mulaqat, one overriding feeling I had was that His Holiness was very much at ease and happy to see the African brothers and sisters. I noticed how he was even repeating some of the words during the taranas in praise of the Holy Prophetsa.

The loving way in which he answered the questions was a joy to behold and I could hear the entire room enjoy the answers.

“All of this brought a sense of ease to me and removed the worries I had before the mulaqat began.

“I am so grateful to have had this experience and it reinvigorates one in their passion to continue serving Khilafat and acting upon the instructions of our beloved

Huzooraa.”

Hakeem Mensah Sahib, General Secretary PAAMA UK, said: “My impression is that this mulaqat enabled us to once again, celebrate our unity, sisterhood and brotherhood as PAAMA family through Khilafat and that is something we shouldn’t take for granted. […]

“When we have one to one mulaqat with Huzooraa, we enjoy the blessing of the physical presence with him; however, the virtual mulaqat offers the blessing of spending a longer time with Huzooraa.”

Amatul Mujeeb Owusu-Konadu Sahiba said: “I really enjoyed the mulaqat with beloved Huzooraa, even though virtual I felt a strong connection with Huzooraa and my heart was filled with emotions and joy praying at the same time for the grace of Allah.”

Ganiyat Sodique Sahiba commented: “It was an interesting mulaqat and I felt so blessed to be in the presence of our beloved Huzooraa. It was a very engaging programme and the time went so fast, I was hoping to have more of his presence. Being in Huzoor’s presence is something I love and wish to have more of such events. Likewise based on some of the answers from beloved Huzooraa, I picked a lot of things that I can go home and reflect on with my family, especially with my spouse. I hope to have more of these sessions and learn more from our beloved Huzooraa, more knowledge that can help me navigate my personal life and that of my family.”

Hiera Adams Sahiba said: “I think Huzoor’s remarks were amazing and inspiring.”

Faiza Arjaoui Sahiba said: “The event was absolutely amazing and it was so nice to see everybody and of course being in Huzoor’s presence was outstanding and it seems like Huzooraa enjoyed himself as well and enjoyed the questions. It was very relaxing, really informal and I am so happy to be here. Jazakallah to the organisers, it was amazing.”

Abida Quansah Sahiba said: “I really enjoyed the event. It was informative and engaging. I liked the humorous elements of Huzoor’s talking, he was really able to keep us glued to his answers. They were very concise but yet elaborative.”

Suhailah Yanful Sahiba said: “I thought the event was informative and engaging, and Huzooraa was able to really create a casual and relaxed atmosphere for us all.”

Amtul Hafeez Mensah Sahiba said: “I found this mulaqat very enriching and Huzooraa provided great insight for numerous topics and I felt like it was conveyed perfectly with humorous elements.”

Asifa Jamil Nabulya Sahiba said: “It was really interesting mulaqat and I felt really honoured to have our beloved Huzooraa answering our questions and talking to us.”

Sheenaz Sahiba said: “I felt it was a very emotional event seeing our beloved Huzooraa and his indepth answers were very much needed.

It was lovely to see all my PAAMA sisters again.”

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AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022

100 Years Ago...

Spreading Ahmadiyyat in Gold Coast (Ghana) and journey to Nigeria Al Fazl, 20 March 1922

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)

The administrative structure of Gold Coast Jamaat The following administrative structure has been formed in the Gold Coast Jamaat, (may God Almighty bless it and may it prosper): Saltpond Markaz [Center]: Library, reading room, Ahmadiyya Madrasa [school], general supervision and protection, Darul tabligh rights and superintendent mission, Mr Gabriel Arthur.

Local Tabligh: Ismail Konsi (he took bai‘at at the annual convention) is the Nambardar and the missionary of Saltpond is Muhammad Yahya.

In-charge Darul Tabligh: Maulvi Muhammad Ishaq, the head missionary of Gold Coast who helps other missionaries, i.e. Daud, Yaqub, Yusuf, Musa, Adam, Hassan and Isa. General Management and Finance: Mehdi is the chief and the secretary, Mr Binyamin Kelson.

To facilitate the management, the Gold Coast Jamaat has been divided into four circles: 1. Accrafol ​​Circle: This includes the formally established Ahmadiyya Anjumans of Accrafol, Mando, Abbasa, Eshiem, Dassi Kuma, Bedun, Essien, Quanta, Ebora, Adukrom, Ibukota and Mankiram.

2. Saraha Circle: This includes the formally established Ahmadiyya Anjumans of Saraha, Swedru, Abuakwa, Kumkaraam, Korncikaram, Nedalbhes, Abdum, Rasheem, Afransi and Techiman.

3. Senya Circle: This includes two formally established Anjumans of Senya Beraku and Patan.

4. Secondi Circle: This includes the jamaats of Abduni and Prampram.

The latter two circles joined the Ahmadiyya Jamaat during my recent [tabligh] tour.

Saltpond to Accra The journey by sea gives me a lot of pain and the moment I see the sea I get nausea. I left for Nigeria on the coastal ship “Sir George” to attend the “Ahmadiyya Conference”.

A boat takes you from the shore to the ship, and it has to pass through high tides of water. The waves of the sea not only upset the boat like a stubborn horse but also play with the passenger with a splash of salty white water.

The crew, immediately seeing the green

turban, lower the ladder of the ship and carried the half-dead Nayyar on board.

Captain Johnson (a noble Englishman), Mr Ben Warden (an engineer in Saltpond, who introduced himself by mentioning the book [The Philosophy of the] Teachings of Islam, that Captain Turner had given him (and which was given to the Captain by this humble one), other English travellers and chief officers began to show hospitality.

Mr Johnson got kheer [rice pudding] cooked [for me]. He sat down with me and helped me eat and thus I regained complete consciousness. Then I conveyed the message of the Promised Messiahas to the honourable host. As soon as the ship started moving at night, my health deteriorated again. After spending two days expressing regret on the way, I reached the capital of the Gold Coast on 9 December [1921].

Engagements in Accra I stayed in Accra from 9 to 14 December [1921]. On the question of reopening the Accra Mosque, which is now under consideration of the Gold Coast government by my efforts, I met with Muslim leaders and the authorities. I am grateful to God that my efforts were fruitful and the mosque will open soon, insha-Allah.

I met the deputy inspector general of Police, the inspector general of police, the director of the department of education, the district commissioner and other civil officials who treated me with special respect this time. I was surprised how each of the said people remembered my name correctly, and unlike in England, they did not call me Mr Nagar or Mr Nazar, but in fact, called me Reverend Nayyar very clearly. I thank Allah the Almighty that the misunderstandings with the authorities have been resolved.

However, feeling the pain I have suffered from the said hands, I would say:

‫ڑپ� منص رتے ی‬ ‫رھتپ ی‬ ‫ا� پ ی�ار رپ‬ ‫بج رم ےئگ وت آےئ امہرے زمار رپ‬

“May stones befall on this kind of love of yours, as you [did not come to me while I was alive and] visited my shrine after I passed away.”

In Accra, Indian friends were as loving as ever and halwa, puri, pakoras, milk, etc., were served that made [me] recall India in Africa.

Imam Fota converted to Islam Ahmadiyyat What makes me especially happy in Accra is that I invited the Muslim chiefs to a tea party and presented the teachings of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and the claims of the Holy Messiahas. I read out the sayings of the Promised Messiahas from Khutba Ilhamiyah

The distance from Ghana to Nigeria amounts to 969 miles

[The Revealed Sermon] and Al-Istifta (An Enquiry). After hearing that, Imam Ahmad Fota, a native of Senegal and a teacher of the order of Tijaniyyah and a scholar of Islamic law, exclaimed in front of all the people: “I sincerely believe in these sayings [of the Promised Messiahas].”

All praise belongs to Allah Who made it all possible. I am very happy with the conversion of the said scholar. May Allah give him perseverance. Amin summa Amin.

One to 1000 During my stay in Accra, by the grace of God Almighty, a Syrian apostate who had become a Christian due to his unfamiliarity with religion converted to Islam and became a sincere Muslim. Moreover, the main chief came to meet me after a great search. The said chief is the head of the third circle, [i.e.

Senya Circle]. Coincidently, he had come to Accra as well. He expressed his sincerity and since I had instructed him to conduct the census of the respective jamaat, he said that the number of the constituency number three is about 1000. Until then, I had counted only Isa as one person, but he increased from one to 1000, and by the grace of God, the number of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat Gold Coast is now between five and six thousand.

Discourse with His Excellency, the Governor Before boarding the ship on 14 December [1921], I met with the Honourable Colonel Secretary and His Excellency Brigadier General FG [Sir Frederick Gordon] Guggisberg, the Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Gold Coast, and presented him the gift of [The Philosophy of the] Teachings of Islam and [The] Review of Religions. The Governor introduced me

to Lady Guggisberg and said: “Muslim Missioner”. During the conversation, he said to me, “Do you want to convert me?” I said, “Yes sir, I do.”

Ship Alpine From the seashore to the ship, the Saltpond endeavour was experienced again on a less difficult scale. Thereafter, I boarded the same ship that brought me to Africa from England ten months ago. The purser of the ship gave me the best room, but I was destined to get in trouble and [my destiny] was not changed by a first-class status room, a three passengers’ room for one man, and the instructions to the stewardess for special care (for which I thank the officers of the ship).

Glory be to God, there was no turbulence in the sea, the ship was one of the best ships, and the accommodation was one of the best accommodations, but I was still sick. Only Allah the Almighty could understand that secret and I believed that it was some divine providence. I light-heartedly compared my state to labour pains and said to myself that after setting foot on land, I would again forget about all of that and prepare for a new journey.

Be that as it may, I boarded the ship and left for Nigeria. Since one of my companions was also the governor of Nigeria, I called the private secretary to the governor and conveyed to him some wise words.

After 17 weeks, I returned to the capital of Nigeria on 15 December [1921]. The chief imam and the friends with their cars were present to welcome me. All praise belongs to Allah Who made it all possible.

From, Abdur Rahim Nayyar (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 20 March 1922 issue of Al Fazl)

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

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Companions of the Promised Messiah and their love for the Holy Prophet In light of their dreams and visions Jazib Mehmood Student, Jamia Ahmadiyya Ghana

As pious pioneer Ahmadi Muslims, the companions of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas were true to their pledge of allegiance to the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas, and are therefore shining examples of the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas and a source of great inspiration.

A tree is recognised by its fruit. If the Promised Messiahas was not truthful in his claim, these pious personalities – some of whom even had many disciples themselves before bai‘at to Hazrat Ahmadas – did not need to accept him, let alone lay down their lives for him.

Through the Promised Messiahas the love of these pioneering Ahmadis for the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa grew immensely. It is therefore not surprising that Allah Almighty accepted this love and granted them the honour of spending time in the presence of the Holy Prophetsa in their dreams and visions.

It should also be clear that not all conversations and meetings are made public to the world. But as a way of showing gratitude to Allah Almighty for His blessings, and to inspire a similar change in the generations that followed, these companions related some instances of their meetings.

Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra – Khalifatul Masih I He was the closest companion of the Promised Messiahas, and as such often met and conversed with the Holy Prophetsa. He stated that before he accepted the Promised Messiahas he would often see the Holy Prophetsa in his dreams. However, after accepting him, he began to meet the Holy Prophetsa even whilst awake. This was only due to accepting the Imam of the Age. (Hayat-e-Nur, p. 194)

He states a dream he had in these words: “I saw the Holy Prophetsa in a dream. He had carried me on his back like one carries a water skin. He then whispered in my ear that, ‘You are our beloved.’” (Hayat-e-Nur, pp.

519–520)

Another dream he recalled was: “I once dreamed that in front of this temple there was a shop selling flour, salt, oil and so on. There, on a wooden stool, sat the Holy Prophetsa. When I passed by, he said, ‘Take flour from us.’ So, he weighed the flour on a wooden scale that was apparently enough to feed a man. I took it in my lap.

When he had put the flour in my lap, he struck the scales hard on the pole so that all

The Promised Messiahas with his companionsra

the remaining flour would also fall on my lap.

“When I had taken the flour in my lap, I asked the Holy Prophetsa if he had told Hazrat Abu Hurairah[ra] something that made him remember his ahadith. He replied, ‘Yes.’ I said, ‘Tell me too so that I may remember your ahadith.’ He said, ‘We can whisper it in your ear.’

“I leaned forward and he had just put his mouth to my ear when [in the dream], Khalifa Nuruddin[ra] [a companion of the Promised Messiahas] pressed my foot very strongly and said that it was time for prayer.

I came to understand that obeying the ahadith was the only way to memorise the ahadith.” (Miraqatul Yaqeen Fi Hayat-e-Nuruddin, p. 173)

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra – Khalifatul Masih II His love for the Holy Prophetsa knew no bounds. He once stated that “I have seen the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas dozens of times. They often relate the reality of a matter to me and that is exactly how it transpires.” (Al Fazl, 26 September 1933, p. 7; Roya-o-Kushoof Syenda Mahmud, p. 108) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra relates another dream:

“It was only a few days ago that the Holy Prophetsa appeared to me in a dream and stated, ‘We see your difficulties and can remove them. However, [you will have to] forbear patiently for one or two (or [Huzoorsa] said two or three) years.’”

(Paigham-e-Sulh Kay Chand Ilzamat Ki Tardeed, Anwar-ul-Uloom, Vol. 3, p. 398; Roya-o-Kushoof Syenda Mahmud, pp. 44–45)

Relating another dream, he writes: “I saw in my vision that a chair had been laid in this field and someone said that the Holy Prophetsa was coming. Just then, I saw the Holy Prophetsa emerging from one side.

When I looked to the other side, I saw the Promised Messiahas also coming and both were facing the chair.

“In my dream, I was terrified that such a terrible mistake had been made; the Holy Prophetsa was coming and the Promised Messiahas was also coming, but there was only one chair. I would have got up and ran to get another chair, and no one else came up with the idea. At that moment, my heart began pounding with fear and as they got closer, my anxiety increased until both came close to the chair.

“At that time it occurred to me that now the Promised Messiahas may retreat, but the Promised Messiahas did not retreat and the Holy Prophetsa also moved forward. At that moment I knew that my heart would stop beating [with trepidation] but after a while,

I saw that both of them tried to sit on the chair with their bodies slightly crooked.

Then their torsos began to fuse with each other, and when they sat down on the chair, not two but one being appeared.” (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 8, pp. 527–528, Roya-o-Kushoof Syenda Mahmud, pp. 216–217)

Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasool Rajekira He was a very spiritual man and his memoir, Hayat-e-Qudsi, relates his spiritual experiences throughout his life. Even before accepting the Promised Messiahas he had met the Holy Prophetsa at least three times.

In Hayat-e-Qudsi he writes of at least eight instances where he met the Holy Prophetsa.

He writes: “I was in Qadian in those days when I saw a dream. Someone was saying that the Holy Prophetsa had come to Qadian. I asked him, ‘Where then is our Imam, the Promised Messiah[as]?’ He replied that he had gone to Arabia.

“I then inquired from the person, ‘Where is the Holy Prophetsa?’ The person, who was in fact an angel, took me with him to the clinic of Hazrat Maulvi Nuruddin Sahib Khalifatul Masih Ira, where I looked in and found the Holy Prophetsa seated on a mat. He resembled Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I, Maulana Nuruddin Sahibra. At the time a

15

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 the Promised Messiahas. Give her the gold necklace around your neck.” Per this divine instruction, she sent her necklace to Hazrat Amma Janas the next day. (Hazrat Syed Waliullah Shah Sahibra, p. 99)

Hazrat Syed Waliullah Shahra His father was Hazrat Syed Abdul Sattar Shah Sahibra. He also wrote a detailed commentary of Sahih al-Bukhari. He was merely seven or eight years old when he had this dream: “I saw in a dream that someone came to the house and informed [us] that the Holy Prophetsa is coming. Therefore, we rushed outside to receive him. I saw that at the eastern wall of the clinic, the Holy Prophetsa was seated on a bull cart.

“As far as I can remember, he was wearing a green turban and he had a grand face. His colour was also light brown. His beard was also white, and the sun was out.

He said to me, ‘I have come to teach you the Holy Quran.’” (Hazrat Dr Syed Abdul-Sattar Shah Sahibra, p. 8)

Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Hussainra

Masjid-e-Nabawi, this mosque was built by the Holy Prophetsa and his Companionsra in the city of Medina. Upon the Holy Prophet’ssa arrival in Medina, after migrating from Mecca, the first task was the construction of this mosque

companion of the Holy Prophetsa was seated near him who resembled Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahibra.

“When this humble one saw the Holy Prophetsa, he raised the slogan, ‘Ya Rasulullah! Ya Rasulullah! [O Prophet of Allah! O Prophet of Allah!],’ out of great emotional love and sat near Huzoorra. At the command of the Holy Prophetsa, his companion wrote something on a piece of paper and handed it to me. When I took the paper and read it, I saw that it was from the Holy Prophetsa and it read, ‘You should recite durood [salutations on the Holy Prophetsa].’

After this, I woke up.” (Hayat-e-Qudsi, Part II, p. 12)

He relates another dream in the following words: “Once I saw in a dream the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas and this humble one standing [together]. At that time, the Holy Prophetsa was facing East and the Promised Messiahas was facing West.

And this humble one stood facing the North from the two holy figures facing the South and felt great pride at his good fortune and said, with great happiness, ‘How lucky and fortunate are we that we have found the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas!’

“After [stating] this, the moment I turned

to these holy personages, I found that the Holy Prophet’ssa visage was aflame like the sun and the Promised Messiah’sas visage was shining like the moon and the Promised Messiah’sas countenance was glowing from reflecting the light of the Holy Prophet’ssa countenance. (Hayat-e-Qudsi, Part 4, pp. 184–185)

Hazrat Saeeda Begumra She was a companion of the Promised Messiahas, the spouse of Hazrat Syed Abdul Sattar Shahra who was also a devote companion of the Promised Messiahas.

She was also the maternal grandmother of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. A dream of hers was related by her husband, Hazrat Syed Abdul-Sattar Shahra.

“One day my wife related to me that she had a dream in which she saw the Holy Prophetsa. He raised his middle and index finger and stated, ‘The Messiah and I are one.’” (Hazrat Dr Syed Abdul-Sattar Shah Sahibra, p. 29)

Her son, Hazrat Syed Waliullah Shah Sahibra also relates another dream she had in which she saw the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas and Hazrat Amma Janra [the blessed wife of the Promised Messiahas].

The Holy Prophetsa pointed to Hazrat Amma Janra and said, “This is the wife of

He was one of the last companions of the Promised Messiahas still alive during the time of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. He narrates his dream in his memoir in these words: “I was standing in a field and a rider was coming on a huge horse that was stunningly beautiful and red. The Promised Messiahas and Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra were following this horse on foot. The horse came and stood in front of me.

“The Holy Prophetsa was riding on this horse. I do not think there is a horse as big and beautiful like that one in this world. The Holy Prophetsa had a gold and silver crown on his head and was wearing a very striking garment. The horse was so powerful that the Holy Prophetsa held it tightly with both hands and reined the horse.

“I was so excited to see this scene that I exclaimed, ‘O Noble Master[sa], this crown must get hot when the sun shines on it. If you attach wings to me, I will fly and come between the sun and the moon, and with my wings, I will bring air to the Holy Prophetsa and provide shade.’

“I had barely said this that my arms became big wings and I made a slight gesture with my feet and flew into the air exactly where I wished. When the wind from my wings reached him, he raised his head and looked at me. I was also looking at his countenance.

“His face was very handsome and he was looking at me and smiling as if expressing happiness. At that time, I was determined that wherever this horse will go, I will fly over it with them and I will keep my shadow on them and I will deliver cool air besides providing shade from the wings. My heart was so happy after doing this service that my eyes opened at the same time.” (Meri Yadain, p. 239)

Hazrat Syed Ahmad Noor Kabulira Originally from Kabul, Afghanistan, he had the honour of staying in close quarters to the Promised Messiahas for an extended period and of being a student of Hazrat Sahibzada Abdul Latifra Shaheed as well. He

relates many accounts of meeting the Holy Prophetsa in his dreams. He writes: “Once I saw that I was in a room and the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas were waiting in it for salat. After a short while, I arrived. I asked them, ‘Is it time for prayer?’ They both replied, ‘We were just waiting for you; call the Azan [call for prayer].’ So I became their muezzin [caller to prayer] and called the Azan. Then, I awoke.” (The Martyr, p. 64) He also relates another dream he had: “I saw that I was tightly hugging the Holy Prophetsa. Sometimes I would see that I am embracing the Holy Prophetsa and other times I felt it was the Promised Messiahas.

“A few bottles of honey were brought to the Holy Prophetsa and he started to open them. I offered to open them for him but the Holy Prophetsa said that he would open them. So, the Holy Prophetsa opened them and drank some honey, and I drank some of it as well. My eyes then opened after tasting its sweetness.” (Ibid.)

Dreams specifically testifying to the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas As one might observe from the various dreams presented above, there are many instances in these dreams where one sees the close relationship of the Promised Messiahas and the Holy Prophetsa.

While this points to the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas, there are also specific dreams on the companions in which the Holy Prophetsa told them of the truthful claim of the Promised Messiahas.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has previously presented many examples of such dreams.

Some examples are presented below.

Hazrat Mian Abdul Rasheedra narrates, “I saw the Holy Prophetsa in a dream that Huzoor[sa] was lying on a bed and was very ill. The Promised Messiahas was standing beside him like one who visits a sick person.

The Holy Prophetsa, leaning on his shoulder, got up from the bed.

“After this, the Holy Prophetsa – in his condition – started giving a lecture about the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas.

Thereafter, I saw in the dream that the Holy Prophetsa has recovered completely and his countenance is glowing. From this, I deduced that now Islam will be revived through Hazrat Sahib (i.e. the Promised Messiahas).” (Register Rawayat Sahaba Hazrat Masih-e-Maudas, Register No. 11, p. 28; Khutbat-eMasroor Vol. 10, p. 797)

Hazrat Hafiz Ibrahimra narrates that he once saw the Holy Prophetsa coming to him in a dream. He asked the Holy Prophetsa, “Huzoor! Mirza Sahib[as] has claimed to be the Messiah and Mahdi of this time – is he true in his claim?” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “Yes, he is true.” I said, “Huzoor!

Please, swear it.” He said, “I do not need to swear. I am the Amin [trustee] in the heavens and the earth.” (Register Rawayat Sahaba Hazrat Masih-e-Maudas, Register No. 11, p. 28; Khutbate-Masroor Vol. 9, p. 169)

Before swearing allegiance to the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Sardar Karam Dad Khanra saw in a vision that the Holy Prophetsa and Promised Messiahas were walking together and Hazrat Karam Dad Continued on next page >>

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

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100 It was a curious sight, seeing the Years rich and poor all sleep on the floor: Ago... Jalsa Salana Qadian The Review of Religions [English], March, April & May, 1922 Hazrat Chaudhry Ali Mohammadra BA BT (1892-1979)

The annual gathering of the Ahmadiyya Community came off in the last week of December 1921. The guests began to pour in as early as 15 December [1921]. This year the number of guests received was estimated to be more than 7000. It is gratifying to note that the number increases every year by leaps and bounds. The site for lectures was specially prepared this year with a view to afford more accommodation, but as usual, it proved again insufficient for the increased numbers. Not a small fraction of the number of the esteemed guests enjoyed high social standing, but it was really a very curious sight to see high and low, rich and poor, all sleep on the floors of the school and the hostel rooms which were only cushioned with straw. It was not the physical comfort which mattered and weighed so much with these guests, rather they felt an appetite for spiritual food which was so profusely served this year by the blessed leader of the Ahmadiyya Community.

Several lectures were delivered on topics of vital importance, but the lecture which far surpassed others as regards knowledge imparted and benefit derived was that of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] who spoke for about 5 hours on the first day, for 4 and half hours on the 2nd day and for 6 and half hours on the 3rd day, that is, for 16 hours on the same subject. The introductory remarks by the worthy speaker himself are as follows: “The lectures that have been delivered up to this time were all branches, while the main trunk is the one I am going to speak on; all others have been deduced from it, but this has been deduced from none. My predecessors spoke on this subject just as I now do; I spoke briefly on it in 1914 and shall say more so long I am alive. Others too will discourse upon it but will never be able

to exhaust it. I do not exaggerate when I say that every other subject has sprung from it.”

Quite surprisingly my readers would ask what the lecture was about. I may tell them it was on “God,” exaggeration there cannot be. The Master-Prophet Mohammad, peace and the blessings of God be on him, instructed men in the heavenly ways and taught the people everything about God. In modern times, the Promised Messiah, God be pleased with him, wrote hundreds of pages upon the divine attributes. With the exception of these two grand personages whether any other man spoke so much or taught so much is only doubtful. He rediscovered God to the public gaze. God was a hidden treasure which was brought to light by this illustrious son of the second Adam who had received a revelation from God as far back as 1884 which runs as follows: “I was a hidden treasure; I willed that I be known to my people; so I brought Adam into being.” This Adam was no other than the Promised Messiah[as] whose worthy son spoke so recently for 16 hours on the existence, attributes and ways of God. The lecture will be published in the near future in a book form. A brief summary of the headings of the lecture may, with advantage, be given as below: 1. The notion of God was traced from among the primitive nations of the earth.

2. The existence of God was proved in more than one way and the objections of the atheists were refuted.

3. The fact that God speaks to His chosen ones and answers to their prayers and solicitations was proved with copious illustrations.

4. The efficacy of prayer was proved to be a reality and the objections thereto were refuted.

5. God’s attributes were illustrated with examples. Besides the famous 99 attributes mentioned in the Holy Quran, several others were described.

6. Man manifests some of the divine qualities when his character is formed in light of the Divine attributes.

7. The commentary on the four fundamental attributes of God mentioned in the opening chapter of the Al-Quran challenges all others.

These four attributes become transitionally limited in scope and application when the Almighty God condescends to show Himself to those persons who seek after him, for is not their power of comprehension limited?

I. Creator and Developer of the worlds II. The Beneficent III. The Merciful IV. Master of the Day of Retribution Man practices the four attributes to build up his character.

The four fundamental attributes of God: I. Master of the Day of Retribution II. The Merciful.

III. The Beneficent IV. Creator and Developer of the worlds The above illustration shows the four fundamental attributes of God in their transitional form till they become comprehensible by human intellect. But a man must proceed practising these attributes in the reverse order, that is from the bottom to the top so that he may become God-like and a model for his fellow-beings.

Ali Mohd. BA (Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original in The Review of Religions, March, April & May, 1922)

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Khanra was arriving in front of them. The Holy Prophetsa addressed him and pointing with his finger [towards the Promised Messiahas] said, ‘He is from Allah; he is from Allah.’ The Holy Prophetsa said this three times. (Register Rawayat Sahaba Hazrat Masih-eMaudas, Register No. 11, p. 28; Khutbat-e-Masroor Vol. 10, p. 748)

These incidents may have occurred during the time of the Promised Messiahas but this does not mean such incidents do not occur now. Allah Almighty still guides people to the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas through visions and dreams. (For further details on this subject, see Jamaat Ahmadiyya Main Qiyam-e-Khilafat Kay Baray Main Ilhamat, Kushoof-o-Roya, Aur Ilahi Isharay) A method to see the Holy Prophetsa in dreams

To conclude, I would like to present an incident that might interest curious readers.

After all, when reading about the accounts of such pious individuals, one is instinctively inspired to follow their ways. The question of how to see the Holy Prophetsa in dreams was once answered by the Promised Messiahas.

Hazrat Mian Sohnay Khanra wrote to the Promised Messiahas, asking him which Quranic prayer or durood one should recite if one wished to see the Holy Prophetsa in dreams.

The Promised Messiahas replied that the condition for seeing the Holy Prophetsa was to establish his love in your heart and forsake the love of all other ties when you recite durood.

Hazrat Sohnay Sahibra accordingly began to recite durood earnestly. A few days later, he had a dream in which he saw the Promised Messiahas take him by the hand to the court of the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa was seated on a throne and people were standing by in queues.

Addressing the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas stated that he had made good arrangements for Sohnay Sahibra to which the Holy Prophetsa responded that he had accepted them. Then, the Promised Messiahas sought permission and left.

Sohnay Sahibra states that he also saw some departed holy persons in the dream, all of whom had acknowledged the Mahdi and said they had taken his bai‘at. (Register Rawayat Sahaba, Vol. 12, pp. 195–199; Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 11, pp. 19–21)

Qadian, the abode of peace

17

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022

Islamic teachings on protecting and spending national wealth love, human beings damage national wealth while trying to hoard and save their own wealth through unlawful means.

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

ُ ُ ۡ َّ ۡ ۤ ُ ُ ۡ ُ َ ُ َ ۤ ُ​ُ َۡ ‫َو لَا تاکلوۡا َا ۡموَالَک ۡم بَ ۡینک ۡم ِبال َ َبا ِط ِل َو ت ۡ ۡدلوۡا ِب َہا ِال َ​َی ال ُحکا ِم ل َِتاکلوۡا‬ ّ َ ۡ َ َۡ ۡ ّ ًۡ ‫اس ِبالۡاِث ِم َو ان ُت ۡم ت ۡعل ُموۡ َن‬ ِ ‫ف ِریقا ِمن اموَ ِال الن‬

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

There are many countries that have been blessed with immense amounts of natural resources, but still, they have a poor economy and thus, are bound to seek aid from other countries.

According to a report (2021) by UNCTAD, 490 million people in Africa were estimated to be living under the poverty line of $1.90 Purchasing Power Parity a day (PPP/day). (https://unctad.org/press-material/factsand-figures-7)

In 2017, according to a report by UNESCWA, which covered 286 million people living in 10 Arab countries, there were 116.1 million (40.6%) people who belonged to poor households, of which 38.2 million (13.4%) lived in acute poverty.(https://

ophi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/multidimensionalarab-poverty-report-english.pdf)

India is advancing in many fields and even made an attempt to reach the moon, but according to the Asian Development Bank, the proportion of employed population below $1.90 PPP/day in 2019 was 7.7%, and the unemployment rate in 2020 was 7.1%.

(https://www.adb.org/countries/india/poverty)

Pakistan, being an atomic power and having huge reservoirs of natural resources, is facing a severe energy crisis. Moreover, according to the Asian Development Bank, 24.3% of Pakistan’s population lived below the national poverty line in 2015, the proportion of employed population below $1.90 PPP/day in 2019 was 1.3%, and the unemployment rate in 2020 was 4.7%.

(https://www.adb.org/countries/pakistan/poverty)

Even the developed countries are facing poverty.

According to a report by the United States Census Bureau: “In 2020, there were 37.2 million [11.4%] people in poverty.” (www.census.gov/

library/publications/2021/demo/p60-273.html)

“In 2020, there were an estimated 96.5 million [21.9%] people in the EU at risk of poverty or social exclusion.” (https://ec.europa. eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Living_ conditions_in_Europe_-_pover ty_and_social_ exclusion)

The UN’s special envoy on human rights, Prof Olivier De Schutter said that the European Union is “not fit for purpose” in the task of reducing poverty in Europe and its “constitutional framework” was driving a race to the bottom in corporation and income tax and salary levels. (The Guardian, 29 January 2021, “EU ‘not fit for purpose’ to reduce poverty in Europe, says UN envoy”) A reason behind these problems is the inability to protect and correctly use national wealth. Wealth and resources are depleted and stolen due to unfavourable policies and corruption, both at the individual and governmental levels.

“Corruption can affect income inequality and poverty through various channels, including overall growth, biased tax systems, and poor targeting of social programs as well as through its impact on asset ownership, human capital formation, education inequalities, and uncertainty in factor accumulation.” (www.imf.org/external/

pubs/ft/wp/wp9876.pdf)

It is however necessary to define national wealth.

National wealth can be defined as the wealth owned by a nation at a point in time which is the nation’s total monetary value. It is made up of the nation’s capital, goods and services, including net foreign balance and tangible assets.

It is human nature to acquire and save wealth and profit from it. Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

ً َ ‫َّوتُ ِح ُّبوْ َن ال ْ َم‬ ‫ال ُح ًّبا َج ّما‬

“And you love wealth with exceeding love”. (Surah al-Fajr, Ch.89: V.21) Under the influence of this exceeding

The Promised Messiahas has translated this verse (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V. 189) as: “Do not devour each other’s substance through deceit and falsehood, nor offer your wealth as a bribe to the authorities, that you may deliberately acquire a part of other people’s wealth through injustice.” (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, p. 54) In the commentary of this verse, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira states: “Do not bribe and spend [money] unjustly in litigation. ‫ بَا ِط ْل‬means something which is obtained against the Shariah.”

(Haqaiq-ul-Furqan, Vol. 1, p. 311)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, in his commentary of this verse, states: “On most occasions, to emphasise on national life, the Holy Quran calls the belongings of common men and people of the country or the nation as ‘your belongings’ so that it is understood that whichever person damages the people of the nation, damages himself. Here ‘your wealth’ also means the wealth of other people.

But to bring attention towards the abovementioned rule, it has been called ‘your wealth.’”. (Tafsir-e-Saghir, p. 52) He stated on an occasion: ُ ُ ُ ُ “The word ‫ ت ْدلوْا ِب َھا‬is in the sense of ‫لَا ت ْدلوْا ِب َھا‬ and it means that 1.) do not take each other’s wealth to the authorities. Meaning, do not take their wealth by making false cases 2.) do not give wealth to the rulers as a bribe.

“Human beings obviously consume ُ َ ُ​ُ َْ their own wealth, thus, ‫ لَا تاکلوْا ا ْموَالَک ْم‬means, do not consume each other’s wealth with falsehood. Human beings consume the wealth of others in many ways. Firstly, by lying, secondly by snatching through illegal ways, thirdly through interest, fourthly by taking bribes. All these things are included in dishonesty. َّ ْ َ ‫و تُ ْدلُوْا ِب َھا ِا‬,َ it has been “In the words ‫لی ال ُحکا ِم‬ taught that as it is invalid to consume each other’s wealth, in the same way, you should not lure the authorities with money so that you can consume the wealth of others through this. In this verse, it has been forbidden and declared illegal to bribe the authorities.

“The second meaning of this verse is that you should not take your wealth to the authorities so that you can consume a portion of the people’s wealth through sin.

Meaning, do not file false cases against them and do not think that it will be valid for you if the ruler would give you someone else’s right without doing true justice. Because

there is a heavenly court too which is much higher than these worldly courts and when He [God] has declared something unlawful in His law, then it will remain invalid and unlawful even if any worldly court declares it lawful.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 2, p. 415) Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: َّ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ ْ َّ َ ُ َْْ ‫ض َج ِم ْی ًعا‬ ِ ‫ھوال ِذی خلق لکم ما فِی الار‬ “He it is Who created for you all that is in the earth” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.30) Meaning, everything which is present in this world has been created by Allah the Almighty for the benefit of the whole of mankind. As human beings, they might be the owners of certain things, but eventually, they are responsible and answerable to Allah for their protection.

Thus, the Holy Prophetsa said: ُ ُّ ُ ُ ُّ ُ َ َ َ ٌ ُ َ ‫ َوكلك ْم َم ْسئول ع ْن َر ِع ّي ِت ِه‬،‫ألا كلك ْم َر ٍاع‬ “Surely! Everyone of you is a guardian and is responsible for his charges.” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al-Ahkam, Hadith 7138)

In the commentary of the abovementioned verse (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.30), Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “That is, everything that is found in the world has been created by Allah for the benefit of mankind.

“Mountains, rivers, mineral wealth and other means of human progress are mankind’s collective property, and we all have a share in this collective wealth. All these natural resources provide electricity, gold, silver, and other precious metals as well as drugs and chemicals that are used to treat illnesses. There is a limitless variety of produced goods, some for personal consumption, some for industry as raw materials, and some are traded internationally.

“God reminds us that everything has been created for the benefit of mankind. No individual can lay exclusive claim upon these resources, whether it is a Pharaoh, a Hitler, a Churchill or a Roosevelt. Everything that has been created is for the benefit of the entire human race, including the rulers and the ruled, the high and the low, the superior and the subservient. No one may claim that God has created these things only for his own personal use. The Quran tells us that ‘I have created this for you’ and that we are all collective claimants of His creation.” (The

Economic System of Islam, p. 17-18)

At another place, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra states: “This verse also implies that all that is in the world is a common inheritance of mankind, so it should not be used in the way of being the exclusive property of an individual or a nation. Europe is moving towards destruction by ignoring this point.

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Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

18 << Continued from previous page

If Europe were to follow the teachings of the Holy Quran, then there would never have been the jealousy and malice that is brewing between different countries, nations, groups and individuals. Islamic teaching on sadaqat [alms] and zakat is also based on the same principle that in fact all the objects of the earth are created for all human beings and that humankind, as a whole, is their owner.

“Thus, even though individual possession should be recognised, it should not be in such a way that others who are also equally eligible for these rights, would be completely deprived of it.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, p. 268)

Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh stated: “As with the social system advocated

by Islam, the Islamic economic system commences with the premise that all that is in the heavens and the earth has been created

by God, Who has bestowed man various provisions on trust. As a trustee, man will be held accountable for the discharge of this trust. The possession or absence of wealth is a means of trial so that in both abundance and adversity, those who are mindful of their accountability may be distinguished from those who resort to callousness and scant attention to the sufferings of the rest of mankind. [...]

“An important concept of possession under Islam is that certain resources are taken out of individual ownership and placed in the hands of mankind as a whole.

Thus, mineral resources and the produce of seas and oceans is not the exclusive property of any individual or group of people.” (Islam’s

Response To Contemporary Issues, pp. 173-174)

The history of mankind shows that those nations which understood and acted on the principle that all wealth belongs to Allah and He is the real Owner and it cannot be consumed against His Will, eventually succeeded. But those who did not give any importance to this were destroyed and their economies met destruction.

Hazrat Shoaibas taught his people not to use those ways of earning and consuming their wealth which resulted in disorder. But his people mocked him and questioned his authority on guiding them – it was their money, their wealth, their properties, thus, it was their right to decide whichever way it should be used. So, his people rejected Allah’s commandment and eventually had to face His torment.

It is impossible to witness protection of wealth at the national level without protection at an individual level.

At the individual level, one of the basic duties of protecting national wealth is that every citizen should pay the due taxes in all honesty because a portion of that tax is spent on the national assets and for the production, repair and protection of those assets. Roads, sanitation systems, health, education and other arrangements that are made for the welfare of the public are all counted as national wealth or assets.

One aspect of the protection of national wealth is to avoid anything that involves extravagance and waste of individual goods.

Because individual wealth collectively makes the national wealth. That is, if the citizens of a country waste their own personal wealth, it will be a waste of national wealth.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has explained

The Holy Quran, the “perfect book”

this phenomenon in detail: “[...] There are many other examples of wasteful spending. For example, some pleasure-seekers spend a fortune on dancing women, others, for lack of alternatives, spend it on gatherings of poetry recitals. There may be a poor widow in their backyard holding in her lap her hungry and crying children all night, but the rich give little thought to feeding the orphans, as they care more for their fame. However, God declares that they are not spending their money but rather wasting it.” (The Economic System of Islam, p. 24-25) Huzoorra further said: “Cinema and theatre are another area of waste in this day and age. I once made a rough calculation and was astonished to discover the enormous amount the public spends on this pastime. [...] The Holy Quran shuts the doors of all such avenues of wastage, and holds true believers to be those who stay away from such frivolous activities and do not spend a penny of their income on them.

“The European countries with democratic governments are eager to promote their economic progress but spend a fortune building cinema houses and theatres. [...] However, Islam categorically rejects all such activities that are not in the interest of mankind at large. If these teachings of Islam were adopted, the society would become largely egalitarian, as a big incentive to earn illicit wealth is the urge to satisfy vain desires.” (The Economic System of Islam, p. 46-47)

Alcohol consumption, smoking and gambling are the prominent evils of this era and they are causing unforgettable loss to national wealth.

In this regard, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh stated: “The amount spent on drinking in one day in Great Britain is enough to feed the famine-stricken multitudes of Africa for many weeks. Yet, in the most povertystricken countries of Africa and other continents, drinking is not considered a luxury that people cannot afford. Having failed to provide for the basic necessities of life and their children’s education, there are millions of Africans who would still have access to the consumption of alcohol. In the poor south of India where factory-made wine is not available to all, homemade toddy serves as a substitute. However, poverty does deter the spread of the ‘mother of all evils’ to a degree. If the per capita income rises, so does the expenditure on drink. Until

someone becomes an alcoholic, nobody seems to care much about it.” (Islam’s response to contemporary issues, p. 156) Alcohol consumption has extremely bad effects on human health, so eventually, there are a lot of expenses incurred on health care, and the crime rate in society also increases.

A report published on 2 March 2017 by The International Institute of Alcohol Studies presented the economic losses to the UK economy as a result of alcohol consumption.

According to the report, direct costs are likely in the range of £8-11 billion whereas total societal costs, for example, the impacts of alcohol-related violence and distress, have been estimated between £21-52 billion.

The report stated: “The World Health Organization has recommended per capita consumption as one of the key indicators of its target of a 10% reduction in the harmful use of alcohol. Such a prospect might cause alarm on economic grounds. However, there is little reason to believe lower alcohol consumption would have a negative effect on the economy – indeed, it may boost national income. [...] In the ‘long run’ (when productive capacity is the main constraint on the economy) lower alcohol consumption is likely to have a positive effect by boosting productivity and labour supply, by reducing absenteeism, presenteeism, unemployment and premature mortality.” (www.ias.org.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2020/06/rp23022017.pdf)

According to a report published in 2017 by the Government’s Tobacco Control Plan for England, smoking costs England’s economy in excess of £11 billion per year.

Of this, £2.5 billion falls to the NHS, £5.3 billion to employers and £4.1 billion falls to wider society.

The report further states: “Smoking-related ill health also leads to increased costs for the adult social care system. One study estimates that local councils face a demand pressure of £760 million a year on domiciliary (home) care services, as a result of smoking-related health conditions.” (www.gov.uk/government/

publications/towards-a-smoke-free-generation-tobaccocontrol-plan-for-england)

This data proves that smoking and alcohol consumption and the resulting costs severely harm national wealth. If efforts are made individually, these costs can be reduced, or even eliminated altogether.

Regarding gambling, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh stated: “In gambling, money changes hands

without pushing the wheel of economy just as money is exchanged for money without an underlying exchange of commodity in the money markets. [...] In trade and commerce, the exchange of value, more often than not, is beneficial for all concerned. It is inconceivable that the majority of traders should most often suffer losses.

“While in gambling, as a rule, a large majority of participants suffer losses most of the time. For instance, few casinos go bust.

For the gain of a few, hundreds of thousands of people must suffer. The only value they get in exchange for the money they lose is the excitement and thrill of suspense until the realisation that they have lost their stake at last dawns upon them.

“After that, they begin to wager again with a slim chance of recouping their losses until the tension and stresses grow far beyond the pleasure of excitement they receive in the bargain; the anguish and the heartache no longer remain a private matter for an individual but begin to tell on family relationships. In the poorer sections of society, the daily needs of family members have to be sacrificed at the altar of gambling.”

(Islam’s response to contemporary issues, p. 156-157)

The greatest responsibility for the protection of national wealth lies with its rulers. They must strive for the betterment of the nation’s economic condition, and to ensure that the national wealth is safe and whatever means are necessary to improve the financial condition of the nation, should be used.

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: َ َ ُ ّٰ ۡ َ ۡ َ ٰ ٰ َّ ُ ۡ ُ ّٰ َ ‫ض ؕ َوالل ُہ َع ٰلی ک ِ ّل ش ۡی ٍء ق ِدیۡ ٌر‬ ِ ‫ول ِل ِہ ملک السمو ِت والار‬ “And to Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth; and Allah has power over all things.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, Ch.3: V. 190)

At another place, Allah says: َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ٰ ٰ َّ ُ ۡ ُ ٗ َ ۡ َّ َ َ ٰ َ َ ‫ض َو َما بَ ۡین ُہ َما‬ ِ ‫و تبرک ال ِذی لہ ملک السمو ِت و الار‬ “And blessed is He to Whom belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them” (Surah al-Zukhruf, Ch.43: V.86)

Since all the kingdoms belong to Allah, all humans are answerable to Him regarding their kingdoms and possessions. They are apparently kings, but the real King is God. A common person is answerable for the valid consumption of their personal wealth, whereas, a king, president or prime minister has to answer for the safety and valid consumption of national wealth.

Islam has declared the government as a trust, not property and protection of people’s dignity, life and wealth (national wealth) is the basic purpose of a government.

About those who assume power, Allah says:

َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ّٰ َ َ ‫ض ل ُِیف ِس َد فِ ۡی َہا َویُ ۡہ ِلک ال َح ۡرث‬ ‫َو ِاذا توَلی َس ٰعی فِی الۡا ۡر‬ ِ ّٰ َ َ ۡ َّ َ َ ‫الل ُہ لَا یُ ِح ُّب ال ۡ َف َس‬ ‫والنسل ؕ و‬ ‫اد‬

“And when he is in authority, he runs about in the land to create disorder in it and destroy the crops and the progeny [of man]; and Allah loves not disorder.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V. 206)

In commentary of this verse, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “There are many rulers and kings in the world, who when they assume power — that is, when they acquire authority by employing God-given capacities — they run about in the land to create disorder in it instead

19

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 of serving the country and its inhabitants.

Their activities create disturbances and disorder between different tribes, nations and religious groups, and result in economic disruption, cultural degradation, and the ruin of future generations.

“This verse points out that there are rulers and kings who gain authority because of God-given faculties. However, once in power, instead of serving their country or its people, and establishing peace and security, they introduce measures that lead to conflict between people of different countries, tribes and religions, and create chaos in the land.

They also adopt ways that destroy the country’s social and economic fabric and bring ruin to future generations.

“The word harth in the Quranic verse literally means an ‘agricultural crop’, but here it is used figuratively with a wider connotation to all resources of economic development and financial well-being.

The reference is to the rulers who do not adopt measures appropriate for economic growth and financial improvements of their people, but, instead, make laws that destroy the country’s society, its economy and its financial situation. In this way, they create obstacles for the progress of future generations and make laws that deprive them of the capacity and knowledge needed for growth and development. [...]

“The conclusion from the above verse is that, according to Islam, the rulers, in the true sense of the word, are those that provide peace, improve economic well-being of their subjects, make their lives secure, and do not squander the country’s resources in unnecessary wars resulting in wanton loss of life. In other words, the State is obligated to ensure peace, security and well-being of its citizens.” (The Economic System of Islam, p. 6-7) In light of this excerpt, another aspect of the protection of national wealth comes from the fact that the government should not use its national wealth in unnecessary wars, but use them for the development of the nation.

We see that the countries that call

themselves the ‘developed’ countries, are wasting national wealth on unnecessary wars.

In this era, we see that strong nations exploit the weaker nations often through the excuse of war and helping that weaker country. They claim to be their helpers, but actually, they are not.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa states: “The powerful nations take advantage of the weaker nations and dictate their own preferred policies and so in this way they have practically enslaved the developing countries. Sadly, the major powers take benefit and advantage of the natural resources of the poorer nations and do not give what is the due right of the weaker nations in return.” (‘Africa at 50’ event, PAAMA, 23 November 2013)

While mentioning the duties of the rulers, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “If rulers protect people’s lives and wealth, make decisions based on justice and fairness, do not discriminate against individuals or communities, treat the weak and the strong equally, maintain order within the State, and do not tread the path of rulers who show favouritism and bias, then they would not only be carrying out God’s commandment, but would themselves benefit from this conduct. [...]

“God instructed the rulers in His shariah that they must always act with equity and justice, strive constantly to uplift the nation’s economic condition, protect the life and property of its citizens, and not discriminate between individuals and nations and not adopt ways that would be detrimental to the development of the country and future generations. Instead, the rulers should always adopt such means and laws that are essential for the country’s progress.” (The Economic System of Islam, pp. 8-9) May Allah the Almighty enable us to protect our national wealth at the individual level and may Allah guide all world leaders as well, so that they spend their national wealth in the right way.

Activities of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo Besmir Yvejsi Kosovo Correspondent

Distribution of food packages to families in need Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo received a request from the Directorate for Social Welfare from the Prishtina municipality to support 100 families in need. Thus, Kosovo Jamaat and Humanity First Kosovo donated food packages to needy families.

On behalf of the municipality of Prishtina, the representative of the Directorate for Social Welfare, Mr Premtim N Fazliu thanked the Jamaat, and said: “Humanity First has been side by side with the Municipality of Prishtina and has always responded to our requests to support families in need with social assistance. I wish that our cooperation will continue.”

“Muhammad was the greatest man”: Quran exhibition and bookstall at Moana Market in South Australia Atif Ahmed Zahid Regional Missionary, South Australia

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Adelaide West organised a Holy Quran exhibition and bookstall at Moana Market on 13 March 2022.

The local community of the beachside outer suburb of Moana organises a market every second Sunday of the month. The market is being held in the Pioneers Memorial Hall and its surrounding ground near the beautiful beach of Moana. Moana is a popular tourist destination in South Australia which is situated 36 kilometres from the central business district (CBD) in the south of Adelaide.

After the Fajr prayer, the Jamaat members started the journey from Mahmood Mosque in the Jamaat van.

After reaching the marketplace, the Jamaat members did not spare a minute and set up the stall at the entrance of the car park which is also near the road to the beach. Thus, the messages portrayed in the gazebo were read by hundreds of the beachgoers. Further, the stall attracted the market-visitors due to its colour and position in the marketplace.

Moreover, the stall received significant attention from the local community as it was the first stall of its kind from any Muslim organisations in Moana.

This humble one led everyone in a silent prayer before the Jamaat members started the tabligh activities. Tabligh activities started with a visit to other stalls in the market and by greeting the market-visitors.

I led the interactions with the community members and the visit to other stalls.

Further, I gave important instructions to the Jamaat members on how to do tabligh activities appropriately.

Dozens of people visited the stall and discussed various matters with the Jamaat members. Discussions included female

education in Islam, the war in Ukraine, multi-culturalism in Australia, sharia and the life of the Holy Prophetsa. The Jamaat members presented the true teachings of Islam to the visitors and responded to numerous questions asked by them. These discussions thus helped to remove different misconceptions about Islam, and break down barriers and build bridges between the communities.

The younger members of the community visiting the market with their parents showed a greater interest to learn about the religion. I showed them the copies of the Holy Quran in different languages and gave them pamphlets as they were interested to know more about the religion.

Some community members eagerly came to the stall and thanked the Jamaat members for holding the bookstall in the market.

Alhamdulillah, a total of 10 books and dozens of pamphlets were distributed among the community members.

The market started at 9am and ran till 1:30pm. During this time, the stall was able to spread the message of the Jamaat to hundreds of the community members by the grace of Almighty Allah.

Mr Richard Shaw visited the bookstall and told the members at the stall that he had read a book on the life of the Holy Prophetsa.

Furthermore, he expressed about the Holy Prophetsa that “He was the greatest man on earth. He is on top of my list.” He was given the book, Life of Muhammad, for further reading.

Another visitor said: “It is very good [and] very educational.

It feels good to stand here. I am getting positive vibes just by standing here.”

May Allah accept the humble efforts of the Jamaat members and help them to spread the peaceful message of Islam, amin.

Preparatory meetings for the month of Ramadan On 12 March 2022, an event was held in the city of Peja, which began with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its Albanian translation, followed by a lecture on the essence of Ramadan. After the lecture, there was a question and answer session.

On 13 March 2022, an event was held in Prishtina, in which members from several cities around Prishtina participated such as Podujeva, Fushëkosova, Malisheva and Shtime. After the Maghrib prayer, the event commenced with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its Albanian translation, followed by a poem and a lecture on the blessings of Ramadan. The event concluded with a silent prayer.

Alhamdulillah, these two meetings were attended by a total of 39 people, including children and external guests.

Holy Quran exhibition and bookstall at Moana Market, South Australia

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

20

Friday Sermon 25 February 2022 Men of Excellence: Hazrat Abu Bakrra After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said: that others do – i.e. the other pilgrims – except for performing the circuits around the House of Allah.” (Sunan al-Nasa’‘i, Kitab al-

Accounts relating to Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra were being narrated. One narration with regards to Hajjat-ul-Wada [farewell pilgrimage of the Holy Prophetsa] is recorded in the following manner. The Holy Prophetsa left for Hajjat-ul-Wada on a Thursday, when only six days were remaining to the month of Dhul-Qadah, in the 10th year after Hijrah.

According to another narration, the Holy Prophetsa set off on a Saturday. (Ali bin Burhan

Manasik al-Hajj, Bab al-Ghusl li al-Ihlal, Hadith 2664), (Yaqut Ibn ‘Abd Allah al-Hamawi, Mu’jam al-Buldan, Vol. 2 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah], p.

339)

When the Holy Prophetsa passed by the valley of Usfan he asked, “O Abu Bakrra, which valley is this?” Hazrat Abu Bakrra submitted, “This is the valley of Usfan.” The Holy Prophetsa then stated, “Hazrat Hudra and Hazrat Salihra passed by here to perform the pilgrimage of the Ancient House, on two red camels, the bridles of which were made from the bark of date palms. They were wearing a cloak, wrapped with a black and white patterned cloth on top, and they were reciting the Talbiyah [prayer invoked whilst performing the pilgrimage].” (Mustafa ‘Abd al-

al-Din al-Halabi, Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, Bab Hajjatul Wada [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah, 2002], p. 361)

Nevertheless, in one narration, Hazrat Asma bint Abi Bakrra relates, “When the Holy Prophetsa intended to set off for Hajjatul-Wada, Hazrat Abu Bakrra submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! I have a camel and we can load our provisions upon it.’ The Holy Prophetsa agreed to this. Hence, the same camel was used for the provisions of the Holy Prophetsa and those of Hazrat Abu Bakrra. The Holy Prophetsa had provisions prepared from flour and barley and loaded them on Hazrat Abu Bakr’sra camel. Hazrat Abu Bakrra then handed the camel to his servant.”

Hazrat Asma bint Abi Bakrra further relates, “We set off for Hajj alongside the Holy Prophetsa. When we reached Arj, the Holy Prophetsa dismounted his camel and we did so as well. Following this, Hazrat Aishara sat down beside the Holy Prophetsa and I sat down beside my father. The provisions of the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra were on the same camel, (as has been mentioned) and this was with a servant of Hazrat Abu Bakrra.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra was waiting for him to arrive. The servant arrived, but the camel was not with him. Hazrat Abu Bakrra asked, ‘Where is your camel?’ He replied, ‘I lost it the previous night.’ Upon this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra said, ‘There was only one camel and you have lost that as well?’ Following this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra stood up in order to hit him. The Holy Prophetsa was smiling and said, ‘Look at this Muhrim [a pilgrim who is in the state of Ihram]! What is he doing?’”

Ibn Abi Rizmah relates that the Holy Prophetsa only said, “Look at this Muhrim!

What is he about to do?” The Holy Prophetsa then started smiling. (Mustafa ‘Abd alWahid, Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 7, Fi Husn Khulqih [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1993], pp. 12-13), (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Manasik, Bab al-Muhrim Yu’addibu Ghulamah, Hadith 1818)

Wahid, Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al‘Ibad, Vol. 8, Fi Siyaq Hajjat al-Wada’ [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1993], p. 461)

Along the journey during the Farewell Pilgrimage, Hazrat Abu Bakrra was among those who had sacrificial animals with them. (‘Ali bin Burhan al-Din al-Halabi, Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, Bab Hajjatul Wada’ [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 2002], p. 369)

Nevertheless, when some of the companions came to know the provisions of the Holy Prophetsa had been lost, they brought him some hees. This is a confection of very high quality made from dates, flour and butter. This was presented before the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa addressed Hazrat Abu Bakrra, who was reprimanding his servant, and said, “O Abu Bakr! Be lenient as this matter is neither in your control, nor ours. This servant must certainly have tried not to lose the camel, but it still got lost.” In any case, the Holy Prophetsa said, “Look, this is a pure form of nourishment, which has been brought to us from Allah the Almighty and it is a replacement of our provisions that were with this servant.” Following this, the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra ate the food and those who used to eat with them also ate therefrom until all were satisfied with their fill.

Thereafter, Hazrat Safwan bin Mu‘attalra arrived. His responsibility was to follow the entourage. The task that was entrusted to him was the same as mentioned in the incident of Ifk; to follow and see if anything had been left behind.

Hazrat Safwanra arrived and with him was the camel which was carrying the travel provisions. He brought the camel and sat it at the entrance of where the Holy Prophetsa had camped. The Holy Prophetsa then said to Hazrat Abu Bakrra, “Check to see if any of your belongings are missing.”

Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied, “Aside from a bowl which we used to drink water from, nothing is missing.” Upon this, the servant said, “That bowl is with me.” (‘Ali bin Burhan al-Din al-Halabi, Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, Bab Hajjatul Wada’ [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah, 2002], p. 365), (Sayyid Fadl al-Rahman, Farhang-e-Sirat [Karachi, Pakistan: Zawwar Academy Publications, 2003], p. 110)

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra relates that he departed alongside the Holy Prophetsa to perform the pilgrimage during the Hajjatul Wada. With him was his wife, Asma bint Umaisra. When they reached Dhul-Hulaifah, Hazrat Asma’ra gave birth to Muhammad bin Abi Bakr. Dhul-Hulaifah is situated 6-7 miles from Medina. Hazrat Abu Bakrra went to the Holy Prophetsa and informed him about the birth. The Holy Prophetsa said to him, “Tell Asma to bathe, then wear the Ihram for Hajj, and perform all the rites

Hazrat Abu Bakrra relates: “I saw during the Farewell Pilgrimage that Suhail bin Amr was stood at the place to make the sacrifices, and he was ushering the sacrificial animal of the Holy Prophetsa closer to him. The Holy Prophetsa slaughtered it with his own hands. He then called for a person to shave off the hair on his head.” Hazrat Abu Bakrra further says, “I saw Suhail was placing the blessed hair of the Holy Prophetsa on his own eyes. I then remembered that this was the same Suhail who was stopping the Holy Prophetsa from writing ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim’ [in the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful] during the Treaty of Hudaibiyah.

Upon this, I praised and glorified Allah, Who guided Suhail to Islam, and who then excelled immeasurably in his sincerity and devotion after being granted guidance.”

(Mustafa ‘Abd al-Wahid, Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 5, Fi Ghazwat al-Hudaibiyah [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1993], p.

64)

In relation to Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra leading the prayers during the final illness of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Aishara relates: “During his illness, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Tell Abu Bakrra to lead the people during the prayers.’” Hazrat Aishara states,

21

AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 “I then said, ‘Hazrat Abu Bakrra will not be able to be heard by the people due to [his] weeping whilst standing in your place.

Therefore, instruct Hazrat Umarra to lead the prayers.’” Hazrat Aishara then says, “I said to Hazrat Hafsahra, ‘Tell the Holy Prophetsa that if Hazrat Abu Bakrra stands in his place the people will be unable to hear him from all his weeping, so he should instruct Hazrat Umarra to lead the people in prayer.’ Hazrat Hafsahra did so, but the Holy Prophetsa expressed his displeasure and said, ‘Remain silent. You are behaving like the women in the time Josephas. Tell Abu Bakr that it is he who will lead the people in prayer.’” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al-Adhan, Bab Ahl al-‘Ilm wa al-Fadl Ahaqq bi al-Amanah, Hadith 679)

Prior to the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, when Hazrat Abu Bakrra was not present, Hazrat Bilalra told Hazrat Umarra to lead the prayers. When the voice of Hazrat Umarra reached the Holy Prophetsa in his room, he asked, “Where is Abu Bakrra? Allah and the Muslims are not pleased that anyone other than Abu Bakr leads the prayers.”

Hazrat Abu Bakrra was then called and he arrived when Hazrat Umarra had already completed the prayer. Hazrat Abu Bakrra then continued to lead the prayers during the illness of the Holy Prophetsa up until his demise. (Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr, Al-Isti‘ab fi Ma’rifat al-Ashab, Vol. 3, Harf al-‘Ain [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar alKutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 2002], pp. 96-97)

Hazrat Aishara narrates: “During the course of his illness, the Holy Prophetsa instructed Hazrat Abu Bakrra to lead the people in prayer, and he did so accordingly.” Urwah reports, “When the Holy Prophetsa felt some relief from his illness, he came into the mosque. He saw that Hazrat Abu Bakrra was standing in the front, leading the people in prayer. When Hazrat Abu Bakrra saw the Holy Prophetsa, he stepped back. Seeing this, the Holy Prophetsa indicated to Hazrat Abu Bakrra to remain in his place and the Holy Prophetsa took a seat beside him. Hazrat Abu Bakrra followed the Holy Prophetsa in prayer, and the people followed the prayer of Hazrat Abu Bakrra.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Adhan, Bab man Qama ila Janb al-Imam, Hadith 683)

This is a narration of Sahih al-Bukhari.

There is another similar narration in Bukhari. Hazrat Anas bin Malik Ansarira narrates: “Hazrat Abu Bakrra would lead the people in prayer during the illness of the Holy Prophetsa that led to his demise. It was on a Monday while people were praying in their rows when the Holy Prophetsa lifted the curtain to his chambers. The Holy Prophetsa was standing and looking toward us, and it was as though his blessed face was a page of the Holy Quran. He was happy and smiled, and we thought that we would happily take on any hardship upon seeing the Holy Prophetsa. Meanwhile, Hazrat Abu Bakrra stepped backward to join the rows as he thought the Holy Prophetsa had come out for prayer, however, the Holy Prophetsa conveyed through an indication that we should complete our prayer, and then he let down his curtain. The Holy Prophetsa passed away that very day.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Adhan, Bab Ahl al-‘Ilm wa al-Fadl Ahaqq bi al-Amanah, Hadith 680)

In accordance with the first narration, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “Hazrat Aishara narrates, ‘when the Holy Prophetsa was unwell due to the illness that

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

led to his demise, he was unable to lead the prayers because of severe weakness. For this reason, he instructed Hazrat Abu Bakrra to lead the prayers. When Hazrat Abu Bakrra started the prayer, the Holy Prophetsa felt some relief and went out for prayer.’ Hazrat Aishara states, ‘After instructing Hazrat Abu Bakrra to lead the prayer and after the prayer had started, the Holy Prophetsa felt some alleviation from his illness. Thus, the Holy Prophetsa emerged while two men supported him up.’ She continues to state, ‘At that time, I saw before my eyes that the feet of the Holy Prophetsa were dragging against the ground due to severe pain. Upon seeing him, Hazrat Abu Bakrra intended on stepping back. The Holy Prophetsa became aware of this and indicated to Hazrat Abu Bakrra to remain in his place. Then, the Holy Prophetsa was brought there and he took a seat next to Hazrat Abu Bakrra. Following this, the Holy Prophetsa began to pray and Hazrat Abu Bakrra followed him in prayer, and the rest of the people followed Hazrat Abu Bakrra in prayer.’” (Sirat al-Nabisa, Anwar al-

the Holy Prophetsa, kissed [his forehead] and said, ‘May my parents be sacrificed for you.

You are holy and pure at the time of your demise, just as you were during your life. I swear by Him in Whose hands is my life, Allah will never allow you to be subjected to two deaths.’ After saying this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra went outside and said, ‘O you who is swearing an oath, stop what you are doing (i.e. he told Hazrat Umarra to stop).’ When Hazrat Abu Bakrra began speaking, Hazrat Umarra sat down. Hazrat Abu Bakrra praised God and said, ُ َ ّ ٰ َّ ً َ ُ ُ َ َ َّ َ َ ‫ألَا َم ْن ك‬ ‫ان ِم ْنك ْم ي َ ْع ُبَد محَ ّمدا َص َلى الل ُه َع ٰل ْي ِه َو َسل َم ف ِإ ّن‬ َ َ َ ّ ّ ُ ُ َ َ ْ َ ً َّ َ ُ َ ‫ َو َم ْن ك‬،‫ات‬ ‫ان ي َ ْع ُبد الل َه ف ِإ ّن الل َه َح ٌّى لا ي َ ُموت‬ ‫محمدا قد م‬ “‘Whosoever worshipped Muhammadsa, then let it be known that Muhammad has surely passed away. And whosoever worships Allah, then they should know that Allah is Living and can never die.’ Then, Hazrat Abu Bakrra recited this verse:

‘Ulum, Vol. 1, pp. 506-507)

َ َ َ۠​َ ّ ‫َو َما ُم َح َّم ٌد ِالَّا َر ُسوۡ ٌل ۚ َق ۡد َخ َل ۡت ِم ۡن َق ۡب ِل ِہ‬ ‫الرُ ُس ُل ؕ افائِ ۡن ّمات‬ ُ َ َ َ​َۡ ُ َ َ َۡ ‫ا ۡو ق ِت َل انقل ۡب ُت ۡم َع ٰۤلی ا ۡعق ِابک ۡم ؕ َو َم ۡن ّینق ِل ٰۡب َع ٰلی َع ِق َب ۡی ِہ‬ ّ ّٰ ً َ ّٰ َ ُ َّ َ َ ‫فل ۡن یض ّر الل َہ ش ۡیئا ؕ َو َس َی ۡج ِزی الل ُہ الش ِک ِریۡ َن‬

In respect to the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, Urwah bin Zubair has reported another narration from the blessed wife of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Aishara: “The Holy Prophetsa had passed away while Hazrat Abu Bakrra was in Sun‘a’ (in other words, he was in the village of Sun‘a’, located in the outskirts). Upon hearing the news, Hazrat Umarra stood up (when the Holy Prophetsa passed away, Hazrat Abu Bakrra was not present, however, Hazrat Umarra was present and he stood up) and said, ‘I swear by Allah, the Holy Prophetsa has not passed away.’”

Hazrat Aishara states: “Hazrat Umarra would say, ‘I swear

by Allah, at the time, I felt that Allah will surely cause the Holy Prophetsa to awaken in order to cut the hands and feet of some of the people.’ Meanwhile, Hazrat Abu Bakrra arrived, removed the cloth from the face of

َ َّ َ َ َّ ‫ِانک َم ِّی ٌت ّو ِان ُہ ۡم ّم ِّی ُتوۡ َن‬

“That is, surely, thou wilt die, and surely they too will die. (Surah az-Zumar, Ch.39: V31).

“He then recited the following verse:

“‘And Muhammad is only a Messenger.

Verily, all Messengers have passed away before him. If then he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels? And he who turns back on his heels shall not harm Allah at all. And Allah will certainly reward the grateful.’” (Surah aal-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.145) The narrator says, “Upon hearing this, the people wept profusely.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Fada’il Ashab a-Nabisa, Bab Qaul al-Nabisa lau Kunta Muttakhidhan Khalilan, Hadith 3667-3668)

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra states: “I swear by Allah, it seemed as though up until that moment when Hazrat Abu Bakrra had recited this verse, the people were unaware that Allah had even revealed this verse. It was as if the people learnt this verse

from him, and following this, whomever I came across was reciting this very verse.” The narrator states, “Sa‘eed bin Musayyib told me that Hazrat Umarra stated, ‘I swear by Allah, as soon as I heard Hazrat Abu Bakrra recite this verse, I became so anxious that I fell to the ground because my feet could not hold me up out of awe. When I heard Hazrat Abu Bakrra recite this verse, I realised that the Holy Prophetsa had passed away.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi, Bab Marad al-Nabisa wa Wafatuh, Hadith 4454)

Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra narrates: “Hazrat Abu Bakrra passed by Hazrat Umarra while he was saying that the Holy Prophetsa had not passed away and would not pass away until Allah the Almighty eradicates the hypocrites.” Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra continues, “Upon hearing this, they (the companions) rejoiced and raised their heads, while Hazrat Abu Bakrra said, ‘Let it be known that the Holy Prophetsa has indeed passed away (he was addressing Hazrat Umarra and said that the Holy Prophetsa had indeed passed away). Have you not heard that Allah the Almighty has stated:

َ َّ َ َ َّ ‫ِانک َم ِّی ٌت ّو ِان ُہ ۡم ّم ِّی ُتوۡ َن‬

“Surely, thou wilt die, and surely they too will die.”

“And, [Allah the Almighty has also stated]:

ُۡۡ َ َ َ َۡ ‫َو َما َج َعلنا ل َِبش ٍر ِّمن ق ۡب ِلك الخل َد‬

“We granted not everlasting life to any human being before thee.”’

Following this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra stood at the pulpit and addressed the people.”

In any case, Abu Abdillah Qurtabi states in the commentary of this hadith, “This incident is a great testament to the bravery of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, because the pinnacle of bravery is to remain resolute and steadfast during adversity, and there could have been no greater trial for the Muslims at that time than the demise of the Holy Prophetsa.

Thus, at that moment, the extent of

Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

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the hypocrites, and then pass away.’ Hazrat Umarra believed that until the hypocrites were eliminated, the Holy Prophetsa could not pass away. Since there were still hypocrites present at the time of his demise, he thought that the Holy Prophetsa had not yet passed away. Hazrat Abu Bakrra arrived from a village he had been visiting near Medina. He went to the Holy Prophet’ssa home, saw his body and confirmed that he had indeed passed away, after which he left. He emerged whilst saying, ‘Allah the Almighty will not allow the Holy Prophetsa to die twice’, meaning one being the physical demise, whilst the other referring to the spiritual death of Muslims upon his demise.

He then went straight to the congregation of the Companions and said that he wished to say something to the people. Hazrat Umarra was standing with his sword in hand with the intention that if anyone announced the Holy Prophet’ssa demise, he would kill them.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra stood and made this very announcement to the people, saying:

َ َ ْ َ ً َّ َ ُ َّ َ ً َّ َ ُ ُ ُ ْ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ َ ‫ َو َم ْن ک‬،‫ات‬ ‫ان‬ ‫من کان ِمنکم َیعبد م َّحم َداَ ف ِﺈ َّن محم َدا قد ُم‬ ‫ی ْع ُب ُد الل َہ ف ِﺈ ّن الل َہ َح ٌّی لا یَ ُموت‬

“Meaning, ‘Let whoever worshipped Muhammad hear that Muhammadsa has passed away. Let whoever worshipped Allah rejoice, for He is Living and can never die.’

“Then, (as mentioned earlier), he recited the following verse from the Holy Quran: his knowledge and bravery both became apparent.” (Al-Mawahib al-Laduniyyah, Vol. 4, p.

457, Al-Maktab al-Islami, 2004)

His bravery was demonstrated by his ability to endure the tragedy, and his knowledge was demonstrated through his explanation of the verses of the Holy Quran.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “It is recorded in books of traditions and history that the demise of the Holy Prophetsa had such a profound impact upon the Companions that they were utterly shocked, rendering some unable to speak, some unable to walk, some unable to maintain control over their senses and thoughts; in fact, some were so deeply impacted by this shock that within the span of a few days, they passed away one after the other.

“Hazrat Umarra was so severely impacted by this shock, that he denied the news of the Holy Prophet’ssa demise altogether and stood with his sword in his hand declaring, ‘If anyone says that the Holy Prophetsa has passed away I will kill them. He has merely been summoned just as Mosesas had been.

Just as he returned after 40 days, so too will the Holy Prophetsa return after some time. Those who raise allegations against him and are hypocrites will be killed and crucified.’ He made this declaration with such passion that none of the Companions felt the strength to refute him. In fact, seeing this passion from Hazrat Umarra convinced some of them that indeed, the truth is that the Holy Prophetsa has not passed away and this joy was apparent from their expressions.

“Thus, people felt either dejected or elated. Upon seeing this state of affairs, some of the more prudent Companions immediately sent a Companion to bring back Hazrat Abu Bakrra, who had travelled to a village near Medina with the permission of the Holy Prophetsa once his health had slightly improved. The Companion had only just set out when he met Hazrat Abu Bakrra

who was on his way back. Upon seeing him, tears began flowing from the eyes of the Companion who had set out to deliver the news and wept uncontrollably. Hazrat Abu Bakrra understood what had happened and asked the Companion whether the Holy Prophetsa had passed away. He explained that Hazrat Umarra was declaring that whoever said the Holy Prophetsa had passed away, he would behead them with his sword.

“Upon this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra proceeded to the Holy Prophet’ssa home. He removed the sheet that was covering the blessed body of the Holy Prophetsa in order to confirm that he had indeed passed away. The grief of losing his beloved drew Hazrat Abu Bakrra to tears, as he bent down and kissed the Holy Prophet’ssa forehead and said, ‘By God, Allah the Almighty will not cause you to die twice. The world has suffered by your loss, such suffering which has never been endured upon the demise of any other prophet. Your being is beyond description and your grandeur is such that no amount of mourning will lessen our grief. Had we possessed the power to hinder your demise then all of us would have sacrificed our lives in exchange for saving yours from death.’

“After saying this, he covered the Holy Prophetsa with the sheet and then proceeded towards the area where Hazrat Umarra was sitting with a group of Companions and he was telling them that the Holy Prophetsa had not passed away and was still alive.

When he reached there, Hazrat Abu Bakrra asked Hazrat Umarra to be silent, however, he did not listen and continued speaking.

Thus, Hazrat Abu Bakrra moved to one side and began informing people that the Holy Prophetsa had passed away. The Companions moved away from Hazrat Umarra and began gathering around Hazrat Abu Bakrra; eventually, Hazrat Umarra had no choice but to listen to him. (As has been mentioned earlier), Hazrat Abu Bakrra then said:

َ َ َ۠​َ ّ ‫َو َما ُم َح َّم ٌد ِالَّا َر ُسوۡ ٌل ۚ َق ۡد َخ َل ۡت ِم ۡن َق ۡب ِل ِہ‬ ‫الرُ ُس ُل ؕ افائِ ۡن ّمات‬ ُ َ َ َ​َۡ ُ َ َ َۡ ‫ا ۡو ق ِت َل انقل ۡب ُت ۡم َع ٰۤلی ا ۡعق ِابک ۡم ؕ َو َم ۡن ّینق ِل ۡب َع ٰلی َع ِق َب ۡی ِہ‬ َ ٰ َّ َ ُّ َ َ ۡ ّ ُ ّٰ ً َ ّٰ َ ُ َّ َ َ ُ ‫االن‬ ‫اس‬ ‫ ی ٰٓـﺄیہ‬،‫فل ۡن یض ّر الل َہ ش ۡیئا ؕ َو َس َی ۡج ِزی اللہ الش ِک ِرین‬ َ َ ْ َ ً َّ َ ُ َّ َ ً َّ َ ُ ُ ُ ْ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ َ ‫ َو َم ْن ک‬،‫ات‬ ‫ان‬ ‫من کان ِمنکم یعبد محمدا ف ِﺈن محمدا قد م‬ َّ َ َ َّ ُ َ َ ‫ی ْع ُب ُد الل َہ ف ِﺈ ّن الل َہ َح ٌّی لا یَ ُموت‬

“Meaning, ‘And Muhammad is only a Messenger. Verily all Messengers have passed away before him. If then he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels?

Surely you will die, and surely they too will die. O people! Let whoever worshipped Muhammadsa hear that Muhammadsa has passed away. Whoever worshipped Allah should remember that He is Living and cannot die.’

“When Hazrat Abu Bakrra quoted both of the verses just mentioned and informed people that the Holy Prophetsa had passed away, the Companions realised the reality and immediately began weeping. Hazrat Umarra himself states, ‘When Hazrat Abu Bakrra proved the Holy Prophet’ssa demise through verses of the Holy Quran, it felt to me as if those two verses had been revealed on that very day, and my knees became weak, almost unable to bear the weight of my body.

I began stumbling and the immense shock caused me to fall to the ground.’” (Dawat alAmir, Anwar al-‘Ulum, Vol. 7, pp. 345-347)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states regarding the first consensus among the Muslims on this occasion: “All prophets prior to the Holy Prophetsa passed away, including Jesusas. When the Holy Prophetsa passed away, the Muslims were in a state of anguish and the grief became unbearable. This same anguish led Hazrat Umarra to draw out his sword while saying, ‘if anyone says that the Holy Prophetsa has passed away, I will behead them. The Holy Prophetsa has not passed away, rather, just like Mosesas, he has gone to meet God and will return to eliminate

َ َ َ​َ ّ ‫َو َما ُم َح َّم ٌد إلَّا َر ُسول� َق ۡد َخ َل ۡت ِمن َق ۡب ِل ِہ‬ ‫الرُ ُس ُل ۚ أف ِﺈیْن ّمات‬ ُ َٰ َ َ ُ َ ِ َ​َ ۚ ‫أ ۡو ق ِت َل انقل ۡب ُت ۡم َعل ٰٓی أ ۡعق ِبک ۡم‬

“‘And Muhammad is only a Messenger.

Verily all Messengers have passed away before him. (How then would he not pass away as well?). If then he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels (and leave Islam)?’

Hazrat Umarra states, ‘When Hazrat Abu Bakrra recited this verse of the Holy Quran, it opened my eyes and it felt as if this verse had only just been revealed. It became clear to me that the Holy Prophetsa had passed away. My feet began to tremble and I fell to the ground.’”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra continues: “This is the only Ijma‘ [consensus] of the companions because, at the time, all the companions were present. In reality, the Muslims never experienced a time like this because, after that, they never gathered together in the same manner. In this consensus, Hazrat Abu Bakrra recited the following verse: “‘Muhammad was but a messenger, verily all messengers before him have passed away. Therefore, it is not an objectionable matter if he too passes away.’ And all of the companions agreed with him.” (Mas‘alah-eWahi-o-Nubuwwat ke Muta‘allaq Islami Nazariyyah, Anwar al-‘Ulum, Vol. 23, pp. 327-328)

Whilst explaining this in relation to Hazrat Abu Bakrra, the Promised Messiahas says: “Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra has done such a great favour to this Ummah that it cannot be adequately thanked. Had he not gathered all the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, in the Prophet’ssa Mosque and recited this verse to them that all the previous Prophets had died, the Ummah would have perished. For, in that case, today’s mischievous ulema would have contended that the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, too believed that Hazrat ‘Isa is alive. But now, due to Siddique

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AL HAKAM | Friday 25 March 2022 the Great presenting this aforementioned verse, an ijma‘ has formed among all the Companions that all past Prophets had died—even couplets were composed reflecting this consensus. May God shower thousands of blessings upon Abu Bakr’s soul. He saved all souls from perdition. All the Companions were included in this ijma‘, not even a single one of them was out of it.

It was the first ijma‘ of the Companions and was an act deserving of the utmost gratitude.

There is a mutual similarity between Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, and the Promised Messiah, namely, the promise of God, in the Holy Qur’an, regarding both of them was that they would appear at a time when a state of fear will prevail upon Islam and a chain of apostasy will start. So, that is exactly what happened in the time of Hazrat Abu Bakr, and in the time of the Promised Messiah. That is, in the time of Hazrat Abu Bakr hundreds of ignorant Arabs had turned apostate after the demise of the Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and there remained only two mosques where prayers were held. Hazrat Abu Bakr re-established them on Islam.

Similarly, in the time of the Promised Messiah hundreds of thousands of people renounced Islam and became Christians.

Both these circumstances are mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, that is, they are mentioned by way of a prophecy.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya, Part 5, pp. 379-380 footnote, [English edition])

With regards to the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, it is mentioned that when the noble companions learnt of the Holy Prophet’ssa demise, they gathered in the Saqifah [courtyard] of the Banu Sa‘idah.

In this gathering, they were discussing the issue of Khilafat. The Ansar gathered in favour of Sa‘d bin Ubadahra, the leader of the Khazraj. (Muhammad al-Salabi, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddiqra aur Karname [Pakistan: Maktabat al-Furqan], p. 174)

At the time, Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadahra was unwell. After mentioning his considerable sacrifices and services for Islam, the Ansar declared him to be worthy of Khilafat.

Nonetheless, after declaring him to be worthy of Khilafat, the Ansar had not yet pledged allegiance to him when a person from among the Ansar posed the question that what would happen if the Muhajirin did not accept their Khilafat. Upon this, a person suggested that there ought to be one Khalifa from among the Ansar and one Khalifa from among the Muhajirin.

However, Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadahra brushed this aside declaring it to be a weakness on part of the Aus tribe.

The Ansar were still debating the issue of Khilafat in the courtyard of the Banu Sa‘idah when Hazrat Umar bin al-Khattabra, Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin al-Jarrahra and other prominent companions were gathered in Masjid Nabawi, coming to terms with the tragic loss of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Alira and other members of the Holy Prophet’ssa family were occupied with making the funeral preparations. No one had even thought about the matter of Khilafat and were unaware that the Ansar had gathered together to deliberate on the matter and wished to elect a leader from among them. (Siddiq Akbar, Muhammad Husain Haikal, translated by Anjum Sultan Shahbaz, pp. 85, 86, Shirkat Printing Press Lahore)

In al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, it is written that Hazrat Umarra came to Hazrat Abu Ubaidah

bin Al-Jarrahra and said, “Extend your hand so that I can pledge allegiance. For you have been declared the ‘Custodian of the Faith’ by the Holy Prophetsa himself.” Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra said to Hazrat Umarra: “Ever since you have accepted Islam, I have never seen an oversight on your part like this. Will you pledge allegiance to me, whilst we have ‘Siddiq’ and ‘One of the two’ (i.e. Hazrat Abu Bakrra) present among us?” (Ibn Sa‘d, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 3, Dhikr Bai’at Abi Bakrra [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1990], p. 135)

During this conversation, they learnt about the gathering of the Ansar. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra sent a message to Hazrat Abu Bakrra informing him that there was an important matter to resolve. Hazrat Abu Bakrra refused to come outside since he was preoccupied with ensuring the funeral arrangements. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra sent another message inside saying, “There is an urgent matter for which your presence is vital.” Upon this Hazrat Abu Bakrra came outside and asked Hazrat Umarra what could be more important than the burial arrangements of the Holy Prophetsa for which he was calling him. Hazrat Umarra said, “Do you know the Ansar have gathered in the courtyard of the Banu Sa‘idah, and have decided to elect Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadahra as the Khalifa. A person from among them said that there ought to be one leader from among them and one leader from among the Quraish.” Upon hearing this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra reached the courtyard of the Banu Sa‘idah, where they were in the midst of the debate. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra, Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra went and sat among them.

(Muhammad Husain Haikal, Hazrat Sayyiduna Abu Bakrra [Lahore, Pakistan: Shirkat Printing Press, 2007], pp. 86-87), (Al-Hajj Hakeem Ghulam Nabi, Sayyiduna Siddiq Akbarra [Lahore, Pakistan: Adabiyyat], p. 72-73)

In one narration, Hazrat Umarra stated: “We went to the Ansar. When we reached near to them, we met with two righteous people, Uwaim bin Sa‘idah and Ma‘an bin Adi. They both informed us of the intentions of the Ansar. They then asked, ‘Where are you headed to?’ to which we said, ‘We are going to see our Ansar brothers.’ They said, ‘You do not need to go to them, you can solve the matter amongst yourselves.’ We said to them, ‘By God, we will certainly go to them.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Hudud, Bab Rajam al-Hubla min al-Zina…, Hadith 6830), (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi, Hadith 4021)

Nonetheless, they went to them. Hazrat Umarra further says: “We reached the Ansar. In my mind, I thought of a speech that I would deliver before the Ansar. Thus, when we reached there and I was about to say what I had thought, Hazrat Abu Bakrra said to me, ‘Wait until I have spoken. After that, say whatever you wish to say.’ Then Hazrat Abu Bakrra began speaking and said everything that I had wanted to say, in fact, he said even more.” (Muhammad Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Tarikh

al-Tabari, Vol. 2 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah, 1987], p. 242)

With regards to what Hazrat Abu Bakr said in his speech, it is recorded briefly in the following narration; Abdullah bin Abdir Rahman states: “After praising Allah and glorifying Him, Hazrat Abu Bakrra said: ‘Verily Allah sent Muhammadsa as a messenger and a guardian towards His creation so that they ra

can worship Allah and affirm His Oneness.

Prior to this, they would worship various gods, and would say that these gods would intercede on their behalf and bestow benefit on them, even though they were carved from wood and stone.’ Then Hazrat Abu Bakrra recited the following verse:

َ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ُّ ُ َ َ َ ّٰ ُ َ ُ ُ ۡ َ َ َ ُ ‫نف ُع ُه ۡم َويَقُول‬ ‫ويعبدون ِمن د‬ ‫ون‬ ‫ون الل ُِه َما لا ي َضرهم ول ّٰا ي‬ َ ‫َه ٰٓـ ُؤ ِلَٓا ِء شف َع ٰٓـ ُؤنا ع‬ ۚ ‫ند الل ِه‬ ِ

“‘And they worship, instead of Allah, that which neither harms them nor profits them; and they say, ‘These are our intercessors with Allah.’

َ َ َ َّ َ ۡ ُ ّٰ ‫َما ن ۡع ُب ُد ُه ۡم ِإلا ل ُِيق ّ ِربُونٓا ِإلَى الل ِه زلف ٰٓى‬

“‘We serve them only that they may bring us near to Allah in station.’”

“He then stated, ‘Arabs would dislike it if someone abandoned the faith of their forefathers. Thus, from among the Holy Prophet’ssa tribe, Allah the Almighty primarily bestowed the opportunity upon the Muhajirin to attest to the truthfulness of Holy Prophetsa and accept his message and support him in time of need. They remained steadfast with the Holy Prophetsa throughout the terrible persecution and rejection by his own people.’

“Hazrat Abu Bakrra further said: “‘Despite the fact that everyone opposed them and persecuted them. Yet, in spite of them being fewer in numbers, they never feared the oppression and the united front of their own people. They [i.e. the Muhajirin] were the first people on the face of the Earth to worship Allah [in Islam] and profess belief in Allah and His Messengersa. They are the friends and relatives of the Holy Prophetsa and after him, they are the worthiest of being granted this station. Except for a transgressor, no one would quarrel with them in this matter. O people of the Ansar! Your eminence and your acceptance of Islam first [collectively] cannot be denied. Your assistance of Allah’s faith and His Messengersa is the reason why Allah was pleased with you. Furthermore, it was ordained for the migration of Allah’s Messengersa to take place towards you. The majority of his wives and companions live here. After the initial Muhajirin, there is no equal to you in rank and status. The leader is from among us and you are the viziers.

You will be consulted in every important matter and we will not make any important decision without consulting you first.’”

(Muhammad Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 2 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1987], p. 242)

The speech delivered by Hazrat Abu Bakrra in the courtyard of Banu Sa‘idah has been mentioned in Sirat al-Halabiyyah as follows: Hazrat Abu Bakrra stated: “As far as the matter of Khilafat is concerned, the Arabs will not accept anyone other than from among the Quraish. The Quraish, in terms of their lineage and tribe and in their land, which is Mecca, have always occupied a lofty and high status.

Through our lineage we are connected with all the Arabs because there is not a single tribe which does not have a close relation in some way or another with the Quraish. We, the Muhajirin, were the first to accept Islam and belong to the same clan and family of the Holy Prophetsa and have close ties with him. We are from the family of the Prophetsa and thus have a greater right to Khilafat.”

(Ali bin Burhan al-Din al-Halabi, Al-Sirah

al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, Bab ma yudhkaru fi Muddat Maradih… [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 2002], pp. 504-505) Whilst mentioning these same incidents, Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal writes in his Musnad about the role played by Hazrat Abu Bakrra. After mentioning about Hazrat Abu Bakrra arriving on the occasion of the Holy Prophet’ssa demise and delivering a speech to the Muslims and announcing the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, it narrates as follows: “After delivering his speech and announcing the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra quickly left for the courtyard of the Banu Sa‘idah. Upon reaching there, Hazrat Abu Bakrra initiated the conversation and recited whatever had been revealed in the Holy Quran regarding the Ansar and did not leave anything out. He also mentioned all the excellences the Holy Prophetsa had said about the Ansar.

“Thereafter, Hazrat Abu Bakrra stated, ‘You all recall that the Messengersa of Allah stated that if all the people walked through a valley and the Ansar walked through another valley, he would walk through the valley of the Ansar.’ Hazrat Abu Bakrra then turned towards Hazrat Sa‘dra and stated, ‘O Sa‘d! Do you recall the time when you were also sat there and the Holy Prophetsa stated that the Quraish have a greater right to Khilafat and that the pious people will be led by the pious people of the Quraish and the rebellious ones will be under the rule of the rebellious people of the Quraish?’ Upon this, Hazrat Sa‘dra replied, ‘Yes, you indeed have spoken the truth. We are the viziers and you are the leaders.’” (Ahmad bin Hanbal, Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 1, Musnad Abi Bakrra, Hadith 18 [Cairo, Egypt: Dar al-Hadith, 1994], p. 185, 189)

These accounts will insha’Allah continue in the future.

I would like to draw attention towards prayers in light of the current situation of the world. The situation has become extremely perilous and continues in severity. It is not just one country, in fact many countries will become embroiled in this conflict if it continues and its horrifying consequences will last for generations to come.

May God enable the people to recognise God Almighty and not to play with human lives for the sake of fulfilling their worldly desires.

In any case, we can only pray and admonish them, and we have been continually doing so for a long time now.

But especially during these days, Ahmadis should pray extensively that may Allah the Almighty safeguard humanity from the horrifying conditions of war and the unimaginable destruction that could take place.

After the Friday prayers, I shall lead a funeral prayer in absentia of respected Khushi Muhammad Shakir Sahib, who was a missionary of the Community. He passed away a few days ago at the age of 69:

َ ‫إنَّا ل ِ ّٰل ِه َوإنَّٓا إل َ ۡي ِه رٰج ُع‬ ‫ون‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ

[Verily, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return] By the grace of Allah the Almighty he was a Musi. Ahmadiyyat entered their family through their paternal grandfather, Hazrat Maulvi Kareem Bakhsh Sahibra, who was a companion of the Promised Messiahas.

He accepted Ahmadiyyat upon witnessing

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Friday 25 March 2022 | AL HAKAM

Another issue often raised by critics of Islam is of women’s rights and it is often alleged that Islam denies women’s rights.

Nothing could be further from the truth!

Rather, Islam established the rights of women and girls for the first time. At a time, when women and girls were discriminated against and often looked down upon, the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) spoke of their great value and high status in society. He instructed his followers to ensure that girls were educated and respected. Indeed, he said that if a person had three daughters who they educated and guided in the best way they would be sure to enter paradise.

- Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

the sign of the plague. The brother of Hazrat Maulvi Kareem Bakhsh Sahib’sra wife, Hazrat Haji Muhammad Abdullah Sahibra also had the good fortune of doing the Bai‘at at the hand of the Promised Messiahas. In the list of companions of the Promised Messiahas published in Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 8, Hazrat Haji Muhammad Abdullah Sahib’sra name is 23rd on the list. (Zameemah Tarikh Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 8, p. 11)

With regards to the details of Khushi Muhammad Shakir Sahib; he passed his matriculation exam in 1969 and then devoted his life for waqf and entered Jamia Ahmadiyya. He obtained his Shahid degree from Jamia in 1977 and passed his Arabi Fazal exam in 1978. He then served the Jamaat and in 1987 he obtained a master’s in Islamiyat.

Aside from serving in various cities in Pakistan, he also had the opportunity to serve as a missionary in Guinea Conakry where he also obtained a diploma in the French language. Allah the Almighty blessed him with six sons and one of his sons, Nasir Islam Sahib is also a missionary of the community and is currently serving in Rabwah.

Khushi Muhammad Sahib had the opportunity to serve in various regions of Pakistan from 1977 to 1991. From 1991 to 2007, he served in Sierra Leone and Guinea

Conakry. After returning from there, he had the opportunity to serve in various offices in the Anjuman from 2008. He also had the opportunity to serve in Additional Nizarat Islah-o-Irshad Muqami and in Nizarat Umur-e-Aama.

Whilst serving in Africa many pious souls accepted Ahmadiyyat through him and many Jamaats were established. He was a very selfless and hardworking missionary.

Various people have related many faithinspiring accounts of his in the field of tabligh as to how Allah the Almighty helped him. He also had the opportunity to serve as an Aseer Rah-e-Maula [prisoner in the way of Allah] in July 1986 in a case related to the Kalimah Tayyibah.

His wife writes: “I can testify that throughout my whole life he never missed his prayer nor the tahajjud prayer. Whenever he would return from an official Jamaat trip, despite the fatigue and tiredness, he would ensure to offer his prayers and he would try to offer it in congregation. Even when his illness had greatly intensified and it was very difficult for him to walk, he would go to offer the prayers in congregation.

“He possessed countless qualities. He would always remain occupied in fulfilling the rights of Allah and the rights of His creation. He would be mindful of even the

minutest aspects of taqwa and had great love for Khilafat. He was very obedient, humble and modest. He had great respect for the missionaries and office-bearers and showed great love and affection to children.

He would generously spend on his relatives and looked after the poor. He had a great passion for tabligh. In the final days of his illness, when his health deteriorated quite a lot, he was taken to the emergency department for three nights and three days and when he would return home, even then he would not miss his tahajjud prayer. One day he came from the hospital and offered his Fajr prayer and then got ready and went to the office. When he was advised not to go, he would say that this was the duty of a waqf and therefore he should not be stopped from his work.”

His son, Nasir Islam, who is a missionary of the community states: “Ever since we can recall, we have observed our father offering the tahajjud prayer and demonstrating an exemplary level of obedience. Whether it be a senior office-bearer or junior, he would always show obedience. He would give sadaqah [charity] daily. He would always complete the tasks that were set for the day. He was extremely sociable and had a great passion for tabligh.”

He further states:

“I have observed my father that whilst in Africa, whether he was going to the mosque or returning, going for a walk, sitting in a hotel eating, or if he was sitting in a waiting room or if he met a police or military officer, he would never let an opportunity for tabligh go. If we saw someone coming, we would often say that now that our father has seen him that person cannot escape now and our father will certainly do tabligh to him.”

Another son of his states: “Our father told us that once in Africa he was facing a lot of challenges in the field of tabligh. He offered a lot of prayers and offered the tahajjud prayer. He then heard a voice whilst in prostration, ‘failure is not in my nature.’ Subsequently, the next day the challenge he was facing in his tabligh work was removed.”

In any case, many people have written accounts about him and all of them have said that he was very sociable, humble, devoted to worship and had a firm bond with Khilafat and perfect trust in Allah the Almighty. May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy. May He elevate his status and enable his children to continue his good deeds.

(Official Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International 18-24 March 2022, pp. 5-10.

Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | Sub-Editorial: Ataul Fatir Tahir, Aqeel Ahmed Kang | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2022