Al Hakam - 6 May 2022

‘The consolidation of Pakistan’: Lectures by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad on how Pakistan can see success Page 10

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The story of ‘The Martyr of Kabul’ by an eyewitness – Part II

The Islamic Economic System: New world order through Wasiyyat (The Will) – Part V

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Page 16

The philosophy of invoking durood on the Holy Prophet – Part IV

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022 | Issue CCXVI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7396

We must not rest until the Holy Prophet is included in our Eid celebration Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V delivers Eid-ul-Fitr sermon

The essence of worship َ​َ ْ َ َ ّ ٰ َّ َّ َ ‫ﺲ بْ ِن َمال ِﻚٍ ع ِن‬ ‫الن ِ� ِّي َصلى الل ُه َعل ْي ِه‬ ِ �‫عن أ‬ َ ُ ُ ّ َ ّ ْ َ ّ َ ‫اء ُم� الع َب‬ ُ ‫َو َسل َم قال الد َع‬ ‫اد ِة‬ ِ Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Supplication is the essence of worship.”

(Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Da‘wat ‘an Rasulillahsa, Hadith 3371)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

At 11:01 BST, on Monday, 2 May 2022, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in the Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad to lead the congregation in Eidul-Fitr prayer and then deliver the Eid sermon.

Around 1,500 people had gathered in Islamabad, which included residents of Islamabad and members of Aldershot, Farnham, Guildford and Bordon jamaats – men, women and children were present.

After the Eid prayer, Huzooraa recited the tashahud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, before reciting the following verse and its translation:

The blessings of prayer If prayer did not exist, man would have no means by which to attain perfect certainty in cognisance of the Divine.

It is through prayer that a person is blessed with revelation. It is through prayer that one engages in converse with God Almighty. With constant supplication, when man reaches the state of the inner-self being annihilated in God (fana) through belief in God’s unity, and with love, sincerity and purity, it is then that the Living God, Who is Hidden from the people, manifests Himself to such a one.”

َ ً ۡ َ ً َ ُ ۡ ُ ّٰ ۡ ‫َو‬ ‫اع ُب ُدوا الل َه َولَا تش ِرکوۡا ِب ٖﻪ ش ۡيئا ّو ِبالوَال َِدیۡ ِن ِا ۡﺣ َسانا ّو ِب ِذی‬ ُۡ ُۡ ُ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ‫ال� ۡر ٰبی َوال َي ٰت ٰمی َوال َم ٰس ِكي ِن َوال َجارِ ِذی ال� ۡر ٰبی َوال َجارِ ال ُجن ِﺐ‬ َ ُ​ُ َ َ​َ َّ َ َّ ۡ َ ۡۢ َ ۡ ‫الس ِب ۡي ِل � َو َما َملك ۡت ایۡ َمانك ۡم ؕ ِا ّن‬ ‫الصا ِﺣ ِﺐ ِبالجن ِﺐ واب ِن‬ ‫و‬ ّٰ َ َ � ‫الل َه لَا یُح ُّﺐ َم ۡن‬ َ‫ان ُم ۡخ َتالًا َف ُخوۡرا‬ ِ

“And worship Allah and associate naught with Him, and [show] kindness to parents, and to kindred, and orphans, and the needy, and to the neighbour that is a kinsman and the neighbour that is a stranger, and the companion by [your] side, and the wayfarer, and those whom your right hands possess.

Surely, Allah loves not the proud [and] the boastful.” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.38) Huzooraa then said that we were blessed to be celebrating Eid today; however, the real Eid for a momin (true believer) was not to wear new clothes, meet friends in a celebratory environment and disregard the

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

Blessed is the one who understands responsibility of prayers – to combine them quickly to be freed of this responsibility; in fact, some people did not even offer the Eid prayer. This was not something, Huzooraa said, that was said for the sake of it. In fact, Huzooraa had seen such people himself who were even too lazy to wake up for the Eid prayer.

On Eid, six prayers have been made compulsory, so much so that even women are instructed to attend the Eid prayer in the

mosque.

Huzooraa said that we should all pray for Ahmadis around the world, particularly in Pakistan who were not able to offer the Eid prayer, for various reasons, for example, Covid restrictions and other legal restrictions.

On Eid day, people can think that perhaps it is just a day of celebration. But Continued on next page >>

Reconcile with God. Adopt true selfrestraint. The heaven inspires awe by sending down calamities and the earth warns us with the emergence of epidemics. Blessed is one who understands.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 11-12)

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we should remember it is a day of offering our dues to Allah and our fellow humans.

Thus, we should endeavour to pursue such a celebration of Eid. In the Holy Quran, we have been reminded of such responsibilities. If we endeavour to focus on our obligations in light of the Quran and teachings of Islam on this day, then we have indeed attained our purpose in life.

In the verse Huzooraa recited, towards the end, Allah tells us of those who He dislikes – those who Allah dislikes have no faith and no spiritual leg to stand on. The Holy Prophetsa once said that Allah states, whosoever has even the slightest arrogance in them will not be permitted into Paradise.

The Holy Prophetsa then explained that arrogance was not to wear decent clothes and be clean as this was something we were required to do, but it was to consider others lower than you.

In this verse (which was recited at the outset) Allah reminds us of our obligations.

It is His right to be worshipped and to not be associated with any partner. Some people ask how this benefits Allah – the answer is that this does not benefit Allah; in fact, this is for our betterment and our moral and spiritual improvement and to keep us away from vice.

َ َۡ َۡ ۡ ۡ َ َ َّ َّ ‫الص ٰلوۃ تن ٰہی َع ِن الف ۡحشٓا ِء َوال ُمنک ِر‬ ‫ِان‬

“Prayer restrains [one] from indecency and manifest evil.” (Surah al-Ankabut, Ch.29: V.46) Thus, worship and prayer are of benefit to us and Allah rewards us as a result. In a tradition, it is stated that the Holy Prophetsa was asked of one good deed to keep one away from the Fire and enter one into Paradise.

The Holy Prophetsa replied to worship Allah and not to associate partners with Him and perform the obligations towards our fellow beings.

In another tradition, it is stated that the Holy Prophetsa said, whoever, for the sake of Allah, worshipped Him during two nights of Eid, such a person’s heart would be given eternal life. This is, indeed, an extraordinary glad tiding.

Those who think that as Ramadan has ended and so, they will now wake up when they wish and not bother to rise for Tahajjud or Fajr prayers should rethink. We should not make illnesses – for example, Covid – an excuse to not go to the mosque. Now that it is Eid, we should endeavour to populate the mosques or at least offer the morning prayer and other prayers in congregation at home with our children. Our prayers should be beautified. Eid should not be a reason for us to set aside everything we did in Ramadan.

The verse recited at the start tells us to show true gratitude and reverence for our parents as the sacrifices they made for our upbringing can never be returned. We should not make even the slightest negative remark to them. We should serve them well in all matters other than anything contradictory to religion. Even then, it should be done with respect. This is the treatment Islam teaches towards parents.

Then, in another place, it has been said that if someone wants to be rewarded abundantly, then they should show graciousness towards relatives and fellow beings.

Scenes from Eid-ul-Fitr in Islamabad, UK

It is our duty to do good unto others.

This is something that has been instructed

by Allah and His Prophetsa.

Some husbands stop their wives from meeting their family or meeting their parents. Some husbands hold onto grudges or remember that at one time, so and so said something negative to them. This is utter ignorance. We should avoid such tendencies. Every Ahmadi must bear this in mind.

The relationship between husbands and wives ought to be improved. Husbands and wives have been issued separate guidance on how to discharge their duties.

Aside from this, every Ahmadi ought to help orphans. If someone doesn’t personally know any orphans, then there is a separate fund in the Jamaat for orphans – the Yatama Fund – to which they can make donations.

The Holy Prophetsa said that he who helped orphans would be like this with him in Paradise – and Huzooraa indicated, just as the Holy Prophetsa did, with his fingers as

to how close such a person would be to the Holy Prophetsa. Every believing man and woman ought to pay attention to all of this and Eid should come as a reminder for this to be practised throughout the year.

The dues towards our neighbours should also be given attention. The Promised Messiahas once said that a neighbour was someone who lived within a 100-mile radius of you. Such is the definition of a neighbour and such is the responsibility of an Ahmadi Muslim to pay attention to the obligations of neighbours. Some people have better conduct towards irreligious neighbours and harbour rancour towards Ahmadi neighbours – this mindset must be shunned.

In Western countries, every now and then, questions are raised and fingers are pointed at the teachings of Islam. We must address these in the best possible manner.

Then, we must show good morals to those around us. These are all rights that we must pay attention to. Islam also talks of the rights of subjects, employees and those less

privileged than us.

Islam teaches us to exercise adl (justice).

Islam teaches us to even bear testimony against our own if it is in keeping with adl.

These are all the traits and characteristics that can give birth to a society that resembles Paradise. The summary of all of this is to remember to pay heed to the rights of others as opposed to our own. When we do this, Eid can be celebrated all year round rather than on a single day.

The world is gradually heading towards destruction, and this is all because man is not paying heed to the rights of others and the requirements of justice. Had this been the case, then we would not have seen the destruction of Iraq, Syria Afghanistan and now Ukraine. To inform the world of all this is our responsibility.

The world is persistent in turning towards destruction. They do not know that this will not serve them well in the long run; rather, it will be a means of their own destruction too. It is hopeful thinking to

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As we celebrate Eid, we should also think of the people of the world as a whole and pray for them.

Do not merely be content with your own happiness.

Today, the world is heading for disaster. We are concerned about it and we should be because it is also our duty to save humanity.

consider that nations will not use nuclear weapons. But whether they use them or not, we must remind everyone of the reality and what we must do to avoid this. We must use this as a means of tabligh. Instead of wasting time on social media, we must use our resources, like social media, and encourage people to turn to Allah. The only way to protect mankind from total annihilation is to bring them back to God. This is the Eid that we must work towards and this is the Eid for which the Promised Messiahas came.

Huzooraa said: “As we celebrate Eid, we should also think of the people of the world as a whole and pray for them. Do not merely be content with your own happiness. Today, the world is heading for disaster. We are concerned about it and we should be because it is also our duty to save humanity.

“All this is happening because the requirements of justice are not being met and the rights of others are not being taken care of. Had all the covenants been fulfilled, if justice had been established at every level, if there had been a genuine effort to establish the rights of people, if justice had been established in the true sense, if the dues had been paid in a befitting manner, then we would not have seen the destruction of Iraq, nor the destruction of Syria, Libya, Yemen or Afghanistan, nor would we have witnessed what is happening in Ukraine and what has already happened to her. Thus, as I said, gaining a proper understanding regarding the fulfilment of rights, correctly informing the world about the teaching of Islam, educating them about it while also practising it ourselves, will open new avenues of preaching and will also be a means of the world’s salvation. We must pay special attention to this.

“The world seems to be bent upon selfdestruction. They are acting in a reckless manner. In their estimation, worldly power, its display and asserting their own supremacy is the only guarantee of their life and survival. However, they do not understand that instead of ensuring their survival, this path is solidifying their destruction. It also seems to be wishful thinking that nuclear weapons will not be used or are less likely to be used. They are already threatening each other in this regard. In any case, Allah knows best whether such weapons will be used or not, but it seems certain that these people are rapidly moving towards destruction and ruin and its eventual outcome will be much devastation.

“There is only one thing that can save the world from destruction and that is recognising the Creator and turning to Him. The world is unaware and ignorant of this fact. It is the responsibility of Ahmadis to guide them towards this path and to tell them that – not their strength – but the fulfilment of the rights owed to God and those owed to His creation is the only guarantee of their survival. The general populace needs to be made aware of the impending disaster that their leaders are driving them into.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra once said that Eid can only be a true Eid if it is the Eid of the Holy Prophetsa. If we celebrate Eid and the Holy Prophetsa does not celebrate Eid, then it cannot be called a true Eid. Even though 1,300 years have passed since his demise, if the Holy Prophetsa is not included in our Eid celebration, then it is of no benefit.

Eid does not mean consuming sweet dishes and having a merry time; rather, it can only manifest when we spread the teachings of the Quran and Islam. If we pay attention

to our responsibilities, the Holy Prophetsa will be pleased that the mission he was assigned has been served well. We cannot say for certain that the passion for tabligh that we possess has been instilled in the next generation. Huzooraa then said that we must ensure that we pass on the same fervour and desire for tabligh that we have to the next generation. Only until this is achieved can we rest.

Huzooraa said that in the dua (silent prayer) following the sermon, we should remember the aseeran-e-rah-e-Maula (prisoners in the way of Allah) and families of shuhada (martyrs in the way of Islam Ahmadiyyat) in our prayers, as well as those who sacrifice their wealth for the Jamaat, waqifeen-e-zindagi (life devotees) and missionaries. May Allah accept our humble efforts and bless them. May we soon see the day when the mission of the Holy Prophetsa, i.e. Islam, triumphs in the world. Amin.

Thereafter, Huzooraa led everyone in silent prayer. Huzooraa then visited the marquee where women and children were present and conveyed his salaam and “Eid mubarak”. Huzooraa also prayed at the graves of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and Hazrat Syeda Asifa Begum Sahiba, wife of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh. (Report prepared by Al Hakam)

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Answers to Khatam al-Nabiyyin, Quran recitation during salat, effects of Everyday lunar eclipse on pregnancy, and pigIssues Part XXXIII

to-human organ transplant

Guidance regarding basic Islamic issues – which Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa has given on various occasions in his written correspondence and during MTA programmes – is being officially published below for everyone’s benefit.

Effects of lunar eclipse on pregnancy A lady sent a quote about the effects of a lunar eclipse on pregnant women from the commentary of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa. She wrote, “Some people also say that during a lunar eclipse a pregnant woman should not sleep nor use a knife etc. What is the truth behind this?”

In a letter dated 10 March 2021, Huzooraa provided the following reply to this question: “Allah the Exalted states in the Holy Quran that He has subjected the moon, the sun, and other stars and planets to humankind by His command. Hence, the rays and particles emanating from these celestial bodies affect the earth and the objects on the earth in many different ways.

[For example,] looking at the sun under normal circumstances will not always have an immediate adverse effect on our eyesight, but looking directly at the sun in some cases such as during an eclipse can lead to a loss of vision.

“Similarly, we observe that sunlight is effective in treating a variety of earthly ailments and that it affects fruits, flowers, vegetables and crops in different ways.

Likewise, moonlight also affects a variety of vegetables and fruits and the development of their sweetness.

“Although current scientific research denies that lunar eclipses affect women

during pregnancy, scientists certainly do acknowledge that moonlight affects human sleep [for example] and also that trillions of a special kind of particles called neutrinos, emanating from the sun, enter the human body and that when [some of them] are absorbed by the atoms in the body, those atoms are transmuted into new forms but also that this transmutation has no adverse effect on the human body or the foetus in a pregnant woman. [“Eclipse Misconceptions” (NASA), accessed 25 April 2022, https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/eclipsemisconceptions] “Human knowledge and scientific research are of very little significance when compared to the infinite knowledge of Allah the Exalted. We know that scientific [theories] have changed over time and they continue to do so.

“Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra writes: “‘Although day and night are expressions of celestial bodies, there are also other effects of the moon, the sun and other stars.

They also have effects on the world such as electric and magnetic effects that manifest themselves on human beings by means other than [for example] rays that are visible to eyes. Moreover, there are many other effects that science is discovering on a daily basis and many that it may never discover at all.’ (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 4, p. 138) “In his various writings, the Promised Messiahas has also covered in great detail the topic of the influence of the moon, the sun and other stars and planets on the earth and

its inhabitants in the light of the teachings of the Holy Quran. In his book Tohfah-eGolarwiyyah, Huzooras writes: “‘These stars are not only for adornment as people generally assume, but they have certain effects as is evident from the word ًۡ ‫[ ِﺣفﻈا‬hifzan] mentioned in the verse:

ًۡ ۡ ُّ َ َ َّ َّ َّ َ َ ‫الدن َيا ِب َم َص ِاب ۡي َﺢ َو ِﺣفﻈا‬ ‫و زینا السمٓاء‬

“‘[“And We adorned the lowest heaven with lamps (for light) and for protection.”

(Surah Ha Mim al-Sajdah, Ch.41: V.13)].

It means that these stars play a role in the protection and the preservation of the order of the universe, the same kind of role that medicine and food play in human health.

[However, their role] has no share in the divine omnipotence; rather, all these things are as if dead before the Supreme Power of God. These things can do nothing except by the command of Allah. Their effects are in the Hands of God Almighty. Therefore, the actual truth is that stars have effects that manifest themselves on earth. Thus, no one in the world is more ignorant than someone who acknowledges the effects of violets and lilies and turbith and scammonies and cassia fistula, but denies the effects of the stars which are the foremost place of the manifestation of the splendour and the wonders of the Hand of Nature and about ًۡ which God Himself has used the word ‫ ِﺣفﻈا‬. “‘These people who are totally immersed in ignorance consider this intellectual dispensation as shirk. They do not know that the Law of God Almighty in the world is that He did not create anything in vain, useless or ineffective. Since He has declared that everything has been created for mankind, please elaborate, what is the use for mankind of the lowest heaven being filled with millions of stars? Hence, God’s saying that all these things have been created for mankind, certainly draws our attention to the fact that these objects have particular effects that manifest themselves on human life and civilisation such as what the classical thinkers have written that the earth was very uneven in the beginning and God levelled it with the influence of the stars.’ (Tohfahe-Golarviyyah, Ruhani Khazain Vol. 17, footnote, pp. 282-283) while “Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, explaining this issue, writes:

“‘It should be noted that scientific research has so far discovered through the [spectroscope], a device which is used to separate the rays of light [into a spectrum], that there are certain types of elements on certain stars and certain other types exist on others. This shows that not only light but also the effects of various elements continue to descend on the world along with light and they continue to have different effects on the minds and faculties of earth’s inhabitants. The effects of the moon’s rays continue to manifest themselves on the earth in different ways. There is a widespread belief in our country that a total lunar eclipse affects pregnant women.

Therefore, pregnant women do not go out of the room at such times. Although it is generally considered a superstition, I have given special consideration to this issue and I have discovered that after a total lunar eclipse, the labour of many women is very painful and many deaths occur among them after it. I cannot say that women who suffer are the ones who see the moon at the time [of the eclipse] or whether it affects them even without seeing it. I have, nonetheless, observed this many times and have told it to others who have corroborated it with what they have experienced.’ (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 4, pp. 138-139).

“Thus, the effects of the moon, the sun and other stars and planets on the earth and its inhabitants are well-established, but they have nothing to do with the use of a pregnant woman’s knife etc. during an eclipse or whether she sleeps at that time or not. These are mere superstitions.”

Quran recitation during salat Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa was asked for guidance on reading a portion of the Holy Quran in addition to Surah al-Fatihah in the third and fourth rak‘ah of the sunnah prayers.

In a letter dated 10 March 2021, Huzooraa gave the following reply: “We find clear statements in the ahadith in favour of reading a portion of the Holy Quran in addition to Surah al-Fatihah in the first two rak‘ahs of the fardh prayers.

However, we find no such statement at all in ahadith, especially in Sahih Bukhari

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and Sahih Muslim, which would make it compulsory to read a portion of the Holy Quran in addition to Surah al-Fatihah in all four rak‘ahs of the sunnah prayers.

“Jurists differ on this issue. Hence, followers of the Maliki and Hanbali schools read a portion of the Holy Quran in addition to Surah al-Fatihah in all of the rak‘at of the sunnah prayers, while those who follow the Hanafi and Shafi‘i orders do not read any portion of the Holy Quran in addition to Surah al-Fatihah in the third and fourth rak‘ah.

“According to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, as far as this issue is concerned, there is no difference between fardh and sunnah prayers: Just as a portion of the Holy Quran is recited in addition to Surah al-Fatihah only in the first two rak‘ahs of the fardh prayers, so too will a portion of the Holy Quran be recited in addition to Surah alFatihah only in the first two rak‘ahs of the sunnah prayers. Surah al-Fatihah alone should suffice in the third and fourth rak‘ah.

And that is my position too.”

Khatam al-Nabiyyin Someone sent an interpretation of the Holy Prophet’ssa saying, “I was Khatam alNabiyyin even when Adamas was still in the very early stages of his creation,” to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa. He then sought guidance on this issue and also requested Huzooraa for references to two ahadith relating to this topic.

In a letter dated 10 March 2021, Huzooraa replied as follows: “You have inferred a point from the following two sayings of the Holy Prophetsa regarding his extraordinary and exalted status as Khatam al-Nabiyyin: ٌ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ ّ َّ ُ َ َ ٌ ْ ُ ْ َ ّ ٰ َ ْ ْ ّ ‫آد َم ل ُمنجَ ِدل فِي‬ ‫ِإنِي ِعند الل ِه مكتوب خاتم الن ِب ِيين و ِإن‬ َ ‫ط‬ ‫ين ِت ِه‬ ِ “‘Verily, I was [already] ordained as Khatam al-Nabiyyin in the sight of Allah when Adam[as] was still kneaded in his clay.’

(Mishkat al-Masabih, Kitab al-Fadail, Bab Fadail Sayyidi l-Musralin) َ َ َْ ْ ُ َْ َ َ َ َ َ ‫ل ْو لاک ل َما خلقت الافلاک‬ “This one is a qudsi hadith and it translates as follows: ‘Were it not for thee (O Muhammadsa), I would not have created the heavens.’ (Ruh-ul-Ma‘ani, by ‘Allamah Alusi, Part I, Tafsir of Surah al-Fatihah, Dar Ihya

al-Turath al-‘Arabi, Beirut, 1999, p. 70) “You are right in deducing from these ahadith that 124,000 messengers came after the Holy Prophetsa had been exalted to the station of Khatam al-Nabiyyin and it was after this that Allah the Exalted created the heavens and the earth. This has been mentioned by scholars of the classical period and is also documented in the Community’s literature.

“Hazrat Muhammad Qasim Nanautavi, the founder of Deoband, wrote: “‘Firstly, one should know the meaning of Khatam al-Nabiyyin so that there is no difficulty in understanding the answer.

Hence, according to lay people, the Holy Prophet’ssa being khatam means that his era came after the era of the past prophets and that he is the last prophet. However, it is apparent to those endowed with insight that coming in a particular chronological order holds no honour in itself. How then can the verse:

َّ َ َ َ َ ّٰ َ ْ ُ َ ْ ٰ َ َ ‫النب ّي‬ ‫ين‬ ِ ِ ‫ول ِكن رسول الل ِه وخاتم‬

[Surah al-Ahzab, Ch.33:V.41] be interpreted to convey a compliment to the Holy Prophetsa? If one does not consider Khatam al-Nabiyyin to be a praiseworthy trait or a rank of honour, only then can khatamiyyat be interpreted as ‘the last’ in terms of chronological order. However, I know that this would be intolerable to every Muslim […] Even if a prophet was born after the time of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, it would not affect the Holy Prophet’ssa khatamiyyat.’ [Tahzir-un-Nas Min Inkari Athari Ibn ‘Abbasra, Muhammad Qasim Nanautavi, Karachi: Dar-ul-Isha‘at, pp. 3, 25] “Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh further explained the matter with reference to the above-mentioned excerpt and said: “‘That is our belief too. The Holy Prophetsa was khatam even when only a blueprint of man existed. Man was still in the formative stages of his creation. Creation was coming into existence. The Holy Prophetsa says ‘I was Khatam al-Nabiyyin while Adam[as] was still kneaded in the clay with which he was formed.’ What a magnificent concept!

Khatamiyyat is beyond any specific period of time; it is not subject to it. It is impossible for any prophet before him or after him to match the prophethood of the one who is khatam. Moreover, a prerequisite of [a prophet] who comes after him is that he shall either be obedient to him or else not appear at all. His devotee can come but one who is not subservient to him cannot come.

Moreover, all of the preceding prophets are such that they have his stamp of attestation.

People do not try to understand this issue. It is an immensely significant topic. Muslims consider the Holy Prophetsa to be khatam.

They say that this is a great and unique status that no other prophet has attained. [This is indeed the case but] when they are asked what the evidence for this claim is [they have none.] Even if you ask the scholars, they would not have any evidence in their hands. How do we know this and how can one prove it to the world? Here in the

Western world, people ask me in meetings, ‘What evidence do you have?’ I answer by saying, ‘Let me show you the evidence but first resolve the following issue for me: Of all the prophets who have come in the world, not a single one has attested to the truth of other prophets of the world besides those of his own dispensation. Take a torch and go and find one, then, show him to me! You will absolutely not find a single one. ‘I believe in Allah, His books and His messengers.’ In this phrase, believing in all the prophets and messengers has been declared obligatory.

There is only one, that is, our Master, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, the Chosen One [who proclaimed this]. Thus, who is the bearer of the seal of attestation? Show us if there is any such prophet except the Holy Prophetsa! This is khatamiyyat. Without even coming close to the high and lofty subject of this khatamiyyat, you are focusing solely on [the Holy Prophet’ssa] being last in chronological order and you do not know what you are talking about. Being last in chronological order is not a praiseworthy trait. However, the khatam that the Holy Quran is describing denotes such praise that no example of it can be found in the world.

You can give it a try. I am telling the whole world. Go on and challenge the religions of the world that if your prophet or any prophet was the bearer of the khatam [seal], then show us how he attested to the truth of other prophets! There is no one other than Muhammadsa, the Messenger of Allah, who is Khatam al-Nabiyyin and who attested to the truthfulness of all the prophets. Thus, even if someone was to come in the future, he cannot come without his attestation. That is why the truth is that when we say ‘ummati prophet’ we mean that Imam Mahdi and the Promised Messiahas about whom there was a prophecy. That is all what we mean: He has the approval from that stamp of attestation.

When have we ever referred to anyone other than the Imam Mahdi as an [ummati] Continued on next page >>

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

6 << Continued from previous page

prophet? Thus, he is the Imam Mahdi and it is him that we refer to as an ummati prophet.’ (In the programme Mulaqat, 31 January 1994) “As far as the references to the narrations are concerned, that you have asked for, the hadith recorded in Mishakat and its reference is as follows: َ ّ ٰ َّ َ َ ّٰ ْ َْ ْ َ ‫اض ب ِن َسا ِريَة ع ْن َر ُس ْو ِل الل ِه َصلى الل ُه َعل ْي ِه‬ ِ ‫ع ِن ال ِعرب‬ َ ْ َّ ُ َ َ ٌ ْ ُ ْ َ ّ ٰ َ ْ ْ ّ َ َ ُ َّ َ َّ َ َ ‫الن ِب ِّيي َن َو ِإ ّن‬ ‫وسلم أنه قال ِإنِي ِعند الل ِه مكتوب خاتم‬ ُ َ ْ َ ْ ْ َ َّ َ ْ ُ ُ ْ ُ َ ٌ َْ َ َ َ َ‫اه ْيم‬ ْ َ ِ ‫آد َم ل ُمنج ِدل فِي ِط ْين ِت ِه وساخ ِبركم بِأو ِل أم ِري دعوة ِإبر‬ َ ْ ْ َ َّ ُ ْ َ َْ ْ ُ َ َ َ ‫ارة ِعي َسى َو ُرؤيَا أ ِ ّم ْي ال ِت ْي َرأت ِحي َن َوض َع ْت ِن ْي َوقد خ َر َج‬ ‫وبِش‬ َّ ُ ْ ُ ُ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ َ ٌ ُ َ َ ”‫ام‬ ِ ‫لها نور أضاء لها ِمنه قصور الش‬ “‘It is narrated by Hazrat al-Irbad Ibn Sariyahra that Allah’s Messengersa said: “Verily, I was [already] ordained as Khatam al-Nabiyyin in the sight of Allah when Adam[as] was still kneaded in his clay. Moreover, I wish to inform you that my matter (i.e. the inception of the matter of my birth) is the [result of the] prayer of Abrahamas, the glad tiding of Jesusas and the dream of my mother which she saw at the time of my birth that light appeared in front of her which illuminated for her the palaces of the Levent.’ (Mishkat al-Masabih, Kitab al-Fadail, Bab Fadail Sayyidi l-Musralin) “The qudsi hadith: َ َ َْ ْ ُ َْ َ َ َ َ َ ‫ل ْو لاک ل َما خلقت الافلاک‬ has been quoted by Allama Alusi and Allama Ismail Haqqi in their commentaries, whereas Allah the Exalted revealed it to the Promised Messiahas in the following words: ْ ْ َ َ ّ َ َ َْ ْ ُ َْ َ َ َ َ َ ‫ام۔ ل ْو لاک ل َما خلقت الافلاک‬ ِ ‫ِانِ ْی مع ال ِاک َر‬ [‘Verily I am with the noble ones. Were it not for you, I would not have created the heavens.’ (Tadhkirah [English], p. 1906)].

Huzooraa has also mentioned it in his writings. The references to those writings and to the books of tafsir are as follows: 1. “Ruh-ul-Ma‘ani, by Allama Alusi, Part 29, Tafsir of verse 38 of Surah an-Naba, Dar Ihya al-Turath al-Arabi, Beirut, 1999, p. 306 2. Ruh-ul-Bayan, by Allama Haqqi Bursevi, Volume VI, tafsir of verse 36 of Surah an-Nur, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2004, p. 24 3. Tadhkirah, Fourth edition, [...], p. 225 4. Haqiqatul-Wahi [Urdu], Ruhani Khazain Vol. 22, p. 102”

Pig-to-human organ transplant Someone wrote to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa that American doctors had transplanted a pig’s heart into a sick person’s body to save his life. He asked if it was permissible to do so.

In a letter dated 2 February 2022, Huzooraa gave the following answer to this question: “I have already said on some occasion that when it comes to saving human life, there is nothing wrong with this type of treatment. Alcohol is also forbidden in Islam, but its use in medicines, that result in preserving human life, is permissible.

This is so because all of these conditions fall under the category of iztirar – being driven by absolute and extreme necessity. Where Allah the Exalted has stated the prohibition of the flesh of swine in the Holy Quran, there He has also given permission for its

use in cases of iztirar.

“Therefore, it is permissible to perform pig-to-human heart transplantation as a treatment, as is it done on grounds of iztirar, and there is no prohibition of this.

“Some of the classical jurists and other scholars are of the opinion that it is forbidden to eat pork but pig’s hair and hide etc. are allowed to be utilised. Some of them have ventured so far as to say that it was permissible to eat its fat. However, in our view, under normal circumstances, it is not permissible to use any pork product in a way that could be regarded as consumption.

Hence, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote in his commentary on Surah al-Baqarah, verse 174: “‘There is a difference of opinion among the jurists as to whether the phrase lahm al-khinzir [flesh of swine], used in the verse under discussion, also connotes fat or not.

As far as language is concerned, shahm i.e. fat is considered to be different from lahm but the commentators assert that the term lahm also encompasses shahm. Although the argument of the commentators is based on their personal interpretation and the words of the lexicographers on this matter are more reliable, even so, I am of the view that pig shahm i.e. fat is not permissible.

The proof I have for this is that the Holy Prophetsa said that the fat of a dead animal was unlawful [haram]. The prohibition of pig[’s flesh] and the prohibition of the dead are mentioned in the same verse and in the same words. Thus, one kind of ruling will apply to both. However, it is permissible to use pig hide as its usage does not equate its consumption.’ (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 4, tafsir Surah al-Nahl, p. 260)’ “Similarly, in response to the question on what he thought about toothbrushes ‘they were often made from pig’s hair’, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said: “‘Our investigation, however, shows that not all brushes are made from pig’s hair.

As for the use of pig’s hair, it is permissible according to the Shariah because it is pig’s flesh that is forbidden from being consumed and no one eats hair. An eminent classical scholar has ventured so far as to say that pig fat was also lawful because pig’s lahm [flesh] had been forbidden and not its fat. Other jurists have said that although the eminence of the person issuing this fatwa cannot be disputed, his argumentation is flawed and that he is mistaken in terms of language because fat is included in the term lahm but he has understood it to be a separate word.

(Al Fazl, Qadian, No. 5, Vol. 16, 16-17 July 1928, p. 7) “Even in Judaism, pig farming and its consumption are forbidden, but since saving human life is of paramount importance, according to modern Jewish scholars, obtaining [and utilising] a heart from a pig [for this purpose] does not in any way violate Jewish dietary norms.

“Similarly, some contemporary Muslim scholars have issued a fatwa stating that if there is a fear of death of a patient, failure of any of his organs, the spread of a disease or its worsening, or severe damage to the body, then a pig’s heart valves can be transplanted into a human.”

(Compiled by Zaheer Ahmad Khan, Head of Records Department, Private Secretariat, London.

Translated by Al Hakam)

The philosophy of on the Holy Proph

In his book, Hayat-e-Qudsi, Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasul Sahib Rajekira states:

Durood Sharif and the Promised Messiah The deliberation on the words of Durood Sharif, which are also recited in the salat, shows that the Promised Messiahas who was to appear was to be a Muhammadan Messiah and not an Israelite, because the prayer for the Holy Prophetsa is that the blessings of Prophet Abrahamas and his progeny be bestowed on him and Aal-e-Muhammad [progeny of Muhammadsa]. Since the Israelite Messiah came before the Holy Prophetsa and is one of the prophets of Israel and from the progeny of Prophet Abrahamas, the prayer of Durood Sharif indicated that the [ummah] of the Holy Prophetsa would also be blessed with a Messiah similar to the one granted to Prophet Abrahamas and his progeny.

Hence, the Holy Prophetsa was to be granted another Messiah similar to that of the first Messiah and not that the first Messiah was to be sent again. If the first Messiah comes again, then the presence of the word kamaa [i.e. similar, in Durood Sharif], which refers to the likeness of the first Messiah and not the exact same

personage of the first Messiah, becomes null and void, because there must be a difference between the mushabbah [primum comparationis, that which is being compared] and mushabbah-bihi [secundum comparationis, that which the primum comparationis is compared with], otherwise there is no point in comparing [the two].

Thus, the presence of the word kamaa has shown by its presence that the Promised Messiahas was not the first Messiah or the Israelite Messiah, but his embodiment and another Messiah who was to be an individual of the ummah of Muhammadsa, i.e. a Muhammadan Messiah, ُ ُ ُ َ as is described ْ ْ ُ in the ahadith of ‫امک ْم ِم ْنک ْم‬ ‫ اِم‬and ‫حل َی َتین‬.

Moreover, the words minkum and kamaa in the following Ayat-e-Istikhlaf also refer to the same fact:

َّ َ ۡ ّٰ َ َ َ ّٰ ‫الل ُہ الَّ ِذیۡ َن ٰا َم ُنوۡا ِم ۡن ُک ۡم َو َعم ُلوا‬ ‫الص ِل ٰح ِت ل َ َی ۡس َتخ ِلفن ُہ ۡم‬ ‫وعد‬ ِ ۡ ‫فِی الۡاَ ۡرض َک َما‬ ۡ‫اس َت ۡخ َل َف الَّ ِذیۡ َن ِم ۡن َق ۡب ِلہ ۡم ۪ َول َ ُی َم ِّکن َ َّن ل َ ُہم‬ ِ ِ ً ۡ َ ۡ ۡ َ ۡ َ ۡۢ ّ ۡ ُ َّ َ ّ َ ُ َ َ ۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َّ ُ ُ َ ۡ ؕ ‫ِدینہم ال ِذی ارتضی لہم ولیب ِدلنہم ِمن بع ِد خوفِ ِہم امنا‬ َ ٰٓ ُ َ َ ٰ َ ۡ َ َ َ َ ۡ َ َ ً ۡ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ ‫یعبدون ِنی لا یش ِرکون ِبی شیئا ؕ ومن کفر بعد ذل ِک فاول ِئک‬ ُ ٰۡ ‫ُھ ُم الف ِسقوۡ َن‬

[“Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that He will surely make them Successors in the earth, as He made Successors from among those who were before them; and that He

7

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022

invoking durood het – Part IV will surely establish for them their religion which He has chosen for them; and that He will surely give them in exchange security and peace after their fear: They will worship Me, and they will not associate anything with Me. Then whoso is ungrateful after that, they will be the rebellious.” (Surah alNur, Ch.24: V.56)] That is, the person who was to be appointed to represent the Holy Prophetsa and granted his successorship will be a member of the Muhammadan ummah. In such a case, the Israelite Messiah, who has undoubtedly passed away according to the Holy Quran, ahadith and historical facts, even if he is accepted to be alive, he cannot become the successor of the Holy Prophetsa because the words minkum and kamaa in the Holy Quran, ahadith and Durood Sharif are against this matter that such a Messiah should become the successor of the Holy Prophetsa who is not from his ummah.

Manifestation of Muhammadan glory in the Promised Messiah When we contemplate on the words of Durood Sharif, it also becomes clear that all the blessings of Prophet Abrahamas and his progeny which are to be granted to the Holy Prophetsa and Aal-e-Muhammad are in the sense that the Holy Prophetsa will be given the attributes and blessings of all the prophets from Prophet Adamas to Prophet Jesusas.

The divine vision of the Holy Prophetsa in which he led all the prophets in salat as an imam in Bait-ul-Maqdas also shows that the attributes of all the prophets can be adopted separately or collectively by following him. ُ ‫ُعل َ َم‬ Consequently, according to the hadith: ‫اء‬ َ َ ‫“[ اُ َّم ِتى �انْب َيا ِء ب َ ِنى ا‬The scholars of my ‫ِ��اﰱِيﻞ‬ ِ ummah are like the prophets of the Bani Israil”], every mujaddid [reformer] of his ummah inherited the attributes of one of the past prophets, and the Promised Messiahas, who is the Mujaddid-e-Azam [greatest of all the mujaddids of the ummah of the Holy Prophetsa], inherited the attributes of all the prophets collectively under the glory of Jariullah fi hulalil-Anbiya [The champion of Allah in the mantles of the prophets]. Moreover, as the Holy Prophetsa is from the progeny of Prophet Abrahamas, the Promised Messiahas, being from Aal-eMuhammad, owing to the words of kamaa sallayta and kamaa baarakta alaa Ibrahima wa alaa aali Ibrahima, also inherited the attributes and blessings of the Holy Prophetsa as a reflection.

Revelation of the Promised Messiah about Durood Sharif The revelation that was sent to the Promised Messiahas regarding Durood Sharif is as follows: َ َ ْ ُ ُ ٰ َّ ّ َ ُ َٰ َ ُ ٰ ّ ‫الص��ة ه َو ال ُ� َربِّ ْى۔ اِن ِ ْى َرا ِف ُعﻚ اِل َّى۔‬ ‫َص ِﻞ َعلى ��َ ّم ٍد ّو ا ِل ��َ ّم ٍد۔‬ ً َ َ َ َ ُ َ َْ ‫َوالق ْيت َعل ْيﻚ ��َ ّبة ِ ّم ِّن ْى‬ [“Call down blessings on Muhammadsa

and the people of Muhammadsa. Calling down blessings is the true training. I [God] shall raise you towards Me and bestow My nearness upon you. And I have conferred My own love upon you.” (Barahin-eAhmadiyya, Part III [English], p. 212)] (The Promised Messiahas himself translated it as): “Send blessings on Muhammadsa and Aal-e-Muhammad.

Progress and perfection are granted by the training of durood alone. I [God] will raise you. I will clothe you with the mantle of My love.”

(The Promised Messiahas further said that): “By invoking durood on the Holy Prophetsa, one can attain the status of Prophet Jesusas and even the rank of Prophet Mosesas, and God will prove this through the person of the Promised Messiahas. (Barahine-Ahmadiyya, Part III [English], p. 175) Then, on page 128 [old edition] of Haqiqatul-Wahi, the Promised Messiahas says: “On one occasion, it so happened that I remained very much occupied with calling down blessings on the Holy Prophet, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for a long time, for I believed that the ways leading to God are very fine and cannot be discovered except through the agency of the ۡ َ ۤۡ ُ َ ۡ َ Holy َ َ ۡ َ ۡ Prophet, as Allah says too: ‫وابتﻐوا اِلي ِه‬ ‫‘[ الو ِسيلة‬And seek the way of approach unto Him,’ Surah al-Maidah, 5:36]. After a time, I saw, in a vision, that two water carriers came and entered into my house, one by the outer entrance and the other by the inner entrance carrying on their shoulders waterَ ٰ skins full َ of divine light and they said: ‫هﺬا‬ َّ َ ُ ٰ َ َ ْ ّ َ َ ‫‘[ بِما صليت على ��م ٍد‬This is on account of the blessings you invoked upon Muhammad’].”

[The Philosophy of Divine Revelation, p. 154]

Blessings of Durood Sharif There are many benefits of reciting Durood Sharif. In addition to other benefits, there is the benefit that since Durood Sharif is an accepted prayer, so if it is recited before and after one’s personal prayer, then this practice, owing to the intercession of the Holy Prophetsa, proves to be an excellent means for the acceptance of prayer.

Then, as the Holy Prophetsa, because of his compassion for mankind, desired for every human being that they achieved the best religious and worldly objectives in their lives, if Durood Sharif is recited by including his aims as one’s own objectives, then this practice is also very useful for the acceptance of prayer and achievement of one’s objectives.

Any difficult matter that is apparently impossible to handle can be overcome and solved by reciting Durood Sharif. Thus, the reward of invoking Durood Sharif will help eliminate the problem.

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in Hayat-e-Qudsi, pp. 610-612)w

The Existence of God Almighty

“

If someone was to raise the objection that God does not exist, I would say that this is absolutely absurd; nothing could be more foolish and ignorant than to deny the existence of God. Worldly courts issue a verdict even if there are two witnesses; in fact, a few witnesses are enough for the courts to issue a verdict against something as valuable as life itself, and people are hung. This is despite the fact that fabrication and conspiracy in the matter of witnesses is not just some imaginary risk; there are actual cases of this as well. Yet, when it comes to God, the testimony of thousands, in fact, hundreds of thousands of people who are categorically recognised in their own nation and country as being righteous and of good character, is deemed insufficient. What could be more asinine and obstinate? Hundreds of thousands from among the holy bear witness, and have demonstrated through their practical example, and written testimony with the blood of their heart that God most definitely exists. After all this, anyone still in denial is foolish.

(Malfuzat, Vol. 3, p. 49)

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

8

This Week 6teachers serving in Kenya. This was the last day of Huzoor’saa stay in Kenya during the visit. (Al Fazl International, 27 May 2005, p. 9)

8 May Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressing the MTA3 Al-Arabia inaugural dinner, 2007

6 May 6 May 2005: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, during his visit to Kenya, delivered a sermon in Mombasa which was broadcast on MTA via telephone. On this day, before departing for Nairobi by air from Mombasa, Huzooraa presided over a children’s class before inspecting an Ahmadiyya clinic in Mombasa. (Al Fazl International, 27 May 2005, p.9)

6 May 2007: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed a gathering held in connection with the launch of MTA3 Al-Arabia. Huzooraa said that the promise which had been made to the Promised Messiahas by Allah the Almighty that He would give him a community of such people who would love him, had started to manifest. And now, Huzooraa said, the number of such people was increasing in the Arab world as well and, insha-Allah, would continue to do so. He said a time would come when all the Arab world would unite on one hand as ummat-e-wahidah.

(Al Fazl International, 25 May 2007)

6 May 2015: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered his Friday Sermon from the Nusrat Jahan Mosque in

Copenhagen, Denmark.

In his sermon, Huzooraa said: “We, Ahmadi Muslims, must ask ourselves whether we are actually fulfilling the pledges of our faith or are we merely following the faith of our fathers in name only? […] Furthermore, those who have come here in search of a better future should ask themselves if the improved conditions have driven them away from their faith?” (Head of

8 May 2005: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was interviewed by a Kenyan National Newspaper. In the next leg of the visit, Huzooraa travelled to Tanzania by air. This was Huzoor’saa first visit to the country. That evening, Huzooraa also inspected the arrangements for Jalsa Salana Tanzania. (Al Fazl International, 3 June 2005, Page 16)

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during his visit to Ahmadiyya Muslim Mosque, Chalinze, Tanzania

Sermon from Copenhagen, Denmark, www.

8 May 2006: During his tour of the Far East, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in Tokyo, Japan after an 11-hour flight from New Zealand.

Huzooraa was warmly welcomed by Ahmadis in Japan’s Narita airport.

pressahmadiyya.com, 7 May 2016)

(Al Fazl International, 30 June 2006, p. 3)

May 2016)

7 May

9 May

10 May

7 May 2005: On this day, during Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s Vaa visit to Kenya, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Hon Kalonzo Musyoka had the opportunity to meet with Huzooraa.

9 May 2005: On this day, Jalsa Salana Tanzania commenced. This was the first Jalsa Salana of Tanzania Jamaat in which a Khalifatul Masih was present.

10 May 2005: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed Lajna Imaillah during Jalsa Salana Tanzania.

Huzooraa also addressed the closing session of the Jalsa that evening. On the same day, a bai‘at ceremony was also held. (Al Fazl International, 10 June

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community delivers Friday

Huzooraa, on the same day, presided over a children’s class. Then, after individual and group mulaqats, a meeting was held with Ahmadi missionaries of Kenya. Later, he had meetings with Congolese and Zimbabwean Ahmadi missionaries, and later that evening, with

Huzooraa delivered the inaugural address, inspected the printing press and presided over a children’s class.

After family mulaqats, delegations from Burundi, Malawi and Zambia met with Huzooraa. That evening, Huzooraa also attended a reception to which dignitaries of the country were invited. (Al Fazl International, 3 June 2005, Page 11)

9 May 2016: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at a special reception held in his honour at the Hilton Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Addressing the gathering, Huzooraa said:

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering Friday Sermon from the Nusrat Jahan Mosque in Copenhagen, Denmark

“If one reads the Holy Quran and assesses the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, through a lens of justice, rather than through a lens of prejudice, they will soon realise that Islam is a religion of peace. They

will realise that the Holy Prophetsa desired peace with every fibre of his being.” (“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community delivers historic address in Copenhagen”, www.pressahmadiyya.com, 10

2005, p. 16)

10 May 2013: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered an historic Friday Sermon from the Baitul Hameed Mosque in Chino, California, as his first visit to the West Coast of the United States of America continued.

In this sermon, Huzooraa said: “The more I think about it, the stronger the feeling is embedded in my heart that it is likely that the establishment of peaceful Islam in the United States will initiate from this region.” (“Historic Address Delivered

by Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in California”, www.pressahmadiyya.com, 11 May 2013)

10 May 2016: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in Malmö, Sweden after completing a sixday visit to Denmark. On this day, Huzooraa was interviewed

9

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022

in History 12 May

by Denmark’s Radio24syv (Radio 24Seven). Huzooraa said: “Our slogan of ‘Love for all, hatred for none’ is based on the teachings of Islam because the Holy Quran says that people should love and care for each other and respect one another.

The Quran says that you should be just and fair even with those who oppose you. Thus, Ahmadi Muslims are sympathetic and compassionate towards all of mankind.” (“Ahmadi Muslims sympathetic to all of mankind” – Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, www. pressahmadiyya.com, 11 May 2016)

11 May

11 May 2016: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was interviewed

by Sveriges Television (Swedish TV) at the Mahmood Mosque in Malmö, Sweden. During the interview, whilst explaining the beauty of Islam, Huzooraa said: “Anyone who preaches or propagates any form of extremism acts completely against the true teachings of Islam and is to be condemned. We, Ahmadi Muslims, are peace-loving and so no Ahmadi Muslim has any desire to join extremist groups. We teach our children from childhood that to be peaceful is an essential part of their faith.” (“True Integration is to love the country in which you live” – Head

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering Friday Sermon from Baitul Hameed, California

interviewed by the Skånska Dagbladet newspaper at the Mahmood Mosque in Malmö, Sweden, a Sydsvenskan newspaper, and Sveriges Radio (Swedish Radio).

Vaa had meetings during his stay in Mtwara. On the same day, he returned to Dar es Salaam by air.

(Al

Fazl International, 10 June 2005, p. 13)

12 May

of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, www.

11 May 2005: During his visit to Tanzania, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih

pressahmadiyya.com, 12 May 2016)

On the same day, he was also

12 May 2005: During his visit to Tanzania, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa being interviewed by Skånsa Dagbladet at the Mahmood Mosque in Sweden

12 May 2017: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, in his Friday Sermon, while mentioning the opposition of the Jamaat, said that in a place in Bangladesh called Shohagi, a town in Memon Singh district, the Jamaat’s mosque was attacked by maulvis, and a missionary, Mustafizur Rehman Sahib, was stabbed and severely injured. He was treated immediately and survived. (Al Fazl International, 23 June 2006, pp. 2-11) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressing a special reception held in his honour in Copenhagen, Denmark

Vaa reached Mtwara by air from Dar es Salaam where he received a warm welcome. There, Huzooraa addressed the opening ceremony of the Ahmadiyya Mosque in Mtwara. (Al Fazl International. 10 June 2005, pp. 12-13)

11 May 2013: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at a special reception held in his honour at the Montage in Beverly Hills, LA. In his address, Huzooraa said: “I believe in that One God who is the Lord of all nations, all races and all religions, and so it becomes impossible that I could ever develop any hatred in my heart for any nation, any race or any religion.” (“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Delivers Historic Address in Southern California”, www. pressahmadiyya.com, 12 May 2013)

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering the keynote address at Montage Hotel, Beverly Hills

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

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‘The consolidation of Pakistan’: Lectures by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad on how Pakistan can see success Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

In 1948, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra delivered a series of lectures in major cities of West Pakistan, on “Istihkam-e-Pakistan” (The Consolidation of Pakistan), which covered insightful topics for the successful future of Pakistan, including national interests and guidance for the countrymen and government. The details of these lectures are presented below:

Sialkot The first lecture of this series was delivered at the Moti Mahal Cinema in Sialkot. This is situated near Saraye Maharaja Jammu and Kashmir where the Promised Messiah’sas Lecture Sialkot was read out in a gathering held on 2 November 1904.

The session was presided over by Khan Bahadur Khawaja Barkat Ali, Retired Postmaster General, Sialkot. Before the lecture, the locals were informed of the event in a public announcement.

During the lecture, Huzoorra gave valuable guidance regarding Pakistan’s defence and progress. Khan Bahadur Chaudhry Qasim Ali Zaildar highly commended this lecture and stated that Huzoorra had a vast knowledge of religion, politics and geography as well. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 11, p. 451) This lecture was attended by various dignitaries, including officers of the Pakistani army. (Al Fazl, 17 February 2012, p. 12)

Jhelum The second lecture was held in Jhelum. In regard to this speech, during his Friday Sermon on 19 March 1948, Huzoorra stated: “Recently, I delivered a speech in Jhelum, advising Muslims that they had demanded Pakistan to establish Islamic culture and a way of life with full freedom. Now that Pakistan has been established, Muslims should at least offer their five daily prayers in mosques. If they do not offer the five daily prayers, then what have they achieved by demanding Pakistan?” (Al Fazl, 14 April 1948, p. 6) During the lecture, while Huzoorra was speaking about the congregational prayers, a person handed over a piece of paper to the session’s president, in which he wrote that he wanted to speak about some volunteers.

Thus, he was given the opportunity after Huzoor’s lecture. In his speech, the person said that Hazrat Mirza Sahibra had spoken about a very good subject but if he was so keen to offer congregational prayers, then they were going to offer their prayer in a short while and wanted to see if Mirza Sahib would offer the prayer behind them.

After his speech, the president stood up and said that the speaker had requested to

speak about some volunteers, but the speech was on a totally different topic.

He further said that the Imam of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya had just stated that the Muslims should offer prayers, as it was a commandment of Prophet Muhammadsa.

He had just called their attention towards obeying the command of the Messengersa of Allah and offering prayers in mosques, but the speaker went on to urge Mirza Sahib to offer the prayer behind them.

The president added that the speaker could have objected if Mirza Sahib had said to offer prayers behind him or that Muslims should offer prayers behind Ahmadis. But, in fact, Mirza Sahib had just reminded the audience about the command of their Mastersa. (Ibid)

Karachi A lecture was delivered on 14 March 1948, at the Khalikdina Hall, situated on Bandar Road (now MA Jinnah Road) in Karachi, titled “Pakistanion se chand saaf saaf baatein”. The session was presided over by Hatim Badruddin Tyabji, then Chief Justice Sindh High Court. The hall was packed to the brim and some had to stand outside during the lecture. The lecture was attended by college students, lawyers, professors and doctors. Moreover, several dignitaries were also present, including the deputy secretary of the Government of Pakistan, advisor to the Sindh Government and officials from the central and provincial governments.

Huzoorra stated: “Pakistan is not only a new government but also a new country. Thus, the people of Pakistan need to instil such emotions of national pride which they had not before.

Such sentiments of national pride help to unite, uplift and urge a nation to make every possible sacrifice for the country’s defence.

If, God forbid, we fail to inculcate this in our people, the slightest of disputes will destroy our unity.” (Al Fazl, 19 March 1948, p. 3) Huzoorra further stated: “First of all, we need to ponder over why we demanded for Pakistan? [...] The Muslims wanted to be given the opportunity to establish an independent government in the areas where they had a majority, where they could prosper by the Islamic teaching and culture, and support other Muslim countries with freedom. [...]

“When a person says that an Islamic government should be established, in other words, they say that ‘I wish to make my actions Islamic.’ [...] Now, if we ponder over Islam, we know that according to Islam, a person’s actions have three parts; firstly [in obedience to] those commandments which are related to themselves; secondly, which are related to their neighbours and friends, and thirdly, which are related to the representatives of a government. [...]

“Now, the proof of the seriousness of a Muslim’s demand for an Islamic government

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

can be that they should at least act upon all those commandments which are completely in their personal control. If one does not do so, then it means that they are not serious about demanding an Islamic government; instead, they are doing so merely under the influence of political objectives to dethrone or defame someone. [...]

“If people demand an Islamic government verbally, and practically do not feel any harm in violating the Islamic commandments, then as a palace built of raw bricks cannot be called a strong one, similarly, a multitude of people committing un-Islamic acts cannot be termed as an Islamic government.” (Ibid, p. 4) In regard to the lingual disputes, Huzoorra said: “When all the provinces of Pakistan have decided willingly to join together and work collectively, then it is obvious that in such a situation, no language of any single province can serve [as a common language].

To work together, it is necessary to have a language which is familiar to the people of all provinces. During the British rule, English served as the common language.

Now, the question is; which language should succeed English? Obviously, in comparison

to English, Urdu has more ability to help understand the Holy Quran and make unity with the Islamic countries. Thus, we need to utilise this language to work together.” (Ibid) After this, Huzoorra granted valuable guidance with respect to the country’s defence and suggested establishing a new railway line from Rawalpindi to Karachi, which would help connect Punjab and Sindh during times of danger.

Then, while addressing the youth of the country, Huzoorra encouraged them to travel by sea (as this was the main form of intercontinental travel at the time) and visit foreign countries.

Huzoorra continued by saying: “Agriculture is being considered as Pakistan’s biggest resource, but we should not neglect a huge danger, which is that the experts estimate that the agricultural areas of Pakistan will become completely barren in 50 years, and its signs are already manifesting. The reason behind this is that harmful salts are found there abundantly.

Due to the canals, the water level is increasing and consequently, salt levels are also rising and the land is getting waterlogged and salinity is developing.” (Ibid) Towards the end, Huzoorra gave guidance

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022

11 463-466) During his stay in Karachi, Huzoorra also addressed a press conference, in which he spoke about issues related to the national interests of Pakistan. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 11, pp. 301-302)

Peshawar

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra on a visit to Landi Kotal, a town in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, 1948

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in Torkham, Khyber District, Pakistan, April 1948

regarding the inhabiting of migrants.

After the lecture, a person from the audience requested Huzoorra to deliver such insightful lectures in the future as well.

Huzoorra replied that he was scheduled to leave Karachi very soon, but would try to deliver a lecture in the near future.

Another lecture was delivered on 18 March 1948 at the Theosophical Hall, Karachi, at the request of the local Lajna

Imaillah. The lecture was attended by around 600 Ahmadi and non-Ahmadi women, including Lady Abdullah Haroon (former president of All India Women Muslim League & Vice-President of All Pakistan Women’s Association), Begum Shaban (a prominent leader of the Pakistan Movement), Begum Afridi, etc. (Al Fazl, 1 April 1948, p. 4) Huzoorra said:

“When I moved from Qadian to Lahore, some distinguished persons came to meet me and said that Lahore was also in danger, so what should they do? I responded that not only Lahore, but the whole of Pakistan was in danger. ‘When you had demanded Pakistan, you also knew that you would only get a specific area, not more than that; you would have a very small amount of money and resources and would have to strive hard for your protection.’ [...] It was obvious that Pakistan would face dangers [after its independence]. [...]

“Thus, every Muslim man and woman of Pakistan needs to understand that they have to either live a dignified and victorious life or face a dignified and proud death. This is the only way which every decent person should follow: either be victorious over the enemy or die a dignified death. [...]

“Bravery and courage are such traits which establish a person’s name in history with great honour. Have you ever read the stories of cowards in history? [...] History remembers only those who offer sacrifices for their nation, and never care about their lives and wealth. Such people include men, women and children as well. [...]

“Allah the Almighty has granted you an independent government, in which you have the opportunity to act upon the Islamic teachings. Now, it is a duty of the Muslims [...] to pray to Allah, offer supplications, and mould their lives [according to the] Islamic [teachings]. In addition, they need to be ready to offer any sacrifice for protecting the honour of their country, nation and religion.” (Qiyam-e-Pakistan Aur Hamari Zimmedarian, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 19, pp.

On his way to Peshawar for delivering lectures, when Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra reached Nowshera Railway Station, around 40 Ahmadis and 30 non-Ahmadis had the opportunity to meet him. The non-Ahmadis requested Huzoorra to say a few words.

Upon this, Huzoorra got off the train and delivered a short talk, in which he said that Allah the Almighty never allowed the humiliation of those who had true love for Islam. If people developed the love of God Almighty and offered their prayers in the true spirit, then God would purify their souls as well. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 11, pp. 310-311) A lecture was delivered on 5 April 1948, at the Special Government Hall, Beroun Kachehri Darwaza in Peshawar, titled “Pakistanion se khuli khuli baatein”.

The audience was so impressed by the lecture that many of them remarked to each other that the person who was labelled a disbeliever had narrated to them the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. (Ibid, p.

312) A Pakistani news agency published a detailed report about Huzoor’s lecture and stated: “In regard to the demand for an Islamic constitution in Pakistan, he told the audience that before demanding Shariah law, one needed to live according to the Islamic Shariah. He said that people were not following the Islamic Shariah themselves, but emphasised the implementation of the Shariah law. Such people were deceiving the world.” (Al Fazl, 7 April 1948, p. 8) Another lecture was delivered on 8 April 1948 at the Mission College (Edwardes College) in Peshawar. The session was presided over by Ghulam Samdani and the audience included the Deputy Commissioner, members of the assembly and other governmental officials. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 11, p. 316) During this tour, Huzoorra visited several other places of NWFP (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa), such as Landi Kotal, Charsadda, Utmanzai, Risalpur and Mardan. During these visits, he met with prominent leaders, including Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan and Syed Muhammad Hassan Gillani (editor Al-Jami‘ah of Peshawar), and emphasised the need to save Pakistan from any kind of internal conflict.

Mardan A lecture was delivered in Mardan, titled “Pakistan and its Defence”. The session was presided over by Nasrullah Jan, Barristerat-Law and was attended by around 300 to 400 people, including prominent lawyers of Mardan.

During the lecture, Huzoorra granted valuable guidance regarding Pakistan’s defence.

Adam Khan Sahib, Amir Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Mardan narrated that the session’s president, in his speech, said that he had thought that Mirza Sahibra was just Continued on next page >>

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

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Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra addressing a press conference in Karachi

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in Landi Kotal, Pakistan, April 1948

West by only relying on worldly measures [...] then we must remember that Allah the Almighty has not promised that He will help the good followers of the West; instead, the Holy Quran states:

َّ َ ّٰ ُ ُ ُۡ ّٰ ُ ‫ق ْل ِا ۡن کن ُت ۡم ت ِح ُّبوۡ َن الل َہ فات ِب ُعوۡنِ ۡی یُ ۡح ِب ۡبک ُم الل ُہ‬

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra with some members of Jamaat Karachi

<< Continued from previous page

a man of religion, but after the lecture, he came to know that he was a general as well.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 11, pp. 452-453)

Rawalpindi Another lecture was delivered on 12 April 1948, at the Nishat Cinema Hall, Rawalpindi.

The session was presided over by Dr Taseer.

A newspaper Inqilab of Lahore stated: “The topic of his speech was “The duty of Muslims amid the prevailing delicate situation”. While shedding light on the current situation in detail, he told the Muslims that they were in a warlike situation. […] He also advised the government’s responsible members to mend their ways along with the changing circumstances and show such conduct that could be an example for the public and from this, the public should start thinking [...] they are not their officers, but well-wishers and brothers […]

“Mirza Bashiruddin Sahib – coming back to his subject – said, ‘Whatever the

conditions are, Pakistan’s Muslims must face all kinds of situations with bravery, just like the people of living nations do. We should neither be unattentive due to being overjoyed on ordinary or extraordinary successes, nor should we be disheartened over ordinary or extraordinary failures.’”

(Inqilab, 17 April 1948, p. 6) After the lecture, some people raised slogans against the Jamaat and tried to create disorder and the police had to disperse the mob. (Ibid)

Quetta A lecture was delivered on 14 June 1948, at the York House in Quetta. The session was attended by the Iranian Consul, minister of the state of Qalat, tribal leaders, civil and military officials, office-bearers of the Muslim League, dignitaries, doctors and press representatives.

Huzoorra stated: “The first and foremost thing which is very important for the Muslims here, in all corners of the world, and every country – without which all of our efforts, claims

and objectives prove to be false – is that our religion presents a reality that it is a living religion which will last till the Day of Judgement. [...] As followers of a living religion, we should also have a [spiritual] life among ourselves [...]

“If we are true Muslims, then we should glance back 1,300 years ago. If we try to follow the footsteps of other worldly nations and ponder over their way of progress, and neglect the commandments of Allah the Almighty or guidance granted by the Holy Prophetsa, then certainly we can never be successful in our objective; because God Almighty has made such promises with the Muslims which have not been made to the other nations. [...]

“We must create such an environment that distinguishes us from the other nations, and the only way to achieve this is to act upon the teaching which was brought by our master and leader, Muhammad Rasulullahsa.

We should follow the path which he wanted us to follow, and avoid those matters which are against [the teaching of] Islam. If we do not and try to become good followers of the

[“Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: [then] will Allah love you.’” (Surah Aal-eImran, Ch.3: V.32)] “Meaning that if you want God to love you, then you should follow the footsteps of Muhammad Rasulullahsa. Divine support and help can only come when the Muslims try to follow the footsteps of Muhammad Rasulullahsa.” (Musalmanan-e-Balochistan se aik Eham Khitaab, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 19, pp. 579-581) With regard to the demand for an Islamic constitution in Pakistan, Huzoorra said: “Nowadays, there is a huge discussion among the masses that an Islamic constitution should be implemented in Pakistan. [...] If we are true Muslims then why don’t we, at an individual level, act upon the laws made by Muhammad Rasulullahsa, and why do we wait for [the government of] Pakistan to implement a law on these matters. Can the law of Pakistan be more impactful or important than the laws set by Muhammad Rasulullahsa? [...]

“Thus, it is our primary duty to try to inculcate [the teachings of] Islam in ourselves. If we do not, then it is futile to merely demand an Islamic constitution. [...] Every Muslim should endeavour to become a true Muslim and act on every commandment of the Holy Quran.” (Ibid, pp. 584-594) Towards the end, Huzoorra said: “During the fragile situation which Muslims are facing today, it is their foremost duty to unite by disregarding their internal disputes […] If millions of people of a nation become ready to sacrifice their lives, then no one can kill [defeat] them. If the Muslims collectively decide that they will die [for the nation], then, certainly, no one has the power to kill them.” (Al Fazl, 26 June 1948, p. 4) This lecture was widely published in the press and very much appreciated.

The Meezan of Quetta reported on 14 June 1948: “Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad

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AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022

‘You make our community a better place’ Iftar dinner with Christie Downs community, Australia Atif Ahmed Zahid Regional Missionary, South Australia

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra during a tea party at York House, Quetta, 14 June 1948

Sahib – Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat – while speaking at a reception held by the local president of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Quetta, narrated three important points.

He said that one should hold fast to Islam in their heart, become a Muslim from their heart, and follow [the teachings of] Muhammad Rasulullahsa. He presented the verse:

َّ َ ّٰ ُ ُ ُۡ ‫ق ْل ِا ۡن کن ُت ۡم ت ِح ُّبوۡ َن الل َہ فات ِب ُعوۡنِ ۡی‬

[“Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me.’”

(Surah Aal-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.32)] “He said that those who are demanding an Islamic constitution from the government of Pakistan, in reality, wish to change the ministry. [...] “[He said that] today, every Pakistani Muslim needs to be determined to live a life of dignity and freedom. He advised us to shun internal disagreements at all stages.”

The Inqilab of Lahore published an article, titled “Nifaz-e-Shariat par zor na do, achay Musalman bano; Mirza Mahmud ki taqreer” [Do not emphasise the implementation of the Shariah; become a good Muslim yourself – Mirza Mahmud’s Speech], and stated that the lecture was attended by the Iranian Consul M Kazmi, member of the Pakistan Legislative Assembly Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan Jogezai and Revenue Commissioner of Balochistan A R Khan.

“Mirza Bashiruddin said that ‘it will be better if people try to become good Muslims, which will fulfil the objective of our religion.’” (Inqilab, 19 June 1948, p. 4) Another lecture was delivered on 4 July 1948, at the Town Hall of Quetta, titled ‘Pakistan ka Mustaqbil’ (Pakistan’s Future). The session was presided over by Khan Bahadur Sheikh Muhammad Niaz,

Superintending Engineer.

Huzoorra stated that the Muslims needed to make Islam the code of conduct in their individual and national lives.

He further stated that to achieve something and then retain it were two different matters. One could not be applauded if they kept a building in the same condition as they got it; they could only be applauded if they left it in a better condition.

Huzoorra added that Pakistan’s bright future was only possible when its citizens adopted the teachings of Islam in their practical lives.

He further said: “Our first and foremost duty is to inculcate [the teachings of] Islam in our individual and national lives. [...] Moreover, we should never neglect the fact that we need to establish Islam all around the world and raise the flag of Muhammad Rasulullahsa. [...] And it is our duty to always remember this great objective, and never hesitate to offer any sacrifice required for its fulfilment.” (Al Fazl, 23 March 1956, pp. 5-6) Had the government and the people of Pakistan acted on Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra valuable and timely guidance – which was hugely praised at the time – the country would have progressed immensely, and it could have avoided many setbacks, which were faced in the following years and in present-day Pakistan.

‫ ہ ی‬‭‫‬ہك‬‭‫‬اگ‬‭‫‬آےئ‬‭‫اِک‬وتق‬ ‫‬ولگ‬‭‫‬امتم‬‭‫‬ےگ‬‭‫‬ك‬ ‫‬ركے‬‭‫‬دخا‬‭‫‬رتمح‬‭‫ىئ‬ہپ‬ ‭ ‫س‬دفا‬ ‭ ‫‬ا‬‭‫تلم‬ےك‬

“A time will come when all shall proclaim, ‘May God have mercy on this devotee of the nation.’”

On 20 April 2022, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Adelaide South organised a unique event; “Iftar dinner with your local Ahmadiyya Muslim community” in collaboration with the Christie Downs community house.

This event was unique in the sense that it was the first time that the Jamaat organised any event about the Holy month of Ramadan outside the premises of the Jamaat.

Preparations for the event began two weeks in advance. A team was formalised with dedicated duties assigned to them. A flyer was designed highlighting the purpose and details of the event.

The event was promoted through social media. Individual invitation letters were also sent to dignitaries and tabligh contacts.

On 20 April, Jamaat members arrived earlier at the community house to set up for the event. The main hall was prepared for the formal proceedings, a relatively small hall adjacent to the main hall was organised for prayers while an exhibition on Islam and a bookstall were set up at the entrance in the foyer area.

The formal event started at 5 pm with the recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a short presentation on “The significance of the Holy month of Ramadan and its blessings”, and a question and answer session.

All members opened the fast (iftar) and Maghrib prayer was offered, meanwhile, the guests were invited to observe the prayer. For many guests, it was a very unique learning experience about the Islamic prayer.

After the prayer, dinner was served to all the guests and informal discussions on different topics of Islam continued.

More than 60 tabligh guests and five dignitaries attended the event.

Some of the comments of the guests are given below: Katrine Hildyard MP said: “It’s been such a pleasure and an honour to be here tonight at the wonderful Christie Downs community house with the members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.

Thank you to everybody who has brought us together tonight, to learn more together as a community about the holy month of Ramadhan, fasting, about the deep period of reflection, spirituality, prayer and charity.

That is what is at the core of the holy month of Ramadhan. Thank you so much for generously sharing your culture with us, for teaching us more, and through doing so bringing us together as a community in harmony to celebrate diversity, and build much stronger connections, there’s a very special gift for you to do that. Thank you also to every member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community for always living your value of ‘Love for all, Hatred for none’. You make our community a stronger place, a better place, a kinder and much more deeply connected place. Thank you so much for having me and everybody here this evening. I certainly look forward to all that we can do with and for our community together into the future.”

Photos from the iftar dinner event

Councillor Geoff Eaton said: “This is the third of your events that I have actually been to since being appointed a councillor back in 2018. I really got to say that the interaction with your mosque and your community is excellent. It’s really an example that can be shown to the rest of Australia; how your community have integrated with our community and how much you are helping our community, so that’s a big bonus.”

Councillor Jason Haskett said: “I was really happy to be invited here tonight to break the fast for Ramadan.

Thank you for your generosity and warmth and to get more of an insight into your culture and your religion. Thank you.”

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

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100 Years Ago...

Significance of bai‘at and work of Ahmadi missionaries in Mauritius and West Africa The Moslem Sunrise, April 1922

Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra (1872-1957)

Ahmadi missioner in Mauritius: Hafiz Ghulam Muhammed BA This worthy brother has been blessed with great success in his sincere and earnest work of propagation of Ahmadia Movement in the far off isolated Island in Mauritius. He has worked on sound and substantial bases, and his converts are developed to the full knowledge of the truth of recent revelations from God. We are glad to insert below two little articles which our worthy friend (a scholar of the Arabic, Persian, French and German languages) has translated from the French of the famous Voltaire:

Islam “I say to you again that they are ignorant and imbecile who among many other things accuse the Muhammadan religion of pleasure and sensuality. Nothing of the sort.

You are deceived on that point as on many others.

“Cannons, monks, vicars, if there be imposed upon you the law of neither eating nor drinking since 4am to 10pm during the month of July when fasting (Ramazan) comes, in that month; if you be prohibited from gambling of all sorts under the pain of damnation; if wine be interdicted to you under the same punishment; if you be required to make a pilgrimage in burning deserts; if you be enjoined to give at least 2½ percent of your income to the poor; if accustomed to enjoy the companionship of eighteen women and fourteen of them be at once curtailed; in good honest faith, will you dare call that religion sensual?”

for giving them the glad tidings of the advent of the World Teacher in the person of the Prophet Ahmad[as] to fulfill the prophecy made by the great Krishna (the ancient Christ of India) in his famous book, Gita.

Moslem Sunrise Go forth to the world, Moslem Sunrise!

With thy message of grace to mankind.

Speed on the broad highway of Allah, Thy pinions wide spread to the wind.

Fly high over highways and byways, Rivers, roads, winding out and then in, And scatter thy beams, Moslem Sunrise, Tender, loving, sympathy win.

Ah, well art thou named Moslem Sunrise, For the Sun rises in the East, And flings wide its life giving radiance, And gorgeous spectacular feast.

Bright warm rays of the Moslem Sunrise, In this wonderful spiritual age, Will take life and hope to weary, From despair their souls disengaged.

Awaken the spiritual forces, That in so many dormant lay, For Sunrise, to all, bears this message – Awaken, ’tis dawn of new day.

E Maudling (Ummesalaam)

The significance of bai‘at and the way of taking benefit thereof Rendered into English by Malak Aziz Ahmad from the Urdu of the Promised Messiah Explanation of terms: 1. Murshid – Head of a religious order in

Islam. A spiritual guide.

2. Murid – A disciple – one initiated – a follower.

3. Bai‘at – The ceremony of initiation at the hands of a spiritual master.

4. Sufi – A Moslem devotee belonging to some order of Islamic Saints.

Bai‘at is an Arabic word which means to sell one’s self. Its blessings and benefits depend upon the fulfillment of this condition of giving one’s self up to the master (Murshid). It resembles in its preliminary condition the sowing of a seed in the land.

A farmer puts a seed in the ground and no one knows what is going to become of it. If the seed is good and it contains in itself the capacity of overgrowth, through the work of the farmer, by the grace of God, it comes out and a single seed produces thousands of its kind.

In the same way, a person having made the vow of obedience has first of all to adopt humbleness and has to give up egotism and selfishness to be capable of making further progress. One who keeps his selfness along with the vow of obeisance cannot in any way get benefit. Sufis say that a Murid must keep quiet even when he apparently finds his Murshid doing anything wrong. To find fault with the Murshid will cause him to lose his credit of good deeds; for really it is a fault of his own understanding and not a mistake of the Murshid. For this reason, the venerable companions of the MasterProphet Muhammad[sa] used to sit in his presence so quiet. They never looked up before him as if the birds were perching on their heads. Their sense of respect for the master Prophet[sa] never allowed them to put up questions. They always waited

for the outsiders to come and ask question and thus they benefited by listening to the replies given by the Master, may peace and blessings of Allah be with him. The companions of the Holy Prophet[sa] were most respectful to him and hence the saying, “All the duty lies in being respectful.” One who goes out of the limits of respectfulness is taken possession of by satan and gradually becomes an apostate.

After paying full consideration to the duty of respectfulness, it is indispensable for the Murid not to sit idle, but to remain busy in repenting and asking refuge of Allah.

On being promoted to any rank he should still consider himself as wanting further reformation. He should never sit down with a feeling of having achieved all necessary purifications. (Al Badr, 16 November 1903)

Ahmadi Missioner, West Africa: Professor Abdur Rahim Nayyar, B Phil, FCP (London) MSP We give below a brief report of Prof.

Nayyar’s wonderful work in West Africa, as written by himself: “During my stay in Gold Coast, I have made an extensive tour of the Colony, visited 63 places, delivered 88 sermons and travelled 1182 miles costing 94 pounds.

In addition to numerous sympathizers and inwardly converted people, I have the satisfaction of adding to the [Ahmadiyya] Movement 200 new souls and to Islam 178 from Pagans and Christians.

“The first Gold Coast Ahmadia Conference was attended by 100 delegates and was a success, thanks to God in all

Polygamy “It is a great problem in politics whether polygamy and its propagation are useful to society. The Orient has decided that question through all centuries and nature is in accordance with oriental people in almost all species of animal. … Time lost in conception, in delivery, in menses which nature has enjoined upon the female sex, seems demanding to be repaired. Women in hot climates cease early to be fecund. A chief of the family whose glory and prosperity consisted in having a great number of children stood in need of it. The laws of the Occident seem more favourable to women, those of the Orient to men and the State. It is not the object of legislation, which cannot be a subject of dispute.”

Hafiz Ghulam Muhammad was congratulated by the Aryans in Mauritius

An aerial view of a small African village in Sierra Leone

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022 respects. A Missionary Training School has been started and Fanti preachers are being prepared to be teachers and ministers to the people in Bush.

“I have found a seed in an uncongenial soil, let the Lord of Abraham water it and make it a fruitful big tree. Amin.

“I have visited all the important Ahmadi centres in both Winnchal and Salt Pond Circuits, and have found all my people sincere and devoted. The Mission of Salt Pond have been re-moved to an imposing nice building on the commercial road in the centre of the town with a spacious square in front.

“A library and reading room, Scripture Class, Preachers’ Training Class and an elementary school has been opened.

“A series of lectures in the Mission Hall, and weekly open air faith meetings are being regularly held.

“The work in Lagos, Nigeria, is getting on nicely. Some educated Christian gentlemen are likely to accept Islam very soon.

“Women for the first time in the history of Islam in Nigeria attended Eid services outside the town.

“A grand bazaar, for the benefit of the mission, was held and a good amount of money was realized to be credited to the educational funds.

“Mr Ajose, the Imam of old Ahmadis, and his co-workers, Messrs. Shodeinde, Lawal and others, have done the Movement a yeoman’s service by continuing all branches of work started by me.

“The message of Islam has been given to King Decimo of Lagos.

“The open air public lectures are given twice a week in different parts of the town, and stoning the preachers and using abusive language against them have not wavered the young Bilals of Lagos.

“Ladies’ class, 3 times a week, and boys’ daily Quran classes at 3 places in the town are being successfully conducted by the honorary workers.

“Besides, Sunday special morning class and afternoon weekly lectures are also carried on with unabating energy.

“The Chief Imam Dabiri has shown an example of sincerity and steadfastness in faith and has been delivering his Friday Sermon in Yoruba on the line I chalked out for him.

“The hard-working and able General Secretary is busy in organization work and has pleased me with his steady and regular work and sincere, devotional, self-sacrificing attitude. Allah has rewarded him for his zeal in the way of God and Mr Jibril Martins Ahmadi is the only first Muslim, who has, through his recent promotion, risen to the rank of Superintendent of a Branch in the Nigerian Secretariat; Allah be praised.

“I have commenced sermons and lectures and classes, and request the prayers of all my brothers.”

15

This Jalsa was an unexpected blessing: Jamaat Niger holds regional jalsas following Covid-19 relaxation Muhammad Jamal Niger Correspondent

Due to Covid-19, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger was not able to hold its Jalsa Salana.

But recently, the government made some concessions in social distancing and Jamaat Niger seized this opportunity with both hands and planned to hold jalsas at a regional level across the country.

Two months ago, a meeting was held for this purpose under the supervision of Amir Jamaat Niger, Asad Majeeb Sahib, in which a programme was prepared for these jalsas.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger has so far been able to hold 17 jalsas in different regions in which 8,360 people from 105 jamaats participated.

These jalsas were held in Guidan Roumji, Madaoua, Birni N Konni, Dosso, Maradi, Dakoro, Zinder and Tessaoua regions.

The theme of these jalsas was “Khilafat”, so that the new Ahmadis would be made aware of the importance of the status of Khilafat.

Preparations for all the jalsas started with prayers and sadaqat (alms).

For arrangements, meetings were held with local jamaat presidents and officials and organisation committees were formed and work was assigned to them. Invitations were sent to Ahmadi and non-Ahmadi friends. Meetings were also held with government officials and other religious leaders for their participation in these jalsas.

Waqar-e-amal was carried out with great effort and members worked diligently.

The special feature of these jalsas was those sincere and devoted Ahmadis who reached the jalsa site on foot, motorbikes and other means from afar despite the difficulties of travel.

Non-Ahmadi imams of various mosques also participated in these jalsas.

During the jalsa speeches, incidents of love and personal relations with Khilafat-eAhmadiyya were narrated.

Muhammad Sahib from Dunn Kolki, said: “This meeting strengthened our faith and made us aware of our responsibilities, one of which is to write regular letters to the Khalifa of the time and establish a personal relationship”.

Saeedu Sahib from Dabgaoua, expressed: “In this situation of tension and despair due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the situation in the country, this glorious meeting is no less than an unexpected blessing for us”.

A Brother’s request Our venerable Ahmadi Brother, Mr WM Thaha of 43 Main St., Colombo, Ceylon, writes: “All friends coming to the East from the West should make it a point to see us.”

(Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original published in The Moslem Sunrise, April 1922) Scenes from the regional jalsas in Niger

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

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The Islamic Economic System: New world order through Wasiyyat (The Will) – Part V Fazal Masood Malik and Farhan Khokhar Canada

1,300 years had passed since the Holy Prophetsa left this Earth. 13 centuries had elapsed and 12 reformers corrected the course of Islam when the love of Allah sent a prophet, the Promised Messiahas, to save Islam from slow demise. The Holy Prophetsa had brought faith to its completion, and now, his servant, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas busied himself in its propagation.

Economics existed at the beginning of civilisation. From the time of the first barter, it evolved into a complex beast that runs the world today. After centuries of human thought leading to one economic policy after another, the guiding principles that were grounded in ethics and taught by the Holy Prophetsa now stood ready for implementation for the entire world to benefit from.

The Holy Prophetsa and his Khulafa applied the Islamic economic principles tuned to the specific needs of governance in 7th century Arabia and its trade across borders. Over time, many Muslim scholars and jurists advanced the policies according to their understanding. At the turn of the 20th Century, the world’s population stood at five times that of the 7th Century (1 Billion vs. 226 Million). The problems and challenges multiplied by thousands.

The Promised Messiahas penned The Will in 1905. Where it is filled with timeless guidance, one critical piece of advice stands out: economic well-being and the rights of humanity. The Holy Prophetsa not only taught us but showed us through his blessed example that the role of economics and the role of wealth is to ensure the rights of fellow human beings are not infringed upon. As the Holy Quran teaches us, wealth is owned

by God (Surah al-Jathiyah, Ch.45: V.13-14; Surah Ibrahim, Ch.14: V.33-34), not men or women; a fundamental difference in economic thinking presented by Islam.

The Promised Messiahas continued the organisation of financial sacrifices as established by the Holy Prophetsa. Through the institution of Wasiyyat, he established a blessed source of funds dedicated to humanity’s spiritual, physical and economic needs.

He established a mechanism in which funds would come in, not only for people in need but also for institutional needs, including langar, schools and publication. He created an economic process where people can contribute, indicating specific areas for using that money or contributing to general funds. From the humble beginnings, where a few members participated in Wasiyyat, to

Bahishti Maqbarah, Qadian

the institution of Tahrik-e-Jadid, the scheme has now been established on all continents.

The Promised Messiahas envisioned that the entire world would get the message of Islam. To do that, he established the fundamental source of income for the Jamaat, which was institutionalised as Wasiyyat. Such a system of continuous support of welfare projects through a share in the estate of the deceased is a critical step for the future of the world economy.

It may strike the reader as odd. How can Wasiyyat be the building block of humanity’s future?

The answer lies in understanding how funds are tethered, how contracts are binding and what impact this can have on the direction of any administration.

A government tethered to the electoral system is a viable option in the developed world. However, a government or a corporation is beholden to the whims of the electorate or shareholders. In most instances, the taxpayer can dictate short and long-term projects. On the flip side, it holds the government accountable to the taxpayer. With this accountability come the chains. For example, if the government

decides to dedicate 50% of its budget to help the afflicted, following a calamity outside its political boundaries, there would be an uproar. Although moral in nature, it would cause the taxpayer to rightfully question the origin of funds and the extent of budget cuts in their existing community. Regardless, in a situation of national emergencies, states will take action despite the objection of the taxpayers. Current high spending (during Covid-10), mainly on borrowed money, is an example where the state is overstretching itself for the greater public good.

On the other hand, tethered services are driving consumers’ loyalty in the 21st Century. Tethered services help further technical innovation while also creating room for monopolies and oligopolies.

Recent examples of organisations (e.g.

Amazon.com), where other competitors are driven out through predatory practices, are an example of successful companies.

Wasiyyat, however, is untethered to the dictates of its donors, but heavily dependent on a key driving factor: the moral clause.

The moral clause advocated by the institution of Wasiyyat is significant in driving the funds towards the cause of

humanity. It ensures no personal gains are to be had by the person or authority entrusted on behalf of the donor. It also places the onus on the authorised party to ensure that the adequate needs of the underprivileged are met. For such an untethered-tethered system to work, grounding and utmost belief in the hereafter is centrally critical. A fractured belief only results in an outward conviction and helps bring down the entire system.

Worldly charitable organisations express their expenses in cents on the dollar, i.e., how much is used as overhead versus how much goes to the cause for each dollar donated. By the sheer grace of Allah, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya reports the other way.

During a visit by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh to Africa in the 70s, he was asked how it was possible to do all the work the Jamaat does with their donations. The interviewer was surprised at the amount of work versus donation ratio. Huzoorrh responded with a guiding principle. He said that his one penny did the work of a dollar. This exponential growth is due to the volunteer work, purity of faith and blessings of Allah. (Daily Mail, Freetown, 6 May 1970)

17

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022 For Wasiyyat to work worldwide, a moral revolution must occur. A step in global dominance to achieve the purity of heart is Tahrik-e-Jadid. Instituted by the second Khalifa of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, the primary function of Tahrik-e-Jadid is to help propagate the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat around the world and help people of moral dominance to enter the fold, on their own accord. Once this task is successfully completed and Wasiyyat becomes fully active, the funds raised would be sufficient to change the socio-economic condition of the world.

The funds for Wasiyyat are untethered and given voluntarily by the donor. For the world to reach this stage, new world order is needed, not the kind that takes power from one and passes to another, but the

kind that makes each person accountable for their deeds. Wasiyyat demands nothing less than absolute accountability and purity of conscience; only then will the new world order be established, and only then will poverty and inequality succumb to the depth of an eternal abyss.

Being a spiritual leader, the Promised Messiahas spoke of the general theory of economics and emphasised that the most important thing, an all-encompassing belief, is the fundamental Islamic principle that finances belong to God. Any economic system which does not reconcile with this principle is bound to fail. We are simply custodians of that wealth which ultimately belongs to God and has been given to us in trust.

The role of Wasiyyat is not to function

as an operational budget for the government but as the primary tool of socio-economic activity. As the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat is not a political organisation, the funds raised

by Wasiyyat will be used at the discretion of the office of Khilafat, under guidance from God Almighty. These funds are untethered and do not follow any political or social agenda other than the directives of the Holy Quran (see part II of this series titled Ethics and Islamic Economics for further information).

Over 100 years have passed since the system of Wasiyyat was developed (in 1908), and Tahrik-e-Jadid was brought in as a bridge (in 1938). The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat has, since its inception, developed an enterprise-ethos that propels its growth, attracting many to selflessly devote their

time towards the cause of humanity.

Doctors, engineers and volunteers get together to help where they can, delivering the future to those for whom the light dwindles. In the following articles, we look at how the donations raised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat are utilised and explore the proof that willingly donated funds utilised under guidance from Khilafat can perform miracles.

Bibliography: • The Will (Al-Wasiyyat) by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas • Inqilab-e-Haqiqi (Urdu) by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra • Africa Speaks, Majlis Nusrat Jahan Tahrik-e-Jadid

‘In Ahmadiyya, the youth are well th represented’: 8 MKA Uganda Peace Symposium Batte Ahmad Kaire Uganda Correspondent

On 24 April 2022, Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Uganda had the opportunity to organise its 8th Annual Peace Symposium.

Only one hour was remaining before the arrival of guests according to the programme and suddenly heavy rain, flooding and slippery ground were the view insight of every member of the Jamaat and naturally, they were very worried and agitated as to how the long-awaited event will go on? The youths had spent the whole day zealously fighting rainwater.

The first sign of the success of the peace symposium whose theme was “Fundamentals of Establishing World Peace”, was that Allah generated heat from the ground and the ground was dry in 30 minutes and by the time of receiving the first guest, no traces of slippery mud was visible.

During his speech, Amir Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Uganda expounded on Islamic teachings on how to eliminate spiritual maladies of the societies like arrogance, injustice, religious blasphemy, ego, selfishness, sin and transgression, the main causes behind the world’s turbulence, turmoil and insecurity.

Najib Nsubuga, a non-Ahmadi Muslim scholar said: “On behalf of Buganda youth council and Buganda kingdom, we thank you for the invitation […] I want to specifically thank the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community that when I looked around here, I noticed that 50% of the working force is of youthful age […] Thus, in Ahmadiyya, the youth are well represented and this is a great practical, progressive sign and a hope for our nation

and establishment of peace which was being preached today […] Thus, I want to request the Amir of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Uganda that if there is any programme of youth emancipation which is aimed at uplifting the youths’ condition of living, we are ready to join hands to bring about that service which will be vital in the quest of establishing peace and harmony in Uganda and the world at large.”

Jawad Mbogo, the head of Uganda Museum and Research Centre, the first Islamic museum in East and Central Africa, said: “[…] I thank the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for such programmes, and want to extend my sincere gratitude to Ahmadiyya for being the first to translate the Holy Quran in Luganda, a task which was spearheaded by the late Hajji Kizito Burwadda. They’re also the first to translate Juzu Amma which we have looked for, for decades that we may put in our museum but we haven’t found it yet.”

The OC Police Station Wandegeya Division, Batamye Ibrahim said: “Such gatherings are adding to the noble cause of the nation. […] In the language of the police, this is pure policy community because I’ve been following all preachers […] but everything said was relevant […] and if we take all the points made, we can surely have a change of hearts. […] These were the words which you cannot add on or subtract but just confirm […] If possible, we should be having these events at least twice a year and we should invite more youth to listen to words of this kind. […] As a police officer, I’ve seen that these words have been delivering us to the vision and mission of Uganda police, a crime-free society. Thank

Scenes from the MKA Uganda Peace Symposium

you for inviting me, thank you very much.”

The central region youth representative in parliament, Madam Kilabo Agnes Nantongo said: “The government is very appreciative of your support of the people of Buyikwe district. […] I cannot end my comments

without thanking you for giving the youth a space to contribute to such a vital activity. […] As a youth representative, allow me to call for partnership with this Ahmadiyya Community in youth emancipation through training and creating job opportunities.”

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

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National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema in Denmark Muhammad Akram Mehmood Secretary Waqf-e-Nau Denmark

On 17 April 2022, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Denmark had the opportunity to hold its annual Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema at the Nusrat Jahan Mosque in Copenhagen.

The inaugural session commenced at 11:30 am with the recitation from the Holy Quran and was chaired by Muhammad Zakaria Khan Sahib, Amir and missionaryin-charge, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Denmark.

The session was attended by waqifeen-e-nau, waqifaat-e-nau, and their parents as well.

After a tarana (choral poem), a

documentary based on the introduction of the Waqf-e-Nau scheme was presented.

This was followed by the inaugural address by amir sahib Jamaat Denmark. The session concluded with silent prayer.

After a short break, different academic competitions were held.

After this, Secretary Waqf-e-Nau Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Denmark presided over the concluding session of waqifeen-e-nau, while sadr Lajna Imaillah Denmark presided over the concluding session of waqifaat-e-nau.

The total attendance during the ijtema was 85.

National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema in Denmark

Ahmadi delegation meets the Penang State Governor, Malaysia Abdul Aziz Bin Mohd Ibrahim President Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Penang, Malaysia

On 26 April 2022, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Penang, together with other NGOs from Penang, was given an opportunity to meet the Penang State Governor, TYT Tun Dato Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi Bin Haji Abdul Razak.

During the meeting, my humble self had the opportunity to brief on the humanitarian works carried out by Jamaat Penang, especially in the State of Penang. I also mentioned the #STOPWW3 campaign,

Ahmadi delegation meet the Penang State Governor, Malaysia

carried out for the past four years.

The governor highly appreciated the efforts of the Jamaat.

100 Years Ago...

The story of by an eyewitn

The Review of Re

Syed Ahmad Nur, the eyewitness

The coming of the blessed martyr of Kabul to Qadian The blessed “Martyr of Kabul” came to Qadian with some of his companions who were Maulvi Abdus Sattar, Maulvi Abdul Jalil, and the Waziri Maulvi. I had been away at home at the time and it was there that I learnt that the martyr of blessed memory had gone on a pilgrimage to Mecca. My home was at the distance of about 30 miles to the north of Saidgah, the residence of the blessed “Martyr of Kabul”. No sooner did I hear of it than I started for Qadian, because I was aware that he would naturally stop at Qadian and therefore I reached the place some 10 days after the “Martyr of Kabul” had been there. When I overtook the blessed martyr at Qadian, he become exceedingly happy and took me to the Promised Messiah[as] for the purpose of Baiat, the initiation. When we saw the Promised Messiah[as] he told us to wait for a few days more. On this, the “Martyr of Kabul” told the Promised Messiah[as] that there was no need of waiting in the case of Ahmad Nur and that his Baiat may be accepted.

Therefore, the Promised Messiah[as] took me into his Baiat at that very time.

The “Martyr of Kabul” stopped at Qadian for a few months. We used to accompany the Promised Messiah[as] in his daily outdoor walks. On our return, the blessed martyr would not dust his clothes but would wait till he thought that the Promised Messiah[as] had had his clothes dusted. The blessed martyr would often say that the Promised Messiah[as] had come in the garb of Mohamed the Prophet, may peace and the blessing of God be upon them both, and he who made any distinction between the Promised Messiah[as] and Mohamed[sa] the Prophet, did not recognise the Promised Messiah[as] in the right sense.

The blessed “Martyr of Kabul” received many revelations. One day we were sleeping in the guest house. The martyr, all of a sudden, got up and said that Mohamed the Prophet, may peace and the blessings of God be upon him, had spread over him and covered him like a sheet and he became so much merged that he could not be separated from him and the following revelation was received which may thus be rendered. “His body is bright, old and scented and glitters like the hidden pearl. Light upon light.”

And he also said that this light was in his power. Accordingly, one day the martyr asked Maulvi Abdus Sattar to look at his face and he turned towards him. Maulvi Abdus Sattar tried to look in his face, but he could

not do so and so he had to take off his eyes – and when the “Martyr of Kabul” stood erect, then Maulvi Sahib Abdus Sattar looked up and abruptly said, “God be blessed and blessed be God.” The Maulvi Sahib of Waziris asked Maulvi Abdus Sattar what he had seen. Maulvi Abdus Sattar smiled and said that he had seen much and also said that when he had looked at his face, it was glittering like the Sun and therefore his eyes were dazzled and so he had to cast down his looks and when the martyr raised up his head, he was then able to see. The “Martyr of Kabul” told the Maulvi of Waziris that as he was deficient in Taqwa (piety) therefore he could not see anything.

To the blessed “Martyr of Kabul” were revealed many curious things. One day while going to the ‫ یتشہب ربقمہ‬i.e., “Celestial Cemetery,” he called on his companions that they were left behind and that they should try to come up with him because his condition at that time had grown so delicate that it was very difficult to describe it and that the blessings and the light of the Prophet were in his power and then he called upon Maulvi Abdus Sattar to look in his face for a moment. Maulvi Abdus Sattar says that he could look at the Sun which is so high in the heavens but he could not look at the forehead of the blessed martyr because it was shedding such a lustre that its rays far exceeded in brightness [than] the rays of the Sun. The blessed “Martyr of Kabul” lived at Qadian for nearly three months. Whenever the Promised Messiah[as] used to go, the blessed “Martyr of Kabul” was always in his company, and the Promised Messiah[as] loved him exceedingly. Once the Promised Messiah[as] was going out for a walk and the blessed “Martyr of Kabul” and some other persons were accompanying him. When the Promised Messiah[as] came back, the “Martyr of Kabul” came to his residence and addressed us as follows: “Today, a very curious thing happened when I was accompanying the Promised Messiah[as] on the walk. A hourie from Paradise came before me in a beautiful dress and asked me to look at her, but I told her that as long as the Promised Messiah[as] was with me I could not leave him and look at her, and therefore she went away crying.”

Once upon a time, we all went out with the Promised Messiah[as] for a walk.

When we came back, the blessed “Martyr of Kabul” asked me whether I had seen my father. I replied that I had not seen him. The “Martyr of Kabul” said that he was walking along with you and behind the Promised Messiah[as]. But my father had been dead for a good many years. The blessed martyr

19

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022

‘The Martyr of Kabul’ ness – Part II

eligions [English], March, April & May, 1922

Hazrat Sahibzada Abdul Latif Shaheedra (seated left on the ground)

used to eat very little and often he would say that he heard the noise of the hell, and if we wanted to hear of it, we should also eat very little.

Once Ajab Khan, Tehsildar, resident of Zaida, came to Qadian and stopped with us.

Afterwards, he secured permission of the Promised Messiah[as] to go home, and came to the blessed Martyr and told him that he had secured the permission of the Promised Messiah[as], but he had not secured the permission of Maulvi Nur Din. The blessed martyr pressed upon Ajab Khan to secure the permission of Maulvi Nur Din also, because he was to become the first Khalifa after the Promised Messiah[as]. Accordingly, when the blessed martyr wished to return home, he read 2 or 3 pages of Bukhari Sharif with Maulvi Nur Din and said that he had done this so that he may also be counted as one of the disciples of Maulvi Nur Din who was to be the first Khalifa after the Promised Messiah[as].

The blessed “Martyr of Kabul” had come on six months’ leave. When the time of departure drew near, he asked for leave from the Promised Messiah[as] to go home.

The Promised Messiah[as] asked him to stay on till the time of next pilgrimage which he should start for from Qadian, rather than go home and then return back. The blessed martyr replied that he should get back and return again the next year for the pilgrimage.

When the “Martyr of Kabul” left Qadian for Afghanistan, the Promised Messiah[as] and his followers went with him for a good mile and a half to bid him good-bye.

When the time of departure drew near, the “Martyr of Kabul” fell in dust at the feet of

the Promised Messiah[as] and with both his hands he took hold of the latter’s feet and asked the Promised Messiah[as] to pray for him. The Promised Messiah[as] said that he was going to pray for him so he should let go of his feet. But the martyr would not leave off the feet of Messiah whereupon the former said: “‫”الامر فوق الادب‬, that is, obedience stood superior to all respectful behaviour, whereat he let go the Promised Messiah’s feet, who then bid him goodbye.

I and Maulvi Abdus Satar and a few other disciples of the “Martyr of Kabul” went along with the martyr to Lahore and stopped in a mosque near the old house of Mian Chiragh-ud-din Sahib for 3 or 4 days. We had stopped there to purchase a few books and get them bound. There in Lahore were the houses of many friends, but the martyr stopped in a mosque as he liked seclusion.

One night the followers of Chakralwi came to him and asked him about the Promised Messiah[as]. The “Martyr of Kabul” told them that the Promised Messiah[as] was the Ahmad of last days. The followers of Chakralwi said that the Promised Messiah[as] said that he was Ghulam Ahmad.

The martyr of blessed memory told them not to say Ghulam Ahmad but only Ahmad, and remarked that if they will say he was Ghulam Ahmad, then according to the saying “‫ ”سيد القوم خادمﻬا‬he will become Sayad and they by so saying will raise his rank even above the Prophet Muhammad, may peace and the blessings of God be upon him, and therefore they should only say that the Promised Messiah[as] was Ahmad.

Hearing this, the followers of Chakralwi

kept silent. Then the followers of Chakralwi put forward their own teaching before him and asked the “Martyr of Kabul” what he said about the man teaching such ideas. The Martyr replied that if the person taught such ideas purposely, he was a Kafir, otherwise he was a mad man.

One day Mian Mairaj-ud-Din came and told the blessed martyr that the dinner was ready. When we all stood up, Mian Mairajud-Din took us to a house where many persons were assembled together. On seeing the blessed martyr, the people rose and each one asked him to sit by his side, at which the blessed martyr grew angry and told Man Mairaj-nd-din that he was not an alms-eater and that it was not right for him to bring him here. Saying this, the blessed martyr came out of the house and I also followed him. There was no one with us to show us the way to the mosque. On this, the blessed martyr told me to walk in front. I without knowing the way to the mosque walked on and on and we both reached the mosque without any difficulty. When all the books were bound, we left Lahore for Kohat by the railway train.

On reaching there, we secured the services of a tumtum [transport vehicle] driver whom we paid one rupee in advance to take us to Bannu the next morning. When the day dawned, a government man came and impressed the tumtumwala [driver of tumtum] to do the driving for him. We did not know of it and when he did not appear in time, the blessed martyr sent me after him, I started in search of the man and at last found him. The man said that he could not accompany me as he was impressed by

a government servant. I asked him to return the earnest money, but the man refused to pay it back to me. Meanwhile, the Tehsildar came upon the scene and I asked him to send the tumtum and the man with me as I had hired it before the government man took it or tell the man to return the advance money. The Tehsildar Sahib replied that he could not send the man and the tumtum as the government work required them urgently. I told the Tehsildar that I was also a man of government and then after some discussion, the earnest money was returned to me. As the haggling and protestation with the tumtumwala and the Tehsildar had taken me long, our men, being tired of waiting long, said to the blessed martyr that neither the tumtumwala returned nor their own man, meaning myself. Had I returned by that time, they would have been in a position to start and that it was very difficult to bring back the tumtumwala or get back the earnest money. On this, the blessed martyr told them that he had sent such a man after the tumtumwala that either he will bring back the man or realise from him the earnest money and that he was such a man that if he were made to stand before a mountain, he would clear the mountain asunder and pass through it to the other side.

When the martyr said so, I appeared before them and then the blessed martyr called on them to see the truth of his assertion.

When we were travelling by the train to Kohat, the blessed martyr was reading the Quran. He told us that he was going to compete with the train in swiftness, and that the train was saying, that she was quicker in running while he (the Martyr) said that he was quicker than her in reciting the Quran.

When the blessed martyr had uttered these words, the speed of the engine began suddenly to diminish. The driver tried his best to run it on, but the train at last stopped in the way and the people came out of it and cried out “The ass has stopped,” “The ass has stopped.” At last, we hired another tumtum for Bannu and started for that place. The martyr kept on reciting Quran in the tumtum, and when the time of the afternoon prayer came, the martyr read with us the prayer in falling rain. It was a torrential rain but the prayer was conducted by the martyr with composure and peace without any sign of a hurry. At night, we reached Khurram, a place 43 miles to the south of Kohat on the trunk road. At night, the martyr purchased a goat from the owner of the Sarai [an inn] and slaughtered it for us and we and the men of the Sarai all ate of it. At last, we reached Bannu and stopping there for a day or two we left for Khost. We reached Daur in a tumtum. The numberdar [headman of a village] of that place became exceedingly glad on our arrival and slaughtered a lamb for us and gave us a sumptuous dinner. In the morning, men from Khost rode down to us to receive us. The blessed martyr rode on a horse and we all walked on foot and reached Saidgah, the residence of the blessed martyr.

On the way the blessed martyr used to tell us that he often received the revelation ‫اذهﺐ الى‬ ‫“( فرعون‬Go thou to Pharoah”). At that time, Habib Ullah Khan was the Amir of Kabul.

(To be continued) (Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original published in The Review of Religions, March, April & May, 1922)

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Friday Sermon 8 April 2022 Ramadan: Become devoted servants of Allah (Ibad-ur-Rahman) After reciting the tashahud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa recited verse 187 of Surah al-Baqarah and then commenced with the sermon by saying:

The translation of this verse is: “And when My servants ask thee about Me, say, ‘I am near. I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he prays to Me. So they should hearken to Me and believe in Me, that they may follow the right way.’”

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, we are passing through the month of Ramadan.

This is a month in which prayers are accepted; owing to His special mercy, Allah

the Almighty has declared that prayers will be accepted in this month. Allah has enabled the fountain of His special grace to flow forth, because in this month, every action of an individual is carried out for the sake of attaining Allah’s pleasure, to the extent that one only eats and drinks at certain times as commanded by Allah the Almighty. For this reason, the Holy Prophetsa has explained that Allah the Almighty has said that in this

month, the doors of Paradise are opened and the doors to hell are closed. In this month, Satan is shackled in chains. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Siyam, Bab Fadl Shahr Ramadan, Hadith 2493)

Thus, it is our good fortune that Allah the Almighty has provided us with such means, which we can use to attain His nearness. Despite being provided with such means from Allah the Almighty, it would be a great misfortune on our part if we failed to

derive the blessings from it.

During the month of Ramadan, are there no fornicators, robbers, thieves and immoral people in the world, who commit their ill deeds? They most certainly do!

If everyone’s Satan is shackled, then how is it possible that they commit these evil deeds? This, in fact, is an admonishment for the believers, for those who wish to gain the nearness of Allah the Almighty. Allah

21

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022 the Almighty says that “in the month of Ramadan since you keep yourself away from those things that are generally permissible for you, I therefore give you the glad-tidings that Satan, who is generally allowed to roam around freely and who sought respite from Allah the Almighty in order to attack and mislead people from every direction, has been shackled today for such people during the month of Ramadan and I have taken those who observe the fast solely for My sake under My complete protection. They are reducing their [physical] nourishment and trying to increase in spirituality.” Just as the Promised Messiahas has said that they [i.e. the believers] reduce their physical nourishment and increase their spiritual nourishment, or try to do so, and this is the very spirit of Ramadan and fasting. (Malfuzat, Vol. 9, p. 123)

Allah the Almighty completely shackles the Satan of such people. Furthermore, Allah the Almighty also states that “I personally become the reward for the person observing the fast.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Tawhid, Bab

Qaul Allah Ta‘ala Yuridun an Yubaddilu Kalam Allah, Hadith 7492)

What a magnificent glad tiding this is!

Hence, we should try to derive benefit from this, and we should try to enter from each of the doors to Heaven, which Allah the Almighty has opened for us.

It should not be the case that we become among those in relation to whom Allah the Almighty has said that He has no concern for those who remain hungry or thirsty.

If one eats suhoor [pre-dawn meal] in the morning and breaks their fast in the evening, but they do not perform the virtuous deeds that are expected of them during the day, then remaining hungry and thirsty is of no benefit to them, nor is Allah the Almighty concerned with them remaining hungry and thirsty in this manner. We have received this message through the Holy Prophetsa.

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Saum, Bab man lam Yada Qaul al-Zur…, Hadith 1903)

Hence, we must understand this spirit and try to lead our lives in accordance with this, which is the objective of Ramadan.

The verse that I just recited appears in the middle of the verses which deal with the subject matter of the obligation of Ramadan, its various commandments and which highlight the importance of fasting. In this verse, Allah the Almighty mentions the manner in which prayers are accepted, or those people whose prayers find acceptance.

He mentions the servants of the Gracious God and those who want to become the servants of the Gracious God, who want to escape from Satan’s influence and who want to see their prayers being accepted.

Allah the Almighty has outlined in the very beginning that “O Prophetsa! When My servants ask you, ‘Where is our God’; when they ask you in a restless manner like one who is deeply in love [with their Creator] and when they fervently make every effort in order to reach Allah the Almighty, then Allah the Almighty says that you should tell them not to worry. I am near! Hence, the first condition that Allah the Almighty has outlined in order to attain Him is to become a servant of Allah the Almighty. If a person fulfils the due rights of being a servant of God Almighty, then Allah the Almighty says that He listens to their supplications and He also shackles their Satan. He comes to help whenever Satan attacks, not just for

one month of the year, which is the month of Ramadan; rather, Allah the Almighty states He shall always protect such people from the onslaughts of Satan, provided they do justice to their worship and continue to adhere to Allah the Almighty’s commandments.

One should not only carry out good deeds in the month of Ramadan alone; rather, they should continuously fulfil the rights owed to Allah and the rights owed to His creation, act upon the teachings of the Holy Quran and strengthen their faith.

Allah the Almighty says that one should have perfect faith and conviction in all of His attributes, and then they will witness just how their prayers are accepted, and those who shape their lives in this way are the ones who will attain true guidance.

Therefore, fortunate indeed are those among us who make this Ramadan a permanent means for the acceptance of prayers, who are the true servants of Allah the Almighty, who act upon the commandments of Allah the Almighty and who perfect their faith.

We are fortunate that Allah the Almighty has enabled us to accept the Imam of this age, the true ardent devotee of the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi, who showed us the path to attain the nearness to Allah the Almighty and the ways by which our prayers can attain acceptance. In one instance the Promised Messiahas states: “There is only one door which Allah the Almighty has opened for the betterment of His creation, and that is prayer. When a person enters through this door whilst weeping and crying, the Benevolent Lord covers them with a cloth of purity and chastity, and encapsulates them with His grandeur, so much so that they develop a complete aversion to vain acts and improper activities.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 438, 1984 edition) Then, whilst expounding upon developing the necessary state for the acceptance of prayer, and the requirements for prayer to be accepted and for one to become a true servant of Allah the Almighty, the Promised Messiahas states: “It is true to say that a person who does not perform appropriate action does not truly pray, but rather tests God. So, before one prays, it is necessary to make full use of one’s faculties and this is the meaning of this supplication:

ّ ‫ۡاهدنَا‬ َ ‫الص َر َاط ال ۡ ُم ۡس َت ِق‬ ‫يم‬ ِ ِ

“[‘Guide us in the right path.’]”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “First it is incumbent upon a person to analyse their own beliefs and actions. It is the custom of God Almighty to bring about reformation through the use of means. He creates some sort of means, which become the cause for a person’s reformation. Those people who say that when there is prayer, means have no use, should reflect”, i.e. those who claim that if one prays, then there is no need for means, materials or effort.

The Promised Messiahas continues, “Do such foolish ones not realise that even prayer itself is a subtle means that gives rise to other means?” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 124, 1984 edition)

Prayer is itself a subtle means and gives rise to other means.

Thus, in order to attain the acceptance of prayers and to become a servant of God Almighty, it is incumbent that one strives to beseech Allah the Almighty for His grace,

and that is to cry and weep to become among the servants of God and to endeavour in this pursuit. One should pray to be counted amongst His servants. Namely, among those who, through their belief and actions, demonstrate that they belong solely to Allah the Almighty and who before praying, shape their actions in accordance with the pleasure of God Almighty and they become amongst those whose faith is unshakeable.

They are strong and firm; they have firm conviction that Allah the Almighty has the power to turn even a grain of sand into gold, that He has the power to turn even the most depraved into His chosen servants and reveal to them His paths. Then, such people would become those who walk the paths that would lead them to God Almighty. This subject-matter has been mentioned by Allah the Almighty in the Holy Quran as well, that He guides those who struggle and make an effort to walk in the path of God. Allah the Almighty states:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذيْ َن ٰج َه ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡه ِديَن ُه ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

That is, “And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.” (Ch.29: V.70) In short, the month of Ramadan is for this very jihad [struggle]. During this month, we should try our utmost and partake in this jihad to become among those people of God Almighty who are His true servants; become among those people whom Allah the Almighty is close to; among those people whose prayers are heard by Allah the Almighty; among those people who abide by the commandments of Allah the Almighty; among those who have absolute faith and conviction in all the attributes of Allah the Almighty; among those who are truly guided; among those whose inner Satan has been shackled forever. However, as it is apparent from the words of Allah the Almighty, we must first struggle and make an effort to achieve this, and transform ourselves according to the will of Allah the Almighty. In this regard, the Promised Messiahas has imparted guidance to us on many occasions and in light of various aspects. Hence, in one instance, the Promised Messiahas states: “How could it be that a person who is very heedlessly indolent is yet benefitting from the grace of God in the same way that a person who, using all their mental capacity, all their effort and with absolute sincerity, seeks out the grace of God. Allah the Almighty has alluded to this in another instance, where He states:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذيْ َن ٰج َه ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡه ِديَن ُه ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

That is, ‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.’” (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part IV, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 1, pp. 566-567, Footnote 11)

Thus, it is clear that one who is heedless and indolent will not be included by God Almighty amongst those people who, with all their faculties and abilities, strive to attain the nearness of God Almighty and partake of this jihad.

People often pose this question in their letters to me saying that they have prayed a lot; however, they were unsuccessful in their objective. Those who say this are wrong.

Allah the Almighty cannot be wrong.

What one considers to be a high standard of prayer could very well be deficient in

the sight of Allah the Almighty, in which case one would be required to struggle and endeavour further. Such a person should also re-evaluate the manner in which they pray.

The Promised Messiahas is stating that those who, using their utmost mental capacity, effort and sincerity, seek God, Allah the Almighty states that He will surely guide them to His path. Thus, we must evaluate whether we have, according to all of our intellectual capacity and human faculties, acted upon this commandment of Allah the Almighty:

ُ ‫َف ۡل َي ۡس َتج‬ ‫يبوْا ل ِ ْي‬ ِ

“They should hearken to Me.” (Ch.2: V.187) Are we acting in complete obedience to the commandments of Allah the Almighty?

Have we exerted all our strengths to hearken to every word of Allah the Almighty? Are we abiding by the commandments of Allah the Almighty with complete sincerity and loyalty? If the answer is no, then we cannot complain that Allah the Almighty has not accepted our prayers. Thus, for the acceptance of prayers, one must first reform themselves and take a step towards God Almighty. It is incumbent that one carries out a jihad [of self-reformation]. To what extent does one need to struggle and endeavour when Allah the Almighty is so benevolent that He bestows His favour upon His people for the slightest bit of effort?

His mercy, which encompasses all things, makes the jihad of an individual even easier. His mercy makes even this struggle easier. As such, the Holy Prophetsa states that Allah the Almighty has stated, “When an individual takes one step towards Me, I take two steps towards him. When he comes walking swiftly towards me, I run towards him.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Dhikr wa al-Du‘a…, Bab Fadl Dhikr wa al-Du‘a wa al-Taqarrub ila Allah, Hadith 6833)

Thus, Allah the Almighty is immensely benevolent to us; however, the fact remains that sincerity and loyalty are required from us. It should not be that during Ramadan, we claim that we will offer our prayers, that we will act upon the commandments of Allah the Almighty, that we will fulfil the rights of Allah and His creation, and also act upon our claims, but as soon as Ramadan has passed, we forget about God Almighty and His commandments.

If we become engrossed in worldly pursuits, then we cannot have any grievances about God Almighty and say that “God Almighty states that He will listen to the one who calls for Him, and I have called for Allah the Almighty profusely during Ramadan, however, my prayers were not accepted.” We should always remember that nothing is hidden from Allah the Almighty.

He also has knowledge of the previous promises an individual had made to remain loyal but were made and broken, and at present, how such an individual is focused on virtuous acts only during Ramadan.

Allah the Almighty treats such people in whatever manner He pleases. However, it is also true that Allah the Almighty accepts some of the prayers of such people so they realise that He does in fact answer prayers and that they should always be inclined towards Him. Allah the Almighty can never wrong people; rather, He always desires to bestow His love upon them. He is such that He is

Friday 6 May 2022 | AL HAKAM

22

undesirable which God Almighty considers to be undesirable and he begins to love all that which God Almighty loves. At that stage, he attains such strength after which there can be no weakness and he is bestowed such passion after which there can be no laziness. He is granted such righteousness after which there can be no sin. The Lord, most Benevolent becomes so pleased with him that such a person can no longer err.

However, such blessing is only bestowed after a while. In the very beginning, one falters many a time due to their weaknesses and falls short of his purpose; but eventually upon finding him to be sincere, the Higher Power draws him near (Allah the Almighty’s power draws that person towards Him). This is the same thing which Allah the Almighty indicates when he states:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“[‘And (as for) those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways’.]”

The Promised Messiahas explains in Arabic: ُ َ َ ْ َ َ ْ ْ َ َ ْ َّ َ َ ْ ُ ُ ّ َ ُ ‫ان َون ْﻬ ِدي َ ّن� ْ� ُس ُبﻞ ال َم َﺤ ّب ِة‬ ِ ‫نﺜ ِبت�� على التقوى وال ِ�ي َم‬ ْ ْ ُْ ُ ّ َ ُ َ َ َ ْ ْ َ ْ ْ َ َ ِ ‫ا��َيْ َر‬ ‫ان‬ ‫ان وسني ِ���� ل ِ ِﻔع ِﻞ‬ ِ ‫ات وت ْر ِک ال ِعص َي‬ ِ ‫وال ِعرف‬ meaning, “We cause them to be steadfast in virtue and faith and will certainly guide them towards the paths of love and enlightenment. We will continue to enable them with the ability to do good works and to abandon disobedience.” (Tafsir Hazrat Masihe-Maudas, Vol. 3, p. 626)

As I mentioned earlier, the Promised Messiahas has guided us from various perspectives in light of:

more pleased and delighted by an individual who comes back to Him and hearkens to His commandments solely for Him than a mother is delighted to find her lost child. Or He is more delighted than a traveller who, after losing his camel in the desert which is carrying all his belongings, eventually finds it. Thus, these examples have been given to us by the Holy Prophetsa to teach us to what extent Allah the Almighty expresses His pleasure. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Adab, Bab Rahmat al-Walad…, Hadith 5999, Kitab al-Da‘wat, Bab al-Taubah, Hadith 6309)

Therefore, we are to blame for being negligent in fulfilling the rights of God Almighty, and on top of that, we complain that Allah the Almighty did not answer our prayers. Hence, we should all evaluate ourselves in this regard. We should pledge that we will make this Ramadan a means to seek and attain God Almighty; we will strive to act upon His commandments; we will continue this jihad to seek the love and nearness of Allah the Almighty no matter what circumstances overtake us and no matter how long we must endeavour; we will continue to strive to strengthen our faith. If we are able to bring this condition upon ourselves, then we will also witness the miracles of the acceptance of prayer.

These are not mere words, but many people have attained this rank and continue to do so even today.

The Promised Messiahas states: “1,300 years have elapsed since this verse was revealed and there is no doubt that since then, every person who strove in light of the message conveyed in this verse has benefitted from their share of the promise

َّ َ ‫لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم‬

“[‘We will surely guide them’]; they continue to benefit now and will continue to do so in the future as well.” (Al-Haqq Mubahathah Dehli, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 4, p. 192)

Hence, we must strive to be among those who partake of these blessings of Allah the Almighty. We should never allow our jihad to decrease; whether it is our jihad to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, the jihad of adhering to the commandments of Allah the Almighty, the jihad of following the commandments of the Holy Quran which number more than 700, the jihad of having complete faith, or the jihad of adopting the attributes of Allah the Almighty. Every step we take should be towards progress and this Ramadan should be a milestone in this jihad.

I will present some more quotations and extracts of the Promised Messiahas on this topic. This is a topic which one must understand by listening to it over and over again. If this truly becomes a part of our lives, then we can bring about a transformation in the world. The Promised Messiahas states: “As we observe clearly that in our worldly life, there is an inevitable result for every action of ours, and that result is the act of God Almighty, the same law operates in religious matters also. For instance, God Almighty states in the following two examples:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“[‘(As for) those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide then in Our ways.’

(Ch.29: V.70)]

ُ ُ ّٰ َ َ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ ‫فل ّما زاﻏوٓا أزاغ الل ُه قلوبَ ُہ ۡم‬ “[‘So when they deviated (from the right course) Allah caused their hearts to deviate.’(Ch.61: V.6)] “This means that in consequence of the full striving of a person towards seeking God, the inevitable act of God is to guide him along the ways that lead to Him. As a contrast, it is said: ‘When they deviated from the right course and did not desire to tread along the straight path, the divine action followed in that their hearts were made perverse.’” (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, p. 125)

This is another perspective presented by the Promised Messiahas; Allah the Almighty states that if we strive to attain His path and then reap its rewards as a result, we must remember that there is also an opposite side to this as well. If one does not tread upon His path, then our hearts will become perverse. The acceptance of prayer aside, the result of refusing to tread upon Allah’s path will lead us to landing in the lap of Satan.

A person who finds themselves in the lap of Satan ruins their life both in this world and the Hereafter. Therefore, where on the one hand this statement bears glad tidings, on the other, it contains a warning from Allah the Almighty. Expounding further, the Promised Messiahas states on another occasion: “A person undergoes many different changes in state; in the end God Almighty removes the weakness of righteous souls and out of His generosity bestows upon them the ability to establish piety and virtue. That person then considers all those things to be

َّ َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا‬

and has thus opened the doors of knowledge and understanding. With regard to this quote, the Promised Messiahas has painted a picture of human nature and explained that a person cannot always remain in the same state. There are always ups and downs in our disposition; however, a pure-natured person learns from even his mistakes; he repents and seeks forgiveness, he submits himself before Allah the Almighty and is embarrassed due to his weakness.

He then once again goes forth in the jihad of searching for Allah the Almighty, upon which Allah the Almighty’s love comes into action, His forgiveness comes into action and He comes running towards His servant, granting him the ability to establish piety and virtue. When, by the grace of Allah, a person is granted the ability to establish piety and virtue, then his every action is for the sake of attaining God Almighty’s pleasure. He becomes free from every sort of weakness and indolence and treads upon the path of righteousness, thereby being saved from sin. A person who attains such pleasure from Allah the Almighty no longer commits such faults which would incur God Almighty’s displeasure.

The Promised Messiahas further states: “However, bear in mind that in order to achieve this, one must strive continuously.”

This cannot be achieved through temporary efforts; rather, it requires constant effort, which will result in virtues and the acceptance of prayer becoming a part of one’s life.

On another occasion, the Promised Messiahas stated: “‘We will show Our ways to he who

23

AL HAKAM | Friday 6 May 2022 strives in Our path’. This is a promise. Then, we have also been taught the prayer:

ّ ‫ۡاھدنَا‬ َ ‫الص َر َاط ال ۡ ُم ۡس َت ِق‬ ‫يم‬ ِ ِ

“‘Guide us in the right path’. Hence, one should keep this in mind whilst offering prayer and beseech with the hope that they may also be included among those who have attained success and insight. It should not be that he passes on from this world bereft of insight and spiritually blind.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 120, 1984 edition)

Hence, in order to reach the stage where Allah the Almighty guides His servant to His path, it is also essential to recite the following prayer and one should repeat this often while reciting Surah al-Fatihah:

ّ ‫ۡاھدنَا‬ َ ‫الص َر َاط ال ۡ ُم ۡس َت ِق‬ ‫يم‬ ِ ِ

[“Guide us to the right path”].

There is an incident recorded about an elder from Qadian and what his condition would be while offering prayer. The narrator says that once, a companion of the Promised Messiahas was standing in prayer in a corner of the Mubarak Mosque. He was weeping in fervent prayer and had been standing for an extended period with his arms folded. The narrator says he could also hear a faint sound and so he became curious and thought to go closer in order to hear what he was saying and found that he was constantly reciting:

ّ ‫ۡاھدنَا‬ َ ‫الص َر َاط ال ۡ ُم ۡس َت ِق‬ ‫يم‬ ِ ِ

[“Guide us in the right path”] while weeping profusely. Hence, one should offer this prayer a great deal in order to attain guidance.

Then, the Promised Messiahas states: “It is a true promise of God Almighty that whosoever searches for His path with a sincere heart and pure intentions, Allah will in turn open the path of guidance and wisdom for that individual, as Allah has stated:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.’

The meaning of ‘those who strive in Our path’ is that a person ought to strive with the sole intention of finding God and for them to set out to establish a connection with Him with full sincerity.” Such a person has no worldly objective in mind and their sole purpose is to find God Almighty with true sincerity. “However, if a person does this by way of mockery and ridicule, then such a person is unfortunate and will remain deprived.”

The Promised Messiahas further says: “Therefore, keeping this fundamental principle in view, if you strive with a sincere heart and continue to pray, then Allah is Most-Forgiving and Merciful. But if a person does not care in the slightest about Allah, then Allah the Almighty is Self-Sufficient.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 439, 1984 edition) In such a case, Allah the Almighty will show no concern for that individual.

The Promised Messiahas then says: “In all worldly activities, man has to strive initially.” With regard to worldly endeavours one has to put the effort in, such as in one’s work. This is the example in day-to-day life. “When a person struggles, then Allah the Almighty sends down His blessings. In the same manner, only those individuals achieve excellence who strive in the way of Allah. For this reason, Allah has

stated:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“Therefore, one ought to strive because striving is the key to success.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 224, 1984 edition)

Thus, if we exhaust all our efforts in order to achieve our worldly goals, then why do we not exhaust all our efforts in order to find the paths that lead to God? Why do people assume that if one simply utters a phrase they would find God Almighty or that He would accept their prayers?”

Even here, the same issue has been mentioned regarding those who say that their prayers are not accepted; however, such people must first analyse themselves. It cannot be the case that it would be simple to find the path to Allah the Almighty but then one would have to put effort in order to attain worldly objectives. The same principles apply in all matters.

With regard to striving in order to forge a connection with Allah the Almighty, the Promised Messiahas has written in another place: “Those people who strive in Allah’s path, are eventually guided towards the right way.

Without effort and irrigation, just as a seed fails to thrive, and in fact is destroyed, in the same way, unless a person vows each day and supplicates to God for His help, divine grace will not descend, and without divine help, it is impossible to bring about a transformation.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 225, 1984 edition)

Thus, this is the law of nature and it is necessary in order to find the path to Allah.

After planting a seed, just as a farmer does not sit idle, in the same way, if a person professes belief and remains idle, they will achieve nothing. Rather, one must strive and protect the flower of faith [as it were].

The Promised Messiahas further says: “Whosoever turns towards Allah the Almighty, in turn, Allah the Almighty turns to that individual. Indeed, it is vital for one to try their utmost not to err. Then, when one’s struggle and effort reaches their pinnacle, it is at that point that they will see the light of Allah. In the verse:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

there is an indication that one ought to strive and do justice to it – it should not be the case that if water can be found at a depth of 20 feet, one digs only two feet and gives up.”

If water can be found by digging 20 or 30 feet, one cannot stop after digging two or four feet saying that no water can be found.

The Promised Messiahas states: “In every task the key to success is to never give up. Then for this ummah, Allah the Almighty has vouchsafed that if a person prays and purifies themselves, then all the promises found in the Quran will be fulfilled in their favour.” Whoever makes an effort and prays to their utmost and also purifies themselves, then all the promises found in the Holy Quran will be fulfilled in their favour. “But the one who acts contrary to this will remain deprived, because Allah the Almighty is most honourable. Certainly, He has established paths that lead to Him, but the doors to enter are narrow. Only the one who drinks the bitter cup of hardships can reach there.” One has to put in the effort “driven by the worry of their worldly endeavours, people put themselves through

great hardships.”

The Promised Messiahas states: “Driven by the worry of their worldly endeavours, people put themselves through great hardships, to the extent that some even destroy themselves owing to it, but they do not wish to endure even the prick from a thorn in the way of Allah the Almighty.

Until a person shows truthfulness, patience and loyalty, Allah does not send down His Mercy. How then can one see the signs of Allah’s mercy?” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 291, 1984 edition)

This is the answer to those people who claim, as mentioned earlier, that they prayed a lot, but their prayers were not accepted.

In other words, they try to bound Allah the Almighty that they will present themselves before Allah when they wish, and only when they are in need, and that – God forbid – Allah is compelled to accept their prayers according to their wishes. However, as the Promised Messiahas has stated that even in one’s worldly affairs and relations, this is not the case, then why does one expect that in matters relating to Allah the Almighty, in that everything will happen as one pleases and without any effort.

The Promised Messiahas says: “Come towards Allah the Almighty with sincerity and then observe the display of His love.”

He further says: “Faith without any deeds is like an orchard without a stream” – an orchard cannot flourish without water. “When a tree is planted, if the owner does not ensure for its irrigation, then that tree will eventually wither away. The same is the case of faith.

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“This means do not settle for small and minute efforts; rather, one ought to strive to their utmost in Allah’s way. The soul has been likened to an ox.” (Tafsir Hazrat Masih-eMaudas, Vol. 3, p. 631)

Thus, Allah the Almighty states:

ُ ۡ ‫َول ُي ۡﺆ ِمنوْا �ِي‬

Meaning “those who supplicate to Me ought to have faith in Me”, faith means to do justice to one’s belief in God by fulfilling the rights of Allah and the rights of His creation.

Allah the Almighty instructs people to nourish and safeguard the orchard of their faith. Even in our homes, we see that the plants in our homes dry up if we do not care for them regularly. Then how can we leave our orchard of faith unattended.

The Promised Messiahas has explained this matter from another perspective as follows: “Allah the Almighty states that those who strive in His way will be guided. This means that one must strive alongside the prophet. Striving for an hour or two and then abandoning it is not deemed as striving; rather, one must be ready to sacrifice their lives. Thus, perseverance is the hallmark of a righteous person.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 125, 1984 edition)

Therefore, if we have pledged to give precedence to our faith over all worldly objectives, then in order to remain true to our pledge, it is vital for us to take note of what our faith demands of us, which we have pledged to give precedence to. And then we must remain established upon it with steadfastness.

The Promised Messiahas then says:

“A person who endeavours to find the path of Allah the Almighty whilst instilling His fear in him and offering supplications for the achievement of this task, then Allah the Almighty, owing to His divine law of:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“that is, ‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways’, He Himself takes hold of their hand and guides them to His path and grants contentment to their hearts. However, if one’s heart is engulfed in darkness and they find it a burdensome task to utter prayers and their beliefs are tainted with shirk [associating partners with Allah] and harmful innovations, then what significance do their prayers and supplications hold in order to acquire fruitful results?” (Tafsir Hazrat Masih-e-Maudas, Vol. 3, p. 632)

Thus, we have to continually assess ourselves as to whether we are seeking the paths of Allah the Almighty with this thought in mind and whether our hearts are completely free from associating partners with Allah.

With regard to taubah [repentance] and istighfar [seeking forgiveness], the Promised Messiahas states: “Taubah and istighfar are the means to attain Allah the Almighty. Allah the Almighty states:

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“[‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.’]

“If one continues to endeavour in His path with all their effort, they will ultimately attain their objective. Allah the Almighty does not hold anything back from anyone.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 107, 1984 edition) The Promised Messiahas further states: “In light of the Quranic teachings, my understanding is that on the one hand, Allah the Almighty has mentioned in the Holy Quran His divine attributes of mercy, kindness and benevolence and also as being the Most Gracious, and on the other hand He states:

َّ َ ْ ۡ َ ۡ َّ َ ‫ان ِإلا َما َس َع ٰی‬ ِ ‫أن ليﺲ ل ِ� ِ�نس‬

“[‘And that man will have nothing but what he strives for’ (Ch.53: V.40)]

َّ َ َ َّ َ​َ ‫َوال ِذیْ َن ٰج َہ ُد ْوا فِ ْينا لَن ۡہ ِدیَن ُہ ۡم ُس ُبلنا‬

“[‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.’ (Ch.29: V.70)] “Thus, in order to acquire His grace, Allah the Almighty has stipulated the condition of employing effort and to strive.

The practice of the companions, may Allah be pleased with them, is a perfect example before us. Ponder at the lives of the companions; did they acquire these ranks by merely offering the basic prayers? Certainly not! In fact, in order to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, they did not even care about their lives and sacrificed themselves like sheep and goats for the sake of God Almighty, it was only then that they attained such ranks.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “I have observed many people who simply wish that they be blown on and thereby instantly be granted these ranks and have access to the threshold of the Divine.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 205, 1984 edition) This is not possible. Indeed, Allah the

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Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

Almighty is Merciful and Benevolent, but at the same time, He has stipulated a condition for those who wish to attain perfect belief that they have to strive in His path.

It is only then that Allah the Almighty continues to elevate their ranks and grants them the signs of the acceptance of their prayers. They witness the signs of His grace and mercy more than ever before just as the Companions did, who were so infused with the love of God Almighty that there is no example to be found thereof. And even if they lost their lives in the way of Allah the Almighty, they attained Paradise and gladtidings of Allah the Almighty’s pleasure.

The Promised Messiahas further states: “Those who devote themselves to God Almighty and try to passionately seek Him and with utmost fervency, their effort and struggle is never wasted. They are most certainly shown the way and are granted guidance. One who takes a step towards God with sincerity and pure intention, God comes towards him to guide him. It is incumbent upon man to greatly ponder and instil within him a true yearning to search for the truth. One ought to adhere to the path which Allah the Almighty has outlined to widen the scope of one’s knowledge. One who becomes heedless of God, then God also does not show any concern for such a person.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 284, 1984 edition) The Promised Messiahas states: “Make an effort in order to improve your inner self. Supplicate in your salat. Through charity and good deeds, and every other way try and become among those regarding whom it said:

َّ َ ‫َوال ِذيْ َن ٰج َه ُد ْوا فِ ْينا‬

“[‘And as for those who strive in Our path …’]

Just as a person who is suffering from an illness goes to a doctor and takes medication, empties their bowels, does

bloodletting and applies heat and adopts every kind of method to cure himself, in the same way, one should employ every effort in order to cure themselves of their spiritual ailments. Not just by the utterance of their tongue, but through effort and struggle. One should adopt all the methods which God Almighty has mentioned.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 8, p.

188, 1984 edition)

Thus, these are the ways through which the paths to attain Allah the Almighty are revealed to them and also draw one’s attention towards prayers. The Promised Messiahas states: “One should consider this life to be so detestable that they should try and seek a way out of it. Do not consider this life to be everything; in fact, this life is only temporary and one should consider this worldly life to be filthy. One should pray because when one truly does justice in their efforts and truly prays, then in the end Allah the Almighty grants salvation and one comes away from the life of sin. This is because prayer is no ordinary thing; rather, it is a form of death.

When one accepts this form of death, then Allah the Almighty saves such a person from the life of sin, which can lead to death, and, in turn, they are granted a pure life.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “There are many people who consider prayer as an insignificant act. One should remember that prayer does not mean to simply offer salat and then sit with their hands raised and utter whatever comes to mind. One cannot benefit from such prayer because this form of prayer is just mere lip service; neither is one’s heart devoted to such a prayer, nor do they have belief in the powers of Allah the Almighty. Remember that prayer is a kind of death and just like at the time of one’s death they experience restlessness and anxiousness, similarly it is essential that one expresses intense emotion and fervency in their prayers. Hence, until

one does not express such restlessness and fervency in their prayers, they cannot fulfil their objective. One ought to wake up in the night and present their difficulties before God Almighty with utmost fervency, weeping and humility. One should perform their prayers to such a degree as if a kind of death has overcome them. It is then that prayers reach the stage of acceptance.”

The Promised Messiahas states: “The first and foremost prayer is that one should pray to become pure from sin.

This forms the basis and essence for all the prayers because when this prayer is accepted and one becomes cleansed from all kinds of impurity and filth and stands pure in the sight of God Almighty, then all other prayers that one supplicates for their needs”, i.e. the prayers which are made to fulfil one’s worldly needs, etc. “are fulfilled even without one having to pray for them. The prayer to become free of sin is one that requires great effort and struggle. The most significant prayer is for one to pray that they become free from sin and become righteous and pious in the sight of God Almighty. In other words, it is essential that one first removes the initial coverings that shroud one’s heart.

Once they have removed this then one does not have to employ as much effort and struggle to remove the other coverings because in such an instance thousands of ills are removed themselves owing to the grace of Allah the Almighty. When one’s inner self becomes pure and clean and one establishes a true relationship with Allah the Almighty then Allah the Almighty Himself becomes the guardian and protector of such a person.

And even before one feels the need to pray to Allah the Almighty for any desire of his, Allah the Almighty fulfils it Himself.

“This is a very subtle and hidden matter and is only revealed to those when they attain this stage, but before that, it is very difficult to understand this. However, this

requires an extraordinary effort because prayer also requires one to make great effort and to struggle. One who does not pay heed to prayer and remains distant from it, then Allah the Almighty also does not show any concern for such a person and becomes distant from them. Showing hastiness does not work. God Almighty grants out of His grace and blessings whatever He wills and whenever He wills.

“It does not behove a supplicant to express grievance and begin to think ill upon not being granted something immediately. In fact, one ought to continue supplicating whilst remaining steadfast and showing patience.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 406407, 1984 edition) May Allah the Almighty grant us the ability to adhere to this guidance and enable us to establish a strong bond with Allah the Almighty in this month of Ramadan. May He enable us to follow His guidance and develop perfect faith in Him. May He enable us to witness the signs of the acceptance of our prayers and may this condition remain permanently in us; in the month of Ramadan and extend beyond it as well. May we truly become the servants of Allah the Almighty.

May Allah the Almighty reveal upon us such paths of His from which we never go astray and may He always look upon us with His loving gaze. May we do true justice to our bai‘at with the Imamas of the age. After acquiring this bounty of Allah the Almighty, that is to have accepted the Imamas of the age, may we never become deprived of it.

May Allah the Almighty protect us from the evil ploys of our opponents. May He accept our prayers and cause the evil plans of our opponents to turn against them. May He continue to provide the means for the success of the Jamaat.

Also, make this Ramadan a means to have your prayers accepted. May Allah the Almighty grant us the ability to do this.

Pray also for the current condition of the world. May Allah the Almighty save the world from destruction and grant them wisdom and enable them to recognise God, Who is their true Creator.

After the Friday prayers, I will launch a website which has been created by MTA International as well as a mobile application, in which they have compiled the sermons I have delivered on the 313 companions in one place. On this website, aside from watching the Friday Sermon, members can also read the profiles of the Badri Companionsra, and they can place bookmarks at the point they have read up to. In addition to this, there are questions and answers in the form of a quiz relating to each companion. There are relevant maps, which are beneficial, and they can also be viewed on this website. One can also listen to the Arabic pronunciation of difficult words.

In addition to the content which has been uploaded so far, new research and videos will be uploaded each week. The name of the website is: www.313companions.org.

As I mentioned earlier, I will launch this website after the Friday prayer. May Allah the Almighty enable this to be means of benefit for the people.

(Official Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International, 29 April 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