Al Hakam - 7 April 2023

‘Our

‘Convey thou in the name of thy Lord Who created’

Countless people have come into the world, leaving their footprints in the sands of history and bringing about a revolution that has inspired thousands. History will often remember those who transformed nations and countries.

Undoubtedly, the greatest change and revolution in human history was brought about by the advent of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, the chosen one, the seal of the Prophets. It did not take long for the impact of his message, which he received from Allah the Almighty, to spread far and wide in the Arabian Peninsula and eventually throughout the world. His message and noble character influenced countless individuals and carved the course of history.

It was a habit of the young Muhammadsa to retreat to the cave of Hira and spend time there in contemplation. Being surrounded by a population immersed in idol worship, gambling, adultery drinking, and immorality, our beloved master, Muhammadsa found peace and comfort far away from these things. He would often climb the mountain, find a spot in the cave and remain there for days, taking provisions with him. It was here that the revelation of the Holy Quran began in the month of Ramadan when Allah the Exalted revealed the following words upon the pure heart of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa:

“Convey thou in the name of thy Lord

Who created” (Surah al-‘Alaq, Ch.96: V.2)

The coming down of the Holy Quran, in the holy month of Ramadan, proved to be a pivotal moment in history that transformed Arabia and had a lasting impact on the

world, which is witnessed to this very day. Before the Holy Quran was revealed, Arabia was a region plagued by tribal conflicts,

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

No prophet between me and the Messiah

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrated, “I heard Allah’s Messengersa saying, ‘I am the nearest of all the people to the son of Mary, and all the prophets are paternal brothers, and there is no prophet between me and him.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab ahadithi l-’anbiya’)

In His Own Words Humility of the Holy Prophetsa

“The exalted station [‘uluww] that is granted to the chosen servants of God Almighty is imbued with the hue of humility, whereas Satan’s selfexaltation [‘uluww] was tainted with arrogance. Behold, when our Noble Prophetsa conquered Mecca, he bowed down and prostrated [before Allah], just as he used to do during the days of afflictions and difficulties when he used to face every kind of opposition and be inflicted with hardships in the same [town of] Mecca. Upon seeing the state he had left Mecca in and the state that he was now returning to, his heart was filled with gratitude to God, and he prostrated himself in thanksgiving.” (Al Hakam, 31 October 1902; Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 4, p. 65, footnote)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas,

Surah at-Takwir, al-Infitar, al-Mutaffifin, al-Inshiqaq, al-Buruj, at-Tariq, al-A‘la, al-Ghashiyah, al-Fajr, al-Balad

The English translation of the introduction to chapters of the Holy Quran as given by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh is being presented for the benefit of our readers. Insha-Allah, in the coming issues, we will endeavour to publish the introduction to all chapters of the Holy Quran.

81. Surah at-Takwir

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 30 verses.

Once again, the Holy Quran discloses the great events yet to take place in the world, which will be a testimony to the Hour of Resurrection. The sun has been presented as a witness for when it will be covered, i.e., the enemies of that age will prevent the light of the Holy Prophetsa from reaching mankind, which was meant for their betterment. And their nefarious propaganda will obstruct it. And when the light of the Companionsra will also be made turbid by the opponents. And as in the absence of the sun, the stars give light to some extent, similarly, the light of the Companionsra will be made to vanish from the scene. This will be the time when massive mountains will be made to move, viz., mountain-like massive ships and aeroplanes will be used for travelling and transporting loads; and as compared to them, she-camels will be abandoned like something useless. This will be the time when zoos will be made in abundance. Obviously, zoos did not exist in the time of the Holy Prophetsa, and the present-day zoos also testify that huge animals are transported to them by ships and aeroplanes, and the man of that age could not have even thought of it.

Further, our attention has been drawn probably to naval warfare when ships will be made to sail in abundance. And as a result, people from long distances will be connected together. That is to say, not only beasts but also mankind will be joined. That will be the age of the rule of law, i.e., law will reign over the world so much so that man will not have the authority to wrong even his own children. Ostensibly, law reigns all over the world, but as a result of defiance toward the Divine Law, the law of the world cannot eradicate mischief and disorder from any country. This will be an age of publication of books and magazines in large numbers. And the researchers of space secrets will as if remove the skin of the heavens. On that day, hellfire will be set ablaze, which will be the hell of warfare as well as of heavenly wrath. In spite of this, Paradise will be brought close to those who will abide by the teachings of Allah the Almighty and will adhere to them. Every soul will know what it has produced for the morrow.

In verses 16 and 17, those ships have been presented as witnesses that will recede after their activities and hide in their specified docks. The reason behind this repetition is that it is also a reference to such satanic thoughts that assault the human soul and vanish after the attack. That night has also been cited as a witness that it will finally come to an end and signs of dawn will appear. And finally, this dark night will certainly end at the dawn of Islam.

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 20 verses.

This Surah also starts with the discussion of stars, but mentions their breaking off instead of losing their light; in that man will be completely deprived of the light of stars in the darkness of night too. And talking about oceans, it has been repeated that it is not only in oceans that ships will sail in large numbers, and to find out their secrets, oceans will be pierced, but on land also archaeologists will excavate the tombs of buried past civilizations. On that day, man will know as to what the earlier people had been sending forth, and what the latter ones are going to send forth.

Discussing the Day of Judgement at the end of the Surah, a subject has been raised in a verse that says that temporary masters in the world are not the real ones, but the real

Master is Allah the Almighty, to whom the possession of everything will be returned on the Day of Judgement. And every other soul will be rendered bereft of any possession at all.

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 37 verses.

In this Surah, once again, man’s attention has been drawn towards نا�یم (weight), indicating that they can succeed only when they adhere to justice; not that their measure to take should be different from their measure to give. Through this, an analysis of present-day trade has also been made. Whenever the powerful and richer nations do business with the poorer nations, the latter ones invariably suffer a loss. Allah says, these people do not consider that they will be gathered on a great day of accountability, wherein their business dealings in the world will also be accounted for. This is the Day of Judgement, which was mentioned at the end of the preceding Surah.

In the next verses, a warning has been issued by clearly mentioning the Day of Judgement, in that the disbelievers of the Judgement Day were destroyed in past ages, and will also meet an evil end in the Latter Days as well.

A comparison has been drawn between

the inmates of Hell and the inmates of Paradise in the next verses, and they have been warned that on that day those who were deemed disbelievers and were laughed at, jeered at, and winked at mockingly, will laugh at the disbelievers, and they will ask them as to how they fare now.

84. Surah al-Inshiqaq

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 26 verses.

Continuing with the pattern of the preceding Surahs, once again, great revolutions in the world have been presented as a witness to the Hereafter. Once again, the bursting asunder of heaven is related, which in one sense signifies that various types of calamities will befall.

Next follows the mention of the earth’s spreading out. Apparently, the earth does not seem to be spread out in this world; but at the time of the revelation of the Quran, only half of the earth was known to man, and the rest, by the discovery of the Americas, was intrinsically spread out. And this is the age when the earth will cast out most of her buried secrets; in other words, it will become empty. This new age of scientific development started with the discovery of America.

Next follows the prophecy that when the day will be turning into darkness and then the night will prevail, once again the moon of Islam will rise; that day you will be attaining the final destinations of your stage-by-stage progress.

85. Surah al-Buruj

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 23 verses.

Its connection with the preceding Surah is that the preceding Surah discussed the new advent of the moon of Islam. When will it take place, and what will be its objective? A point to note is that there are twelve mansions of stars in the heavens; in other words, this prophecy will take twelve hundred years to be fulfilled. And as the moon invokes the witness of the sun,

82. Surah al-Infitar

83. Surah al-Mutaffifin

Introduction to chapters of the Holy Quran

similarly, a coming witness will invoke the witness for whom the witness is borne, i.e., the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. And his devout followers will also join him in bearing this testimony. Their only offence will be that they believed in the one whose advent has taken place. In spite of this, they will be severely persecuted, so much so that they will be burnt in fire, and the onlookers will see it happening without any worry. All these incidents are continuously taking place as it is against devoted Ahmadis in Pakistan.

Towards the end of the Surah it has been emphatically warned that when the earlier peoples also perpetrated such cruelties, they were encompassed by their own cruelties. Thus, by that Quran, which is in a wellguarded tablet, you too are going to face punishment for your crimes.

86. Surah at-Tariq

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 18 verses.

This Surah further elaborates on the subject of Surah Al-Buruj, and a prophecy has been made that in that dark night, Allah the Almighty will appoint His heavenly guards who will help those persecuted servants. Why man fails to consider that they can only rejoice and boast? So, finally, they will assuredly be seized for their own evil doing. The Holy Prophetsa and his followers of this age are exhorted to let these people play mischief for some more time;

finally, they will be seized. Thus, wait and give them some respite.

87. Surah al-A‘la

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 20 verses.

A glad tiding has been given at the very beginning of this Surah that the name of Allah the Almighty and His chosen ones will emerge victorious. Thus, you are exhorted to keep on admonishing. An admonition may appear to be frustrated in the beginning, but surely it is indeed profitable. Further, addressing man, (Allah) says: You are deprived of admonition because you have given precedence to temporal life over the life after death, whereas the Hereafter is the only abode of welfare and is more lasting.

88. Surah al-Ghashiyah

This Surah was revealed at Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 27 verses.

This Surah gives a description of such regular calamities that will cover, and on that day, faces will be in extreme fear, and toiling and weary. They will enter a blazing fire, and they will have no food save that of dry, thorny herbage, which will neither nourish them nor satisfy their hunger. This is a similitude that refers to the effects of an apparently sweet fruit that grows on a cactus plant and which extremely bothers those who take it.

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social injustice, and moral decay. A mere study of pre-Islamic Arabian poems paints this very image of Arabia before the dawn of Islam. Thus, a study of early Islamic history will make it clear that the revolution brought by the Holy Prophetsa was no small feat.

During the month of Ramadan, as Muslims, we are reminded of the Holy Quran, the first words and revelation revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

It was in this month that Allah the Almighty deemed it necessary to send a messenger who would re-establish the once-severed connection between God and man. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, very beautifully emphasising and elaborating on this point, states:

“It was this month that God appeared before his servants with the desire to attract His servants towards Himself.” (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 2, p. 394)

During his recent Friday Sermon, Hazrat Khlaifatul Masih Vaa emphasised the importance of the Holy Quran in the month of Ramadan and said:

“Nowadays we are passing through the month of Ramadan. This is a month in which a spiritual atmosphere is fostered, and this is the atmosphere that should be created among the community of believers. Alongside the fasting during this month, greater attention is also given to worship, as it ought to be. Greater attention is given to reciting and listening to the Holy Quran, and if one desires to attain the true blessings of fasting, then along with the worship, greater care should be given to reading and listening to the Holy Quran. Ramadan has a special connection with the Holy Quran, or rather, the Holy Quran has a special connection with Ramadan. Allah Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

“‘The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was sent down as a guidance for mankind with clear proofs of guidance and discrimination.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.186)

“The Quran, which was sent for the guidance of all of mankind, possesses clear proofs that bring about guidance and divine signs. According to some authentic narrations, the first revelation descended upon the Holy Prophetsa on 24 Ramadan. Likewise, every year the angel Gabrielas would complete an entire recitation of the Quran to the Holy Prophetsa in the

month of Ramadan, and in the final year, he completed it twice. So as it were, the Holy Quran holds special importance in relation to Ramadan. Therefore, we must also give special attention during this month to reading and listening to the Holy Quran, and to reading its commentary. Programmes in this regard are being aired on MTA, as well as lectures, so one ought to pay attention to these. Only when we recite the Holy Quran along with its translation, then read and listen to its commentary can we truly understand the commandments mentioned therein, incorporate them into our lives, shape our lives in accordance with the Quranic teachings, and become the recipients of Allah’s grace. Hence, if we wish to attain the true blessings of Ramadan, we must pay special attention to the recitation of the Holy Quran. One should also listen to the addresses that are being delivered in the mosques.” (Friday Sermon, 31 March 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJP2kVJuhbg)

This blessed month reminds us of God’s bounties and when the young Muhammadsa entered the cave of Hira and emerged as a Prophet of Allah destined to bring about a great change in the world.

We are reminded of the bounties of Allah and the revelation of the Holy Quran. Allah introduced Himself in the holy month of Ramadan as “thy Lord, Who created”. We are reminded of the spiritual shift that caused a transformation to take place on earth and the re-establishment of Tawhid, which was long forgotten.

Alluding to the grand change brought by the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas explained:

“He taught human values to a people who were savages and brutes. In other words, he transformed brutes into men, men into civilised men, and civilised men into godly men. He infused spiritual qualities into them and established their communion with the True God.” (Lecture Sialkot, p. 6)

This holy month, with all the blessings it is shrouded in, reminds us of our Creator, who revealed Himself to the world by connecting the Earth with the heavens. It is a month in which we re-evaluate our lives and strive to become true followers of the noble Prophet, Hazrat Muhammadsa. This month is one of blessings, hope, mercy, and forgiveness. This is a month that reminds us how important we are to Allah. Thus, our responsibility, which we should make the utmost effort to attain, is a solid connection with Allah, Who created.

(Jalees Ahmad, Al Hakam)

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7 April

This Week in History

A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

7 April 1907: An adversary of the Promised Messiahas, Munshi Ilahi Bakhsh, who was an accountant, died on this day. This unfortunate person had been among the companions of the Promised Messiahas, but his inner darkness led him to his bitter end. Munshi Ilahi Bakhsh, who was stationed at Lahore and Hoti (Mardan) during his professional career, published the mischievous book ‘Asa-e-Musa against Huzooras to mislead people and criticised Huzooras to his heart’s content. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 20)

7 April 1920: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra embarked on his tour of Sialkot, which took almost one week to complete. During this tour, Huzoorra delivered some speeches alongside many other engagements. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p. 255)

7 April 1944: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra expressed his cordial desire to hoist the Islamic flag in Spain. For this noble cause, Huzoorra invited members of the Jamaat to enhance their financial and personal sacrifices.

(Al Fazl, 6 May 1944)

7 April 1967: On this day, the 48th Majlis-e-Mushawarat took place under the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh. Prior to this event, Al Fazl published an announcement for precautions, noting that in different parts of Pakistan, contagious diseases like cerebrospinal fever and smallpox were reportedly on the rise. If anyone experienced any symptoms, they were asked to maintain social distancing, use a mask, and avoid handshakes. (Al Fazl, 7 April 1967, p. 1)

7 April 1995: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul

Masih IVrh announced the inauguration of a newly built mosque in Papua New Guinea and narrated faith-inspiring incidents related to the establishment of Ahmadiyyat in that country and the construction of the mosque. (Khutbate-Tahir, Vol. 14, p. 233)

8 April

8 April 1897: The Promised Messiah’sas prophecy about Arya Samaj’s leader, Pandit Lekhram, was fulfilled when this extremely abusive foe met his fate on 6 March 1897. Subsequently, false accusations were raised against the Promised Messiahas On this date, police investigators searched the home of Promised Messiahas in an effort to find any evidence that might implicate Huzooras in the murder of Lekhram due to the intense pressure the Arya Samajists placed on the authorities. Moments before the arrival of the police party, Huzooras was busy reading the final copies of his book, Siraj-e-Munir. The police contingent was led by Mr Limarchand, Superintendent of Police Gurdaspur, and Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, Inspector Batala. Huzooras received the officials and led them to every corner of the house. During the course of this raid, a police official badly struck his head against a door frame. Huzooras was so kind to him and offered him a glass of warm milk or anything else he wished. Even Huzoor’sas fierce foe, Mirza Imam Din, joined the police party to help them find anything they desired. On this date, this party also searched the guest house, the press room, and the residence of Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 1, pp. 599-601)

8 April 1948: On this day, during his tour of Peshawar, Pakistan,

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a lecture at the Mission College (Edwardes College), as part of a series of lectures titled “Istihkame-Pakistan” – Consolidation of Pakistan. The audience included the Deputy Commissioner, members of the assembly and other government officials. The details of this series of lectures have already been published in our article, “‘The consolidation of Pakistan’: Lectures by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra on how Pakistan can see success” (Al Hakam, 6 May 2022, Issue 216, pp. 10-13).

8 April 1988: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh inaugurated the new building of the Ahmadiyya Mosque in Glasgow, UK. (Khutbat-eTahir, Vol. 7, p. 229)

8 April 2004: On this day, during his tour of Africa, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted an audience to the then-president of Benin. (Al Fazl International, 30 July 2004)

8 April 2006: On this day, during his tour of Singapore, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted audiences to 331 Ahmadis, amila of Jamaat-e-Ahamdiyya Indonesia, and amila of Lajna Imaillah Singapore. (Al Fazl International, 15 May 2006)

9 April

9 April 1907: On this day, the Promised Messiahas was vouchsafed a prophecy from God Almighty concerning the “Calamity of Damascus” (Bala-e-Damishq). The first major manifestation of this prophecy was first recorded in the 1920s, when French troops heavily bombed Damascus.

9 April 2004: On this day, during his tour of Africa, Hazrat Khalifatul

Masih Vaa led the Fajr prayer at the Al-Tawhid Mosque in Porto-Novo, Benin, and delivered the Friday Sermon, which was telecast live on MTA.

On the same day, Huzooraa granted an audience to the then-president of Benin’s National Assembly, and press correspondents interviewed Huzooraa as well. (Al Fazl International, 30 July 2004)

9 April 2006: On this day, during his tour of Singapore, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted an audience to the missionaries and mu‘allimeen serving in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea. Huzooraa also granted audiences to the amilas of MKA Indonesia, MKA Singapore, and MKA Malaysia.

In the evening, Huzooraa graced a reception held in his honour, where members of parliament were also present. (Al Fazl International, 5 May 2006)

10 April

10 April 2004: On this day, during his tour of Africa, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the MTA Benin Studio and granted audiences to the amilas of Majlis Ansarullah and Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Benin. A reception was also held in Huzoor’saa honour, which was attended by various dignitaries from the country. (Al Fazl International, 30 July 2004)

10 April 2017: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the Aafiyat Mosque in WaldshutTiengen, Germany. A special reception, attended by 110 dignitaries and guests, was held to mark the opening of the mosque, during which Huzooraa delivered the keynote address and outlined the objectives of mosques and explained the true teachings of Islam.

11 April

11 April 2006: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in Australia for his first-ever tour of the Australian continent. Huzooraa

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressing the third International Conference of Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International (MTA)

inspected the Bait-ul-Huda Mosque, and granted an audience to a member of the federal parliament. Huzooraa also granted audiences to 170 Ahmadis as well. (Al Fazl International, 12 May 2006)

11 April 2014: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned the details of the Khutba-e-Ilhamiyyah, and shed light on its magnificence.

11 April 2017: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the Baitul Naseer Mosque in Augsburg, Germany. Later, a special reception, attended by more than 130 dignitaries and guests, was held to mark the opening of the mosque at the Kongress am Park convention centre. During his keynote address, Huzooraa explained the true purposes of mosques and highlighted the importance of fulfilling the rights of mankind in light of the teachings of Islam.

12 - 13 April

12 April 1914: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra addressed the representatives gathered at the Mubarak Mosque, Qadian, for a sitting of the Majlis-eMushawarat. Huzoor’sra wise words on this special occasion were later printed in book form titled Mansab-e-Khilafat. During this

7 - 13 April

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Next, the entire Surah discusses the events that are to take place in the Hereafter, and finally, it makes mention of the accountability for which man will have to present himself before Allah the Almighty.

At the concluding verse of the Surah, following the practice of the Holy Prophetsa, all the followers behind an imam in prayer invoke, in a relatively loud voice, ‘O Allah! make our accountability easy for us’.

89. Surah al-Fajr

This Surah was revealed in the early period of Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 31 verses.

This Surah is called al-Fajr, and ten nights have been cited as witnesses for dawn, and further two and one more have been cited as witnesses, which makes a total of thirteen. These thirteen years are a reference to the early period of Mecca, after which the dawn of migration was to break.

Numerous other explanations have also been presented for these verses, which include a dawn to break in the Latter Days. But the description of the first dawn is conclusive; therefore, its description is sufficient.

Garden which is specifically for My chosen servants.

90. Surah al-Balad

This Surah was revealed in the early period of Mecca, and, including the basmalah, it consists of 21 verses.

The nights of Mecca, which have been cited as witnesses in the preceding Surah, the mention of the same Mecca has been started again. Addressing the Holy Prophetsa, Allah the Almighty says that ‘I cite this town as a witness as long as you are in it; once they oust you from this town, it will not remain anymore a town that provides peace.’

historic gathering, Huzoorra laid the foundation of Anjuman-e-Taraqqie-Islam to propagate the message of Islam in the world. (Tarikhe-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p.141)

12 April 1920: Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra was in Sialkot and delivered an hour-long speech in the Punjabi language, particularly addressing the Lajna. This speech was later published and titled Faraiz-eMasturat. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p. 255)

12 April 1948: Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra delivered a lecture in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, as part of a series of lectures titled “Istihkame-Pakistan” – Consolidation of Pakistan. During the lecture, some opponents gathered outside the venue and raised slogans against the Jamaat. The mob tried to create disorder and thus the police had to disperse them. (“‘The consolidation of Pakistan’: Lectures by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra on how Pakistan can see success”, Al Hakam, 6 May 2022, Issue 216, p. 12).

13 April 2014: The third International Conference of Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International (MTA) concluded with an address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. 39 delegates from 20 countries attended the three-day conference, which was held at the Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden, Surrey, UK.

In the rest of the verses of this Surah, mankind has been motivated again and again that whoever will endeavour for the freedom of deprived and oppressed peoples for him is a glad tiding of a great reward. And the greatest glad tidings given in the concluding verse is that he will die in a state in which Allah the Almighty will call him to Himself by saying: O soul! Who was completely satisfied with Me, was not only well-pleased with Me but was ۃیﺿرم , i.e., I was also well-pleased with him. Now enter among My chosen servants, and enter the

Next, future generations have been cited as witnesses to the fact that man has been decreed to toil regularly. Once he is invested with the light of Prophethood, two avenues of worldly and spiritual progress are opened before him. But instead of adopting an avenue of struggle that leads to worldly and spiritual heights, they adopt the easy way of going downhill and go into decline. The subject matter of height has been elaborated here in that it is not a reference to ascending a hill. But when poor peoples are starvestricken and they are enslaved, at that time, if someone struggles to liberate them and endeavours to help the starving and low people stand on their feet, they are the ones who are to ascend heights. But this goal cannot be achieved in a couple of days. To attain this, one has to continue exercising patience and exhorting patience, and, while continuously being compassionate, they have to exhort compassion.

(Translated from the original introduction of chapters as presented in the Urdu translation of the Holy Quran by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Translated into English by Shahid Mahmood Ahmad, missionary in Ghana)

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa granting an audience to the then-president of Benin’s National Assembly

“It is a huge responsibility upon us Ahmadis that we understand the essence of fasting and try to attain its true objective during the month of Ramadan; which is to adopt taqwa [righteousness] and continuously progress in it.”

(Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Friday Sermon, 18 May 2018; Al Hakam, 15 June 2018, Issue 13, p. 8)

How Ramadan can bring us closer to an eco-friendly lifestyle Opinion

Lubna Junaid Environmental Science student, Suriname

The act of fasting in Islam is defined as abstaining from food, drinks and conjugal relations from before the break of dawn until sunset. Islam follows a lunar calendar, which means that each year Ramadan arrives roughly 11 days earlier than the previous year according to the solar calendar.

In Islam, the practice of fasting is not only a physical exercise but also a spiritual one. The ultimate aim is to attain God’s pleasure by regulating one’s life in accordance with His ordinances. In the Holy Quran, Muslims are reminded that fasting is not a new institution or burden; it is a very old institution:

“O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous.”

(Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.184)

Unless one converts to Islam at a later age, Muslims begin fasting at the age that is healthy for them – often, this is the age of puberty. Patience is the first test, as Muslims consciously choose to deprive themselves of food. With the blessed month of Ramadan comes a compelling shift towards equality and social compassion.

On the first day, we learn (again) what it feels like to be hungry, but as the days go by, we acquire what it really means to live without food. A little self-deprivation inspires great compassion for the truly hungry people of the world. The social barrier between the rich and the poor disintegrates when the rich endure and feel hunger pains no different from their poorer neighbours. Fasting also teaches moral discipline. The striving for blessings available to us in Ramadan comes from the sincere desire to please our Creator. During the month, with greater intensity, Muslims focus on prayers, reciting and studying the Holy Quran, serving humanity and remembering Allah.

As Muslims around the world fast during Ramadan, many will be doing so in conditions made increasingly harsh by climate change. Across Asia, Africa and the Middle East, millions are performing their fasts despite displacement from extreme weather, water shortages caused by drought and heat waves, and food prices inflated by crop failures. Five of the 10 countries hit hardest by the climate crisis, according to data and rankings from the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (“ND-GAIN Country Index”, https://gain. nd.edu) and Germanwatch’s Climate Risk Index, have large Muslim populations: Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Niger, Somalia and Sudan. Though the challenges vary according to each country’s geography, many of those hit hardest are in the remote, rural communities of developing countries, where governments have limited

resources to tackle the rapid changes. (“10 Of The Countries Most Affected By Climate Change”, www.concernusa.org)

Ramadan offers us a great chance to make a positive change in our attitude towards the environment. Thus, we must seize the opportunity to change our lifestyle to one that is more environmentally friendly. This is particularly important as we learn more about the effects of climate change, dwindling resources and decreasing access to fresh water around the world, which is also a growing concern in many Muslim communities and countries. The responsible attitude of a Muslim during Ramadan is very crucial for the correctness

$940 billion each year. Up to 10% of global greenhouse gases come from food that is produced, but not eaten. (“UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021”, www.unep.org)

Muslims are advised to avoid waste, as it suggests a lifestyle of excess and complacency. Planning meals and cooking only as much as is needed is a great way to avoid wasting food. Leftovers can also be efficiently stored in the fridge and used the next day, rather than starting from scratch every evening. Also, keep a close eye on expiry dates to make sure you are using up food before the time has run out. It is also worth finding your nearest food bank to donate any unwanted supplies you may

centre. Be aware of energy consumption, and make efforts to live eco-friendly by dimming the lights and fans when leaving the hall or building.

5. Declutter your living space. During a time when we are cleansing our minds and body, it makes sense to do the same with our homes. In the same way that food waste is excessive, it’s likely that we have material possessions we no longer make beneficial use of and could be put to better use. Ramadan is a month of munificent charity. The Holy Prophetsa was the most generous of men, and he was at his most bountiful during Ramadan (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-manaqaib, Hadith 3554) Following the noble example of Prophet Muhammadsa, we should focus on giving and donating as much as we can.

According to research by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), faith-based organisations can have an immense impact on sustainable development. The director of the UNEP Faith for Earth Initiative, adds that the diversity of faiths, all united in one moral responsibility, can play an enormous role in achieving behavioural change in our production and consumption patterns. There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as defined by the UN, including clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities, zero hunger and quality education. The report also lists examples of how faith-based organisations are helping to achieve these goals. (“Religion plays an ‘enormous’ role in reversing climate change, says UN”, www.euronews.com)

and acceptance of their fast. This is a time for us to be more aware of the universal principles of mercy, compassion and respect for the Earth that our faith teaches. Allah has called us to protect, cherish, care for, and respect the Earth and all of God’s creations within it. This theme was also echoed in the life of our Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

Basic tips we can follow, especially during Ramadan

1. Plan food intake with proper nutrition, while supporting and utilising local produce and striving to incorporate sustainable practices into daily routines. We should try to follow the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa advice that Muslims should only fill onethird of their stomachs with food, with one-third reserved for liquid and the final one-third for air (to enable easy breathing), minimising the amount we consume.

have left.

2. Generate less quantity of waste, while also emphasising reusing and recycling. Minimise or eliminate the use of singleuse plastics. Eliminate disposable plates, cutlery, cups, containers etc. If needed, use degradable paper plates and cups for serving food and drinks.

3. Reduce water usage, especially during daily use, e.g. showering, brushing your teeth or during wudu (ablution). Be vigilant that the tap is closed when water is not being used, making conscious efforts to eliminate any dripping and to conserve precious water, which is a recurring theme within Islamic teachings.

(Sunan

Ibn Majah, Kitab al-at‘imah, Hadith 3349)

Food waste is a colossal problem all over the world. According to the Food Waste Index Report 2021, published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted – around 1.3 billion tonnes of food – costing the global economy close to

It is narrated that the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa once saw a man performing ablution, and he said: “Do not be extravagant, do not be extravagant [in using water].’” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitab altaharah wa sunanuha, Hadith 424) Though Islam teaches the importance of cleanliness, we are also reminded that we should not exceed bounds or wastewater. We are taught to use sufficient amounts and no more.

4. Switch off appliances after use, e.g. lights, ACs, fans, heaters, etc. This should be a habitual practice for us, not just in our own homes, but also at the mosque or Jamaat

According to the report, 16 congregations of Dominican Sisters across the United States have provided $46 million in seed capital for an investment fund that focuses on providing access to clean energy in India and sub-Saharan Africa. The project highlights the power and wealth of religions and their contribution to financing sustainable development. Another example hails from Peru, where A Rocha Peru, a Christian faith organisation, has planted 26,000 Huarango trees over three years. These trees are well adapted to surviving the arid climate of southeastern Peru and are important for traditional agriculture to thrive on the Peruvian coast. Various Sikh communities around the world have planted 1 million trees in 1,820 different locations. The project is driven by a group called Ecosikh, whose goal is to increase reforestation and encourage people to reconnect with nature. (“Faith-based organizations can help drive sustainable development, says new report”, www.unep. org)

An example from our own community is the wonderful pledge by Lajna Imaillah UK to plant 100,000 trees across the UK

Pioneer Missionaries

Part VIII

Awwab Saad Hayat Al

Hakam

Forever in service Maulvi Muhammaduddin

A series looking at pioneer missionaries and devotees of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat who gave precedence to faith over the world.

Introduction

Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib, who had attained the rank of a martyr, spent a large part of five years performing various preaching duties in several countries, including Italy, Albania, and Egypt. After completing his extensive journey, he returned to Qadian on 14 March 1941.

In November 1942, the following year, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra directed Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib to depart for Nigeria. He boarded the ship named Talaawah from Mumbai, which was torpedoed during the voyage due to the ongoing World War II. This incident ultimately led to his martyrdom.

The following month, on 27 December 1944, during the Jalsa Salana, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra expressed his contentment with Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib’s preaching endeavours he performed in Europe.

Tribute by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra

Alluding to Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib, Huzoorra explained that although he was not familiar with English and lacked prior experience, he set an excellent example during his time preaching in

<< Continued from previous page

to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of our auxiliary organisation. (“Lajna Ima’illah: Sustainability and Justice”, https:// voiceofbritishmuslimwomen.co.uk) This initiative symbolises growth and care for future generations, which is integral to our principles.

Let us as Muslims, especially Ahmadi Muslims, lead by example and create a better and healthier environment for us and the generations to follow.

Ramadan presents the perfect opportunity to recharge our spiritual batteries for the year. It is a time to seek forgiveness for our misgivings and to reflect upon the signs of creation from Allah. As Muslims, we have a duty as stewards over this planet, and it is our responsibility to ensure that natural resources are used in a sustainable manner. Now is the time for us to encourage ourselves, and those around us, to be the best possible stewards of the earth and to live as individuals who are compassionate and respectful toward the diverse and beautiful aspects of God’s creation.

Europe, which is truly astonishing. Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib initially went to Albania, a country in the Balkans, to preach Islam Ahmadiyyat, and as a result, many people embraced Islam; however, opponents of the Jamaat filed complaints with the government, accusing him of corrupting the religion of Islam. Despite the fact that the government of Albania was Muslim, the Muslims there protested, and eventually, King Zog ordered Maulvi Sahib to be expelled from the country.

He was then made to leave the country escorted by the police, who caught him and left him at the border. After being expelled, he first began preaching in Greece and then moved on to Yugoslavia upon the instruction he received from Huzoorra via a letter. The border of Albania meets Yugoslavia.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra mentioned that he wrote to Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib and encouraged him to continue preaching. Through his efforts, some people even accepted Ahmadiyyat, including leaders of Muslims who were also representatives of Muslims in parliament. Subsequently, the government of Yugoslavia was alerted by the government of Albania, who then expelled Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib from the country. After that, he went to Italy, then Egypt, and finally returned to India. Later, when he was sent to West Africa, during his travels, the ship sank on the way there (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 8, p. 358).

Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib’s father was Hazrat Doctor Muhammad Ibrahimra, a companion of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the Promised Messiah. Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was the middle son of his father and was fortunate enough to do waqf in 1936. Initially, his waqf was for three years.

Tribute by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh

Mentioning his incident of martyrdom, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh said: While Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was travelling on a ship, it was targeted by a torpedo. As a result, he and the other passengers on the ship drowned. Therefore, Huzoorrh added, there was a person on that ship who sacrificed his life for the sake of God in the path of God, and

his name shall always be written among the martyrs. As a result of this sacrifice, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib received the martyrdom of drowning, and since his journey was undertaken in the way of Allah, he attained the reward of double

obtain the Maulvi Fazil degree. In 1936, he dedicated himself to preaching and was sent to the Balkan states of Albania for three years to preach Islam Ahmadiyyat in Europe.

There, his brother writes, Maulvi Sahib

martyrdom by giving his life in His cause. (Friday Sermon, 21 May 1999; Khutbat-eTahir Babat Shuhada, pp. 83-84) Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib left behind his son, Jamal al-Din Sahib, who was born a few weeks after the martyrdom of his father.

Additional information about Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib can be found in the June 1963 issue of Al Furqan, on pages 10-11; in that same issue, a photo of him is also published, in which he is dressed in Arab attire. Furthermore, on page 9 of the same issue is a poem paying tribute to him, authored by Hazrat Qazi Muhammad Zahooruddin Akmalra

An account by Maulvi Sahib’s brother

Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was the maternal uncle of Abul Ata Sahib, the editor of Al Furqan. His brother, Malik Muhammad Mustaqim Sahib Advocate, wrote that Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was the son of Hazrat Doctor Muhammad Ibrahimra of Sarrowa, District Hoshiarpur, who was a companion of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, and his younger brother. On the initiative of his nephew, Maulana Abul Ata Sahib, he was admitted to the Madrasa-e-Ahmadiyya Qadian for religious education, where he went on to

stayed at a hotel in Tirana, the capital of Albania, and started preaching Islam. It was during the time of Shah Ahmet Zogu, whose ancestors were Muslims; however, the Shah himself had been heavily influenced by Western civilization. In a period of about six to seven months, the so-called Muslim scholars of the country considered Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib a danger and complained to the government, leading to his expulsion within twenty-four hours. Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib then went to Belgrade, the capital of Yugoslavia, where he succeeded in introducing Ahmadiyya to a respectable family. Due to the influence of this family, it became easier for him to preach. He had two books of the Promised Messiahas translated into the local language and started selling them. Through individual meetings, he introduced Islam Ahmadiyya to various other people of different classes.

Gradually, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib’s preaching efforts went beyond the city limits of Belgrade, and he planned to leave the city. He requested permission from the government; however, during this time, the papers for his expulsion from Albania were received. The Yugoslavian police removed him from their borders

Members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Cairo, Egypt, with Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir

Al Hakam

Exactly 89 years ago, on 7 April 1934, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra departed from Qadian for his first-ever visit to Lyallpur (now Faisalabad), British India. (Al Fazl, 8 April 1934, p. 1)

Warm welcome at the Lyallpur railway station

Huzoorra reached the Lyallpur railway station at 1:15 pm, where Ahmadis were present in huge numbers to welcome their beloved Imam. The people present there also included various non-Ahmadi Muslims, Hindus, Parsis, and Sikhs from all walks of life, such as government officials, lawyers, barristers, municipal commissioners, and local dignitaries. (Al Fazl, 12 April 1934, pp. 1-2)

When Huzoorra disembarked from the train, he was welcomed with rose petals and garlands. People were lined-up in two rows outside the station, and Ahmadi volunteers were taking care of the discipline. The police were also managing the situation very well. The superintendent of police was also present there. (Ibid.)

Huzoor’sra address to Ahmadis

On the same day, Huzoorra delivered a short speech. At the beginning of his speech, mentioning the reason behind his visit to Lyallpur, Huzoorra said that Lyallpur was one of those areas where new settlements or colonies were being established under British rule – known as the “Punjab Canal Colonies” – and from this perspective, it was like a “new world.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra went on to say:

“The Promised Messiahas had also seen a kashf [divine vision], which indicates that he came to create a ‘new world’. Therefore, I deemed it important to visit the place where a ‘new world’ is developing, in order to fulfil one aspect of that kashf in which the Promised Messiahas saw that he had created a new heaven and a new earth. [Tadhkirah [English], pp. 248-250]

“The true meaning of this [kashf] is that a new spirit will be created in the whole world through him [the Promised Messiahas]. However, a partial meaning implies the propagation of Faith among the people of the ‘new world’ which is being established [in various places, such as Lyallpur]. Therefore, I decided to visit here in light of such desires in my mind that Allah the Almighty may strengthen Ahmadiyyat in this area, so that along with the earthly

population, a spiritual population may also establish here.” (Al Fazl, 15 April 1934, p. 5)

The significance of Lyallpur towards which Huzoorra indicated is that after the annexation of Punjab in 1849, the British formulated a plan of Canal Colonisation in Punjab, and established nine canal colonies from 1885 to 1940, known as the “Punjab Canal Colonies.” Chenab Colony was the largest one, and covered the whole of Lyallpur district, along with some parts of the Jhang, Gujranwala and Lahore districts.

These colonies were situated in the interfluvial tracts, or doabs, west of the BeasSutlej and east of the Jhelum Rivers. Each project was based upon a major canal, and its network of branches and distributaries, the construction of which preceded a later process of migration and colonisation. Canal construction took place primarily in tracts that were hitherto uncultivated, and were but sparsely inhabited by a seminomadic population of cattle graziers and camel-owners. (The Punjab Canal Colonies, 1885-1940, Imran Ali, 1979, The Australian National University, Canberra)

During his speech, Huzoorra also expressed that though he had not been feeling well for the last few days, he did not cancel his visit to Lyallpur, since he thought of the hundreds of people who had come there from very far places to meet their

Imam.

Local jalsa of Jamaat Lyallpur

On 7 and 8 April, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Lyallpur held its local jalsa

On the first day of the jalsa, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra led the Maghrib and Isha prayers at the jalsa gah, and granted everyone an opportunity to shake hands with him. (Al Fazl, 12 April 1934, p. 2)

On the second day, Huzoorra led the Zuhr and Asr prayers at the jalsa gah and then delivered a speech, in which he spoke about the seeking of Truth, and shed light on the death of Jesusas and the Promised Messiah’sas truthfulness. In addition to the Ahmadis, the audience included people of various other faiths belonging to various walks of life. (Ibid.)

Huzoorra said:

“Respected brothers, Allah the Almighty has created mankind to fulfil very great objectives. However, despite the fact that mankind has been created with extraordinary wisdom to fulfil such great objectives, the very thought of which fills one’s heart with fear, they incline towards such petty and less-important objectives that this act of theirs stuns any wise person upon witnessing their situation.

“In regards to a certain objective behind

the creation of mankind, all religions of the world – regardless of which country they belong to or which revealed book they believe in – agree to the fact that the creation of mankind has occurred to create a connection with God and to attain His nearness. Moreover, there is no disagreement on this point among various religions. You may ask the scholars of the Hindu faith, and they will tell you that the purpose behind the creation of mankind is for them to immerse themselves in [the love of] their Creator. You may ask the Jews, and they would also tell you that the sole purpose behind mankind’s creation is for them to attain the nearness of God. The Muslims also hold the belief that the one who does not desire to seek Allah the Almighty, is [spiritually] blind and commits a sin. The Christians also claim that the one who inclines towards God is granted His nearness. The Sikhs, Zoroastrians, etc. also say that the true purpose behind the creation of mankind is for their hearts to become the abode of God.

“Now ponder over the greatness of this objective, and then look upon the situation of mankind; one finds that [...] generally, people do not make efforts to fulfil the purpose for which God has created them. It is a fact that one cannot reach their desired destination until one follows the pathway

‘Our sole objective is to foster a connection between God and His servants’

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s first-ever visit to Lyallpur, 1934

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivering a speech

that could lead them there. Therefore, the true need toward which we should pay attention is for us to bring seriousness to our hearts in regards to seeking God Almighty. If this is not the case, then there can be no benefit in claiming to be a Muslim. [...] The followers of all religions agree to the fact that one cannot achieve [the objective] by merely adopting a title [such as Muslim, Hindu, Christian, Jew, etc.]. In fact, to achieve this, one is required to inculcate the fear of God in their heart. If they achieve this [fear of Allah], then it is impossible for them to go astray, regardless of how many shortcomings they might have, Allah the Almighty’s love will surely attract them [toward the right path]. [...] In short, if one understands the objective for which they have been created, they can never indulge in any mockery or ridicule towards the religion. In this way, their hearts remain filled with the fear of Allah, and they understand that [...] they are required to make a strong connection with God.” (Al Fazl, 17 April 1934, pp. 5-6)

Addressing the opponents of Ahmadiyyat, Huzoorra further said:

“O servants of God, Allah the Almighty has created you for a great objective, thus, you should shun those acts that repel you from this very objective, and instil the love, longing, and fear of God in your hearts since these are the only means that could lead you to God, and they can impact other people’s hearts as well. [...] The truth always finds its way [to success], and the falsehood can never stand and can never become victorious, regardless of how great efforts are made to strengthen it.” (Ibid., p. 6)

Huzoorra added:

“The aim of those who devote themselves wholly to God is to bring people towards Allah the Almighty with love, instead of repelling them through hate. Therefore, if one is truthful in their claim to have found the Truth, their utmost effort will be to bring people towards God, instead of repelling them away.” (Ibid.)

Huzoorra then mentioned the fact that all prophets and ma’murin [appointees] of God are opposed, and while mentioning the opposition faced by the Holy Prophetsa, Huzoorra narrated the incident of Tai’f, where the opponents threw stones at the Holy Prophetsa, which caused him severe injuries.

Huzoorra then mentioned the opposition faced by the Promised Messiahas and his Jamaat and narrated the incident of the martyrdom of Hazrat Sahibzada Abdul

Latifra

Huzoorra continued by mentioning an incident that took place during his journey to Mecca for Hajj in 1912. During the journey, a barrister from Lyallpur initiated religious discussion and upon finding out that Huzoorra is an Ahmadi, he prolonged the discussion and, in some instances, used harsh words against the Promised Messiahas, but Huzoorra responded with calm. However, when he found out that Huzoorra is the son of the Promised Messiahas, he came to him very frightened and apologised. Huzoorra responded to him by saying, “There is no need to worry. I wanted you to express whatever your objections are.”

Huzoorra continued:

“Our sole objective is to foster a connection between God and His servants. In this, we have no hidden vested interests. [...] If anyone can prove to us that it is impossible for one to seek God Almighty through the Promised Messiahas, but rather through their teachings instead, we will be ready to follow them as servants.” (Ibid., p. 7)

Since a tea party was scheduled to be held in Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra honour, Huzoorra delivered his speech in two parts, one before the tea party, and the second part began at 9pm after the tea party. The total duration of the speech was more than four hours.

Tea Party

The tea party was arranged by Jamaate-Ahmadiyya in Huzoor’sra honour, at the Dist. Engineer’s Bungalow. It was attended by various local dignitaries and government officials as well, including the Superintendent of Police. At the end of this reception, Huzoorra delivered a short speech, in which he outlined the pathway to achieve inter-faith harmony and unity. (Al Fazl, 12 April 1934, p. 2)

The opposition

The opponents of the Jamaat had left no stone unturned to halt the above-mentioned jalsa, however, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, the event was a great success and was attended by no less than 6,000 people from all walks of life and faiths. Following the announcement about the holding of this jalsa, the opponents published hateful edicts and tried to stop people from attending the jalsa. Hurdles were created in Jamaat’s obtaining the site for the jalsa,

the caterers who were to provide tents, etc., were threatened that in case they provided the items for the jalsa, the items would be burned. A day before the jalsa, an attempt was made to redirect the water from a nearby canal towards the jalsa gah. However, the alertness of Ahmadis foiled their plan. Despite all this, various non-Ahmadis attended the event, and the president and members of the local municipality cooperated with the Community in holding this event. The local police were also very cooperative in this regard. Particularly the Sikh community gave a great helping hand during all these times. On the occasion of this jalsa, around 150 people took bai’at as well. (Ibid.)

The Civil and Military Gazette reported:

<< Continued from page 7 within 24 hours and took him to Albania, where he was left at the Greek border. A ship was departing from a Greek port for Italy, and to board the ship, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib sold all his clothes and some other items to buy a ticket. In this way, he reached Rome.

Maulvi Muhammad Sharif Sahib, the preacher there at the time, welcomed Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib and informed Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra via letter about the circumstances.

“AHMADIYAS AT LYALLPUR

“LYALLPUR, April 9.

“For the first time in the history of Lyallpur, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Bashirud-Din Mahmood Ahmad, Head of the Ahmadiya Community visited Lyallpur and today delivered a message to a huge gathering of his followers. In the evening he was entertained at a garden party in the Dist. Engineer’s Bungalow.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 10 April 1934, p. 13)

A short stay in Jaranwala

Huzoorra departed from Lyallpur at around 8 am on 9 April. Upon the request of a member of Jaranwala Jamaat, Dr Muhammad Shafi Sahib, Huzoorra stopped at his house in Jaranwala on the way back to Qadian, and had breakfast there. (Al Fazl, 17 April 1934, p. 7)

A short stay in Ahmadpur

Huzoorra departed from Jaranwala and made another stop in the village of Ahmadpur, at the house of Malik Ghulam Muhammad Sahib, where the local Ahmadis had the opportunity to meet Huzoorra and some ladies took bai’at as well. Huzoorra also delivered a speech in Punjabi. During his speech, Huzoorra called the members’ attention to the purpose of their creation, i.e., to attain the love and nearness of Allah the Almighty. Huzoorra said that everyone is required to pay attention to this objective, and these are the true meanings of Faith. To achieve this purpose, it is not essential for one to be well educated, since Allah the Almighty has nullified this excuse by sending down the Perfect Religion – Islam – through the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, who was unlettered himself. Thus, being uneducated is not a hurdle in one’s learning the Faith. One should learn the meanings of Surah al-Fatihah and offer salat with great humbleness and attention. Moreover, one should pay attention to prayer [dua]. In the end, Huzoorra reminded the attendees about remembering the objective behind their

Continued on page 15 >>

Meanwhile, during that time, Italy suggested sending some Muslims to Hijaz for Hajj. Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was also blessed enough to be included and managed to enter the Holy Land long before the days of Hajj through Cairo, Egypt. He stayed in Mecca and spent the month of Ramadan there. After performing Hajj, he settled near Haram. However, two or three months later, someone reported to the government that Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was an Ahmadi and preaching Islam Ahmadiyyat. As a result, the police arrested and imprisoned him. With the mediation of the Indian Council, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was eventually released and sent back to India.

During his 3 to 4 years of travel, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib’s diet consisted of only a few morsels due to the poverty of the countries he travelled through. It had been a long time since he had eaten any spicy foods. Upon returning home, he ate everything with great gratitude. Gradually, his hunger returned, and he started eating the healthy amount of food required for his body to function properly.

His brother further writes that in the city of Ambala, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib married Babu Abdul Ghani Sahib’s daughter, with whom he had a son named Jamal al-Din. In 1942, during the days of the war, Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib was again sent to Africa via Bombay. He was travelling on a ship called Tallawah when it was suddenly sunk by a torpedo on the night of 22 December 1942.

Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib lived his life in a simple and nomadic style, as he had had a great fondness for travelling since childhood. He studied medicine himself in connection with his father’s medical profession and gained fame as a physician after successfully treating an epileptic patient with honey in Europe. This increased his reputation and made preaching easier for him. (Al Furqan, June 1963, pp. 10-11)

A quote by Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra

When one even attempts to fathom the sacrifices our pioneer missionaries made, one is startled as to how they managed to attain so much with the few they had. Indeed, it is as Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said:

“An honest introspection would reveal that we are incapable of achieving the things our community has succeeded in so far. How then are they being accomplished? We are incapable of realising these tasks and yet somehow our endeavours are always fulfilled. The only answer to this is that God Almighty carries them out Himself.” (A Mighty Sign from God, p. 8)

Faisalabad

‘A curious proposition’ Religious challenge goes viral in 1899

Aizaz Khan Canada

In the digital age, it is common to witness ideas, stories, and videos that rapidly spread online and become widely popular, often referred to as “going viral.” Books have been written on this subject, marketing agents establish their careers around this concept, and unlimited resources are available that promise to teach people how their next big idea can catch on. But have you ever wondered how things went viral before the digital age, when even the concept of the internet was unfathomable? The internet itself became mainstream in the 1990s. The following story of “a curious proposition”, which gained worldwide publicity purely with the help of Allah, predates all these means by nearly a hundred years.

In 1899, under divine inspiration, the Promised Messiahas published an announcement urging the British government to organise a religious conference to determine, once and for all, the one true religion. Perhaps this request would have been viewed as insignificant and trivial, were it not for the stakes wagered by the one who announced it.

The Promised Messiahas proposed that a representative from each religion should:

(i) expound upon the beauties of their faith by presenting teachings that are superior to other religions and that can irrigate all branches of the human tree, i.e., they have the ability to nourish and provide sustenance to all aspects of human life;

(ii) prove that the same spirituality and power exist in their religion as was claimed at the very beginning. For the second condition to be doubtlessly visible to the masses, the representatives should make a prophecy under Divine direction that should be fulfilled within one year of its pronouncement. Then, he stated something that would shock and astound the world – if a sign was not shown by him in favour of the truthfulness of Islam, he would willingly submit himself to the crucifixion and have his bones broken. (Tiryaq-ul-Quloob, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 15, pp. 487-500)

Such a bold submission could only have been made by one who had complete certainty in his faith and reliance on the support of God.

The publication of this simple yet profound proposition that sought to demonstrate the truth of Islam over all other religions would be blessed by the Divine spirit that initially inspired it. News of this religious challenge went viral and it was published in over one hundred newspapers across the UK, USA and Canada, potentially reaching millions of readers across the globe.

In his concluding address at the MTA International Conference in 2021, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih Vaa stated that “Indeed, history bears witness to the fact that the message of the Promised Messiahas reached the United States, Europe and the United Kingdom during his life through an array of media coverage. For example, the open challenges he made to the opponents of Islam were reported upon by famous newspapers in the West. It is not necessary to mention the details of those incidents at this time, but suffice it to say that it is clear that the Promised Messiahas frequently utilised the print media for the sake of serving Islam and in the cause of imparting its noble teachings to a vast audience.” (Concluding address at MTA International Conference, 27 June 2021, YouTube, uploaded by Alislam, 27 June 2021, www.youtube.com/ watch?v=QCfNYBWYV5E)

Although this incredible challenge by the Promised Messiahas gained the momentum that it did, a religious conference of this nature was never organised and not a single soul would accept the challenge to defend their faith and become a contender against Islam. Maulana Dost Muhammad Shahid, the historian of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamat, states that the world was forever deprived of this golden opportunity to identify the true religion. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 2, pp. 61-62)

Nevertheless, the fact that this challenge was published in more than a hundred newspapers in 1899 and was read by potentially millions of people – without a single contender – stands as a testament to the truth of the Promised Messiahas and to his unwavering faith that Islam is the only true, living religion.

Facts and Figures

Presented below are some facts about the publication of this novel challenge and its widespread circulation:

• It was printed in at least 103 newspapers across the UK, USA, and Canada

• According to the 103 newspapers that have been retrieved thus far, it was published from 2 December 1899 to 1 June 1900

• It appears to have been first published in The Saturday Review (London, UK) on 2 December 1899

• It was published in some of the most popular mainstream newspapers at the time, i.e., The New York Times, New York Journal, Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times, The Evening Star (now known as Toronto Star), The Gazette (now known as Montreal Gazette) and The Evening Citizen (now known as Ottawa Citizen), to name a few

• Its publication in Canada currently

serves as the earliest known mention of the Promised Messiahas in Canadian newspapers

• Among Canadian newspapers, it was published in the following:

o The Evening Star (Toronto Star), Toronto, Ontario

o The Evening Citizen (Ottawa Citizen), Ottawa, Ontario

o The Gazette (Montreal Gazette), Montreal, Quebec

o Free Press Home Journal, Winnipeg, Manitoba

o Vancouver Daily World, Vancouver, British Columbia

o The Weekly News-Advertiser, Vancouver, British Columbia

o Daily News Advertiser, Vancouver, British Columbia

o The Daily British Whig, Kingston, Ontario

o The Weekly British Whig, Kingston, Ontario

o The Halifax Herald, Halifax, Nova Scotia

o The Evening Mail, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Complete List of Newspapers

Below is a list of the 103 newspapers that have been retrieved thus far, in which this challenge was published.

100 Years Ago...

Malkana Rajput Apostasy Movement

The Review of Religions [English], April 1923

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra MA (18931963)

Introduction

Among the burning questions of the day in India is that of the Apostasy Movement among the Malkana Rajputs of the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. The movement originally began in the districts of Agra, Muttra and Bharatpur but is now spreading to other parts of the country as well. The Malkana Rajputs were converted to Islam mostly at the beginning of Mughal rule in India through the pious influence of Muslim saints, but after their conversion, they were badly neglected by the Musalman [Muslim] community and no arrangements were made for their education and training in Islam. The Mughal rulers also seem to have sadly neglected their duty, which they owed to these new converts. They were mostly left to their own fate, surrounded by the vastly predominating Hindu population of the countryside. The result was that only the name of Islam and certain Islamic practices remained, while the routine of their lives remained or gradually became essentially Hindu. These people have up to this day remained entirely cut off from the outside Musalman element of the country and the only people they have ever come across and have had to interact with were their Hindu kinsfolk of the neighbourhood, and it is a matter of wonder how these ill-fated people have been able to retain the name of Islam and certain Islamic practices. It is certainly not due to any effort on their part but is almost entirely the result of the fact that the Hindus have never thought before this of re-admitting them into their kinship. As a matter of fact, it is an essential rule in the orthodox Hindu society that a Hindu who once renounces Hinduism and becomes converted to any other faith, nay, one who openly practises some non-Hindu practice, e.g., eating cow flesh, breaking the laws of the caste system, taking food from the hands of a non-Hindu, etc., immediately becomes an outcaste and can never after this gain admission into the Hindu society. So, these Rajputs were saved from an earlier apostasy. Recently, however, the newly established community of Hindus known as the Arya Samaj has renounced the old idea and begun the work of propagation in good earnest. It is through the efforts of this community that the work of the reconversion of the Rajputs has been taken in hand by the Hindus and though the old-fashioned Hindus still look askance at the movement and are not prepared to take back these apostates, the educated Hindu community generally, whether Arya Samajists or others, actively supports the movement and is doing their best to make it a success.

Malkana Rajputs

The Malkana Rajputs, who it seems were given the name of Malkana by the Musalman kings in place of their old Hindu name of Thakur, are found in many districts of the UP [i.e, United Provinces, now Uttar Pradesh] such as Agra, Muttra, Aligarh, Mainpuri, Etah, Farrukhabad, Etawah, etc., and are also found widely scattered in the Native States of Rajputana such as Bharatpur, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur,

the reading or writing of Urdu. In some of their villages, mosques are quite unknown and wherever there are mosques, they are in a hopelessly deplorable condition, being mostly in ruins and the haunt of stray village animals. I doubt whether one among a thousand can verbally repeat the Islamic kalima [creed]. If questioned as to who they are and to what community they belong, they would never say that they are Musalman, but would invariably call themselves Malkana or Mian Thakur.

interest, and as there is no Land Alienation Act in the UP as there is in the Punjab, the larger portion of their lands has passed into the hands of the Hindus. In many of the Malkana villages, not a rod of land belongs to the Malkanas, who formerly owned the whole villages in proprietorship. Thus, most of them are not better off than mere tenants-at-will under Hindu landlords who are never friendly. Such circumstances have created in the minds of the Malkana people the idea that their Hindu kinsmen are enjoying a better social position and are more honoured than they are, and this difference has made them dissatisfied with their present lot and situated as they are, they naturally jump to the conclusion that they can better their condition only by joining hands with their Hindu kinsmen.

Arya preachers

The Arya preachers have been working among them for the last fifteen years, but partly owing to the strict secrecy maintained by the Arya workers and partly to the isolated condition of the Malkanas, the Musalmans have come to know of this state of affairs only very recently.

Gawalior, etc., but they are particularly known as Malkana mostly in Agra, Muttra and Bharatpur and these three places it will be remembered are the centres of the Rajput Apostasy Movement. The Malkana Rajputs ordinarily retain only three Islamic practices, i.e., they practise circumcision, bury their dead and are married according to Islamic law. Their names are a strange mixture of Islamic and Hindu types. Three sons of the same father will generally be found with such names as Murad Khan, Kishan Lal and Bhuri Singh, while all will profess to be Musalmans. Many of them keep ‘choties’ or pigtails on their heads and almost all practise ‘chhoot’, i.e., abstaining from eating and drinking from the hands of a non-Malkana Muslim. It looks strange to see them freely eating and drinking from the hands of Hindus but flatly refusing to take anything prepared by Musalmans except their own kinsmen. The Malkanas also retain the old Hindu caste system and believe in some of the ancient Hindu saints, such as Rama and Krishna. Some of them even practise idol worship. The very few who are educated among them can read and write Hindi, the language of the Hindus, but only very rarely know

To them, the word “Musalman” generally means only non-Rajput Musalman.

Estimated numbers

Such is the condition of the people whom the Hindus are nowadays converting to Hinduism. It is difficult to estimate exactly the number of these people in the affected area, but in the three districts of Agra, Muttra and Bharatpur, an estimate of between twenty and twenty-five thousand souls would not be much beside the mark; and if the whole province of the UP and that of Rajputana are taken into consideration, the number of Musalman Rajputs would probably be much more than a million. Then there are hordes of Musalman Rajputs in the Punjab but the condition of the Punjabi Rajputs is much better and there is very little danger of the apostasy movement finding a way into their ranks.

Financial state

The financial condition of the Malkanas is pitiable. Most of them are badly involved in debt and owe enormous sums to Hindu moneylenders who charge exorbitant

The Aryas first began their work of conversion among the Malkanas in the village of Raibha in the Agra District. Raibha is a fairly large village, of which the predominating portion consisted of Hindu Rajputs, the Malkanas being only a few hundred, who were all converted. Then followed Ikran and its suburbs, Pipra and Bilothi, in quick succession. These villages, though not far off from Raibha, are in the Bharatpur State and contain a population of about 2,000 souls, a portion of whom are Gujars who have also been converted. This great and possibly unexpected success turned the heads of the Aryas, who trumpeted this news from the press and the pulpit and thereby ruined their own cause. Musalmans, slow and careless though they are, could not bear this national disgrace, and so, more from political and national causes than from religious motives, different Islamic bodies made hasty preparations to combat the movement. The later history of the struggle presents the scene of the most unprecedented bloodless religious warfare ever fought on Indian soil.

Muslim preachers

The different Muslim Anjumans who have sent and are maintaining preachers in the affected area are the following:

Name of Body Number of Workers

Anjuman Hidiatul Islam, Delhi About 10 Badayunies of Badayun, UP About 3

Anjuman Dawat-o-Tabligh, Lahore About 10

Anjuman Ahl-i-Hadith, Amritsar Probably 20 Jamiatul Ulema, Delhi About 15

Raza-i-Mustafa, Bareilly, UP About 10 Deobandies of Deoband, Saharanpur About 50 Shias, not known, probably not more than About 5

Anjuman Ahmadiyya Ishatul Islam, Lahore About

Ahmadiyya Community, Qadian About

Need for a united front

10

90

It will be noted that the Punjabi element greatly predominates while Bombay, Madras, Behar and Bengal are absolutely unrepresented, as are also the Native Musalman States of India. Among the Hindu workers, the Arya element of course predominates, but Sanatan Dharm Sabhas have made no mean contribution. The means adopted by the Hindu preachers in their work of conversion are manifold, the most important being; (1) pressure of kinship and a strong sentimental appeal to the Malkanas to elevate their status by joining their Hindu brethren; and (2) financial help freely and lavishly given. As a result of these efforts, a strong current has been set in motion in favour of “Shuddhi” and even firm Malkanas sometimes find the land slipping from under their feet; and but for the arrival of so many Musalman preachers on the scene, the whole or almost whole of the Malkana Community would have been led astray. It cannot be said that the Shuddhi Movement has ceased or even that it has considerably weakened, but certainly it has received a setback, and the presence of our preachers is distinctly exercising wholesome influence. There have also been a large number of reconversions to Islam and it is not without grounds to hope that, with persistent efforts along the right lines, most of the misguided Malkanas would come back to the fold of Islam. What is so badly needed in the Musalman camp, however, is a united front. Differences in the camp mean certain failure and defeat. But it is a pity that differences in the Islamic camp not only exist but tend to increase and intensify. Differences in the doctrines and practices of the preachers must of course exist, because every honest worker will act and believe according to his own conscience, and so long as his attitude is sympathetic and cooperative, it is unjust and unwise to expect him to be otherwise. However, a lack of sympathy and cooperation and a show of active hostility towards one another means a house divided against itself, and such a house cannot hold its own against the besieging enemy. It is high time that the Musalmans should open their eyes and see that the present is not the time to decide to what Islamic sect the Malkanas belong or should belong. The question rather is whether they should remain Musalmans or be converted to Hinduism, whether they should remain the servants and followers of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings be on him, or join those who abuse him and believe him to be an impostor (God forbid). If Shias work among the Malkanas and save them from apostasy by making them Shias, or if through the preaching of the Ahl-i-Hadith the Malkanas become Ahl-i-Hadith and thereby abstain from becoming Hindus, or if the influence of the Ahmadis wins them over to Ahmadiyyat and by this means they become firm in Islam and refuse to be corrupted, does not Islam triumph and is not Hinduism defeated? Moreover, every community must work according to its own methods

or it will lose its efficiency. The members of the Ahmadiyya Community, for instance, are trained to preach and work according to the specific methods of their community. Now force them to preach as Shias do, or make them express only those views that are held by Ahl-i-Hadith or compel them to play the part of a strict orthodox Hanafi, and they are helpless. So, liberty of conscience and liberty in the option of the method of preaching must remain, or our efforts will defeat their own end.

How to work in unison

It is sometimes argued that all the workers must give expression to and preach only those doctrines that are common to all the sects. This looks plausible, but it can appeal only to those who are either away from the field of action or are hopelessly ignorant of the necessities of warfare.

As a matter of fact, it is impossible to adopt this method practically. Scores of occasions may arise daily when a preacher, if he wishes to work according to this method, will have to either admit his defeat before the attacking enemy or break the rule. For example, an Arya preacher makes an attack on Islam by saying that Islam teaches irrational and unreasonable things and, as an illustration, cites the popular doctrine of the Musalmans that Jesus Christ, peace be with him, was taken up into the heavens in flesh and blood. What will a non-Ahmadi answer? If he admits that Islam does really teach this doctrine but proceeds to prove that it is not irrational, he is not treading on common ground and so breaks the law. And if, in answer to the Arya, he expresses the Ahmadiyya view, i.e., it is wrong to say that Islam preaches such a doctrine, he acts against his conscience and so defeats his own end. Again, suppose an Arya preacher attacks Islam by saying that Islam cannot be the true religion because it calls upon its followers to use force in religious matters and enjoins them to spread their religion at the point of the sword and, as an illustration of the same, he cites the case of the Warrior Mahdi whose advent is so eagerly anticipated by most of the Musalmans. Now, what will a non-Ahmadi answer? Will he not say that the Warrior Mahdi shall certainly come and shall kill all those who refuse to embrace Islam, including the Arya critic himself, and that the use of force is permissible under certain circumstances? Most Musalman preachers cannot answer otherwise. But is that the common ground? Similar questions might arise between Shias and Sunnis, between Hanafis and Ahl-i-Hadith, between Razai Mustafa and Deobandis and in fact between any two sects of Islam where it would be vain to search for a common ground because no such ground exists.

From the above, it should be clear that unless we base our unity on some broader and more practical principles, we cannot become united, and troubles must and will continue to crop out. Where we have to face an enemy, whose attacks are not confined to any particular Islamic doctrine but cover the entire field of religion, it is useless to expect the Musalman preachers to confine themselves to the so-called common ground. It can be possible only if we can enter into an understanding with the Hindus that they would make no attack against Islam that would force our

preachers to say in answer anything except that Allah, our God, is One, Muhammad, peace be with him, is His Apostle, and the Quran is his revealed book.

Then, there is the practical side of religion, where under the existing circumstances it is sheer madness to think of a common ground. A Shia, for instance, would stand in his prayers with his hands hanging down, while a Sunni would fold them on his breast; an Ahl-i-Hadith would sometimes combine two prayers, while a Hanafi would think it to be unlawful. Again, an Ahl-i-Hadith would recite ‘Amin’ rather loudly, but a Hanafi would never do so; an Ahl-i-Hadith would lift his hands to his ears in every change of posture, but a Hanafi would not.

Similarly, there are scores of such differences among the various sects of Islam, and such differences cannot be concealed. Hence, it is futile to search for unity on this principle. A united front can be formed and maintained only if we recognise the principle that there must be liberty of conscience and liberty in the option of the method of preaching and that, in spite of differences, all must cooperate and sympathise with each other and abstain from making any show of hostility toward one another.

After this course of action has been decided upon, separate territories should be allotted to the different communities, and then unless a community breaks the above-mentioned rule, there should be no interference from outside. But in the allotment of territories, one thing is very essential, and if that is disregarded, very unhappy results might accrue, and that is this groups of villages should be formed on the principle of relationship. Suppose A, B and C are three villages that are nearly

related to one another, now all these three villages must go to one anjuman. The remote relationship is, of course, negligible, for if that is taken into account, it would mean that only one anjuman should occupy the whole field to the entire exclusion of others, because all Malkanas are somehow or other related to one another. Moreover, the remote relationship does not matter much. The danger lies in two villages that are very nearly related to each other being under the influence of two different bodies. If that danger is safeguarded, the work may go on satisfactorily.

In short, a united front is absolutely necessary and a united front cannot be formed unless our Musalman brethren free themselves from blind prejudice against one another and broaden their vision; otherwise, the present state of affairs cannot last long. The Aryas are eagerly watching our differences and are waiting for the hour when an open rupture in the Islamic Camp will give them a golden opportunity to gather a rich and plentiful harvest from the Malkana field. As a matter of fact, our differences have already given them half the share of the produce, for it is an unpleasant fact that in the central districts of Agra, Muttra and Bharatpur the Hindus have succeeded in winning over to Hinduism about half of the Malkana Community. There was a time when the ranks of Islam were daily increased by the conversion of hordes of unbelievers and the present is the time when hordes of Musalmans are being daily converted from Islam. What an irony of fate! But who is responsible?

(Transcribed and edited by Al Hakam from the original, published in The Review of Religions [English], April 1923)

“The Holy Quran and the month of Ramadan have a special connection. Therefore, alongside fasting, one ought to ponder over the Quran and strive to act according to its teachings so that one can derive true blessings from the fasts during Ramadan.”

(Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Friday Sermon, 10 May 2019; Al Hakam, 7 June 2019, Issue 64, p. 14)

100 Years Ago...

Shuddhi Movement: Ahmadi missionaries’ departure to Agra

Faith-inspiring scene of Ahmadi missionaries departing to Agra to win the hearts of Malkana Rajputs back to Islam

Al Fazl, 2 April 1923

Under the guidance and instructions of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra, on 24 March 1923, Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s second delegation, consisting of 22 missionaries, left Qadian for Agra to stop the Apostasy Movement of the Malkana Rajputs. The details of their departure are given below. (Editor, Al Hakam)

At 10am on 24 March [1923], Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] received a telegram from Agra sent by the head of the Ahmadiyya Da‘wat-oTabligh Delegation, Qadian, that they were in urgent need of 20 more missionaries. Forthwith, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih sent a message to all the Ahmadis of Qadian that they should immediately gather at the Mubarak Mosque. This news spread like wildfire and reached every nook and cranny of Qadian, and in an instant, the Mubarak Mosque was full of Ahmadi members. Huzoor[ra] was informed that the devotees had gathered [in the mosque].

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih left the assembly of Majlis-e-Mushawarat [Consultative Body] and reached the Mubarak Mosque. All the members of the Majlis were with him. Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib[ra] MA had the necessary documents in his hands. The leader of Islam arrived and the whole mosque fell silent as if it were empty, and there were no people but statues sitting [in front of him].

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih stood in the mihrab [niche] of the mosque. After reciting tashahhud, ta‘awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Huzoor[ra] spoke on the subject of the sacrifice of wealth and time for religion. This address was a comprehensive explanation of Fardh [obligatory duty], Fardh-eKifayah [collective duty], and Nawafil [supererogatory]. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said, “To perfect your faith, it is necessary to perform nawafil. That rests solely on one’s own choice.” This whole speech has been published in one of the previous issues of Al Fazl, friends may have read it. In the end, Huzoor[ra] put forward the demand that Islam was in need of 20 devotees on whom the sun should set outside of Qadian.

The moment Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said something similar to the aforementioned words, an overwhelming emotional state fell on all those present. Their faces started shining with the zeal of service. Every young and old person wanted to be the first to go forward with this service. Each one of them desired that their name

be accepted among the ones who presented themselves for this cause. From all sides, these voices began to rise: “Huzoor! I am ready, please send me”, “O Hazrat! Just give me the order,” “Hazrat! Please accept my request,” and “Master! Your servant is ready.” Huzoor[ra] said that the friends who were

to Hazrat Imam[ra]. Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib[ra] was ordered to write down the names of those who were selected. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih spoke out the names and Hazrat Sahibzada Sahib[ra] wrote them down.

We published in the 26 March [1923]

prayed for those who were determined to go and all those who were present, as well as for those who did not present their names for one reason or another, that Allah may grant them the strength to serve His religion and remove all kinds of impediments from their path. The prayer continued for a long time and then the assembly was dismissed. Those who were leaving were happy that they were going for the service of Islam, and those who submitted their names but were not selected this time, due to the fulfilment of the requirement or some other reason, were very sad. Consequently, this couplet came out of one’s mouth:

“The swift men managed to secure their positions on the camels’ saddles and we kept listening to the sound of the camels’ bells in their caravan.”

requesting should present their names. On this instruction, pieces of paper and pencils were searched for. Someone was taking out pages from a notebook and writing down their names, someone was writing their names on the corner of a book’s page, and others were bringing pieces of a paper bag and writing their names on it. If the pages were falling short, multiple names were being written on one piece of paper. Even after that, the passion was not subsiding, and pages and pens ran out. Lists were compiled on the margins of newspapers. The father was saying his son was ready to go and the elder brother was volunteering himself. At the same time, they were requesting, “Huzoor[ra], please send their brothers along with them.” Hazrat Khalifatul Masih replied that they should present their names themselves. They submitted that their brothers were busy with some work when they came, but they knew full well that they were ready to go. Huzoor[ra] reiterated, “Every single person should submit their own name.” The names were written down and the pieces of paper were handed over

issue of Al Fazl under the heading, Madinat-ul-Masih, that there were 60 to 70 volunteers. However, now, upon counting, it has come to our knowledge that, before Asr prayer on that same day, a total of 119 friends had offered themselves.

Hence, the list of the selected individuals was compiled. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said that he would first mention the names of those friends who presented their services. So, the names of all those associates were announced and then the names of those who were selected were announced. These 20 friends were selected apart from those two individuals whose names were already approved before the arrival of the telegram. One of them was Maulvi Chaudhary

Muhammad Abdus Salam Khan Sahib of Kathgarh, an expert in Hindu literature, and the other was Maulvi Abdus Samad Sahib Patialvi, author of the book, Nehkalank Avatar. They submitted their names [in the mosque] as well, and along with the others, they were also ordered to prepare.

After that, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih prayed for those who were leaving. He also

Though they were saddened by their misfortune that they did not get the opportunity to excel others, they were happy at the good fortune of their brothers that they were front runners who would lead the work. Hence, everyone was giving congratulations to those who were going. They were being embraced, and people were requesting to pray for them. Prayers were also being requested for those who could not go, so that they may soon be sent forward for the service of religion. The ones leaving were under the spell of the service of Islam. They were happily meeting their friends. They were overjoyed at their fortunate selection. Hence, it was in a state that cannot be described in words. Surely, the eyes witnessed this sight and its image was imprinted on the heart.

The voices of congratulations and greetings came to a halt. The selected ones went home to prepare and before 2pm, they began to gather under Masjid Mubarak. Among these people were those who usually had to hire porters when they travelled [due to the extensive items they carried with them]. However, on that day, their luggage was very precise. They only had bedsheets and blankets, and a few clothes, which were also packed with the bedclothes. Moreover, they had a few essential books and a small copy of the Holy Quran suspended around their neck. Meanwhile, the time for the Asr prayer came. Mubarak Mosque was full of worshippers and rows of salat formed on the upper portion as well. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih led the prayer. The square near the

mosque was filled with the residents of Qadian who had come to see off the caravan. Consequently, the leader of Islam came out to see off his dear devotees and a wave was created in the sea of men. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih was at the forefront. There was such a fervour of devotion, love and sincerity that people were falling on each other [due to overcrowding]. Everyone was trying to stay as close to his master and Imam[ra] as possible. Huzoor[ra] was walking fast. Consequently, the followers also had to walk with him at a fast pace and at the same time, everyone was trying to get ahead of each other to listen to the blessed words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. Due to the rush of people, the dust began to rise and a dust cloud formed in the sky. There is no doubt that it was hurting Huzoor[ra], but owing to his high moral standard, he did not even look with discomfort at those ardent followers so that they may not be disheartened.

In this manner, the almost two-mile journey came to an end. On the way, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih gave some advice and instructions. May Allah enable us to follow them.

When the car reached the well, a circle of people formed around it. The leader of Islam stood inside this circle. Friends were seated. Those leaving were called and seated inside the circle. The whole path to Qadian was full of white turbans, far and wide. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih waited for all the friends to gather. When the head of the delegation attended, it was found that two or three men were still catching up. They were called out in a loud voice and they also came forward and sat inside the circle. Time was running out and people were still coming to the car to say goodbye. Thus, Huzoor[ra] started his address with the praise of Allah and emphasised to express gratefulness to God Almighty. He explained that, “We are the ones who deserve to say Alhamdulillah [Praise be to Allah] as we have been granted the opportunity to serve His religion.” Then, he emphasised praying abundantly because, without the help of God, no work was blessed or beneficial and there was no surety of its success. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said, “You people are weak but connect with the Mighty God and get strength from Him.” He also expressed that, “Now, Arya newspapers have started a new mischief as a countermeasure. They are

<< Continued from page 9

creation, learning the Faith, and following it as well. (Ibid.)

Return to Qadian

On 9 April, Huzoorra returned to Qadian at around 9pm.

Huzoor’sra impressions of the visit

Mentioning his impressions about this visit during his Friday Sermon on 13 April 1934, Huzoorra said that the opposition to Ahmadiyyat is at its peak and the opponents are leaving no stone unturned to harm and discredit the Jamaat in the eyes of the public and the government through various tracts, books, announcements, newspaper articles, and lectures, but “I have also reached a conclusion that despite

spreading [misinformation] that Ahmadis intend to riot everywhere. However, the world knows that Ahmadis are relatively small in number in every city. There are only a couple of cities where the number of Ahmadis is in the thousands. Otherwise, Punjab, which is the centre of the Ahmadi population, also has a comparatively small number of Ahmadis in most of its cities. As for the villages, they too have the same ratio. If counted, there would be only one or two villages which are completely populated with Ahmadi inhabitants. Then, there will be 20 to 30 villages in which half or more than half of their population comprise of Ahmadiyya Community. Otherwise, the number of Ahmadis in the villages is also relatively less than other communities. On the contrary, Hindus are in abundance all over [India]. Moreover, Hindus have superiority in terms of wealth and affluence, not only over Ahmadis, but over all the other Muslims as well.

“Secondly, what kind of character does the Ahmadiyya Jamaat possess? All friends and foes are well aware of it. Ahmadis are emphatically taught to avoid mischief and not to repay evil with evil.”

It is by the grace of God that members of the Jamaat follow this teaching to the letter. They respond to the hostilities of their opponents with kindness. They resort to polite and gentle words when they are stoned. They pray for their enemies in response to their abuses. This is the sole reason why the Ahmadiyya Jamaat is progressing in leaps and bounds and will continue to do so, insha-Allah. Thus, in accordance with the following verse of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, he advised those who were leaving to face hardships with patience and not to retaliate against the cruel highhandedness:

“Always keep in mind the teaching of kindness and sincerity, and never let it go in vain.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said, “If you are subjected to beatings, do not raise your hands. You should listen to abuses and pray for them in return, as your success lies in this ordeal.” This part of Huzoor’s[ra] speech was very powerful and moving. [...]

In the end, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih said, “It is a custom that a gift is given to those who are departing. I wanted to give

all these oppositions, people are ready to listen to our views as well, and they desire someone to make them aware of the views of the Jamaat. On the occasion of my visit to Lyallpur, some of the staunch opponents tried their utmost to somehow prevent people from paying attention to [the Jamaat]. However, despite the fact that the local jamaat is very small there, [...] and despite the prevailing circumstances, people did not care about the opposition carried out by the opponents. On average, the attendance [during the two days of jalsa] was thought to be between 3 and 6 thousand, and before that, I had never witnessed outside Qadian such a vast gathering of people in an open field as that witnessed at the Jalsa Salana in Qadian. [...]

“But the point is not that the jalsa gah was full of people, in fact, the point to ponder is that people from all walks of life attended it, despite severe opposition and

a gift as well. Consequently, our family members, (which include the two daughters of Ummul Momineen [Hazrat Aman Janra] and the Promised Messiahas, and the family of Hazrat Imam[ra], etc.), have presented 43 rupees. I am submitting this money to our brother Abdur Rahim Sahib to give sadaqah [charity] on behalf of our devoted brothers. He should give charity on the way and also spend on some charitable needs there.” On this, all the friends contributed something or the other to this charity. Each person placed their offerings in the hands of their Imam[ra]. Huzoor[ra] accepted them by saying “Jazak-Allah [May Allah grant you the best of rewards].” He then gave the offerings to the head of the delegation with his own hands. Someone gave cash, someone gave a handkerchief, someone gave a purse, someone gave clippers and others presented dates. An Ahmadi elder presented sweetmeat weighing around 3 to 4 ser [1 ser is equal to about 2 kilograms] as breakfast for the missionaries. The amount collected as charity was around 200 rupees. After that, Huzoor[ra] prayed for the delegation for a long time. The eyes were full of tears and the hearts in the bosoms were as if prostrating on the throne of God. Some friends, who could not go for some reason, were crying and weeping. After prayer, everyone seemed content and the honourable Imam[ra] blessed members of the delegation with a handshake. He came on the road to bid them farewell. Friends stood on the road in rows of two. The caravan stood away from the rows of friends, but right in front of the eyes of their Imam[ra]. It was ordered that the caravan go ahead. All members of the delegation said “As-salam-u ‘Alaikum” in a loud voice and left for the journey. The leader of God’s party kept looking at his devotees and praying. Friends returned to Qadian in the same manner as when they left to see off the caravan. That is, in four rows, which were converted to 2 while entering the town, alhamdulillah

This is the Jamaat, which the world calls “kafir” [disbelievers] and dajjal [antichrist], God forbid. Is there a precedent where any other party goes ahead with such enthusiasm for the service of Islam and their imam encourages them with such passion to serve the religion? If there is any such example, please present it. One can find people who take money and work,

even the edicts from the opponent ‘ulema that in the case of meeting Ahmadis, their nikah would be broken. The attendees included both dignitaries and the general public. From this, we come to know that if, on the one hand, we are facing problems due to the efforts of our opponents, on the other hand, their opposition is bringing the attention of the people [towards Ahmadiyyat], instead of halting the ways of our tabligh.” (Al Fazl, 19 April 1934, p. 5)

Huzoorra further said:

“Look, it was this very opposition that led them here. [...] In many instances, the opposition ultimately proves fruitful. I have concluded from this visit that, despite the opposition, we are receiving the grace of God Almighty in that, with the help of this opposition, the people are gradually inclining towards Ahmadiyyat. [...] A seed has already been sown in [the hearts of] those 3 to 6 thousand people who

but where will you find such people, each of whom is so devoted that they will not take a single rupee for themselves or their children? Rather, they commit to providing for their own needs and those of their families and they work in a manner that even a slave would not do. Does not this lead to the conclusion that this Jamaat is the Jamaat of the Truthful?

“Peace and blessings of Allah be upon the Holy Prophetsa and his obedient servant, Prophet Ahmadas.”

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 2 April 1923 issue of Al Fazl)

Promised Messiah day Jalsa held in Bradford East, Canada

Touseef Ahmad Rehan

Secretary Ishaat, Bradford East Jamaat, Canada

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bradford East, Canada, organised Jalsa Yaum-e-Masih-eMaud on 23 March 2023, at the Bradford Community Centre.

The event started with a recitation from the Holy Quran with its English and Urdu translations, followed by a poem. After this, Khalid Minhas Sahib delivered a speech and described various incidents regarding the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas. The event concluded with a silent prayer. A total of 167 members attended the event.

attended the jalsa, which will manifest itself tomorrow, if not today, or in the next month, if not this month. If they have attended our jalsas with an interest, despite the threats of their nikah being broken, it indicates that they have a passion in their hearts for seeking the truth, which will surely manifest its impact one day.” (Ibid., p. 6)

Huzoorra then mentioned that various non-Ahmadi Muslims, Sikh people, municipal officers, police officers and other dignitaries provided great cooperation to the Jamaat amidst all these circumstances:

“It tells us that, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, the good-natured people have sympathetic sentiments in their hearts towards us. Moreover, they realise that the ignorant people oppose [Ahmadiyyat] for their personal objectives only, and this Community is serving the country and nation.” (Ibid.)

Prophets of Allah

Moses: The prophet who freed the Children of Israel

“

Al Hakam

Prophet Mosesas, known as یسوم [Musa] in the Holy Quran, was a law-bearing Prophet of Allah. He freed Bani Isra’il, the Children of Israel, from the brutalities and oppression of the Pharaoh of that time.

Prophet Mosesas was one of the Prophets whom the Holy Prophetsa met during his spiritual journey, the Mi‘raj (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al Salat, Hadith 349). The Holy Prophetsa, in the Holy Quran, has been likened to Mosesas. (Surah al-Muzzammil, Ch. 73: V.16)

The Holy Quran states that it gives the true events of Moses’as life. With regards to the progeny of Prophet Isaac, it was in Prophet Mosesas that Allah’s promise with Abraham (Genesis, 17:19) saw its complete manifestation (For more details, see the article about Prophet Isaacas, Al Hakam, 24 February 2023, Issue 258, pp. 11-12). The Prophets sent after Mosesas were reformerprophets who came under the law of Mosesas

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra writes:

“The progeny of Isaacas multiplied exceedingly. From among them arose the prophets Mosesas, Davidas, Ezekielas, Danielas and Jesusas. (Introduction to the Study of the Holy Quran, p. 61)

Clarification of Nabi and Rasul

The Holy Quran, regarding Prophet Mosesas, uses both the titles Rasul and Nabi:

ایبن الوسر ناکو اﺼلﺨم ناک ہنا

“He was indeed a chosen one; and he was a Messenger, a Prophet.” (Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.52)

In this verse, Prophet Mosesas has been recorded as Rasul and Nabi. This verse dispels a misconception that some Muslims have. Some say that Rasul and Nabi hold different connotations: Rasul is used for a messenger who brings a new law and a new book, while Nabi is one whom God sends to reform people and receives divine revelation, but is not accompanied by a book. They argue, every Rasul is a Nabi but not every Nabi is a Rasul

However, if this notion were correct, then the Holy Quran wouldn’t state that Mosesas was both Rasul and Nabi. If a Rasul means a person who brings a new law and book and, at the same time, is also a Nabi, then the usage of the title Nabi in this verse ایبن ا وسر ناکو is redundant and out of place, God forbid. The fact of the matter is that every Rasul is a Nabi and every Nabi is a Rasul. (For more, see Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5,

And We did raise among every people a Messenger”

p. 287, Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.52)

Pharaoh and Haman

The Holy Quran states that Mosesas was sent “unto Pharaoh and Haman and Korah; but they said, ‘[He is] a lying sorcerer.’” (Surah al-Mu’min, Ch.40: V.25) Throughout the

God, in the Holy Quran, states that He revealed to the mother of Mosesas:

“‘Suckle him; and when thou fearest for him, then cast him into the river and fear not, nor grieve; for We shall restore him to thee, and shall make him one of the Messengers.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.8) For fear of her child being killed by the Pharaoh, Moses’as mother cast him afloat into a river after receiving word from God.

Upon seeing Mosesas afloat on a river, a person from Pharaoh’s household, Pharaoh’s daughter, picked him out and took him home (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol.7, p. 479). The Quran says regarding this incident:

“And Pharaoh’s wife said, ‘[He will be] a joy of the eye, for me and for thee. Kill him not. Haply he will be useful to us, or we may adopt him as a son.’ And they perceived not [the consequences thereof].” (Surah alQasas, Ch.28: V.10)

Immediately, not able to bear what he had done, Mosesas sought God’s forgiveness. The fact that he did not use any weapons shows that he did not have any ill intent. He was merely attempting to put a halt to the quarrel; however, he ended up killing the man. When God forgave him for this mishap, Mosesas vowed that he would always side with those who were oppressed. (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.17-18)

Following this, the chiefs of Pharaoh’s people counselled together to kill Mosesas A man, who desired good for Mosesas, came to him running, saying, “‘O Moses, of a truth, the chiefs are taking counsel together against thee to kill thee.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.21) Upon finding out, Mosesas prayed to God to deliver him from this. (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.22)

Migration to Midian and marriage

ages, prophets have been labelled with various names by their enemies.

The Holy Quran describes Pharoah as acting arrogantly and as someone who “sought to weaken a party of them, slaying their sons, and sparing their women. Certainly, he was of the mischief-makers.”

(Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.5)

At this time, as the atrocities committed by the Pharaoh and the likes of Haman reached their limit, God, desiring to show favour to those who had been considered weak on earth, raised a prophet who would save the people of Israel from the chains of slavery.

Pharaoh, who was drunk on power and afraid of being overtaken, ordained a policy of divide and rule. “Haman was the title of the High Priest of the god Amon, ‘ham’ in Egyptian meaning high priest and Amon was the god who dominated all other Egyptian gods. ‘Haman was the director of the double treasury and granary and director of the soldiers and all the craftsmen of Thebes. His name was Nebunnef and he was a high priest under Ramesses II and his son Merneptah. Being the head of the extremely rich sacerdotal organisation embracing all the priesthoods of the country, his power and prestige had increased so much that he controlled the most influential political faction and even kept his own private army’

(A Story of Egypt by James Henry Breasted, Ph.D.).” (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 2432)

Revelation to Moses’as mother

The man who was destined to free the Israelites from the cruelties and bondage of Pharaoh, then just a baby boy, grew up in the Pharaoh’s lap. Indeed, remarkable are the ways of God.

Mosesas grows up in the house of the Pharaoh

Having grown up in the house of the Pharaoh, we are not wrong to assume that Moses’as education as well as his physical build must have been good in comparison to the people of the time. Being destined for greatness in the future, the Quran says that Mosesas was given wisdom and knowledge. The Holy Quran states:

“And when he reached his age of full strength and attained maturity, We gave him wisdom and knowledge (Surah al Qasas, Ch.28: V.15) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states that this means he reached an age at which revelation is revealed. (Tafsir-e-Saghir, p.499) The verse further states, “and thus do We reward those who do good.” (Surah al Qasas, Ch.28: V.15) which shows that Mosesas was muhsin which means he was frequently occupied in good deeds.

An unfortunate incident and plot to kill Mosesas

The Holy Quran states that one day, Mosesas found two men quarrelling – one of his own party, and the other of his enemies. Being of good nature, when the poor man sought help, Mosesas was ready to help the oppressed. The Quran states: “So Moses smote him with his fist; and [thereby] caused his death. He said, ‘This is of Satan’s doing; he is indeed an enemy, a manifest misleader.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.16)

Fleeing from his hometown and finding his way to Midian, Mosesas prayed to Allah: “‘I hope my Lord will guide me to the right way.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.23)

Upon arriving at Midian’s water, he saw a group of men watering their flocks and also saw two women, with their flocks, remaining back. Mosesas asked them, “‘What is the matter with you?’” To which they answered, “‘We cannot water our flocks until the shepherds take away [their flocks], and our father is a very old man.’” (Surah alQasas, Ch.28: V.24)

Mosesas then offered to help them water their flocks at the well of Midian. He then turned to a shade and prayed, “‘My Lord, I am in need of whatever good Thou mayest send down to me.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.25) One of the two women approached Mosesas and said that her father was calling him so that they may reward him for his help. The Bible states that the father was Jethro (Exodus, 3:1). Mosesas told him of what had happened to him. The noble man, convinced of Moses’as nobility, said that he was now safe and also acknowledged the Egyptians of the time as unjust people. (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.26-27)

He gave one of his daughters’ hand in marriage to Mosesas and asked for Moses’as service for 8 or 10 years. The fact of the matter is, as explained by Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra, that the father, being old, was in need of an honest man to look after his flock. Since the qualities the father desired were found in Mosesas, the father considered Mosesas. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 7, p. 490)

The father offered one of his daughters to Mosesas and desired that he remain with him, as a son-in-law, and serve and remain

Jalees Ahmad

with him for eight years, so that he may benefit from his noble company. (Surah alQasas, Ch.28: V.28)

Moses’as call

When Mosesas had completed the term, he decided to travel with his family to Egypt.

On the way, he saw a fire near Mount Horeb (Exodus 3:1-3), in the desert of Sinai. He said to his family, “‘Wait, I perceive a fire; haply I may bring you some useful information therefrom, or a burning brand from the fire that you may warm yourselves.’”

(Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.30)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has said that it was a vision that Mosesas saw and that it was a spiritual sight on the Mount. (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 7, p. 500) As Mosesas approached it, he heard a voice calling, “‘O Moses, verily I am, Allah, the Lord of the worlds.’” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.31) It was here that Allah had revealed to Mosesas that He had chosen him. The first commandment given to Mosesas was to observe prayer. (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.15)

Moses’as rod and the white hand

In the vision, when Mosesas was asked about the rod, he said:

“‘This is my rod, I lean on it, and beat down therewith leaves for my sheep, and I have also other uses for it.’” (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.19)

As this was a vision, it bears a huge significance to Moses’as mission. In the visions, the rod signified, as explained by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, Moses’as community, Bani Isra’il. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, p. 413)

Further, we read:

“He said, ‘Cast it down, O Moses.’ So he cast it down, and behold! it was a serpent running. [God] said, ‘Catch hold of it, and fear not. We shall restore it to its former condition.’” (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.20-22)

When Mosesas was told, in the vision, to cast his rod down, he saw it as a serpent. This, in the vision, meant that if Mosesas were to leave his community, as he did the rod, the outcome would be unpleasant. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, p. 414) History bears this out, and it has been alluded to in Surah al-Baqarah when Mosesas left his people for

40 nights and they turned to idol worship.

Then, when Mosesas was frightened seeing the serpent, he was told to fear not and take hold of it, after which it was restored to its former condition. (Surah TaHa, Ch.20: V.22) It means that Mosesas saw first-hand what would happen to his people if he abandoned them. He was told, to restore their condition, his attention, nurturing and care were required. (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 5, p. 414)

Next, in the vision, Mosesas was told, “‘And draw thy hand close under thy armpit. It shall come forth white, without any disease — another Sign.” (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.23)

The Holy Quran says Mosesas perceived his hand turning white without any ill effects. Here, the Holy Quran uses the words کحانج یلا کدی. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has explained that دی can refer to a community. Hence, the vision symbolised that so long as Mosesas bestowed his fostering care to his community, they shall become noble men of God who beamed with spiritual light. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, p. 415)

Moses’as encounter with Pharaoh

When Mosesas was told to go to Pharaoh, whose name was Merneptah, he prayed to God to make this task easy for him and requested that Aaronas, his brother, assist him as he was better at speaking. (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.25-30)

Allah the Almighty told Mosesas to go to Pharaoh and to speak gently to him. This highlights an important lesson for preachers; it teaches that they must always adhere to soft speech when conveying their message. In this way, it is more probable that one’s message will be taken in by the other party. (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.45)

Mosesas and Aaronas were commanded to tell him that they were sent as messengers from God and inform him to let the people of Israel go free. (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.48)

In Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, it is recorded that when Mosesas and Aaronas went to Pharaoh with their message, Pharaoh said, “‘Did we not bring thee up among us as a child? And thou didst stay among us many years of thy life. And thou didst do thy deed which thou didst, and thou art of the ungrateful.’” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.19-20) Here, Pharaoh

alludes to the Egyptian Mosesas accidentally killed earlier in his life. Mosesas replied: “‘I did do it then, and I was [one] of the erring.”

(Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.21)

Further, in Surah Ta Ha, we read Mosesas and Aaronas said:

“‘It has, indeed, been revealed to us that punishment shall come on him who rejects [the Message of God] and turns away.’”

Pharaoh replied, “‘Who then is the Lord of you two, O Moses?’”

Mosesas said, “‘Our Lord is He Who gave unto everything its [proper] form [and] then guided [it to its proper function].’”

(Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.49-51)

So far in this conversation, the message Mosesas brought seems to be new for Pharaoh who did not believe in God.

Pharaoh demands

a sign

With every prophet, there is always a group of men who demand signs. Pharaoh demanded a sign from Mosesas. Thus, Mosesas threw his rod, and behold, it was a serpent, plainly visible. The rod did not actually turn into a serpent. It was, in fact, a vision shared by all present. (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.108)

The phenomenon of visions being shared by others is not something new. Instances from the life of the Holy Prophetsa have been shared in the books of history, which allude to the possibility of visions being shared by others. For example, the chest incision incident that happened to the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa when he was a young child (for a further read, see Seal of the ProphetsVolume I, under the heading “Fosterage and Childhood”).

Another incident worth mentioning here involves the Holy Prophet’ssa visit to Abu Jahl, who owed some money to a poor person in Mecca. A man approached the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa for help, explaining that Abu Jahl had been refusing to repay his debt. Upon hearing this, the Holy Prophetsa confronted Abu Jahl and demanded that he pay back the debt. Surprisingly, Abu Jahl immediately complied with the request. When asked why he had suddenly paid back the debt, he explained that he had seen two vicious, angry camels ready to attack him if he did not listen to the Holy Prophet’ssa words. Similarly, Pharaoh had a similar

experience when he saw a serpent.

The Five Volume Commentary explains:

“It was a sort of a vision in which God either exercised special control over the sight of the onlookers in order to make them see the rod in the form of a serpent or the rod itself was made to appear like a serpent; and this vision was shared by Pharaoh and his courtiers and the enchanters along with Mosesas. The rod remained a rod, only it appeared to Mosesas and others as a serpent. It is a spiritual phenomenon of common occurrence that in a vision when man rises above the encumbrances of the flesh and becomes temporarily transported to a spiritual sphere, he can see things taking place which are beyond his ken and are quite invisible to his physical eyes. The miracle of the rod turning into a serpent was one such spiritual experience.” (Five Volume Commentary, p. 1018)

Prophet Mosesas then “drew forth his hand, and lo! it was white for the beholders.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.109) This miracle and sign has also been mentioned in the Bible; however, the Bible states that the hand was “leprous” (Exodus, 4:6) whereas the Quran describes it as “without any disease” (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.23) which was a vision, as described above, with great spiritual significance.

Seeing Moses’as signs, Pharaoh said, “‘This is surely a skilful magician. He seeks to turn you out of your land by his magic.’” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.35-36) With a study of the words and style of speech used by Pharaoh, it seems he was attempting to incite his people against Mosesas and desired to create division between them when he said that Mosesas sought to remove them from the land. Whereas, in reality, Mosesas only wanted to free his people from the cruel realities of Pharaoh.

Pharaoh calls his magicians to challenge Mosesas Pharaoh called his magicians to challenge Mosesas. Pharaoh said that if they were successful in their challenge against Mosesas, they would be granted a high position in the royal court. (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.39-43) They assembled together at the appointed time on a fixed day.

The magicians said, “‘O Moses, either throw thou [first], or we shall be the first throwers.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.116)

Mosesas replied that they should throw first. The Quran says that when they threw their ropes and their rods, they captivated the eyes of the people, struck them with awe and brought forth great magic (Surah alA‘raf, Ch.7: V.117). They said, “‘By Pharaoh’s honour, it is we who will surely win.’” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.45)

At this point, Mosesas was inspired by God to throw his rod, which then undid the magic cast by the magicians, exposing their futile attempt. Upon this, Pharaoh’s people returned humiliated. The magicians, however, realised that Mosesas was, in fact, a messenger from God Who helped him, and believed in him. They said, “‘We believe in the Lord of the worlds, ‘The Lord of Moses and Aaron.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.118123)

him. (Al-Sirat Al-Nabawiyyah, ibn Hisham, pp. 340-342, Zikr Hijrat-e-Rasul, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001)

Mosesas told his people to “‘Seek help from Allah and be steadfast. Verily, the earth is Allah’s; He gives it as a heritage to whomsoever He pleases of His servants, and the end is for the God-fearing.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.129)

Punishment of Pharaoh’s people

The people of Pharaoh were punished with “drought and scarcity of fruits.” (Surah alA‘raf, Ch.7: V.131) “This verse speaks of two kinds of punishment which overtook Pharaoh’s people – loss of property and loss of life, the word تارمث (fruits) meaning both fruits and children or offspring.” (Five Volume Commentary, Vol.2, p. 1028)

Rather than repenting, Pharaoh’s people ascribed the punishment that befell them to Mosesas. Proudly, they said they would never submit to Mosesas and would never allow the Israelites to be free. (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.132)

The Holy Quran says, “Then We sent upon them the storm and the locusts, and the lice, and the frogs, and the blood – clear Signs; but they behaved proudly and were a sinful people.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.134)

The punishment that befell the people of Pharaoh has been stated in the abovementioned verse. The word “storm” alludes to the plague of hail and the plague of darkness. “Locust” refers to the plague of locusts. “Lice” alludes to lice, swarms of flies, and the murrain of beasts. Such was the case for the people of Pharaoh. (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 2, p. 1030)

Upon suffering severe punishments, they pleaded with Mosesas to pray for them. They said, “‘If thou remove from us the punishment, we will surely believe thee and we will surely send with thee the children of Israel.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.135) However, when the punishments were averted, they broke their promise.

Pharaoh stands against Moses

Pharaoh, taking pride in his wealth and power, desired to kill Mosesas and challenged him to call upon God to save him. (Surah al-Mu’min, Ch.40: V.27)

The chiefs of Pharaoh’s people said to him, “‘Wilt thou leave Moses and his people to create disorder in the land, and forsake thee and thy gods?’ He answered, ‘We will [ruthlessly] slay their sons and let their women live. And surely we are dominant over them.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.128)

Such was the enmity of Pharaoh. Drunk on his power, he saw himself above the law, a man who could do as he pleased. It was not long before this, he reminded Mosesas of the Egyptian he accidentally killed and now Pharaoh boasts of killing the sons of the followers of Mosesas

The Holy Quran states that a believing man from among the people of Pharaoh, who kept his faith hidden, said, “‘Will you slay a man because he says, ‘My Lord is Allah,’ while he has brought you clear proofs from your Lord? (Surah al-Mu’min, Ch.40: V.29)

History is replete with scenes of enemies hatching and plotting to kill the Messengers of their time. During the time of the Holy Prophetsa, the chieftains gathered in Darul-Nadwah to hatch a plan against the Holy Prophetsa and eventually schemed to kill

Only a few youths believed

The Holy Quran says, “And none obeyed Mosesas, save some youths from among his people, because of the fear of Pharaoh and their chiefs, lest he should persecute them.”

(Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.84)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, alluding to this verse, inferred that many a time, people believe in the message of their prophet; however, out of fear of their leaders, they dare not profess it lest they be conflicted with pain from their leaders. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol.3, p. 118)

Those who believed in Mosesas requested that he save them from the disbelieving people. Thus, Mosesas and his brother were revealed to, “‘Take, ye two, some houses for your people in the town, and make your houses so as to face one another and observe Prayer.’” (Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.88)

Meaning, as explained by Hazrat Musleh-eMuad, that it was essential for them to live together in Egypt so that they may come to each other’s aid at the time of need and be united in a bond of brotherhood. (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 3, p. 120)

Commandment to leave and the parting of the sea

Mosesas saw that Pharaoh and his people were leading men astray from the right path.

Thus, he prayed for punishment to befall Pharaoh and his people, saying, “‘Our Lord! destroy their riches and attack their hearts – and they are not going to believe until they see the grievous punishment.’” (Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.89)

Mosesas was then commanded by God to lead Bani Israel out of Egypt. God said, “‘Take away My servants by night, you will surely be pursued.’” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.53)

Enraged with Mosesas and his people, Pharaoh and his army charged to pursue them. When both parties – the people of Pharaoh and the companions of Mosesas –came into sight, Moses’as companions said, “‘We are surely overtaken.’” (Surah ashShu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.62)

With the sea before them, the disbelievers and army of Pharaoh in their pursuit, indeed, this was a very trying time.

Hearing their words, Mosesas, being a prophet of God, firmly replied, “‘My Lord is with me. He will direct me [to safety].’”

(Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.63) This is the example of a true prophet of God; in the face of danger, Prophets of Allah never waver. Their faith, strongly and firmly rooted, never gives out.

Allah the Almighty then revealed to Mosesas to strike the sea with his rod. “Thereupon it parted, and every part [looked] like a huge mountain.” (Surah ashShu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.64) Indeed, God saves His beloved ones in miraculous ways. With the help of Allah, Mosesas and his companions were able to safely cross the sea during the low tide. When Pharaoh and his army reached the middle of the sea, the high tide returned, causing them to be engulfed by the sea.

Pharaoh believes

After wrongfully and aggressively pursuing Mosesas and his people and seeing that he was unsuccessful in his plan, Pharaoh said, “‘I believe that there is no God but He in Whom the children of Israel believe, and I am of those who submit to Him.’” (Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.91)

In response, God said, “What! Now! while thou wast disobedient before [this] and wast of those who create disorder.”

(Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.92)

These words shed great light on the philosophy of faith. Faith is redundant if one is compelled to only believe after having witnessed clear and manifest signs. Such faith is weak, baseless and without value, not deserving of reward. True faith is belief in the unseen and the true Almighty Allah.

Allah states to Pharaoh, “This day We will save thee in thy body alone that thou mayest be a Sign to those who come after thee.’” (Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.93) It is interesting to note that only the Holy Quran makes mention of this; the Bible and other books of history are completely silent on this matter.

Forty days on the Mount

After being saved from the clutches of Pharaoh and his army, the children of Israel came across a people who were devoted to idols; they said to Mosesas, “‘O Moses, make for us a god just as they have gods.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.139) The people, having lived in Egypt under Pharaoh, seem to have been engulfed by the idolatrous ways of the

people of Pharaoh.

Mosesas replied, “‘Surely, you are an ignorant people. [As to] these, surely destroyed shall be all that they are engaged in, and vain shall be all that they do.’”

(Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.139-140)

The Holy Quran states that Mosesas went to Mount Sinai for 40 days. Before leaving, Mosesas said to Aaronas, “‘Act for me among my people in my absence, and manage them well, and follow not the way of those who cause disorder.’” (Surah alA‘raf, Ch.7: V.143)

On the mount, revealed to Mosesas were the commandments of God Almighty, which Mosesas wrote on a tablet. “It was indeed Mosesas, and not God, who wrote on the tablets the commandments that were revealed to him on the Mount; but as the commandments were revealed by God, the act of writing has been ascribed to Him.”

(Five Volume Commentary, Vol.2, p. 1038)

Prophet Muhammadsa and Prophet Mosesas

In chapter 73 of the Holy Quran, we read:

“Verily, We have sent to you a Messenger, who is a witness over you, even as We sent a Messenger to Pharaoh.” (Surah al-Muzzammil, Ch. 73: V.16)

The above-mentioned verse makes a reference to a Biblical prophecy (Deuteronomy 18:18) that predicts the emergence of a Prophet of God, similar to Mosesas, among the Ishmaelites.

Throughout the lives of both Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and Prophet Mosesas, we see striking similarities. For instance, both were law-bearing prophets, who faced severe opposition from the chiefs of their respective towns. Additionally, they were granted miracles to support their claims of truthfulness, among other shared characteristics.

When the Holy Prophetsa received the first revelation, he responded by saying:

ئراقب انأ ام

“I cannot read.” (Sahih al Bukhari, Kitab bad’i l-wahyy, Hadith 3)

In light of these words mentioned by the Holy Prophetsa, Qamar-ul-Anbiya, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra explained that it meant, “‘I cannot bear this responsibility.’” (Seal of the Prophets, Vol. I, p. 167)

He further explained, “This response was similar to that given by Hadrat Mosesas that ‘I am not capable of prophethood, this task should be assigned to someone else’, but who is more aware of the one who is capable of prophethood than Allah himself.” (Ibid.)

Alluding to Prophet Muhammadsa and Prophet Mosesas, the Promised Messiah explained:

“In other words, just as was the case when God sent Mosesas, in the time of the Noble Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, the disbelievers of Arabia were full of traits that resembled those of Pharaoh. They too, like Pharaoh, did not refrain from transgression until they witnessed a sign of glory. The work of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was like that of Mosesas. Apparently, it would seem that the work of Mosesas was not commendable, but the Holy Quran established otherwise.” (Malfuzat [English], Vol.1, p.41)

Tarbiyat Seminar held by Lajna Imaillah Ireland

Shahzad Malik General Secretary, Ireland

On 12 March 2023, Lajna Imaillah Ireland held its first in-person post-Covid-19 National Tarbiyat Seminar, at the Maryam Mosque in Galway, which was attended by 62 Lajna members and 20 nasirat from all over Ireland. Alhamdulillah.

The event began formally with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem. Secretary Tarbiyat then introduced the programme, which included interactive workshops, informative videos, question-and-answer sessions, and group discussions. An online interactive tool was also introduced to make the workshops more beneficial. All participants were urged to participate actively and engage with one another throughout the meeting to make the most of the opportunity.

The first workshop, “Keeping up the Pace”, was aimed at educating Lajna members and nasirat about common social media apps and their hidden dangers, followed by the

social, physical, and psychological effects associated with their inappropriate use. Additionally, the advantages and proper uses of social media were discussed, including the function of parents and the value of cordial family conversations. An audio-visual clip of Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa guidance on how to safeguard ourselves from the negative effects of social media was also presented. Various ideas were introduced on how to spend leisure time beneficially, including short videos introducing MTA programmes for all age groups.

This workshop was followed by a sideshow of the artwork sent by nasirat

The next workshop, “Precious Pearls”, was based on the concept and importance of modesty and purdah as prescribed by the Holy Quran. Various aspects of purdah including modesty in gaze, shaking hands with the opposite gender, and online purdah, were discussed, along with modesty in different situations like in schools, universities, the workplace, gatherings, and weddings. All of these were explained in

light of the sayings of Huzooraa

The last workshop was about “The Islamic Marital System”, in which the rulings of Islam regarding marriage and choosing a match were explained. The importance of preferring spirituality was highlighted with the help of Huzoor’saa guidance and current statistics on marriage outcomes in the modern world. This was followed by a session on the key to a successful marital relationship based on the guidance provided by Huzooraa on various occasions.

In the afternoon session, all members were divided into groups of married Lajna members, student Lajna members, and nasirat groups for question-and-answer sessions. The nasirat group also undertook a short prize-based quiz on various topics, including the concept of modesty, and group games, and wrote letters to Huzooraa

Lajna members as well as nasirat thoroughly enjoyed the whole event while increasing their knowledge and confidence in a spiritual environment. A mother-only meeting also took place during the second

Regional ijtema held by Majlis

Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya

Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Kenya’s Nairobi Region held its ijtema on 18-19 March 2023, at the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission Headquarters Mosque in Nairobi.

The event began with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its Swahili translation, followed by the Khuddamul Ahmadiyya pledge and an Urdu poem.

This was followed by opening remarks from the regional qaid

The first speech of the ijtema was delivered by a mu‘allim, Salim Omar Sahib on the “ Importance of Establishing Prayer ”. The second speech was on the “ Importance of Financial Sacrifices ”, by my humble self.

After the Asr prayer, the khuddam and atfal participated in various academic competitions, after which the Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered.

Members then remained in the mosque and watched the repeat telecast of Hazrat Amirul Momineen’s aa recent Friday sermon. Thereafter, all khuddam had a discussion session with Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Kenya, Shabir Ombango Sahib. Sadr Sahib called upon all khuddam from the Nairobi Region to first realise their responsibilities as khuddam , and work towards fulfilling these obligations. He cited examples of khuddam who were persecuted by

enemies in Bangladesh recently. He said we should thank Allah for being in a country where we can pray and organise our programmes without fear and that we should be ready to offer any sacrifice for the defence of our faith and country. Dinner was later served and all retired to bed, marking the end of the first successful day.

At 4:30am on 19 March, the khuddam and atfal woke up for Tahajjud and Fajr prayers, followed by Dars-ul-Quran After breakfast, sports competitions commenced at 8am.

The closing session for the ijtema commenced at 11:20am with the recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the Khuddamul Ahmadiyya pledge and an Arabic qasidah written by the Promised Messiah as

A speech then followed on the “ Importance of Watching MTA ” by Naeem Mulembo Sahib, and a Swahili poem in praise of the Holy Prophet sa recited by khuddam from Dandora Jamaat. The next speech was on “ Honour your Pledge ” by Sheikh Adnan Hashmi Sahib.

Amir and the missionary-in-charge Kenya, Tariq Mahmood Zafar Sahib gave prizes to winners in both academic and sports competitions and addressed the attendees. The event concluded with a silent prayer.

A total of 66 khuddam and atfal from four jamaats in the Nairobi region attended the ijtema

session. Mothers had the opportunity to engage with Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland on a variety of matters related to Rishta Nata and the education of the future generation in this regard. A daughter-only session was also held with the student Lajna members by the secretaries for Talim, Tarbiyat and Student Affairs.

The centenary souvenir stall arranged by the Ishaat Department was also very popular among all age groups.

In the final session, Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland addressed all members. She highlighted the importance of keeping the pleasure of Allah as our ultimate objective and the significance of prayers in every aspect of life. The seminar ended with a silent prayer.

The feedback from all the members of different age groups was very positive, and many expressed how much they learned and appreciated all the workshops, especially the incorporation of the live interaction tool and research-based audio-visual spiritual videos in this year’s event.

Nairobi, Kenya

Friday Sermon

Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, UK

10 March 2023

The Promised Messiahas: Status and glory of the Holy Quran

After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

In the recent Friday sermons, I have been speaking about the excellences and beauties of the Holy Quran. Whilst mentioning its excellences and beauties, the Promised Messiahas said that the Holy Quran is a perfect book; elaborating further on this, the Promised Messiahas says:

“I tell you truthfully that the Holy Quran is such a complete and comprehensive book that no other book can match it.”

Giving an example, the Promised Messiahas says, “Is there any verse of the Vedas that can match [the verse] نیقتملِ ل یدہ [‘it is a guidance for the righteous’]? If verbal confessions are to be considered, that is, if one is to overlook the fruits and results [of a book], then the entire world acknowledges God in one way or another and also views one’s devotion, worship, almsgiving and virtuous deeds as something positive. Moreover, it also acts upon these things in one way or another. In that case, what did the Vedas give to the world? (He was replying to Hindus here.) You should either prove that those nations that do not follow the Vedas are void of virtuous deeds or present an outstanding sign.”

The Promised Messiahas further says:

“At the very outset of the Quran, those advancements have been promised that the soul naturally desires. In Surah al-Fatihah میقتسملا طارصلا اندہا [‘Guide us in the straight path’] has been taught and we have been told to pray by saying, ‘O Allah! Guide us to the straight path.’”

Allah the Almighty taught us this prayer and along with teaching us this prayer for seeking guidance, it also contained a promise that He will guide us in the straight path.

The Promised Messiahas further says:

“The straight path of those on whom You have bestowed Your favours. Along with this prayer, the following glad-tidings have been given in the very first verse of Surah al-Baqarah, نیقتملِ ل یدہ ہیف بیر ا بتکلا کِلذ

[This is a perfect Book; there is no doubt in it; it is a guidance for the righteous.]’”

Along with teaching a prayer for seeking guidance, a code of conduct for its attainment has also been presented, saying that if one acts in accordance with this book, they will be guided like the righteous.

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

“In other words, the souls supplicate and the acceptance of that prayer manifests itself simultaneously and the promise of the acceptance of prayer is fulfilled in the form of the revelation of the Holy Quran. On the one hand, there is prayer, and on the other hand, there is its result. This is the favour and grace of God Almighty upon us, but it is unfortunate that the world is unaware and ignorant of it and is being destroyed because it has distanced itself from it.”

Following this, the Promised Messiahas says:

“I say once again that the characteristics of the righteous that have been outlined by God at the beginning of the Holy Quran are counted as ordinary characteristics. However, when a person believes in the Qur’an and makes it their source of guidance, they attain those lofty stations and ranks of the righteous, which have been stated in the clause: نیقتملِ ل یدہ [‘it is a guidance for the righteous.’] Contemplating over this purpose of the Holy Quran grants one such pleasure that it is not possible to put it into words. The reason for this is that because of this, one becomes aware of the special favours of God Almighty and the perfection of the Holy Quran.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, pp. 317-318)

Elaborating on the teachings of the Holy Quran being perfect, the Promised Messiahas says:

“The conditions and needs of the time are also proof of the necessity of the advent of the Holy Prophetsa, and the ultimate outcome of it has been stated in:

“[Today I have perfected (your religion) for you. (Surah al-Ma’idah, Ch.5: V.4)]”

It means that the time and conditions of the world were proof of the advent of the Holy Prophetsa, because there was a need for this at the time. Thus, the advent [of the Holy Prophetsa] and the competition of the teachings were mentioned as follows:

That is, “This day I have perfected [your religion] for you.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Hence, this is the second chapter in the book of prophethood, as it were. ‘Perfection’ does not simply mean that all the chapters were revealed [from God]; rather, it also refers to the perfection of the self and the purification of the heart.”

Though the Holy Quran was revealed and the teachings were given in book form, this is not what is meant by “perfection”. Rather, perfection means that all the prerequisites of purifying one’s soul are contained within it. Those who acted upon it, it [i.e. the Holy Quran] made them into complete beings; it purified the heart and cleansed it.

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“[The Holy Quran transformed man] from an animal-like state into humans, then after this into intelligent and moral humans, and then transformed them into Godfearing humans and purified the soul and elevated them in the perfection and taming of the self.”

The Holy Quran taught humanity the highest stages of becoming civilised and taught the highest stages of purification of the self and elevated them to this rank.

“And in this way, the teachings of the Book of Allah are perfect and complete.”

The Promised Messiahas further says, “To the extent that there is no verity or truth that is not found within the Holy Qur’an. I have said to [Shiv Narayan] Agnihotri many times…”

He was the founder of a religious group of Hindus. He initially was part of a sect and later started his own sect or organisation. Nonetheless, there was much debate happening between him and the Promised Messiahas

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“I said to him many times that tell me any truth that is not present in the Holy Quran, but he was not able to do so. I have been studying the Bible for a long time. The teachings that the Christians are proud of; all such truths are preserved and presented with even more perfection within the Holy Quran, but how unfortunate it is that Muslims do not pay attention to this. They do not even ponder over the Holy Quran, nor is there any awe in their hearts for it. Otherwise, this fact alone is reason enough to be proud of the Quran and there is no comparison with anything else.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Thus, the verse مکل تلمکا مویلا [‘Today I have perfected your Religion for you’] has two aspects to it. Firstly, that it has purified you (it has cleansed man). Secondly, it completed the book. (He revealed the complete Law and code of ethics.) It is said that when this verse was revealed, it was a Friday. A Jewish man said to Hazrat Umarra that he should have celebrated a day of Eid at the revelation of this verse. (It is such a perfect and awe-inspiring verse, that Eid should have been celebrated on that day out of happiness. This is what the Jew said to Hazrat Umarra). Hazrat Umarra said that Friday is already an Eid day. (The verse was revealed on a Friday, so Friday is already Eid), but many people are unaware of this Eid. On the other Eid days, people wear new outfits, but they completely neglect this Eid [the Friday prayer], and they come in dirty and tattered clothing. (Hazrat Umarra is also elucidating the importance of Friday prayer, and how important it is to offer Friday prayer.) He said, ‘In my opinion, this Eid is greater than the other Eid days’ (meaning there should be special care and preparation to offer the Friday prayers. One should not [absolve oneself by] simply offering the Eid prayer every year.) For this Eid, there is Surah al-Jumuah, and it is for this reason that the Eid prayer is shortened. And it was on a Friday, at the time of Asr, that Prophet Adamas was born. And this Eid is also a proof of this age that the first man was born on this Eid, and the completion of the Holy Quran happened on this day also.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, p. 399)

Then, explaining the idea that the Holy Quran is the true judge of Hadith, the Promised Messiahas states:

“Another error that exists among a vast majority of Muslims is that they give precedence to the Hadith over the Holy Quran, which is wrong to do. The Holy Quran possesses a rank of certainty, while the Hadith possess an element of conjecture. (The teaching of the Holy Quran is a definitive teaching, we cannot call the Hadith definitive. Many narrations were collected later on.)

“The Hadith are not a judge over the Holy Quran, rather, it is the Holy Quran that stands as an authority over the Hadith. (It is

the Holy Quran that will pass the verdict.) Nevertheless, the Hadith are an exposition of the Holy Quran (there are many ahadith from which we can find explanations of a verse) and ought to be given their due rank. It is incumbent upon one to believe in a hadith so long as it accords with and does not contradict the Holy Quran. However, if a hadith contradicts the Holy Quran, then such a statement is no hadith at all but is rather a worthless statement. Nevertheless, the Ahadith are important in order to understand the Holy Quran. (But we should also remember that there are many narrations among the Hadith from which verses of the Quran are elucidated. This is why there are some narrations of the early companions; for this reason, we should try to understand it, but we should be cautious that a hadith is not contradictory to the Holy Quran.)

“For the divine commandments revealed in the Holy Quran were first put into practice by the Holy Prophetsa, and then practised by others under his instruction. In this manner, the Holy Prophetsa set an example. If this example had not existed, Islam could never have been understood. Still, the primary source remains the Holy Quran. Some who experience visions learn certain Ahadith directly from the Holy Prophetsa while others do not know about them or are able to confirm the authenticity of a hadith that is already present.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, pp. 363-364)

The Promised Messiahas has also written about himself that he directly heard some ahadith from the Holy Prophetsa himself. (Seeratul Mahdi, Vol. pt. 3, p. 550, narration: 572)

Then, with regards to the eloquence of the Qur’an, the Promised Messiahas states:

“[…] its style is profoundly eloquent, balanced, delicate, soft, and awe-inspiring. Even if a zealous critic and staunch opponent of Islam, who is also well-versed in Arabic writing and composition, were categorically commanded by a ruler having full authority, to produce the like of the Holy Quran in, say, twenty years—which amounts to a lifetime of effort—under the penalty of death, he will fail to do so. Nay, even if he is told to take just a few lines from the Quran and try to match or excel them in such a way that his text should not only comprise all the truths and verities contained in the relevant portion of the Quran, but should also be equally eloquent, even then, in spite of his undying enmity, fear of being disgraced as well as of death, he can never have the power to produce anything like it, even if he were to summon to his aid hundreds of linguists and writers from around the world.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya, Part 3, p. 33 [English Translation])

Despite being in a state of fear and being told by the judge that he has twenty years to produce something equal to the Quran, or even a few verses or lines, he will be incapable of doing so. This is the excellence of the Holy Quran and of its eloquence.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“This is no imaginary supposition or fanciful thought, rather, ever since the Holy Quran was revealed, this challenge has been presented to the world of producing something the like thereof.”

Even today, some enemies of Islam attempt to produce something equal to it. Every day someone causes mischief and

claims they will produce something like it, yet they always fail to get anywhere near the eloquence and articulacy of the Quran, and all that remains are mere claims.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“In respect of its eloquence and articulacy (it is impossible to match it), if the sequence of the verses in Surah al-Fatihah, for example, were altered, the superlative meanings and lofty objectives in the current sequence could never be expressed in any other manner. Take any chapter of the Holy Qur’an, even if it is Surah al-Ikhlas:

دحا ہللا وہ لق

“[Say, ‘He is Allah, the One’]

“The insights and verities that have been expounded in the Holy Quran in such an exquisite and subtle manner cannot be matched by anyone. This too is a miracle of the Quran. I am astonished when certain ignorant people, in their attempt to attack the unparalleled nature of the Holy Quran, assert that the Maqamat-e-Hariri and Sab’ah Mu‘allaqat (these are two books) are matchless and peerless. (They think that these are very lofty books and are matchless.) They do not even understand that the author of Hariri has never claimed that his work is unequalled, and further, even he himself was convinced of the miraculously eloquent nature of the Quran. Such critics disregard the truth and virtue present in the Holy Quran and give preference to mere words. Books of this nature are devoid of truth and wisdom.

“The excellence and grounds for a miracle are that it takes every aspect into consideration. It ought to maintain eloquence and articulacy but preserve truth and wisdom as well. This miracle is specific to the Holy Qur’an alone (i.e., it possesses eloquence, articulacy, truth and wisdom), which shines like the sun and which possesses a miraculous power in every sense.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 81-82 [English translation])

The Promised Messiahas then states:

“In an attempt to challenge the miraculous nature of the Holy Quran in respect of its eloquence and articulacy, Reverend Pfander once presented various passages of Hariri, Abul-Fadl and some English books. This was quite a while ago. Even then, I thought to myself that he was being deceptive. Firstly, none of these writers has ever claimed that their words are unparalleled; in fact, they have always admitted their own inability and praised the Holy Quran. Secondly, in the works of such authors, meaning is always subordinated to the choice of words. They are nothing but words joined together. For the purpose of rhyme, a writer looks for one word to complement the other, and wisdom and meaning are ignored in the text. However, the Holy Qur’an ensures that truth and wisdom are never compromised. (There is truth therein, as well as wisdom. It is not merely a joining of words. Beauty is not produced from this.) The fact of the matter is that to state words of truth and wisdom and also maintain rhyme in such words is a feat that is possible only through divine succour. (The true essence is that there be truth and wisdom, whilst adhering to the correct rhyming pattern. Only then can one understand it is from divine support.) Otherwise, the words of human beings are

like the examples we see in the works of Hariri and others.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 3, pp. 9899, [English Translation])

The Promised Messiahas once further expounded upon this in a gathering. In this gathering, it was mentioned that in Tafsir Ijaz-ul-Masih it is mentioned that God has not given anyone the ability to challenge the Holy Quran. (This exegesis was being discussed). Upon this, the Promised Messiahas stated whilst sitting in this gathering:

“There are two views with regards to the Holy Quran being a miracle. The first is that God Almighty rendered the opponents powerless. In other words, they did not have the ability at the time in order to challenge the Holy Quran. The second view – which is correct, true and authentic, and which we also hold – is that the opponents themselves were powerless in order to offer any challenge. The fact is that their knowledge and intellect had been seized from them. The miracle of the Holy Quran can be understood in light of our exegesis of the Quran. There are thousands of opponents present at this time who are deemed to be great scholars, and even in the public announcements that were issued, such words were used in order to rouse their sense of honour, yet despite this, there was not a single one of them who could challenge this sign.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 2, pp. 217-218)

Thus, we ought to read the literature of the Promised Messiahas in light of this perspective as well, so that we understand the Holy Quran.

On another occasion, the Promised Messiahas states:

“God Almighty has made the Holy Quran a miracle and that is with respect to its extraordinary moral teachings, the principles it sets forth for establishing a civilization, its eloquence and articulacy. There is no one who can challenge this. Likewise, its knowledge of the unseen and prophecies are also a miracle. In this era, no master magician can ever make such a claim. (It is filled with eloquence and articulacy and also contains knowledge of the unseen and prophecies. A magician cannot produce such a thing nor make a claim of this kind.) Similarly, Allah the Almighty has granted a clear distinction to my signs, so that no one can have any excuse [to not accept them] and God Almighty has clearly manifested His signs, which are free of any kind of doubt or misgiving.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 10, p. 172)

Then, in relation to the eloquence of the Holy Quran, the Promised Messiahas states:

“The eloquence and articulacy of human beings is subject to vocabulary and possesses nothing more than rhymes. For example, an Arab has written:

this, it contains all the necessary elements of rhyme, eloquence and articulacy.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p. 104, [English Translation])

Then, on another occasion, whilst expounding upon the beauty of the Quran’s eloquence and articulacy, the Promised Messiahas stated in a gathering:

“All of the signs and miracles that are being manifested here are, in fact, the miracles and signs of the Holy Prophetsa, and likewise, these prophecies are, in fact, the prophecies of the Holy Quran. This is because all these blessings are due to my subservience to the Holy Prophetsa and the teachings of the Holy Quran. At this present time, there is no other religion whose followers and adherents can claim that they can make prophecies or that miracles are demonstrated through it. Thus, in this respect, the miraculous nature of the Holy Quran is far superior to any other scripture.”

The miracles of the Promised Messiahas are in fact owing to the Holy Quran and his subservience to the Holy Prophetsa

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Another aspect of its eloquence and articulacy is that it is of the highest degree and so perfect that even the opponents, who possess a fair mind, have had to acknowledge this fact. The Holy Qur’an has declared:

“[then produce a Chapter like it]

“However, to this day, no one has been able to produce a like thereof. (This is the challenge of the Holy Quran to bring forth any chapter like thereof.) The Arabs spoke with great eloquence and articulacy, and they would hold large gatherings on special occasions and recite their poetry before them, but even they were unable to meet this challenge. Furthermore, the eloquence and articulacy of the Holy Quran do not simply mean that one should focus on its flow of words and ignore the meaning. In fact, just as its words have been placed in an extraordinary sequence, so too do they contain great verities and insights. It is not possible for any human to convey such truths and verities and at the same time also take into consideration its eloquence and articulacy.”

The Promised Messiahas then stated:

“In one place Allah the Almighty states:

ۃمیق بتک اہیف ۃرہطم افحص اولتی

wondrous signs. Take the example of Surah al-Ikhlas; it has mentioned all the various aspects of Tawhid [Unity of God] (i.e., it is a short chapter, yet it contains the entire subject of Tawhid) and rejected every form of shirk [idolatry]. Similarly, take the example of Surah al-Fatihah; how miraculous it is. It is a short chapter that only contains seven verses; however, it contains the gist, essence and exposition of the entire Holy Quran. Furthermore, it mentions the existence of God, His attributes, the need for prayer, the means of its acceptance, the best method of attaining benefit through one’s supplication, how to avoid those paths that can lead one to harm and also the rebuttal of all the false teachings in all the religions of the world. (All of this has been mentioned in this short chapter, Surah al-Fatihah.) If one observes the other scriptures and the followers of other faiths, one will find that they mention the ills and flaws of other religions and level criticism against their teachings. However, what the followers of other religions fail to do is present a superior teaching in place of the teachings that they level criticism against. They may claim to protect one from a particular ill, however, they do not present a superior teaching in its place. This is not found in any religion and this honour belongs to the Holy Quran alone. Where the Holy Quran rejects and highlights the false teachings of other religions, it also presents the true and pure teaching as well.”

(Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, pp. 46-48)

This is such exquisiteness that even the so-called intellectuals cannot even deny it. I have observed on many occasions that when a solution to a particular issue in light of the Holy Quran is presented before nonMuslims, they acknowledge it.

While mentioning the qualities of the Holy Quran, the Promised Messiahas states:

“The Quran is a book that is easy to understand. Some foolish people claim that they cannot understand the Holy Quan, therefore there is no need to pay attention to it as it is very difficult. This is a mistake on their part.”

They have found an excuse that, since it is very difficult, there is no need to pay much attention to it and reading it once is enough. The Promised Messiahas states:

“The Holy Quran has explained the beliefs in such an eloquent manner that it is unmatched and peerless and its arguments leave an impression upon the hearts.”

the Quran carefully and make note of the dos and don’ts discreetly and act upon them, and just by doing this, he will get to please his God. (It is a simple process; one ought to act on all the commands that have been ordained and refrain from those things that have been forbidden. Through this, God will be pleased.) As for the phraseology coined by the philosophers and Sufis [mystics] –they mostly become a cause for people to stumble because they embody ambiguities and intricacies.”

One should not follow the philosophers and the mystics, because they have mentioned certain terminologies and presented the teachings of the Holy Quran in such a difficult manner that it becomes a source for people to stumble. Thus, if people in the world face any difficulties, it is owing to philosophers, mystics, or so-called scholars.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“A venerable person has written – I believe in good faith with some good intention, despite his statement being incorrect – that Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani was not a perfect saint and as his nuzul [descent] was not complete, he only had su‘ood [ascent], (i.e. he refers to his ascent and connection with Allah the Almighty, saying that he did not receive divine revelation, but his prayers were accepted) and that is why he showed many miracles. Had his nuzul been perfect, he would not have shown any miracle. (This is what the person stated.) The extent to which this statement contradicts the Holy Quran is quite obvious. This statement is totally against the Holy Quran and the Hadith. The truth is that Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani was among the perfect servants of God. If one were to criticise him for his miracles, then this criticism would extend to all Prophets.”

However, it should be remembered that some people; some of their followers have mentioned greatly exaggerated accounts of the miracles they demonstrated. These things are wrong, indeed, they demonstrated those miracles that are in line with the law of nature and the Islamic Sharia. These are demonstrated by prophets and that is what they performed as well. The Promised Messiahas states, “All this is a result of people following the erroneous terminologies of the mystics, which have no basis in the Quran, nor the ahadith.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, pp. 8-9, [English Translation])

“This means, ‘I set out for Rome, and set out I did on a camel whose bowels were closed.’ It is obvious that these words at the end have only been employed for the purpose of rhyme. It is a miracle of the Holy Quran, however, that all of its words have been strung like pearls and placed precisely where they belong in such a manner that not a single word can be moved from one place and put somewhere else, or replaced with another word more apt, and despite all

“That is, he recites unto them the pure scriptures, which contain truths and verities. Those who hold expertise in the art of writing know that whilst writing it is very difficult to also be considerate of imparting a holy teaching and high morals. Moreover, it is such an effective and captivating teaching that it removes one’s base morals and instils excellent morals in their place. The condition of the Arabs is not hidden from anyone. They had become an embodiment of all the ills and evils and had been in this deteriorated state for centuries. However, the grace and blessings of the Holy Prophetsa were so powerful that the entire condition of the country was transformed in a period of just 30 years. It was indeed the impact of this teaching.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“If one takes even the shortest of chapters of the Holy Quran, they will find that not only does it contain a high degree of eloquence and articulacy, but it is also filled with unique qualities of its teachings and

As far as matters related to beliefs are concerned, the Holy Quran has clearly expounded upon them. The Promised Messiahas further states:

“The Quran is so eloquent and articulate that even the Bedouins of Arabia, who were completely illiterate, were able to understand it. Therefore, how can people today not understand it?” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 9, p. 228)

They were illiterate people who lived away from the city and were completely ignorant. In fact, they were even worse than humans and were later transformed into godly people. Therefore, if they were able to understand [the Holy Quran] then how is it that these people, a majority of whom are educated, fail to understand it?

The Promised Messiahas says:

“Straightforward, true, and simple logic is what is present in the Holy Quran. There is no complexity in it. It is a straight path that God has taught us. One should study

One sect does not believe in it at all, whereas, on the other hand, another sect exaggerates to such an extent that they exceed all bounds. As for those who do not accept, it is due to the mystics and those who do accept make their own erroneous interpretations. For this reason, we must always deliberate and analyse them in light of the law of nature and sharia, as well as the miracles performed by the prophets. Nobody can demonstrate a miracle greater than that shown by the prophets.

The Holy Quran presents God in His true form. In this regard, the Promised Messiahas states:

“Thank God that the Quran has not presented a god of such imperfect attributes who is neither the owner of souls nor of particles; he cannot give them salvation, nor can he accept the repentance of anyone. According to the Holy Quran, we belong to a God Who is our Creator, our Master, and our Sustainer. He is Most Gracious, He is

Most Merciful, and He is the Master of the Day of Judgement. It is an occasion for the believers to be grateful that He has granted us the Book that reveals His true attributes. This is a great blessing from God Almighty.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 117-118, [English Translation])

God Willing, I shall narrate further extracts on the Promised Messiah’sas wisdom and understanding related to the station and rank of the Holy Quran, and will conclude this for now. May Allah the Almighty enable us to understand these teachings and to act upon them; may He enable us to read and understand the Quran. I will now mention some deceased members, including one who was martyred in Bangladesh and I will lead their funeral prayers in absentia.

As we all know, last Friday, the Jalsa Salana was taking place in Bangladesh when rioters and terrorists attacked. Initially, the police had reassured the organisers that they would maintain order and that nothing would happen, and they said we could go ahead with our Jalsa. However, when the rioters came, the police stood by as mere spectators, to the extent that only after several hours had elapsed and they received orders from their superiors did they take action. However, by then, a lot had already happened. Nonetheless, in this disorder, one of our young brothers, Zahid Hasan Sahib, son of Abu Bakr Sahib of Bangladesh, was martyred:

[Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

The National President, Abdul Awwal Sahib, writes, “Zahid Hasan Sahib was martyred on 3rd March during the Jalsa, which was taking place in Ahmednagar, Panchagarh district, whilst he was on duty at the gate of the premises, owing to an attack by the opponents. At the time of his martyrdom, he was 25 years old.

[Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

The deceased pledged allegiance in 2019. After just three months, he requested to join the Al-Wasiyyat scheme. His family followed the Ahl-e-Hadith. After accepting Ahmadiyyat, the late martyr began preaching to his parents, as a result of which they had the fortune of pledging allegiance in 2020.”

After pledging allegiance, the late martyr would write letters to me regularly. The reason for his conversion was that one of his fellow students, Muhammad Rifat Hussain, who was studying for a BSc in science and technology at the Pundra University of Science [and Technology], Bogra, began preaching to him about Ahmadiyyat. When he understood the truthfulness of Ahmadiyyat after two years of preaching, he pledged allegiance.

Awwal Sahib writes, “Since the start of the Jalsa, the clerics and their accomplices had surrounded the Jalsa premise and began attacking the walls and western gate. Aside from throwing stones, they would use any local weapon they could get their hands on, such as axes, stakes, etc., and they set fire to whatever they could. Khuddam carried out their duties with immense bravery. Nobody was outside [of the premises] except those on duty. Everyone, including the khuddam,

was protecting [the premises] from the inside.” He further says, “1 hour and 45 minutes after the Jalsa began, the opponents managed to break one part of the wall. It was at that time that the khuddam were instructed to ensure the safety of the Jalsa site at all costs. At the time, Zahid Hasan Sahib, the late martyr, was stationed at Gate Number 1. Along with his fellow khuddam, he bravely and quickly made his way to stop the people who had entered and were heading towards the jalsa gah. During this time, he became separated from his fellow khuddam and so the attackers used this opportunity to strike him. They struck him in the back of the head with an axe or some other sharp weapon and dragged him for some distance. They mercilessly and brutally attacked his face, body and other parts, thus proving their inhumanity. The deceased martyr, Zahid Hasan Sahib, was so mercilessly killed that it took two hours to identify him.”

This is the state of these Muslims. They have exceeded all bounds in cruelty and barbarity in the name of Allah and His Messengersa. During times of war, the Holy Prophetsa forbade mutilating even the enemy and disbelievers, yet these people carry out such actions against those who proclaim their belief in Allah and His Messengersa It is Allah alone Who can seize them and reduce them to dust.

“They say that the assailants also snatched his identity card from his chest, but since he was wearing the Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya duty uniform, they were able to identify him. When his body was finally retrieved, his funeral prayer was offered after the Tahajjud and Fajr prayers; thousands of Ahmadis from around the country who had gathered for the Convention participated in the funeral. During the funeral prayer, a condition like no other overcame everyone and everyone was extremely emotional as they wept profusely before God Almighty. According to the law, a post-mortem exam was done on his body, after which an envoy departed in the afternoon with his body in an ambulance towards his ancestral village, where he was buried at 10pm.”

The deceased martyr’s closest friend, Riffat Hussain Sahib, says that he befriended him during their time studying at university. He was naturally very kind; however, he was not very inclined towards worship, but after accepting Ahmadiyyat, he completely changed and he became regular in offering prayers in congregation. He was an extremely humble and meek young man. He says, “I had never seen him speak in a loud tone in five years. His auspiciousness can be gleaned from the fact that a few months after accepting Ahmadiyyat, he had the honour of doing his Wasiyyat.” He then says, “Zahid Hasan, the martyr, was an active member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association. Before his martyrdom, he had been serving as the regional mo‘tamid for Dhaka and Barishal and he was also the zaeem for the Motijheel area.”

The qaid and mohtamim muqami of the same area, Zahoorul Islam Sahib, says, “He was active in the auxiliary work and he was very obedient to his seniors. He would happily fulfil whatever duty he was assigned. He would always be the first to convey the greeting of ‘salaam’ and he would always be smiling.” He says, “About a year or a little more than a year ago, he obtained his BSc

after which he began doing service in a company. If ever he had to leave Dhaka for his service, he would find an opportunity to visit the nearby jamaats. On his personal Facebook account, his profile was the translation of the following verse:

[‘And he who puts his trust in Allah – He is sufficient for him’].”

Sharif Ahmad Sahib, who is a missionary, says, “I was posted in the Tabaria Jamaat when his friend Riffat Hussain brought him as a tabligh contact and he expressed his desire to pledge allegiance. I told him that he should take some more time and investigate thoroughly. He replied, ‘Although I already attest to the truthfulness of this Community, I will do as you say and come back and pledge allegiance later.’ Hence the deceased came back again, or perhaps it was the time after and pledged allegiance.”

The missionary says that after performing the bai‘at, the deceased made a great effort in order to understand Ahmadiyyat and the institution of Khilafat. He acquired knowledge in great depth. As I mentioned earlier, he would also write to me. In his last letter, which he wrote to me was just before leaving for the Jalsa and he mentioned, “We are travelling to the Jalsa by train and the enemy has very dangerous plans. In some places, they have also lit fires. Nevertheless, we shall – God Willing – conduct the Jalsa.” He then expressed his sentiments about his faith. He also expressed his desire that his relatives and members of his village also accept Ahmadiyyat and for his entire village to enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat. This was the letter that he wrote to me.

A khadim mentioned, “The deceased martyr was such a humble worker that whenever someone assigned him some work, he never refused. In a light-hearted manner, I would often say, ‘Brother Zahid, if we continue to work like this, we shall come to an end.’ Upon hearing this he would always laugh. The deceased was also a musi I once asked him why he entered the scheme of Wasiyyat so quickly. Upon this, he said, ‘The Imam Mahdi is true and whatever he said is also true. The Promised Messiahas instructed the members to do Wasiyyat; therefore, I did the Wasiyyat.’ Upon hearing his response, I was left astounded at how strong his belief was in the Promised Messiahas.”

He further states, “Once, the deceased martyr was asked about the primary factor that led to his bai‘at. To this, he said that until now, neither anyone who had claimed to be Imam Mahdi, Messiah, or a prophet had ever succeeded, nor had any community. It was only Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian [who succeeded]. If the Promised Messiahas was not truthful, then his fate would have been like that of the other false claimants.”

As was mentioned earlier, the deceased martyr’s parents are alive and by the grace of Allah the Almighty, they are Ahmadis. The deceased martyr was their only son and was not married yet. He has two sisters, both of whom are married, however, they are nonAhmadi and are still being preached to. May Allah the Almighty grant patience and steadfastness to his parents. As I said, he was their only son and so it is an immense sense of grief for them. One can only overcome this grief through the grace of Allah the

Almighty. May Allah the Almighty also elevate the station of the deceased martyr. Nonetheless, he has acquired a life of eternity in accordance with the instructions of Allah the Almighty. May Allah the Almighty bestow His special favours upon him and may He quickly seize the perpetrators of this cruelty.

The enemy thinks that by making the Jamaat members undergo these trials and through these harsh measures, they will make them lose courage. However, it is the total opposite. I have received letters from the members of the Bangladesh Jamaat and also from the youth, saying that “if further martyrdoms are required, then pray that we are also among them.” Thus, the wretched enemy cannot do any harm to such people. In any case, we ought to pray that Allah the Almighty may protect us from their evil ploys and bestow His mercy and grace upon us. Pay particular attention to prayers these days.

The second funeral I wish to mention is of Kamal Badah Sahib of Algeria, who passed away on 2 February at the age of 57.

[Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

The President of the [local] Community Abdul Haleem Sahib, writes, “The deceased was a true believer and a sincere Ahmadi. He always kept his home open for the Community’s events, prayers, and activities for propagating the message. All Ahmadis attest to the strength of his faith, hospitality, and open-heartedness. The deceased is survived by his wife and three children; two sons who are not Ahmadis and a daughter who is an Ahmadi. His wife, the respected Karima Sahiba, has previously served as the President of the Women’s Auxiliary Organisation.”

Hassan Zamoli Sahib of Algeria says, “Kamal Badah Sahib was a very sincere Ahmadi who rendered great services. Despite facing difficulties from his neighbours, he kept his home open for prayers until the very end. Sometimes, he would even cook food himself for those coming to offer Friday prayers. He would participate in various humanitarian works as well as donate blood. Different events would also be held at his house, as well as the Eid prayers. The deceased was also part of a delegation on behalf of the Community that went to meet the government.”

The deceased used to say, “We are writing the history of this Community due to the difficulties we are facing these days in Algeria.” Now, the deceased himself has become a part of this very history. May Allah the Almighty bestow His forgiveness and mercy.

The next funeral is of Dr Shameem Malik Sahiba, who was the wife of respected Maqsood Ahmad Malik Shaheed, who was martyred at Darul Zikr, Lahore, in 2010. Sometime after her husband’s martyrdom, she moved to Canada, which is where she passed away. The deceased attained her PhD; she taught as a college professor. She continued to climb the ranks until she became the head of the department; however, at the same time, she carried out her responsibilities at home and raised her children in an excellent manner. Without any discrimination, she was hospitable with an open heart to all different types of people.

She tended to the needy and gave sound advice. She always preached the message to non-Ahmadis, including non-Ahmadi relatives. She would study the books of the Promised Messiahas. During her lifetime, a thesis was written about her at Punjab University. Usually, a thesis is written after [someone has passed away] but this one was written during her lifetime. She had a profound passion for education. She taught the Holy Quran to many. She was regular in fasting, offering prayers, and reciting the Holy Qur’an. She was also regular in offering Tahajjud [pre-dawn voluntary prayer]. She always adhered to the tenets of Islam and observed the veil. She was sincere and loyal; she had a special love for Khilafat. The deceased was a musia and is survived by a son and four daughters. She was the sister of Malik Tahir Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jamaat Lahore. May Allah the Almighty grant her forgiveness and mercy and enable her children and progeny to always remain attached to Khilafat and the Jamaat.

The next mention is of Farhad Ahmad, son of Irshad Ahmad Amini Sahib of Germany. He recently passed away at the age of 26.

[Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

The young man was studying at Frankfurt University. He was part of the blessed scheme of Waqf-e-Nau. Prior to his

demise, he had the opportunity to serve the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association at a local and regional level. He was a very virtuous, positive, obedient and sociable young man. He was always ready to serve the Community and its auxiliaries. Just a day before his passing, he spent all day and then went late into the night serving at an event of the Community. The next morning, after offering Fajr [prayer offered right before dawn] in the mosque, he participated in a meeting of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association. After the meeting, he set out to return home. When he reached his car, he began feeling unwell. The missionary saw him from the window of the mission house and went to help him. In the meantime, he was able to sit in his car; however, his health greatly deteriorated. Doctors later confirmed that he had a severe heart attack. The ambulance arrived in a matter of three to four minutes and administered first aid and tried for about 45 minutes, however, God Almighty’s decree prevailed, and he passed away.

Farhad Ahmad was his parents’ only child. May Allah the Almighty grant his parents patience and forbearance, bless him with forgiveness and mercy, and elevate his station.

The next funeral is that of Javed Ahmed Bismil Sahib, who was residing in Canada. He recently passed away at the age of 72 after enduring an extended illness. He served for about 20 to 25 years as the manager of the

Tahrik-e-Jadid grounds. He then also had the opportunity to serve the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association along with other services to the Community. He also had the opportunity to serve as the Amir of District Umarkot. He is survived by his wife, four sons and two daughters.

His son Tahir Ahmed Sahib says, “My father possessed many great qualities. He was a servant of the faith, beneficial to others, had a deep love for Khilafat, and he always strove to establish a unique relationship with Khilafat. He took great care of the poor. Whenever he went back [to Pakistan], since he was a landowner and had property in Sindh, he would take gifts and clothes for his poor farmers which they could use for their weddings.” He says, “He was very hospitable and there would be guests at our home every day whom he would tend to with simplicity. Allah the Almighty also made him very brave. He always kept the pride and honour of the Community at the forefront whenever faced with opposition. He bravely followed the Community in various legal matters. It was due to this that the opponents attacked him twice, however, Allah the Almighty saved him. He worked tirelessly and he always carefully regarded the wealth of the Community. He had a great deal of trust in Allah the Almighty. He was a simple person, and his greatest quality was that in his final illness which extended for a long time, he endured it with great patience and remained content upon the will of Allah the Almighty.”

He says, “A day before his demise, his doctor said that never before had he seen such patience in a person. He never complained. When he was informed that the doctors had deemed him to be incurable, (he was somewhat conscious, he could not speak but he could hear), he took this news very calmly and accepted it.” His son says, “He had a passion for offering Tahajjud and the remembrance of Allah and his first prayer was always for the Khalifa of the time. He would also encourage us to pray as well. He was very perceptive and intelligent. He was extremely grateful and would endure strained and difficult circumstances with a smile. He had a pure heart.” Then, his son writes, “He was an excellent teacher and a kind father. He would fulfil all of our desires and was an excellent confidant. He had a strong character.”

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, his children are well attached to the Community. I have also known him for a long time; the qualities that his son has mentioned and others have also written about him, I have seen for myself that he did indeed possess all of these great qualities. May Allah the Almighty grant him forgiveness and mercy.

(Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 31 March 2023, pp. 2-7, Translated by The Review of Religions)

Editor-in-chief: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Executive editors: Ataul Fatir Tahir, Aqeel Ahmed Kang | Research coordinator: Awwab Saad Hayat | Associate editors: Jalees Ahmad, Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Translations: M Adam Ahmad | Design: Tahmeed Ahmad | © Al Hakam 2023

“Today, it is only Ahmadis who can explain the correct understanding of durood to the world. Therefore, during this Ramadan, where we must pay particular attention to invoking salutations on the Holy Prophetsa, we must try to bring about virtuous changes within ourselves, which is essential for our durood to be accepted.”

(Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Friday Sermon, 30 April 2021; Al Hakam, 28 May 2021, Issue 167, p. 26)