Al Hakam - 19 May 2023

Essential traits of a successful

treasures

On Saturday, 13 May 2023, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa graced the convocation of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK held on its campus in Haslemere.

As the convocation was not able to take place for a few years owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, four classes of Jamia UK were to receive their Shahid degrees from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

Huzooraa arrived at 12:34 BST and upon arrival, invited Ehsan Ahmad Sahib to recite verses 10-13 of Surah az-Zumar of the Holy Quran. Shahzeb Nayyar Sahib presented the Urdu translation. Danish Khuram Sahib was then called to recite an Urdu poem written by the Promised Messiahas

Thereafter, Zaheer Ahmad Khan Sahib, lecturer at Jamia UK, was invited to the stage

to present a report. Zaheer Sahib began by praising Allah for enabling Huzooraa to grace the Jamia UK convocation once again since 2019. He went on to say that this year, 68 Jamia UK students would be receiving their degree certificates from Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, making a total of 199 students,

Humayd bin Abd ar-Rahman narrated, ”I heard Mu‘awiah[ra], while he was delivering a sermon, say, ‘I once heard the Prophetsa proclaim, ‘Whomsoever Allah intends good for, He bestows on them the right understanding of religion. I am merely a distributor and it is Allah Who truly bestows. [As long as] this ummah will steadfastly adhere to Allah’s commandments, they will not be harmed by those who oppose them until the decree of Allah is realised.’’“

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-‘ilm)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Freedom of religion

”Allah the Exalted does everything for the purpose of education and nurturing. As the era of prestige is long-lasting and the strength and prestige of Islam lasted for centuries, with its conquests reaching far and

<< Continued from previous page wide, some foolish individuals have come to believe that Islam was spread by force. However, the teaching of Islam is:

نیدلا یف ہارکا ال ”[‘There should be no compulsion in religion.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.257)]

” To prove the veracity of this matter, that Islam was not spread by force, Allah the Exalted brought forth the ‘Seal of the Caliphs’ [Khatam alKhulafa] and set his task as ‘برحلا عضی’ [i.e., ‘He will abolish war.’], while also establishing ہلک نیدلا یلع ہرھظیِل [‘That He may cause it to prevail over all religions’ (Surah as-Saff, Ch. 61: V. 10)].

” This means that he will establish the dominance of Islam over destructive ideologies through proofs and arguments, and he will put an end to war and disputes. Those who are waiting for a bloody Mahdi or Messiah are gravely mistaken.“ (Al Hakam, Vol. 6, No. 24, 10 July 1902, p. 3)

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who have graduated from this institute to date. A summary of the curricular and extracurricular activities of Jamia students over the past few years was presented. Aside from the UK, students originating from Germany, Norway, Sweden and Belgium were graduating.

Muhammad Raza Saleem who entered Jamia in 2012, but under the decree of God, passed away in 2016 was also a student in one of the classes graduating today. His honorary degree would be received by his father, Muhammad Saleem Zafar Sahib.

Thereafter, Zaheer Sahib announced the names of all graduates, who all received their certificates from Huzooraa as well as the first, second and third position holders in each class.

After reciting  tashahhud,  ta‘awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Huzooraa said that,  alhamdulillah, after an interval of a few years, Jamia Ahmadiyya UK was able to hold its convocation. During this period, while formal events did not take place, individual mulaqats with Jamia UK students also stopped. Due to this, and perhaps owing to the masks all students were wearing while

receiving their awards, Huzooraa was not able to recognise all students and even asked a few of them to pull their masks down to reveal their faces. Nonetheless, it was with God’s grace that after the pandemic, things were almost returning to normal.

Huzooraa then urged all graduates and missionaries to remember that the purpose of entering Jamia Ahmadiyya was not attained by merely graduating; rather, this day should pave the way for all missionaries to see the true purpose of becoming a missionary. While before this, the graduates sought help and guidance from teachers and were facilitated by regular exams, now it was imperative to excel in their personal studies.

Huzooraa said that some missionaries had already been serving in the practical field for a few years. They must all undertake a self-analysis and ponder whether they are meeting Huzoor’saa expectations of them; whether they are excelling in spirituality and knowledge.

Huzooraa addressed the graduates and said that people would now see them as examples for others and so they should always reflect on this.

The purpose of Jamia Ahmadiyya is to introduce students to different subjects and Islamic sciences. A successful missionary is one who continues to reflect on and continues to endeavour to attain the true purpose of being a missionary. All

missionaries must remember that a heavy responsibility is placed on them.

Huzooraa said that he wished to speak to the graduates and missionaries in light of the guidance Hazrat Mirza Bashirud-Deen Mahmood Ahmad, Musleh-eMaudra gave to missionaries in his time, some of whom were Companionsra of the Promised Messiahas. Huzooraa said that this advice had been compiled in book form under the title of ”Zarreen Hidayaat Bara’ey Muballighin“ and that all missionaries should obtain a copy of this book and study it.

In light of the guidance Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra gave to missionaries, Huzooraa said that murabbiyan and muballighin (missionaries) should be selfless as this will help them pave the way for tabligh. Many missionaries in the past acted on this and it helped them tremendously. Huzooraa said that even in the recent past there were missionaries like this and gave the example of Munawwar Ahmad Khursheed Sahib, a former lecturer of Jamia UK who recently passed away. Huzooraa said that he was extremely selfless and this was a trait that helped him establish jamaats in different areas. Thus, it was imperative to be selfless.

Huzooraa further said that a missionary must be brave and courageous in both  tabligh and  tarbiyat. Missionaries should present the true teachings of Islam without worrying about the consequences. At times, people worry about what others might think, especially in the present day, but even in such circumstances, one can use wisdom and be courageous.

A missionary ought to also be compassionate towards one’s own and outside as this also increases affection and helps in tabligh

Missionaries must also obtain secular knowledge alongside their religious knowledge. If one is up to date with current affairs, it has a positive impact and can be extremely effective.

It was also important for missionaries to be mindful of physical cleanliness as well as have a decent and appropriate dress sense. This has a positive effect on others. Some think that perhaps to be successful in  tabligh and  tarbiyat, one must dress and behave the same as others around them but this is not true.

Missionaries must be content with what they have – missionaries are expected to survive on very little. Of course, if one is blessed by Allah in a certain way or if one’s parents wish to help them financially, then that is something different. However, a missionary should never have any expectations and their wives and children should also be inculcated to live within their means. In addition to that, it is imperative for a missionary to ensure the protection of Jamaat’s assets as well. This will also have an impact on others as it will show that they care for the wealth of the Jamaat.

Narcissism should be shunned at all costs and one should refrain from pride and boastfulness. A missionary should not seek praise; however, one should praise God for His blessings and favours. If one is praised by others, then they should immediately recite  istighfar and pray that they may be free of arrogance.

It was also important for missionaries to be regular in prayers, especially the  Tahajjud prayer. Other than in exceptional situations,  Tahajjud should be offered daily. At times, Huzooraa has received complaints that a certain missionary did not open the  salat centre on time or he did not wake up for the Fajr prayer. We must always remember that without prayer, we are nothing and prayer alone is the means for successful and effective tabligh and tarbiyat A missionary must also have administrative skills. All missionaries should familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations of the Jamaat and its proper practises and traditions by studying the sermons and addresses of  Khulafa Missionaries in the field should train those youth for work who have the aptitude to learn these matters.

A missionary should also remember that such people who are heavily influenced by what the world is saying should be explained things in a similar fashion, using their own arguments. For example, nowadays even some non-Muslim people are speaking out against mixed gatherings and even the consumption of alcohol. This can be a helpful tool in tabligh and tarbiyat Huzooraa reiterated that a missionary must increase their religious and secular

How to be a source of delight for Huzoor’s eyes

Lajna Imaillah Italy blessed with a virtual mulaqat

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knowledge as there is no limit to this.

Alongside seeking knowledge, a missionary must be aware of allegations against Islam and the Jamaat and be familiar with the answers – of course, the allegations have always been the same and people have no new arguments left. For this, relevant literature should be consulted and subjects should be studied and a missionary should not stay silent.

As regards  tabligh, everyone should be spoken to in light of their personal beliefs and lifestyles. For example, an atheist must first be told about the existence of God before anything else.

A missionary must also have the quality of making sacrifices for others — which is a step further from mere compassion — as this will draw people closer to them.

Missionaries should search for  tabligh opportunities themselves. Some missionaries struggle in this regard and say that there are no  tabligh opportunities in their respective areas. But through different means, various events and schemes, tabligh opportunities can be made possible. In this regard, social media can be used as an effective tool.

Huzooraa said that our job is only to convey the message far and wide:

”Whoever is pure in nature, will eventually come to us.“

Huzooraa said missionaries have a duty to improve the community’s moral and practical standards, involving the relevant secretaries in their efforts. However, along with using all resources and knowledge to work towards better outcomes, their primary emphasis should be on prayer. If we humbly ask God in this way, blessings will indeed be bestowed upon our endeavours.

In the end, Huzooraa prayed that Allah may bless our every effort and that He may give success to all the graduates. May Allah make all the graduates true helpers of Khilafat and may they truly be servants of the Promised Messiahas

Huzooraa then led everyone in silent prayer and the event came to a close at 13:42 BST.

Thereafter, Huzooraa led everyone in Zuhr and Asr prayers, followed by lunch. Huzooraa departed the Jamia Ahmadiyya UK campus at 15:18 BST.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

On Sunday, 14 May 2023, Lajna Imaillah Italy were blessed with the opportunity of meeting Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, in a virtual mulaqat

After conveying salaam, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa called Aneeka Saba Sahiba to recite a portion of the Holy Quran, followed by its Italian translation presented by Siham Samoodi Sahiba.

Huzooraa then addressed Sadr Lajna Imaillah Italy, who informed him that the members had some questions they wanted to ask. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa graciously accepted the request.

As the first Lajna member came forward to ask her question, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa enquired if she was from Ghana. She clarified that she was from The Gambia. The Lajna member enquired whether, in a marriage, where both spouses prioritise their individual desires over each other’s rights, the upbringing of their children could be negatively affected.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

”Marriage is a bond between husband and wife, so they should both respect each other and also try to respect each other’s sentiments. Both, the husband and the

wife, should live amicably. It is their duty to set their example before their children. If any of the party – either the husband or the wife – is not behaving properly, according to the tradition and the teaching of Islam, then they are not discharging their duty properly as they should.“

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa added:

”So, one should always realise that now their life [responsibilities] is not their own; now there is a responsibility of some other lives on their shoulders, and they have to bring them [their children] up in a way that is according to the teachings of Islam; and if they are not showing respect to each other, they are not following the teachings of Islam, they are not discharging the duties they owe to Allah the Almighty, they are not following the commandment of Allah the Almighty, they are not showing morals, then that means they are going to spoil their future generation.

”Instead of prioritising themselves [over the other], they should solve their problems amicably so that their children could also learn lessons from them that ‘this is how we should behave with each other.’ And they will be brought up in a way that is purely Islamic.

”It is not a matter of prioritising each other; it is a matter of showing respect to each other. So, if husband and wife both realise their duties, then it will never happen that [one will think] ‘I am superior to you, or you are inferior to me,’ or ‘I am superior to you and you are inferior to me.’ No.“

Huzooraa added that in some cultures, ”sometimes men try to suppress their women and impose their orders, but it is not right; it is un-Islamic. Both should discharge their duties according to the teachings of Islam.“

The next question asked was regarding individuals who, although they may be Ahmadis, display a lack of respect towards the Jamaat and its founder. They engage in nonsensical talk and express doubts about the truth of the Jamaat, and their speech gives the impression that they are unsure and indecisive. Furthermore, they lacked the courage to leave the Jamaat. The question raised was whether it was our responsibility to file a complaint against such individuals or leave their matter to Allah.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa responded, ”Hypocrites have existed in every era.“

Even during the time of the Holy Prophetsa there were hypocrites and the prominent leader among them was Abdullah ibn Ubayy ibn Salul. Despite being aware of this, the Holy Prophetsa chose to overlook the matter. Allah informed him about Abdullah ibn Ubayy ibn Salul’s hypocrisy and stated that hypocrites occupy the lowest level of Hell. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa defined a hypocrite as someone who lacks the courage to express their true intentions, someone who says one thing in the presence of Jamaat members or office bearers but, when among like-minded friends, engages in various conversations.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa stated that if such individuals exist and their actions are overlooked by the Jamaat, it is done with the hope that they may reform or receive proper guidance. However, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa emphasised that if it becomes evident that their distorted behaviour is causing disorder and unrest within the Jamaat, then such individuals are subject to expulsion from the Jamaat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa mentioned that if there is someone within the Jamaat who is engaged in inappropriate discussions and the Jamaat is unaware of it, it is the responsibility of individuals, out of their sincerity towards the Jamaat, to bring such matters to the Jamaat’s attention for investigation. If the person persists in such behaviour, then necessary action is taken by the system of the Jamaat. The questioner sought Huzoor’saa perspective on individuals who exhibit cruelty towards women, whether they are their daughters or wives, without showing any mercy.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

” Those who commit injustice are indeed unjust,“ and they will be subject to God’s wrath. While Allah has designated men as protectors and maintainers of women, He has also placed responsibilities on them. Allah has explicitly instructed men to treat women with kindness and gentleness.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa stated that some individuals selectively extract one section from the Holy Quran to support their own views, claiming that God has permitted men to harm their wives physically. However, Huzooraa emphatically declared

that this is not permissible.

Huzooraa then said that the true purport of the verse, as explained by him, has been published in various places in Al Hakam Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that Lajna members could undertake the task of translating these interpretations into Italian and presenting them to concerned individuals.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa remarked that regarding those who exhibit cruelty, injustice, and resort to physical abuse against their wives, the Promised Messiahas has made it clear that they have no connection or relationship with him. Furthermore, Huzooraa reiterated, ” Those who commit injustice are indeed unjust,“ emphasising that if they are not held accountable in this worldly life, they will undoubtedly face punishment from God in the Hereafter.

Next, a Lajna member shared that she had heard that Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, before going to sleep, remembers various Jamaats and different countries around the world. She specifically enquired about Huzoor’saa thoughts when Italy came to mind.

Huzooraa responded by expressing that he would pray that Allah keeps the Jamaat in Italy under His protection, safeguarding them from all difficulties. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa also said that he prays for their peaceful sleep, and early awakening to remember Allah and that they excel at performing good deeds.

Next, a Ghanaian Lanja member asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa if it was permissible for a parent who has converted to Ahmadiyyat, to reach out to members of the Jamaat and request them to offer the funeral prayer for their child who did not identify as an Ahmadi or belong to any specific Islamic sect or religious denomination.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

”If you are an Ahmadi and your child is not an Ahmadi, or if a person accepts Ahmadiyyat and his or her parents are not Ahmadis, then, if you want to offer janazah prayer – if they are Muslims – you yourself can offer their janazah prayer behind an Ahmadi imam, not a non-

Ahmadi imam. You can seek permission from the centre, from the Jamaat, that ‘although my child, or my parents, were not Ahmadi, I feel sympathy for them and I will feel comfortable if I offer their janazah prayer.’ Then you will be permitted to offer the janazah prayer. If they are not Muslims, then, obviously, their funeral will take place according to their tradition or teaching, and the deceased himself would not like that you offer his janazah prayer or her janazah prayer according to the Islamic way.“

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa explained that if a person does not believe in any religion, he is considered an atheist, or someone who does not believe in God. Additionally, if someone worships idols or beings other than Allah, they are regarded as a mushrik, and Allah the Almighty states that prayers for such individuals will not be accepted. However, apart from those who engage in idol worship, one can pray for others and seek Allah’s mercy for them.

A member of Lajna said that she was not a Waqifa-e-Nau, but wanted to seek clarification on whether she could still dedicate her life to serving the Jamaat. Being a married woman, she also enquired about how she could contribute to the Jamaat and be the delight of the Khalifa’s eyes.

Hearing this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

”Masha-Allah! With such lofty aspirations, one can indeed become a source of delight for the Khalifa’s eyes. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said that even before the establishment of the Waqf-eNau scheme, people had already dedicated their lives in order to serve the Jamaat.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa cited his own example, stating, ”When I devoted my life, there was no Waqf-e-Nau scheme in place.“ He further mentioned the numerous women who had devoted their lives to the Jamaat before the Waqf-e-Nau scheme, working in schools in Africa and in various other positions within the Jamaat.

Huzooraa explained that when Lajna members actively engage in various fields within the Jamaat, participate in tabligh activities, adhere to the teachings

of the Promised Messiahas, and acquire knowledge of the Holy Quran, Hadith, and Islam, they are actively serving Islam. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa also mentioned that as a married woman, it is possible to allocate some time for Lajna work and engage in tabligh activities while fulfilling responsibilities at home, including taking care of the children and the husband. By effectively managing their time, they can contribute to the Jamaat while also attending to their household duties.

”When the Khalifa of the time,“ Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained, ”learns about these aspects of your character, it brings delight and he also includes you in his prayers. This is what is meant by ‘being the delight of the eyes.’“

Sakeena Sahiba had the opportunity to put a question to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. Upon recognising her name, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa enquired whether she was from the Ashanti region of Ghana, to which she responded that she was actually from the Eastern region.

She asked Huzooraa whether a boy could wear a necklace. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa smiled and answered:

”If it is for the sake of fashion, or if it is a gold necklace, then one should not. If the necklace is a symbol of any idol worshipper, or if there is a cross at the end of the necklace, then one should not wear [it]. Otherwise, one can just tell them that girls should wear the necklace, not boys; but, we cannot say that if a person wears it, they will not be a Muslim or ‘you are doing something wrong’, but if one is wearing a necklace with a symbol of the cross, then it is wrong.“

Next, someone asked Huzooraa whether it was acceptable to have friends who were not Ahmadis and how she could motivate them to learn more about religion.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that if one does not make friends with nonMuslims, how would they engage in tabligh

”Obviously, you will have to make friends from among non-Muslims and different religions, together. And, if you are a practising Muslim, you are following

the teachings of Islam, you are offering your five daily prayers, and during the discussion, you tell them what the Quran says about women, about your religion, about the rights of women, and about the rights of other fellow beings, then, in this way, you will open the avenues of tabligh and preaching. So, you can make friends with others and then do tabligh. This is how you will spread the message of Islam.“

Next, a Lajna member asked whether parents were accountable to their children, especially when they wronged them. She enquired whether children have the right to ask their parents why they made certain decisions that directly affect them. She mentioned that in some cases, parents choose to separate, and as a result, children become curious about the reasons behind this decision. Should parents be obligated to explain their motives? Furthermore, she emphasised that such a decision directly affects children, leading to a significant impact on their lives.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

”Children are very clever. They already know that ‘there is a conflict between my mother and father.’ So, if one makes any decision to get divorced, then if the children ask why, then one should explain to them that ‘this is the reason.’ There is no harm in telling them. They are sensible and they understand it; but, at the same time, both parents – father and mother – should tell them that ‘although we are going to separate, we are going to get divorced, but it is the commandment of Allah the Almighty, that one should behave well to each of your parents.’“

The questioner then asked whether it was right for a woman to consider herself an equal partner in marriage. Additionally, she asked how one could maintain a good balance in this regard, as in some cases, men assume superiority over women and expect certain tasks to be fulfilled exclusively by women.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, in light of being equal, said:

”Yes, of course. Definitely. Allah the

Almighty says, ‘Both of you [husband and wife] have equal rights.’ I have spoken on this issue in my Lajna addresses on many occasions. Ask your Sadr Lajna to get those passages; they will help you. It is quite right that you are equal partners, as long as your rights are concerned, your freedom is concerned, and your liberty is concerned. Yes, you have equal rights; but, at the same time, Islam has allocated some assignments to both the husband and the wife. The husband is responsible for running the household affairs and he should be the breadbasket of the house. He should earn money. If the woman is working, then the husband should not say, ‘Now that you are working, you should also share the day-to-day expenses of the house as I spend’. No, this is the responsibility of the husband; but the money a woman earns, if she wants to spend the money on the household, on the children, on the utilities, that is at her own discretion.“

In terms of keeping a good balance, Huzooraa said:

”It is the duty of the woman; as the man is responsible for outside work, and meeting the expenses of the house, and meeting the expenses of the children, dayto-day expenses, at the same time the wife’s expenses, the woman is also responsible for keeping her household affairs in line with the teachings of Islam and that is that one respects their husband, when he comes back from work one should prepare food for him, one should look after their children, train their children in the best way, when they come from the school, then they should know that ‘my mother is at home, she will receive me, she will welcome me, and she will prepare food for me, and she will do all those things which are necessary for my upbringing.’ If both realise their duties – the husband has a duty and the wife has a duty – then there should not be any conflict. One’s household affairs will run smoothly and amicably.“

A Lajna member expressed her concern about the current condition of the world and asked how Lajna could

prepare themselves, both individually and collectively, for what is to come.

Huzooraa said, ”One should pray that Allah the Almighty saves you from this situation.“ In light of morality and the situation of the world, Huzooraa emphasised that it is important for Lajna members to maintain a nice and pure environment in their homes. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa added, ”Both, the husband and the wife should set a good example and elevate their standard of worship. They should pray for themselves and their children,“ and teach them about Islamic traditions, manners, morality, and Allah the Almighty’s commandments.

In light of the prevailing war conditions in the world, Huzooraa said, ”Allah knows best what is to come.“ Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa further added that, currently, the world is increasingly moving towards warfare. He emphasised the necessity of encouraging people to live in peace and harmony and to remember Allah. Otherwise, the world is heading towards disaster.

Huzooraa said, ”If war is inevitable and it is Allah’s decision, then at least those who survive will know that ‘there were those who called us to God.’“ Huzooraa said that in such circumstances, the fields of preaching will open up.

While answering a question by Aiman Rehman Sahiba, about the tarbiyat of children, Huzooraa said, that all children should be treated fairly. He said, ” This is the responsibility of parents that they should treat their children with respect; give due respect to each of the children from the very childhood and keep on advising them about the religious teachings.“

Next, when asked if a husband should give his wife money to spend, Huzooraa answered in the affirmative and said, ”Indeed, he should give.“ He further explained that once the money is handed over to the wife, the husband has no right over it.

Fozia Rehman Sahiba expressed that in the present era, influenced by Western

ideas, marriage is often seen as outdated. She mentioned that such thinking has also influenced many, including some Muslims. She asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa how one could address and counter this perspective.

In response, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa stated that such disorders are spread through the influence of Dajjal Those who distance themselves from religion will perceive religious teachings and traditions as backward. Huzooraa mentioned that the lifestyle they adopt will have negative consequences, although they may not recognise them currently. Due to immorality, humanity is heading towards destruction, and eventually, these individuals will come to realise their mistakes, be it 10 or 20 years from now.

Thus, Huzooraa said, it is important to inform them, through the teachings of Islam, that the beliefs and lifestyle they adopt are incorrect and can have harmful consequences for future generations. ”It is our duty to explain and we must continue to do so,“ Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa added.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa explained that God did not create mankind solely for the purpose of indulging in luxury; mankind has a far greater purpose. Huzooraa provided an example of Italy and referred to a news report in which even the Pope acknowledged a birth rate crisis in Italy. It was suggested that in such a scenario, the Italian nation would decline while Asians, Africans, and immigrants would become dominant in the country.

”We are not backward; we are on the right path,“ Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa affirmed. Life is not solely about luxury, indulgence, and sexual relations. There is no need to be fearful, as our religion is based on truth.

Huzooraa then conveyed his salaam and the meeting came to a successful conclusion.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Ahmadis raise money for Huddersfield food bank at King Charles III’s coronation celebration

Sabahat Karim

Missionary, Huddersfield, UK

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Huddersfield North and South collectively organised the King’s coronation celebration at the Baitus Samad Mosque on 6 May 2023.

The event’s preparation began several weeks in advance, with the establishment of an organising committee.

The event started at 11am with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its English translation, followed by a welcome address and introduction to the event by Fatihul Haq Sahib, Secretary of External Affairs, Huddersfield South. This was followed by a presentation delivered by Yousaf Aftab Sahib, outlining some facts about His Majesty King Charles III with a quiz to engage the audience. It was also highlighted why we hold such events, and

Hazrat

In his message, Huzooraa underscores the value of religious freedom, commending King Charles for his suppor of this principle. He expresses hope that the King’s coronation could unite people from diverse nations, cultivating trust and mutual understanding in society and among nations. Additionally, he prays for the King’s protection and well-being, seeking God’s grace and benevolence. He prays for a reign for the King characterised by peace and global prosperity. Huzooraa also emphasises the ongoing necessity of justice, tolerance, and freedom of belief, urging these principles to continue guiding future actions and decisions.

Huzoor’saa message, which resonates with an enduring plea for unity and peace, was appreciated by the guests.

Jason McCartney, MP for Colne Valley and member of the APPG for Jamaat persecution, also made an address. Jim Griffiths, Superintendent of West Yorkshire Police, addressed the audience, and key messages were received from the Archbishop of York and Lord Lieutenant. They all outlined how interfaith communities could achieve lasting peace, starting at the individual to community level, and the importance of attending such events. Mr McCartney stated that he was excited about the work Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya does and advocates the work of the Jamaat locally and nationally. He thanked the Jamaat for its positive contributions to society.

Amir Shehzad Sahib, the president of Huddersfield South Jamaat, brought the event to a close by thanking everyone for attending and participating.

The event was brought to a close with a

du‘a

This was followed by refreshments. Games, a henna stall, and bake sales were organised by Lajna Imaillah, and money was raised for the local food bank. Food was distributed to families that couldn’t attend and also to homeless members as part of the occasion.

There were about 100 people in attendance, ranging from interfaith representatives to local councillors, church representatives, and neighbours. Short interviews were taken with all key dignitaries, and the whole event was video recorded. The event was covered by local and regional media.

Information about the event was posted on social media. Many positive messages were received from guests about the event, including requests to attend future events.

Khalifatul Masih V’saa message to the King was read out.

This Week in History

A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

Arabic revelation:

19 May

19 May 1892: On this day, the Promised Messiahas sent a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira mentioning that he had returned to Qadian and was planning to prepare a publication to clear certain misconceptions. Hazrat Ahmadas also advised him to share a book of Hazrat Shah Waliullahrh, that he had borrowed from a certain Maulvi Sahib. (Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 2, p. 583)

19 May 1955: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Zurich and sent Eid greetings to members of the Jamaat through a telegram:

“Eid Mubarak to all Ahmadis of Pakistan, India, and around the world. I pray for the removal of their worries and problems and for their spiritual progress.” (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 16, p. 515)

19 May 2005: On this day, during his visit to Uganda, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa graced Jalsa Salana Uganda with his presence. This was also Uganda Jamaat’s first Jalsa Salana, in

“It is time to march; again, it is time to march and death is near.”

(Tadhkirah, [English], p. 1034)

20 May 1953: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra introduced a project for compiling and preserving the history of the Jamaat. Huzoorra urged the Jamaat to make a financial sacrifice of 12,000 rupees to bear the expenses of the venture and assigned Mahasha Fazl Hussain Sahib to this task.

Later, on 25 June, this task was handed over to Maulana Dost Muhammad Shahid Sahib, who remained tirelessly occupied in it till his demise. Huzoorra especially oversaw and guided the department. From the start, Huzoorra had instructed that a weekly report be provided. Apart from the days of Huzoor’sra tour of Europe, these reports were being presented to him regularly. He would look at the reports and sometimes make some

(Silsila-e-Ahmadiyya, Part 4, p. 855)

21 - 22 May

21 May 2005: On this day, during his tour of Uganda, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated a mosque in Busia. Upon reaching this city, Huzooraa gave instructions regarding the mosque and the adjoining mission house. Later, Huzooraa went to Mbale to inspect an Ahmadiyya hospital there. (Al Fazl International, 24 June 2005)

22 May 1893: A debate that took place between the Promised Messiahas (representing Islam) and Abdullah Atham (Christianity), started on this day and continued until 5 June 1893. Huzooras had mentioned that he spent those days like a warrior, giving precedence to this historic debate and ignoring everything else, at times even meals. This debate was titled Jange-Muqaddas (The Holy War).

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 1, p. 484)

Calgary during his historic tour of North America. At the airport, Huzooraa was greeted by four members of Alberta’s Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and by Calgary’s Deputy Mayor, Ray Jones. (“World Muslim Leader Arrives in Calgary”, www.pressahmadiyya.com)

23 May

23 May 1970: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh inaugurated the newly-built Mahmood Hall at the London Mission. This building consisted of a hall, offices and three residential flats for missionaries. Huzoorrh had laid the foundation of this building during his previous European tour on 30 July 1967. Its expenses were provided by Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Muhammad Zafrulla Khanra, something that became openly known only after his demise. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 26, p. 75)

which a Khalifatul Masih was present. (Al Fazl International, 24 June 2005)

20 May

20 May 1908: On this day, the Promised Messiahas remained occupied with drafting his last book, Paigham-e-Sulh – A Message of Peace – and received the following

remarks and grant instructions in writing or, at times, verbally. Some instructions would be written by Hazrat Syeda Umm-e-Matin Sahiba, as per Huzoor’sra instructions.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 16, p. 44)

20 May 1989: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh graced a reception held in his honour by the Council of Churches in Zurich.

22 May 1948: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra issued a written message under the title, “Aap Ki Talash Hei” (I Need You). This announcement was made in search of young waqifeen. (“I need you”, Al Hakam, 14 February 2020, Issue 100, p. 6)

22 May 2013: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in

23 May 2015: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the Mansoor Mosque in the German city of Aachen. In the evening, a special reception, attended by more than 210 dignitaries and guests, was held to mark the opening of the mosque. (“New Ahmadiyya Mosque opened in Aachen, Germany by Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community”, www.pressahmadiyya.com)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in Zurich

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh inaugurating Mahmood Hall, London Mission

24 May

24 May 1932: On this day, Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra read out his research paper in Lahore during a session arranged by Sanatana Dharma Hindus. His topic was, “Is religion an obstacle to a nation’s development?” (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 6, p. 88)

24 May 1946: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra commented on the Cabinet Mission’s scheme in regard to the political future of India, and said:

“As far as I have pondered over this scheme, in my view, there are certainly such flaws that it cannot ensure the protection of the Muslims’ rights completely. In other words, considering the current circumstances of the country and the sentiments held by the people towards each other, the rights of the Muslims cannot be completely protected.” (“The deadlock over Interim Government and Constituent Assembly for India: Its background and Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Deen Mahmud Ahmad’sra guidance”, Al Hakam, 15 July 2022, Issue 226, p. 18)

25 May

25 May 1908: On this day, the Promised Messiahas addressed his followers for the last time. Availing the moment, Hazrat Chaudhry Jahan Khanra from Mangat, district Hafizabad, held the hand of the Promised Messiahas and pledged allegiance [bai‘at]. He was the last fortunate person to enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat at the hand of the Promised Messiahas in this way during his life. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 532)

25 May 1941: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a speech about the situation prevailing in Iraq due to World War II. Huzoor’sra analysis was broadcast from Lahore Radio Station along with Delhi and Lucknow radio stations. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 8, p. 227)

25 May 2013: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was visited by the Mayor of Calgary, Naheed Nenshi, and various other dignitaries at the Baitun Nur Mosque. Huzooraa also answered questions during a media conference. (“Calgary Mayor comes to meet Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat”, www. pressahmadiyya.com)

Prophets of Allah

Elisha: A prophet among ‘the best’

”And We did raise among every people a Messenger

Jalees Ahmad

Al Hakam

Al-Yasa‘as ( عسیلا), commonly known or referred to as Elishaas was a noble and great prophet of Allah. He has been mentioned twice, by name, in the Holy Quran.

The Holy Quran remembers him among the ”best“ of the people he was sent to:

”And remember Ishmael and Elisha and Dhul-Kifl; they were all of the best.“

(Surah Sad, Ch.38: V.49)

Son of Shaphat

The Bible states that Elishaas was the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah. He became the successor and disciple of Elijahas. (1 Kings 19:16) Being born in Abelmeholah, a small village located in Galilee, Elishaas was interrupted from his farming duties – ”with twelve yoke of oxen before him“ – when Elijahas, receiving God’s direction, anointed him to be his successor. (Ibid.)

Elishaas, “... did We exalt above the people”

In the Holy Quran, Surah al-An’am, Ch.6: V.87, we read:

”And [We also guided] Ishmael and Elisha and Jonah and Lot; and each one did We exalt above the people.“

As Muslims, it is our belief that prophets of Allah are considered the best of humanity and are honoured by God, our Creator, for their service to humanity. God, in His infinite wisdom and knowledge, elevated Prophet Elisha’sas status and granted him a higher rank and position of honour among the people. This exalted position was due to his righteousness, his devotion to Allah, and his work as a prophet to guide his people towards the truth.

With regards to being ”exalted above the people“, the Five Volume Commentary states:

” The exaltation spoken of here refers only to the people to whom the Prophets, mentioned in the verse, were sent.“ (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 1, p. 714)

Much like Elijahas – and other prophets such as Zachariahas and Jesusas – Elishaas had no worldly power and lived a simple life; however, Allah exalted him and granted him grace.

Under the above-quoted verse, we read in the Five Volume Commentary: ”It has been alleged about them that they coveted power and riches. Of Ishmael[as], we read in the Bible: ‘He will be a wild man: his hand will be against every man, and every man’s hand against him’ (Gen. 16:12). In the Talmud, Ishmael[as] is represented as having followed his father Abraham[as] when the latter took Isaac out for sacrifice, rejoicing at the thought that he would inherit all the lands and herds. Of Elisha[as] it is said that he caused a king, who did not obey him, to be slain so that he might thus gain political power. Jonah[as] was displeased with God, because he was disgraced by the non-fulfilment of his prophecy, which, it is alleged, showed that he sought power for himself. Of Lot[as], it is alleged that he coveted fertile pasturelands and was always quarrelling

with his kinsman, Abraham[as]. Thus all these Prophets have been accused of coveting wealth and power. But the Quran declares all these charges to be false. These Prophets were a group of heavenly people enjoying spiritual communion with God. They had no need to be covetous or be seekers of power; for, as stated in 6:87, God had ‘exalted’ them above the people.“ (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 2, p. 891)

The Promised Messiahas has alluded to the fact that Elishaas, like other Prophets of God, was a bearer of many miracles. On one occasion, while mentioning Prophet Jesusas and how the Christians have erred in taking him to be a divine figure, he stated:

”Most Prophets who appeared prior to him [Jesusas] were greater as far as miracles were concerned, such as Moses[as], Elisha[as] and the Prophet Elijah[as] “ (Noah’s Ark, p. 98)

Elisha’s link to Isaac, son of Abrahamas

According to al-Hasan al-Basri, after Prophet Elisha’sas passing, conflicts arose among his people, leading to a series of events that fueled the growth of sin and tyranny. (Ibn Kathir, Qasas al-Anbiya’ [Urdu], under Prophet Elishaas, p. 548) In light of Elisha’sas lineage, it is said that he was the son of ‘Adi, the son of Ibn Shultam, the son of Aphraem, the son of Josephas, the son of Jacobas, the son of Isaacas, the son of Abrahamas. (Ibid.)

Majlis Ansarullah Raynes

Park celebrates King

Charles III’s coronation

Mansoor Ahmad Vice President Majlis Ansarullah Raynes Park, UK

Majlis Ansarullah Raynes Park organised King Charles III’s coronation celebration at Coniston Close. Muhammad Usama

Sahib, the president of Majlis Ansarullah Raynes Park, led a silent prayer at

the beginning of the celebration. Councillor Joan Henry, mayor of the London borough of Merton, and Stephen Hammond, MP, visited the event and appreciated the celebration arrangements. More than 75 neighbours, community members, the Metropolitan Police Team, and other distinguished guests visited the event.

Did Prophet Muhammad force Safiyya bint Huyayy into marriage after killing her father?

Qamar Zafar London

Introduction

It has been alleged by a YouTube content creator, that – God forbid – the Prophet Muhammadsa fell in awe of the beauty of a war captive named Safiyyara after conquering Khaybar, so much so that despite killing her father three years earlier in the fort of Banu an-Nadir and her husband and other relatives in the conquest of Khaybar, he married her and consummated the marriage against her will. Let’s now see what authentic historical sources have to say about this.

Who was Safiyyara bint Huyayy?

Safiyyara bint Huyayy belonged to a noble and influential family. Her father, Huyayy ibn Akhtab, was the chief of Banu an-Nadir, a Jewish tribe that was expelled from Medina for breaching a treaty with the Muslims. Her father, Huyayy, was killed alongside the Banu Qurayza while he incited them to be treacherous against the Muslims after the Battle of the Ditch, despite having pledged support to the Muslims. (AlWaqidi, al-Maghazi, Beirut: Dar alA‘lami, 1989, Vol. 2, p. 516)

After this, Safiyya married Sallam bin Mishkam from the Banu Qurayza. After that marriage dissolved, she married Kinana ibn ar-Rabi‘ ibn Abi alHuqayq from Banu an-Nadir. The latter two resided in Khaybar after her migration from the exiled fort of Banu an-Nadir to Khaybar. (Ibn Sa‘d, at-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Beirut: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyya, 1990, Vol. 8, p. 95)

Why did the Muslims punish Banu Nadir and attack Khaybar?

Banu an-Nadir: The wrongdoings and treachery of Banu an-Nadir and Banu Qurayza, although not the topic of this research, are important to have some knowledge of, since the father of Safiyya, Huyayy ibn Akhtab, was killed in these events. It is evident that the Jews stabbed the Muslims in the back on multiple occasions despite holding pacts and oaths of allegiance with the Muslims. (See J. A. Morrow’s ”The Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad[sa] with the Christians of the World“ [1971], p. 30-31’.)

As a result of this, Prophet Muhammadsa held the Banu Qurayza and Banu anNadir accountable. The Jews chose the punishment of death for themselves out of their own free will, according to their own book, the Torah. (See Muhammad and the

Rise of Islam, p. 330.)

This punishment was, as recorded in the Old Testament:

”And when the LORD thy God hath delivered it into thine hands, thou shalt smite every male thereof with the edge of the sword. But the women, and the little ones, and the cattle, and all that is in the city, even all the spoil thereof, shalt thou take unto thyself, and thou shalt eat the spoil of thine enemies, which the LORD thy God hath given thee.“ (KJV, Deuteronomy, 20:13-14)

This was despite the three options offered to them by the Muslims, which included exile and mercy. The Jews denied these

Muslims. This was a sufficient reason for the Prophetsa to attack Khaybar soon after the Hudaybiyya Peace Treaty. (Muhammad: His Life based on the Earliest Sources, p. 232, footnote 1 and Muhammad, Prophet of God, pp. 216-218)

The marriage of Safiyyara to the Prophet Muhammadsa

There are lengthy reports about the marriage of Prophet Muhammadsa to Safiyyara. Here we shall record the most detailed ones:

to the hands of the Muslims in warfare, and considering the fact that she was a captive prisoner of war after Khaybar, some may concoct the notion that she had no choice but to marry the Prophet Muhammadsa as she was terrified for her life and felt that the only way of guaranteeing her freedom was to accept her fate and marry Muhammadsa

Now, all of this may have been subject to some further explanation, had it not been for the following accounts:

Ja‘far bin Mahmud bin Muhammad bin Maslama reports:

options, as they took no pride in choosing the ruling of the Quran over the Torah and death was more acceptable for them instead.

In fact, scholars such as Martin Lings, David C. Margoliouth and Daniel C. Peterson have commented that this ruling was not harsh considering the circumstances and was passed according to the Jewish scriptures. (Muhammad: His Life based on the Earliest Sources, p. 232, footnote 1 and Muhammad, Prophet of God, p. 127)

Khaybar: Khaybar was also attacked because the Jews continued their treachery and incited people to engage in warfare against the Muslims. In 4 AH, after the Prophetsa expelled the Banu an-Nadir Jews from Medina because of their betrayals, some of them took refuge in Khaybar. One year later, they went to Mecca and incited the Quraysh against the Prophetsa Thus, Khaybar turned into a centre of conspiracy against the nascent Islamic umma. (Montgomery Watt, Muhammad at Madina, p. 212)

The Jews of Khaybar spent their money to incite neighbouring Arabs, including the strong tribe of Ghatafan, against the

1. It is narrated by Anasra bin Malik: Allah’s Messengersa invaded Khaybar. [...] We conquered Khaybar, took the captives, and collected the booty. Dihya came and said, ‘O Allah’s Prophetsa! Give me a slave girl from the captives.’ The Prophetsa said, ‘Go and take any slave girl.’ He took Safiyyara bint Huyayy. A man came to the Prophetsa and said, ‘O Allah’s Messengersa! You gave Safiyyara bint Huyayy to Dihya and she is the chieftess of the tribes of Qurayza and an-Nadir and she befits none but you.’ So the Prophetsa said, ‘Bring him along with her.’ So Dihya came with her and when the Prophetsa saw her, he said to Dihya, ‘Take any slave girl other than her from the captives.’ Anasra added: The Prophetsa then manumitted her and married her. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 8, Kitab as-Salah, Hadith 371) 2. It is narrated by Anasra bin Malik: We arrived at Khaybar, and when Allah helped His Apostlesa to open the fort, the beauty of Safiyyara bint Huyayy ibn Akhtab whose husband had been killed while she was a bride, was mentioned to Allah’s Apostle. The Prophetsa selected her for himself and set out with her, and when we reached a place called Sidd as-Sahba’, Safiyyara became clean from her menses, and then Allah’s Messengersa married her. Hays (i.e., an Arabian dish) was prepared on a small leather mat. Then the Prophetsa said to me, ”I invite the people around you.“ So that was the marriage banquet of the Prophetsa and Safiyyara. Then we proceeded towards Medina, and I saw the Prophetsa, making for her a kind of cushion with his cloak behind him (on his camel). He then sat beside his camel and put his knee forward for Safiyyara to put her foot on, in order to ride (on the camel). (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab alMaghazi, Hadith 251)

Possible questions arising from the events at Khaybar

Now, considering the fact that Safiyyara had lost her father, husband and other relatives

When Safiyyara came to the Prophetsa, he said to her; ‘Among the Jews, your father did not stop in his enmity towards me until Allah destroyed him.’ She said: ‘O Allah’s Messenger! Indeed, Allah says in His book, ‘No one will take anyone else’s burden’. So the Prophetsa said to her: ‘Make your choice, if you will choose Islam I will select you for myself and if you chose Judaism, I will set you free and send you to your people.’ She said; ‘O Allah’s Messenger, indeed I longed for Islam and testified for you even before you gave me this invitation when I came to you. I have no guardian among the Jews, neither father nor brother and I prefer Islam over disbelief. Allah and His Messenger are dearer to me than the freedom to return to my people.’ (Ibn Sa‘d, at-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 8, p. 97)

Two things are clear from this narration:

1. Safiyyara did not deny the wrongdoings and treachery of her father. In fact, she wanted no share of the burden of his wrongdoings.

2. Prophet Muhammadsa gave her a choice to marry him or be set free and return to her people.

Now, one point of contention here is that although this narration states that she had no ‘guardian’. This should not confuse the reader into believing that she had no relatives left in her tribe.

Even after the fall of Khaybar, Safiyyara maintained good relations with members of her family who were Jews. In fact, she even included one of her Jewish nephews in her inheritance, and some of her Jewish relatives embraced Islam after her demise. (Ibn Sa‘d, at-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 8, pp. 101-102)

Thus, it is clear that although she had relatives, she felt that none of them were suitable as guardians for herself. Therefore, she willingly, after consideration, accepted the proposal of the Holy Prophetsa even though she had the option to return to her own people as a free person.

This perspective gains further strength from the following narrations:

Anasra bin Malik narrates: Allah’s Messengersa had chosen Safiyyara , daughter of Huyayy, for himself and offered her a choice between having her freedom and marrying him, or joining her family; she had chosen for him to free her and to be his wife. (Ahmad bin Hanbal, al-Musnad, Ed. Shu‘aib al-Arna’ut (Beirut: Al-Resalah Publishers, 2001), Hadith 12409)

<< Continued from previous page Riyadh: Dar al-Rayah, 1991, Hadith 3113 and al-Tabarani, al-Mu’jam al-Kabir, Cairo: Maktaba Ibn Taimiyya, 1994, Vol. 24, 67, Hadith 177)

Umm Sinan al-Aslamiyyah reports, ” The Prophetsa came to Safiyyara to emancipate her if she so willed, and she responded, ‘I choose Allah and His Messengersa. So he emancipated her, married her and made her dowry her emancipation.’ The Prophetsa saw a green scar in one of Safiyya’sra eyes. Allah’s Messengersa asked her, ‘What is this scar in your eye?’ She replied, ‘I mentioned before my husband my dream that a moon fell into my lap, upon which he said, ‘Do you long for the King of Yathrib?’’“ (Ibn Sa‘d, at-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 8, al-Maktabah al-Mustafa, 2016, p. 12097)

All the above narrations prove that Hazrat Safiyyara did not have to marry Prophet Muhammadsa to ensure her freedom at all.

Did Prophet Muhammadsa marry Safiyyara out of lust?

In the two narrations mentioned in the beginning (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 371 and Hadith 251), the following facts are very clear:

1. According to the first narration, had the Prophetsa been so awestruck and in lust by the sight of Safiyyara, he would not have initially given Dihya the option to take her rather than saying ‘Take whoever you want’. In fact, even though the Prophet Muhammadsa saw her, he still let Dihya go with her.

2. Safiyyara only came to his attention when her status was mentioned and when she emphatically declared her desire for Islam over disbelief, indicating her

devout ethic to God and faith.

3. This indicates that her marriage to the Prophetsa was more meaningful as it would not only ensure peaceful ties with the Jews in future because of who she was to the Jews, but also because she was a good moral and spiritual example for the Jews by illustrating her love for Islam despite the harsh attitude of other Jews towards Islam.

4. Furthermore, this marriage was conducted in accordance with the exact same principles that the Prophetsa had laid out for all the other Muslims: Abu Hurairahra reported the Prophetsa as saying ”A woman is married for four reasons: for her property, her ranks, her beauty and her religiosity. So marry the one who is religious and prosper.“ (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab an-Nikaht, Hadith 5090)

Why did Safiyyara want to marry Prophet Muhammadsa after everything he did?

In reality, only Safiyyara knew exactly why she married him, as does anyone else when they decide to marry their partner. However, from authentic historical narrations, we can gain some understanding and context behind her decision.

Ibn ‘Umarra reported:

There was a green scar in one of Safiyyara’sra eyes. Allah’s Messengersa asked her, ‘What is this scar in your eye?’ She said, ”I mentioned before my husband my dream that a moon fell into my lap upon which he slapped me and said; ‘Do you long for the King of Yathrib [i.e., the Holy Prophetsa].’“ She said: ‘There was none more hateful to me than Allah’s Messengersa as he had my father and husband killed. The Prophetsa, however, kept on explaining, ‘Safiyyara! Your father instigated the Arabs against me and did such and such.’ He kept doing so till all my harsh feelings for him vanished.’ (Ibn Abi ‘Asim, Abu Bakr, al-Ahad wa-l-Mathani,

From this narration, we can gather two things:

1. Safiyyara felt that it was divine destiny to marry the King of Medina, who subsequently turned out to be the Prophet Muhammadsa, the ruler of Medina at that time.

2. She initially opposed Muslims and Prophet Muhammadsa, however, she eventually understood why the Prophetsa did what he did against the Banu anNadir and Khaybar (i.e., they instigated treachery and stabbed the Muslims in the back).

Conclusion

We have expounded upon the reasons behind why the Prophet Muhammadsa killed Safiyya’sra father from Banu an-Nadir and why he attacked Khaybar. We have also carefully analysed the reports about the marriage of the Prophet Muhammadsa to Safyyara to conclude that there was no compulsion in this marriage and that Safiyyara was aware of and in agreement with the circumstances and outcomes of the opposition between the Muslims and the Jews. Therefore, she would not have had any lasting hatred or enmity for the Prophet of Islamsa, which would result in any valid reason for her marrying the Prophetsa out of terror or coercion. In fact, let us end on the words of Hazrat Safiyyara herself before she married the Prophet Muhammadsa:

”O Allah’s Messengersa, indeed I longed for Islam and testified to your [truth] even before you gave me this invitation when I came to you. I have no guardian among the Jews, neither father nor brother and I prefer Islam over disbelief. Allah and His Messengersa are dearer to me than the freedom of returning to my people.“ (Ibn Sa‘d, at-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 8, p. 120, alMaktabah al-Mustafa, 2016)

Hartlepool community explores Islam at King Charles III’s coronation celebration

Tahir Selby Missionary, UK

The Nasir Mosque in Hartlepool celebrated the King’s coronation with a garden party on 7 May 2023 and around a hundred friends and neighbours joined members of the Jamaat for a lovely day together. The guests were shown inside the mosque, where an exhibition was on display and children played games outside.

The Hartlepool Mail reported:

”Farhan Ali, outreach and external affairs secretary at the mosque said: ‘We have arranged this event today so that people can come in and join with us because it is a great occasion, the King’s Coronation.’

”Residents were also given the opportunity to step inside Hartlepool’s own purpose-built mosque and learn more about Islam as a religion.

”Mr Ali said: ‘We have displayed some banners and the Holy Quran so that people can come in, have a look and see what Islam is, what our community is, how we are helping the local community out and what we do to serve their local community.’

”Also, a podcast for Hartlepool Mail was made of an interview with Mr Farhan Ali.“

Religion

PE Richards, Principal of Islamia College Lahore, meets Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud

A series looking at the high standard of morals of the Promised Messiahas, his Khulafa and the hospitality of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community when receiving visitors

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

On 15 February 1920, the acting principal of Islamia College Lahore, Professor PE Richards, had the opportunity to meet with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, Mirza Bashir-udDeen Mahmood Ahmadra

The meeting took place at the Ahmadiyya Hostel in Lahore. Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Muhammad Zafrulla Khanra served as the interpreter.

Introduction to Professor PE Richards

Professor PE Richards was born in 1875 and started his career as a journalist in Exeter, England. During that period of his life, he became interested in comparative religion and desired to become a preacher.

He contrived to go to Jesus College, Oxford, and after graduating, he joined Manchester College with the intention of becoming a Unitarian Minister. Until 1911, when he came to India, he had pulpits at Halifax and Walsall.

He came to Lahore in 1911 and served as a professor of English at Dyal Singh College. Then, in 1915, he accepted a similar post at the Islamia College, and during the absence of Mr Henry Martin MA – the principal of the Islamia College – he served as the acting principal from early February 1920 until his death on 4 June 1920. (The Civil and Military Gazette, 6 June 1920, p. 4)

Discussion between Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and Mr PE Richards

Mr Richards: What will be the topic of your speech today? [Referring to Huzoor’sra lecture which was scheduled to be delivered at the Bradlaugh Hall, Lahore.]

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra: I intend to narrate whether it is the teachings of Islam or Christianity that could establish peace in the world. In this regard, there are two aspects, firstly, to present a comparison between the teachings of Islam and Christianity, and secondly, to narrate those Islamic principles that can establish peace. We proclaim, and we can prove it as well, that Islam has emerged in this world to establish peace and to teach those principles that could establish peace. In my view, [in regards to the establishment of peace], there are some good principles in Christianity as well, however, Islam has presented the teachings at a greater level.

Mr Richards: I am very pleased to hear that you acknowledge that there are some good principles in Christianity as well.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra: In fact, it is our belief that not only in Christianity but in all religions, there were and are certain features. This was the fact that made them flourish and sustain in the world, otherwise, they would have never sustained. In fact, there is a consensus among most religions on various matters, and the disagreement is found in a few principles. The major disagreement between Islam and

Christianity is that we claim that Islam has presented superior teachings to Christianity, hence, it does not mean that we deny the correct teachings of Christianity as well.

Mr Richards: In our view, all religions are required to strive in unison for peace.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra: This is correct, and it is apparent from our Holy Quran that the major religions of the world will remain until the Day of Judgement. Regardless of what limit is considered for the Day of Reckoning, all religions will surely remain until then. In such circumstances, the peace of the world can only be established if the followers of all religions strive together. However, along with this, we also say that there are two aspects to peace. The first aspect of peace is the one that is attained by mankind through their mutual relations, and the second aspect of peace can be achieved by creating a connection

with God Almighty. Now, the peace that can be achieved through the mutual relations of mankind requires everyone to create a mutual consensus and to put their efforts in unison. However, the second aspect of peace, which is peace of heart, cannot be achieved until mankind fosters a connection with God Almighty, and it is Islam through which a connection with God Almighty can be established. Hence, this peace of heart cannot be attained by anyone other than those who are true followers of Islam.

Mr Richards: Until when will you stay here [in Lahore]?

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra: I might be staying here till Friday.

Mr Richards: The students of your Jamaat who are in college here, are very respectful and obedient.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra: Our teaching for everyone who joins our Jamaat is that wherever they might be, they are required to build such a relationship with everyone they have to work with, which may foster a peaceful atmosphere and no kind of evil be created. Moreover, we particularly teach the children and youth about respect and obedience and specially advise them to respect their teachers.

Mr Richards: The students of your Jamaat have not only shown a good example in the recent events of unrest, but rather, they have always behaved like this.

After this, Mr Richards shook hands with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and the meeting concluded. (Al Fazl, 23 February 1920, p. 2)

Majlis Ansarullah Scotland hosts Eid reception for non-Muslim neighbours

Arshad Mehmood Khan

Scotland

Correspondent

Majlis Ansarullah Scotland hosted its Eid-ulFitr reception on 27 April 2023 at the Baitur Rahman Mosque in Glasgow. The event was attended by over a hundred participants from different backgrounds, faiths, and communities. The event aimed to bring people together to celebrate Eid and promote unity and understanding.

The event included an exhibition of the Holy Quran in different languages and other Islamic literature. It featured speeches from notable speakers, including charities we have supported for many years, politicians, students, delegates of other faiths and the Royal Army.

The event continued with the recitation

of the Holy Quran and its English translation, a welcome address by Tahir Naseem Ahmad Sahib, Regional Nazim of Majlis Ansarullah Scotland, and a slideshow showcasing humanitarian work organised by the majlis, in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Fife, and Dundee. The event also featured a series of short videos covering the introduction of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, and the worldwide humanitarian projects run by Majlis Ansarullah UK, for instance, the Masroor Eye Hospital in Burkina Faso.

Several speakers addressed the audience, including Abdul Ghaffar Abid Sahib Nazim Tabligh of the Scotland Region. He welcomed the guests from the Rotary Club of Scotland and the International Human Rights Commission.

Rt Hon Anne McLaughlin MP for

Glasgow North East said it was an honour to attend the first event organised by Jamaate-Ahmadiyya and was happy to see many people from different backgrounds. ”I have met with Ahmadi members in the Gambia and am very impressed to see your schools and hospitals are in operation and helping change the lives of many Africans.“

Deputy Provost Bob Burgess, North Lanarkshire Council, said, ”I am here to convey to you all ‘Eid Mubarak’ from the North Lanarkshire Council.“

Dr Ken Simpson MBE – CEO of Ronald McDonald House Glasgow, said that ”For the first time in my life, I have gotten a chance to attend any mosque, and I am very impressed by seeing this community’s discipline and happy faces.

Pastor Favour Asante, Greater Glasgow

International Ministry, said that ”I am impressed to see the humanitarian projects that your community is doing worldwide. My regards and best wishes to all of you and Eid Mubarak “

Lt. Col. Alexander Bennett, Lead Chaplain of the Royal British Army, conveyed Eid celebrations to all Muslims and wished to have a peaceful society in Scotland.

Then, a speech was delivered by Fakhar Ahmad Aftab Sahib, the regional missionary. An interesting question-and-answer session was held, followed by a vote of thanks.

The event ended with a silent prayer and a special Eid dinner buffet presented to our esteemed guests. Many guests gave positive feedback and messages on social media and thanked Majlis Ansarullah Scotland for hosting the event.

Coming from every distant track

Ahmadiyya International Football Tournament 2023 held in UK

Mujeeb Ahmed Mirza Missionary, UK

The Majlis-e-Sehat UK had the honour of hosting its first Ahmadiyya International Football Tournament in London, from 11 to 14 May 2023. The tournament’s preparations began as early as January, with countries receiving their invitation letters and the formation of a dedicated management team. This team, led by Mirza Abdul Rasheed Sahib, Sadr Majlis-e-Sehat UK, worked tirelessly to ensure the tournament’s successful execution.

The tournament kicked off on 11 May with an opening ceremony and a special dinner to extend a warm welcome to all participating teams. Presiding over the ceremony was Rafiq Ahmad Hayat Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK. This gathering also served to decide the group formations through a draw. The tournament saw broad representation, with 12 countries and 19 teams participating, culminating in approximately 400 registered players. The names of the teams were as follows:

1. Al Furqan UK

2. Australia

2. Belgium

4. Canada A

5. Canada B

6. Fazle Umar UK

7. France

8. Germany A

9. Germany B

10. Holland

11. Ireland

12. Jamia Canada

13. Jamia Germany

14. Jamia UK

15. PAAMA Stars

16. Spain

17. Sweden

18. UK

19. USA

From Friday to Saturday evening, a total of 30 group matches were conducted, followed by the commencement of the knock-out stage. This stage comprised seven matches, including the finals held on Sunday at Waverly School, adjacent to

Islamabad, UK.

In order to maintain up-to-theminute updates on fixtures and scores, the organisers utilised an online app, ensuring everyone was kept well-informed. On Friday, arrangements were made for all teams to watch the live Friday Sermon of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa and offer Jumuah, with some teams given the opportunity to offer Jumuah behind Huzooraa at Islamabad, UK. The tournament also provided players with the unique opportunity to listen to the address given by Huzooraa at the Jamia Ahmadiyya UK Convocation.

The final match was held on Sunday

afternoon and broadcast live on Majlis-eSehat UK’s YouTube channel, courtesy of MTA International. To date, the match has garnered the attention of 9,000 viewers. The team ”Germany A“ emerged as the victorious winner of the tournament.

One of the most notable highlights of the tournament was the cherished opportunity for all teams to have photographs taken with the beloved Huzooraa, a session that took place after the finals at Islamabad.

The final session took place after Asr prayer at Islamabad, which brought the tournament to a conclusion.

Empowering education: Humanity First Germany builds classroom in Dosso, Niger

Muhammad Jamal

Niger Correspondent

Unfortunately, the world’s most underdeveloped country, Niger, has an education system that suffers from inadequate reception capacities, poor infrastructure and very low enrollment. The explosive growth of the population has led to a large flow of school-age children, causing an extremely high demand for investment in education services, so much so that Niger has found itself unable to cope with this strong demand for schooling in the context of a scarcity of resources.

Classes in straw huts are found throughout the country due to the increasingly high number of children to be educated and the need for proper infrastructure. The children are educated in straw hut classes, sitting on the floor

with four other students and sharing a bench table designed for two students in extremely harsh weather.

Humanity First is working on several humanitarian projects, including providing necessities of life and education around the world.

Humanity First Germany decided to build a proper classroom in Dosso City for the children of Niger who were getting an education in the straw hut classes. On 16 November 2022, the foundation stone was laid by the mayor of Dosso City, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger, and the vice chairman of Humanity First Germany. The regional missionary oversaw the construction of the classroom. The construction work was completed in a short span of three months.

The inauguration of this classroom took place on 28 April 2023. Asad Majeeb Sahib, Amir and missionary-in-charge

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger, alongside the Minister of Education for Niger, Mr Ibrahim Natatu, commenced the formal reception and inaugurated the classroom. The classroom was built in a government school in Niger and replaced a classroom made with straw huts. Humanity First Germany has constructed and gifted this classroom to the government of Niger. The classroom is 63 square metres and can accommodate approximately 45 students.

One could feel the emotions of those innocent children who were happy and heaping praise on Humanity First and Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya by chanting poems with cheerful faces.

The local media was highly impressed with this initiative of Humanity First Germany. Media outlets gave coverage, and similarly, newspapers also covered the event.

The winning team with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

Gambling in modern age: What Islam says about rolling the dice

Jazib Mehmood Jamia Ahmadiyya International Ghana

A while back, an article in The Guardian spoke about how ubiquitous gambling ads were ruining people, and how the author, a footballer himself, was prepared to be paid less if it meant ads about casinos and gambling would no longer be associated with football. (”As a footballer, I am surrounded by gambling ads. This needs to stop“ , www.theguardian.com)

The reason was simple: gambling addiction. It is a well-documented addictive disorder that is known to be similar to substance addictions, especially alcohol. The footballer also has good reasons to take such a stance against ads. According to one study, betting ads prompt about one-third of gamblers to place a bet they would not have otherwise made. (”The association between gambling marketing and unplanned gambling spend: Synthesised findings from two online cross-sectional surveys (2022)“ , Addictive Behaviors, Vol. 135)

But that is not likely to happen.

According to the Gambling Commission in the UK, online football betting raised £1.1 billion in 2022, the largest by far of all sports betting sectors. And that is in the UK alone. The worldwide gambling market is not hurting either. On the contrary, it is projected to grow to $876 billion by 2026.

(Global Gambling Industry, October 2022)

The dangers of gambling

Casino companies prey on the weakness of casino-goers. Casinos are designed to block all outside light to distort one’s sense of time. No clocks are hung either. Alcohol is readily available. There are constant sounds of people ”winning“, creating the illusion that you too can win easily.

Describing the danger of slot machines, one researcher states, ”No other form of gambling manipulates the human mind as ‘beautifully’ as these machines.“ (The New York Times Magazine, 9 May 2004, www. nytimes.com)

Consequently, in some cases, pathological gamblers who go bankrupt even sue casino companies, stating that by extending credit and offering free suites and alcohol, these companies had preyed on those they knew had no control over their habits. (”How Casinos Enable Gambling Addicts“, The Atlantic Magazine, December 2016, www.theatlantic.com)

However, online gambling is even more dangerous than traditional gambling. One of the clearest pieces of evidence for this assertion is that online gamblers have higher rates of gambling addiction compared to traditional gamblers. (”Problem gambling on the Internet: Implications for Internet gambling policy in North America“, New Media & Society (2007), Vol. 9, pp. 520–542)

Consequently, online gambling often leads to the complete destruction of one’s lifestyle. One study even found a direct link between online sports betting and suicide. (”Gambling and suicidality: a review of recent studies“, Psicologia della Salute (2020), Vol. 3, pp. 35–63)

Similarly, a 2019 study by GambleAware also found that some gamblers were five

Given the heavy impact of gambling on our society, it’s highly relevant to discuss what the world’s mainstream religions have to say about gambling. It is somewhat surprising that, although some lines are drawn, they are usually blurry. For example, Catholics suggest that gambling may be permissible if it is fair, and there is no addiction. (See New Catholic Encyclopedia Vol. 6, p. 85 [2nd Edition])

However, one cannot control addiction. As for so-called ‘fair’ gambling, Adam Smith, often called the Father of Modern Economics (and a Presbyterian), writes: ” That the chance of gain is naturally overvalued, we may learn from the universal success of lotteries. The world neither ever saw, nor ever will see a perfectly fair lottery, or one in which the whole gain compensated the whole loss […].“ (An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations, [MetaLibri Digital Libraries, 2007], p. 88)

In Talmudic law, a gambler who had no other trade but lived by gambling was disqualified as a judge and as a witness. The concept of gambling was expressly extended to include betting on animal races and the flights of pigeons and other birds. (New Edition of the Babylonian Talmud [2nd Edition, 1918], Vol. 4, p. 40)

Jewish law therefore forbids professional and compulsive gambling; condemns the occasional act of gambling when indulged in for personal gain; while occasional gambling, where all or part of the winnings go to charity, has never roused condemnation and has even held the approval of some Jewish communities in the past. (Encyclopaedia Judaica Vol. 7, p. 368 [2nd Edition])

Christianity

times more likely to have suicidal thoughts and eight times more likely to try to take their own life.

One recent sobering example is Australia, which desperately needed reform. As of December last year, it had the highest gambling losses per person in the world. In March this year, Al Jazeera declared them the ”world’s worst gamblers“. Suicide is a very real fear, with one article in The Guardian stating that ”lives are at stake“

Many are oblivious to or disconnected from the reality of their losses – or in some cases, too young to understand what is happening. Perhaps Edward Snowden was right when he wrote:

” There is something about peering at life through a window that can ultimately abstract us from our actions and limit any meaningful confrontation with the consequences. “ (Permanent Record - A Memoir of a Reluctant Whistleblower, Pan Macmillan, 2019)

George Washington’s description of gambling

Back in 1783, George Washington, one of the founding fathers of the US, wrote a letter to his nephew, Bushrod Washington, in which he wrote the following about gambling:

” This is a vice, which is productive of every possible evil; equally injurious to the morals and health of its votaries. It is the child of avarice, the brother of iniquity, and the father of mischief. It has been the ruin of many worthy families, the loss of many a man’s honor, and the cause of suicide. […] In a word, few gain by this abominable practice, while thousands are injured.“ (The Writings of George Washington by Jared Sparks, Vol. 8, p. 374)

Gambling and world religions

Hinduism

Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world. Its views on gambling are somewhat ambiguous; there is no inflexible rule that forbids or allows gambling. On the one hand, gambling has long been practised in India and by figures in mythology; on the other hand, religious authorities harshly condemn gambling, and most forms of gambling are illegal in India today. (Gambling and religion: Histories of concord and conflict, Journal of Gambling Issues, Issue 20, pp. 145–166)

Buddhism

Modern Buddhism is a polytheistic religion with many deities. Today, gambling is widespread in many Buddhist countries, such as Thailand. Many believers do not feel that there is a conflict between their religion and gambling; for instance, gambling at Thai funerals is very common – even though it is outlawed in most other settings. (The Funeral Casino: Meditation, Massacre, and Exchange with the Dead in Thailand, pp. 250–251)

Therefore, Buddhism allows gambling to some extent, although it frowns upon addictive gambling. According to some teachings, Buddha mentioned six dangers that go with gambling addiction:

” There are these six dangers attached to gambling: the winner makes enemies, the loser bewails his loss, one wastes one’s present wealth, one’s word is not trusted in the assembly, one is despised by one’s friends and companions, one is not in demand for marriage, because a gambler cannot afford to maintain a wife.“ (The Long Discourses of the Buddha: a Translation of the Digha Nikaya [Wisdom Publications, 1995], p. 463)

Judaism

The Catholic Church is of the opinion that there is no moral impediment to gambling. It is only considered a sin ”when the indulgence in it is inconsistent with duty.“

(New Catholic Encyclopedia Vol. 6, p. 85 [2nd Edition])

Games of chance are not regarded as sinful in themselves, but only when played to excess and when they ”deprive someone of what is necessary to provide for his needs and those of others.“ (The Roman Catholic Catechism, paragraph 2413)

Despite this official position of the Catholic Church, many Catholic bishops are still opposed to gambling. This is possibly so because the Bible also states that greed and love of money are the ”root of all evil.“ (1 Timothy 6:9–10) The greedy are warned that they only ”bring ruin to their households.“ (Proverbs 15:27) The Gospel of Luke clearly states that ”Be on your guard against all kinds of greed.“ (Luke 12:15)

Other Christian sects like Methodists, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints are also generally opposed to gambling.

Islam’s teachings regarding gambling

Islam categorically forbids all kinds of gambling in a way that no other religion does. Specifically, the Holy Quran, the primary source of guidance for Muslims worldwide, states concerning gambling:

concerning wine and the game of hazard. Say: ‘In both there is great sin and also [some] advantages for men; but their sin is greater than their advantage.’“

(Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.220)

”O ye who believe! wine and the game of hazard and idols and divining arrows are only an abomination of Satan’s handiwork. So shun [each one of] them that you may prosper. Satan desires only to create enmity and hatred among you by means of wine and the game of hazard, and to keep you back from the remembrance of Allah and from Prayer.“ (Surah al-Ma’idah, Ch.5:V.91–92)

Apart from such clear injunctions, Muslims are also commanded to view this world and all its attractions as mere distractions. Materialism is also to be shunned, and the real treasure to be sought is not material wealth, but spiritual blessings and favours.

Interestingly, in both of the aforementioned verses, wine and gambling are mentioned together. This is not without reason. Researchers have now reached this very conclusion, stating that gambling, which is particularly and relatively more problematic, ”is more common among people with alcohol use disorders.“

(Pathological Gambling and Alcohol Use Disorder, Alcohol Health and Research World, Vol. 26 Issue 2, pp. 143–150)

Many researchers have also expressed concerns that pathological gambling is much harder to treat when alcohol is involved. (Difficulties in treatment of people with comorbid gambling and substance use disorders, Journal of Substance Use, Vol. 25, Issue 4, pp. 350–356)

Islam’s guidance in the modern age

Despite the clear teachings of the Holy Quran, some major Muslim countries have abandoned their strict laws in favour of gambling. Although Muslim countries do not allow their citizens to gamble in casinos, many Muslim countries house multiple casinos, with sizeable gaming revenues annually.

Muslim countries like Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, and Lebanon, etc., have casinos and foreigners – and wealthy citizens with dual citizenships – regularly gamble by simply showing their other passports.

(”Gambling in the Muslim World“, Global Gaming Business Magazine, July 2019, Vol. 19, Issue 7, https://ggbmagazine.com/article/ gambling-in-the-muslim-world/)

In contrast to Muslims around the world today, Ahmadi Muslims are greatly blessed to have the guidance of the Promised Messiahas and his Successors, which helps them navigate through the complexities of the modern world and live their lives in accordance with Islamic teachings.

For example, in the time of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Munshi Barkat Ali Khanra, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, used to buy lottery tickets before accepting Ahmadiyyat, which later won him a sum of seven and a half thousand rupees.

When he asked the Promised Messiahas about what to do with the money, Huzooras said, ” This money is not permissible for you [to spend]. This is gambling. Do not spend a penny of it on yourself.“

Instead, Huzooras advised Munshi Sahib to give the money away to the needy people around him. Consequently, he gave away all the money to the underprivileged. (Ashabe-Ahmad Vol. 3, pp. 245–246 [2nd Edition])

Naturally, this does not serve as an endorsement for unlawful means of acquiring wealth. Rather, it is important to understand that this sum was already in the possession of Munshi Sahib, procured through the lottery prior to his receipt of the instructions from the Promised Messiahas Otherwise, the Promised Messiahas clearly prohibited acquiring wealth by unlawful means in order to give it as charity. (Malfuzat [2022], Vol. 5, p. 42)

Guidance in the present age

Today, there are many forms of gambling; some are subtle, and others are not so subtle.

For example, many types of games also have some form of gambling attached to them, whether overtly or covertly. In this regard, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, the fifth successor of the Promised Messiahas has offered crystal clear guidance to issues that might otherwise appear muddled to the unqualified eye. Huzooraa states:

”[…] Risking money in games in a manner that would incur a loss of one’s money if one loses that game or one would gain some money in case of winning the game, is called gambling which has been categorically declared haram [forbidden] by Islam.

”Whether the game is played in person, or by way of a lottery, or by risking money online through various apps, it is called gambling in all cases which is prohibited.“

(Al Hakam 14 January 2022, Issue 200, p. 12)

Similarly, some kinds of trades in the stock market today are considered gambling in the eyes of the teachings of Islam. Speaking of how short-selling is also a form of gambling, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa states:

”[…] Among the various trades in the stock market, the short-selling business is in a sense a form of gambling. Therefore, sometimes the short sellers have to suffer huge losses instead of profits, as happened in the case of GameStop’s shares some time ago.

” Thus, in light of the teachings of Islam, it is the duty of a believing trader to ensure that he is neither deceived nor to deceive others, but should achieve financial gains by doing honest and transparent business while ensuring that his Lord is pleased with him.“

(Al Hakam 15 July 2022, Issue 226, p. 8)

Then, ever since the FTX scandal broke, many people might perhaps be wondering about Islam’s views on cryptocurrency. In this case, too, we have the guidance of Huzooraa, wherein he clearly states that, in his opinion, the present volatile nature of the entire industry means that pouring money into this new type of currency is gambling.

(Friday Sermon 6 January 2023; Al Hakam 3 February 2023, Issue 255, p. 17)

Knowing what we know about gambling, and how companies prey on people for profit – often using scientific principles to keep us hooked – not gambling should be a no-brainer.

And yet, it is clear that without the teachings of Islam and, consequently, the guidance of the Promised Messiahas and Mahdi of the age, gambling remains a trap. Only by following the teachings of Islam to the letter can help everyone stay safe from the harms of such often seemingly harmless avenues of quick wealth.

100 Years Ago...

Shuddhi Movement and Lajna Imaillah’s passion for propagation of Islam Ahmadiyyat, 1923

Al Fazl, 23 April & 10 May 1923

Khawaja Ghulam Nabi Ballanwi (1894-1956)

How fortunate are those children who are brought up in the arms of such mothers whose hearts are passionate for the promulgation and preservation of Ahmadiyyat, the True Islam, and in whom the desire to serve Islam is ever-growing. This letter, which is being published below, shows that Ahmadi women are not at all oblivious to their duty but are in fact anxious to somehow soar into the field of tabligh [preaching]. Those jamaats will be blessed with eternal life whose women are watchful of their responsibilities and whose every generation will continue to train the next generation to stay resolute in their true beliefs and fulfil their duties. Ahmadi women must bear in mind that it is their duty to teach their children from the very beginning an unforgettable lesson of devotion, selfsacrifice and service to Islam and to instil in them a never-ending passion [for the service of Islam] so that the angels of God may sing songs of their praise in the heavens. ( Editor, Al Fazl)

An Ahmadi lady’s letter to Hazrat

Khalifatul Masih II

In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful Peace and blessings of Allah be upon His Noble Messengersa My leader, master, and guide!

His Holiness, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra],

With utmost respect, I state that I have read in the newspaper Zamindar that 20 Muslim women have become Hindus. Eighteen of them are from Amritsar district and two women are from Lahore district. I respectfully state that my heart is deeply hurt after reading about this incident. My heart longs to soar towards them at this very moment and desires to preach to them.

If Hazrat Khalifatul Masih considers it appropriate and gives the order, I am ready for tabligh. There is no Ahmadi sister here whom I can take with me. Huzoor[ra] may send a sister with me from Qadian who has a great passion for the service of Islam. I will do as instructed.

Your humble servant, Saeeda, Lahore.

Al Fazl, 10 May 1923

Another Ahmadi lady writes to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II

In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful Peace and blessings of Allah be upon His Noble Messengersa

My master! Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra],

as-salamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu,

I saw the letter of dear Sister Saeeda addressed to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih in the 23 April [1923] issue of Al Fazl. As soon as I read that letter, I became extremely anxious and concerned. Since I was not well at the time, I could not promptly write to Huzoor[ra] However, now I respectfully state that this servant is wholeheartedly ready for the service of Islam. I humbly request that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, the treasure trove of blessings, may grant us a suitable opportunity to vent our heart’s desires so that we can present to our sisters in need the same message that was given to us by the Promised Messiahas. May my soul and body be sacrificed for him.

Just as Huzoor[ra] gave us the opportunity to become worthy of reward by donating to the Berlin Mosque, please grant us a chance to serve Islam in such a way that we never fall behind men. I am envious of men. If I had known the address of Sister Saeeda, I would have immediately written to her to say that I am fully prepared to discharge my duty of tabligh and that I have no less an aching heart in my bosom [to preach]. So, come quickly, and let’s spread the message of Islam after getting permission from our dear Khalifa.

We will be glad if Hazrat Khalifatul Masih grants us permission, but otherwise, my dear sister may immediately agree to my proposal that she should bear the expenses of one missionary, and I will sell my jewellery to cover the expenses of another missionary. In this way, dear sister, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih will send two missionaries to work on behalf of both of us and we may be able to give vent to our passion [for the service of Islam]. But alas, I do not know the address of my dear Sister [Saeeda], so I present this matter to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih.

Wassalam, I am your humblest servant, Mahmuda Khatun Ahmadi, Malerkotla.

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 23 April and 10 May 1923 issues of Al Fazl)

Friday Sermon

Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, Tilford, UK

21 April 2023

The strive to achieve Taqwa

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

Today is the last Friday of Ramadan. The month of Ramadan is now concluding and there are many people who had the intention to make special efforts to offer worship during Ramadan and to bring about a transformation within themselves, but were unable to act in accordance with what they had planned. There are a number of people who write such letters to me, and, today, the last day of Ramadan shall also come to an end after a few hours.

Friday is a blessed day during which there is a special moment for the acceptance of prayers. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Jumuah Bad al-Sa’atu allati fi Yaum al-Jumuati, Hadith 935)

Hence, even if we did not spend our days of Ramadan as we had wished, or as a believer should spend them, then we should make a pledge for the remaining time today and pray that Allah the Almighty overlooks our shortcomings, has mercy on us, and enables us to follow that path in our lives that Allah the Almighty desires of us.

Allah the Almighty is most Gracious; He has not stated that the special moment for the acceptance of prayers on Friday is exclusive to Ramadan, rather this is a general blessing of Fridays. Hence, we ought to make this oath in our prayers today that even after this Ramadan, we will continue to elevate the standard of our righteousness and strive for it; that we will continue to endeavour to attain the nearness of Allah the Almighty and worship Him with sincerity from one Friday to the next. [We should pledge that] we will spend the period between two Fridays in prayers and virtuous deeds, give precedence to faith over the world and that until the following Ramadan, we will continuously try to follow the routine we made in this month – but were unable to follow owing to certain reasons – in order to bring about a pure reformation within ourselves. These are the deeds that develop true righteousness. Furthermore, if we sincerely worship and perform virtuous deeds for the sake of Allah’s pleasure, then for the efforts that we were able to follow through on during this Ramadan, Allah the Almighty, Who is more Gracious and Merciful than anyone else, will

continue to shower us with His blessings.

Thus, what truly matters is righteousness. What truly matters is consistently acting in accordance with the commandments of God Almighty. What truly matters is the fear of God Almighty and seeking His pleasure. If one has developed this and if we have not reverted to immersing ourselves in this materialistic life where we forget to give precedence to faith over the world, then Allah the Almighty will accept the prayers and efforts we made in order to transform ourselves during this Ramadan and He will continue to bless us. Hence, this is a fundamental point that we should always remain mindful of.

Every Ahmadi should remain mindful of acquiring this objective at all times. Moreover, once we tread the path of righteousness in our own lives and seek the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, then we will be setting an example for our children and offspring, which will instil the spirit of offering virtuous deeds from one generation to the next.

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, we have pledged allegiance to the Imam of this age and the ardent devotee of the Holy Prophetsa. The essence of the conditions in our pledge of allegiance is to always be mindful of righteousness. The Promised Messiahas has emphasised this to us in order to bring about such a transformation within our lives that is not limited to a single month every year, or for which the efforts are not limited to one month every year. Indeed, Allah the Almighty has created the conditions whereby a pious environment develops in the month of Ramadan in order to acquire lofty standards of righteousness. However, He has done this so that after every Ramadan, we continue to acquire the subsequent stages of righteousness. He has not done this so that after every Ramadan, we regress back to our lower standards once again.

Hence, as I have mentioned, the Promised Messiahas has been sent to elevate our standards of righteousness and to transform us and he has repeatedly encouraged us to do this. On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas stated:

”I have been sent so that truth and faith may be revived and righteousness may inspire the hearts. This is the ultimate purpose of my advent.“ This was the very reason for which the Promised Messiahas was commissioned. He further said: ”I have been told that heaven will once again draw near to the earth after having become distant.“ (Kitabul-Bariyyah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 13, pp. 293-294 footnote)

These are the matters that we need to always keep in mind. The era of the Promised Messiahas, which is in the form of Khilafat on the precepts of prophethood, is one that will continue till the Day of Judgement in accordance with the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa. And it is the followers of the Promised Messiahas who, whilst remaining firm on the truth, shall safeguard their faith and attain its lofty ranks. However, this cannot be achieved by simply performing virtuous deeds for one month, or simply having the desire to do so, or by praying and having a particular attachment to prayer for just one month or by populating the mosques for the entirety of just one month. In fact, if one has accepted the truth and has pledged their oath of allegiance to the Promised Messiah and Mahdias, then one should make a particular effort to elevate the standard of their faith. When one attains this then they will be counted amongst those who have a special bond with the Promised Messiahas

Those who have understood the purpose of their Bai’at and tried to do justice to it are the ones regarding whom Allah the Almighty stated to the Promised Messiahas:

”I am with you and with the members of your family.“ (Tadhkirah [English], p. 1016)

In order to become one’s beloved, the most basic condition is that one should adhere to what they say and lead their lives in accordance with their will. Allah the Almighty [in this revelation] declares that He shall be with the loved ones of the Promised Messiahas. Thus, when Allah the Almighty Himself becomes the support of an individual, then one no longer has any other need. Fortunate are those amongst us who have attained this standard in their faith, whereby they forever enjoy the support of Allah

the Almighty. The life of one who has Allah the Almighty by their side improves in this world and the next.

Thus, we need to fulfil the objectives of the Promised Messiahas while instilling righteousness within ourselves. However, this can only happen when we remain steadfast in trying to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. In this extract, the Promised Messiahas states that then the heavens shall come closer to the earth. The heavens become close to the earth and we attain the closeness of God Almighty and become the recipients of His grace when we follow the path that the Promised Messiahas has explained to us in light of the Quran and Sunnah [practice of the Holy Prophetsa]. We shall be counted among those fortunate people upon whom Allah the Almighty showers His blessings and whose prayers are heard by God Almighty. It is only when we witness these signs in our own lives that we will have the ability to confidently invite others to accept that if they want to establish a living relationship with God Almighty and strengthen their faith, then they have to accept the Promised Messiahas, who is the true servant of the Holy Prophetsa. However, this can only be possible if we attain the high standards of righteousness and then continually remain established upon them. It is then that we shall witness the signs of Allah the Almighty’s blessings. Thus, those among us who have understood this principle and lead their lives by adopting the high standards of virtue and righteousness, or at least make an effort in this regard, shall witness the signs of Allah the Almighty’s blessings. Each and every one of us can witness these signs if they lead their lives by following the paths of righteousness in accordance with the commandments of Allah the Almighty. What is true righteousness? What are the traits of the one who treads upon the path of righteousness? How does Allah the Almighty treat such a person? In relation to this, the Promised Messiahas states: ” True righteousness and ignorance cannot coexist.“

This is a fundamental principle that a righteous person cannot be ignorant of. A

truly righteous person will be devoted to their worship and also fulfil the rights of their fellow humans. Hence, this is the fundamental point that we must always bear in mind.

The Promised Messiahas then says:

” True righteousness is accompanied by a light, as God the Exalted, has said:

of Allah the Almighty. However, Allah the Almighty helps those who adhere to righteousness.

this, the Promised Messiahas stated:

” That is, O ye who believe, if you remain steadfast in righteousness and hold fast to it for the sake of Allah, with firmness and perseverance, He will distinguish you from others. (The Promised Messiahas has written an explanatory translation. If one remains steadfast in righteousness and holds fast to it for the sake of Allah, then God Almighty will make a distinction between the righteous and others. What will the difference be?)

” That is, you shall be blessed with a light that will accompany you wherever you go. That is to say, this light will illuminate your actions, words, faculties, and senses. Your intellect will be illuminated and there will even be light in the things about which you speculate. There will be light in your eyes, in your ears, in your tongues, in your speech, and in every state of movement and repose. The ways along which you walk will be lit up. In short, all your ways, the ways of your faculties and your senses will be filled with light, and you will walk altogether in light.“

(A’ina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, pp. 177-178)

Thus, this is the standard that a true believer and a righteous person needs to try and attain. Even if the month of Ramadan has passed, we can still try to achieve this. Fortunate will be those among us who attain this rank, whereby Allah the Almighty has complete influence over our words and deeds and our every deed is carried out in order to attain His pleasure. Our every movement and every action would be done to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. When this happens, it is only then that we can partake in the spiritual light of Allah the Almighty. Instead of chasing after the glamour and attractions of this world, our objective shall be solely to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. Thereby fulfilling the objective of the Promised Messiah’sas advent and trying to fulfil our oath. If we do not desire to make this pious change in our lives, nor make any effort in this regard, then our claim [to have accepted the Promised Messiahas] would not be true. Also, the virtuous deeds performed in the month of Ramadan would be of no benefit.

Thus, we ought to constantly analyse ourselves as to whether we are continually striving to attain righteousness, which the Promised Messiahas explained to us in light of the [above mentioned] verse of the Holy Quran. If we are striving to change our lives in accordance with this, then indeed we are ready to challenge Satan. And Allah the Almighty shall also bestow His help in our efforts to challenge Satan and cause every onslaught of his to be unsuccessful and ineffective. In this current age, Satan has surrounded us from all sides and it is not possible to escape from his grip without the help

We should always remember that this era is in particular an era of attacks from Satan; he is attacking with all his ploys, tactics and weapons. They are such dangerous attacks, the likes of which have never been seen before. Thus, in such circumstances, one needs to particularly prostrate before God Almighty. Whether it is TV, social media, or other programmes, or the children’s school and their programmes, Satan has created such a dangerous environment through his deceptive ways that it is impossible to escape without the help of God Almighty.

Presently, the greatest concern is safeguarding our children and future generations from the attacks of Dajjal and Satan. For this, one needs to pay particular attention and every Ahmadi parent needs to make an effort in this regard, as well as the Community’s administration. Every Ahmadi who has reached the age of maturity and possesses understanding should try to attain the highest levels of righteousness while prostrating before Allah the Almighty and seeking help from Him, so that through Allah the Almighty’s help they can challenge the attacks of the Dajjal [Antichrist]. We should not become relaxed after Ramadan and sit comfortably, in fact, we should make a particular effort to increase our Quranic knowledge so that a special environment remains established within our homes. We should safeguard our prayers and pay particular attention to them in order to remain protected from the attacks of Satan and the Dajjal.

On one occasion, while mentioning the ploys and schemes of Satan, the Promised Messiahas stated:

”It should be noted that the Dajjal [Antichrist], which means ‘the one who misleads’, in reality, refers to the one who is the embodiment of Satan. It was written in the earlier scriptures in regard to the Latter Days that many a battle would ensue with Satan during this period, but Satan would eventually be defeated. (This hope has been instilled that adhering to righteousness and standing up in this way, will result in Satan being defeated.)

” Though Satan was subdued during the time of every Prophet, it was only in a virtual sense. It was really destined for the Messiah to truly subdue him. God Almighty has promised victory of such magnitude that He said:

” That is: ‘I will keep your true followers dominant over others till the Day of Judgement.’“

Thus, in order to become a true follower, one must adopt righteousness and act on his teachings. The Promised Messiahas further says:

” Therefore, Satan is battling with full force in these Latter Days, but the final victory will indeed be ours.“ (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 10, pp. 73-74)

God-willing. Allah the Almighty has promised to protect and grant victory to the Promised Messiahas against Satan and Dajjal. The Promised Messiahas received this revelation two or three times, however, those who demonstrate true obedience to him and adhere to his teachings will be the ones who truly benefit from it. In relation to

”It is true that my followers shall remain dominant over my opponents until the Day of Judgement. However, what one ought to ponder over is that not everyone who pledges allegiance at my hands shall be counted amongst my followers. Until they instil the true spirit of obedience within them, they cannot be counted as my followers. To obey means that one should demonstrate complete obedience, as if to say, they have become wholly immersed in their obedience; it is only then that the word ‘to obey’ shall be fulfilled in the true sense. From this, it is evident that God Almighty has decreed to establish a community for me that is completely devoted in their obedience to me and follows me in every aspect.“ (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, p. 299)

Allah the Almighty shall indeed grant a community like this, whether it is us or some others, whether it is now or in the future, or those who came before us, or whether it is just a few of us or a majority from among us, but nonetheless, he shall be granted a community. This is a promise of Allah the Almighty.

These words are such that they shake one to the core. It is imperative that we evaluate ourselves and reflect on our standards of obedience. Are we striving to become the recipients of the prayers offered by the Promised Messiahas for his community and for those who truly accepted him? Are we striving to attain the grace of Allah the Almighty that was promised by God to the Promised Messiahas for his followers? Are we striving to achieve the standard of righteousness that the Promised Messiahas desired of his community’s members? If not, then these few prayers offered during Ramadan will be short-lived. Our worship and weeping for a few days will not make us deserving of the favours promised by Allah the Almighty to the Promised Messiahas

Elaborating further on this, the Promised Messiahas writes in his book, Noah’s Ark;

”Let it be clear that to affirm the covenant of Bai’at with the tongue alone amounts to nothing unless it is practised with full, heartfelt resolve. (True determination and prayer are required for it to be considered complete.) Thus, whosoever fully acts upon my teachings enters that house of mine, concerning which God Almighty has promised in His Word:

رادلا یف نم لک ظفاحا ینا

” That is, ‘I shall protect everyone who is within the four walls of your home.’“ (Noah’s Ark, p. 17)

Thus, in order to safeguard against every trial and calamity, the Promised Messiahas enjoined us to follow his teaching and sincerely strive to come under the refuge of Allah the Almighty. Then you would witness how Allah the Almighty protects you from the onslaughts of Satan and the Dajjal [Antichrist]. In fact, as a result, Allah the Almighty would arm us with the necessary weapons to defeat Satan. Not only will we remain protected, but we will be capable of attacking Satan, thereby perpetually repelling him, safeguarding against the onslaughts of the Dajjal and destroying it.

On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas stated:

”Beware! It (i.e., Satan) won’t die by simply saying that Satan has died with your tongue. You must demonstrate through your

deeds that Satan has died. The death of Satan should be evident in your deeds, not in your words.“ One should not simply proclaim verbally that Satan has died; rather, one’s every action, every deed and every state should exhibit the fact that they are fighting against their Satan. The Promised Messiahas further states:

”It has been promised by God that Satan will die completely in the time of the last Messiah. Though Satan accompanies every person, the Satan of the Holy Prophetsa had become a Muslim [i.e., had submitted to the will of God].“

This is an example that has been established through the Sunnah. If we wish to overcome Satan, then we must tread according to this Sunnah. The Promised Messiahas further states:

”Similarly, God Almighty had promised that Satan would be completely uprooted in this age [of the Promised Messiah]. You already know that Satan runs away from لوح ال [La haul]. But it is not so naive that it would run away merely because of your لوح ال. (It will not be that if one recites هللاب ا ا ةوق ال و لوح ال that Satan will run away.) It would not run away even if لوح ال is recited like that a hundred times . The fact of the matter is that those who are permeated by لوح ال in every particle of their being, and who constantly beseech God Almighty alone for help and assistance, and who continually receive the blessings from Him—are the ones who are saved from Satan. (This should emanate from the heart whilst understanding its meaning. It should not be mere lip service.) And those are the people who will achieve success.“(Malfuzat [English], Vol. 10, pp. 7475)

Then, in one gathering, the Promised Messiahas stated:

”God Almighty has begun the Holy Quran with a prayer and has ended it with a prayer as well. This signifies that man is so weak that without the grace of God, one cannot be cleansed. […]“

The Promised Messiahas mentioned this in one of his gatherings. In a different report, there is another statement wherein it says:

”Do not consider yourself to be pure, because nobody can become pure unless God purifies them.“

Nonetheless, the Promised Messiahas further says:

”[…] And without His help and assistance, one cannot excel in virtue. (If one wishes to excel in piety one requires the help of God Almighty.) In one hadith, it is said that all are dead except for the one who is revived by God, and all are lost except for the one who is guided by God, and all are blind except the one who is granted sight by God. In short, the truth is that the shackle of worldly love remains as a chain wrapped around one’s neck until one is bestowed the grace of God. Only those shed it who are blessed by God, but it should be kept in mind that even the grace of God needs supplication. (If one wishes to attain the grace of God, then one must supplicate for it as well.) Do not imagine that supplication is only the babbling of some words. On the contrary, supplication is a kind of death after which life is gained, as is expressed in a Punjabi couplet:

Meaning one who begs has to die first and one has to die first to be able to beg.

If one is brave enough to accept death, then one can beg. The Promised Messiahas further states:

”Supplication has a magnetic effect. It attracts grace and blessings. What kind of supplication is it when one continually repeats:

”with the tongue while he is preoccupied with the mundane thoughts of how he is going to make such and such a transaction, or such and such a task remains unfinished, or something should have happened that way, or he would do this if the situation changed that way? This is just squandering one’s life. Until one gives precedence to the Word of God and acts in compliance with it, his prayers are merely a waste of time.“

One ought to read the commandments Allah the Almighty has ordained for us in the Holy Quran. We read them in Ramadan and also listened to them in the various lessons. One ought to look at those and act upon them. Then the life one leads will be a fulfilling life. Their lives will become like those upon whom Allah bestowed His grace.

The Promised Messiahas states:

”It is clearly written in the Holy Quran:

”Meaning that when the heart of a person is melted in the course of supplication; and he throws himself down before the Divine threshold with such devotion and sincerity as if he is totally lost in Him; and while abandoning all other thoughts, he begs grace and succour only from Him; and he is able to attain such concentration of mind that a kind of pathos and poignancy is created— then the door of success is flung open […]“

Only those believers succeed whose prayers are filled with fervency and humility. Only when the heart completely melts in this way can the door to success be opened. The blessings and succour of God Almighty arrive when one prays to Allah the Almighty, turning sincerely to Him.

The Promised Messiahas says:

”[…] And thereby the love of the world is cooled off. This is so because two loves cannot coexist in one place. So it is said:

”Meaning, claiming to have a love for God and the world simultaneously is wishful thinking; it is impossible, these two things cannot co-exist, it is sheer insanity.“ The Promised Messiahas further states:

” This is why God says right after it [the above mentioned Quranic verse] that:

نوضرعم وغللا نع مہ نیذلاو

”[And who shun all that is vain]

”Here, ‘vain’ implies the world. Once Man starts to experience pathos and poignancy in his Prayers, then the love of this world is cooled off in his heart. It does not mean that he then quits his job, farming, or trade, etc. He starts to shun those mundane activities that involve deceit and distract him from God.“

Such a person avoids those worldly actions that are against the commandments of Allah the Almighty.

Explaining this point further, the

Promised Messiahas mentioned in another gathering:

”Allah the Almighty states:

هللا

”Meaning that: There are those of Our servants who do not forget Me even for a moment in their big business enterprises. One who has a relationship with God is not called a worldly person. A worldly person is one who does not have God in his mind.“

Describing the attributes of the servants of God, the Promised Messiahas states:

” The result of crying, beseeching, begging, and showing humility before God is that for such a person, the love of his faith becomes his priority over everything else, such as the love of the world, greed, covetousness, luxury, and opulence. (This is the definition of giving precedence to one’s faith over worldly pursuits.) This is because, as a matter of principle, one virtuous deed attracts the next, and one sinful act incites the next. When they show pathos and humility in their Prayers, it leads them to instinctively shun vanity, and they escape this foul world. The love of this world is cooled off and the love of God is aroused within them.“ (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 10, pp. 75-78 with footnote)

Their prayers incline them towards righteousness. Despite having worldly responsibilities, those do not become their main objective, as I mentioned in a previous sermon while explaining هللا الا ہلا ال. Their purpose, desire and beloved is Allah the Almighty.

This is the standard we must achieve in order to eliminate our Satan. If we recite لا حول to ward off Satan, then at every moment, it should be firmly engrained in our minds that God Almighty is the Master of all ability and power. So much as a leaf cannot fall without the command of Allah the Almighty. Most of us will say that this is our belief, and we accept this, but when the time comes to put this belief into practice, other fears, worldly concerns, loves and desires prevail over the love for Allah the Almighty.

Therefore, true faith in Allah the Almighty and true worship of Allah the Almighty should impact both our physical conditions and our souls. When this becomes our standard of worship, then our apparent and fundamental morals will also progress to new heights. The hearts, minds and spirits become purified. By coming under the protection of Allah the Almighty, one becomes safeguarded against the various attacks and trickery of Satan. One achieves those levels of worship which cannot be infiltrated by anyone, aside from Allah. Along with doing justice in offering prayers and worship, we should bear in mind that it has been mentioned in a hadith that prayer is the essence of worship. (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 7, p. 367)

When we strive to achieve this essence, we will become those who do justice by offering prayer and worship. We will become those who attain nearness to Allah the Almighty. We will become those who bring about a revolution in our souls and our physical beings; otherwise, mere physical prayer renders no benefit. There are countless people who offer prayers and go to the mosque to worship but then

exceed all bounds of committing injustices and cruelties. These terrorist organisations and so-called clerics commit every sort of injustice in the name of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa. These people have destroyed the peace of the world. They are crueller than the worldly people who commit injustices for worldly purposes. Their injustices are for worldly pursuits, whereas these people commit injustices in the name of the Most Gracious and Most Merciful God and the Messengersa of God, who was a mercy for all peoples. Their evil example should propel Ahmadis to establish examples of Islamic teachings at the highest level. Our prayers, worship and supplications should be to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. If we achieve this purpose, then we will have honoured our oath of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas and will also have reaped the blessings of Ramadan. With regards to what our prayers should be like and how we can do justice to offering our prayers, the Promised Messiahas states:

” Thus, it should be remembered that salat is the very thing that helps ease all difficulties and wards off all calamities. But this salat does not mean the salat that common people offer as a ritual. Rather, it is that salat in which a person’s heart becomes tender while prostrating at the threshold of God, so much so that it becomes captivated as if the heart is melting. Moreover, it should also be understood that salat is to be guarded not because God is in need of it (our prayers and the safeguarding of our prayers is not because God is in need of our prayers). God has no need for our salat. He is:

”That is, He is not in need of anything. This means that Man is the one who needs salat. It is axiomatic that man desires good for himself (the truth of the matter is that man desires good for himself), and this is why he seeks help from God (a person seeks help from God for his own betterment). Establishing a bond with God means obtaining real goodness and virtue. If the entire world turns against such a person and seeks his destruction, it can cause no harm to him because God would destroy tens of millions for his sake if He needed to. God destroys millions in exchange for that single individual. Remember, salat is something that causes worldly and spiritual affairs to be set right (provided one offers prayers solely for Allah the Almighty and fulfils the rights owed to worship), but most who pray are cursed by their salat “ (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 10, pp. 80-81)

May Allah the Almighty enable us to fulfil the rights owed to prayer. May the standard of prayers never result in Allah the Almighty’s displeasure. May we become recipients of the favours of Allah the Almighty. May we build a relationship with Allah the Almighty, thereby partaking in the promises vouchsafed by Allah the Almighty to the Promised Messiahas. May we inculcate the habit of worship in our children such that it will guarantee not only their salvation, but the salvation of generations to come. When this is achieved, then, as the Promised Messiahas has stated, no deceit in the world or Satanic attack will be able to halt our progress. Even if the world makes thousands of plans to ruin

Translations:

and destroy us, it will not be able to cause us any harm. In fact, as the Promised Messiahas has stated, Allah the Almighty could destroy millions of people for the sake of His servants. Thus, we must strive to attain the love of Allah the Almighty and His pleasure, and truly elevate the standards of our worship. The Dajjal will certainly be destroyed in this era. This is a promise made by Allah the Almighty to the Promised Messiahas, and there is no doubt about it. It would be our good fortune if we, by raising our standards of worship and improving our conditions, become a part of those who fulfil the due rights of being part of the community of the Promised Messiahas. One method prescribed by the Promised Messiahas to duly fulfil this right is to demonstrate the utmost fervency and humility and to weep when offering supplications. In other words, to weep and express complete anguish and through humility, God Almighty will enable one to achieve this.

Thus, one should strive to achieve this rank. And how can one go about doing this? The Promised Messiahas states:

”None of your days or nights-indeed not even a single moment of your life-should be without supplication.“ (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 10, p. 82)

Thus, when we achieve this state, we will become recipients of the grace of Allah the Almighty, and every onslaught of Satan and the Dajjal [Antichrist] will be rendered futile and ineffective. May Allah the Almighty enable us to follow His teachings and those of the Holy Prophetsa, and spend our lives in accordance with the desires of the Promised Messiahas, thereby fulfilling the right of our pledge of allegiance. May the pleasure of Allah the Almighty be our sole purpose. May we pledge never to rest until we are able to bring about a pure transformation within ourselves, such that our conditions conform to the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. May we never allow Satan to overcome us or our children and progeny. May we strive for this and endeavour to take all the measures that Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophetsa have taught us in order to achieve this. May we also strive to rid the world of Satan and the Dajjal. May Allah the Almighty enable us to do so.

Pray for the Ahmadis in Pakistan that Allah the Almighty may protect them from the evil ploys of the opponents and may He turn their evil ploys back onto them. The Ahmadis residing in Pakistan should pray for themselves with great fervency and anguish. It should not be limited to just three or four days or a week. In fact, one ought to pray continuously and pledge to transform their lives in accordance with the pleasure of God Almighty. Pray for the Ahmadis in Burkina Faso, Bangladesh and Algeria and for the Ahmadis living in every country of the world. May Allah the Almighty protect every Ahmadi from the evil ploys of the opponents. May He increase the faith and conviction of every Ahmadi. May Allah the Almighty enable us to make a pious transformation within ourselves and also grant us the opportunity to pray and may He accept the prayers as well.

(Official Urdu transcript published in Daily Al Fazl International, 12 May 2023, pp. 2-7. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

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