Al Hakam - 14 August 2020

Where stars descend

100 Years Ago...

Responding to Allegations

Chapter 5 (Multidimensional vision)

An anecdote of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, Ahmadi missionary of USA

How did Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas revive Islam?

Part I Page 6

A

“100,000 Ahmadi Cycles” – Achieving a challenge

Part III (Belief in divine books)

Page 8

Page 12

Page 15

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 14 August 2020 | Issue CXXVI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Blessings of Allah since Jalsa UK 2019: Huzoor narrates God’s bounties upon the Ahmadiyya Jamaat

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

Prayer when entering and leaving mosques Hazrat Fatimara, the daughter of the Holy Prophetsa, said: “Whenever the Messenger of Allah entered the mosque, he would say: ّٰ ّٰ ْ ُ َ َ َ ُ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ ْ �ْ ِ � �ْ ِ�‫ول ا�� ِ� ا�� ُ� َّﻢ اﻏ‬ ِ ‫�ِس ِﻢ ا�� ِ� ُوالسلا ْم �لی ر َس‬ َ َ ‫ذﻧ ُ ْو� ْ� َواﻓ َﺘ ْ� � ْ� أبْ َو‬ ‫اب َر ْح َم ِﺘﻚ‬ ِ ِ “‘In the name of Allah; peace be on the Messenger of Allah. O my Lord, forgive me my sins and open the gates of Thy mercy to me.’

“When he would leave the mosque he would say: ّٰ ّٰ َ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ ْ ْ �ْ ِ � �ْ ِ�‫ول ا�� ِ� ا�� ُ� َّﻢ اﻏ‬ ‫السلا ُم َ�لی َر َُس‬ ‫�ِس ِﻢ ا�� ِ� و‬ ِ َ ْ َ َ َْ ْ ْ َ ْ َ ْ ُْ​ُ ‫ذﻧو�� واﻓﺘ� �ِ� أبواب ﻓﻀلِﻚ‬ “‘In the name of Allah; peace be upon the Messenger of Allah. Forgive me my sins, my Lord and open the gates of Thy grace to me.’”

(Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitab al-Masajid wal-Jamaat)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Remember the Hereafter

Summary of the report on progress of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in the past year delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa on Friday, 7 August and Sunday, 9 August 2020 Whilst delivering his Friday Sermon on 7 August 2020, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand, said that while it was the weekend of Jalsa Salana UK 2020, Jalsa is not taking place this year due to the current

pandemic. Although this was the case, MTA International has attempted to fill this void with various programmes throughout the three days.

Nonetheless, Huzooraa said that one of the features of Jalsa Salana UK every

year is that the Jamaat is informed about Allah’s blessings upon the Ahmadiyya Community in the past year and therefore, Huzooraa would narrate progress of the Jamaat since the last Jalsa Salana until now.

Continued on page 2

It is incumbent for people to remember the Hereafter. One ought to be fearful before punishment arrives. � �‫�د آ� � �� �رك �ه �ا‬ “A person who keeps their sights set on the Hereafter is fortunate.”

Observe how the people of Lotas and others faced their end. It is essential that even if a person is hardhearted, they ought to admonish it and teach it to be humble and meek.

This is necessary for our community Continued on page 5

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Huzoor said that usually he was not able to cover the entire report even during Jalsa Salana and so, while he would present part of the report on Friday, he would commence with the report of Allah’s blessings in the past year on Sunday evening, when Huzooraa would be addressing the Jamaat live via MTA from Islamabad. aa

Report presented on Friday Thus, in his Friday Sermon, aa Huzoor announced that – apart from Pakistan – 288 new Jamaats had been established around the world and the seeds of Ahmadiyyat had been sown in 1,040 new places. In terms of establishing new Jamaats in various areas, Sierra Leone was at the top of the list where 40 new Jamaats had been established; this was followed by Congo-Kinshasa where 31 Jamaats were established, followed by Ghana where 23 new Jamaat were formed. Huzooraa listed a plethora of other countries around the world where new Jamaats had been established.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that a local muallim, Hamid Ahmad Sahib from Congo Kinshasa explained that when a local Sunni Imam of a village, Usman Sahib, listened to a programme by the Jamaat on the radio, he came to the mosque and bombarded the Jamaat with questions.

He was given convincing answers, the Swahili translation of the Quran by the Jamaat and other Jamaat books to study.

After reading these books, by the grace of Allah, he performed Bai‘at and promised he would give this message to his village.

Huzooraa said that by the grace of Allah, through this imam’s tabligh, a Jamaat consisting of 20 members from this village had been formed.

Amir Jamaat Gambia wrote that during the month of Ramadan, a local muallim and the sadr of a region planned a tabligh event. When they went to a village for this programme, an elder of that village said that he was very happy with their arrival and the tabligh programme. The elder explained that he was happy because this was the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa. He said that the Holy Prophetsa also migrated from Mecca to Medina so that Islam could spread and in the same way, the Jamaat is travelling from place to place in an effort to preach the message of Islam. The gentleman accepted the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat and the Promised Messiahas. By the grace of Allah, two families – consisting of 19 people – accepted Ahmadiyyat in this area.

Amir Jamaat Liberia said that a missionary delivered a Friday Sermon in which he spoke of the importance of Tahrik-e-Jadid. After the Friday Sermon, while Ahmadis were writing their names for chanda promises, a gentleman came forward and gave 50 Liberian dollars; he was a non-Ahmadi Muslim. Later the Jamaat went to see him and thanked him for his donation. While there, the locals, including the imam of the area, listened to the message of the Jamaat and were greatly affected by it. The imam said that he desired to gather a few other villages for the Jamaat to give their message to them. After giving the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat

and its purpose for a whole day to the three villages, all three imams, along with their villages, accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat.

A missionary of the Jamaat from the Philippines explained that a specific region was infamous for extremist clerics; the Tablighi Jamaat also has a strong footing in the area. A muallim’s family members live in this area. The muallim gave the message of the Jamaat to his family members, which they took positively. As a result, a team of muallims and dai‘een(preachers) were sent to this area for a week to preach the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat. As always, they saw opposition from the Muslims, but despite this, 23 people converted to Ahmadiyyat.

Amir Jamaat Senegal wrote that through local muallims and missionaries, an hour-radio programme and an hour of Huzoor’saa sermon is broadcast in 10 places in a region of Senegal. People call in and ask questions during these programmes.

As a result of these radio programmes, this year, the seed of Ahmadiyyat has been sown in 20 villages of the region.

The missionary of Kababir explained that by the grace of Allah, for some years, Ahmadis have lived in southern Palestine but were not organised as a Jamaat and now have been established as a Jamaat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa narrated various faith-inspiring incidents about the construction of mosques around the world. Huzooraa also announced that 217 mosques had been established across four continents. Of these, 124 were newly built, while 93 existing mosques were acquired.

Some of the countries Huzooraa mentioned,

in which these mosques were established, included the UK, France, Germany, Nigeria, Indonesia, India, Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Zambia, etc.

In Norway, the owners of a church that opposed the Jamaat’s construction of a mosque ended up selling their church building to the Jamaat. By the grace of Allah, this church has now been converted into a mosque.

In Tanzania, a mosque that was being built by the Jamaat was attacked and building materials were taken. After the police allowed the reconstruction of the mosque after a brief interval, non-Ahmadi Muslims of the village in which the mosque was being built said how the mosque was a source of blessings for them and they prevented any further attacks. This incident was a means of tabligh for the Jamaat. At the opening of the mosque, hundreds of people attended, including police inspectors and Muslim imams. The non-Ahmadi Muslims noted at the opening that they had been misinformed about Ahmadis and were told Ahmadis are not Muslims. They noted how good Ahmadi Muslims are.

In Burkina Faso, a missionary wrote that in one Jamaat, where a mosque was being built, every member of the Jamaat was contributing towards the construction of the mosque in whatever way they could.

He said that one day two elder Ahmadis came carrying two chickens and some eggs.

They said that that was all they had and requested for it to be accepted as chanda towards the mosque from them so that they

too could partake in its blessing.

Huzooraa said that today, poor people in Africa are re-establishing the example of the poor Ahmadis in Qadian who gave immense sacrifices over 100 years ago – this is a proof of the truthfulness of the Jamaat in itself.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa announced that a new, beautifully bound Quran with unique Arabic font – Khat-e-Manzur – was in print. Huzooraa highlighted its quality of print, design and beauty.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa gave further facts and figures about the progress of the Jamaat during the year. These included: • 22.7 million people received the message of Islam throughout the world and more than 9,357,000 leaflets were distributed • Under Wakalat-e-Ishaat Taba‘at, there were 4,256,659 publications this year in 93 countries. These include 407 different books and pamphlets in 42 languages • Under Wakalat-e-Ishaat Tarseel, more than 190,000 books in 24 languages were sent to different countries • 360,240 books printed by the Raqeem Press in the UK • The Jamaat presses established in eight African countries collectively printed over 612,000 books • 97 new mission houses established around the world • The first Ahmadi mosque in Mexico has been established – Baitul Afiyat • The first Ahmadi mosque in Malawi has been built • 41,111 sessions of volunteering (waqar-eamal) were held in 114 countries, saving $5,213,000 • 407 unique books and pamphlets were produced in 42 different languages • 7,540 Quran exhibitions and displays that were held reached 343,000 people Sunday’s event On Sunday, 9 August 2020, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa arrived in the Masroor Hall in Islamabad at 15:01 BST to deliver his address to the worldwide audience via MTA International.

Nasar Ahmad Arshad Sahib was called to the stage to recite a portion of the Holy Quran (Surah al-Saff, Ch.61: V.8-12), after which Asif Bin Owais Sahib read out its Urdu translation.

Rana Mahmood-ul-Hasan Sahib was

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM then called to recite a nazm; the poem recited was written by the Promised Messiahas, “Hamd-o-sanaa usi ko…”

After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand, took to the podium and said that today’s address would continue the theme of his Friday Sermon, delivered two days ago.

Huzooraa said that the report that was actually prepared had to be condensed for it to be accommodated in the address.

Wakalat-e-Tamil-o-Tanfidh for India, Nepal and Bhutan has worked on the Hindi translation of all books of the Promised Messiahas. By the grace of Allah, according to the report from Qadian, 16 books have been translated and published afresh, while 21 further books are pending review. There are tabligh efforts being made there.

Under the Arabic Desk, 145 books and leaflets have been published. The 20th volume of Ruhani Khazain has been sent for print this year, as well as the first volume of Tafsir-e-Kabir and various other translations of the Promised Messiah’sas books and other literature produced by the Khulafa. All Arabic books are being regularly uploaded to the Jamaat’s central Arabic website. Programmes of MTA are also available on this website, as well as the Friday Sermon which is being uploaded since 2008.

The French Desk provides French translations for various literature as well as translating letters. Various tabligh activities are also rendered by this department. In November 2009, the French website was also started and many people continue to visit the site.

The Turkish Desk has produced 18 or 19 translations of books and these will very soon be published. On MTA, 43 Turkish programmes were recorded afresh. Various other tabligh and tarbiyat activities are also being rendered by them.

The Russian Desk is also producing translations in a great way. Aside from the Pakistani missionaries, Huzooraa named two Russian gentlemen who are contributing to the translations. Huzoor’s Friday Sermons are also being translated regularly. Letters sent to Huzooraa in various languages belonging to the area are also translated by the Russian Desk. The Jamaat’s Russian website was launched in 2013 and all Friday Sermons and various addresses are regularly uploaded. More than 10,000 people visited the website in the past year. The Uzbek website also has various addresses of Huzooraa, Friday Sermons and other MTA programmes.

The Kyrgyz website is also functioning in a similar manner, along with the recitation of the Holy Quran.

Under the Bangla Desk, through MTA programmes, 69 new converts were made possible. Translation of the Holy Quran and other such services are being rendered by them.

Under the Chinese Desk, various books of the Promised Messiahas and other literature are being translated and produced.

The Indonesian Desk is also providing Indonesian translations of Huzoor’saa Friday Sermons. 220 programmes were also translated by them in the past year, as well

as various books of the Promised Messiahas.

The Swahili Desk has been established now in the UK and all programmes broadcast on MTA Africa are being translated in Swahili. 15 parts of the Holy Quran were also translated as well as other literature.

The Spanish Desk is functioning in Spain and working on various translations and are working very well. The website run by this department attracts 22,000 people every month, whereas in Ramadan, 42,000 people visited.

The Waqf-e-Nau department has now become quite organised and in total, 72,932 Waqifeen-e-Nau are included in the scheme, with 3,994 being included in the past year. The Waqifeen who have renewed their pledges are more than 15,000.

The Alislam website has many books and literature with many new additions.

The team is working very well.

The Review of Religions has reached 118 years and is publishing in French, German, Spanish and English. This year, they have played an important role in reaching the English-speaking countries. They have a big presence on social media and more than 5 million people have visited their posts and videos. During the lockdown, people were more inclined to reading The Review of Religions. Over 70,000 people have subscribed to their YouTube channel.

Al Fazl International was launched in 1994 as a weekly newspaper and is now publishing twice a week. It has a very beautiful and elegant design.

Al Hakam is also being published on a weekly basis. The readership increased greatly during the lockdown.

The Press and Media Office has also worked on many projects and reached many people online.

Makhzan-e-Tasaweer has its offices in Tahir House. The visits there, to Huzoor’s knowledge, are not as they should be. 913 people from 25 countries have visited the exhibition.

The Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre is preserving various tabarrukat and remaining in contact with researchers studying the Jamaat and doing a good job.

Under MTA Africa, there are many new developments. Under the Wahab Adam Studios, various programmes have been recorded. Other countries have reported positive outcomes of MTA Africa. Huzooraa then pointed the Jamaat’s attention to watching MTA and making it a part of our lives.

Thereafter, Huzooraa narrated faithinspiring incidents of people turning to the Jamaat through technology.

Then Huzoor mentioned Ahmadiyya radio stations. With the addition of two new radio stations during the previous year, there are total 27 radio stations of the Jamaat around the world. There are 17 radio stations in Mali and some in Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, The Gambia and here in the UK also, Voice of Islam is working and working very well.

Aside from MTA International, 44 countries were able to present programmes on television and radio shows, with 11,063 TV programmes spanning 6,842 hours and more than 18,400 hours in 22,167 radio shows.

IAAAE has been working on various projects, for example Water for Life and other such projects. They are getting help from various architects and engineers throughout the world.

Humanity First has been serving humanity for the last 26 years and is established in 54 countries. Huzooraa then narrated some progress of medical camps being installed throughout the world as well as basic facilities. They were also able to conduct over 500 eye operations in eye clinics.

MTA International has 16 departments and has 496 people working day and night, of whom 275 men and 142 women are volunteers, whereas 79 people are paid staff members. On 27 May 2020, MTA entered a new era with eight channels running 24 hours a day. Since 2014, MTA is broadcasting programmes with subtitles and new additions have been made to the languages of subtitles.

Huzooraa then narrated incidents of people accepting Ahmadiyyat through MTA. Huzooraa said that it becomes clear from these incidents that people have been becoming aware of the Jamaat, but due to a lack of presence on our part, they were not able to perform Bai‘at. However, Huzooraa prayed for all those who entered the Jamaat in this period that they are able to stay resolute in their faith, which is the most important thing.

The amir of France wrote that a Christian would regularly visit his local church and pose questions about his faith to his priest, which the priest disliked. He came across a book of the Promised Messiahas, Jesus in India; the more he studied it, the more his questions were answered and now he has turned towards the Jamaat.

Marwan Gill, missionary of Argentina, wrote that a lady was once passing by our mission house when she noticed a poster through the window with the Promised Messiah’sas portrait and which said that the awaited Messiah has come. This had a great impact on her. She then contacted the Jamaat and studied its literature. After one year, she became convinced of the Jamaat’s truthfulness and despite being separated from her husband and facing opposition from her family as a result of this decision, she remains resolute in her faith.

Naseer Shahid Sahib of France wrote that a lady from France saw a dream that she was in a large mosque and many groups

had in their possession the Holy Quran.

Among the groups, she noticed a smaller group where she recognised a lady and so, she joined it. She was questioned on this move, when she saw a bright light. From this dream, she interpreted that Ahmadiyyat was the group on the right path and has entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat along with her five children.

Amir Jamaat Niger wrote that an Ahmadi narrated his dream in which he saw that he was lying down in his house and saw the moon, on which was inscribed the Kalima. After seeing this dream, the gentleman interpreted the truth of the Jamaat as the colour and style of the text written on the moon was noticed at a Jamaat event.

A muallim of Burkina Faso narrated that someone expressed his desire to enter the Jamaat. However, he faced some opposition from his village. He once saw in a dream that there were two groups in a field who were to hold a debate. However, as his group had no arguments to present, the victory was handed to the Ahmadiyya group. This enabled him to realise the truthfulness of the Jamaat.

A muallim of Tanzania wrote that a member of the Wahhabi group would regularly use foul language against the Jamaat, to such a degree that people from within his group refused to go to his mosque ever again. This cleric eventually faced humiliation by committing an indecent act and was forced to leave the area.

A missionary from Bulgaria wrote that a sincere friend has maintained regular contact with the Jamaat. He has placed various literature of the Jamaat in his clinics. Accordingly, many people have become aware of the message of the Jamaat.

Huzooraa said that although not a member of the Jamaat, there are such people in the world who are becoming a means of the tabligh of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

Towards the end, Huzooraa read out an extract from the writings of the Promised Messiahas on the subject of divine help and succour with God’s chosen people.

Huzooraa then concluded by praying that the world may quickly turn to the truth and that we may fulfil our obligations for making this a reality.

Huzooraa concluded the event with dua, after which he extended “Assalamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” to all attendees and viewers of MTA.

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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This Week in History 14 - 20 August In this third year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed life of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, this time, with some more details

14 August 1903: A Christian belonging to Bannu by the name of Gul Muhammad came to Qadian and indulged in a discourteous argument with the Promised Messiahas before returning with the same attitude. After he left, the Promised Messiahas saw in a dream that Gul Muhammad was applying collyrium to his eyes. The Promised Messiahas said that this was an indication that he would be guided aright. Several years later, it was heard that he had reverted to Islam. In this regard, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra added that he had received a postcard from the widow of the wellknown Dr Pennell of Bannu, wherein she stated that Gul Muhammad had left Christianity and had reverted to his original faith, Islam.

14 August 1907: On this date, the Promised Messiahas received an Urdu revelation: � ��� � �� ‫ �ت اور‬،�‫ آ‬،�‫� � � ����� � ا� ����� و � آ‬ � ‫آج �رے‬ “Today the Holy Prophet, on whom be the peace and blessings of Allah, came to our house. Along came honour and security.”

15 August 1898: The enemies of the Promised Messiahas were always thinking of new ways of derision and injury against him. Once, they reported against him by wrongfully suggesting that he was not paying income tax to the government, in spite of the fact that he was liable to be assessed for it. While investigating this income tax case, Munshi Tajuddin Sahib Tehsildar of Batala, District Gurdaspur visited Qadian on this day. He recorded the account of the Promised Messiahas and some locals too. Later, the Promised Messiahas summed up this legal battle as a fresh sign.

16 August 1888: The Promised Messiahas guided a notable Muslim cleric of his time, Munshi Syed Mazhar Hussain of Allahabad, while replying to his letter on the principles of commentary of the Holy Quran. Hazrat Ahmadas shed light upon two main groups of verses of the Holy Quran and steered him towards the right path so that he could avoid further misunderstanding.

16 August 1902: The Promised Messiahas explained to Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra, while replying to his letter, the true philosophy of prayers, trust in God, steadfastness against all forms of adversities and blessings and bounties of Allah for his true servants. Huzooras stated that he had prayed for him, so much so that if such fervent prayers had been done for a dried branch of a tree, it would have been restored to life.

Huzooras said that even so, he was not exhausted.

17 August 1884: The Promised Messiahas conveyed to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira that his two letters were received earlier, but he was suffering from multiple health issues. Hazrat Ahmadas stated that these ailments were shaking him so much that he was considering spending at least one month in

an area of high altitude to beat the harshness of summer.

17 August 1887: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra expressing his curiosity about the wellbeing of Hazrat Hakim Sahibra as he was not in contact for quite some time. Hazrat Ahmadas updated him regarding unprecedented rainfall in Qadian as some old folks of Qadian Hazrat Hakim Maulvi had stated that they had Nuruddinra never experienced such a heavy downpour in their entire lives. In this letter, Huzooras wrote to Hazrat Hakim Sahibra to search for a job in Kashmir for one of his personal workers. Hazrat Ahmadas sent basic information of the said person, which depicts Huzoor’s gracious care and deep observation for his personal helpers.

17 August 1895: The Promised Messiahas updated Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira about the ongoing printing stage of his two books: Nur-ul-Quran and Minanur-Rahman. In this letter, Huzooras also mentioned that the time since Hazrat Munshi Sahib’sra last visit to Qadian had been substantial, so he should consider visiting Qadian by availing any approaching holidays.

17 August 1895: The Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas says that one day, when he was reading the Holy Quran and pondering over it with deep concentration, his eyes stopped at a certain verse regarding Mecca. This verse appeared before his eyes extraordinarily and Huzooras felt as though it was a treasure of knowledge and of spiritual secrets. Hazrat Ahmadas became very glad and exclaimed, “Alhamdolillah!”

Huzooras says that it was made clear to him that that verse pointed towards the excellence of the Arabic language and also to the fact that Arabic is the mother of all languages. It is this theme that he has expounded on and explained in his book Minanur-Rahman. Hazrat Ahmadas intended this book

to be published in December 1895, but for some reason it could not be published in his lifetime.

It eventually was published in 1915. Later, Hazrat Sheikh Muhammad Ahmad Mazhar Sahib produced a series of books on this topic, on the origin of languages in light of this above-mentioned book of the Promised Messiahas.

17 August 1899: The editor of Al Hakam, Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira recorded a faithinspiring and interesting incident of someone from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. He stated: “A few days ago, someone wrote to the Promised Messiah from Bareilly, enquiring, ‘Are Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira you the same Promised Messiah foretold in the various ahadith of God’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him? Respond by taking an oath on God Almighty.’ As was the custom, I responded to the person with a few lines from Tiryaq-ul-Qulub, a book of the Promised Messiahas, which should have been a sufficient response. The individual was not satisfied. He wrote to me again and addressed me saying, ‘I would like Hazrat Mirza Sahib to write on oath, with his own hand, as to whether he is the same Promised Messiah who has been mentioned in the ahadith and the Holy Quran.’

“After the evening Prayer, I placed an inkpot, pen and paper before the Promised Messiah and submitted that a certain individual had written such and such request. Huzoor took the paper at once and wrote the following lines: ‘Previously, I have already written the following declaration clearly in my books as an oath before the people, but once again, on this document, I swear by God Almighty, in Whose hand is my life, and write that I am the same Promised Messiah who has been foretold by the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and who has been mentioned in the authentic ahadith recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim and other books from among the six authentic books of hadith. ٰ ‫وﻛﻔی با��� ﺷﻬیدا‬ “‘[And Allah is sufficient as a witness.] “‘The writer, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. May Allah forgive him and support him. 17 August 1899.’

“In relating this account, I have two objectives in mind. Firstly, so that the faith of our own community may be increased and so that they too can experience the same joy and pleasure that the fortunate ones present here at the time felt. Those of us present here at the time must

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

more than all others because they receive fresh insight in matters divine. If an individual claims that they are blessed with divine understanding, but they do not act upon it, then such claims are nothing but mere boasting and bragging. Therefore, our community must not become heedless on account of the negligence of others, nor allow their love to cool on account of the lack of passion in others. An individual harbours many desires. Who has knowledge of the hidden matters of destiny and decree? Life never moves in parallel with one’s wishes. A person’s longings are one thing, but the design of fate and destiny is quite another and it is this phenomenon which is true to life.

Bear in mind that the circumstances of a person’s life are in the knowledge of God Almighty. Who knows what life has in store for them? This is why an individual must constantly awaken their heart to make it vigilant...

It is a pity that although afflictions have become widespread, the arrogance and pride that consumes the people has not diminished. I truthfully say that they will not be dispelled until the obstinacy and prejudice of the people is removed. I observe that people are not fully prepared to reconcile with God Almighty. During the period of famine, the people remained unmoved. In earlier times, a religious

edict issued from Mecca or Medina would frighten people. When someone would say that an edict had been issued from Mecca, people would become awe-inspired, but now, even the calamities of the present day do not inspire them in the least. It is my opinion that until people turn to God completely, divine decree will never change. Allah the Almighty states: َُۡ ّ َ ُ ّٰ َ ّ َ ُ ّٰ َ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ لَا �غ ِ� ُر َما ِ�قوۡ ٍم َحتی �غ ِ� ُر ۡوا َما ِبا�ف ِس ِه ۡم‬ “Surely, Allah changes not the condition of a people until they change that which is in their hearts.”

14 January 1898 [On one occasion, there was some discussion related to the courts and how witnesses are intimidated by lawyers and judges. The Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, said:] Often, witnesses become so intimidated by lawyers and judges in court that they fail to protect the rights of mankind and utter some untrue or false statement here or there, which results in injustice.

To be in awe of the courts is also a form of associating partners with Allah. God Almighty states: ۡ ُ َ ّ َّ ‫الش ۡرک لَﻈل ٌم َعﻈ ِۡی ٌم‬ ِ ‫ِان‬ “Surely, associating partners with God is a grievous wrong”...

Some British judges are meticulous in examining the facts and only issue a verdict

<< Continued from previous page

wholeheartedly profess that our faith was revived.

Secondly, those who reject the Promised Messiahas and think ill of him ought to reflect with a calm heart and contemplate on whether a committed liar and a self-made deceiver can possess the grace and courage to swear in this manner by God, the Possessor of Glory, in such a gathering?

Allah is the greatest! Allah is the greatest! Indeed, Allah is the greatest!”

17 August 1903: The Promised Messiahas embarked on a journey towards Gurdaspur, after offering Zuhr and Asr prayers in congregation. The purpose behind this was to attend the hearing of a lawsuit filed by Karam Din. Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra was also part of the entourage.

Hazrat Ahmadas made a night-stay in Batala at a lodging situated near the railway station.

Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered there in congregation.

18 August 1888: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra.

In the reply, Huzooras mentioned the improving health of his son, Bashir Awwal and also advised Hazrat Hakim Sahibra to be cautious before further dealing with Huzoor’sas elder son, Mirza Fazl Ahmad Sahib, who was serving in Kashmir in those days, where Hazrat Hakim Sahibra was residing.

Hazrat Ahmadas mentioned and lamented his family members’ inappropriate approach towards divine and religious matters.

18 August 1902: Mirza Ahsan Baig Sahib formally requested to be part of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. He was the brother-in-law of Muhammadi Begum.

19 August 1893: In response to a letter from Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, the Promised Messiahas detailed the account of when Huzooras was in

after deep contemplation and reflection. It so happened, as per the will of God, that on one occasion, during the time of Mirza Sahib (my father), I was in Amritsar to appear in the court of the commissioner for a case with some of our tenants. One day, before the verdict was to be announced, the commissioner was unjustly favouring the tenants and turning a blind eye to their mischief and said in court that these were poor people and we were being unjust towards them. That night I saw in my dream that the very same Englishman was standing before me in the form of a child and I was patting his head with my hand.

The next morning, when we went to court, his state had changed completely, as if he was a new person altogether. He rebuked the tenants sternly and issued a verdict for the case in our favour and also ordered them to pay for all our expenses...

One of the ethical responsibilities of a judge is to reflect deeply over cases so that no one is made to suffer injustice...

Until and unless an individual is strong-willed and calm in disposition, it becomes difficult for a person to stand in the presence of worldly judges. What then will be the state of such people when they stand before the Lord who is the Greatest of Judges?...

In light of the Torah, the seed which issues forth from adultery is accursed and one who is crucified is also accursed. It is

Amritsar for a religious debate. Huzooras expressed his curiosity as to why Hazrat Munshi Sahibra was not aware of the actual account of events.

Many opponents rose against the Messiah of the age, but they all faced their own humiliating ends at their destined hours. During this Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira aforementioned trip, Maulvi Abdul Haq, Maulvi Muhammad Hussain of Batala, Mian Abdul Hayye of Lakhokay and Maulvi Abdul Jabbar were invited for a mubahala (prayer dual) through registered post, which was responded to by these individuals respectively. Thousands of local residents of Amritsar witnessed this historic episode unfold, which also included some Christian missionaries who reached the location set for mubahala out of their curiosity.

19 August 1896: The Promised Messiahas wrote to Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra and confirmed that his donation of 300 rupees reached him three days ago. Hazrat Ahmadas expressed his utmost appreciation and prayed for his abundant rewards in both worlds. Huzooras stated that he had been occupied in compiling some research papers, which Huzooras mentioned in his previous letter to Seith Sahibra. Hazrat Ahmadas wrote that to fortify his research regarding certain topics, he needed testimonies of different Jewish scholars.

Huzooras wrote that only one point was left, which Hazrat Munshi Zainuddin Muhammad Ibrahimra promised to help obtain from a certain Jewish

astonishing that for their own salvation, the Christians have crafted the doctrine of atonement and for this purpose they have accepted that Christ was put on the cross and became accursed. When they have accepted one form of curse to be applicable to Christ, why do they not accept the other form of curse in his respect also, so that their concept of atonement may become even stronger? When the word “curse” has been deemed acceptable, then it makes no difference whether it is applicable in one sense or two. However, the Holy Quran has refuted both these forms of curse in the case of Jesus and responds by saying that not only was Jesus of pure birth, but his demise was also by natural means, not by crucifixion...

A righteous person turns to God and the entire world follows them of their own accord. But a worldly person bears grief and pain for the sake of the world, yet even still does not find comfort from the world.

Just observe how the companions of the Holy Prophetsa abandoned the world, yet despite this, they not only became wealthy in terms of materialistic goods, but also partook in the fruit of the hereafter.

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

148-150)

source.

20 August 1885: The Promised Messiahas shared his famous supplication with Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra, while replying to his letter, which runs as follows: � � � � � ‫�ا ��رہ �ہ ����� �� اور‬ � � �‫ا‬ � �!‫�ا‬ ‫�ے‬ � � ‫�ے � اور اے‬ � � ‫اے‬ ‫د� اور ا�ن‬ � � ‫� اور �ہ � �ہ‬ � ‫د� اور ا�م � ا�م‬ � � � � � � � � � ‫�ں۔‬ �� � � � ‫� ا�ن ��۔‬ � ‫�۔‬ � � � � ‫� ���ى �دہ �� � اور ا� ��ر �ں‬ � � ‫�ى � �� اور �� �� � �ف ��اور‬ � � � ‫اَب � � ��� اور � �ہ �ر� � اور‬ � � � � � � � ‫�ے اس � � �ت � � � ���ے اور �� �رہ‬ �‫آ‬ � �‫۔آ‬ � �� “O Benevolent God! I am a worthless, sinful and heedless servant of Yours. You have seen me commit injustices upon injustices, yet always bestowed rewards upon rewards. You have seen me commit sin upon sin and yet You conferred Your favour upon favour. You have always concealed my flaws and granted me countless bounties. Thus, even now, grant mercy to this unworthy and sinful one and forgive me my boldness and ungratefulness. Alleviate this sorrow of mine – for there is none else save You who can help.”

20 August 1899: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra, in which Seith Sahibra informed Huzooras about success in a certain journey. Hazrat Ahmadas wrote that he did not know about the motive of his aforementioned journey, but he prayed fervently for the success of his wishes.

20 August 1903: The Promised Messiahas arrived back in Qadian from Gurdaspur from the aforementioned journey.

20 August 1904: The Promised Messiahas departed for his journey of Lahore, during the course of which he delivered the historic lecture now famously known as Lecture Lahore.

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

6

Where stars descend Chapter 5 (Multidimensional vision) Part I Asif M Basit

It has been mentioned previously that there is a stark difference in the wavelength of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and the ordinary human. Our mindset remains occupied in trivial earthly pursuits whereas the Khalifa’s goals soar high above the skies. We are constrained by our capabilities in understanding things, but the Khalifa sees things beyond the three dimensions we are accustomed to.

This has been experienced many times during mulaqats. When I have had four or five points to seek guidance on, I would think, bearing in mind their nature, that they would take up a lot of time. But Huzooraa would spend only a few seconds on each item, resulting in the four issues being solved within a matter of minutes.

On the other hand, however, when I have thought to myself that due to the very few items on my list, the mulaqat would be no longer than a few minutes, Huzooraa would spend 10 to 15 minutes on each item, as well as enquiring about other matters and giving guidance on them.

At times, when I have presented short promos to be played on MTA for approval, Huzooraa would tell me to place the DVD on his desk and that if he had time, he would watch it. However, at other instances, when I have presented a 45-minute documentary, Huzooraa has told me to play it and on such occasions, I have placed the DVD into the player that is located opposite Huzoor’s desk and stood to one side as Huzooraa continued his work with the DVD playing. In front of Huzooraa, on the desk, would be a pile of letters from people around the world as well as official letters requiring guidance and approval. If a 45-minute programme was being played, then in my observation, the total duration of Huzooraa looking up and watching the programme would be no longer than 45 seconds. The rest of time, Huzooraa would be reading the hundreds of letters placed before him.

The astonishing thing is that as this goes on, Huzooraa pauses the programme and gives instructions for certain edits to be made.

Initially, at such occasions, I would not watch as attentively as I should, due to having been through the pre-

production, production, post-production and reviewing phases. Instead of paying attention, I would satisfy my yearning of observing Huzoor’s blessed countenance.

But I then learnt that if I did not pay attention, I would face embarrassment when asked about something. In any case, wherever Huzooraa glanced up at the television screen, most of the times, there was something that required editing.

A documentary was once prepared in which scenes were shown from a non-Ahmadi Muslim protest. Huzooraa glanced up at the television screen, paused the DVD and enquired regarding an individual in the background: “He looks just like [so and so]?”

When I looked up, I found that he had a perfect resemblance with the person Huzooraa was referring to. I had been through the footage numerous times during the editing-phase and the colleagues working on the documentary were familiar with the person also. But no one had managed to point that out.

When I returned to the office from the mulaqat, I relayed the incident to my colleagues. They all went back and viewed that part of the documentary once again. When they had seen it, they all agreed that the resemblance was uncanny.

Although some may consider it a passing statement, but a lesson can be learnt from Huzoor’s attention to detail. And although the maulvi was not the Ahmadi who he had resembled, considering the responsibilities of my department, I learnt a huge lesson.

Here we have our own way of thinking, but Huzoor’s farsightedness is such that it has its eyes set higher than where we can see. Due to our lack of wisdom and insight, we consider ourselves to be correct, and if the outcome in any of our pursuits is not to our liking, then instead of reflecting over the possible flaws in our pursuit and accepting that our understanding is limited, we look for faults in the outcome.

We should be most careful regarding matters submitted to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. We should acknowledge that our thoughts and expectations are null and void in front of the wisdom of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. Otherwise, we should reflect upon the wording of the Bai‘at and the respective auxiliary pledges that we make and be concerned for the state of

our faith.

More than a century bears witness to the fact that to side with the Khalifa of the time is the solution to our critical problems. Who can say that they would rather take the challenges of life head-on without proper direction and insight?

Nobody, including me, can claim to have understood Huzoor’s farsightedness because we inevitably see the world in our own little bubble. I now present some incidents where it becomes manifest that Huzooraa envisions the future in a completely different manner to us all.

Before I commence with the actual topic, I would like to shed further light on the incident mentioned above. I have already said that despite having piles of letters in front of him, Huzooraa is able to pick out the smallest of details in a programme. However, I should also mention that Huzooraa does not skim through letters, nor does he merely sign them with his signature.

The atmosphere of the office is such that Huzooraa listens to what the person has to say; if there is a programme that requires guidance, then that would play in the background and amidst all that, Huzooraa carefully reads the letters.

It has been observed that Huzooraa not only reads the summaries that have been attached with the actual letter, but also reads the handwriting of the person who has sent the letter and, where necessary, Huzooraa gives further guidance in

writing.

The personal letters for which summaries are prepared are all composed in light of Huzoor’s words, which he personally writes on the letters. But when such letters have been prepared and are ready for Huzoor’s signatures, they are always presented with the original letter.

Thus, in those blessed moments, one gets the opportunity to see Huzooraa read through not hundreds, but thousands of letters. Many a time, I have witnessed Huzooraa refer to the original letter after reading the letter that required his signature. I have seen it dozens of times when Huzooraa corrects a mistake in the letter and thus, a new version of that letter gets presented to Huzooraa for his signature.

The reason for Huzoor’s precision and care in his letters is that whatever is written on that letter on Huzoor’s behalf, whether it is personal or official, is to become a part of history.

Whilst reading every word with care, Huzooraa also carries on with other tasks.

This is a capability that can only be deemed God-given, and who better a recipient in this day than Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.

Praise be to Allah a thousand times over that He has enabled us to see His chosen one with our own eyes in the present day.

Now, let us turn our attention to how we may be thinking one thing, but Huzoor’s divinely inspired vision is set elsewhere.

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM Al-Hiwar-ul-Mubashar was the first programme on MTA in which viewers were able to send in their questions and receive their answers live. Ahmadis and non-Ahmadis alike had the opportunity to ask their questions. This was a breakthrough in MTA’s history. It was a seed planted by Huzooraa and as a result, Allah caused it to be widely accepted throughout the Arabic speaking world.

When the live broadcast of that programme began, the Urdu-speaking audience also expressed their desire for having such a programme. The feedback received from MTA viewers is always important, but when deliberations were made with regard to such a programme, it was felt that the nature of the Urdu and Punjabi speaking audience (especially when bringing non-Ahmadis and their views on Ahmadiyyat into account) would not be appropriate for MTA, if things escalated. Thus, such a programme was always considered a “no-go area”.

Huzooraa was also aware of the desire of the viewers to have such a programme on MTA. In those days, regular news updates were given on MTA. In addition to this, Huzooraa instructed that a monthly report be given to the MTA viewers on the persecution of Ahmadi Muslims in the form of news bulletins. In accordance with Huzoor’s instructions, Persecution News began.

Abid Waheed Khan Sahib, Mashood Iqbal Sahib and, on occasions, Daud Khan Sahib accompanied me as part of the studio panel. The programme was widely accepted by MTA viewers.

During those days, a so-called scholar and television presenter in Pakistan invited Islamic jurists to his show and together, they declared Ahmadis “wajibul-qatl” (liable to death). If there is any sense left in the senseless state of Pakistan, then it is the sense of enmity and spite for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

As soon as the fatwa (edict) was relayed among the masses, within only a few days, some of our very dear Ahmadi brothers were martyred in Sindh. Among them was the late Abdul Manan Siddiqi Sahib – God rest his soul – who was a doctor by profession and would spend days and nights in treating underprivileged patients. He was martyred as a result of the fatwa aired on national television.

In Persecution News, the misinformation and false accusations were highlighted and refuted. The martyrdoms that occurred because of the programme were also mentioned. The episodes of Persecution News after that event had taken the path of explaining the beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

Under the instructions of Huzooraa, an email account was created for viewers to send in their questions for the studio panel to answer. In the upcoming episodes, we would answer their questions. With Huzoor’s permission, the duration of the programme was increased and instead of showing it monthly, it was shown on a fortnightly basis. However, the two-week wait also proved too long for viewers.

One day, Huzooraa instructed that

the “news” label should be removed and it should be broadcast as a separate programme called Persecution. Due to the change in the programme’s nature, Huzooraa also instructed that alongside lawyers, religious scholars should also be included in the programme.

During those first few shows, we would have Ata-ul-Mujeeb Rashed Sahib and Laiq Ahmad Tahir Sahib alongside Daud Khan Sahib or Mashood Iqbal Sahib. A few days after a show had been recorded, it would be broadcast on MTA. With Huzoor’s permission, the programme now had its own telephone number for viewers to record their questions and have them asked on our programme.

The filtering of those questions and remarks left by viewers is a separate story in its own right. As I mentioned, it was a pre-recorded programme and on the day of broadcast, the number for the telephone line would be displayed on the screen. The following day, I would sit and listen to all the questions and remarks that people had recorded. Although most of the questions were sensible in nature, I would have to listen to a handful of malicious messages, consisting mainly of foul and offensive language, which was always a startling start to the morning.

In any case, the questions were noted down and answered in the following programme. As time went on, the shape and format of the programme completely transformed. The number of questions that we started to receive was more than we could answer in a single programme. Apart from questions, we were also expected to give updates on the persecution of Ahmadis.

Every programme was sent to Huzooraa for guidance and approval. Alhamdolillah, Huzooraa guided us at every step of the way. Huzooraa would sometimes say that such and such answer was not sufficient and should have been answered in such and such manner. Those instructions would be passed on to the panel members.

Huzooraa would also give me instructions on how to better the programme in the capacity of the presenter.

For a long time, I began thinking that Huzooraa watched all the programmes in their entirety, from beginning to end.

“But at what time?” I could not answer this question.

Then, one day, Huzooraa took me by surprise by telling me that at times, he would watch the programme from here and there. I firmly believe that those moments were precisely selected by God Almighty for His divinely appointed servant to watch because Huzoor’s attention was always drawn towards those parts that required regulation.

Once, Huzoor asked, “How many takes do you record one programme in?”

I replied, “Normally, we don’t need to stop. If anyone needs to cough or if there is a technical error, we stop, otherwise it is recorded in one take.”

Huzoor instructed, “The next programme should be recorded in a single take.”

This instruction of Huzooraa was relayed to the team and appropriate

arrangements were made so that it could be recorded in one take. In the next mulaqat, I informed Huzooraa that we had managed to record the programme in one take, to which Huzooraa replied, “The next programme should be recorded in the same manner.”

We did so accordingly.

The third time, Huzooraa instructed that we did the same and we obeyed again.

After the third programme, I informed Huzooraa, “Huzoor, we managed to record last night’s programme in one take also.”

Huzoor replied, “Then why don’t you broadcast the programme live?”

We had all considered it a “no-go area” and therefore we had never brought it into consideration, so much so that when Huzooraa instructed us to record the programme in one take thrice, even then it did not cross our minds that Huzooraa was preparing us to broadcast the show live.

I immediately responded, “Insha-Allah the next programme will be broadcast live.”

Huzoor replied, “No. The national Ijtema will be held next Saturday. People will be occupied in that. You will need a strong team for a live programme. When the ijtemas have ended, form a team and commence with the live programme.”

How Huzooraa is able to maintain a clear picture of the calendar of events is beyond me. Only God knows how Huzooraa retains all such information. But just ponder how Huzooraa first prepared us for a live programme, then gave an instruction to broadcast the programme live, then thought that a strong team would be required and Huzooraa cared for the fact that no hurdle should come in the way of formulating a team.

The biggest lesson that can be learnt here is that we should work with complete consciousness and give precedence to mindfulness over passion.

The programme had taken a different shape to what it started off as and, under Huzoor’s instruction, it began airing with the name Rah-e-Huda.

One difficulty in the live programme we could foresee was that we had already experienced how people recorded their obscene messages for us on our voicemail, so how could we be sure that they wouldn’t do it live? If they ever called on the live programme and repeated what they had said on the voicemail, it would indeed be a great cause for concern for the Jamaat.

I presented this hesitation to Huzooraa, but he very calmly replied, “Nothing of the sort will happen. Start the programme.”

And thus, Huzooraa sowed the seed for the live programme. But Huzooraa was well-aware of the season in which he was to sow this seed; he knew exactly when this “plant” would gain fruition; he knew how to grow it and when to leave it in the open air. But even when Huzooraa left it in the open air, it was always under his supervision.

Before and after each show, Huzooraa would equip us with guidelines and instructions. If ever Huzooraa felt that an answer was not up to the mark, Huzooraa would instruct that the answer be given

again in accordance with what Huzooraa explained and thus, the answer would be given afresh on the following show.

Once, someone called in and asked, “In Islam, only two forms of journeys have been made compulsory – Hajj and Jihad.

From where have you sought permission to make Jalsa Salana a compulsory journey?” Accordingly, our scholars answered the question.

The following day, I had a mulaqat.

In that, I informed Huzooraa of the questions that had been asked during the programme, including the above.

Huzooraa listened to this question rather attentively and enquired about the answer we gave. I gave a summary of the answer.

Huzoor then turned his chair towards the set of Ruhani Khazain – the compilation of books of the Promised Messiahas – which is located on Huzoor’s left [in the Fazl Mosque office]. He picked out a volume of Majmu‘a Ishtiharat, turned a few pages and said: “The answer to this has been mentioned here. The same allegation was made during the time of the Promised Messiahas, in reply to which Huzooras published an entire announcement.”

Huzooraa read out the entire text to me, which consisted of two full pages.

The speed with which Huzooraa read it out was remarkable. Despite the speed, everything was clearly read out. Huzooraa pronounced each word as it ought to be and nothing was ambiguously read; it was not how we read out passages in a hurry and eat our words.

Having read it all out, Huzooraa said, “This is the reply to the allegation.”

I really wanted to ask how Huzooraa had reached that passage so quickly. The amazement with which I left the mulaqat that day is pretty much the same today.

However, this was not an exclusive event; I have witnessed events like this several times.

Once, when I sought guidance regarding a qaseedah (Arabic poem) of the Promised Messiahas, Huzooraa immediately turned his chair towards his books and reached for the book Al-Qasaaid-ul-Ahmadiyya.

Huzooraa immediately found the qaseedah in question and showed me the couplets for which I had sought guidance.

It would be fair to say, judging from the state of Huzoor’s books, that they have been referred to extensively. The Promised Messiah’sas books especially seem as if Huzooraa studies them every day. Huzoor’s personal copy of the Holy Quran is annotated with thousands of flags and points and the folds on many pages show that the one who possesses the most knowledge of the Holy Quran in this day is truly the biggest admirer of the Quran also. This fact is proven in every Friday Sermon, speech, Waqf-e-Nau class and sittings in Jamia Ahmadiyya.

So these were the foundations of Rahe-Huda.

(To be continued…)

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

8

100 Years Ago...

An anecdote of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, Ahmadi missionary of USA The Review of Religions (English), August & September 1920

I had come to see the Allahabad Exhibition and was well tired after the ramblings of a busy day, when I was suddenly pounced upon by some old acquaintances. They all seemed to be in high spirits, and after the usual words of greetings, they suddenly assailed me with a simultaneous volley of requests for a lecture. It was in vain that I pleaded to a raggedness of feeling, to the unsuitableness of the place and the time.

When they had found me, they said, they were not going to part without hearing something from their beloved Mufti. A bad job, I thought, but still one which ought to be made the most of.

I stood against a lamp-post, and told them that I had come, one among the many visitors to the exhibition. My old craze for books led me to where a number of stalls exhibited a most alluring prospect of a short hour’s “converse with the mighty minds of old.” A robust Brahmin with the orthodox caste-mark prominently visible on the forehead and crest, was in charge of a stock of books which looked venerable in their antiquity. The hope of a rare discovery soon led me to approach the pile. “What have you here? My friend!”

I asked the gentleman in-charge. “Our ancient Shastra,” was the reply. Nothing could be better, I thought, being specially a lover of religious literature.

I pointed to a volume more hoary than the others and inquired what it contained.

“It is the venerable Vedas, the Book of the Hindus, left by the Rishis for the guidance of men.” “And who, pray, were the Rishis!”

I asked. “Why, the elect ones of God, who flourished in the first beginning of the race, to whom God spoke and delivered His will for the guidance of mankind.” O luck, a find! I thought. To be spoken to by God, to be delivered from all uncertainty and doubt, to feel His tangible presence, that would solve the whole problem of my life! “Well my friend!” I eagerly asked, “Will the book help me to become one like those happy Rishis, and have there been many Rishis, actually produced by following the guidance of the Vedas?”

“Stranger!” said my interlocutor, “No, you know that Rishis are born only once in one cycle of the world?” “What was the Book good for then?” I cried, “and why do you display it at all in the exhibition? Send it to some curiosity-shop. The exhibition is intended to exhibit specimens of things purchasable or obtainable.” The Brahmin smiled at the show of petulance and I turned away disappointed.

Nearby was another camp, large, neat, and richly appointed. Everything about it was spick and span, everything up-to-date. The shop-people were active, attentive and obliging. At my slightest motion towards the camp, they came offering their services and assured me that their establishment was the one best equipped in the country and that they possessed varieties, suiting every taste and temperament. Their great book – the Bible – spoke about the son of God, who lived the life of a man and yet was God. The statement seemed to me somewhat abstruse, but then the appearance and affability of the gentlemen had already won my good opinion. “You speak of a son of God” said I, “that is better than being a Rishi. Pray friend! Let me see the book which will show me the way to become a son of God.” “What version do you want?” one enquired, “There are several available.” I felt doubtful what to say. Then a thought occurred to me.

“Which version,” I asked, “has produced the largest number of sons of God?” The question produced a surprising effect.

The gentlemen fell back and seemed to be wanting an answer. At last, one said, “You have misunderstood us, I am afraid.

There is no more to be a son of God.” “What! Have you too run short of stock? I thought you intelligent gentlemen would see the folly of exhibiting catalogues of articles, which are no more procurable.” I withdrew in dejection.

I had not gone many paces before I noticed another stall. The shop men were a drowsy set of people, who evinced little anxiety to dispose of their goods.

An emblazoned book on the shelf had attracted my attention. “What book is that?” I asked. “It is the Divine book, the Quran” was the reply. “The Divine book?

Who wrote it? What does it speak about?”

I enquired. It was revealed by God to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him. It contains the story of the prophets.” What?

A prophet? That is not as much as a son of God. But yet it is not the least to be spoken to by God and to be the bearer of His Message. But my experience had made me incredulous and as a caution I enquired: “Well gentlemen! Will the book enable me to become a prophet?” “Be gone, you

mad chap,” snapped the shop-keeper, “the succession of prophets is closed with our Holy Prophet Muhammad, who was the last of the line.” The same reply, I inwardly whispered and was leaving the stall in disgust, when an eager voice called to me: “Stop, stop. Sir, the Divine book will tell you the way to become a prophet.” The words captured my attention, but I was still doubtful. “What! Will the book enable me to become a prophet, and be spoken to by God like the ones regarding whom the book relates.” “What else may I mean?

Why else should we love and revere a book which otherwise is, but a dead record?”

The boldness and frankness of the answer served partially to allay my suspicion and I enquired: “But, tell me, brother! Has the book ever actually produced a prophet in the long course of its existence?”

“Yes, Sir! Even a short while back, there was one amongst us in the little town of Qadian.” “Heretic of an Ahmadi,” growled the shop-keeper. But I had already tasted of a new hope and muttered: “Heretic or thodox, I love a book that speaks to some purpose. Friend! Give me a copy.” It was the Holy Quran.

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

Ahmadiyya mosques in Sri Lanka reopen with guidelines from the government

A Abdul Aziz Sri Lanka Correspondent After a 3-month long lockdown, in line with guidelines from the government of Sri Lanka, congregational prayers and other activities have begun again in all Ahmadiyya Mosques in the country.

Jumuah prayers are held at Baitul Hamd

in Colombo, Fazl Mosque in Negombo and Darul Aman Mosque in Pasyala. Similar activities are being held in Puttalam as well as Polonnaruwa. Waqar-e-Amal and tarbiyyati classes are also being held in Negombo. Eid prayers were held in all Ahmadiyya centres.

Jamaat members fully observed precautionary measures as instructed by the government, such as wearing face masks as well as social distancing etc.

Pakistani Ahmadis, who are mostly asylum seekers and refugees in Sri Lanka, also participated in Eid prayers and separate arrangements were made for them.

In the beginning, only 50 participants were allowed and now there are no restrictions in attending congregational prayers in mosques, by the grace of Allah.

Helping the needy: Eid-ul-Adha in Suriname Laiq Ahmad Mushtaq Missionary, Suriname

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname celebrated Eid-ul-Adha on 31 July 2020. Due to the Covid-19 regulations in the country, mosques were not allowed to open their doors for worshippers. Jamaat members offered their Eid prayers at home.

In previous years, the government would permit the Jamaat to pray in a designated area in the Jamaat headquarters, after inspecting all conditions and requirements of the site. Traditionally, animals are slaughtered by members themselves.

This year, animals were slaughtered at the abattoir, after which the meat was brought to the mosque for packaging and distribution. The Jamaat created strict health and safety regulations that were followed by all attendees. Khuddam and Ansar formed teams in accordance to the guidelines and worked tirelessly for a smooth run of the day.

Due to the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, many families were in dire need of support.

The Jamaat sacrificed three cows and eight sheep, of which most of the meat was distributed among members, needy

families in different levels of society, as well as orphanages and retirement homes, including Stichting In de ruimte, Lotjeshuis, Kinderdorp, Huize Campagne and Huize Ashiana.

Two national newspapers, De Ware Tijd and Dagblad Suriname published detailed reports as well as multiple pictures of the Eid celebrations. Starnieuws.com, the most read online news platform of the country produced an article and a video report of the proceedings.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname was praised for its efforts and structured organisation of the day.

Abdoel Moetlieb Mahmood Sahib, Secretary External Affairs and the most senior member of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname, has been serving as the head of the qurbani department for the last 50 years. Dagblad Suriname published Abdoel Moetlieb Mahmood Sahib’s picture on their front page and acknowledged his great work, alhamdulillah.

We would like to request the readers of Al Hakam to remember Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Suriname and the donors in their prayers. May Allah the Almighty enable us to serve mankind in the best manner.

the capital of Benin, in which the governor was briefed on the donation of sacrificial animals by Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin on the occasion of Eid. He was very happy to hear about these donations. He sent his representative along with the Jamaat delegtion, which went to the Porto-Novo Civil Prison and a centre for the mentally impaired to distribute the sacrificial animals and other items.

On 29 July 2020, the team of E-Tele, a

private TV channel, came to Jamaat’s mission house in Cotonou, which was preparing a report on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha in Benin. They interviewed Amir Jamaat Benin and covered Islamic philosophy about the sacrifice in their broadcast.

May Allah the Almighty bestow the best reward on all those who offered sacrifices and those who participated in them in any way and may He grant them the power of sacrifice more than ever before. Amin

Outreach efforts on Eid-ul-Adha in Benin Mirza Farhan Ahmad Baig Benin Correspondent

On the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha this year, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin, with the support of Humanity First Germany, was able to offer 491 sacrifices in 713 places across the country, benefiting 52,230 people.

Our missionaries and local muallims have traveled to remote areas of the country – where there are many underprivileged people who do not have access to meat throughout the year – and distributed the sacrificial meat, alhamdolillah.

In addition, sacrificial animals were donated to government welfare institutions on the occasion of Eid. A ceremony was held on 28 July 2020 at the Governor’s House in Cotonou, which was attended by the Amir Jamaat of Benin, along with a five-member delegation. Amir Sahib told the media that as per our tradition every year, we were offering sacrifice on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha this year as well

so that the meat could be delivered to the needy.

As the honourable governor was not in the city due to his busy schedule, his secretary welcomed our delegation and appreciated our efforts. The event was also attended by the assistant minister for social affairs and microfinance and he also thanked the Jamaat for its efforts. The event was covered by the digital media including ORTB, Canal 3 TV, E-Tele and the newspaper La Nation.

After the ceremony, a delegation of Jamaat Benin went to the ministry of social affairs, where the director for the disabled and elderly (who have two institutions for the care of persons with disabilities) welcomed the delegation. Sacrificial animals were offered by the delegation for the disabled. Later, sacrificial animals and other items were also offered by the delegation at the Government Mental Hospital and Civil Jail of Cotonou.

On 29 July 2020, a ceremony was held at the Governor’s House in Porto-Novo,

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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100 Years Ago...

Two Christians turn to Ahmadiyyat in England Al Fazl, 16 August 1920 Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra Dr Brandon’s letter It is the grace of Allah the Almighty that He is bringing His nobles souls into the servitude of God’s Messiah. Moreover, He is divinely guiding those people who sincerely long to meet the Promised Messiahas. As a result of God’s providence, our new brother, Dr Brandon converted to Islam by believing in the Promised Messiahas and became Abdullah from Brandon. All praise belongs to Allah who made it possible.

Dr Brandon writes: “As an individual of the true Messiah and God Jehovah’s universe, I believe that there is only one God and He is free from the conditions and limitations of trinity set by the unorthodox Christianity for the Supreme Being of God. “I sincerely believe that Muhammad[sa] is that promised Prophet of God Almighty regarding whom Prophet Jesusas had prophesied that he would come after him.

“Moreover, I believe that the Promised Messiah of God was sent in the person of Ahmadas of Qadian. In short, my belief is that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. Muhammad is the Prophet and Messenger of Allah and Ahmad is the Promised Messiah.

“I have come to this conclusion after careful consideration and deep study. Along the way, I had to fight a dangerous battle with predicaments and temptations and

encounter a variety of contrivances.

“Finally, after blind nominal following of the principles of Christian religion, I have attained that eternal life and blessings which come through the guidance of the Holy Quran. At present, hundreds of other individuals like me are ready [to do the same].

“I believe that the Holy Quran is the word of God, which was revealed to the Holy Prophetsa for the betterment of God’s creation.

“I am a servant of humanity. This is certainly my mission. Now, if God chooses me to guide people towards the way of [eternal] life, I say, ‘O God, the Lord! I am present. I am Your humble servant. Take my services for Your glory in the kingdom of faith.’”

AG Brandon DSCDB, Former Preacher of EP Mission, Jerusalem, Palestine James William Leader The news of Brother James William Leader’s conversion to Islam has been mentioned in the last the letter. Friends will be happy to hear that Brother William Leader is showing perseverance in his faith. Below is the summary of the letter that he wrote to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih: “After studying different religious sects and various faiths for three years, I find my satisfaction in the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

I have been offered the position of pastor by the Roman Catholic Church and by

many other Christian churches. However, my conscience never acknowledged [the false doctrine of] the divinity of Jesus and the concept of resurrection of Christ. That is why I have always denied this position.

Eventually, I found the final destination and had the honour of being the member of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. I am proud that I was named Mahmud after the holy leader of the Jamaat.”

Lectures Quarter weekly sermons are being delivered in Hyde Park on a regular basis. A very interesting series of questions and answers follows them for hours. Seekers of truth regularly come to the [mission] house for research. In addition to these sermons, this week, a lecture by Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal on the attributes of Islam was held at Theosophy Lodge, Croydon which was listened to attentively. At the request of the organisers of the Lodge, Maulvi Sahib will deliver another lecture over there.

Ahmadiyyat and the British Press Articles of Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sahib have been published in many magazines. Among them is the British Empire Union magazine, which has generously published an article carrying the teachings of the Promised Messiahas about Jihad, the bloody Mahdi, the pacifist friendly way of tabligh, etc. Its summary will be presented to the readers in another letter, insha-Allah.

Map of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, 1879

Eid-ul-Adha in Bulgaria

Asad Hameed Mohtamim Ishaat, MKA Bulgaria

During this year’s unique Eid-ul-Adha, Humanity First Germany, with the help of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bulgaria, had the opportunity to serve humanity by volunteering to serve those in need.

In celebration of Eid, the youth of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bulgaria helped prepare, package and distribute food packets filled with the Qurbani meat to different areas throughout Bulgaria, through the help of the local NGOs and the municipalities.

The food packages were delivered to people with special needs and those who are victims of severe poverty. This gesture was very much appreciated.

Moreover, in the city of Plovdiv (2nd largest city of Bulgaria and European capital of Culture 2019), 101 food packages were distributed to patients and medical staff at the orthopaedics and traumatology clinic at the St Georges University Hospital.

The Khuddam together with the head of the clinic personally visited and presented each patient with their lunch along with giving them sincere wishes for a speedy

recovery. All the patients as well as staff were deeply appreciative of this and thanked everyone who was there to help.

May Allah the Almighty reward all those who participated in this project. Amin.

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo donate disinfectant tunnel to Kosovo Security Force

Besmir Yvejsi Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Kosovo

Over 20 million people have contracted Covid-19 worldwide, while the number of deaths has exceeded 700,000. Kosovo, although small in population, has approached the number of 10,000 infected and about 300 deceased. Our people have a wise saying: “A friend in need is a friend indeed.”

At present, Humanity First, with its volunteers, is doing excellent humanitarian and volunteer work helping people in need in over 70 countries around the world. In these difficult times, Humanity First is coming to the aid of Kosovo as well.

On 29 July 2020, at the premises of the Medical Center of Kosovo Security Force in Prishtina, a cooperation agreement was signed between Humanity First, the Municipal Assembly of Prishtina and Kosovo Security Force (KSF).

On behalf of the KSF, the agreement was signed by the General Director of the KSF Medical Center, Dr Shkëlzen Sylaj, while on behalf of the Municipality of Prishtina

signed Mr Dren Kukaj, Directorate for Social Welfare. This agreement was intended to equip a disinfection tunnel for the needs of the KSF and to enable the disinfection of all military personnel, as well as eventual visitors.

This disinfectant tunnel contains sensors that are activated at its entrance and stop when the person comes out from the tunnel. The tunnel has a disinfection system with a capacity of one thousand litres and the beneficiaries will be about 6,500 to 7,000 people who visit these military barracks.

On 5 August 2020, in the area of​​ the barracks “Adem Jashari” of Kosovo Security Force in Prishtina, the disinfection tunnel was inaugurated, donated by the Humanity First and Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo. The inauguration was attended by senior KSF officials, officials from the Municipality of Prishtina and representatives from Humanity First and Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo.

On behalf of the KSF, the director of the Medical Center, Dr Shkëlzen Sylaj thanked Humanity First for this donation.

On behalf of the Municipality of Prishtina, Mr Premtim Fazliu, who is the Coordinator of Projects of the Social Welfare Directorate through his social network, said: “At the beginning of the pandemic, the Municipality of Prishtina started distributing food and hygiene packages to families in need. In

Jamaat Detroit celebrates Eid-ul-Adha during Covid-19 pandemic Syed Shamshad Nasir Missionary, USA

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib of Detroit Michigan reports that bearing in mind the Covid-19 circumstances, members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya across the US were advised to offer Eid prayer in their homes.

The national umur-e-ama department circulated national Amir Sahib’s instructions regarding Eid along with an “Eid-ul-Adha Home Guide” to offer the Eid prayer at homes.

Eid-ul-Adha was celebrated on 31 July 2020. Although members were not able to offer the Eid prayer in mosques, Detroit Jamaat distributed gift packs of traditional sweets and chocolates to each family home to share happiness at this blessed and happy occasion. Many members spent hours to arrange, prepare and distribute the Eid gift pack to each family.

Most of the Jamaat members offered Eid prayer with their families at their homes. Eid prayer was followed by the Eid Sermon that included a summary of the Eid Sermon delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, on MTA. Salient points of Huzoor’s Eid

sermon were mentioned in the summary.

At the conclusion of the Eid Sermon, silent prayer was offered.

A small number of members (men, women and children) offered Eid prayer at Masjid Mahmood. The missionary, Shamshad Nasir Sahib led the Eid prayer and gave the Eid Sermon where he read the key points from the Eid Sermon of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, delivered on 31 July 2020.

Shamshad Nasir Sahib also read the message of National Amir Jamaat USA, Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib and concluded the sermon with silent prayer.

In his message, Sadr Jamaat, Maqbool Tahir Sahib said, “I had hoped that we could have had the opportunity to celebrate this Eid at the mosque and met each other but due to the current situation, this is not possible. Your local coordinator will deliver a small Eid gift for your family today or tomorrow from Detroit Jamaat, insha-Allah. Eid Mubarak to you and your family” May Allah abundantly reward all the volunteers who not only prepared the Eid gift packs, but also delivered them.

addition to many volunteers, the Kosovo Armed Forces came to our aid, without whom the distribution of packages would be difficult to achieve. Today, we, the Directorate of Social Welfare, through Humanity First handed over the disinfection tunnel for the staff of Kosovo Security Force in “Adem Jashari” barrack.

So, such collaborations always result in success. Such solidarity, although even

simpler is to wear masks, keep distance and maintain personal hygiene”.

Humanity First and Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Kosovo with their motto “Love for all, hatred for none”, thanked for the Ministry of Defense (Republic of Kosovo), Kosovo Security Force and the Directorate for Social Welfare who gave them the opportunity to help in this time of need.

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Responding to Allegations

How did Hazrat Mirza as Ghulam Ahmad revive Islam?

Part III (Belief in divine books) The third article of faith in Islam is belief in the holy books of God Almighty.

Before the appearance of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, strange views had arisen among the Muslims regarding this article of faith as well. The belief in the divine books, especially the Holy Quran, was rendered incomplete and imperfect due to the concepts and false interpretations introduced by the so-called religious scholars of that time.

In Islam, the Holy Quran is the perfect source of faith because it is the only holy book that has withstood the test of time.

The belief in other scriptures is purely a matter of principle, as they neither exist in their true and actual condition, nor has Allah the Almighty commanded to follow their laws in this age.

We are overwhelmed with shock and surprise to view the beliefs of Muslims regarding the Holy Quran; this feeling arises because we have come to know the real truth by believing in the Promised Messiahas. Otherwise, like very many Muslims, we would have committed the same blunders about the Holy Quran.

Some people think that the Holy Quran was lifted from the world soon after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa and most of it had disappeared from the earth.

According to some, the present form of the Holy Quran has been corrupted by human interventions.

Certain people strongly reject such notions and refer to them as kufr [disbelief], but on the other hand, they themselves entertain such dangerous beliefs in one way or another. For instance, they say that certain verses of the Holy Quran have been abrogated and the reason of their annulment, in their view, is that the verses which are found to be contrary to other verses are null and void. As a result of this belief, certain verses were considered contrary to others by some people and various other verses were found to be conflicting each other according to another group of people, and thus, a significant part of the Holy Quran was considered to have been abrogated.

Consequently, it not only resulted in

disbelief of some parts of the Holy Quran, but another dangerous effect it created was doubt and uncertainty in the hearts and minds of people. As a result, the credibility of the book was in question because there was no way to know exactly which verses were to be considered invalid and Allah the Almighty or His messenger, Prophet Muhammadsa had also not shed light on this matter.

Another horrible misconception concerning the books of God, particularly about the Holy Quran, was that even this divine book is not free from the involvement of Satan and it is said that sometimes, Satan interferes in the revelation of God. This false assumption is centered on the following verse of the Holy Quran: َّ َ ۡ َ ّٰۤ َ َ ۤ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ ۡ َۤ ‫َو َما ا ۡر َسلنا ِم ۡن ق ۡب ِلک ِم ۡن ّر ُسوۡ ٍل ّو لَا ن ِب ٍ ّی ِالا ِاذا ت َمنی القی الش ۡی ٰط ُن‬ ُ ‫فِ ۡۤی ا ۡم ِن َّی ِت ٖہ‬ “Never sent We a Messenger or a Prophet before thee, but when he sought to attain what he aimed at, Satan put obstacles in the way of what he sought after” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.53). It is reasoned from this verse that Satan intervenes in the revelation of every prophet and adds parts to it which are not from Allah the Almighty.

The so-called commentators of the Holy Quran did consider it enough to declare this a general rule, but they also quoted an incident of the Holy Prophetsa to assert their view. They say that the Holy Prophetsa was reciting Surah al-Najm and when he reached the following verses: ٰ ۡ ّٰ َ​َ ۡ ُ َ َ َّ َ ٰ ‫اف َر َءیۡ ُت ُم الل َت َو ال ُع ّزی۔ َو َمنوۃ الثال ِثۃ الۡاخ ٰری‬ “Now tell me about Lat and Uzza and Manat, the third one, another goddess!”

(Surah al-Najm, Ch.53: V.20-21), Satan added the words: َ ُ ُ ‫تلك الغرانيق‬ ‫ وإن شفاعتهن لَترت َجى‬،‫العلى‬ [These idols, which have the status of beautiful women with beautiful necks, are expected to carry out intercession] and (God forbid) made the Holy Prophetsa utter these words from his mouth. It is said that when the disbelievers heard these words, they also prostrated.

Some people consider this story to be extremely outrageous and intolerable

and say that Satan did not make the Holy Prophetsa utter these phrases but made a voice like him and uttered those words.

The doubts that arise as a result of this false concept are baselessly dismissed by

following the verse: َّ ۡ ّٰ َُ ّٰ ُ ۡ َ ّٰ ‫ف َین َسخ الل ُہ َما یُل ِقی الش ۡی ٰط ُن ث ّم یُ ۡح ِک ُم الل ُہ ٰا ٰی ِت ٖہ ؕ َو الل ُہ َع ِل ۡی ٌم َح ِک ۡی ٌم‬ “But Allah removes the obstacles that are placed by Satan. Then Allah firmly establishes His Signs. And Allah is All-

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM Knowing, Wise” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.53). But how can one be satisfied with this answer because if satan can interfere in divine revelation, then what proof is there that this very verse is also not satanic?

And Satan, in order to satisfy the Holy Prophetsa, said that whatever is spoken by Satan is erased, so that Satan’s word may also be considered as the word of Allah.

Some people have devalued the Holy Quran to such an extent that its clear and explicit teachings have been undermined on the basis of ahadith and in the name of following the sunnah, they have made the word of Allah subject to the thoughts of some selfish and morally corrupt human beings. From their perspective, even if the Holy Quran openly rejects a matter, if it is mentioned in the weakest of ahadith, it will take precedence over divine revelation.

Certain people consider the Holy Quran to be a collection of thoughts of the Holy Prophetsa and denied that it was the divine word of God. Apparently, they consider it to be the revelation of Allah, but at the same time, they say that the ideas which occurred in the heart of the Holy Prophetsa were produced by God, so they should also be called the words of Allah, otherwise its original wording is attributed to the Holy Prophetsa.

People with a specific mindset declared that the Holy Quran cannot be translated.

This resulted in depriving the masses from comprehending the true meaning of God’s revelation and resulted in the spread of atheism.

Some say that the Holy Quran is full of taqdim and takhir, i.e. most of the times, words of the Holy Quran do not give meanings when read in the order in which they are recorded and cannot be understood unless taqdim and takhir is taken into account.

Certain people think that the Holy Quran is an abstruse and ambiguous book.

It provides hints about some important matters, but it does not present firmly grounded arguments to prove any issue.

Some have treated the word of God in such a way that all the stories and tales of the world that are rejected by common sense and are repulsive to human nature have been collected and attributed to the Holy Quran. They may be contrary to the clear teachings of the Holy Quran, but they have been added in the commentaries as the stories of Israelites. Their so-called commentators do not hesitate to attribute these fictitious tales to the saints and holy men of God. Certain people deny that there is coherence in the Holy Quran. According to them, there is no particular order or arrangement in the events and accounts described in the Holy Quran.

One of the greatest erroneous concepts spread about the revelation of Allah the Almighty is that God no longer speaks to human beings as He used to do in the past.

According to them, an attribute of God Almighty has been suspended. He sees, hears, but does not speak.

Hence, many tried their best to ruin the beauty of Holy Quran and hide its true colours from people’s eyes. Unfortunately, all these efforts were carried to serve the Holy Quran, although the result of these

efforts was that the world began to hate the teachings of the Holy Quran and its fascinating impact was removed from the hearts.

Allah the Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas in this age to remove all these misunderstandings and prove with arguments that the Holy Quran is the last guiding book of God Almighty. It is free from any kind of naskh [abrogation].

Everything in the Holy Quran is worthy of being followed by the Muslims and there is no part of it that is contrary to the other. He who disagrees with this is himself ignorant and attributes his lack of knowledge to the Holy Quran.

There has been no change in the Holy Quran and every single word of it is the same as revealed to the Holy Prophetsa.

Not only that, but no change can be made in it, neither by changing its subjects, nor by adding any new text within it, nor by reducing any part of it.

The Promised Messiahas states: “We have complete confidence in the fact that the Holy Quran is the last divine book and that not an iota or dot can be added or detracted from its laws, limits, commandments and orders. Now there is no revelation or inspiration from Allah that can modify, change or abrogate any command of the Holy Quran.” (Izala-eAuham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 3, p. 170) The Promised Messiahas emphasised that Allah the Almighty Himself is the Protector of the Holy Quran and He has created certain spiritual and physical means to protect it. Thus, human interventions cannot affect it at all. To say that any part of it has been taken from the world is to blame Allah the Almighty. Believing that the Holy Quran was changed by any human or Satan renders it doubtful and forever distrustful.

Moreover, if that was the case, it would be necessary for a prophet and a new divine law to be sent to guide the world, so that humanity would not be deprived of the true commandments of God Almighty.

The Promised Messiahas also proved that the Holy Quran and in fact, every revelation of God is free from satanic interference. He presented his personal experiences about divine blessings of Allah the Almighty and explained that if Satan cannot interfere in the revelations of a servant of the Holy Prophetsa, then it is impossible for him to intervene or change the revelations delivered to the chief of all the prophets, Muhammadsa.

The Promised Messiahas told the Muslims that the Holy Quran has been preserved by Allah the Almighty in its original form and ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa cannot be given precedence over it. The Holy Quran should not be called into question due to certain ahadith. In fact, the ahadith should be interpreted in light of the teachings and doctrines of the Holy Quran. If there arises a contradiction between the two, then those ahadith that may have been corrupted by a human being, intentionally or unintentionally, should be left out.

The Promised Messiahas, in response to those who say that the complete religion of Islam is known to us from ahadith, said that apart from the Holy Quran and

ahadith, another thing is sunnah, i.e. the actions and practices of the Holy Prophetsa.

Scores of Muslims saw tens of millions of Muslims performing that sunnah and the next generation learned from them. This sunnah also does not contradict the Holy Quran and it should be given precedence over ahadith to find the truth. Ahadith are oral traditions and there is plenty of room for doubt about their authenticity.

The Promised Messiahas rejected the idea that the Holy Quran is a compilation of the words of the Holy Prophetsa. He explained that if God Almighty can create the whole universe without the need of physical hands, then He can surely speak to his prophets and chosen ones through spiritual means and send revelations upon them.

The Promised Messiahas also rejected this notion that the word of God should not be translated and said that unless the meaning of the Holy Quran was conveyed to people, how would they be aware of its beauties and qualities.

The Promised Messiahas laid special emphasis that the Holy Quran is a complete and perfect book with unlimited knowledge and pearls of wisdom. It possesses clear and strong arguments. He said that a comprehensive book like the Holy Quran could not be found anywhere in the world.

The Promised Messiahas encouraged the Muslims to unlock the treasures of the Holy Quran by purifying themselves and referred to the following verse of the Holy Quran: َ َ ۡ َّ ۤ ُ َّ ‫لا یَ َم ّس ٗہ ِالا ال ُمط ّہرُ ۡو َن‬ “None shall touch [it] except those who are purified.” (Surah al-Waqiah, Ch.56: V.80) The Promised Messiahas presented explanations to all theological issues through the Holy Quran and refuted every objection of the opponents of Islam and proved that there is no more clear and detailed book on spiritual sciences, theology and ethics than the Holy Quran.

The Promised Messiahas also shunned the view that the Holy Quran is full of taqdim and takhir. He said that the words of the Holy Quran are so beautifully placed that they can never be removed from their assigned places. He explained this subject by interpreting different parts of the Holy

Quran and proved that there is perfect order in its words, verses and surahs. He dispelled every suspicion of those who were in doubt due to their own lack of knowledge.

The Promised Messiahas also argued that the Holy Quran is not a collection of the stories of Israelites. He said that the mere resemblance of events does not prove that the two things are in fact one and the same. If the Holy Quran describes certain events of the past in different words, it means that it does not accept the word for word description of these happenings narrated in the old scriptures. He also said that the Holy Quran is not a book of fiction. Many of the events it narrates are the predictions of the future or have deeper meanings.

The Promised Messiahas also refuted the idea that God does not speak and presented his own experience and observation. He said that no attribute of Allah the Almighty has been suspended.

He argued that while Allah still sees and hears as before, what is the reason that he has stopped speaking now?

The Shariah [divine law] is another thing and simple revelation is another.

Revelation is a means of expressing God’s love for his servant. Its closure would mean that the divine ways of showing nearness and delight have been closed. Thus, as long as humans exist in the world and as long as righteous men sincerely strive for Allah the Almighty’s love and follow the teachings of Islam, the revelation of God will continue to shower.

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra says: “The Promised Messiahas came and told us that the Quran must be followed to the letter – from beginning to end, from the ‘b’ of bismillah to the ‘s’ of ‘al-nas’. The Holy Quran is a standing instruction for us all and it must be followed till the Day of Judgement.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 2, p. 97) Hence, the Promised Messiahas cleared all the misconceptions about the third article of faith in Islam, the Holy Quran.

He restored the true greatness of the Holy Quran and brought forth its light by removing the veil which Muslims had cast upon it due to their own ignorance.

Consequently, even the non-Muslim nations were amazed to see the beauties and grace of the Holy Quran.

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Opinion

“100,000 Ahmadi Cycles” – Achieving a challenge Masood Nawaz London

Every time I clip onto my bike and ride out onto the streets of London, I try to embody Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III’srh words: “Why do you stand for buses and waste your time? Exercise, become healthy and ride a bicycle. I have said it before and I say it again today – in a short time, I want 100,000 ‘Ahmadi Cycles’. An ‘Ahmadi Cycle’ is that which is ridden by an Ahmadi. And these 100,000 Ahmadi Cycles should have the ability to cycle up to 100 miles in a day.”

(Mash‘al-e-Rah, Vol. II, p. 384) These words, promulgated at the opening speech of the Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Ijtema in Pakistan on 2 November 1973, inspirited me for the preparation of my ride from London to Jalsa Salana Germany 2017 – crossing several European borders – to follow our beloved Huzooraa and eventually arrive at Karlsruhe; a journey just shy of 600 miles recorded over six days.

During these six days, we, as the United Kingdom Ahmadiyya Cycling Club, would encounter many different types of terrain; from gravel pathways in forests to cobbled roads in Europe, ascending to gradients of 20%. To put things into context, 20% gradients alone are relatively hard on weekend rides in the Surrey Hills, a route southern British cyclist are all too familiar with, but adding cobbled roads to this, in foreign terrain, equals one big nightmare!

In goal setting, no target is insurmountable if there is a significant

@AhmadiCyclingC | Twitter

will, desire, passion and commitment to achieving it. Therefore, we often hear of people accomplishing what we, personally, may consider the impossible. But, where there is a will, anything can be achieved with Allah’s grace and blessings.

For me, my faith, trust in Allah and true love for Khilafat and all it symbolises provides the foundation and forms the very heart of any goal I seek to achieve. I often get asked how I managed to achieve the absurd physical and mental challenge of cycling 100 miles per day, consecutively over six days across Europe. How does one even decide on setting a goal such as this, let alone achieving it?

When it comes to goals, it’s important to form a solid foundation, the scaffolding,

@AhmadiCyclingC | Twitter

as such, to ensure you are prepared and primed for success. After many years, I returned to cycling and joined the Ahmadiyya Cycling Club. Two years prior to undertaking this challenge, I started working towards regaining fitness; riding regularly to work and participating in group weekend rides to either Windsor or the Surrey Hills. I integrated my cycling to running “household errands” and going shopping too. This was aligned with the desire of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh in the very same speech: “…There are thousands of other advantages to cycling too. For example, many have to go out for household errands or shopping. If you have a cycle, you will save a lot of your quality time and the following glad tiding will also be fulfilled in your person that was given to the Promised Mahdias in these words: ‘You are the sheikh, the Messiah, whose time shall not be wasted’. Thus, we have to be attentive towards timesaving and obtain maximum benefit from the little time available so that those blessings may be fulfilled in ourselves as well.” (Mash‘al-e-Rah, Vol. II, p. 383).

It goes without saying that in order to become a strong cyclist, one has to ride more. It’s true, practice really does make perfect! My cycling is based on cadence (the rate at which a cyclist pedals or the number of pedal revolutions per minute – RPMs) and less on immediate speed, per se.

During the winter season, I ride on a low cadence, pushing on higher gears: a form of resistance training for cyclists. During the summer season, maintaining a high cadence is important for efficiency and speed. Resistance training was maintained until the week before the big ride.

It’s worth noting that a higher cadence at a lower gear means you pedal faster, but in turn, put less strain and force on your muscles with each stroke. As a result, your muscles are resistant to fatigue. By increasing threshold during training, I was able to maintain a smooth cadence on higher gears, which would prevent over exertion on the actual ride.

In addition to this, I was focused on improving my general fitness and stamina as well as reducing my overall mass, in a bid to become as light as possible. I achieved this through backpacking across Europe, clocking up steps, drinking three litres of water daily, sleeping as much as possible and monitored my meals by size and nutritional value. This aided me in shedding as much weight as possible.

To go faster, especially on ascents, I

had to lose weight. I combined this with investing in lightweight clothing and equipment. During everyday walking and hiking, I would visualise the goal at hand and run through all the possible setbacks and how I would overcome the possible challenges.

Further to physical preparedness, I focused a little attention on the cycling equipment, knowing that the right gear and tools would mitigate sluggishness on the bike and facilitate success; therefore I was very fortunate to be gifted a new bike and purchased light weight clothing. The single most important piece of clothing for me was a pair of padded cycling bib shorts combined with arm and leg warmers.

We would start off the mornings fully layered up and as the day got warmer, we peeled off layers respectively. I invested in a new pair of road cycling shoes, with a carbon fibre sole. These would allow for a greater power transfer, provide greater comfort on long rides and would be lighter – perfect!

Other essential equipment was a set of lights and a Garmin GPS bike computer with navigation and connected features, namely metrics for the ride, especially cadence. For maintenance, I stocked up on half a dozen inner tubes, a multi-tool, tyre levers and a light carbon mini hand pump.

The day had arrived.

Our journey began with a silent prayer, seeking the mercy of Allah for our safety and success in this endeavour. In preparation of this beast of a ride, I had, on many occasions, visualised this moment and the many challenges that we would encounter. The main obstacles that we foresaw were safety on the road, waning will power, equipment issues, muscle soreness and fatigue.

One of the guiding principles I adopted from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh was, “All one needs to succeed is self-belief and prayer”. Following all other preparations, I consolidated my self-belief based on the underlying confidence that the prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh were tethered to each Ahmadi cyclist. The prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh were reinforced and compounded by the prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul MasihVaa. We had specifically written to Huzooraa seeking special prayers for the team of Ahmadi cyclists embarking on this premier momentous journey.

The heart and key component to my entire cycle ride was to establish alignment between my spiritual, emotional, mental

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM and physical self. I achieved this through aligning the pace, hum and rhythm of my pedalling to the melodic recitation of duas – prayers – through constant zikr (comprising of the glorification of Allah, durood, istighfar and other prayers I would recite in my vernacular language).

In all honesty, the journey and overall ride was not easy; we faced many challenges, some of which we overcame due to our preparation, while others were entirely unexpected or perhaps due to an oversight in our preparations. It is, however, the spiritual and emotional connection with the words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh that anchored and helped me to take on any challenges experienced on or off the bike. The key challenges we encountered were saddle sores (seriously unpleasant and unfortunately unavoidable), navigation issues, poor equipment, riding on rough terrain, tyre punctures – you name it, we encountered it.

A fellow team mate had no working lights in a particular dark stretch of the ride, so we rallied together as a team and arranged for him to ride in between two bikes with lights. We rode on faith and trusting Allah and the Ahmadi cyclist ahead of us. On one occasion, I found myself riding alone on the motorway after dusk, not sure how I got there and realising it was dangerous, I rode on the hard shoulder and increased the recitation of durood. Allah helped us overcome all the challenges.

There were low moments during the ride. On one such occasion, on the fourth day of the ride, I was struggling to keep seated on the saddle because of the excruciating pain from the many saddle sores I had developed over the first few days. I can’t even begin to describe the level of discomfort experienced, but I alleviated the pain by staying off the saddle or sitting at an angle and standing where possible.

These setbacks, however, were mitigated and overcome, at large, by our preparations and having a good support team assist us throughout the journey. In addition to this, the high morale of the team enabled us to naturally work things out without a losing self-belief and momentum. We successfully reached our destination with a real sense of achievement. Although I did struggle to walk and sit for long periods after this, this was a price worth paying for having achieved a decree set by Khilafat-e Ahmadiyya, and participating in my first Jalsa Salana Germany. That was a reward in itself.

Bringing this to the present day, reflecting on our current socio-economic climate, in light of the Covid-19 crisis, where we are striving to create a sense of normalcy whilst continuing to adhere to social distancing policies, the words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh are emphasised, from nearly half a century ago.

They are more relevant today, then ever before. This wisdom is echoed in numerous articles and guidance from our government, health and bike experts. In particular, the UK government’s latest initiative pledging to invest “£2 billion package to create new era for cycling and walking”. (www.gov. uk/government/news/2-billion-package-tocreate-new-era-for-cycling-and-walking) This will not only facilitate social distancing by reducing crowding on public

First virtual Talim Rally for Muqami, Canada Atfal Touseef Ahmad Rehan Nazim Atfal, MKA Muqami, Canada

Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Muqami, Canada, held a “Taleem Rally” on 19 July 2020. 189 selected Atfal from all 15 areas of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Muqami participated in 30 educational competitions. The whole rally was conducted virtually on Zoom.

As regards the publicity of the Taleem Rally, a lot of time and effort was put in; reminders were repeatedly sent to Atfal.

Detailed messages informing the parents of Atfal were repeatedly sent through WhatsApp groups and the complete programme of the rally was shared with all parents before the start.

The Taleem Rally started with an opening session at 10am at the Muqami office located on 2 Tahir Street. The session was presided by Naib Sadar Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada, Chaudhry Munir Sahib and included a keynote speech by Mohtamim Muqami on the topic of “Obedience of Parents”.

265 Atfal listened to the proceedings of the opening session.

Competitions started at 11am with Tilawat and Nazm for all age groups. Atfal of Majlis Muqami participated in these competitions with great zeal and passion, alhamdulillah. Educational competitions included tilawat, nazm, English speech, Urdu speech, French speech, azan, hifz-eQuran, hifz-e-Ad‘iya, hifz-e-ahadith and qaseedah.

We had 25 judges for the competitions who marked Atfal on the Google sheets provided to them. Certificates were made for those Atfal who achieved a topthree position and the “Best Tifl Award” was given to the tifl who won most competitions in each age group. The “Best Halqa Award” was given to Kleinburg based on the criteria that their Atfal won most competitions in all age groups combined.

This was the first time an educational really was held at such a large level with 15 halqajaat, through a virtual online platform. By the grace of Allah, this event was very successful.

transport, but will, in turn, enable us to improve our health and mental wellbeing, as well as helping to prevent further pollution.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh advised us many years ago of an exemplary and timeless coping mechanism adhering to social distancing, by travelling to work or running household errands on a bike. We

should pay heed and align our goals with the inspired words of Khilafat and start riding for our good health and wellbeing; safeguarding us from obesity and impaired mental health.

For me, cycling can be considered a metaphor for life; sometimes all you need to do is just keep on pedaling, maintain that forward momentum and overcome your

self-limiting beliefs by remaining prepared, focused and positive, whilst placing your trust in Allah and above all else, enjoy the ride. And if you fall down, just get back up again and learn from the valuable life lesson the setback offers.

So, go on, hop on your bike and increase the “Ahmadi Cycles”!

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Friday Sermon 17 July 2020 Men of Excellence After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said: In the previous sermon, I was narrating the accounts from the life of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz. While mentioning the Battle of Ditch and Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin : “In this war, the Muslims did not suffer a great loss of lives; only five or six men were martyred. Saadra bin Muaz, who was the head-chieftain of the Aus tribe sustained such a heavy wound that in the end, he could not recover. This was a loss for the Muslims which could not be compensated. Only three men from the army of the disbelievers were killed, however, in this battle, the Quraish received such a blow that afterwards, they could never muster the courage to round up a large group and set out like this again, or attack Medina. The prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa was fulfilled to the letter.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p. 595) As was mentioned in the previous sermon as well that after the Battle of Ditch, the Holy Prophetsa said, “The disbelievers will not have the courage to attack us in future.”

Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz sustained an injury to his wrist during the Battle of the Ditch which led to his martyrdom.

Hazrat Aishara relates: “I went out on the day of the Battle of the Ditch. I was following the footsteps of the people while I heard a light sound of footsteps coming from behind. When I looked back, I saw Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz along with his nephew, Harith bin Aus and he was holding a shield. I sat down on the floor. Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz went past me reciting the following couplet which was often recited during times of battle: ْ َْ ُ ْ ً َ ْ َ ْ ‫ل ِّبث قلِ ْیلا یُد ِرک الہیجَا َح َمل‬ ْ َْ َ َ َ َ ْ َْ َ َ َْ َ ‫ان الأ َجل‬ ‫ما أحسن الموت ِإذا ح‬ “Wait till hamal [the name of a camel] joins the battle; what an excellent death it is when it arrives at its appointed time.”

Hazrat Aishara further states: “Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz was wearing chain armour, yet both of his sides were exposed.” That is, due to his heavy and wide build, his sides were protruding out from the armour. She further states, “I feared that both sides of his body that are outside of the armour could get injured.”

Hazrat Saadra was very tall and of a heavy build. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 322, Saadra bin Muaz , Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz was injured

by Ibn Ariqah. Ibn Ariqah’s name was Habban bin Abd Manaf. He belonged to the Banu Amir Bin Lu‘ayy tribe. Ariqah was the name of his mother. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 3, p. 71, Zeer Lafz ‘Saadra bin Muaz’, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 2005) Hazrat Jabirra narrates: “Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz was struck by an arrow which pierced the artery in his arm. The Messengersa of Allah removed the arrowhead with his own hands and then using the same arrowhead, he cut the wound and then branded it. However, it became swollen. And so, the Holy Prophetsa again made a cut and branded

it.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitabus Salam, Bab li Kulli Da‘in Dawaa…, Hadith 2208) Hazrat Aishara narrates: “Ibn Ariqah was from among the idolaters, who was shooting arrows at Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz. Whilst firing one of the arrows, he said, ‘Take this from me!

I am Ibn Ariqah.’”

The arrow struck one of the arteries of Hazrat Saad’sra arm. After being wounded, Hazrat Saadra supplicated to Allah the Almighty in the following manner, “O Allah! Do not cause me to die until I am content that the matter concerning the Banu Qurayza has been settled.” (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

322, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Aishara relates that Hazrat Saadra sustained a wound on the day of the Battle of the Ditch. An individual from the Quraish, Habban bin Ariqah, shot the arrow at his wrist. The Holy Prophetsa erected a tent for him in the mosque so that he could stay near him and tend to him. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 325, Saad bin Muaz, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Aishara relates that the wound

of Hazrat Saadra dried and started to heal.

Upon this, he prayed, “O Allah! You are aware of the fact that there is nothing dearer to me than fighting these people in Your cause, who rejected Your Prophetsa and forced him to leave.

O Allah! I perceive that You have put an end to the war between us and them. If anything remains of the battle against the Quraish then keep me alive in order strive in Your way and fight against them.

However, if You have put an end to the war between us, as I believe, then open up my artery and let this wound be the cause of my martyrdom.”

Hazrat Aishara relates that the wound tore open the same night and his blood started to flow out. The people of the Banu Ghaffar had set up their tents in [the compound of] the Prophet’s Mosque.

When the blood flowed down and reached them, they became frightened. People said, “O people in the tent! What is this? There is blood coming from your area towards us?” They then saw that blood was coming out from the wound of Hazrat Saadra and he passed away owing to this very injury.

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates that when blood started to flow out from [the wound of] Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz, the Holy Prophetsa got up, went to him and embraced him closely with him to the point that his blood came onto the face and beard of the Holy Prophetsa. Since the blood was flowing out, people tried to protect the Holy Prophetsa from any blood going on him, but the more they would try for the blood to not come onto the Holy Prophetsa, the more he would hold him even closer and kept holding him until Hazrat Saadra passed away.

In another narration, it is mentioned that when the wound of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz tore open and the Holy Prophetsa became aware of this, he went to him, placed Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz’s head on his lap and covered him with a white cloth.

Following this, the Holy Prophetsa prayed, “O Allah! Saad fought in Your cause,

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM accepted Your Prophetsa and fulfilled whatever responsibility was entrusted to him. Thus, grant acceptance to his soul by virtue of this just as You grant acceptance of other souls.” Hazrat Saadra was almost on the brink of death but still conscious when he heard the words of the Holy Prophetsa. Upon this, he opened his eyes and said, “O Messengersa of Allah! May peace be upon you! I bear witness that you are the Messengersa of Allah!” When the family members of Hazrat Saadra saw that the Holy Prophetsa had placed Hazrat Saad’s head on his lap, they became fearful.

When the Holy Prophetsa was informed of this that the members of Saad’s family became afraid when they saw his head placed on your lap, the Holy Prophetsa said, “I pray to Allah the Almighty for there to be just as many angels present at the time of Saad’s demise as there are people present now in his home.” (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp.

325-326, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa had been gifted a cloak of fine silk. The Holy Prophetsa would forbid the wearing of silk and so people were surprised to see him with it. The Holy Prophetsa said, “By Him in Whose Hands is Muhammad’s life, the handkerchiefs of Saad bin Muaz in heaven will be more beautiful than this.” This is narrated in Bukhari. (Sahih Bukhari, Kitabul Hadiyyah, Bab Qabul al-Hadiyyah mi alMushrikeen, Hadith 2615) The companions saw the silk in the Holy Prophet’s hands and wondered whether Holy Prophetsa might use it, as he had forbidden it. However, when the Holy Prophetsa saw their reaction, he then gave this example [of Hazrat Saadra]. In fact, it is further clarified from the Hadith of Sahih Muslim that the companions expressed their astonishment [at the quality of the cloth]. It is narrated by Hazrat Baraara that a silk cloak was presented to the Holy Prophetsa as a gift, which the companions began to touch and admired its softness.

Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, “Are you admiring its softness? Surely, the handkerchiefs of Saad bin Muaz in heaven are better and softer than this.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il as-Sahabah, Bab Manaqib Faza‘il Saad bin Muaz, Hadith 2468) Hazrat Jabirra narrates, “I heard the Holy Prophetsa say that God’s throne shook upon the demise of Saad bin Muaz” – this is the narration from Bukhari. (Sahih Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib al-Ansar, Bab Manaqib Saad bin Muaz , Hadith 3803) The narration is also recorded in Muslim and states that Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates that when the coffin of Saadra bin Muaz was placed before the Messengersa of Allah, he said, “The throne of the Gracious God shook because of him.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il asSahabah, Bab Manaqib Faza‘il Saadra bin Muaz, Hadith 2467) While explaining these events with some further detail, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “The wound which Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz, chief of the Aus tribe, had

sustained on the occasion of the Battle of the Ditch, did not manage to fully heal despite tireless medical attention.

His wound would continue to tear after healing to some extent. Since he was an exceptionally sincere Companion and the Holy Prophetsa was especially concerned for his medical treatment, on the way back from the Battle of the Ditch, the Holy Prophetsa instructed that he should be kept in a tent in the courtyard of the mosque, so that the Holy Prophetsa could easily check up on his progress. Thus, he was entrusted to the care of a Muslim lady by the name of Rufaidah, who possessed expertise in medical treatment and nursing and would generally set up a camp in the veranda of the mosque in order to treat Muslims who had been wounded. However, despite this extraordinary attention, the condition of Saadra did not improve and it was during this particular time that the account of Banu Quraizah took place as well, due to which he was made to endure extreme hardship and fatigue and his illness deteriorated even further. During these very days, one night, Saadra supplicated with great emotion: “‘O My Lord! You know well the intense desire in my heart to partake in Jihad to defend Your religion in the face of that nation who has rejected Your Messengersa and exiled him from his homeland. O my Master! I perceive that war has now come to an end between the Quraish and ourselves. However, if in Your estimation there is still more conflict, then grant me enough respite that I may strive in Your cause through Jihad against them; but if our fighting them has come to an end, I no longer desire to live, let me die a martyr.’

“It is narrated that the very same night, the wound of Saadra tore open and there was so much blood loss that it began to flow out of the tent. When people rushed into the tent with concern, the condition of Saadra had seriously deteriorated. And it was in this very state, Saadra breathed his last.

“The Holy Prophetsa was deeply saddened by the demise of Saadra.

Undoubtedly, in light of the circumstances of that era, the demise of Saadra was a loss which could not be compensated.

Saadra almost possessed the same status among the Ansar which Abu Bakr Siddiqra possessed among the Muhajireen. In his sincerity, in his sacrifice, in his service of Islam, in his love for the Holy Prophetsa, this individual possessed such a lofty rank, which is attained only by a few. His every movement demonstrated that love for Islam and the Founder of Islam was the nurture of his soul. Since he was the chief of his tribe, his example had a very deep and practical influence on the Ansar.

It was only natural for the Holy Prophetsa to feel saddened upon the demise of such a worthy spiritual son. However, the Holy Prophetsa exhibited the highest level of patience and bowed his head before Divine Will with obedience and submission.

“When the funeral procession of Saadra was being lead to the graveyard, due to her love, his elderly mother lamented over him in somewhat of a loud voice. In this mourning, according to the custom of

that time, various qualities of Saadra were mentioned. When the Holy Prophetsa heard the sounds of this lamentation, although he did not approve of the custom of lamentation in principle, he said: “‘Women who lament often utter a great deal of falsehood, but at this time, whatever the mother of Saad has said is true,’” i.e. whatever qualities had been attributed to Saadra were correct. “After this, the Holy Prophetsa led the funeral prayer and accompanied the procession himself for the burial. The Holy Prophetsa remained there until the burial was complete and finally returned after he had prayed over the grave. It was perhaps during this time that on one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa said: َّ ُ ْ َ َّ َ ْ ‫الر ْح ٰم ِن ل َِم ْو ِت َس ْع ٍد‬ ‫اِھتزعرش‬ “‘Upon the demise of Saad, the throne of the Gracious God shook.’”

Others have translated that the throne shuddered and the Holy Prophetsa stated it came into motion.

“This means that the mercy of God happily welcomed the soul of Saadra in the world of the Hereafter – this is what is meant when it says that the throne of God came into motion. On one occasion, when the Holy Prophetsa received some pieces of silk cloth from someone as a gift, a few Companions spoke of their soft and gentle texture with great amazement and considered them to be out of the ordinary.

The Holy Prophetsa responded, ‘Do you marvel at the softness of these cloths? By God, the mantles of Saad in paradise are far more soft and valuable than these.’”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 613-614) In the ahadith that were mentioned before – of Bukhari and then Muslim – speak of handkerchiefs [upon which the Companions expressed their astonishment at], however Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra has translated this to mean mantle or cloak. In any case, according to the Arabic word which has been used, it can also mean cloth [i.e. handkerchief].

Hazrat Saad’sra mother continuously recited the following couplet out of her grief: ُ ُ َ ‫َویْل أ ِ ّم َس ْع ٍد َس ْعدا‬ َ َ ً َ ‫ب َ َراعۃ َو ن ْجدا‬ َ َ َ َ َ ‫ب َ ْعد أیَا ٍد یَا ل ٗہ َو م ْجدا‬ َّ َّ َّ َ ‫ُمقد ًما َسد بِ ٖہ َم َسدا‬ “The mother of Saad grieves the loss of Saad; an embodiment of intellect and valour; bravery and civility incarnate.

What can be said of the grandeur of that time; a leader who filled all voids.”

Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said: ْ ْ ُّ ُ َ ُ َّ ‫ک ْی یَک ِذبْ َن ِإلا أ ّم َس ْع ٍد‬ ِ ‫کل ال َب َوا‬ “Every woman who wails upon someone’s demise utters falsehood” i.e. unnecessarily over exaggerates when mentioning him, “except the mother of Saad.”

This reference is from Al-Tabaqaat alKubra. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 328, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Saadra was of a heavy build and when his body was lifted, the hypocrites said, “We have never seen the coffin of

any man to be so light as that of Hazrat Saadra.” They continuously said that this was because of the decision he had made regarding the Banu Quraiza, i.e. they wished to present this in a negative light.

When the Holy Prophetsa was informed of this, he said, “By Him in Whose Hands in my life, the reason you perceive the coffin of Saadra to be light is because angels are carrying it.” According to another narration, the Holy Prophetsa said that “There are seventy thousand angels present at the funeral of Saad bin Muaz, who have never descended upon the earth until today.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 328, Saad bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 464, Saad bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) It is narrated by Hazrat Aishara, “I saw the Holy Prophetsa walking in front of the funeral procession of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 329, Saad bin Muaz, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudrira relates, “I was among those who dug the grave of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz in Jannatul Baqi.

When we would dig into the ground, we could smell musk from inside, until we had dug the entire grave. The Holy Prophetsa arrived once we had finished digging the grave. The coffin of Hazrat Saadra was placed beside the grave, and the Holy Prophetsa led the funeral prayer.”

The narrator of this tradition states, “I saw so many people, that Jannatul Baqi was completely full.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 329-330, Saad bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Abdur Rahman bin Jabir relates from his father, “When Hazrat Saad’sra grave was prepared, the following four people: Harith bin Aus, Usaid bin Hudair, Abu Naila Silkaan bin Salama and Salama bin Salaama bin Wakhsh went down into the grave. The Holy Prophetsa was standing towards the feet of Hazrat Saadra; when Hazrat Saad’sra body was lowered into the grave, the complexion of the Holy Prophet’ssa face changed. He proclaimed ‘Subhanallah’ (Holy is Allah) three times; all the companions repeated after him and said ‘Subhanallah’ three times to the point that it echoed throughout Jannatul Baqi. Then, the Holy Prophetsa proclaimed ‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is the Greatest) three times; the companions repeated ‘Allahu Akbar’ after him to the point that the words echoed throughout Jannatul Baqi. It was said to the Holy Prophetsa, ‘O Messengersa of Allah, we saw that change in complexion on your countenance and you proclaimed “Subhanallah” three times; what was the reason for this?’

The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘The grave was narrow and Saad’s body was pressed in. And if anyone was to be saved from this it was surely Saad. Thus, Allah the Almighty expanded the grave for him.”

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 330, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Miswar bin Rifa’ Qurzi relates that Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz’s mother came to

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

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lower him into the grave but was told to return. The Holy Prophetsa said, “Let her stay.” She came and saw Hazrat Saadra in the grave before any bricks or soil was laid over the grave and said, “I am certain you are with Allah.” The Holy Prophetsa offered his condolences to Hazrat Saad’sra mother by the grave and then sat to the side. When the Muslims placed the soil onto the grave and made it even and sprinkled water over it, the Holy Prophetsa returned beside the grave, stood there for some time, prayed and then left.

Hazrat Aishara narrates, “Aside from the Holy Prophetsa and two of his companions, Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, no one’s departure was more difficult to bear for the Muslims than that of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz.”

Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz was 37 years of age at the time of his demise. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp.

330-331, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The Holy Prophetsa said to the mother of Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz, “Will your sorrow not end and will your tears not cease? For your son is the first person for whom Allah Almighty smiled and for whom His throne shook.” (Al-Tabaqaatul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 332, Saadra

bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) When the Holy Prophetsa had buried Hazrat Saadra and returned from his funeral, tears were flowing down to his beard. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 463, Saadra bin Muaz, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) There is a narration of Hazrat Saadra in which he said, “No doubt I am weak, but there are three things in which I am resolute”; there were three things which he said about himself that despite being weak, he would follow them meticulously.

“First, whatever I heard from the Holy Prophetsa I found to be true (he never had any reservations). Second, I never let any thought other than that of prayer come into my mind while offering prayer”; he offered prayer with great concentration.

“Third, there was no funeral in which I would not put myself in place of the deceased and think, ‘What will he say and what will be asked of him?’ As if I was the one who was being questioned (he was mindful of the hereafter).” (Majma‘ azZawa‘id, Kitabul Manaqib, Bab Ma Ja‘a fi Usaid bin Hudair, Hadith 15689, Vol. 9, p. 375, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001) Hazrat Aishara used to say, “There

were three people from the Ansar who were all from Banu Abd Ash‘al, and except for the Holy Prophetsa, no one was given superiority over them. They were Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz, Hazrat Usaidra bin Hudair and Hazrat Abaadra bin Bishr.” (AlIsabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 3, p. 71, Zeer Lafz ‘Saadra bin Muaz’, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) The next companion to be mentioned is Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas. Hazrat Saad’s title was Abu Ishaq. His father’s name was Malik bin Uhaib, and according to other narrations was Malik bin Wuhaib.

However, his father was more prominently known by his title of Abu Waqqas, hence his name is Saad bin Abi Waqas. His mother’s name was Hamna bint Sufyan.

(Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, pp. 606-607, Dar-ul-Jeel, Beirut) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 101, Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas belonged to the Banu Zuhrah from the Quraish.

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p. 123) (Sirat ibn Hisham, Vol. 1, pp. 680-681, Min Bani Zuhrah, Maktabah Mustafa al-Babi wa al-Halabi wa Awladuhu, Egypt, 1955) Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas was among those ten companions whom the Holy Prophetsa gave glad-tidings of paradise during their lifetime. These ten companions are known as the Ashrah Mubashrah and Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas was the last among them to pass away. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 324, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) All of these companions, i.e. the Ashrah Mubasharah were from among the Muhajireen [i.e. those who migrated from Mecca to Medina] and the Holy Prophetsa was pleased with them at the time of his demise. In relation to his acceptance of faith, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas relates: “The day I accepted Islam, no one else accepted Islam on that day. I waited for seven days and the condition at the time was such that I made up one third of the total Muslims, I.e. there were only three of us.”(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib AnNabi, Bab Manaqib Saad bin Abi Waqas, Hadith 3727) (Sahih Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib Al-Ansar, Bab Islam, Hadith 3858) Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas states that he accepted Islam even before the obligatory prayers had been prescribed.

(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 453, Saad bin Malik, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Narrating the account of his acceptance of Islam, Hazrat Saad’s daughter relates that Hazrat Saadra stated: “I saw in a dream that it was extremely dark and I could not see anything.

Suddenly, I saw that the moon had risen and I began walking towards it. However, I noticed that Hazrat Zaidra bin Haritha, Hazrat Alira and Hazrat Abu Bakrra had started walking towards the moon before me. I asked them when they reached and they replied that they had just reached.”

Hazrat Saadra further states that by then, he already knew that the Holy Prophetsa was discreetly inviting people to Islam. Thus, he went to Shai‘b Ajyaad

to meet the Holy Prophetsa. Ajyaad is the name of a place situated next to the mountain of Saffa in Mecca where the Holy Prophetsa used to graze sheep. The Holy Prophetsa had just finished his Asr prayer when Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas arrived and became a Muslim after doing the Bai‘at. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 455, Saad bin Malik, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, pp. 63-64) (Farhang Sirat, p. 30, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi, 2003) The daughter of Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Aisha bint Saad narrates, “I heard my father say that when he accepted Islam; he was 17 years old.” According to other narrations, it is mentioned that when he accepted Islam he was 19 years old. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

103, Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) From among the pioneer Muslims, there were five individuals who accepted Islam owing to the preaching of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and later went on to become some of the most distinguished companions of a lofty status. The third person [out of these five] was Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas.

This has been taken from Sirat KhatamanNabiyyin where it is stated that he was a youth when he accepted Islam, i.e. he was 19 years old at the time.

Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas belonged to the Banu Zuhrah tribe and was a very brave and courageous individual.

During the Caliphate of Hazrat Umarra he conquered Iraq and passed away during the reign of Amir Muawiyahra. (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 122-123) Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas has recorded many narrations from the Holy Prophetsa. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 324, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) Musab, Hazrat Saad’s son, states that his father said to him, “My mother (i.e.

Hazrat Saad’s mother) had made an oath that she would never speak to him unless he abandons his faith” i.e. until he forsakes Islam. Accordingly, she stopped eating and drinking. Hazrat Saadra further stated, “My mother said to me, ‘You say that Allah the Almighty instructs you to show kindness to your parents. I am your mother and therefore I instruct you to leave this faith and listen to what I have to say.’” The narrator states that she remained in this state [without food and drink] for three days and due to extreme weakness, she was in a state of semi consciousness. Her son, Amarah, went to bring water and gave it to her. When she regained consciousness, she began to curse Hazrat Saadra. On this occasion Allah the Almighty revealed the following verse: ً َ ‫َو َو َّص ْی َنا الْإن ْ َس‬ ‫ان ِبوَال َِدیْ ِہ ُح ْسنا‬ ِ ‘And We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents.’ [Ch.29: V.9] The verse is from Surah Al-Ankabut.

Further, in Surah Luqman, it is stated: َ ُْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ‫اہ َداک َع ٰلى أ ْن تش ِرک ِب ْی‬ ‫وإِن ج‬ “And if they contend with thee to make thee set up equals with Me… obey them not.” [Ch.31: V.16]

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Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM It is also mentioned: ً ْ ُّ ‫الدن َیا َم ْعرُ ْوفا‬ ‫َو َصا ِح ْب ُہ َما فِی‬ “But be a kind companion to them in all worldly affairs.” [Ch.31: V.16] (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il asSahabah, Bab Fadl Saad bin Abi Waqqas, Hadith 1748) If the question arises of associating partners with God Almighty, then one should not obey them. This matter is then discussed here in detail, but as far as worldly relations is concerned, one must show them compassion. ً ْ ُّ ‫الدن َیا َم ْعرُوفا‬ ‫َو َصا ِح ْب ُہ َما فِی‬ “But be a kind companion to them in all worldly affairs.” [Ch.31: V.16] The first narration was from [Sahih] Muslim. From another source, it is mentioned in a book of history that Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas stated, “I loved my mother dearly, but when I accepted Islam, she said, ‘What sort of religion have you accepted. Either you forsake this faith or I will stop eating and drinking until death overtakes me.’”

Hazrat Saadra states that he said to his mother, “My dear mother! Please do not do this, because I will never forsake my religion.” Hazrat Saadra further narrates, “For one day and one night, my mother did not eat or drink anything and as a result her health deteriorated. At this point, I said to her, ‘By Allah! If you had a thousand lives and lost each of them, one after the other, I would still not abandon my faith.’” When his mother saw this reaction, she began to eat and drink. It was on this occasion that God Almighty revealed the following verse: ُ َ ْ َ ُْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ ‫اہ َداک َع ٰلى أ ْن تش ِرک ِب ْی َما ل َ ْی َس لَک ِب ٖہ ِعل ٌم فلَا ت ِط ْع ُہ َما‬ ‫وإِن ج‬ ً ْ ُ ْ َ َ ْ ُّ ‫َو َصا ِح ْب ُہ َما فِی الدنیا معروفا‬ “And if they contend with thee to make thee set up equals with Me concerning which thou hast no knowledge, obey them not, but be a kind companion to them in all worldly affairs.” [Ch.31: V.16] (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 455, Saad bin Malik, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) The Holy Prophetsa would call Hazrat Saadra his maternal uncle. (Ashab-e-Badr, Qazi Muhammad Sulaiman Salman Mansur Puri, p. 91, Maktabah Islamiyyah, Lahore, 2015) On one occasion, Hazrat Saadra was approaching and on seeing him, the Holy Prophetsa said, “My uncle approaches; how great indeed is he! If anyone has an uncle the likes of mine, let him show us.”

Imam Tirmidhi has stated the reason for this was that just like the Holy Prophetsa’s mother belonged to the Banu Zuhra tribe, so did Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas’ mother. (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitabul Manaqib, Bab Manaqib Abu Ishaq Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Hadith 3752) Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa was standing on Mount Hira when it began shaking. The Holy Prophetsa then said, “Remain still, O Hira, for there is none upon this mount except for a prophet, siddiq [truthful] or a shaheed [a martyr].” On the mount at the time stood the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Uthmanra, Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Talhara bin Ubaidillah, Hazrat Zubairra bin Al-Awam and Hazrat

Saadra bin Abi Waqas. This narration is from [Sahih] Muslim. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il as-Sahabah, Bab Faza‘il Talhah wa Zubair, Hadith 2417) In the early days of Islam when the Muslims would pray in secrecy, on one occasion Hazrat Saadra was offering prayers in one of the valleys around Mecca along with some other companions. The idolaters saw them and began making fun of the Muslims and criticising Islam, to the extent that it led to a quarrel. Hazrat Saadra hit one of the idolaters over the head with a bone of a camel, with such force that his head was cut open. Thus, this was the first blood that was drawn in Islam. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 324, , Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) When the disbelievers of Mecca imposed a boycott on the Muslims and they were besieged in the Valley of Abu Talib. Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas was among the Muslims that suffered these hardships. Mentioning this incident in Sirat Khataman Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “To read about the difficulties and hardships that these detainees were compelled to bear makes the body tremble.

Companions of the Holy Prophetsa narrate that sometimes, like animals, they survived by eating the leaves of wild trees. Saadra bin Abi Waqas states that once, during the night, his foot fell upon something that seemed to be moist and soft (perhaps it was the piece of a date). At that time, he was in such a state of hunger that he immediately picked it up and swallowed it. He states, ‘Until this day, I do not know what that thing was.’ On another occasion, due to extreme hunger, when he found a dry piece of skin on the ground, he took it, softened it and cleaned it with water, cooked it and ate it. He spent three days in this state of divine hospitality.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 166-167) When Allah the Almighty commanded the Muslims to migrate, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas also migrated to Medina and stayed with his brother Utbah bin Abi Waqas, who was an idolater. Utbah had killed someone in Mecca and thus he fled to Medina and settled there. (Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, pp. 66-67) Hazrat Saadra was amongst the first people to migrate. (Umdatul Qari, Vol. 1, p. 305, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001) The Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas and Hazrat Musabra bin Umair, whereas according to another narration the bond of brotherhood was established between Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas and Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz. (Al-Tabaqaat-ulKubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 103, Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Maulana Ghulam Bari Sahib Saif has presented a justification for the difference between the two narrations. He states that perhaps in Mecca, the bond of brotherhood was established with Hazrat Musabra bin Umair and in Medina it was established with Hazrat Saadra bin Muaz.

(Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, p. 64) Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas was a brave and skilled cavalier from among the Quraish. During battles, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas was one of the companions who were entrusted with the responsibility of guarding the Holy Prophetsa. (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 325, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) Abu Ishaq narrates that there were four powerful fighters among the companions of the Holy Prophetsa: Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas. (Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p. 325, Darul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) After the migration to Medina, the Muslims remained fearful of an attack by the disbelievers and owing to this apprehension, they found it difficult to sleep at night. The Holy Prophetsa would remain awake at night. In this regard, there is a narration by Hazrat Aishara in which she states: “Upon arrival in Medina, on one night, the Holy Prophetsa had difficulty sleeping.

He then prayed, ‘If only a suitable man from among my companions were to stand guard.’” Hazrat Aishara further narrates, “We were still in this state when we heard the clanking of arms. The Holy Prophetsa enquired who it was. The reply from the individual stood outside was, ‘It is I, Saad bin Abi Waqqas.’ The Holy Prophetsa enquired as to why he had come, to which he replied, ‘My heart was perturbed about you, therefore I came to stand guard.’

The Holy Prophetsa prayed for Saadra and then fell asleep.” (Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 282-283) (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il as-Sahabah, Bab Fadl Saad bin Abi Waqas, Hadith 2410) This narration is mentioned in both Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, but the details of the prayer are not mentioned.

However, Imam Tirmidhi has recorded the details of the prayer under the virtues of Hazrat Saadra. In this narration, Hazrat Saad’s son, Qais narrates: “My father used to say that the Holy Prophetsa prayed for him in the following manner: َ ْ ‫اَ ّٰلل ُہ َّم‬ ‫اس َت ِج ْب ل َِس ْع ٍد ِاذا َد َعا‬ ‘O Allah! Accept the prayer of Saad whenever he prays to you.’”

In Ikmaal fi Asma ir-Rijaal, it is written that the Holy Prophetsa prayed: َ َ ّٰ َ َ ‫الل ُہ ّم َس ِّد ْد َس ْھ َم ٗہ َوا ِج ْب َد ْعوَت ُہ‬ “O Allah! May Saad’s arrow always land on its target and accept his prayers.”

(Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, pp. 67-68) Owing to this prayer of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqqas was known for the acceptance of prayers.

(Al-Isabah fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, pp. 324-325, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2001) Once, a person accused Hazrat Saadra of falsehood. Hazrat Saad prayed, “O Allah! If he [i.e. the accuser] is lying, then relinquish him of his sight, may he live a long life and may he be struck with misfortune.” Thus, that individual endured all three of these things. (Jami‘ al-Ulum wa al-Hakam fi Sharh Khamsin Hadithan min

Jawami’il Kalam, Vol. 2, p. 350, Mu‘assisah al-Risalah, Beirut, 2001) In one narration Qais bin Abi Hazim states: “Once, I was going to the marketplace in Medina. When I reached Ahjar Al-Zaid, I saw a large crowd had gathered around an individual on a mount who was cursing Hazrat Alira. In the meantime, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas came and stood amongst the people and enquired about what was the cause of the commotion.

The people replied that the individual was uttering profanities against Hazrat Alira.

The people gave way for Hazrat Saadra to move forwards until he stood right in front of the individual and asked him, ‘Why are you cursing Hazrat Alira? Did he not accept Islam from its inception? Was he not the first person to offer prayers alongside the Holy Prophetsa? Is he not the most pious amongst the people? Is he not the most knowledgeable amongst the people? Did the Holy Prophetsa not give his daughter’s hand in marriage to him, thereby granting him the honour of becoming his son-in-law? Was he not carrying the flag during the battles fought alongside the Holy Prophetsa?’”

The narrator further states: “Hazrat Saadra then turned to face the Qiblah, and lifting his hands for prayer, he supplicated, ‘O Allah! If this individual has cursed one of the friends of Allah (i.e.

Hazrat Alira) then make him a sign of Your Power before this crowd disperses.’”

This is a narration of Mustadrak and the narrator is Qais. He states, “By God! The crowd had not yet dispersed when the mount he was riding caused him to fall.

It placed its feet on his head and stamped on his head and crushed it, causing his death.” (Al-Mustadrak Ala al-Sahihain, Kitab Marifatu al-Sahabah, Bab Saad bin Abi Waqas, Hadith 6121, Vol. 3, pp. 571572, Dar-ul-Kutub Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) There is a similar account of Hazrat Saadra standing guard on the occasion of the Battle of the Ditch just as he spent the night standing guard immediately after the Holy Prophet’ssa migration to Medina.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “Hazrat Aishara narrates, ‘The Holy Prophetsa had become extremely tired from standing guard and keeping vigilant in the nights. The Holy Prophetsa would also stand on guard in the nights along with the other companions. When his body could no longer bear the intense cold temperature, the Holy Prophetsa would return and lay down beside me in a blanket and as soon as his body would become warm, he would return to guard the damaged part of the ditch. Having not slept continuously for many days, the Holy Prophetsa one day became extremely exhausted and wished some devoted Muslim would come [and relieve him of the physical labour of guarding the ditch in the cold of the night] and he could sleep in ease. Soon he heard a voice. It was Saadra bin Abi Waqas. The Holy Prophetsa asked him why he had come. “To stand guard for you”, said Saadra. “There is no need to stand guard for me”, said the Holy Prophetsa. “A part of the ditch is damaged.

Go and guard it so that the Muslims

Friday 14 August 2020 | AL HAKAM

20 may be safe.” And so, Saadra went and the Holy Prophetsa was able to sleep for a short while.”’” (Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, p. 279) The remaining accounts of Hazrat Saadra will be related in the future sermon, insha-Allah.

Now, I will lead the funeral prayer in absentia for three deceased members. The first is of respected Master Abdus Sami Khan Kathigri, who passed away on 6 July in Rabwah: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

The deceased was born in 1937 in Qadian. His father, Abdul Rahim Sahib Kathigri was among the longstanding members who have served the community.

His grandfather, Hazrat Chaudhry Abdus Salaam Khan Sahib Kathigrira was a companion and had the honour of doing Bai‘at at the blessed hand of the Promised Messiahas in 1903.

Master Sami Sahib acquired his primary education in Qadian and did his matriculation exams in Rabwah having migrated there after the partition. He has one son and one daughter and his wife passed away a few years ago. After completing his BSc in 1960, he began to teach in Talim-ul-Islam school on a temporary basis and after completing his BEd in 1962 he was formally appointed as a teacher. In 1969, he completed his MEd from the Punjab University Lahore and became a senior teacher. In 1972, he was appointed as the headmaster of Talim-ulIslam High School in Rabwah. However, since school was nationalised, he was then transferred by the government in 1970 to another school. Thereafter, he taught in various schools. From 2005 to 2009, he served as the Zaim of Ansarullah and from 2013 to 2016, he had the opportunity to serve as the local president for Dar-ulRehmat Sharqi in Rabwah. He was also my teacher and would teach in a very excellent

manner. He would always have a kind expression on his face and would explain in a very excellent manner. May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy and elevate his station. May He enable his progeny to also remain attached with the Jamaat and Khilafat.

The next funeral is of respected Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib, who passed away on 28 May at the age of 83: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

He was the son of respected Syed Sadiq Ali Sahib and Syeda Salma Begum Sahiba, daughter of Syed Mehbub Alim Bihari Sahib. He was born in the blessed village of Qadian and grew up in its pure and holy environment. His father, Syed Sadiq Ali Sahib of Sihranpur took the Bai‘at at the blessed hand of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib’s maternal grandfather, Hazrat Syed Mehbub Alim Sahib Bihari was honoured with martyrdom after being shot by the opponents on 19 September 1947 during the time of partition in Qadian.

The brother of Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib’s maternal grandfather, Hazrat Syed Mehboob Alim Sahib served as the auditor of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya. He also had the honour of walking by foot from Bihar to Qadian in order to do the Bai‘at.

Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib also had the opportunity to serve as the local president of the Earlsfield Jamaat in the UK. After taking retirement, he also had the opportunity to serve for 16 years as a volunteer in respected Amir Sahib UK’s office. He rendered his duty in an extremely diligent manner. His expression would always reflect kindness and had a very light-hearted nature. He would carry out his work very attentively and would never work in a way whereby he would become overwhelmed or cause distress to others. In fact, he would try to work in a manner whereby he would try to

personally do all the work and even help others in their work as well.

His marriage took place in 1968 with respected Aisha Sadiq Sahiba, daughter of Babu Muhammad Alim Sahib, a retired station master. While in Rabwah, his wife also had the opportunity to serve in various departments of the auxiliary organisation of Lajna. Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib had two sons and two daughters. One of his sons, Dr Kalimullah Sadiq Sahib does a lot of volunteer work in MTA. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib was very regular in his Tahajud. When he travelled to perform the Umrah, he was suffering severe knee problems and his wife states that despite being provided with a wheelchair, he stated that he wanted to attain the rewards of Umrah and will perform it by foot.

Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib was also very mindful of paying his Chandas.

Many people, including his children, have written to me about his various qualities. No doubt, children mention the qualities and from the manner in which his children are masha-Allah attached to the Jamaat, it is evident that Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib instilled the love of Khilafat and the Jamaat in his children’s hearts and has raised them up in an excellent manner. However, as the Holy Prophetsa has stated that one’s neighbours and acquaintances are the ones who truly testify a person’s piety and conduct and this indeed has been fulfilled in Syed Mujeebullah Sadiq Sahib. He not only helped his non-Ahmadi neighbours himself but also encouraged his children to help them as well. Upon his demise, these neighbours were extremely sad.

Similarly, all of his colleagues in the office have particularly mentioned his qualities of possessing a good nature, working with great dedication and attention and also assisting his fellow work colleagues. He did his own work and also helped serve

others as well, for example he would even make the tea himself and offer it to them.

When I moved to Islamabad last year, he was very concerned as to how he would be able to offer his Friday prayers behind me and also shared his concern with me as well during a mulaqat. However, I assured him that insha-Allah the Friday prayers would mostly be offered in Baitul Futuh and whenever it’s offered in Islamabad, then he could come here. Upon hearing this, his face lit up with joy. In order to keep his children close to the mosque after the migration of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, he purchased a house close to Masjid Fazl and would travel daily for an hour for work himself, but so long as his children remained attached to the mosque. This was the same concern he had now as well that by moving far away, how would he be able to offer his Friday prayers.

In any case, he was an extremely devout and pious individual. He lived his life with utmost loyalty and dedication and tried to instil this amongst his children as well. May Allah the Almighty grant him His mercy and forgiveness and elevate his station. May He also enable his children to remain attached to Khilafat and the Jama’at according to his expectation, in fact even beyond that. May Allah the Almighty also keep his wife in His protection and grant her the means of comfort and peace.

The details of the third funeral have already been mentioned in a previous sermon but was not offered last week. The funeral is of Rana Naeemuddin Sahib who served the Jamaat for a long time and was also an aseer rah-e-Maula [prisoned due to his faith]. I will also lead his funeral prayer after the Friday prayers along with the other funerals, insha-Allah. May Allah the Almighty grant them all His forgiveness and mercy.

(Original Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International, 7 August 2020, pp. 5-10.

Translated by The Review of Religions.)

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Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | Sub-Editorial Ataul Fatir Tahir | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2020