Al Hakam - 25 September 2020

The Promised Messiah’s prayer in the field of Arafat, Mecca

Where stars descend

Freedom of speech

Living longer

Chapter 7 (Reaching the corners of the Earth)

France’s double standards and what Islam advises

The Roseto effect

Part III Page 5

A

Page 6

Page 10

Page 8

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 25 September 2020 | Issue CXXXII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Injustices thrive through Western banks: Absolute justice requires recognising God Scores of injustices and atrocities committed by the Western world are not hidden from public view; they continue under the nose of society. However, most injustices boil and thrive behind curtains, hidden from public view or understanding.

The latest FinCEN Files about criminal money flow – up to two trillion dollars’ worth of transactions – unveil how Western banks and even governments have allowed widespread money laundering, facilitating economic inequality, draining public funds, undermining democracy and destabilising nations. “‘Some of these people in those crisp white shirts in their sharp suits are feeding off the tragedy of people dying all over the world,’ said Martin Woods, a former suspicious transactions investigator for Wachovia.” (www.buzzfeednews.com/article/ jasonleopold/fincen-files-financial-scandalcriminal-networks) Continued on page 3

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

Prayer for complete trust in God Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa routinely recited this prayer. َ َ ُ ْ َّ َ َ َ ُ َ َ َ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ َّ ُ ّ ٰ ‫آ� ْنت َو َعل ْیﻚ ت َو�لت َو ِإل ْیﻚ‬ ‫ا���ﻢ لﻚ أسلﻤت وبِﻚ‬ َّ َ ٰ َ َ َّ ُ ْ ُ َ ّ َ ُ ّ ٰ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ُ ْ َ َ ّ ‫أنﺒت وبِﻚ ﺧاﺻﻤت ا���ﻢ ِإنِي أﻋوذ بِ ِ��تِﻚ لا ِإ�� ِإلا‬ َ َّ ْ َ ْ َ َّ ُ َ َ ْ َ ْ ْ ُ ْ ُ ‫أنت أ ْن ت ِضل ِ� ْ� أنت الحَ ُّى ال ِﺬ ْي لا ﻳ َ ُﻤ ْوت َوال ِ� ّن َوال ِ�� ُﺲ‬ ُ ‫ﻳ َ ُﻤ ْوت ْو َن‬ “O Allah, I have entrusted everything unto You, believe in You, trust in You and am inclined towards You. With Your name, I face the enemy. O Allah, I seek refuge in Your honour. There is none worthy of worship except You. Do not lead me astray. You are the Ever Living Being Who is Immortal, while human beings and jinns will perish ultimately.”

(Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Zikr)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Worship has been invested with pleasure and delight What is the formal Namaz? It is a special form of supplication to the Divine, but people consider it to be a tax that is due to kings. These foolish people do not even know that God Almighty has no need for such things. What need does His Independent Being have for man to pray to Him, extol His glory and praise Him, besought of all as He is?

In fact, it is man who derives benefit and reaches his objective through these means. It gives me great pain to observe that in this day and age there is no love for worship, virtue and piety.

Continued on page 4

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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This Week in History 25 September - 1 October In this, the 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

25 September 1893: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira assuring him that his post was being delivered from Qadian without any delays, but perhaps some other factors were delaying their prompt delivery. Huzooras also updated him regarding the publishing of new books; two in Arabic and one in Urdu. This letter’s envelope read: “Towards Montgomery at Sadar Kachehri; To my respected brother, Munshi Rustam Ali, Court Inspector Police.”

This was the post where Hazrat Munshi Sahibra was transferred after the immense prayers of his beloved master, the Promised Messiahas. In those days, Montgomery District was an administrative district of the former Punjab Province of British India, in what is now Pakistan.

Named after Sir Robert Montgomery, it laid Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira in the tract between the Sutlej and the Ravi rivers. The administrative headquarters was the town of Montgomery, present-day Sahiwal. In 1978, the name of Montgomery District was changed to Sahiwal District.

26 September 1887: The Promised Messiahas was concerned about the deteriorating and feeble health of his daughter, Ismat, who was not accepting some other intake options. On this date, he wrote a letter to one of his close friends, Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, who lived in a nearby city, asking him to send a packet of soft English biscuits, which was worth one rupee and two annas. In those days, Qadian was a small village and didn’t have many basic food items, but Huzooras always went out of his way to cater for his guests and companions.

26 September 1887: The Promised Messiah sent another letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, reminding and updating him of multiple tasks, which Munshi Sahib was earlier assigned with. This letter also sheds light on another extreme reality the Promised Messiahas was facing in that time, as Huzooras shared with Munshi Sahibra that the new maid he had requested for his children must be extremely wise, pious and cautious because local Hindus and even some mischievous Muslim elements were planning to poison his son. as

26 September 1887: The Promised Messiahas sent a short note to Hazrat Mian Abdullah Sanaurira that the deadline for the request he had made

earlier was fast approaching and this loyal and reliable friend ought to be in the company of Hazrat Ahmadas in the coming few days. Huzooras directed him to reach Qadian, provided there was no inconvenience.

Otherwise, Huzooras said, he should promptly inform him about his situation and decision.

time, so much so that sometimes, he cannot find enough time to pray for these matters. Huzooras stated he was planning to issue an announcement for his Jamaat members so that they could donate in the cause of Allah and wanted to mention the name of Seith Sahibra as an example.

27 September 1896: On this day, the Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, saying he was rather unwell. He also said that a water-well was being constructed there for guests. Huzooras carried on that a well was most needed, but there were not enough funds.

Huzooras had asked others for chanda, but it did not prove adequate to accomplish the task.

Hazrat Mian Abdullah Sanaurira

26 September 1888: In a letter, the Promised Messiahas congratulated Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira on his promotion to the post of court inspector in the police. Hazrat Ahmadas asked him about some announcements that were sent Huzooras, whose acknowledgement was still pending by Munshi Sahibra.

26 September 1894: The Promised Messiahas received a letter from Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, which expressed his perturbing state of mind regarding the outcome of Huzoor’s prophecy about Abdullah Atham. On this date, Hazrat Ahmadas replied to his letter and informed him that his new book, addressing the issue in details, titled Anwar-ul-Islam, would be out from the press in the coming three to four days and it would suffice his uncertainty and would soothe his feelings hopefully. Huzooras also advised him to visit Qadian and to stay in his company for at least a week. While concluding his reply, the Promised Messiahas informed him about the exceeding number of guests in Qadian, which naturally delayed the correspondence operations.

26 September 1899: The Promised Messiahas sent a letter of confirmation to Hazrat Seith Haji Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra on this date that 100 rupees had been received. Hazrat Ahmadas shared that owing to the scarcity of rainfall, drought and famine seemed imminent. Huzooras also wrote that the expenditures of the Langar were increasing day by day; for example, every month, flour worth 200 rupees was being bought and Huzooras estimated that in the current month, it would exceed to 500 rupees. Huzooras added that the limited availability and soaring prices of dried firewood logs were also a cause of concern. Hazrat Ahmadas drew a painful scenario regarding the limited resources against the momentous projects to be achieved and concluded that sometimes, these frequent disturbances consume his precious

In this backdrop, Huzooras asked Munshi Sahibra if he could send chanda in advance as it would be very helpful in completing the well. Hazrat Ahmadas penned the final line of this letter by saying that owing to excessive weakness, he could not write more.

28 September 1887: The Promised Messiahas received a bitter and furious reply from Maulvi Muhammad Hussain of Batala. On the same date, Huzooras dispatched yet another detailed reply to dispel his baseless misconceptions and pacify his seething condition as he had earlier remained a staunch proponent and advocate of Huzoor’s selfless services for the cause of Islam and Muslims. Hazrat Ahmad’sas modesty and compassion for the masses can easily be seen in this letter. (Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 1, p. 307) 28 September 1891: The Promised Messiahas sent a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira asking him to reinvestigate, with more precise information, about the nikah of Mirza Ahmad Baig’s daughter, as people in Qadian could not verify this news which was earlier shared by Munshi Sahibra. The Promised Messiahas also asked him to share what a Sultan Ahmad had said regarding a certain matter to Munshi Sahibra, who was most probably his eldest son, i.e. Hazrat Mirza Sultan Ahmad.

28 September 1902: The Promised Messiahas, whilst writing to Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra, praised Allah as some signs of improvements in certain business matters of Seith Sahibra were conveyed through a letter. Hazrat Ahmadas assured him that he would constantly pray for him. Huzooras also wrote that some musk had been received too, which was sent by Seith Dal Ji. Hazrat Ahmadas commented on the qualities of musk and guided Seith Allah Rakha Sahibra to convey Huzoor’s thanks to Seith Dal Ji, as Huzooras was told that he was out of Madras in those days and hence, Huzooras could not express his appreciation directly.

Continued on next page >>

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

According to the new findings, the world economy has dirty money flowing through its arteries while banks and governments have done little to cut its oxygen, even though they were aware. Sadly, this money has been used to commit injustices, from feeding money to drug cartels, organised crime rings, human trafficking, terrorism, wars, corrupt leaders and even, as reported by the BBC, funding of illegal Israeli settlements. Major western banks have been named as participating in the scandal.

Buzzfeed News, to whom the files were initially handed to, said that the banks did not stop the dirty money and the governments did not stop the banks.

“The FinCEN Files expose an underlying truth of the modern era: The networks through which dirty money traverse the world have become vital arteries of the global economy. They enable a shadow financial system so wide-ranging and so unchecked that it has become inextricable from the so-called legitimate economy.

Banks with household names have helped to make it so.” Buzzfeed News reported.

Further, it wrote, “A huge trove of secret government documents reveals for the first time how the giants of Western banking move trillions of dollars in suspicious transactions, enriching themselves and their shareholders while facilitating the work of terrorists, kleptocrats and drug kingpins.

And the US government, despite its vast powers, fails to stop it.” (www.buzzfeednews. com/article/jasonleopold/fincen-filesfinancial-scandal-criminal-networks) Investigations have been launched and banks have vowed to introduce more stringent and strict checks to stop the crime, but experts are pessimistic. Banks have had a history with facilitating corruption and crime and it’s not going to end suddenly.

A radical change in belief and mindset is required.

Our world, both east and west, continues to be plagued by immorality and injustice.

Many a dawn brings news of corruption, intolerance and subjugation at every level of society, and it isn’t just to do with the rich and powerful. Society’s level of tolerance continues to rise and the support of political parties, on both extremes, across the world, prove the unrest humanity has fallen prey to.

Until society does not adhere to Islamic teachings of absolute justice, toiling to establish peace and practising tolerance, the future of our delicate world looks bleak.

Leaders must not usurp the rights of their own and other nations. Vested interests must be shunned and the Islamic teaching of “love for your brother what you love for yourself ” (Bukhari) adopted. At an individual level, until there is not peace within our homes, how can we expect peace across wider society?

The following hadith of the Prophetsa of Islam is a guiding light to end the turbulence: “Whosoever of you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so, then [let him change it] with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart — and that is the weakest of faith.” (Muslim) These are teachings that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has been tirelessly emphasising in his speeches, discourses, meetings and interviews with world leaders, diplomats, academics, think-tanks, the media and the general public.

But as Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa has stressed, all this is not possible until the world recognises its Creator. We simply cannot expect those who facilitate injustice to change their moral landscape overnight as it has already been shaped.

<< Continued from previous page

28 September 1905: The Promised Messiahas received two guests; one from Turkey while the other was Jewish. He was asked some questions in Arabic and he gave their answers in Arabic too. The Editor of Al Hakam, Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira produced this valued conversation in his newspaper in Urdu. During this detailed discussion, Hazrat Ahmadas removed many misunderstandings and guided them towards the right path.

29 September 1891: The Promised Messiahas reached Delhi and wrote a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira on this date, that hopefully, for the next one month, his address would be in a two-story residence of Nawab Loharo, situated in Ballimaran Bazar. Huzooras instructed him to pay a visit there too. Huzooras

We will not see change towards tolerance, absolute justice and peace based on mere teachings; the ideology needs to change. That is why Allah, in the Holy Quran, has continuously highlighted the need for humanity to climb the ladder of “righteousness” – or “God realisation”. Once humanity realises that God exists, develops a connection with Him and understands what His desires are, a new dawn of tranquillity begins.

It is for this reason that prophets are sent to sow the seed of the Kingdom of God amongst an immoral society and the successors of Prophets nourish and water the seed.

Today, that nourisher is Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, who provides divinely inspired solutions to the problems that have been sown into the fabric of modern society.

In a letter to former US President, Barack Obama, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa advised: “There is an urgent need for mankind to recognise its One God, Who is our Creator, as this is the only guarantor for the survival of humanity; otherwise, the world will continue to rapidly head towards selfdestruction.”

Talking of ending injustice and creating a coherent society, Hazrat Amirul

repeatedly requested Munshi Sahibra to arrange for some suitable job for Sheikh Abdul Haq of Karachi, who was a devout follower of Huzooras.

30 September 1889: The Promised Messiahas debunked the false and vicious theory of Maulvi Imamuddin of Punjab, who affixed to his name the title of Fateh-e-Kitab-e-Mubeen (Explainer of the Open Book). Huzooras replied to his letter on this date. This man was a judge by profession and of the view that the Holy Quran was not complete until it was coupled with a copy of the Bible. Hazrat Ahmadas took notice of this ruinous and baleful idea and admonished this person in a most wise way. The editor of Al Hakam and compiler of Huzoor’s letters recorded the text of the two replies sent to Maulvi Imamuddin.

30 September 1895: The Promised Messiahas undertook a journey towards Dera Baba Nanak. The sole purpose of this was to personally

Momineenaa urged: “Injustices and cruelties should be eliminated and instead we should strive for true justice. The best way to do this is that the world should come to recognise its Creator. Every form of loyalty should be linked to loyalty with God. If this occurs, then we will come to witness with our own eyes that the very highest standards of loyalty will be established by the people of all countries and new avenues leading us to peace and security will open throughout the world.” (World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace, p.37 [fifth edition]) The current system of nihilism and materialism – created from godlessness – continues to polarise society, creating vicious cycles of injustices. Even those nations who claim to be Islamic and at the same time commit great atrocities are clearly not practising what the Quran and the Holy Prophetsa desired.

The FinCEN Files are just another dark chapter to the list of grave injustices and lack of humanity that society has delved into. Sadly, but almost certainly, if we carry on like this, more injustices will follow. The only solution to clog out the blocked arteries of the world is for humanity to return to God and abide by His commandments – our future depends on this.

see the famous cloak of Hazrat Baba Nanakrh.

It was a Monday and this 10-member entourage completed this approximately 50-mile journey via yakkas [horse-pulled carriages]. Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ismailra sat next to the Promised Messiahas on this journey.

1 October 1889: The Promised Messiahas reminded Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira of a certain urgent and important task, while writing a letter to him. After expressing his perturbation owing to the delay in reply, Hazrat Ahmadas asked him to arrange for a chaste, young and suitable wife from the area where he was posted then, for Huzoor’s personal servant, Peeran Dita, who happened to be a person with very limited resources to get married on his own. Such was the love and care of the Promised Messiahas for even workers in his house.

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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The reason for this is the poisonous, widespread effect of evil custom. It is for this reason that the love of Allah Almighty is falling cold and people do not experience the pleasure they ought to in worship. There is nothing [in the world] which, according to the design of Allah the Almighty, does not give pleasure or satisfaction in some form. A person who is ill cannot derive pleasure from even the most exquisite and delicious food, and considers it to be bitter or completely tasteless. So too is the case with those people who derive no pleasure and delight from the worship of God. Such people should worry about their ill state. For as I have just said, there is nothing on earth, which Allah the Exalted has not instilled with the characteristic of granting pleasure in some form or other. Allah the Exalted has created man so that he may worship Him. Why then would there be no pleasure and delight in this worship?

There is definitely pleasure and delight in worship. If only there were those who would take it. Allah the Exalted states: َّ ۡ ۡ َۡ​َ ‫َو َما ﺧلﻘ ُت ال ِج َّن َو الۡاِن َﺲ ِالا ل َِی ۡع ُﺒ ُد ۡو ِن‬ “And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.” Now when the very purpose of man’s creation is worship, it is necessary for there to be immense pleasure and satisfaction in worship. We can appreciate this very well from our daily observation and experience. For example, grain, along with all the things that we eat and drink, has been created for humans. Do they not then derive a pleasure and satisfaction from these things? Does man not possess a tongue so that he can experience the taste, flavour and sensation that is associated with these things? Does man not derive pleasure from looking at beautiful things, whether plants or minerals, animals or other human beings? Do the ears not derive pleasure from attractive and beautiful voices? Then is any further

argument required to establish the fact that there is pleasure to be derived in worship? Allah the Exalted states, “We have created man and woman as mates and we have inclined man towards his mate.” God has not made it so by way of coercion, but rather, He has encouraged by way of pleasure. If procreation and reproduction was the only intended purpose, this would not fulfil the actual objective.

In a state of nakedness, shame would prevent a man and woman from having intimate relations with one another.

However, God has made this process a source of pleasure and satisfaction for both man and woman. This pleasure and satisfaction is so great that there are some ignorant people who do not even care for children, and the only thing that they are interested in is pleasure.

The actual purpose of God Almighty was the continuation of human beings, and for this objective, He fostered a relationship between man and woman and as a secondary element, invested this relation with pleasure, which for many unwise people has become the only intended purpose.

In the same manner, bear well in mind that worship is no burden or tax. This too possesses a pleasure and satisfaction; and this pleasure and satisfaction is far greater than all the delights of this world and all carnal pleasures. Although there is pleasure in the mutual relation between man and woman, only such men can derive satisfaction from this who are in the full possession of their faculties. An impotent man or a eunuch cannot find pleasure in such relations. Moreover, just as an ill person remains deprived of the pleasure of even the finest and most exquisite foods, so too is precisely the case with the unfortunate person who does not find pleasure in worshipping Allah.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 156-157)

Virtual National Atfal Rally, USA

Dr Madeel Abdullah Sadr MKA USA

Atfal rallies are held in person every year at regional levels. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic this year, Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya USA conducted the virtual National Atfal Rally on 5 and 6 September 2020.

The opening session on the first day of the Atfal Rally was presided by Naib Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA, Dr Faheem Younis Sahib.

Throughout the two days of the rally, several interactive educational sessions were conducted, such as the blessings of Khilafat, responsible use of social media, career talks on becoming a lawyer and doctor etc.

Dr Ahsan Khan Sahib, Secretary Rishta Nata Jamaat USA conducted a session with senior Atfal on the importance of praying from an early age for getting married.

An online Scavenger Hunt and quiz competitions were also part of the programme and were very popular with Atfal and their parents. Winners of these competitions will be given prizes soon, insha-Allah.

The concluding session of the rally was

presided by Sahibzada Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA. After tilawat, pledge and nazm, Mohtamim Atfal USA, Syed Raza Ahmad Sahib presented the Atfal progress report for the year.

After that, Dr Madeel Abdullah Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA presented the report for the Atfal Rally.

While addressing the Atfal, Amir Jamaat USA shared a prayer and said: “After this session, go to your rooms and lock them. Think about the honour and responsibilities you have of being an Ahmadi, and the character you must manifest. Then bow down before Allah and offer this prayer for the ability to gain understanding and knowledge.”

During the concluding session, the question and answer session with Amir Jamaat USA, was very popular with Atfal and the allocated time was even extended due to the interest. Attendance for the closing session was approximately 700 Atfal.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to follow the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, to the best of our abilities. Amin.

Delegation of Jamaat Niger meets President’s Directress of Cabinet Muhammad Jamal Niger Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger has recently been on a mission to convey the message of the Imam of this era, the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, to the world by means of the ruling elite of Niger. In this regard, an attempt has been made to meet the President of the country.

A delegation of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya

Niger visited the Directress of Cabinet of President Mme Ousseini Hadizatou Yacouba.

The meeting took place in the office of the Honourable Directress and lasted for an hour.

The delegation included Amir Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Niger, Asad Majeeb Sahib, and two missionaries, Amir Irshad Sahib and Lawali Chaibou Sahib.

During the meeting, the message of the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, was conveyed with a comprehensive introduction to Ahmadiyyat and Khilafate-Ahmadiyya.

Later on, Amir Jamaat Niger had the opportunity to present her the Holy Quran with French translation along with the French translation of The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam and World Crisis

and the Pathway to Peace.

The directress seemed very impressed and inspired with World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace.

At the end, she expressed her sentiments and best wishes for Jamaat-eAhmadiyya.

Alhamdulillah, the meeting went very well.

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

The Promised Messiah’s prayer in the field of Arafat, Mecca In last week’s issue, in This Week in History, under the date of 18 September 1885, it was mentioned that Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan read out a prayer in the field of Arafat written by and at the behest of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas.

Many of our readers wrote to us asking about this prayer and its text. Thus, we deemed it appropriate to present that prayer here along with its English translation.

It should be noted that Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan Sahib (also known as Munshi Ahmad Jan Sahib) was an old acquaintance and dear friend of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas. So pure and sincere was their friendship that after the publication of Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya, it is said that if Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan was approached by someone with the hope of being his follower, he would reply: � ‫�رج � آ یا� � اب �روں � �ورت � ی‬ ‫�۔ �ؤ �ت‬ � ‫�� � �ب� ی�� �و‬ “Now that the Sun has come out, the stars have no use. Go and pledge your obedience to Hazrat [Mirza] Sahib.”

At the time, however, due to not being divinely authorised to form a following,

Huzooras would not accept people’s Bai‘at.

Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan was among the foremost believers in Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’sas truthfulness; yet, he could not formally be part of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat as he passed away before the first Bai‘at in 1889, although his children later accepted the Promised Messiahas and are counted among his foremost companions, most notable among whom is Hazrat Pir Manzur Muhammadra.

In the early part of 1885, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas wrote a letter to Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan, wherein he expressed his delight upon Sufi Sahib’s upcoming journey to the holy land of Mecca for the purpose of Hajj. The letter in itself manifests the mutual love between Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas and Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan, but in the same letter, Huzooras made a request to Hazrat Sufi Sahib that he read out a prayer upon seeing the Baitullah – Holy Ka‘bah – for the first time.

The prayer is as follows: � � � ��� ‫ا� ی��ا �ہ �� اور ��رہ � � اور‬ ‫اے ار� ا�ا ��ی� ی‬ � � ‫ی‬ ‫ز� � � ی‬ � � ‫� � ا� �ی �ض‬ ‫�م ا� � ی��ى‬ � � � ‫اے ار� ا�ا ��ی� � � � را� � اور ی��ى ���ی�ات اور‬

‫��ں � � � � �ر و ی‬ � ‫ر� � اور � � وہ �م �ا‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ی‬ � � ‫� � � � را� � �� � � اور ی��ے‬ ‫�ق اور �ب � دورى ڈال اور ی��ى ز�� اور ی��ى �ت‬ ‫اور ی��ى � ی� �ت اور � � اح� � ا� � راہ ی‬ �� ‫� � ز�ہ ر� اور ا� � � ی‬ ‫اور ا� � � ی‬ ‫� � امر‬ � � ‫��� ی‬ � ‫��� ب�� ی‬ ‫ی‬ ‫اور ا� � �� � � � ا�۔ اے ار� ا�ا � � �م‬ � �� � ‫� � اور‬ ‫� ا�� � � � � � ام�ر ی ا‬ ‫� � � ی��ے دل ی‬ � � �‫� �ش ڈا� � اس � ا‬ � ‫ل�� ی‬ � � ‫� ا�م � � اور اس �� � �� � � ا�م‬ ‫� اور ان � � � اب � ا�م � ب ی‬ �‫���ں � � � � ی‬

‫�رى � اور اس �� اور اس �� � �م دو�ں اور �ں‬ � ‫ی‬ �� � �‫اور � ��ں � �ت اور ��� � � � ا‬ � � ‫ی‬ ‫د�ا ی‬ ‫� ر� � ی‬ ‫� آپ ان � � اور �� � � اور‬ ‫د� و ی‬ ‫ی‬ ‫� � ا� دارا��ء � � اور ا� � � ا� ��� ی� و � اور‬

‫اس � آل اور ا�ب � ز ی�ادہ � ز ی�ادہ درود و �م و ��ت �زل‬ � ‫ی‬ � � ‫آ� یا� رب ا� ��ی�۔‬ ‫�۔‬ “O Most Merciful of those who show mercy, one of your servants – a humble, unskilled, sinful and incompetent [servant], dweller of Your land of India, Ghulam Ahmad – would like to say: O Most Merciful of those who show mercy, be pleased with me and forgive my shortcomings and mistakes, for You are the Most Forgiving, Ever

Merciful. And enable me to carry out those works as do please you and place between myself and my ego the distance of the east and the west. And lay my life, my death, my every strength and whatever I possess in Your way and keep me alive in Your love and give me death in Your love and raise me among Your most perfect followers. O Most Merciful of those who show mercy, with Your grace, bring the promulgation of the task that You have appointed me for and the service for which You have bestowed within my heart a fervour, to its completion. And through my hand, manifest the truthfulness of Islam to the opponents and to all those who are unaware of Islam’s splendours.

And with Your forgiving and favouring hand, provide Your shade of support to this humble one and this humble one’s friends, sincere ones and companions and be their guardian and protector in faith and in the world and enter everyone in Your abode of pleasure. And descend as much durood [salutations], peace and blessings upon Your Prophet – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him – his people and his companions, as possible. Amin, O Lord of all the worlds.”

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol.1, pp. 264-265)

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Where stars descend Chapter 7 (Reaching the corners of the Earth) Part III

Asif M Basit

There are many programmes that have been broadcast on different occasions and Huzooraa has very graciously provided guidance for them on different occasions.

Something Huzooraa has said numerous times regarding MTA programmes is, “The purpose of every programme on MTA should be to spread the teachings of Islam to the world.”

Another lesson we have also been taught from Huzooraa is that the task of spreading Islam cannot be possible until and unless we ascertain the vision of Khalifatul Masih.

The Khalifa has the divine gift of being able to view things from a 360-degree angle. Take, for example, the Friday Sermons; there is no subject that Huzooraa has not spoken on; onslaughts against religion, allegations against Islam, the rise of irreligiousness and materialism, questions on Ahmadiyyat, apt direction for successful tabligh, tarbiyat related matters, the education and wellbeing of the new generation and most importantly, the purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiahas i.e. the establishment of huququllah and huquq-ul-ibad (rights of Allah and the right of His creation) – these have all been addressed by Huzooraa on various occasions.

We always try to streamline the vision of MTA programmes with that of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. On a personal level, I endeavour to remind my colleagues and myself that the actual programmes on MTA are the sermons and addresses of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa and the significance of every other programme is no more than that of a filler. What is essential is that those “fillers” are also streamlined with the vision of Huzooraa.

No matter how hard we try to achieve this, it is an impossible feat to achieve without Huzoor’s guidance. Even if we are able to ascertain specifically what Huzoor’s desire is, before we implement that understanding into a programme, we must seek guidance from Huzooraa so that if something requires any clarification, then we may determine it beforehand.

No one is oblivious to the persecution of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Pakistan and that the Pakistani Government does its best to make life difficult for Ahmadi Muslims living in the country.

A few years ago, restrictions were put in place against the publication and spread of

Ahmadiyya literature by the government and policymakers. Thus, all the Jamaat’s printing presses were closed. Wherever the books of the Promised Messiahas were, those places were raided and the books, seized. If the books were found to be present anywhere, it was considered a breach of the law. Books were seized from all places, whether they were libraries or publication departments.

During those days, Huzooraa instructed that although the Pakistani Government was striving to halt the spread of the Promised Messiah’sas books, they would not be able to do so as they were available on the Jamaat’s website and other online platforms and thus being published throughout the world. Huzooraa then instructed for MTA to present darses on these books.

Upon hearing this instruction, preparations were underway. Although darses of Malfuzat and the writings of the Promised Messiahas were already being broadcast, MTA’s scheduling department was requested to schedule such darses more than before.

Alongside that, three young missionaries were prepared to present a programme on the books of the Promised Messiahas, which was pending Huzoor’saa final approval. The first book that was to be studied was The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam and would be presented in a discussion format, but the text of the book would be given preference above any personal explanation. These three missionaries, who have been prepared by Huzooraa himself, immediately accepted

the task and began preparation for the show. With a synopsis in hand, I set out for the Fazl Mosque that same evening.

Huzooraa had just led the Maghrib prayer and left the mosque, when I briefly explained the synopsis of the programme.

Whilst walking towards his residence, Huzooraa heard what I had to say and approved the proposal. Huzooraa added, “It should be presented in English from here; tell the team in Rabwah to prepare such a programme in Urdu and ask the Germany team to present one in German.”

The foreign studios were conveyed Huzoor’saa instruction and from the UK, the team was ready.

With time, graduates of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK began appearing on the show. Hearing Huzoor’saa instruction,

MTA’s production department also offered full cooperation and the programmes began being recorded and broadcast.

Huzooraa approved the name of the show as In His Own Words. This very programme was then prepared in various other languages and is broadcast to this day.

In this manner, in light of Huzoor’s instructions, a programme – whose purpose was to promote the writings of the Promised Messiahas throughout the world – saw its inception.

There were other various shows in which it was felt that showing the viewpoint of non-Ahmadis was vital. Upon deliberation, one reason for our reluctance in this matter was the unpredictability of what external people would say on the show – whether it would be appropriate for the MTA viewership and whether it would steer the conversation towards a different subject.

When the matter was presented to Huzooraa, he provided ample guidance and said, “You should first meet the people who you wish to invite on MTA. In that way, you will be able to get a good understanding of their nature and temperament. Intellectual people generally tend to be cautious in presenting their opinions, but still, you should be careful when inviting guests.”

We began preparations for the show.

We also began to invite academics who could speak about the Jamaat onto the show.

Before talking about the academics who would appear on this show, it is important to mention here when external

In His Own Words: The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam | MTA

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM guests first began to appear on MTA. In 2010, when Ahmadiyya mosques were attacked and just less than a hundred innocent Ahmadis were slain, I had the opportunity to interview many influential members of government in Pakistan and then have their interviews shown on MTA. This has been mentioned briefly in a previous chapter; however, I wish to present the details of this here.

At the time, I had acquired permission from Huzooraa to include some wellinformed intellectuals on Rah-e-Huda, who could condemn the brutality shown by extremists in Pakistan so that it could have a positive effect on the global viewership.

Thus, in that period the likes of Abid Hassan Minto, IA Rahman, Muneeza Hashmi, Barrister Hamid Khan, Roedad Khan, Sherry Rahman, Sartaj Aziz, Iqbal Akhund, Ashraf Liaquat Ali (son of Liaquat Ali Khan), Iqbal Haider and Imtiaz Alam were interviewed and their interviews were played on Rah-e-Huda.

All these individuals personally condemned these attacks and all viewers, whether they belonged to the Ahmadiyya Jamaat or not, appreciated their statements. The viewers were pleased that there were still such people in society who had the courage to declare what was wrong as wrong.

In those days, I observed that when I sought permission for each of them to speak on the show, Huzooraa not only gave permission, but described to me their temperaments and inclinations. I also was guided by Huzooraa as to how I should ask each of them questions.

As an Ahmadi Muslim, my faith has always been that Allah the Almighty bestows upon His chosen Khalifa divinely inspired farsightedness, but I practically saw its manifestation in those days. Permit me to declare, whilst writing these lines, that I was able to witness this manifestation first-hand for the very first time.

The manner in which Huzooraa described each of their natures, guided me about the questions that I should pose and the possible diplomatic answers I should be wary of was all an astonishing experience.

By treading the path that Huzooraa had laid out for me, I found that the intellect and awareness of these academics was redundant in front of Huzoor’s wisdom.

And how would it not be? The claim there is of worldly knowledge, whereas here, we find divine inspiration.

One such bureaucrat and politician was to speak on MTA who never shies away from speaking in favour of the Jamaat. I had only just mentioned that I was to speak to him the following day, when Huzooraa remarked, “He will speak in our favour, but he will expect something in return.”

I assumed that this was said due to his affiliation with a particular group of people because his people are famous for having migrated to Karachi after the partition and abusing their wealth.

The next day, precisely what Huzooraa had described came to pass. The gentleman agreed to being interviewed,

but also discretely asked to book him a ticket to London so that he could record his words on camera. I was very amused at this event.

When I described the interview to Huzooraa, I also asked whether Huzooraa had ever had any interaction with the gentleman. Huzooraa replied, “I have not interacted directly with him, but I am aware of his personality.”

In this regard, Huzoor’saa instruction was always to properly inform the interviewee that we wanted to interview them on behalf of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s television channel, MTA. Huzooraa was aware that the progressive people of Pakistan were reluctant to voice their opinions due to the suppression of extremist elements there. Thus, Huzooraa felt it proper for them to be briefed about who we were and what we were recording the interview for. Accordingly, care was taken to act on Huzoor’s instruction and apart from a very few people, everyone was happy to cooperate.

It is not appropriate to mention the names of those who were reluctant to speak on our platform as we do not wish to humiliate them. I will only refer to one gentleman as he was a means of bringing to light a faith-inspiring aspect of Huzoor’s life.

In 1974, this individual was the minister of justice and during his tenure, the infamous amendment to the constitution of Pakistan was drawn out, which is known as the Second Amendment.

When he was contacted over the telephone, he asked to be explicitly informed about the questions I would ask him. When I informed him that I wished to ask about the Second Amendment, in which Ahmadis have been declared nonMuslims, he replied that he did not wish to be a part of this conversation. I told him that his evasion was being recorded and that he was known as an intellectual and an experienced expert in the field of politics.

“The whole world is aware of your close ties with [Zulfikar Ali] Bhutto (and his family). This verdict was declared in the Bhutto era and you were his right-hand man. If you evade the question, then your political reputation will be compromised in front of the whole world.”

He replied by saying that he did not wish to speak; end of story! With that, he shut the phone.

When the details of that conversation were relayed to Huzooraa, although I did not dive into the details, Huzooraa realised that I wanted to broadcast that conversation on the show. Huzooraa said: “When he does not wish to speak, then leave it. What benefit can there be?

And how would we be any different from other channels? Other channels blackmail people like this, but we shall respect his desire.”

I learned this lesson from Huzooraa then and continued to act upon it, that no interview should be broadcast in which the interviewee clearly expresses that they do not wish to be interviewed.

I carried out interviews of intellectuals and experts and they would get aired on

MTA. They were all well received by the viewers. I also sought permission from Huzooraa during those days to interview journalists and so-called scholars who were opposed to us. Upon approval, I began contacting such scholars and journalists.

In terms of reputation and opposition, the interview with a foremost scholar is still preserved to this day. The profane and foul language that was used by the scholar was more extreme than a drunkard’s language. However, that too was not aired.

The language used in the interview is such that cannot be heard in any decent setting, never mind broadcasting it globally.

Even regarding this scholar, Huzooraa said that I could interview him, but it may not be broadcast-worthy. Once again, Huzoor’saa words proved precisely correct.

I even spoke to a person who is known as a mufti [Islamic jurist] and appears on most Pakistani television channels. In his very articulate and composed manner of speech, he gave an interview, but resorted to such expletives that shocked me to my core. On many occasions, I reminded him, “Mufti Sahib! What sort of language is this?”, but he continued to use the same filthy language. His profanities have also been preserved, but in accordance with

the persecution of Ahmadis and the government’s backing for this opposition.

Thus, it was felt that the representatives of government would not speak on the subject and I became doubtful about the possibility of being able to contact them.

The situation was presented to Huzooraa, to which Huzooraa said, “Go ahead! You should most definitely do this.

Get a hold of them and ask them!”

This had now become an instruction and I had to now get a hold of them. I began my efforts in this regard. I started to search the various departments within Pakistan’s government and call their phone numbers given on their websites.

To my surprise, I found that the offices were either well-nigh deserted or riddled with corruption. For almost an entire year in certain departments, the minister overseeing the department hadn’t attended the office. Some staff members were instructed by their ministers to not allow anyone through to them. Other staff members would utilise every opportunity for bribes or other benefits.

Without any exaggeration, I called a certain minister’s office multiple times, but could not get through to them. The person who would constantly attend my call one day asked me, “You call from London

In the early days of Rah-e-Huda, through the blessings of Khilafat, many high-profile academics, journalists and politicians of Pakistan were interviewed who spoke about their views on the laws against the Jamaat, in light of the 2010 attacks on two Ahmadiyya mosques in Lahore

Huzoor’saa instructions, have never been broadcast.

I should mention here that when I initially sought permission from Huzooraa to interview these so-called scholars, Huzooraa said something very beautiful.

He said, “It is a good idea; the opponents’ viewpoint will be known and they will get the chance to voice themselves.”

Our opponents tend not to allow us to voice our views on their platforms, but Huzooraa was careful in that they should be allowed to express their views to uphold the first principle of dialogue. This sign of respect was not recognised by them, whereas we were given a pristine guideline to follow.

The interviews with politicians were also unique in their own right. In view of the conditions at the time, it was thought that such influential people would refrain from talking on our platform. Almost every channel of the world was discussing

every day. Do you live in London or have you travelled there from here?” I replied that I lived there and asked him why he wanted to know. He then asked whether I was a British national, to which, albeit aversely, I replied in the affirmative and enquired as to why he was asking. He then asked if there was any way that I could invite him to the UK as he had had enough of his job. I struggled to get myself out of that conversation.

Huzoor’s prayers were with me during those efforts. I thought to myself that there must be some sort of way of communicating with those ministers and politicians as they always seemed to be willing to appear on other channels for discussions and indulging in futile debates. With this in mind, I called a familiar Pakistani television channel.

A decent-mannered young man picked up the phone. I introduced myself Continued on next page >>

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

8 << Continued from previous page

by stating my name and that I was calling on behalf of MTA International and was in need of a certain politician’s phone number. The employee on the other end provided the number so quickly that in truth, I was a little taken aback. He was so quick to respond that I had to tell him to let me grab a pen and paper. I did not expect to get a number so quickly and so easily.

In any case, I called the minister and spoke to him and with their permission, had their interview recorded and broadcast on MTA. Now, whatever number I required, I would ask for it from the same television channel. When I next contacted the channel, the same gentleman did not attend the phone as it was not his shift. The person who picked up the call was not able to find the number I was in search of and expressed some hesitation in doing so.

When I called a few days later, the same man, who had helped me initially, picked

up. I told him that I had called earlier, but he was not on duty. He then told me to take his mobile number and that whenever I needed his help, I should call his personal contact number. He said that he had all the numbers saved and he could easily pass on information. Thus, I acquired a few other numbers from him.

One day, I expressed my deep thanks to him, but also asked whether he knew I was an Ahmadi. He replied, “I did not know this, but what difference does that make?” I then asked him whether he knew the risks he was taking in providing me numbers as his company could take action against him for providing phone numbers from their private directory. He said, “I am aware of this, but this probably happens in England. Here, I have not been informed of such a rule. All channels here do the same thing when in need of phone numbers for their shows. Whenever I have told you to call later, it was so that I could call another channel and obtain the number for you.”

I became extremely grateful and told

him that if there was ever something that I could do for him, he should let me know. He replied, “It’s not a problem. It isn’t really a big deal.” I haven’t been able to contact him for some time. May Allah keep him happy.

Whoever met me during that time and whenever those interviews float around on WhatsApp or Twitter even today, I am asked how I was able to contact such high figures and whether I had contacts in influential circles. I would like to tell all those people through these words that I never had any contacts then, nor do I have any today; Huzooraa approved this endeavour, encouraged me and thus, Allah the Almighty blessed it with His immense grace.

At times, calls went through to certain politicians and ministers so quickly that I did not expect to be taken straight through to them without being transferred. At times, it so happened that when I was asked who I was, I would reply, “My name is Asif.” I would then be asked where I was

calling to which I would say, London. Of course, this introduction was incomplete, but with Allah’s grace, it was enough to pave the way for further interviews. When I would be put through to the relevant minister or politician, I would give a full introduction of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and my affiliation with it.

Not a single word of a lie would be spoken on my behalf and a full introduction to the Ahmadiyya Jamaat would be given. They would be informed that the interview would be broadcast on the Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s television channel.

This introduction would also be recorded so that if there was ever a problem in the future, we had proof that they were fully aware of who they were talking to.

The entire period of Rah-e-Huda in which these interviews were aired, wherein government ministers would display their shallowness, was all a result of Huzoor’s prayers and attention.

(To be continued…)

Living longer: The Roseto effect Qasim Choudhary Missionary (in-training), Canada

How can I live longer? A timeless question, with varying theories, experiments and myths.

In Greek mythology, the fountain of youth is mentioned as having properties that could either preserve one’s youth eternally or restore youth to one who had lost it. Where one can find the source of this fountain remains a mystery.

Then, we have Robert Ettinger, the father of cryonics. Cryonics involves cooling a recently deceased person to liquid nitrogen temperatures in order to keep the body preserved indefinitely. The goal of cryonics is to give future physicians a possible shot at reviving the patient.

As mythological, pseudoscientific and even empirical scientific movements continue to explore the question of life prolongation, we can always refer to our primary guide, the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for the ultimate truth.

Malcolm Gladwell, in his national bestseller, Outliers: The Story of Success, relates a mysterious phenomenon from the small, predominantly Italian borough of Pennsylvania, called Roseto. The residents of Roseto, Pennsylvania originally migrated from Roseto Valfortore, Italy. By the early 1900s, the majority of the inhabitants of the

small Italian town had resettled in America in the hope of economic betterment as promised in the New World.

Not much was known about Roseto, Pennsylvania, which was its own tiny, selfsufficient world – all but unknown by the society around it – and it might well have remained so but for a physician named Dr Stewart Wolf.

Wolf lived in an era where heart attacks were an epidemic in the United States. In the 1950s, there were no cholesterol-lowering drugs or aggressive measures to prevent heart disease. It was the leading cause of death in men under the age of 65. Thus, it struck Dr Wolf as incredibly peculiar that rarely anyone from Roseto suffered from heart disease. After a thorough investigation, Dr Wolf ’s initial hunch was proven correct.

In Roseto, virtually no one under 65 had died of a heart attack or showed any sign of heart disease. Then came the challenging part – the question of “how?”

Dr Wolf and a team of sociologists and medical students combed through the entire populace of Roseto only to discover further startling facts. There were no suicides, alcoholism, drug addiction, very little crime and no one was on welfare. These people were simply dying of old age.

The experts initially thought that the Rosetans abided by age old dietary practices that left them healthier than other

Americans. But this was simply not true.

Rather, many were struggling with obesity.

It was a town where you could hardly find someone exerting themselves physically.

After exhausting other theories as to why the Rosetans lived longer and did not suffer from heart conditions, Dr Wolf finally came to the conclusion already divulged to the world 1,500 years ago.

The Holy Prophetsa is narrated to have said: “Whoever loves that he be granted more wealth and that his lease of life be prolonged, then he should keep good relations with his kith and kin.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab alAdab) Dr Wolf and his colleagues walked around town and noted the town’s closeknit social structure. It was not unusual to see Rosetans stopping to converse or to gather and cook food for one another.

There were many homes that consisted of three generations living under one roof, with the grandparents of these households commanding much respect.

The Rosetans were able to establish the protective social structure that they once had in southern Italy and continue it in eastern Pennsylvania. They were insulated from the pressures and expectations of the modern, capitalistic world, which allowed them to develop meaningful relationships – the ultimate cause of their good health and

longevity.

The Holy Quran also states, “As to that which benefits men, it stays on the earth” (Surah al-Ra‘d Ch.13:V.18) In these concise words, God Almighty has graciously explained that the service of others is what pleases God to grant us longer lives. As God’s very purpose of creating mankind is for us to serve one another, He desires for us to manifest love in our lives in such a way that we treat all as our kith and kin. As we do this to please Him, God extends our stay in this transient life to continue to fulfill His purpose.

In a world increasingly turning towards selfish individualism, the ongoing pandemic has stopped us in our tracks and reminded us about the adverse effects of social isolation. In fact, studies reveal that “in short, loneliness kills people.” (JT Cacioppo and LC Hawkley Perceived social isolation and cognition [2009]. Trends Cogn. Sci. 13, pp. 447-454) Fortunately, Islam lays great emphasis on maintaining strong social ties and our innate desire to be social creatures. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra maintains that happiness in reality is to socialise and congregate.

(Khutubat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 1, p. 27, Eid Sermon delivered on 2 August 1916) May we all experience true happiness in our lives and uphold our responsibilities towards family, friends and humanity – the key for a long and healthy life.

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Responding to Allegations

Who was behind the Arabic works of the Promised Messiahas?

Part IV (Challenging Muslim scholars) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, openly challenged Arab and non-Arab theologians and writers of his age to compete with him in a writing contest of insightful Arabic commentary of selected verses of the Holy Quran or Arabic composition before a general gathering and to let the public decide on whose side the succour of Allah the Almighty is with.

The founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat announced well in advance through divine revelation that Allah would certainly bless him with victory over his opponents because he was granted the miracle of extraordinary Arabic writing.

Anyone with even a little common sense and rationality will understand that there is no way that the Promised Messiahas could have given such open challenges of expressive Arabic writing and urged learned scholars of his time to compete with him sitting face to face in public gatherings, when, as per the view of opponents, someone else was writing Arabic books for him and God did not give him such a miracle.

The opponents of the Promised Messiahas raised similar objections about his Arabic works in the past as well and some well-known scholars called him an imposter. There are many recorded incidents in the life of the Promised Messiahas when he invited them and reiterated on many occasions to compete with him in the said contest of Arabic composition. However, none of them accepted his challenge.

For example, Maulvi Abdul Haq Ghaznavi published a poster on 2 Shaban 1314 AH, i.e. January 1897 (mentioned by the Promised Messiahas in his book Hujjatullah) in which he levelled many allegations against the Promised Messiahas and wrote: “The [Arabic] books that he [the founder of Ahmadiyya Jamaat] brings out are published by him after getting them written by people well-versed in Arabic language. I know for sure that he has no ability in Arabic at all. If he really possesses this quality, he should hold a debate with me in Arabic before a general gathering of scholars. The Arabic of both contestants will be recorded and presented to the scholars. If he wins, it will be accepted that the said Arabic works are his own writings. This debate will take place face-

to-face. If he is not able to compete with me in this debate, then the curse of Allah shall be on he who lies.” (Hujjatullah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 12, p. 161) The Promised Messiahas immediately accepted his challenge and stated: “Abdul Haq Ghaznavi has published a poster on 2 Shaban 1314 AH to wash away the ink of the curse that has settled on his face. I have repeatedly written the answer to this poster in this appendix [of the book, Anjam-e-Atham], that I have declared this as a sign of my Messiahship. However, the only thing that I want from the defeated is not to confess my proficiency in Arabic, but to believe [in me]. Thus, he should publish a sworn statement with the testimony of 10 Maulvis that if I defeat him in the contest of eloquent Arabic [debate], he will immediately take my Bai‘at in the same gathering and admit that I am the Promised Messiah. But if he does not issue an announcement with the said statement, then the curse of Allah shall be upon him in this world and in the Hereafter.” (Anjam-e-Atham [Appendix], Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 11, p. 317) Maulvi Abdul Haq Ghaznavi did not honour his own challenge and remained silent. The Promised Messiahas once again reminded him about it and said: “In response [to Abdul Haq’s invitation], it was written in the appendix of Anjam-e-Atham that I am ready for the competition. [It was clarified that] he should be aware that I have repeatedly said that these Arabic books were not compiled so that people consider me an Arabic scholar and acknowledge me as a maulvi, but in fact, it has been frequently mentioned in these books that they are a sign of God and granted to me as a miracle. I have been given this [miracle] as another proof for my claim. When and where did I write that the objective of my Arabic books was that if someone is defeated, he should consider me an Arabic scholar? Thus, [he was asked to] affirm that if he, despite his huge claims of Arabic knowledge and superiority, was clearly defeated by a person like me, about whom he asserted in the said poster that that person had no expertise in Arabic knowledge, he would accept it as a sign and believe with full certainty that it was a miracle from God the Almighty, and at the same time, he would repent and perform my Bai‘at. However, around two

months have passed [since I accepted his challenge] and thus far, no response has come from Abdul Haq. It is as if he has died. Now, the just-minded people should reflect on how these people are working like the Antichrist to cover up the truth and the amount of devilish lies they are spreading to destroy innocent people.”

(Hujjatullah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 12, pp.

161-162) After the above reiteration and loss of precious time, the Promised Messiahas offered Abdul Haq Ghaznavi a fresh sign and wrote Hujjatullah [God’s Final Argument], a book in Arabic, which he began on 17 March 1897 and completed on 26 May 1897. He challenged his opponents, particularly Maulavi Abdul Haq Ghaznavi to compose a book at least comparable in size and quality to his Arabic book, using prose and poem.

He asked them to write the like of it in the same time period of three or four months. The Promised Messiahas gave his opponents complete freedom to take help from anyone in producing that book against him. He permitted them to invite any one scholar who could swear that their composed book was better or even equivalent to his in quality, and if that person was not seized by divine punishment within 41 days because of lying under oath, the Promised Messiahas would burn all of his books and repent at their hands.

If the Promised Messiahas had not been granted the miracle of Arabic from Allah the Almighty, he would not have shown willingness to debate with Maulvi Abdul Haq Ghaznavi in the assembly of scholars.

Moreover, he would not have invited him to write another book in response to the Arabic book, Hujjatullah.

Maulvi Abdul Haq Ghaznavi died on 16 May 1917, but from 1897 to the passing of the Promised Messiahas on 26 May 1908, he did not take up his own challenge to hold a debate with the Promised Messiahas in Arabic. Moreover, he did not produce any impressive book in Arabic in rejoinder to the book, Hujjatullah or any other book of the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas repeatedly invited others to hold a contest of Arabic writing with him and witness the sign of God the Almighty.

We have already presented the details of the incident that took place between the

I‘jazul-Masih [Miracles of the Messiah] is an elegant commentary in Arabic spread over 200 pages on the first chapter of the Holy Quran

Promised Messiahas and Pir Mehr Ali Shah Sahib of Golra Sharif in a previous article of Responding to Allegations series, under the heading, All prophets are rejected and questioned on their sanity – Part II. The Promised Messiahas challenged Golarvi Sahib to compete with him and compose a commentary of the selected verses of the Holy Quran on 20 July 1900 through an announcement. After that, the founder of Ahmadiyya Jamaat lived for about eight years, but Pir Mehr Ali Shah Sahib shied away from writing such a commentary.

Thereafter, the Promised Messiahas published an announcement on 22 July 1900, in which he mentioned the names of 86 prominent religious leaders and scholars of India and invited them to come forward and take up his challenge.

However, neither did they muster the courage to accept the Promised Messiah’sas challenge, nor did any other Arab or non-Arab Muslim scholar accepted his challenge.

Thus, it is clear as day that the Promised Messiahas was certainly the author of the extraordinary Arabic works under discussion and Allah the Almighty continuously helped him in writing those books and blessed him with the miracle of expressive Arabic composition.

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Freedom of speech: France’s double standards and what Islam advises Adnan Haider France

The weekly newspaper Charlie Hebdo has been in the news since the first caricatures of Muhammad, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him. Describing itself as a satirical newspaper and which, at the time, had only 10,000 subscribers, the paper grew to 220,000 subscribers in less than a month, after the attacks of 7 January 2015, killing 12 people, including eight employees of the weekly newspaper.

The newspaper recently republished the caricatures of the Prophetsa of Islam in its special issue “Trial of the attacks of 7, 8 and 9 January 2015”; reactions from the French and international population quickly followed. Some spoke of incitement to hatred and provocation, while others of humour and freedom of speech. In any case, the republication of these caricatures has seen sales of more than 200,000 copies.

Internationally, countries such as Turkey and Pakistan are outraged at this misplaced humour; there has been a wave of demonstrations in Pakistan where French flags were burnt and where the demonstrators asked Muslims for a diplomatic and economic boycott with France.

After the attacks against Charlie Hebdo in 2015, the trend #JeSuisCharlie (I am Charlie) took shape on social networks and in the media, with the aim of expressing solidarity with the victims of the weekly and defending freedom of expression. Despite the promotion of this trend by the French elite, many expressed their solidarity and indignation, but did not call themselves Charlie and found the satirical humour of the paper provocative, not respecting the sensitivity of religions and in some cases, even individuals.

If the indignation and passion of Muslim countries can be understood, whilst condemning the violent reactions such as the burning down of churches in Niger, the resentment from some of the French population, especially French Muslims, has more reason to be heard. Without judging the humour of the newspaper, it is interesting to note that French humour based on freedom of expression is often subject to double standards.

Indeed, in the 2 July 2008 issue of

Charlie Hebdo, the cartoonist Siné ironises the rise of French politician Jean Sarkozy, referring in particular to his engagement to the Jewish heiress of the founders of the Darty group and a possible conversion to Judaism: “He has just declared that he wants to convert to Judaism before marrying his fiancée, a Jew and heiress of the founders of Darty. He will go a long way in life, this little one” says Siné in his chronicle.

It was following this satire that on 16 July 2008, Siné was fired by the director of the publication Philipe Val, who justified his dismissal by stating that Siné’s words “could be interpreted as making the link between conversion to Judaism and social success, and this was neither acceptable nor defensible before a court of law”.

condamne-pour-le-licenciement-abusif-desine_1451578_3236.html) It must be said that this case has not generated much debate in the media and that the freedom of expression that the newspaper and its supporters are trying to defend does indeed have limits, but these limits are chosen. Let us take up the words of the publication director Philipe Val; if Siné’s words could be interpreted as making the link between conversion to Judaism and social success, is it not the same for the caricatures of the Prophetsa of Islam that could be interpreted as making the link between Islam and terrorism? The aim here is not to promote humour that could be interpreted as antisemitism, nor to prove it right, but to find and define the limits of freedom of expression, and to propose

The court, however, did not entirely agree with him, since on 3 November 2008, when Siné sued Charlie Hebdo for wrongful breach of contract, the court ruled that “it cannot be claimed that the terms of Maurice Sinet’s column are antisemitic, nor that he committed a fault in writing them”, and the magistrates considered that “the media coverage of the break-up and the humiliating nature of his announcement, learned at the same time as the readers by the publication of the 16 July 2008 issue, caused Siné moral damage that should be compensated by allocating him the sum of 20,000 euros”. (www.lemonde.fr/actualitemedias/article/2010/12/10/charlie-hebdo-

the application of these limits for any kind of individual, social class, religion or community under the precepts of absolute justice.

During an address by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa in the Dutch parliament, a member of parliament and member of the People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy, Mr Han Ten Broeke asked Huzooraa the following question: “Do you accept that freedom of speech actually encompasses freedom of religion?”

An interesting question that was answered all the more pertinently by the Caliph: “If you are just mocking, as I said in my

address, and trying to ridicule the prophets or any leader of any religion, then there is a natural reaction that they will retaliate in the same manner; sometimes, they cannot control their patience.

“It’s a two-way flow, give and take; everybody should respect every person.

These are the human values, so we should also consider human values. And as far as the law of land is concerned, I have already explained that if the law allows you to speak whatever you like, well, the law is made by people, and this is why there have been so many amendments from time to time in almost every part of the world; whenever you enact a new law, then after some time, you make amendments to it, which means that you yourself are not satisfied by the law you have. When the condition changes, you think that we should change the law or that this law does not give the satisfied solution to the problem of today.

“So you cannot say that the law is perfect, and if the law of the land is humiliating the leadership or any person whom you love, [you cannot say] it is right.

You have the right to say whatever you like but in my opinion, you should not have the right to speak ill of somebody whom I love in front of me. Here in the Western world, if you have the right to openly speak against any person no matter if he is a prophet or a leader or whoever he is, I feel that human values should stop you from doing so even if the law allows it with the freedom of speech. You should put some restrictions on this freedom, otherwise there will be disturbance and frustration in the world and that is what you have been seeing. If you have experienced anything good with these reactions, then I will admit that you should continue like this, but if we see that there is a mass reaction from the Muslim world on this issue when you try to humiliate the Prophetsa, then I think we should consider whether we should emphasise those things which are hurting the sentiments of others.

So in my opinion, human values are the most important things.”

This answer, brilliant as it may be, probably did not meet with the unanimous approval of the parliamentarians. It was after a few minutes of exchange with Michiel Servaes, a member of the Labour Party, whilst discussing freedom of expression, the caricatures published in

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Charlie Hebdo and Voltaire’s famous phrase presented by the parliamentarian, “I don’t agree with what you say, but I will fight to the death for you to have the right to say it” that the Caliph ended the debate with this unprecedented response that forced an almost instantaneous silence among politicians on the issue of freedom of speech.

Michiel Seraves said, “You are then arguing for a limitation for the freedom of speech; where you draw the line is apparently when people speak of others faith, and you would argue for a limitation there, but do you not see a risk that if you put in the law a limitation for the freedom of speech, it would actually be misused by political leaders or others to stop the debate in a country, because if you put one limitation in the freedom of speech, where do you draw the line?”

Huzooraa said, “I do not say that you legally put restrictions on the freedom of speech, but ... we should realise the importance of peace and the importance of the sentiments of others. If we realise this, then every sane person will think twice before saying anything wrong. If, in your view, the peace of society is the foremost goal, then I think that despite the fact that you have the right to say anything you want, a sane person will think twice before saying anything. Even in your day to day matters, in your home, if you hurt the sentiments of your wife or your brother, there is a disturbance in the house and you would wish that you had not said these words.

“Everybody is free to say anything, but you cannot say anything anti-Semitic; you cannot speak about the Jews and what happened in the Second World War, even though everybody has a right, but it is widely disliked; and in some countries, if you speak about this, the law will get hold of you. It means there are some restrictions [for freedom of speech] somewhere already imposed by the law.”

This is indeed the case in France, the country of “freedom” and standard-bearer of freedom of speech. Holocaust denial, a term created in 1987 by the historian Henry Rousso to designate the contestation of the reality of the genocide implemented against the Jews by Nazi Germany during the Second World War, i.e. the denial of the Shoah, thus consists in claiming either

that there was no intention to exterminate the Jews, or that the means to carry out this extermination, notably the gas chambers intended to kill, did not exist. Holocaust denial is punishable under the Gayssot law in France.

The right and freedom to blaspheme evoked by President Emmanuel Macron and some French intellectuals therefore remains very partial. The pragmatic measures taken by the French government and the French media against the humourist Dieudonné Mbalambala confirms that this is not just a theory. The unanimous censorship and demonisation of the media against the humourist – considered the most favourite humourist of the French – does not go unnoticed.

For several years now, Dieudonné’s humour has been the subject of much debate in France. The comedian, who used to be on all French television channels, has been absent for a decade, his sketches are no longer sold over the counter, not to mention all the trials he continues to be subjected to. Recently, his YouTube account has even been shut down. Dieudonné has apologised, but has not stopped his humour against the Jewish community, something that will most definitively deprive him from show business.

The demonisation of the humourist does him more good than harm as he fills all the theatres and a very large part of the French population supports him. This popularity amongst the French people, despite media censorship, led former Prime Minister, Manuel Valls to publicly point the finger at him and promise to silence him.

Thierry Ardisson, a famous French presenter who once said, “If I want to make a caricature about Mohammed, a rabbi or Jesus Christ, I have to have the right to do it, that’s France!”, invited Dieudonné Mblambala after a sketch in which the latter played an orthodox Jew (probably one of his last television appearances) and said to him, “There’s one thing I don’t understand about this case. It’s that at no time did you feel the need to apologise and that you added to it; it’s so surprising, it’s so inadmissible that I’m shocked. “ Dieudonné said, “We live in a country where we have the right to express ourselves, and why is it that all of a sudden, on a subject, we can’t express ourselves?”

Thierry Ardisson said, “You know very well why we can’t express ourselves, because in this country we sent Jews to gas chambers during the war, and that creates a small problem nonetheless.”

Dieudonné said, “Well, in this country they sent hundreds of millions of black people to slavery for 400 years and yet that didn’t stop Michel Leeb from doing a sketch about black people which made me laugh; where he played a black man and at the end, he played a monkey and comparing the nostrils of black people with glasses. He wasn’t forbidden to do his job. He even got the Legion of Honour ...”

Freedom of speech therefore has a choice to make, that satiring everyone without taking into account the sensitivities of those targeted, including Jews, or that of respecting the sensibilities of all individuals in society, regardless of their social class, colour or religion.

The choice of Islam is clear and the practice of the Holy Foundersa of Islam is remarkable. That Prophetsa who is mocked by some in the name of freedom of speech is the one who was at the forefront of protecting the sensitivities of Jews and other citizens.

When a Jew was hurt by the words of a Muslim who said that Prophet Muhammadsa was superior to Mosesas, Muhammadsa commanded: َ ‫لَا ت ُ َف ِّض ُل ْوني َعلَى ُم‬ ‫وسى‬ ِ “Do not say that I am better than Mosesas.” Even if the Prophetsa confirmed what the Muslim was saying here, it would not be contrary to reality.

As for the salutary quote from Voltaire, “I do not agree with what you say, but I will fight to the death for you to have the right to say it”, it is only verbal and ideological. Islam, on the other hand, demonstrated this in its practice many centuries before Voltaire was even born. The first verses revealed to the Prophetsa authorising him to defend himself against the enemies who were trying to destroy Islam and its followers, declared in Surah Al-Hajj, verses 40 and 41, reads: “Permission to fight is granted to those against whom war is made, because they have been unjustly treated – and Allah certainly has the power to help them.

Those who have been unjustly driven from their homes, only because they have said: ‘Our Lord is Allah’. And if Allah had not allowed men to repel the transgressions of others, surely the cloisters and churches and synagogues and mosques, wherein the name of Allah is often mentioned would have been demolished. And Allah will certainly help whoever helps Him. Allah is indeed Strong and Mighty.”

This verse not only laid the foundation for freedom of speech, but commanded every Muslim to fight physically to defend it if conditions compelled them to do so. The symbolism of places of worship is undeniably linked to the sensitivity of believers and Islam gives it a central place in its teaching, so much so that cloisters, churches and synagogues were mentioned before mosques.

However, it is sad to note that some Muslims have not been able to comprehend this clear and marvellous teaching brought by the Prophetsa of Islam and practised by him and his Companionsra. This is why the behaviour of some Muslims in Niger with regard to the caricatures is to be condemned

as strongly as possible.

The reality is that the clarity of this Islamic teaching can only be perceived by those who have accepted the long-awaited Reformer, the one prophesied by the Holy Founder of Islam.

What was the teaching of this Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi? In his last publication, A Message of Peace, he proposed that if it helped, cows – which Hindus hold sacred – would not be consumed by Ahmadi Muslims, provided that the Prophetsa of Islam was not ridiculed and attacked.

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas stated: “It is essential to show sincere sympathy for our Hindu brothers; kindness and generosity must govern our relations with them. We must avoid all things that might offend them, provided that they are not compulsory and not compulsory in the exercise of our religion. Thus, if Hindus accept and believe in good faith that our Holy Prophet is a true messenger of God, the apple of contention that is the slaughter of cows will also be removed. We are not obliged to use anything we believe is permissible; there are many things that are permitted to us but which we have never used. Kindness and tolerance towards Hindus is one of the precepts of our religion; among these is also the knowledge that God is one, without associates; and it is not contrary to divine law to give priority to one thing that is necessary and advantageous over another that is not.

“Believing that one thing is permissible and using it are two quite different things.

Religion is that philosophy which prevents the use of the things forbidden by God and enjoins to follow the path of His pleasure; it advocates goodness, benevolence and sympathy for His creatures; and enjoins to accept, without making distinctions, all the prophets and messengers who came into the world at different times as envoys and reformers; and to work for the betterment of all mankind. This is the final word of our religion.”

He also states: “Note how God in the Holy Quran teaches us courtesy and manners. He says: ‘And revile not those whom they call upon beside Allah, lest they, out of spite, revile Allah in their ignorance.’

(Surah al-An‘am, Ch.6: V.109) “Although God teaches that idols have no reality, He advises Muslims not to vilify them and to advance their arguments with great courtesy; in short, not to provoke idolaters so that they do not insult God in return. Otherwise, Muslims will be solely responsible for these insults.

“On the other hand, what is the position of those who demean this great prophet of Islam, who insult him and who vulgarly seek to undermine his honour and character? It is this same prophet, in hearing whose name the great monarchs of Islam descend from their thrones; at whose orders they bow down and of whom they boast of being the humblest servants; is not such honour from God? To despise someone who is honoured

by God is wishing to fight with God.” As far as Charlie Hebdo is concerned, the real issue is not that of freedom of speech, but rather, the one that is addressed in most of the speeches that Huzooraa has made in parliaments; the one that is the fundamental basis for bringing lasting peace to societies: the principle of absolute justice.

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Construction of a mosque in Mombasa, Kenya Basharat Ahmed Tahir Missionary, Mombasa, Kenya

The Holy Quran says: ٰ ّٰ ۡ ّٰ َ َّ ‫ِان َما ی ۡع ُمرُ َم ٰس ِج َد الل ِہ َم ۡن ٰا َم َن ِبالل ِہ َو ال َیوۡ ِم الۡا ِخ ِر‬ ‘He alone can keep the mosques of Allah in a good and flourishing condition who believes in Allah, and the Last Day’. (Surah al-Taubah, Ch.9: V.18) The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said that whoever constructs mosques for the sake of Allah the Almighty during their life is assured a place in heaven.

Today, for the sake of spreading Islam and establishing monotheism, Jamaat-eAhmadiyya is striving to build mosques all over the world.

In 2010, a few residents accepted the message of the Promised Messiahas and entered Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in Mwakijembe, a small village 100 km northwest of Mombasa.

Rocha Matindo and Niamawi Matindo donated an acre of land for a mosque on which a two-room mud mosque was built in 2010. The men prayed in one room while the women prayed in the other.

Over time, the space became scarce and a new spacious mosque was needed. So, in August 2019, a local Arab friend founded a new mosque on the same plot, which was later completed by another sincere Ahmadi at great expense. The mosque was completed in September 2020, by the grace of Allah.

This beautiful mosque covers an area of 1,360 square feet. There are two halls that can accommodate more than 200 worshipers. Washrooms, ablution facilities,

water and other basic facilities have also been provided.

May Allah the Almighty reward the best of this world and the Hereafter to those

who made the construction of this mosque possible. May Allah the Almighty fill it with worshipers and make it a beacon of guidance and light for many. Amin.

“Discover Islam NZ” visits Te Awamutu Sabahuzafar Missionary, New Zealand

Tasleem Ahmad Sahib reports that Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya New Zealand recently launched a new tabligh campaign called “Discover Islam NZ”.

In addition to the launch of a new website, which provides a one-stop source of Islamic teachings, it aims to introduce New Zealanders to the true teachings of Islam and to remove misunderstandings.

The DiscoverIslam.NZ website features a growing library of articles, FAQs and blogs.

A variety of projects have been initiated by the Discover Islam NZ team. These initiatives are being held nationwide, with the aim of bringing the message of Islam to the people and dispelling common misconceptions associated with the faith.

Some of these projects include the “MeetYourMuslimNeighbour” initiative where we engage with people in localised meeting spots, including on neighbourhood streets and roads where we have open, honest discussions. Another one being the “Islam Table Talk” sessions, which allows New Zealanders to meet and chat with Muslim Kiwis in informal and candid

settings over a cup of coffee. Naturally, this helps to break down barriers and foster dialogue and understanding.

The Discover Islam NZ team has held these initiatives in Thames, Te Awamutu, Raglan, Cambridge and Hamilton thus far as part of the campaign.

On 9 September 2020, the Discover

Islam NZ team visited Te Awamutu, a town located 150 km south of Auckland. Along with the “Meet Your Muslim Neighbour” street campaign, two “Islam Table Talk” sessions were held in the town centre.

A Discover Islam NZ delegation also had lengthy meetings with Ms Barbara Kuriger, Member of Parliament for Taranaki

and Mayor of Waipa, Mr Jim Mylchreest at their respective offices.

In addition to this, the campaign has received coverage on social media and local news platforms – the visit to Te Awamutu was featured in an article on the NZ Herald/ Te Awamutu Courier with another followup article to be published soon.

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

Converts in America, Ahmadis teaching Islam in Nigeria and England Al Fazl, 23-27 September 1920

America By the grace of God, tabligh work is progressing rapidly here. Two more persons converted to Islam after the last report.

The name of the first one is Mr Ralph Tatin. He works on a ship and is the noble son of madam Sadiqatul Nisa. She became a Muslim nearly 10 years ago, but Ralph was under the influence of Christians. However, his mother’s tarbiyat and tabligh continued to draw him towards Islam.

Recently, he started to meet me as well. In this way, he accepted Islam after much tabligh and persuasion. He was given the Islamic name Bashir. The second person is Mr Johnston, who lives in the city of Kingston. He converted to Islam [after accepting the true message] through correspondence.

On the directions of Hazrat Imam Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, which were published in his article of Al Fazl, Anjuman Hifazate-Islam [an association to look after the welfare and interests of Islam] has been established in America. Mr Mahini, editor of an Arabic newspaper, has been elected as its secretary and this humble one has been entrusted with its presidency.

Owing to some ongoing circumstances in this country, it has been deemed appropriate to set up the headquarters of this [Ahmadiyya] mission in Chicago, instead of New York. New York is on one side and Chicago is relatively in the centre.

Thus, until further notice, the address for sending mail in future will be as follows: Mufti Mohammad Sadiq C/o Post Office General Delivery, Chicago, Illinois, USA Surprisingly, the inflation in this country

continues to rise even though the war is over. Every other day, the milkman or other shopkeepers send a notice that the price of goods will increase by [the equivalent of] half an anna [a unit of currency formerly used in the subcontinent, equal to 1/16 of a rupee] or one anna per pound [weight].

I sent some envelopes to friends with my address on it, but the firsthand experience shows that those envelopes were of low quality and not good enough for such a long journey. Secondly, now that the address has also changed, no one should bother to use those envelopes.

Newspapers of this country often publish very offensive articles about Islam and the people of Islam. I try to write their answers as soon as [they are published], but the difficultly I experience is that the editors show reluctance in accepting my article because they are either biased themselves or are fearful of their biased readers. The actual solution of this problem is to publish our own monthly magazine, but it will require at least a hundred dollars a month for the first year.

This week, a rich man’s bird died here and its funeral procession was carried out with great fanfare. Thousands of rupees were wasted and many loafers went to the cemetery along the funeral. This sort of practice is also present here. ([Hazrat Mufti] Muhammad Sadiq[ra], 7 August 1920) Nigeria After quoting the news of Maulvi Mubarak Ali Sahib BA, BT’s [tabligh] tour to Nigeria, which was published in the issue of 23 August [1920], the newspaper Humasar Sadaqat, Lahore, states:

“Although we are not Ahmadis, we have to acknowledge the passion and commitment of our Ahmadi friends for the tabligh of Islam. Nigeria is a large country located in the west of Africa. People travelling to Nigeria by ship or train have to travel a long way via the UK. One of our friends from Lahore, who works in a government department in Nigeria, used to reach there in a period of three months. The situation in Nigeria that we have heard from our friend indicates that the state of Islam and its followers in this western part of Africa is very sad and there is a dire need for tabligh of Islam. It would certainly be a remarkable achievement if Maulvi Mubarak Ali Sahib teaches the Muslims of Nigeria, who are living a very low and pitiable life in terms of religious knowledge, the same pure teachings of Islam that brought the darkness of the world to light 1,300 years ago. All except a few of our religious scholars are devoting their full power to the destruction and humiliation of each other, rather than [focusing on] the tabligh of Islam. This [behaviour] presents a very bad picture of Islam to non-Muslim nations.

If religious leaders are in state of such transgression, what can we expect from ordinary [Muslims]?” (Humasar Sadaqat, Lahore, 16 September 1920) We assure the Humasar Sadaqat [newspaper] that Maulvi Mubarak Ali Sahib will spread the same Islam in Nigeria that the Holy Prophetsa brought. Moreover, he will enlighten the people of Nigeria with the same light that shone three hundred years ago, and which has been veiled by those who are mentioned by Sadaqat at the end of their article. However, the Promised Messiahas removed that [veil] and it [the light of Islam] is shining brighter day by day.

Spreading Islam in England Acceptance of Islam Miss Victoria Norton, who has been engaged in research for almost a month and listened intently to the speeches of missionaries for hours, has finally, (as mentioned in last week’s letter), sincerely announced her conversion to Islam. She has been given the Muslim name of Islam. This esteemed lady is very passionate to share that same light with other people which has illumined her heart. Hence, she regularly talks to different

women and men about the unity of God, the messengership of the Holy Prophetsa, the death of Prophet Jesusas and the arrival of the Promised Messiahas. She belongs to the upper middle class and has a [good] job. Her monthly salary is [the equivalent of] 140 rupees. She spends her spare time in increasing her knowledge and carrying out tabligh. Members of the Jamaat are requested to pray that Allah the Almighty may grant her perseverance and make her a source of guidance for many other people.

Lecture in Eastbourne At the request of the Spiritualist Society, Eastbourne, Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal Sahib MA delivered two lectures, on the subject of dua [prayer] and the second coming of the Messiah, at their hall situated in Eastbourne.

Eastbourne is located on the coastline and is considered one of England’s most popular summer resorts. Highly qualified people visit this place quite frequently.

By the grace of God, both lectures of Maulvi Sahib were successful. After the speeches, some of the delighted and influenced audience expressed their thoughts in nice words. They strongly confirmed what was said about the teachings of Islam and the second coming of the Messiah and requested the erudite speaker to increase their knowledge by giving more lectures in future. There was also a great opportunity to carry out individual tabligh in Eastbourne. Hence, the message of truth was conveyed to many blessed souls [in person].

Eid Mubarak Eid-ul-Adha prayers were led on Tuesday, 24 August [1920] at Ahmadiyya Darul-Tabligh [mission house] by Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal Sahib. After the prayers, the esteemed speaker explained the philosophy of sacrifice and the real purpose of this Eid of Muslims and advised the Western Ahmadis to get ready for any kind of sacrifice for the promulgation of the rightful Jamaat and to progress in righteousness and purity.

During the prayers, the women stood separately in the back row [to offer Salat] and they were informed about the true significance of this Islamic instruction.

As the Eid did not come in holidays, some friends had to take special leave and there were some who could not get leave despite their best efforts. Hence, where Miss Victoria Norton took an entire day off, Amatullah was forced to write the following Continued on next page >>

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Eastbourne, England

<< Continued from previous page

letter because of her busy schedule: “I will remember 24th and though absent, will join at 11am with you in prayers to Allah.”

The Ahmadiyya Jamaat of London celebrated Eid at the Ahmadiyya Dar-ulDawat [tabligh house] and prayed to God, Who has always granted strength to the weak and blessed His minority [communities] to increase in numbers, that He may prevail the ummah of Ahmadas in the Western countries.

Dear friends! London Jamaat wishes you a happy Eid on this auspicious occasion and requests you to pray to Allah the Almighty for their religious and worldly progress.

Second coming of the Messiah It seems necessary to say this much about the second coming of Messiah that currently, people are thinking a lot about this subject. The people here are in a state of frustration and each sect, according to its own interpretation, believes that the time of the Messiah’s arrival is now very near.

Most of the new sects being formed here emphasise on the second coming [of Messiah] in one way or another. For example, spiritualists and theosophists are two movements. Followers of spiritualism like the theosophists are also anxiously waiting for the appearance of the Messiah.

Moreover, a positive sign is that these new factions believe that the Messiah will not come back from the heaven, but will be [a chosen] person from the people of the world. It is for this reason that talking to these people does not present the same difficulties as talking to the Muslims of India, who possess old school ideas. Hence, these people listen to our beliefs with great attention and satisfaction. Islam will certainly prove sufficient for this current religious revolution that is emerging in England, insha-Allah.

In spite of all these circumstances, we are surprised when our Lahori friends insist that the time has not yet come to spread the message of Prophet Ahmadas in England.

In the sight of Allah the Almighty, the time has come and He has sent the Promised Messiahas. That time has not only come in view of the people of God the Almighty but has also passed according to some. However, our [Paighami] friends are still persistent in denying [this truth]. Let us see how much longer they continue in this stubborn and deliberate disregard of the truth. ([Hazrat] Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyar[ra])

Day of peace in the city of Troy on International Day of Peace Syed Shamshad Nasir Missionary, USA

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib of Detroit, Michigan reports that Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Detroit participated in the 2020 International Day of Peace, hosted

by Troy Area Interfaith Group (TIG) in collaboration with the KYND (Know Your Neighbour Daily) on 17 September 2020.

The Troy Area Interfaith Group exists to invite all faith communities to gather, grow and give for the sake of promoting the common values of love, peace, and justice amongst all religions locally and globally. The TIG believes that peace amongst people and nations requires peace among the religions.

The programme was organised to share prayers and readings about peace from faith leaders of different traditions, officials, and members of our community. Ahmadi Missionary, Shamshad Nasir Sahib was also among the speakers. The mayor of Troy also attended and spoke during the programme.

The programme moderator Edward Chezick of Shir Tikvah introduced the agenda and briefly introduced the Interfaith leaders and public officials.

He then invited Rev Christina Hallam of the North Minister to present and read prayers from the Bible. She read prayers from the Holy Bible and at the end thanked him for the invitation and the opportunity to present.

Following that, the moderator invited Shamshad Nasir Sahib of Michigan to address and read prayers from the Holy Quran.

Shamshad Nasir Sahib started off by thanking the organisers for putting

together such a needed programme during these difficult times. He then introduced Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community believes in the finality of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. We believe in the five pillars of Islam and in the coming of the Messiah foretold by every major religion along with Prophet Muhammadsa”, said Shamshad Sahib.

He then explained that we believe that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian is the Messiah and Mahdi. He laid the foundation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in 1889 and died in 1908.

After his demise, his successorship started and now we are in the time of his Fifth Khalifa, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, may Allah be his Helper.

“These kinds of programmes are the only way to bridge the differences between communities and we welcome such efforts”, said Shamshad Sahib.

He further said that, “We all need to come together to bring peace in our homes, communities, and the world. Individually we can work to bring peace in our homes but collectively we can work together to bring peace in our society. We welcome everyone in our mosque in obeying the teachings that Prophet Muhammadsa taught us, which is to love and live in peace and harmony.”

“We must love people as only prayers will do nothing if we hate others on one hand and pray on the other. God does not like people who are cruel and usurp the rights of others. We must cleanse our hearts, respect each other as per the teachings of the Holy Quran”, said

Shamshad Sahib.

Shamshad Nasir Sahib then recited verses of the Surah al-Fatihah, the verses of which praise the Almighty God and contain prayers for humanity. He concluded his dissertation by providing the translation of the verses he recited.

Edward Chezick invited Rabbi Menachem Caytak of the Jewish Center of Troy. Rabbi Menachem narrated a story on the Jewish inmates and the sufferings they went through and then urged for peace in our lives. He later prayed from his scriptures.

Padma Kuppa represented the Hindu Faith and read prayers from the Hindu scriptures.

Mayor of the City of Troy, Ethan Baker then thanked all the organisers and the attendees for organising such a wonderful programme. He then presented a proclamation on behalf of the City of Troy. He mentioned that in 1984, the UN declared 17 September as the International Day of Peace. Mayor Baker declared 17 September 2020 as the “Day of Peace in the City of Troy”.

Then Mr Yunus, Chairman of the Intercultural Association of Michigan, was invited to say a few words. He highlighted that we needed peace and harmony now more than ever due to so many things happening in the world, including Covid-19. He also read verses of the Holy Quran.

At the conclusion, Edward Chezick thanked all the presenters, faith leaders, public officials and the attendees.

Approximately 56 people attended the programme.

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 28 August 2020 The Promised Messiah and Mahdi: Hakam and Adl After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

In this era, according to His promise, Allah the Almighty sent the Imam of the Age, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in subservience to the Holy Prophetsa as the Hakam [judge] and Adl [just arbiter]. The Hakam and Adl was to gather all Muslims as one Ummah [nation] in light of the true teachings of Islam. He was to eliminate the erroneous interpretations and subsidiary disputes of the various groups and sects, thereby uniting the Muslims under one Ummah.

Today, we see that Muslims from every sect, who have carefully pondered and felt the pain owing to the disputes between various sects within Islam, have used their knowledge, wisdom and prayer and joined the community of the Promised Messiahas. Each year, hundreds of thousands continue to join the fold.

The Ahmadiyya Jamaat has not been established on the basis of differences that exist between various sects and groups, or owing to their differences of opinion, or their difference in their interpretations and commentaries; rather, this community has been established in the Latter Days by the true servant of the Holy Prophetsa in accordance with the prophecy made by the Holy Prophetsa and the promise of Allah the Almighty. Having pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas, it is this community that will bring an end to the disputes between the Shias and the Sunnis or between any other group or sect for that matter; and thus enable them to become united as one Ummah. We are to establish a single Ummah by informing the Muslims of the true teachings of Islam.

The Promised Messiahas was commissioned for this purpose and established this community in accordance with the commandment of Allah the Almighty. In order to fulfil this task, Allah the Almighty revealed to the Promised Messiahas that he should “gather together all Muslims who are on the Earth under one religion.” (Tadhkirah, p. 763, [English Edition, 2009]) After the Promised Messiahas, this task is now the responsibility of the community established by him and is to be carried out by pledging allegiance to the institution of Khilafat. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, this is exactly what we have been doing for the past 130 years. Or if we consider it from the inception of Khilafat, then we have been fulfilling this task for

the past 112 years, whereas prior to this, the Promised Messiahas was carrying out this duty. Not only are we conveying the teachings of the Holy Quran, sunnah [practice] of the Holy Prophetsa and the authentic ahadith [sayings of the Holy Prophetsa] in light of the profound explanations of the Imam, Hakam, and Adl of this age to Muslims, but we are also conveying the beautiful teachings of Islam to non-Muslims and thus bringing them into the fold of Islam.

In this manner, the community of the Promised Messiahas – the Hakam and Adl – has been established to eliminate the differences [between Muslims] and despite facing opposition, lawsuits, hardships and verbal abuse, we continue to spread the message of peace and harmony and

extend our prayers for everyone.

Indeed, we will never stop from spreading the true message and speaking the truth, and for this we continue to offer sacrifices as well. We have never resorted to violence or used foul language, nor will we ever do so. Divine communities face opposition and have to endure injustices as well, but ultimately, Allah the Almighty grants them victory.

As I mentioned, we will continue to pray and strive to spread the message of the Imam of the Age to the people of every religion in every country. At the same time, I say to all Muslims – those who possess an earnest disposition, those who are in search of the truth, those who possess knowledge and wisdom and desire to bring an end to all conflict and discord – that they ought ponder over this matter.

Aside from the initial few decades, Muslims have been embroiled in discord for centuries, as a result of which their unity and oneness has weakened.

Currently, we are passing through the month of Muharram, which is the first month of the Islamic calendar.

Upon the New Year, according to the Gregorian calendar, we congratulate one another; however, it is unfortunate that on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, it is marred with violence and bloodshed owing to the sectarian divisions in Muslim countries.

Why do the adherents of a faith, which presents the most exemplary teachings of peace and harmony, begin the new year with conflict, disorder, violence and bloodshed? We must reflect upon this and

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bring about a change in our actions; we must think of how we can bring Muslims together as a single ummah and eliminate such acts of disorder and extremism.

We must ponder over the fact that while our master, Hazrat Khatam-ulAnbiya, [Seal of Prophets], Muhammadsa, the Chosen One, foretold that after the initial era of Islam’s progress, it would be followed by a period of spiritual darkness [Faij-e-A‘waj], at the same time, he also gave glad tidings regarding the establishment of Khilafat upon the precepts of prophethood in the Latter Days.

Hence, the very matter that previously caused discord amongst the Muslims [i.e. the dispute over Khilafat] will, in the Latter Days, prove to be the very factor that unites the Muslims as one Ummah, which is the establishment of Khilafat on the precepts of prophethood. This will manifest as a sign for the success and unity of Muslims. Thus, when the conditions [of the world] are demonstrating to us that the signs mentioned in the Holy Quran and the hadith are being fulfilled, or have already been fulfilled, then should we not search for the Hakam and Adl and the true servant of the Holy Prophetsa, who will unite us all and bring an end to the disagreements between the Shias, Sunnis

and all other sects and groups?

Do not follow these spiritually blind, so-called ulema [Muslim clerics], who are not only drowning themselves, but are also dragging a large number of Muslims with them.

When the signs mentioned in the Holy Quran and the hadith have been fulfilled, then it is our duty to search for the one who has been commissioned by Allah the Almighty for the revival of Islam. Indeed, someone should have been appointed for this task. As Ahmadis, we believe that this person is the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, who was entrusted with this duty and through whom Allah the Almighty is reviving Islam and will continue to do so. He is to remove these conflicts and disorders and establish peace and harmony.

Thus, if we possess true understanding, then we must not regard Muharram as a month for merely expressing sorrow or venting our anger, malice and rancour, nor should we make it a mere means of expressing our emotions. Instead, we should make this a month of expressing love and affection for one another.

We must follow the one who has been appointed as the Hakam and Adl in this present age by the Allah the Almighty

for our guidance. Only then can we be regarded as true Muslims and lead the world. Whilst talking to a scholar, the Promised Messiahas, on one occasion, stated: “My status is not that of a mere maulvi [cleric], rather my status is that of a prophet. Accept me as one who has been divinely commissioned and all of these disputes and hostilities found amongst Muslims can be resolved once and for all. The meanings of the Holy Quran, as understood by the one who has been sent

by God as the Hakam and Adl, will be the true meanings. Likewise, the authentic hadith will be those that he deems to be authentic. Ponder over whether the disputes and hostilities between Shias and Sunnis ever come close to being resolved?”

In fact, they remain unresolved to this day. “If Shias practice tabarrah”, meaning they speak ill of the first three Khulafa and use harsh language against them, “on the other hand, there are others who say the following regarding Hazrat Alira, may Allah bestow him with honour. ‫ش‬ ‫� املئ‬ ِ ‫رَب الختف ِدل َ ْ� َ ب‬ ‫ش‬ ‫� َد ْر ِ َ ی‬ ‫ماں احلئ‬ ْ‫یِل وُبرکب ُ د‬ (That is to say that his heart was well and truly set upon Khilafat, but the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakrra impeded him, i.e. it was the desire of Hazrat Alira [to attain khilafat]).

“However, I say that they can only attain the truth if they abandon this way of theirs and associate themselves with me. If this does not convince them, then at least let it be known that everyone shall eventually die and death can never purify the filth [of this life].” In other words, one can never rid themselves of the filth they carry into the Hereafter. “If foul language and abuse are loathsome even in the sight of a noble individual, then how can one stand before God, the Holy, for worship?”

If a person commits wrongful acts and injustices, his worship to God Almighty cannot be deemed true worship. The Promised Messiahas further states: “This is why I say that you should come and listen to me so that you may see the truth for yourselves. My desire is to completely remove the cloak [of erroneous beliefs and harmful innovations].

Become a true believer by repenting with utmost sincerity.” One must remove the cloak of erroneous beliefs and harmful innovations. One can only become a believer through true repentance. “Let it be known that I am the Imam you eagerly await. Hence, seek its proofs from me.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 140-141) Thus, to develop a true understanding of faith, one must put an end to mutual conflicts and destroy their egos and turn to Allah the Almighty, whilst making supplications to Him and seeking His repentance. However, this can only happen when one cleanses their heart of all impurities and prostrates before Allah the Almighty. It is only then that Allah the Almighty will bestow His guidance. Whilst explaining the lofty rank and honour of the Khulafa-e-Rashideen [rightly-guided Khulafa], the Promised Messiahas states: “I know for certain that no one can

be deemed a true believer nor a Muslim until they instil within themselves the qualities of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Usmanra and Hazrat Alira, may Allah be pleased with them all. Their hearts were pure from the love of this world and instead, they devoted their lives in the way of God Almighty.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 8, pp. 260-261) Thus, according to the Promised Messiahas, such was their lofty status that for one to become a true believer and a Muslim, they must take all four Khulafa their examples.

In such an instance, there will no longer remain any dispute between the sects, nor will there remain any difference of beliefs. Thus, according to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s belief, all four Khulafa are examples for us. And when this is the belief held by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, then will this community not be the one that puts an end to the differences between the other Muslims and establishes unity in them?

All four rightly-guided Khulafa possess a special rank and status and the Promised Messiahas has described each of their ranks in great detail on different occasions.

I shall present some extracts of his so that we may recognise their respective ranks and so that the new Ahmadis and the youth may also understand what our beliefs and doctrines are. The Promised Messiahas states: “Even in that era”, i.e. in the very early days, during the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, “Musaylimah had gathered the people on teachings of freedom from divine law”, i.e. by presenting false interpretations, he made lawful that which was wrong, merely to gather the people with himself. “It was in such a time that Hazrat Abu Bakrra became the Khalifa and so anyone can imagine the number of difficulties that would have arisen at such a juncture.

“If Hazrat Abu Bakrra had not been strong-hearted and if his faith was not similar in nature to the faith of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, he would have grown apprehensive and this could have spelled catastrophe. However, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra was similar in hue to the Prophetsa”, i.e. he was always in the shade of the Holy Prophet’ssa influence. “Moreover, the morals of the Holy Prophetsa had left an impress on his character and his heart was replete with the light of certainty; this is why he exhibited an example of bravery and perseverance, which is unparalleled after the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

“Abu Bakrra brought a death upon himself for the life of Islam. This is an issue that does not require a lengthy discussion. Simply study the events of that era and then weigh the service that Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, rendered for Islam. I truthfully say that Abu Bakrra was a second Adam for Islam. I am convinced that after the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, if the person of Abu Bakr Siddiqra had not

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

existed, there would be no Islam.”

That is to say that God Almighty appointed Hazrat Abu Bakrra to protect Islam from the attacks of the enemy and to safeguard the Shariah. Hazrat Abu Bakrra revived Islam by means of the special training and extraordinary connection he had with the Holy Prophetsa and he rendered the assaults of the enemy futile.

The Promised Messiahas further states: “Abu Bakr Siddiqra has rendered an incredible service for us, for he established Islam again. Through the strength of his faith, he brought all of the rebels to account and established peace. God Almighty had stated and promised that he would bring peace at the hand of the true Khalifa and this prophecy was fulfilled in the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra. Heaven and earth bore witness to this practically as well. Hence, this is the definition of a truthful one (siddiq); such a person must possess within themselves such level of truth and sincerity (sidq).” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 94-95, (English Edition)) Then, whilst describing the qualities and status of Hazrat Umarra, the Promised Messiahas stated on one occasion: “Are you aware of the lofty rank of Hazrat Umarra amongst the Companions?

It was to the extent that at times, the Holy Quran would be revealed and it would be in accordance with the opinion he held. Furthermore, there is a hadith in praise of him that Satan would flee from the shadow of Umarra. Likewise, there is another hadith that if there was to be a prophet after the Holy Prophetsa, it would be Hazrat Umarra. Thirdly, there is the hadith, ‘Muhadditheen [recipients of Divine revelations] have appeared amongst my people before you. If there was such a person among my people, it is Umar.’” (Izala-e-Auham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 3, p. 219) In another instance, whilst mentioning Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Usmanra together, the Promised Messiahas states: “My Lord has revealed to me that Siddiq [Hazrat Abu Bakr], Farooq

[Hazrat Umar] and Uthman, may Allah be pleased with them all, were pious believers, who were among the chosen ones of Allah the Almighty and were favoured with the special bounties of the Gracious God. Furthermore, many a wise person has borne witness to their virtues.

They left their lands for the pleasure of the Honourable and Glorious God; they entered the furnace of every battle, and they cared not for the scorching midday heat of every summer, nor the cold of the night of every winter, rather they marched forward along the paths of their faith like youthful young men, inclining neither to their own people, nor to others and they bade farewell to everything, all for the sake of the Lord of all the Worlds. Their actions were imbued with a sweet fragrance and their deeds with an aroma. All of this points to the gardens of their rank and the orchards of their good deeds. Likewise, the aromatic breezes of their zephyr [soft, sweet-smelling wind] reveals their intricate qualities, and their light becomes manifest to us with all its radiance.” (Sirrul-Khilafah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, p.

326, Urdu Translation, pp. 25-26) Many of these extracts I am quoting are from the Arabic book Sirr-ul-Khilafah.

The Arabic translators may not be able to translate it live to this level, but when the repeat of this sermon is broadcast, they can use the original references from this book.

Whilst mentioning the attributes and the rank of Hazrat Alira, the Promised Messiahas states: “Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, was righteous and pious. He was a beloved of Allah, the Gracious God. He was the elect of Allah and the chief of his era.

He was the victorious lion of Allah, the Benevolent, a pure hearted and generous youth who belonged to God. He was peerless and his bravery was such that he would remain resolute in the battlefield, even if an army from among the enemy stood in front of him.

“He lived his life with great humility, reaching the highest peak of piety that

a mortal can attain. He would sacrifice his money and wealth and was the foremost in consoling and helping the destitute, orphans and neighbours. On the battlefield, he demonstrated extraordinary feats of bravery and displayed a miraculous skill in handling the sword and spear.

“At the same time, he was softly spoken and an eloquent orator. His words would penetrate the hearts of the listeners and remove the corrosion of their minds. His countenance shone bright with the light of truth. He was an outstanding orator; whosoever competed with him in this field would themselves step down, overpowered and defeated [by his eloquence]. His every attribute was outstanding and he was flawless in his speech and eloquence. He who denies his perfection adopts the way of the shameless.” (Sirr-ul-Khilafah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, p. 358, [Urdu Translation, pp. 108-110]) With regard to Hazrat Ali’sra rank and his Khilafat, the Promised Messiahas says: “There is no doubt that Hazrat Alira was a hope for the seekers of the truth and an unparalleled model of generosity. He was divine proof for the people and the best example of his time. He was the light of Allah that was to illuminate the world.

But the era of his Khilafat was not a time of peace and safety, but a time of intense conflict and discord. People differed between his Khilafat and the Khilafat of Ibn Abi Sufyan and would look to them in a state of utter perplexity. Some people considered them to be like two bright furqad stars [of the Ursa Minor] and considered them equal in stature. The fact of the matter is that the truth was on the side of [Ali] Al-Murtaza. Those who fought against him were rebellious and transgressors.” (Sirr-ul-Khilafah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, [Urdu Translation, pp.

95-96]) Then, with regard to the services the four Khulafa-e-Rashideen rendered for Islam and safeguarding the Holy Quran and how they discharged this trust bestowed upon them, the Promised

Messiahas says: “It is vital to believe that Siddiq-eAkbarra [Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq], Hazrat Farooq-e-Umarra [Hazrat Umar Farooq], Hazrat Zhun-Nurainra [Hazrat Usman] and Hazrat Ali Murtazara were all the custodians of the faith. For Islam, Abu Bakrra was the second coming of Adam; similarly, if Hazrat Umar Farooqra and Hazrat Usmanra did not show sincerity in the trust bestowed upon them, then it would be impossible for us to consider even one verse of the Quran to be from Allah the Almighty.” (Maktubaat-eAhmad, Vol. 2, p. 151, Maktub No. 2, addressed to Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan Sahibra) With regard to the four Khulafa, the Promised Messiahas states: “By Allah! They were such men who, in support of the Best of Creation [i.e. the Holy Prophetsa], would remain steadfast in the battlefields, staring death in the face. For the sake of Allah, they gave up their fathers and sons and slashed them to pieces with their sharpened swords. They entered battle against their loved ones and severed their heads. They surrendered their desires, wealth and even their lives for the sake of Allah. Despite these tremendous sacrifices, they wept and expressed regret that their deeds were not enough.” They did not show any pride over their virtuous deeds.

“They never once experienced deep and restful sleep, but instead, would sleep very little which was merely the rest their body necessitated. They never desired the luxuries of this life. How then is it possible to assert that they were guilty of oppression, usurping from others and committing injustices? The fact of the matter is that they had completely abandoned all worldly desires and had resigned themselves to the threshold of God. They were the ones who completely devoted themselves in the way of Allah.”

(Sirr-ul-Khilafah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, p. 328 [Urdu Translation, p. 32]) Thus, this is the true understanding of the rank and station of the four Khulafa as

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explained to us by the Promised Messiahas.

A Muslim will only be deemed a true Muslim when one recognises the rank and honour of these noble men and it is by removing their mutual differences [with other Muslims] that they can become part of one Ummah. Otherwise, conflict and internal disputes can be of no benefit to Islam. The enemy, however, will use this to their advantage and indeed, they are doing so as we are witnessing in this day and age.

Thus, today, if one wishes to serve Islam and has the desire to safeguard it, then this can only be achieved by attaching oneself to the Champion of Allah, whom Allah the Almighty sent for this very purpose in this present era.

As I mentioned earlier, currently we are passing through the month of Muharram; tomorrow, or the day after, is 10 Muharram and on this day, Shias express their sentiments with reference to the martyrdom of Hazrat Hussainra.

Undoubtedly, the manner in which Hazrat Hussainra was martyred was truly barbaric.

During these days, when Shias express their sentiments for Hazrat Hussainra and Hazrat Alira or any other time for that matter, they also hold the view that the Promised Messiahas and his Jamaat do not understand the true status of the family of the Holy Prophetsa. The Ahmadiyya Community has always dispelled this misconception. From the extracts of the Promised Messiahas, some of which I mentioned today, one can clearly understand what Hazrat Ali’sra rank and honour was in the eyes of the Promised Messiahas. At the same time, we also consider the other three Khulafa to be truthful.

In any case, with reference to the writings and sayings of the Promised Messiahas, I will now mention the lofty rank and honour of the family of the Holy Prophetsa as explained by the Promised Messiahas and the advice he imparted to his community.

In his book, Sirr-ul-Khilafah, the

Promised Messiahas writes regarding Hazrat Alira and his family: “He would encourage others to remove the difficulties of the helpless. He would command to feed the poor and needy.

He was among those who were honoured with the nearness of God and the foremost people who drank from the fountain of the Quran’s wisdom and was gifted with a deep understanding and insight of the intricacies of the Quran.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “I have seen him” i.e. Hazrat Alira, “not in a dream, but rather in a state of wakefulness. I met him in a vision [kashf] and whilst in this state, Hazrat Alira bestowed upon me the commentary of the Book of Allah, the Knower of the Unseen, and said, ‘This is my commentary, and now it is bestowed upon you; rejoice for that which has been bestowed upon you.’

“Thus, I stretched forth my hand and took the commentary and thanked Allah, the Mighty and Bestower of All Things. I found Hazrat Alira to be of proportionate build, possessing moral excellence, humble, strong, and had a radiant countenance.

“I affirm, on oath, that Hazrat Alira met me with great love and affection. It was conveyed to me that he knew me and was aware of my beliefs and he was also aware that my views and beliefs were opposed to the beliefs held by the Shias. But he never expressed any sort of displeasure or disapproval at this, nor did he turn away from me. Instead he met like one’s beloved and showed me great affection just like a true and sincere friend would do so.

“He was accompanied by both Hassanra and Hussainra and by the Chief of the Messengers, the Seal of the Prophetssa.

Also in their company was a very beautiful, righteous young woman of high status; she was blessed, pure, dignified and worthy of honour: her inner and outer qualities were infused with spiritual light. I found her to be in a state of grief, which she was trying to suppress. It was conveyed to me that she was Fatimah al-Zahra.

“I was lying down as she approached me and sat down next to me. She placed my head upon her thigh and was most kind to me. I noticed that she was sorrowful and anxious on account of my troubles, as mothers are anxious on account of the tribulations of their children.”

The maulvis [clerics] who have polluted minds raise allegations against this extract where the Promised Messiahas has written that Hazrat Fatimahra placed his head on her thigh. The Promised Messiahas is saying this in the context of how a mother shows affection to her child; however, how can one explain this to people whose minds are polluted. When ordinary Muslims hear their statements, they think that Hazrat Fatimahra has been dishonoured, God forbid. The Promised Messiahas clarifies it further on by saying that she expressed her affectionate just like that of a mother [to her child].

Nonetheless, the Promised Messiahas further states: “It was then conveyed to me that my relationship with her”, i.e. with Hazrat Fatimahra, “was like that of a spiritual son.

It passed through my mind that her sorrow was an indication of the persecution that I was to undergo at the hands of my people, countrymen and enemies. Then Hassanra and Hussainra approached me and expressed their affection towards me like that of brothers and met me like kind well-wishers. This vision was one of those that I experienced while I was awake and this took place many years ago. I have a unique relationship with Hazrat Alira and Hazrat Hussainra, of which only God, the Lord of the east and west, knows its true reality. In fact, I have deep love for Hazrat Alira and his sons. I am an enemy of the one who their enemy. However, I am not unjust, nor am I from among the oppressors. It is not possible for me to turn away from what Allah the Almighty has revealed to me and I am not of the transgressors.” (Sirr-ul-Khilafah, Urdu translation, pp. 110-112)) On another occasion, the Promised

Messiahas states: “In this poem [qaseeda] which I have written in relation to Hazrat Imam Hussainra and Prophet Jesusas is not the work of any human effort”, rather this was revealed to the Promised Messiahas

by Allah the Almighty Himself. “Most despicable is the individual who speaks ill against such perfect and righteous individuals. I have complete conviction that not a single person can remain alive for even one night having spoken ill against such righteous individuals like Hussainra and Prophet Jesusas. Such a person will quickly be seized by the warning [of the Holy Prophetsa]: ً َ َ ‫َم ْن‬ ‫اد َول ِّیا ل ِْی‬ ‫ع‬ “‘Whoever bears enmity with my wali [friend]…’

“Thus, blessed is the one who comprehends the heavenly affairs and ponders over the works of God.” (Ijaze-Ahmadi, appendix Nuzul-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 149) The hadith which the Promised Messiahas has referred to is as follows: ْ ٗ َْ ٰ ْ َ​َ ً َ ‫َم ْن َع‬ ‫اد ل ِْی َول ِّیا فقد اذن ُتہ بِالحَ ْر ِب‬ (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Riqaq, Bab al-Tawadi‘, Hadith no. 6502) “The one who bears enmity with my wali [friend], I will announce war against him.”

When one expresses their love and affection in a private gathering, when no one else is present, it is indeed from the depths of one’s heart. Although every word of the one with such pious disposition, who Allah the Almighty has granted a lofty status, emanates from within the heart, but for those who raise allegations, it is worth knowing that what were the sentiments of the Promised Messiahas in his home [with regard to the family of the Holy Prophetsa]. These were not just expressed in his writings, sayings or in public gatherings, not did the Promised Messiahas speak about Hazrat Imam Hussainra and his love for the members of the Holy Prophet’ssa family only in front of others. In fact, he expressed his sentiments even in private settings, whilst sat at home with his children.

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra relates: “Owing to his great love for the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas also had boundless love for the Holy Prophet’ssa family and his Companionsra.

Once, during the month of Muharram, the Promised Messiahas was in his garden, resting on a charpoy [a traditional woven bed used in the Indian subcontinent].

The Promised Messiahas called our sister, Mubaraka Begumra and our late brother, Mubarak Ahmad, who was the youngest amongst our siblings, near him and stated, ‘Come, let me narrate to you the accounts of Muharram.’ The Promised Messiahas then recounted the events of Hazrat Imam Hussain’sra martyrdom in a very heartfelt manner.

“As the Promised Messiahas would narrate these events, tears would continuously flow from his eyes and he would wipe the tears away with the tips of his fingers. After the Promised Messiahas

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Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM finished narrating this very painful story, he stated in great anguish, ‘This grave injustice against the grandson of the Holy Prophetsa was carried out by the impure Yazid. However, God Almighty swiftly seized these callous people with His wrath.’ At the time, the Promised Messiahas was deeply moved and the thought of the merciless martyrdom of this beloved [grandson] of his Mastersa had left him in a state of deep anguish. This was all owing to his intense love for the Holy Prophetsa.”

(Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra, Seerat-e-Tayyibah, pp. 36-37) Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahibara has also recounted this even as she personally witnessed it. She states: “The Promised Messiahas was resting on the charpoy in the garden. Me and Mubarak brought a turtle to show the Promised Messiahas. The Promised Messiahas ignored it and stated, ‘Come, let me relate to you the accounts of Muharram.’ And so, we both sat beside him. We were still passing through the first ten days of Muharram. The Promised Messiahas then began to relate the events of Hazrat Imam Hussain’sra martyrdom.

“The Promised Messiahas stated, ‘The grandson of the Holy Prophetsa was deprived of food and water and then martyred in the fields of Karbala by the hypocrites and cruel individuals.’ The Promised Messiahas then stated, ‘On that day, the sky turned red and within a period of 40 days, the wrath of God Almighty seized the cruel murderers. They perished with all kinds of inflictions; some died of leprosy and some suffered in other ways.’ Whenever the Promised Messiahas would mention Yazid, he would refer to him as ‘Yazid, paleed [the impure]’. The Promised Messiahas narrated very lengthy accounts and his own condition was such that he was extremely emotional. Tears would flow from his eyes, which he would wipe away with his index finger.” (Hazrat Syeda Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahibara, Tahrirat-e-Mubaraka, p. 222) When a person hears about the events of this great cruelty, their hairs stand on end. It is narrated that when the enemy overpowered them, Hazrat Imam Hussainra tried to head in the direction of the Euphrates River; however, his path was blocked and someone shot an arrow, which struck him just above the chin leaving a deep wound. The perpetrators then launched a ferocious attack until Hazrat Imam Hussainra was martyred. The narrator states that prior to his martyrdom, he heard Hazrat Imam Hussainra say, “By God, after me, you will not kill anyone whose death incurs the displeasure of God more than my death.”

Thereafter, Hazrat Imam Hussainra stated, “By God, I am of the hope that God will humiliate you and grant me His mercy. And will then avenge my death on you in such a manner that you will be left astounded.”

After Hazrat Imam Hussainra was martyred, the perpetrators of this barbaric act then moved towards the camp of Hazrat Imam Hussainra, where members of his family were and began looting and even removed the veils from

the heads of the women inside. After Hazrat Imam Hussainra was martyred and his body was lying [in the battlefield], the commander of the enemy called his men and asked, “Who will trample over his body with their horses?” Ten horsemen came forward and trampled over the body of Hazrat Imam Hussainra to the extent that the bones of his ribs and back were completely crushed. According to one narration, Hazrat Imam Hussainra had 33 wounds to his body caused by spear and 43 wounds by the sword in addition to the wounds caused by the arrows. Not only that but his head was cut off and sent to the governor, who ordered for the head to be displayed in Kufa. (Tarikh Al-Tabari [translation], Vol. 4, pp. 253-257, p. 260, Dar-ul-Ishaat, Karachi, 2003) (Tarikh-eIslam, Vol. 2, Akbar Shah Najibabadi, p.

76, Nafees Academy, Urdu Bazar, Karachi, 1998) This was an act of extreme cruelty and even the most deplorable of enemies would not commit such a heinous act. I have just briefly narrated some of the events; however, when the Promised Messiahas was narrating these accounts, tears were continuously flowing from his eyes owing to his intense grief.

Thus, how can one even claim that, God-forbid, the Promised Messiahas did not have any love for the family of the Holy Prophetsa or lacked true understanding of it. In fact, on one occasion, when the Promised Messiahas learned that someone had spoken ill of Hazrat Imam Hussainra, he strictly admonished his Jamaat.

The Promised Messiahas stated: “Let it be known that I have been informed through a postal card that certain ignorant people, who associate themselves with my Jamaat, have claimed that Imam Hussainra was amongst those who rebelled owing to his refusal of doing the Bai‘at of the Khalifa of the time, i.e.

Yazid and that Yazid was on the side of the truth, God-forbid.”

The Promised Messiahas further stated: ْ َ َ ّٰ ُ َ ‫ل ْع َنت الل ِہ َعلی الْکاذِبِی َن‬ “Curse be upon the liars! I do not believe that such despicable words could be uttered by a righteous person of my Jamaat. However, the thought also crossed my mind that since many Shias have also made me a target in their gatherings in which they speak ill of other Muslims, therefore it is possible that some ignorant and uncivilised individual may have given a foolish reply in response to their foolish statements, just like those ignorant Muslims who use harsh language against Prophet Jesusas in response to those Christians who speak ill against the noble status of the Holy Prophetsa.

“In any case, through this pronouncement, I wish to inform my Jamaat that it is our belief that Yazid was of an impure disposition, vermin and an extremely cruel individual. He was completely devoid of all those traits by virtue of which one is considered a believer. To become a believer is not a simple matter. Regarding such people, Allah the Almighty states: ُ ُ َّ ُ َّ ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ َ َ َ َ ُۤ ُ ‫اب ٰا َمنا ؕ ق ۡل ل ۡم ت ۡؤ ِمنوۡا َو لٰ ِک ۡن قوۡلوۡا ا ۡسل ۡمنا‬ ‫قال ِت الاعر‬

“[The Arabs of the desert say, ‘We believe.’ Say, “You have not believed (yet); but rather say, ‘We have accepted Islam…”

(Surah al-Hujurat, Ch.49: V.15)] “A believer is one whose actions testify their belief. Their belief is ingrained in their hearts and they give precedence to God and His pleasure over everything.

They tread on the narrow and fine paths of taqwa [righteousness] for the sake of God Almighty and become completely immersed in His love. They completely distance themselves from that which appears like an idol and becomes an obstacle in reaching God; whether it is a moral condition, a sinful act or any act of indolence or negligence.

“However, the ill-fated Yazid was devoid of all these qualities. In fact, he was blinded by his love for the world.

On the other hand, Hussainra was a pious man and surely was from among the noble people whom God Almighty Himself purifies and fills them with His love and is from among the leaders of heaven. And to harbour even an iota of malice against him is detrimental to one’s faith. His righteousness, love for God, patience, steadfastness, piety and worship is a perfect model for us and we are the

followers of that guidance which was granted to that innocent one. Such a heart is completely destroyed that bears enmity towards him but one that displays love for him through his actions and perfectly reflects every trace of his faith, morals, bravery, righteousness, patience and love for God will surely succeed, Just like a clean mirror reflects the features of a beautiful person’s countenance. Such people are hidden from the eyes of the world; no one is aware of their true rank except for those who are from among them. The eyes of the world cannot perceive them for they are very far from this world. This was the very reason for Hussain’sra martyrdom, for his true status was not recognised.

Has the world ever loved the holy and noble ones during their lifetime that we would expect them to show love for Hussainra? The fact of the matter is that it is an extremely disgraceful and faithless act for one to dishonour Hussainra.

Anyone who dishonours Hussainra or those noble men from among the pure and righteous Imams or utters anything disrespectful against them, they ruin their faith because Allah, the Glorious One Himself becomes the enemy of one who bears enmity against His holy and beloved

Friday 25 September 2020 | AL HAKAM

20 servants.” (Majmua Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, pp.

653-654, Ishtihar no. 270, Tabligh-ul-Haq, Rabwah) Thus, after hearing all of this, how can one possibly say that the Promised Messiahas did not have any love for the family of the Holy Prophetsa? In fact, no one else had such true comprehension of this love as compared to the Promised Messiahas and Promised Messiahas has mentioned this himself as well. And where the Shias have exaggerated [in their narrations], the Promised Messiahas explained the true reality of the matters and similarly where the Sunnis erred, the Promised Messiahas pointed it out to them in order to reform their ways.

This indeed was the duty of the Hakam [judge] and Adl [just arbiter] and it was for the propagation and spread of the true teachings of Islam that Allah the Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas. But despite this, both of these major sects oppose the Ahmadis and make us a target of their

injustices. However, we must patiently and steadfastly continue to fulfil this mission that we have been entrusted with and for which we have pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas that we will spread the true message of Islam to the entire world.

We must always keep in mind the example demonstrated by Hazrat Imam Hussainra. In one of his couplets, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: � � ‫ی‬ �‫� �� � ی� اور آپ ��ی ��ی دى � � ی‬ � � ‫وہ‬ ‫�ی ی‬ ‫�ا � � �دا � د� � ی�� �� دو‬ [They make you like Hussainra and become like Yazid themselves; what a favourable deal this is; thus, let them fire their arrows.] (Kalam-e-Mahmud, p. 154) Insha-Allah, our present sacrifices will not go to waste. The Promised Messiahas has stated that although he has been likened to Hussainra, however, this time the outcome would be completely different because Allah the Almighty had destined

for him to succeed. This time around, the victory will manifest in apparent means as well and will be for those who possess the attributes of Hussainra and the enemy will be defeated and their efforts will go in vain. (Al Fazl International, 31 December 2010, p. 8 [Friday Sermon delivered on 10 December 2010]) (Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 8, pp. 635-636 [Friday Sermon delivered on 10 December 2010]) Thus, in times like this when the opposition against us is at its peak, especially in Pakistan, we must particularly pray in this month but generally as well we should always remain engaged in prayers. We should invoke salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa [durood] as much as possible. The more we prostrate before Allah the Almighty, the sooner He will grant us victory and success.

During these days, especially pray for the other Muslims as well because the Muslim sects are bent on shedding the blood of one another. And particularly

on 10 Muharram, as is evident from past history, the Imambargahs [Shia congregational halls] or other gatherings of Shia mournings are attacked and many are martyred for their faith as a result.

Thus, may Allah the Almighty grant them the wisdom and this year, may we not hear of any news from any country whereby Muslims have attacked other Muslims. And may these Muslims quickly understand this reality that the victory of Islam which Allah the Almighty has destined is only possible through the Promised Messiahas. May they realise that all their success lies in entering the Bai‘at of the Imam of the Age, the Promised Messiahas. May Allah the Almighty grant them the ability to understand this.

(Original Urdu Transcript published in Al Fazl International; 18 September 2020, pp.

5-9. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Written by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra, this inspiring and authoritative collection of short essays calls on the Muslim world to accept the message of the Promised Messiahas and eschew the doctrine of the second coming of Jesusas in order to bring about the revival of Islam. In a lively, vibrant and insightful manner, Huzoorra captures the attention of the reader with the cogency of his arguments and the passion of his words.

Visit: www.alislam.org/library/books/A-Call-to-Faith.pdf

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