Al Hakam - 5 March 2021

Proving the claim of the Promised Messiah’s knowledge of miraculous and profound Arabic

The blessings of Ahmadiyyat on my parents, Dr Hameed A Khan and Mrs Sajida Mubashira Khan

Part II

Part I

Answers to everyday issues Part X

Page 6

Page 12

Page 10

Hazrat Musleh-eMaud’s “American dream”

Page 19

THE WEEKLY

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www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 | Issue CLV Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

If the Khuddam’s suggestions are within the confines of Islam’s teachings, you should take them on board Mauritius Khuddam amila receives ample guidance in virtual mulaqat

Concentrate on your studies and pay attention to prayers UK Waqf-e-Nau university students get thorough direction from Huzoor

Mauritius Khuddam amila gathered for their virtual mulaqat with Huzooraa

Waqf-e-Nau university students of the UK gathered in Baitul Futuh for their virtual mulaqat with Huzooraa

Photo credit: MTA International

Photo credit: MTA International

On 27 February 2021, members of Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Mauritius’ national amila were blessed with the opportunity of meeting Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, in a virtual mulaqat.

After conveying salaam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa led everyone in dua (silent prayer), after which the amila members had the opportunity to introduce

themselves and the work assigned to them.

Throughout the mulaqat, Huzooraa provided ample guidance and direction.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa spoke with every amila member present. Below, Al Hakam presents some of the salient points of the mulaqat.

Speaking with Umar Ahmad Sooltangos Continued on page 3

On 28 February 2021, Waqf-e-Nau university students from Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya UK were given the opportunity to meet with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in a virtual meeting.

The students were situated in the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London and a live stream connected them with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa in Islamabad, UK.

The meeting started with the waqifeene-nau presenting a portion of the Holy Quran, a hadith, an extract from the writings of the Promised Messiahas and an Urdu poem written by Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra.

A short video presentation was then shown to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, Continued on page 4

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

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

Spend, and I shall spend on you َ ُ َ َ َ َ ُ َ ّٰ ‫ع ْن أب ِ ْي ه َریْ َرة َر ِﺿ َی الل ُه ع ْنہ أ ّن‬ َ ّ ٰ َّ َ َ َّ ّٰ َ ‫َر ُس ْول الل ِه َصلی الل ُه َعل ْي ِہ َو َسل َم قال‬ َ َ ْ ْ ُ َ ‫َ َ ّٰ ُ َ ْ ْ َ بْ َن‬ ‫قال الله أن ِفﻖ یا ا‬ ‫آد َم أن ِفﻖ َعل ْيك‬ Hazrat Abu Hurairah, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, ‘‘Allah said, ‘O son of Adam! Spend, and I shall spend on you.’’’

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Nafaqaat, Bab Fadl al-Nafaqah ala al-Ahl, Hadith 5352)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Two classes mentioned in Surah al-Asr Once again, I return to my original discussion and state that two groups are alluded to in Surah Asr. Firstly, there is the class of the holy and pious, and then there are the disbelievers and sinners. The disbelieving and sinful

class has been alluded to as follows:

ُ َ ‫ِا َّن الۡاِن ۡ َس‬ ‫ان ل َ ِﻔ ۡی خ ۡ� ٍر‬

‘‘Surely, man is in a state of loss.’’

Then, the other class of people has been distinguished as follows:

ّٰ ‫ِالَّا الَّ ِذیۡ َن ٰا َم ُنوۡا َو َعم ُلوا‬ ‫الص ِل ٰح ِت‬ ِ

That is to say, “There is a group that is in a state of loss, but not the believers and those who do good deeds.” From this we learn that those who are disbelievers and those who do not perform good deeds are in a state of loss. The Arabic word, salah (i.e. being sound or pious), is only applicable where there are no traces whatsoever of fasad (which, in Arabic, means to be corrupt or devoid of virtue). A person can never become a salih (i.e. a virtuous person), until they cleanse themselves of ignoble and corrupt doctrines, and then their actions also become free from corruption. The word muttaqi (i.e. a righteous person) is in the measure of the form ifti‘al and this form is used to convey a meaning of “forced or strained effort.” This demonstrates that a righteous person is forced to struggle immensely and exert an effort in doing good; and in this state, the soul reproves him for committing evil. When a person is living a beastly life, they are subject to the self that incites to evil, but when they emerge triumphant over the state where struggle is required, they enter

a state of rest. A righteous person advances from the state where the self incites to evil and enters a state where the soul rebukes him for committing evil. This is why a distinguishing feature of the righteous is that they “establish” or “set upright” their formal Prayer, as it were, because in this too there is a kind of battle that ensues.

Satanic whisperings and doubts come forth again and again to terrify a person, but they are not perturbed, and these satanic whisperings do not make them helpless. Such a one seeks assistance from God Almighty incessantly, and cries before God and weeps, until finally they prevail.

Similarly, when it comes to spending in the way of God, Satan holds them back and makes it seem to them as if spending in the cause of Allah and extravagance are one in the same, even though there is a world of difference between the two. A person who is extravagant wastes away their wealth, but a person who spends in the way of Allah, is returned everything that they spend in far greater proportion. This is why God Almighty states:

ُ ۡ َٰۡ َ ‫ِم ّما َرزﻗن ُہ ۡم یُن ِﻔقوۡ َن‬

‘‘They spend out of what We have provided for them.’’

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 192-193)

My first experience of seeing the cross “break” in Argentina Marwan Gill Missionary, Argentina

One of the most fundamental tasks of the Promised Messiahas, as prophesied by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, was to “break the cross” – to refute the false Christian doctrines with logical and theological arguments.

The numerous books and speeches of the Promised Messiahas about Christianity are a living testimony and a sign for the fulfilment of his divine task.

In my personal experience as a missionary serving in Argentina, I have always benefitted from his arguments during my conversations with Christians, but it was just a few days ago that I had my first public debate with a Christian preacher.

I must admit that I was rather nervous, not because I was not convinced of our arguments or our truthfulness, but keeping in mind my personal shortcomings. I was mainly worried about my language skills as I started learning Spanish just three years ago and I am still far away from being a native speaker.

However, before the debate, I prayed intensively to Allah that He might cover my shortcomings for the sake of the Promised Messiahas. I asked God to show

another glimpse of “breaking the cross” as I was going to represent the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas in that debate.

By the grace of Allah, during the debate I personally experienced how the arguments presented by the Promised Messiahas broke the cross almost literally.

The Christian preacher had prepared all his argumentation based on the common Sunni views about the crucifixion.

Hence, when I presented the Ahmadiyya point of view supported by the verses of the Holy Quran, he literally lost the ground under his feet.

First, he kept insisting that this view was not accepted by most Muslims, to which I replied that the criteria to examine a certain explanation was not based upon the approval of many Muslims; but rather, upon its support from the Holy Quran.

The Holy Quran clearly supports the Ahmadiyya point of view as regards the crucifixion and rejects the common Sunni belief.

Then, I even presented Biblical references, which supported our explanation and refuted his own Christian doctrine.

Initially, he ignored my arguments (which were all taken from the writings of the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa),

but surprisingly, at one point, he literally admitted that he was speechless and was not expecting to be confronted by a Muslim with Biblical references about their own Christian beliefs.

He kept on ignoring my cross questioning and finished the debate by simply saying that in this programme, he did not want to enter a theological debate about the crucifixion.

Many non-Muslims were even confused by his attitude, that “if you are inviting a Muslim to debate about the crucifixion, it sounds contradictory then to escape from theological argumentation.”

In conclusion, anyone who watches this debate with an impartial mind will conclude that the arguments mentioned by the Promised Messiahas are an effective tool to “break the cross” of Christianity and refute their false doctrines.

It was also a great reminder for me that if any Muslim wishes to serve Islam on the theological battleground against Christianity, he is compelled to adopt the point of view of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

To eliminate the root of Christianity, Muslims must prove that Jesusas did not die on the cross. And to keep the roots of Islam alive, we must let Jesusas die a natural death.

This is the teaching of Islam.

Celebrating the life of Prophet Muhammad in Canada Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

Islam is a wonderful religion and the Prophet of Islam, Muhammadsa is the greatest person in the history of mankind.

This opinion is often held by many non-Muslim scholars too. However, a large majority of people in the West are unaware of this. To comply with the standing instructions of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib instructed that Jalsa Seerat-un-Nabi be held to portray the beautiful character of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.

Abbotsford Jamaat of British Columbia took it as a challenge to do so within the province of British Columbia, Canada, and held Jalsa Seerat-un-Nabi on 19 January 2021. A comprehensive promotional campaign was launched to let the world know that the Holy Prophetsa was the greatest person in the history of mankind and to unite others in this.

A media release was sent to newspapers, radio, and television stations. Close to 13,000 emails were sent to contacts within the province of British Columbia inviting them to Jalsa Seerat-un-Nabi. A radio advertisement was broadcast for two days immediately prior to the event day, from a very popular local radio station in Vancouver, NEWS1130, with more than a million listeners.

The programme started with a recitation and translation of a portion from the Holy Quran. Sadr Jamaat Abbotsford, Rizwan Peerzada Sahib then introduced the event speakers. Amir Jamaat Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib delivered the welcome remarks. Regional Amir Greater Vancouver Area, Naeem Ahmad Lakhan Sahib moderated the programme.

The first presentation was by a new Ahmadi convert, Mary Lopez De Morelas Sahiba, on “The treatment of women by the Holy Prophetsa”. She was followed by a Shia scholar, Shaykh Saleem Bhimji Sahib of Az-Zuhraa Islamic Centre, Richmond British Columbia.

The final speech of the programme was delivered by missionary, Umair Khan Sahib on “The exemplary teachings & character of the Holy Prophetsa”.

The programme ended with concluding remarks by the moderator.

In an era of information explosion in which mass information, 24-hour news and knowledge of all sorts constantly compete for an individual’s attention, it has become a great challenge to draw an audience. By the grace of Allah, close to 820 viewers watched the live presentation of “The Greatest Person in the History of Mankind, Muhammad – peace and blessing of Allah be upon him” through the YouTube channel and Zoom.

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Continued from page 1

Sahib, Naib Sadr and Mohtamim Tarbiyat, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa asked about the total tajnid and how many khuddam offered Salat in congregation.

Upon being informed of the total tajnid, which is 486, and the number of people who offered Salat in congregation, Huzooraa said that Khuddam should be aware of the importance of prayer and added that the five daily prayers were obligatory upon each and every Muslim.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “Make them realise the importance of Namaz by giving them verses of the Holy Quran, ahadith and passages of the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, and, of course, the directions given to Khuddam by the Khulafa.”

After this, Huzooraa then turned towards the amila members and asked how many of them were regular in offering Namaz in congregation.

Huzooraa said: “If 100% of the amila members are not offering Namaz in congregation, then how can you expect ordinary Khuddam to offer their prayers. Amila members should set an example. Until and unless you set an example, people will not follow your instructions.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa then asked how many members of Khuddam listened to his sermons regularly and then stated: “You should also provide the summary of the khutba [sermon] to those who don’t get time to listen to the full khutba, so at least they can have the summary of it.”

Whilst addressing Mateen Joolfoo Sahib, Mohtamim Talim, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if any book had been prescribed for Khuddam to read during the year. He replied by saying they had recently assigned the books, Way of the Seekers and Ahmadiyyat or the True Islam.

Subsequently, whilst addressing Ahmad Ali Khudurun Sahib, Mohtamim Atfal,

Huzooraa asked how many Aftal were in Mauritius and what plan had been set to ensure Atfal became the best asset for the Jamaat. The mohtamim said the Aftal tajnid was 133 and that they had recently conducted a survey and decided to pay greater emphasis in ensuring Atfal were offering prayers in congregation.

Offering direction, Huzooraa said: “You should make some special programme for this age group because in this age group – when they reach the age of 14-15 – normally they have different preferences and normally, they become lazy with regard to activities of the Jamaat and develop some other interests. So, this is a very crucial time, crucial age, for Atfal.

Keep them close to you […] involve them in Jamaat activities as much as you can.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa enquired from Zaheer u Din Khudurun Sahib, Mohtamim Tabligh, about the bai‘at target for the year, to which he replied by saying they had been assigned a target of 10 bai‘ats for the year.

Hearing this, Huzooraa said, “It should at least be one bai‘at per amila member. Try to set an ambitious target.”

Following this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked Tariq Napual Sahib, Mohtamim Nau Mubai‘een (new converts) about the new converts and what tarbiyat plan was set for them. The mohtamim replied that there were currently 17 new converts and the department held monthly tarbiyat related meetings.

Speaking with Jamsheed Chitamun Sahib, Mohtamim San‘at-o-Tijarat, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa asked about his duties.

The mohtamim said they guided khuddam on how to write CVs and had set up an entrepreneur team to support, advise and guide khuddam who wished to start a business.

Addressing Irfaan Aullybux Sahib, Mohtamim Ishaat, Huzooraa asked if Khuddam had any magazine or organ that was printed regularly, to which he replied

that they had a monthly magazine covering Khuddam activities and various interesting articles.

Turning to Ashfaq Loolmahamode Sahib, Mohtamim Umur-e-Tulaba, Huzooraa enquired about the number of khuddam studying in schools and universities. The mohtamim responded by saying that there were a total of 260 students, out of which 88 were currently studying in schools, 124 in colleges, and 48 in universities.

Whilst addressing Naheed Subratty Sahib, Mohtamim Waqar-e-Amal, Huzooraa asked how many trees were recently planted, to which he was told that approximately 50 trees had been planted in the previous week.

Whilst addressing Ghazi Domun Sahib, Muavin Sadr Waqf-e-Nau, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa enquired how many waqifeen-e-nau there were in Mauritius and the number of those who were currently working. The muavin sadr said there were 280 waqifeen-e-nau and that he did not have the figures of those working but had the details of life devotees.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said, “Every waqif-e-nau is a devotee” and emphasised that he should have all details as it was in this way the waqifeen-e-nau could truly be guided in a better and more organised manner.

Following this, Shameem Jamal Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa for direction with respect to guiding Atfal and Khuddam.

Huzooraa said: “As far as the Atfal are concerned, I have already told mohtamim Atfal that at the age of 14-15, they should give special emphasis on their Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya, as it is a very sensitive age.

“When they enter Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya, they feel that now they are grown up. So, when the boys are at the age of 12 or 13, they are very much attached to Jamaat activities and to Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya and Atfal Ahmadiyya; but, as

they reach the age of 14, then they try to distance themselves sometimes and when they reach 15, then they think they are now grown up and can make their own decisions.

“As soon as they enter Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya, they think now they are fully grown up and when they attain the age of 18, then they think they are now fully matured and now the law permits them to do whatever they like.

“So at this age, you must make a special programme, try to attach them with the Jamaat, try to make some programmes which are of their interest ... you can even ask Atfal and Khuddam through questionnaires, what do they suggest; ‘How can we improve our activities’ and if their suggestions are within the limits and the four walls of the traditions of the Jamaat and the teachings of Islam, then you can make your plans according to that. In this way, you can get quite a number of Khuddam and Atfal involved in your activities.”

Huzooraa further said: “Khuddam should also play some games, not just waste their time wandering the streets or just playing TV and Internet games. They should play outside and play some physical games … there should be a prescribed time for them that this is the time for them to go outside in the grounds and play either football, rugby, cricket, badminton or table tennis.”

Mohtamim Atfal said that the number of Atfal attending the Friday prayer was very low due to schools. Hearing this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “Obviously, when they are in school, they cannot attend Jumuah prayer, but during holidays, they should try to attend Jumuah prayer.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa conveyed his salaam to all amila members and the meeting came to a close.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

4 Continued from page 1

showcasing highlights of the MKA Waqfe-Nau Virtual Retreat 2021, which took place on 27 February.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa then opened the floor for the Waqf-e-Nau students to ask what they wished.

The first question was by Hamaad Muin Ahmad Sahib, a medical student, who wanted to know what medical students could do to ensure they became the best doctors for the Jamaat. In response, Huzooraa said: “A medical student should study – whether Waqf-e-Nau or not. If you do not study, you will not get the degree. That is why – whether a medical student or a student of any other field – you should concentrate on your studies; secondly, pay great attention towards prayers, improve your connection with Allah and offer your five daily prayers at their prescribed times.

“If an atheist studies and works hard, then even if he doesn’t believe in God Almighty, it doesn’t matter; Allah the Almighty will give him the reward for studying. However, an Ahmadi Muslim who claims to believe in Islam, believe in Allah and believe that Allah the Almighty helps them, must, along with their studies, prove they have a connection with Allah too.

“This is why when an Ahmadi couples their hard work with prayers, they will achieve success. Do not think that ‘an atheist has received success, therefore I

will also be successful’; there is a difference between the two and you have to bear in mind this difference; it is a very subtle difference, which you must keep in mind and if you keep it in mind, you will be able to develop a connection with Allah the Almighty and pay attention to studies. As a result, you will be able to achieve your targets.”

Hamaad Sahib’s second question was what specialisation Huzooraa recommended for Waqf-e-Nau doctors to pursue. Huzooraa answered by saying: “We need all types of specialists. So if you are going to Africa, we need general surgeons there. If we send you to Pakistan, Rabwah, then we need cardiologists – interventional cardiologists or simple cardiologists. It depends on various factors, which is why every waqif-e-nau who is becoming a doctor should write back – when they complete their degree – to seek guidance again as to what specialisation they should pursue.

“It is not a general principle – we cannot say that all the waqifeen-e-nau should go into this field or that field. It depends on where there are requirements, what is needed and what each person’s interests are; I guide each person accordingly.”

Huzooraa then asked Hamaad Sahib what his interests were in terms of specialisation, to which he replied that he had an interest in cardiology and ENT but was unsure what to go into. Huzooraa recommended that he pursue cardiology,

to which Hamaad Sahib expressed his gratitude.

Another student, Muhammad Abdul Wasay Sahib, spoke next. As he began asking his question, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa desired to see his face and asked him to remove his mask temporarily so that he could recognise him. With great love and affection, Huzooraa said, “It has been a long time since I have seen your faces”.

Muhammad Abdul Wasay Sahib said he was studying architecture and was in his final year. He wanted to know whether Huzooraa recommended for him to pursue an apprenticeship scheme after his studies.

In response, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “Yes, after completing your education, you should enter an apprenticeship – do an apprenticeship for two to three years, gain experience and then do waqf. If you ask me, come after at least receiving training for three years, after gaining experience and working in a good company so that your vision broadens.”

Muhammad Abdul Wasay Sahib thanked Huzooraa for the guidance.

Next, Mudasar Zafri Sahib asked Huzooraa whether it was necessary for a waqifeen-e-nau to reconfirm their waqf at the age of 15. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa responded by saying: “Yes, it is necessary because if you do not, then how will we know if you want to continue or not?

“There is no force. Your parents dedicated you, but the Jamaat cannot enforce this, that because they did the waqf, you must work for the Jamaat. Here, you are given an option, your mind is now mature – it is an option for you, whether you want to continue your waqf or not.”

Huzooraa highlighted that it was necessary for waqifeen-e-nau to tell the centre if they wished to continue so that the data could be accurate with regard to those continuing their waqf and those who wish to follow other pursuits.

Huzooraa said: “We should not have any kind of deceptive data. If you [a Waqf-e-Nau] do not give us information, then our data will be wrong and we will not be able to plan properly. The Jamaat needs to plan too, right? … If we don’t even know who wants to continue their waqf and who does not, then our planning will be inaccurate.”

Nauman Ahmad Sahib asked Huzooraa if waqifeen-e-zindagi [life devotees] could pursue part-time jobs. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa replied by saying: “If you have done waqf and you are serving as a regular waqif-e-zindagi in the Jamaat, then you will have to seek permission. If you are permitted to work outside, as a part-time employee, you can continue. Otherwise, if you are not permitted to do it, then you cannot.

Normally we do not allow waqifeen-ezindagi to work outside. In certain, special cases, we give permission, but it is not a general principle.”

Nauman Mubarak Sahib asked if waqifeen-e-nau could work in the business sector. Huzooraa replied by explaining that when a waqf conveys their qualifications to the Jamaat and if the Jamaat is not in need

of that qualification for the time being, then permission can be sought from the Jamaat to do one’s own work or set up a business and in such cases, permission is given.

Talking about business, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa emphasised that a business should not be started by taking a large loan from the bank, getting bankrupt by wasting that loan and then spending one’s whole life paying off the debt.

Abdul Bari Mughal Sahib asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa whether a waqif-e-nau, who is studying and also has a responsibility in the Jamaat, should prioritise their studies or Jamaat work.

Huzooraa answered by saying: “If they are studying, or in university, then they should see if they can, along with their studies, do justice to their [Jamaat] responsibility or not. If they cannot do justice to such a responsibility, they should tell the [Jamaat] authorities that at the moment, especially during the exam period, ‘I cannot give my full time as I am going through exams’. Then at such a time, concentrate on your studies.”

Huzooraa said that after exams, on weekends or during any such spare time, one should give time to the Jamaat, instead of wasting it. But for someone to use the excuse that they are not studying due to Jamaat work, is wrong. Huzooraa said to give precedence to studies and to serve the Jamaat in any spare time. However, when studies are finished, a waqif-e-nau should write to the Jamaat and say, “I am ready to serve the Jamaat now.”

Huzooraa said, “Then, without any greed, fulfil your waqf too.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa emphasised that whenever a waqif-e-nau finishes their studies, they should inform the Jamaat and seek further guidance on whether to find work or whether the Jamaat requires them.

Huzooraa said that those waqifeen-enau who are working outside the Jamaat’s system should give more time to serving the Jamaat compared to other Khuddam and Ahmadis, for example, they should help more in Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya etc.

Majid Ahmad Bhatti Sahib said that graduates were currently finding it difficult to find jobs and asked Huzooraa if there were any prayers to secure a job.

In response, Huzooraa said: “Offer your five daily prayers and pray, while in sajda, ‘O Allah, ease things for us’.

Apart from this, there is no other prayer.

The greatest of prayers are the five daily prayers. Allah the Almighty did not say to offer such and such prayer, only then would He accept it. Allah the Almighty has said to offer the five daily prayers, fulfil your obligations and offer your prayers alongside them; [once this has been achieved] then He will accept them.”

Mashood Ahmad Sahib asked what sacrifices waqifeen-e-nau could give to the Jamaat and how one could ensure those sacrifices were accepted.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked Mashood Sahib what he was studying and whether he was born in the UK. Mashood Sahib said he was studying English literature and was born in Oxford, England. Huzooraa then answered his question by saying:

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“Any good deed done for the sake of Allah the Almighty is accepted by Him. Anything you are doing to please Allah the Almighty, for the sake of Allah, He will accept it. Allah even says that ‘if you put a morsel of food in the mouth of your wife, to gain My pleasure, then that will be considered your sacrifice too’ and will please Allah the Almighty. So, Allah’s mercy is to this extent.”

Huzooraa further said: “Whatever you are doing to achieve the love of Allah and for the sake of Allah, [then] Allah will accept it and consider it as your sacrifice for Him.” A question regarding civil service was asked and what Huzooraa had meant when he said waqifeen-e-nau should pursue careers in the civil service.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that it was up to the central Waqf-e-Nau department to explain to waqifeen what civil service meant. Huzooraa said civil service included public service, from the local council level to the prime minister’s secretariat level – all these offices fall under civil service.

Discussing the benefits of civil service, Huzooraa said: “Your exposure with politicians is increased and one is acquainted with the country’s policies. As a result, one can benefit the Jamaat and Ahmadis. A good talented public servant is then kept as an advisor too. Then, for the benefit of the country, acting with absolute justice, he can properly advise his superiors and he can work honestly in the public and carry out justice wherever there is a defect.

“This is why I said public service starts from the council level up to the prime minister’s house level – the secretariat level.”

Aside from this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that while waqifeen-enau could go into the army or police and that it was important to work with lawenforcement agencies, he explained that his advice for Waqf-e-Nau to go into civil service did not mean the army or police etc.; rather, it meant public service, as civil service and public service are the same thing.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then asked about some of the demographics of Waqfe-Nau students who were present.

Huzooraa asked the medical students more about what they wanted to specialise in and addressing engineering students, Huzooraa said to gain a few years’ experience and then write back to the Jamaat to serve.

Hearing one Waqf-e-Nau student, Aqib Javed Rashid Sahib, say he is pursuing a PhD in cyber security, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa remarked, with a smile: “Masha-Allah, this is very good. These days, in Pakistan, the cyber security people are constantly after us.”

Huzooraa said that if Ahmadis watch MTA in Pakistan, the cyber security people come after them; if they browse or use the alislam.org website in any way, the cyber security people immediately arrest them.

Huzooraa said, “If [Ahmadis] mention Allah or His Prophetsa, they are immediately arrested in Pakistan.”

Talking to Aqib Javid Rashid Sahib, with a smile, Huzooraa said: “If you are doing a PhD, then find an antidote to what they are doing too.”

The student responded by saying “Yes, Huzoor; insha-Allah.”

Huzooraa then asked Aqib Javid Sahib more about his work and research. During the discussion, Huzooraa asked about the likelihood for a virus to enter a device even

after a software update.

Aqib Sahib responded by saying that currently, it was very difficult to put a percentage on this chance as there was always room for viruses to enter devices.

He said the current research on this, to his knowledge, was scarce and no one really could predict the possibility of malware and viruses after software updates.

Huzooraa lovingly remarked, “An Ahmadi scholar should solve difficult problems – solve this. Do some research on this and then tell me.”

Aqib Javaid Sahib responded by saying he would definitely do so, God willing.

Before the conclusion of the mulaqat, Daud Ahmad Khan Sahib asked Huzooraa a question. When he stood up, Huzooraa asked him to show his face and commented: “Have you all attended my classes before? You have all grown up and now have beautiful beards, maybe that is why I cannot recognise you all. And it has been a long time too, right? Since a [waqf-enau] class … I was not able to meet you either [due to the widespread pandemic].

I am looking at your faces and you have grown, maybe some have even married.

Anyhow, you all look good masha-Allah, but I cannot recognise your faces – maybe if I look at some childhood pictures of you all, I will recognise you.”

The love and affection Huzooraa has for waqifeen-e-nau becomes manifest from this remark. Since their childhood, Huzooraa has been graciously giving them advice at every step of their upbringing and education. Indeed, this remark by Huzooraa is in need of no further comment but prayers only.

Daud Ahmad Khan Sahib asked whether Waqf-e-Nau students studying live sciences such as physics, chemistry

and biology, should pursue teaching or research.

Huzooraa replied: “We need people in all fields. Ahmadi scholars should go into research too, especially those studying physics. And those studying biology will do biomedical science and then they can go into research.

If a student of biology or chemistry does not get into medicine, then they can go into biomedical sciences. A chemistry student should also go into research.

“And those who cannot do research – not everyone can get into research as each person has their own calibre and talent – then their second preference should be teaching. The first preference should be research and the second, teaching.

“However, from waqifeen-e-nau, we need teachers in every field too. But a certain percentage ...”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said good Ahmadi teachers could also help schools in the UK as, through this, they could display their high morals along with imparting knowledge.

On teaching as a profession, Huzooraa said: “The more Ahmadi teachers teach in schools, the more moral training will take place of the children in those schools – whether those children are Christians, Buddhists, atheists or Ahmadis …

Wherever an Ahmadi [teacher] is, apart from their subject, they will be giving moral training to children too. That is why teaching is a very good profession.”

With this, the meeting came to an end and before conveying salaam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa prayed, “May Allah be the Protector and Helper of everyone.”

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

6

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

Zaheer Ahmad Khan, Head of Records Department, Private Secretariat, London

Plucking, threading, tattoos, artificial diastema and hair In response to a question about ladies plucking or threading their facial hair and having tattoos, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, in a letter dated 2 February 2019, wrote: “There are various reasons why believing women have been forbidden in ahadith from getting tattoos, plucking facial hair, creating artificial gaps between the front teeth to look more beautiful and youthful, wearing artificial hair and altering Allah’s creation etc.

“If these things cause such an artificial change to the natural physical appearance of someone that the distinction between man and woman, which God has placed in human beings, disappears or if there is a danger of inclining towards shirk [association of any partner with Allah] – which is the gravest sin – due to such things, then it is forbidden to do so.

“Moreover, in the ahadith, where these things have been forbidden, the Holy Prophetsa also warned that the Children of Israel perished when their women started doing such things. So, it could be argued that since adultery had spread and brothels had been established among the Jews, women who were involved in such business may have employed such tactics [as outlined in the beginning] to seduce men. Hence, the Holy Prophetsa may have forbidden the believing women from doing such things by highlighting their nefarious aspect.

“Moreover, it is also possible that this instruction of the Holy Prophetsa was temporary, given the circumstances of that

time, just as the Holy Prophetsa prohibited the converts to Islam in a region from the general use of utensils that were also used to produce alcohol. However, once the Islamic teaching was well established among those people, the Holy Prophetsa allowed them to use those utensils.

“Islam declares that actions depend on motives. Therefore, even in this age, if, as a result of these actions, there arises a tendency towards evil or they lead one to disobedience to any clear command of Islam, then they would fall under the actions against which the Holy Prophetsa has warned. An example of

this would be women not taking full care of their purdah or exposing their private parts in front of other women while having their waxing or other treatments etc. done. That is indecency, which is not allowed and perhaps the actions of such women would fall under the same actions against which we have been warned.

“However, there is nothing wrong with a woman taking advantage of these things while observing the Islamic commandment of purdah.”

[Please note that a more comprehensive answer with regard to hair removal and tattooing will be given in the near future – Editor] Performing multiple Umrahs during a single journey Huzooraa was asked whether it was better

to perform multiple Umrahs during one journey or to perform only one Umrah and spend the rest of the time in other acts of worship.

Huzooraa, in a letter dated 2 February 2019, gave the following reply: “It is proven from the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa that he only performed one Umrah during one journey. However, the Holy Prophetsa also did not forbid anywhere from performing more than one Umrahs during a single journey.

Therefore, according to the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa, if a person performs only one Umrah on a journey and spends the rest of their time in other acts of worship, then that would be fine. And if they wish to perform multiple Umrahs, then that would be fine too since Umrah is nothing but [acts of worship like] the tawaf of the

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 House of Allah, the running between Safa and Marwa, various kinds of zikr and nawafil. So, there is nothing wrong with that either.”

Socialising during the iddah period Someone enquired about widows attending Lajna Imaillah events, going to the mosque for congregational prayers and visiting the homes of relatives during the iddah period. The person also suggested that there should be no iddahrelated restriction for older women.

In a letter dated 2 February 2019, Huzooraa provided the following guidance on these matters: “The argument for marrying the same husband after divorce, which you have presented in your letter as a premise in favour of changing the rules around widows’ iddah, is unfounded.”

(The argument of the lady is as follows: According to the Holy Quran, after the completion of the iddah period upon divorce, a woman can only marry the same man if she first marries another man and he divorces her too. However, nowadays, one is allowed to remarry the first husband after divorce even without first marrying another man. Thus, just like this commandment has been changed, there should also be a review of the rulings around the iddah period of widows while taking their age into consideration.)

Huzooraa said: “There was no such ruling before and there has been no change in the actual commandment. You have confused two separate rulings on divorce due to your lack of knowledge.

“Similarly, you are not fully aware of the Islamic teachings regarding the iddah of a widow. Islam commands a woman to mourn the death of her husband for four months and 10 days and does not make any exception to this, nor does it grant any age-related exemption. Therefore, it is incumbent upon a widow to spend this period of iddah in her home as much as possible. She is not allowed to adorn herself, participate in social events or leave the house unnecessarily during that period.

“During the iddah period, a widow may go to her husband’s grave to pray, provided that the grave is in the town where the widow resides. Moreover, if she has to go to the doctor, she would be exempt due to compulsion. Similarly, if a widow’s family’s livelihood depends on her job or she has no other arrangements for taking the children to school and bringing them back or doing the shopping, then all these circumstances would grant her an exemption due to being compelled.

“In such a case, it would be incumbent upon her to go straight to work and return home after completing the work. That is the maximum extent of the permission to leave the house under compulsion and necessity. She is not allowed to participate in any kind of social gatherings or programmes. Therefore, no one is allowed to introduce new things in the Shariah or to create innovations.”

Is one permitted to tell a lie under certain circumstances?

Huzooraa was requested for guidance regarding the ahadith, which seem to allow lying during wars or in order to reconcile quarrelling spouses or other people.

In a letter dated 28 January 2019, Huzooraa gave the following guidance: “In the Holy Quran and authentic َ َ ْ ahadith, lying has been called ‫أكب ُر ا�ْ� َبائِ ِر‬, that is ‘one of the greatest among the grievous of sins’ and the Holy Prophetsa has repeatedly admonished us to stay away from it.

“As far as the narration mentioned in your letter is concerned, one such narration has been recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim and it is narrated by Hazrat Umm Kulthumra bint Aqaba. The words of that narration are cautious and in need of interpretation.

The words of the narration are as follows: َّ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َّ ُ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ ُ ‫اس َویَقول ﺧي ًرا‬ ِ ‫ليﺲ ا��ذاب ال ِذي یص ِ�� ُبين الن‬ ْ َ ‫َوی َ ْن ِمي ﺧي ًرا‬ “One who says and promotes a good word for the sake of reconciliation between people is not a liar.

“An example of this is when a conciliator conveys to one party the good things that have been said by the other party about them and remains silent about what has been said against that party. Such a conciliator cannot be called a liar.

“Sunan al-Tirmidhi has recorded this narration as narrated by Hazrat Asmara bint Yazid in the following words: ُ ُ َ َ ْ ُ َّ ُ ّ َ ُ َ َ َّ ُ َ ْ ُّ َ َ ‫ا�� ُجل ا� َرأتہ ل ِي ْر ِﺿ َي َها‬ ‫اث يح ِدث‬ ٍ ‫لا ي ِحل ا�� ِذب ِإلا فِي ثل‬ َّ َ ْ َ ْ ُ ُ َ ْ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َ ْ َ ‫اس‬ ِ ‫وا�� ِذب فِي الحر ِب وا�� ِذب ل ِيص ِ�� َبين الن‬ ‘It is not lawful to lie except in three cases; something the husband tells his wife to please her, to lie during war and to lie in order to bring peace between people.’

“Firstly, this narration of Sunan alTirmidhi is not acceptable because it contradicts a clear commandment of the Holy Quran and other narrations from among the authentic [sahih] ahadith.

Secondly, Islam has never justified lying on any occasion. On the contrary, it teaches not to abandon the truth even at the expense of one’s life.

“The Promised Messiahas has also guided us in this regard. Hence, while responding to the same allegation raised

by a Christian, Huzooras writes in his book, Nur-ul-Quran No. 2: ‘The Holy Quran considers uttering falsehood akin to idolatry, as Allah the Exalted states: ُّ َ َ ْ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ ّ ُ َ ْ َ ‫ان و‬ ِ‫اﺟت ِن ُبوا ﻗوْ َل الزور‬ ِ ‫فاﺟت ِنبوا الرِﺟﺲ ِمن ال�وث‬ ‘[“Shun therefore the abomination of idols and shun all words of untruth.”] ... The fact of the matter is that no hadith permits lying at all; rather, the following words are found in a hadith: ‫ان قتلت وأحرقت‬ ‘[“(Tell the truth) even if you are killed and set alight.”] ... Moreover, supposing there was a hadith that contradicted the Holy Quran and the authentic ahadith, it would not be deemed worthy of attention because we accept only those ahadith that are not contrary to the authentic ahadith and the Holy Quran.

‘Indeed, in some ahadith, an indication towards the permission of tauriyah can be found. In order to instil hate for this practice, it has been called kizb [falsehood]. When an ignorant and foolish person comes across such a word [i.e. kizb] in a hadith, which has merely been used in order to convey the meaning in a simplified manner, he may take the term kizb in its literal sense. That is because he is unaware of the unequivocal commandment in Islam that falsehood is considered to be an impurity, unlawful and akin to shirk. However, tauriyah, which is not kizb [falsehood] per se but

resembles kizb, has been allowed for the common people upon their being compelled. However, despite this, it is stated that those who even abstain from the use of tauriyah possess greater moral excellence … Nonetheless, despite this, there are many other ahadith from which it becomes evident that tauriyah stands in contrast to a high standard of righteousness and that the clear truth is better, even if one be slain or set alight as a result.’ (Nur-ul-Quran No. 2, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 9, pp. 403-405) “Hence, it is in no way acceptable to believe that lying is allowed in any hadith. Therefore, if there is any way of reconciling these ahadith to bring them in accordance with the Quran and the sunnah, then we will accept these ahadith upon such reconciliation. Otherwise, we will not deem these ahadith worthy of acceptance because they would be against the clear teachings of the Holy Quran and the Messengersa of Allah.”

Visiting mosques and reciting the Holy Quran during menstruation Regarding a lady’s question about menstruating women coming to sit in the mosque or reciting the Holy Quran during menstruation, Huzooraa, in his letter dated 13 March 2019, gave the following instructions: “There has been a difference of opinion regarding these two issues among fuqaha [jurists] and other scholars. Esteemed elders of the faith have also given various responses to this matter based on their understanding of the Quran and the ahadith. Likewise, in terms of Jamaat literature, there are different answers from Khulafa-e-Ahmadiyyat and [therefore] from scholars of the Community.

“In light of the Holy Quran, the ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa and the instructions of the Promised Messiahas, my position regarding the recitation of the Holy Quran by menstruating women is that a woman can repeat the previously memorised portions of the Holy Quran by way of zikr [i.e. remembrance and reflection] in her heart during menstruation. Moreover, she can, if necessary, also hold the Holy Continued on next page >>

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Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

Quran using a clean piece of cloth and can read out a portion of it in order to provide someone with a reference or to teach it to children. However, she cannot recite it as is done in the regular manner.

“Likewise, a woman is not allowed to recite the Holy Quran in the regular manner during menstruation using computers etc. even though she would not be physically holding the Holy Quran.

However, she can read the Holy Quran on computers etc., for instance, to search for a reference or to provide someone with a reference. There is no issue with that.

“During menstruation, a woman can go to the mosque to fetch something or to put something there, but she cannot go and sit there. Had this been permissible, why would the Holy Prophetsa instruct menstruating women who used to participate in Eid [sermon and dua] to stay away from the prayer area? Thus, women are not allowed to sit in the mosque in that condition.

“If a woman comes to the mosque in this state, or a girl comes to the mosque with her mother in such a state, or if someone suddenly starts menstruating, then in all these cases, such women and girls are not allowed to sit in the

prayer areas of the mosque. Instead, arrangements should be made for them to sit in a place where no prayers are offered.”

Duties of Ahmadi mothers and the administration of Lajna Imaillah During a virtual mulaqat of Lajna Imaillah Canada’s national amila with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, held on 16 August 2020, Huzooraa drew the attention of amila members to various aspects of tarbiyat and gave them the following instructions: “Educate mothers to have friendly relationships with their daughters that study here. If mothers are not fully aware of their exposure outside in universities and colleges, then they should be helped by you [the administration of Lajna Imaillah]. However, despite that, they should also continue to have a connection with their daughters.

“On the other hand, educate the girls, that regardless of the education they attain, their pledge of always giving precedence to their faith over worldly matters should be kept in mind. And what is that? It is that they should not just become completely immersed in worldly matters. They should also be made to realise that upon coming here, Allah the Exalted blessed them in worldly terms and the right way to be truly grateful to Him

for those blessings is to become attached to faith as much as possible.

“This issue is mostly also related to boys. Thus, there is a need for tarbiyat by mothers because boys also remain under their mothers’ influence up until the age of 15 or at least up until they are 13 to 14. Then again, there is further need for tarbiyat by mothers because the fathers’ responsibility of doing tarbiyat will also have to be borne by them. This is so because there is a lack of tarbiyat amongst the men.

“I do not say that they have free reign

to do as they please and that only women are to carry out all the responsibilities.

Men also bear responsibility. However, you will also have to take up this challenge in terms of tarbiyat so that you may train the boys who are of a younger age, the age of Atfal, in such a manner that when they become Khuddam, they are attached to the Jamaat. Similarly, when girls come into Lajna from Nasirat, they should be attached to the Jamaat.

“In view of the influence of the environment of this society, where certain matters are taught explicitly and certain questions are raised explicitly, you need to answer their questions openly. The way to do it is this; make a survey and create a questionnaire and send it to every majlis [local chapter]. Tell the girls that they do not have to put their names on it. They should just express whatever questions they may have on their minds regarding religion or the world, or about the difference between the two, or any doubts they may have. Then, try to answer them at the Lajna level in different forums. And send them here to me. We can also produce programmes on them here and can answer them on MTA as well. Then, an MTA studio has also been established there now. You can produce a programme there by coordinating with MTA. The Lajna can make a programme and give answers to those questions without mentioning any names. [You can say] such and such issues are raised in the world nowadays. These are the questions that arise and due to this, the minds of some of our girls are also being polluted, and you can discuss how we can purify them. There are some matters which you can openly discuss on MTA and some which you cannot, which will have to be answered at a personal level. Then, the anonymous questions that you receive can be posted on the Internet by making such a forum where such questions can be answered for tarbiyat. So nowadays, there are very big challenges that the media and other people have thrown down at us in this era in order to create doubts.

“Then, in the name of so-called education, some girls who think that they are highly educated, believe that perhaps Islam’s teachings are very backwards, even though today, there is no other religious teaching compared to the teaching of Islam which is modern and can adjust to the age.”

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

This Week in History 5-11 March In this, the third year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed life of the Promised Messiahas with some more details

5 March 1901: The Promised Messiahas published an ishtihar (announcement) based on a sincere proposal for reconciliation with opponent maulvis.

In the ishtihar, the Promised Messiahas asked of his opponents to refrain from using foul and vile language. (Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 3, p. 179) 5 March 1902: The Promised Messiahas published 2,000 copies of a four-page announcement for the management of the langar khana (public kitchen) and Madrasa Ahmadiyya. This could well be considered the basis for the establishment of the permanent system of chanda (monetary funds for the cause of Islam) and the foundation of monthly chanda. (Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 3, p.

254)

“On the day following Eid, that is Saturday, in the afternoon, an unknown person stabbed Lekh Ram in the stomach with a sharp knife. Stabbed on Saturday, Lekh Ram died on Sunday. The Word of God came true in all its grim details. The prophecy had laid down a six-year limit. Lekh Ram died within six years.

“The prophecy said the fatal event would occur on a day close to the Eid and that this day would prove the Eid of the believers. It happened exactly like this. Lekh Ram was stabbed on the day following the Eid. The prophecy said that Lekh Ram would meet his end at the hands of a fearful red-looking person. That is exactly what happened. Lekh Ram was to be a victim of the sword of Muhammadsa, so he died of a stab wound. The prophecy said that Lekh Ram would meet a fate similar to the fate of the Calf of Samri. This calf was dismembered on a Saturday, burnt to ashes, the ashes dispersed in a river. This is what happened to Lekh Ram. Being a Hindu, he was cremated and his ashes thrown into a river.”

(Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, pp. 357-358) 6 March 1897: On 6 March 1897, the Promised Messiahas published an ishtihar entitled Khuda ki La‘nat aur Kasr-e-Saleeb (God’s curse and the breaking of the cross).

The kitchen of Hazrat Syeda Nusrat Jehan Begumra. This was the first ever langar facility of Jalsa Salana

6 March 1897: Pandit Lekh Ram was killed in accordance with a prophecy of the Promised Messiahas. This incident occurred in the city of Lahore at 7 o’clock in the evening. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 1, p. 590) Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra, further explaining the prophecies alluding to this incident, states: “The prophecies relating to Lekh Ram foretold: (i) that Lekh Ram would meet with a calamity that would prove fatal for him; (ii) that this calamity would take place within six years; (iii) that it would be on a day close to Eid, just before or after; (iv) that Lekh Ram would meet with the fate of the Calf of Samri, that is, dismemberment and death and dispersion of his ashes into a river; (v) that this fatal process would be carried out by a person with ruddy complexion with blood-shot eyes; (vi) that Lekh Ram would be a victim of the sword of Muhammadsa.

“Five years after the publication of these prophecies, however, people started ridiculing the Promised Messiahas. The time limit of the prophecies, they said, was over and nothing had happened! Could Mirza Sahib still be genuine?

But the next Eid-ul-Fitr, which marked the end of Ramadan, occurred on a Friday.

Hazrat Ahmadas stated that it was a unanimous belief of Christians that Jesus was crucified and became accursed for three days and, in their view, the belief of salvation lies completely on this curse.

Huzooras further presented the meanings of la‘nat (curse) from the lexicon in detail and said that the reality of an accursed person is that all his relations with Allah the Almighty are severed.

Such an individual becomes filthy and his heart becomes spiritually dead to the extent that he goes away from Allah and no distinction remains between him and the Satan.

Hazrat Ahmadas then posed a question to priests and enquired as to whether holding this belief was valid and if Jesus was accursed and far from God. (Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, p. 217) 6 March 1908: The Promised Messiahas sent a letter to Hazrat Munshi Abdullah Sanaurira.

(Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 3, p. 341) Many letters between the years of 1884 and 1908 are preserved in history, which were sent by the Promised Messiahas to his faithful companion who had immense love for their Imam.

7 March 1898: The Promised Messiahas published an open letter and mentioned the incident of Maulvi Muhammad Hussain Batalvi being denied the honour of a chair in court as Maulvi Sahib

strongly rejected the occurrence of this incident.

(Majmua-e-Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, p. 418) 8 March 1903: The Promised Messiah’sas Urdu book, Sanatan Dharam (The Sanatan Faith) was released from Zia-ul-Islam Press, Qadian. The Promised Messiahas had just finished writing his book, Nasim-e-Dawat, when the need arose for writing another book, so he penned this work.

In it, Hazrat Ahmadas fully exposed the vulgar act of niyoga (ancient Hindu tradition in which a woman requests and appoints a man to help her conceive a child) and how the Arya Samaj practiced it.

Hazrat Ahmadas then praised the followers of Sanatan Dharam for their courage in rejecting such a vulgar practice. With the exception of a few drawbacks, Huzooras said the followers of Sanatan Dharam were a thousand times better than the Arya Samaj. The Promised Messiahas especially complimented them for not raising absurd and meaningless objections against Islam. Some of them were humble people and they were not as cunning as the Arya Samaj.

These books created a great stir among Arya Samajists and an interest among the followers of Sanatan Dharam. After a few months, both books were translated into English and copies of the English version were distributed free of cost.

9 March 1897: A two-page announcement was published from Zia-ul-Islam Press in which the Promised Messiahas stated that the 25th year of receiving divine revelations had dawned upon him. This phrase indicates that revelations started descending upon him from around 1872. (Majmuae-Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, p. 220) 10 March 1907: The paternal grandson of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mirza Aziz Ahmadra, son of Hazrat Mirza Sultan Ahmad, while studying at Aligarh University, took part in a strike against teachers. The Promised Messiahas was extremely displeased when he heard of it, but eventually forgave his mistake. (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 172) 11 March 1886: The Promised Messiahas was residing in Hoshiarpur when he had a religious debate with Master Murli Dhar, which lasted until 14 March. This debate was later published in the form of a book, Surma Chashm-e-Arya.

Master Murli Dhar was a prominent member of the Arya Samaj in Hoshiarpur. In March 1886, he came to the Promised Messiahas to ask a few questions and raise objections he had about Islam. Huzooras suggested to arrange a sitting in which Master Sahib should present his objections over Islam and Huzooras would respond to those objections.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 1, p. 296)

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Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

Proving the claim of the Promised Messiah’s knowledge of miraculous and profound Arabic Part II Shedding light on the claim of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas with regard to his knowledge of the Arabic language, this series of articles seeks to answer major allegations raised against the Promised Messiah’sas use of Arabic phrases, his God-given eloquence and his command over the language and the usage of sentences taken from past literature.

Muhammad Tahir Nadeem Central Arabic Desk

What was the claim of the Promised Messiahas about his absolute proficiency in God-given knowledge?

In addition to the unique insights and extraordinary pearls of wisdom mentioned in the Arabic books of the Promised Messiahas, the lughaat, idioms of Arabic, literary points, and unique expressions and styles etc. signify that he was blessed with absolute proficiency in Arabic language by God Almighty. The Promised Messiahas said: “How can a person write so many Arabic books, containing insightful pearls of wisdom and knowledge, without absolute proficiency in [Arabic] knowledge?” (Nuzul-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 18, p. 440) The above statement substantiates that the Arabic works of the Promised Messiahas were a reflection of his proficiency in the language of Arabic and to understand the truth about his claim of Arabic eloquence, one must have a deep literary recognition and comprehensive study of vast literature.

What is absolute proficiency in knowledge of Arabic?

Expounding on this matter, the Promised Messiahas said: “A person cannot understand the Arabic idioms and acquire complete knowledge of their sarf wa nahw [morphology and grammar] unless, firstly, one is well-versed in the language of Arabs; secondly, one has gone through all the couplets of pre-Islamic poets; thirdly, one has carefully studied the vast early literature of language, which contains Arabic idioms and has reached the pinnacle of proficiency in [Arabic] knowledge.” (Nuzul-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 18, p. 436) Hence, if we want to understand the said claim of the Promised Messiahas and carry out a research, or if someone is keen on objecting to it, then they have to acquire knowledge of all the above-mentioned

aspects, otherwise such objections will indicate one’s own lack of knowledge.

The knowledge of Arabic lughaat, dialects, usage of different idioms and styles automatically solves the objections that are raised due to a lack of understanding in this field of study.

Complete command over every aspect of the Arabic language is among the miracles of prophets It is quite possible that certain individuals, by their own effort, cover all the stages of the necessary elements mentioned by the Promised Messiahas for the attainment of absolute proficiency in knowledge of Arabic, but it is not in their power to gain complete command over it. This is because absolute command on every aspect of the Arabic language is from among the miracles of prophets.

In this regard, the Promised Messiahas has presented the prophetic words of

Hazrat Imam Shafi‘irh. The Promised Messiahas states: “The lughat of Arabs, which is the real key to sarf wa nahw [morphology and grammar], is a limitless river and Imam Shafi‘i’srh saying in this regard is very accurate: ّ ‫لا یعلمہ الّا‬ ‫نبی‬ “That is, ‘No one can acquire complete knowledge of this language and understand its variety of idioms, save a prophet.’ This statement also proves that it is not in everyone’s power to gain command over every aspect of this language, and grasping it in its entirety is from the miracles of prophets, peace be upon them.” (Nuzul-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 18, p. 437) On the one hand, Hazrat Imam Shafi‘irh said that only a prophet could have full command over Arabic language and on the other hand, after presenting his claim

of prophethood, the Promised Messiahas announced that God had given him the said miracle. Hence, only one person was worthy of achieving complete mastery in Arabic language in this age and that was the Prophet of God, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas.

What was the claim of the Promised Messiahas about the Arabic lughaat?

The Promised Messiahas also presented another extraordinary and unique claim with respect to his knowledge of Arabic.

The Promised Messiahas said: َ ُّ َ ً ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ ْ ّ ُ َّ َ َ ‫علِمت أرب ِع‬ ‫بي ِة‬ ‫ات العر‬ ِ ‫ين ألفا ِمن اللغ‬ “I have been taught 40,000 Arabic lughaat.” (Maktub Ahmad, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 11, p. 234) There is a great need for explanation and clarification of this sentence. It is written in the well-known book of Arabic lexicon, Al-Munjid, that the word, lughat

11

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

is used in every nation to signify popular speech. The word ilm al-lughah is also used to refer to all types of knowledge of Arabic.

The words of the Promised Messiahas, َ ُّ ‫َ ْ َ َ َ ْ ً م َن‬ َّ َ َ ‫ات العربي ِة‬ ِ ‫أرب ِعين ألفا ِ اللغ‬, are mostly translated as “40,000 root words of Arabic,” which is not wrong. However, if we read this sentence in its context, we will come to know that it means a lot more.

Below is the complete statement of the Promised Messiahas: َّ َ ّ ْ ْ َ َ َّ ُ َْ ‫ َمع ِقل ِة ُج ْه ِد ْي َوق ُصو ِر‬،‫ان الع َرب ِ ّي‬ ِ ‫إن كمالِي فِي‬ ِ ‫الل َس‬ َ​َ ْ ٌ ٌ َ َ َ َ ّ َ ْ َ ّ َ َ ‫ ل ُِي‬،‫اضحَة ِمن رب ْي‬ ِ ‫ آيَة َو‬،‫طل ِب ْي‬ ،‫اس عِ ل ِم ْي وأدب ِ ْي‬ ِ ‫ظهر على الن‬ ِ ِ ْ َ ْ َ ُ َ َ َ ّ ُ ‫المخال ِ ِفين؟ َو ِإنِي َمع ذل ِك‬ ‫وع‬ ‫ف َهل ِم ْن ُم َعا ِر‬ ِ ‫ض ف ِ ْي ج ُم‬ ٍ ً َ ُ َ ُّ َ ً ْ َ ْ َ ُ ّ ُ َ َْ ُْ ‫ َوأع ِط ْيت ب َ ْسطة‬،‫ات الع َربِ ّي ِة‬ ِ ‫علِمت أ ْرب َ ِعي َن ألفا ِمن اللغ‬ ُ ُْ ً َ َ َ َ ‫الأدبِ ّية‬ ‫وم‬ ِ ‫كا ِملة ف ِ ْي العل‬ “My distinction in the Arabic language – despite little effort and aspiration on my part – is a clear sign from my Lord, in order to manifest my knowledge and literary ability to people. Thus, is there anyone from among the opponents who can challenge me? Despite little effort, I have been taught 40,000 Arabic lughaat and granted complete knowledge of the literary sciences.” (Maktub Ahmad, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 11, p. 234) If we consider that 40,000 Arabic lughaat mean 40,000 “root words” of Arabic, then this will only allude to a part of the comprehensive knowledge of Arabic

bestowed to the Promised Messiahas. This also indicates that the meaning of 40,000 Arabic lughaat is something else and we need to know more about Arabic lughaat to understand the matter.

What are Arabic lughaat?

These lughaat are different words, alphabets, structures, idioms, styles and the ways of their usage by the Arabs, which were employed in different forms, in different Arab tribes. Sometimes, differences in these lughaat between various Arab tribes would occur by differences in the use of harakaat (diacritics) of certain words and at times, by differences in the sequence of letters of a word. In some cases, a tribe would create new words by adding some letters to the existing form and on other occasions, differences of feminine and masculine forms would give rise to different lughaat.

Sometimes, combining certain letters with similar sounding alphabets would produce different lughaat and in certain instances, using the same word in contrasting meanings would create a new lughat. Moreover, different usages, styles and idioms are part of these lughaat, which were used differently by different tribes for similar situations.

From these Arabic lughaat, the Promised Messiahas was taught 40,000 words, structures, usages, styles and

idioms etc. by Allah the Almighty.

This explanation is also confirmed by the words of the Promised Messiahas, who says: َّ َ ْ ٌ ُ َ َْ َ َ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ‫فاة ِع‬ ‫ات ال ِت ْي هِ َي قط ِع ّية‬ ‫فاعلم أن و‬ ِ ‫يسى ثابِت بِالآي‬ َ َ ْ َّ ّ َ َّ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ ُ َّ َ َ َّ ‫ لِأن القرآن ما استعمل لفظ التوفِي ِإلا ل ِل ِإمات ِة‬،‫الدلال ِة‬ َ ْ ْ ُ َ َ َ ّٰ ُ َ ‫ َو َص َّد َق َذل َِك‬،‫اك‬ ‫الم ْع َنى َرسول الل ِه َوش ِهد َعل ْيه‬ ِ ‫َوال ِإهل‬ َ َ َ َ ُ ُ َ ْ َ َ ّ َ َّ َ ٌ ُ َ ‫ات ق ْو ِم ِه‬ ِ ‫رجل ِمن الصحاب ِة ال ِذي كان أعلم بِلغ‬ “Let it be known that the death of Isa [Jesus] is evident from such verses that are absolute in their meaning, for the Quran has not used the word tawaffi except to signify death and passing away.

The Messengersa of Allah has himself confirmed this meaning; furthermore, the one [Hazrat Abu Bakrra] who was the most knowledgeable amongst the Companionsra in the lughaat of his people, also gave testimony to this meaning.”

(Hamamatul-Bushra, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 7, p. 311) In other words, Hazrat Abu Bakrra had more knowledge of different usages of words, idioms, styles and meanings, and therefore knew that when the word tawaffi was used in that particular situation, it meant nothing but death. Hence, such usages or styles have been called lughaat by the Promised Messiahas.

In order to shed some more light on lughaat, we present some examples from Arabic literature and lexicon.

In the book, Al Muzhir, it is stated: ُّ ُ َ َ َ َ َ ُّ ُ ‫ال الفَ ّر‬ َ ‫ كَانَت العَ َر ُب َت ْح ُض ُر‬:‫اء‬ ‫ وتحج‬،‫ام‬ ‫ق‬ ٍ ‫الم ْو ِس َم فِي ك ِل ع‬ َ​َ َ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ ْ َ ٌ ْ َ ُ َ َّ َ َ ْ َ ‫ فما‬،‫ وقريش يسمعون لغات العر ِب‬،‫اهلِي ِة‬ ِ ‫البيت في الج‬ َّ َ َ ْ َ ُ ْ ُ ِ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ َْ ُ َ َ َ ُ .‫استح َسنوه ِمن لغاتِهِم تكلموا بِ ِه؛ فصاروا أفصح العر ِب‬ “Al-Farra states, ‘The Arabs would gather every year during the days of Hajj and perform the pilgrimage to the Sacred House in the pre-Islamic period.

The Quraish would hear various lughaat [expressions, phrases and dialects] of the visiting Arabs and would adopt those lughaat which they liked. Thus, they became the most eloquent people among the Arabs.” (Al Muzhir, Al-Nau‘ al-Hadi Ashara: Marifatu ar-Radi‘ al-Madhmum min al-Lughaat) The above description shows that the Arabic lughaat refer to different usages and idioms etc. which differed from tribe to tribe. However, since all the Arabs used to gather in Mecca for the pilgrimage, the Quraish listened to the lughaat of all of them and adopted the best idioms and usages of their language. It is for this reason that the Quraish were called Afsahul-Arab (the most eloquent among all the Arabs).

The Arabic lexicon, Lisan al-Arab, states: ُ َ​َ​َ َ ‫ أ َ َر‬،‫آن َعلَى َس ْب َعة أ َ ْح ُرف كُلُّها َشاف كَاف‬ ُ ‫الق ْر‬ ‫اد‬ ‫نزل‬ ٍ ٍ ٍ ِ َ​َ َ َ َ​َ​َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ َ ُّ َْ َ ّ ُ َ ْ ْ ‫ نزل على‬:‫اس‬ ِ ‫بِالحر‬ ِ ‫ف اللغة قال أبو عبي ٍد وأبو العب‬ ُ ُ ْ َ ‫غات الع َر ِب‬ ٍ ‫َس ْب ِع ل‬ ِ ‫غات ِمن ل‬ “The Quran has been revealed according to seven ahruf, each one sufficient and complete. By using the word harf, [the Holy Prophetsa] intended lughah. Abu Ubaid and Abul-Abbas stated, ‘The Quran was revealed according to seven lughaat from among the lughaat of the Arabs.’” (Lisan al-Arab, under the

word, “Harf”) ‫ معنى قول النبي صلى الله‬:‫وقال الحافظ ابن جرير الطبري‬ ‫ إنما هو أنه‬،‫ نزل القرآن على سبعة أحرف‬:‫عليه وسلم‬ ‫نزل بسبع لغات‬ “Al-Hafiz ibn Jarir al-Tabari said, ‘The statement of the Holy Prophetsa that the Quran was revealed in seven ahruf, means that it was revealed in seven lughaat.’”

(Tafsir ibn Jarir, Al-Qaul fi al-Lugha allati Nazala biha al-Quran min lughaat alArab) Here, the seven lughaat do not mean that they were seven completely different languages, but rather seven tribes differed in the usage of some words, phrases and expressions in their distinct dialects. This is the concept of lughaat of the Arabs.

For further explanation of lughaat, the statement of Layth has been cited by the author of Lisan al-Arab. It states: َ َ ُ ُ َ​َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ ُ َ​َ ‫ون أ ْم بِ َم ْع َنى ألف‬ ‫ ويك‬،‫ون أ ْم بِ َمعنى بَل‬ ‫ويك‬ َ َ َ َ َ ْ ْ َ َ َْ َ ٌ َ ْ ٌ ْ ‫حاضر؟ وأنت‬ ِ ‫ أم ِعندك غداء‬:‫هام كق ْول ِك‬ ِ ‫الِاس ِتف‬ ُ ْ ٌ َ َ ٌ َُ ٌ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ ُ ‫غات‬ ِ ‫حاض ٌر؟ َوهِ َي لغة ح َسنة ِمن ل‬ ِ ‫ أ ِعندك غداء‬:‫ت ِريد‬ َ ‫الع َر ِب‬ َ “The article ‘am’ (‫ )أ ْم‬can be used َْ to mean ‘bal’ (‫)بل‬. ‘Am’ can also be used instead of alif-ul-istifham (the interrogative particle); forَ example, you َ ٌ َ َ َ ْ ْ may say ‫اضر‬ ِ ‫[ أم ِعندك غداء ح‬am indaka ghadaa‘un hadir? (Do you have any foodَ َ ٌ َ َ َ َ ْ ready?)], instead of saying ‫اضر‬ ِ ‫أ ِعندك غداء ح‬ [a indaka ghadaa‘un hadir?] This is also the correct use of lughat from among the lughaat of the Arabs.” (Lisan al-Arab, under the word: “Amam”) In the above example, the use of the word am for a different meaning, contrary to its common usage has been considered a separate lughat.

At another place in Lisan Al-Arab, it is stated: ّ ُ َْ َ َ َ َ ُ ‫ َر ِض َي‬- ‫عي ن َ ْف ُس ُه ُح َّج ٌة ل َأنَّ ُه‬ ّ ‫الشا ِف‬ ‫ وقول‬:‫وطه قال‬ ‫الله‬ ِ ِ ّ ّ َ َ ُ َْ َ َ َ ْ ْ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َّ ُ َ ‫الل‬ ‫ وقد اعترض‬:‫ قال‬.‫سان فصيح اللهج ِة‬ ِ ‫ عربي‬- ‫عنه‬ ِ ْ َ​َ ُ ُ َْ َْ َ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ ُ َ َّ َ َ َ ‫علي ِه بعض المتحذل ِقين فخطأه وقد عجل ولم يتثبت ِفيما‬ َ َ ْ ُ َُ َ​َ َ َ ُ َ َ َ ‫وز ل ِلحَض ِر ِّي أ ْن يعجل ِإلى ِإنْكا ِر َما لا ي َ ْع ِرف ُه ِم ْن‬ ‫ ولا يج‬.‫قال‬ ُ َ َ ‫غات العر ِب‬ ِ ‫ل‬ “Taha said: ‘The statement of AlShafi‘ira is in itself a proof, as he was a native Arab and eloquent in speech.’ He (Taha) states, ‘A pedantic person raised an objection against his statement out of haste without ascertaining the accuracy of his own objection. However, a citydweller should not hasten to reject those lughaat of the Arabs which he does not know.’” (Lisan al-Arab, the letter “lam”, under the word: “Aul”) Hence, the above statement also demonstrates that the subject of Arabic lughaat is very vast and it is impossible to get complete command over it with personal effort because all the Arabic lughaat have not been preserved.

Consequently, it is unreasonable to object to a word, idiom or usage etc. without having complete knowledge of that language.

(Research conducted by Muhammad Tahir Nadeem Sahib, Arabic Desk, UK. Translated

by Al Hakam, with special thanks to Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib of the Arabic Desk)

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

12

The blessings of Ahmadiyyat on my parents, Dr Hameed A Khan and Mrs Sajida Mubashira Khan Part I Tayyaba Ahmed Hartlepool

“And who is better in speech than he who invites [men] to Allah and does good works and says, ‘I am surely of those who submit?” (Surah Ha Mim al-Sajdah, Ch.41: V.34) Preface The inspiration and the confidence for writing this article are the words of our most respected and beloved Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper in his Friday Sermon of 1 January 2021: “Thus, every Ahmadi should reflect upon the fact that they have been tasked with a great responsibility. And to complete this task, we must first create an atmosphere of love and brotherhood in our own Ahmadi society and then bring the entire world under this banner, which was raised aloft by the Holy Prophetsa – the banner of the Unity of God. Only then will we be successful in fulfilling the purpose of our bai‘at [pledge of allegiance] and doing justice to it.

“Only after doing this will we become the recipients of the bounties of Allah and only then will we have the right to give and receive the greetings for the New Year.

“May Allah the Almighty enable us to do this and by understanding their responsibilities, may every Ahmadi man, woman, child and elderly pledge that they will use all of their faculties to bring about a transformation in the world this year.

“May Allah the Almighty enable every Ahmadi to fulfil this pledge.” (Friday Sermon delivered on 1 January 2021, published in Al Hakam, 29 January 2021) The blessings of Ahmadiyyat Various aspects of my parents’ love for Khilafat and tabligh (preaching) efforts have been remembered, alhamdulillah, both in the MTA documentary, White Birds of Hartlepool and in writings by my siblings, Abid Khan Sahib and Munavarrah Khan Ghauri Sahiba.

(See URLs below for these documentaries and articles: www.mta.tv/documentaries/whitebirds-hartlepool w w w. p re s s a h m a d i y y a . c o m / other/2020/10/memories-of-my-father www.reviewofreligions.org/23704/ ahmadiyya-muslim-community-originhartlepool-jamaat-part-one www.reviewofreligions.org/23708/ ahmadiyya-muslim-community-origin-

Dr Hameed Khan Sahib with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, 1987

hartlepool-jamaat-part-two) This series of articles intends to shed some light on their personal efforts to follow the call to raise the flag of God’s unity and of the Holy Prophetsa in a small North Eastern town in the UK and how they established a loving community of Ahmadis.

Undoubtedly, my mother, Sajida Mubashira Khan Sahiba, had a passion for tabligh from a young age; in fact, it would not be an exaggeration to say that it was the defining characteristic of her adult life.

In her last days, when she was seriously ill with cancer – the disease having even reached her brain, losing her the ability to speak fluently – she would still muster the words to speak of “God” to the Macmillan nurses that came. Her dedication to her God was literally till her last words.

Labbaik, Allahumma labbaik If I was to describe my father, Dr Hameed Ahmad Khan Sahib, by one noble and pious characteristic that defined him, then undoubtedly it was his love, obedience and attachment to Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya, due, of course, to his love for the Promised Messiahas who was the ardent devotee of our beloved Master, the Holy Prophetsa.

I remember his complete devotion to the advice and instructions of Khilafat and his advice to me that “whatever ‘tahrik’ or new appeal the Khalifa of the time gave, just try and join in immediately.

Don’t worry if you feel you are not able

to complete this endeavour. Leave the future up to Allah the Almighty and join in immediately. ‘Labbaik, Allahumma labbaik.’”

Early years My mother was the daughter of the late Brigadier Muhammad Waqi-uz Zaman Khan Sahib and Qanita Begum Sahiba, the daughter of Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Mughni Sahib of Qadian and Sultan Jahan Begum Sahiba. She was born in Amritsar, India and when she was only two years old, her mother Qanita passed away not long after delivering a baby girl who also soon passed away.

A few years later, her father was fortunate to be remarried to a granddaughter of the Promised Messiahas, Amatul Majeed Maujan Begum Sahiba, daughter of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, and was blessed with a further son and two daughters.

My father was born in Veroval India.

His father was Abdul Majeed Khan Sahib, who, having been a landlord owning vast farmlands in India, migrated to Rabwah with his young family after the partition and was blessed with the service of overseeing the lands of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. My paternal grandmother was Malka Khanum Sahiba, henceforth I shall mention her as Dadi Umma.

The Mother of the Believers (Ummul Momineen) Hazrat Amma Janra

Dadi Umma used to mention an interesting incident of how my father was named Hameed. She would say that after having gone through childbirth, she was delighted and emotional to have a beautiful, healthy baby boy and due to regular, often daily outings that her husband would have with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra as his land caretaker, out of love and respect, she immediately requested him to ask Huzoorra for a name for him.

My grandfather, who was extremely respectful of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihra, responded that he did not think he should bother Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra with such a trivial request. Malka Sahiba was, of course, in her state of weakness, emotional to hear this and she said that she wished so dearly that someone of huge piety would name her son.

There was nothing she could do about the matter, however, so she left it to Allah the Almighty. Dadi Umma would relate that she thought Allah the Almighty took pity on her and fulfilled her desire that her son should be named by a very holy person, as a few days later, a relative of hers visited her and said she was going to request Hazrat Amma Janra, the noble wife of the Promised Messiahas for a name for her own new-born, and if Malka Sahiba wanted, she could also request a name for Malka’s son. “Of course! What a wonderful outcome!” This was how my father was named Hameed, by Hazrat Amma Janra

13

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 herself, alhamdulillah.

When it comes to describing what I know about the early life of both my parents, many incidents were related to me either by themselves or by people close to them. I would like to relate a few that perhaps throw light on their later endeavours and which also show us the endless blessings of Ahmadiyyat.

Student years My father was, masha-Allah, a very hardworking and talented student. He was fortunate to study in the schools and colleges of Rabwah – Talim-ul-Islam High School and College.

In those days, electricity was not available fully in all homes in Rabwah, so my father used to sit outside with a lamp to study in the hot summer evenings.

It is a common sight in Pakistan that any night lights attract moths around them. Some moths would collect on his lamp and some even his face and he would calmly wipe them away from his eyes and continue to study.

Allah blessed his hard work as a young student as when he matriculated (equivalent to passing GCSEs today in the UK), he was third in the whole Punjab Board (out of thousands of students) and later in his FSc exams (equivalent to A levels), he came first, alhamdulillah. Not only this, one subject, maybe biology, had no teacher available for a long period (perhaps a year) and he taught not only himself, but also the whole class who all did exceptionally well that year.

As he was such an outstanding student, his father planned to send him into the civil service, which was considered a good career. However, when advice was sought from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, he was advised to become a doctor and that is what he did.

Having completed his studies at King Edward Medical College Lahore, my father sought permission from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh to continue his training in the USA. He was given permission but for only a year, thereafter moving to the UK where he later became a general practitioner.

He was forever grateful to Allah the Almighty that he was not allowed by Huzoorra to remain and settle in the USA as from 1984, Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya moved to London and my father would not have wished to be anywhere else.

My mother was also a good student, whose love for studying English led her to gain a double master’s degree in English from Lahore College in Pakistan. This love and ability in the English language was later to stand her in good stead when she married and moved to the UK in 1969.

As her mother had passed away, she would share her time by staying with her maternal grandparents in Rabwah and would also spend time with her father and Amatul Majeed Maujan Sahiba, “Ummi”.

Thus, my mother grew up in a strongly religious and, in some ways, quite a scholarly environment – her maternal grandfather, a devout servant of the Jamaat and her knowledge of Urdu literature and poetry stemming from the influence of

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh at Dr Hameed Khan Sahib's wedding

her pure Urdu speaking father who had been born in the Uttar Pradesh area.

Visit of my mother’s college friends to Rabwah My mother had an innate desire for tabligh. She used to mention an incident of her student years when she studied English at Lahore College.

to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Rishta Nata The story of my parent’s rishta (marriage) arrangement is interesting. It was arranged at the behest of Ummi’s mother, Hazrat Sarwar Sultan Begumra (wife of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra), whom my father used to visit as a newly qualified doctor

father’s proposal came, she met Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh, who said, “Yes! This is the kind of rishta that I prayed for you!”

Then he listed qualities such as piety, good family, good education and other traits, all of which my mother would count to us and say belonged to our father. These expressions of gratitude to Allah the Almighty and appreciation of the good attributes of our father, I am sure, were a source of increasing Allah the Almighty’s blessings on her and us, alhamdulillah.

As time passed and my sister and I grew up and were married at a young age, my mother once told me that someone had asked her how the early and suitable marriages of her daughters had been arranged, to which she had replied that this was a gracious blessing of Allah. My mother added that it was her habit that she had always prayed for other people’s daughters that they had blessed rishtas and marriages.

UK beginnings

She invited some of her non-Ahmadi college friends to visit Rabwah. She was hoping to dispel any misconceptions they had about Ahmadiyyat and rumours they may have heard about our centre (markaz).

However, as she arrived, perhaps without forewarning her relatives, she felt that due importance and encouragement was not given to the visit of her friends, until she was able to introduce them to Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh (later Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV), who spoke to them very graciously and as per character, elegantly explained and informed them about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and the importance and role of Rabwah at its centre.

My mother always remembered this incident with love, fondness and gratitude

in Rabwah. Dadi Umma, who was of similar pathan background to her, would visit her regularly and it was to her that Hazrat Sarwar Sultan Begumra made the suggestion that Dr Hameed would be a good match for Sajida.

My mother always used to express her appreciation of the good qualities of my father. Her marriage, as the eldest child of the family and having lost her mother so young, was as important as could be for her family. She told me of an incident which reflected the deep love and concern Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh had for her and for which reason she always believed that his prayers had blessed her marriage.

It so happened that she was considering some proposals of marriage, but when my

My father’s work as a trainee GP was initially in the northern town of North Shields, thereafter moving to Hartlepool.

My parents would relate an early highlight of their marriage, when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh visited the UK in 1970.

My father would, in later years, relate how they excitedly followed Huzoor’srh entourage to the different places that Huzoorrh was visiting. Even though they did not have permission for joining in like this, Huzoorrh was so gracious and kind that this oversight on their part was not even mentioned.

Lesson time “And I was a witness over them as long as I remained among them, but since Thou didst cause me to die, Thou hast been the

Continued on next page >>

14

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

Watcher over them; and Thou art Witness over all things.” (Surah al-Maidah, Ch.5: V.118) By the time I was about 15 months old, Allah graced my parents with a son, Fareed, and as we grew up, my mother turned her attention towards educating us in the best manner she could.

I remember that on our days off from school, we would play outside on our bikes with other children in our neighbourhood, but at a certain time, every day, my mother would call us in, much to our friends’ disappointment, for “lesson time”. This consisted of reading the Holy Quran or Qaedah Yassarnal-Quran, learning hadith off by heart (our target was 20) and knowledge of Ahmadiyyat.

The zeal of my mother’s future propagation of Islam is demonstrated by the fact that by the time I was six or maybe seven and we visited Pakistan, she had taught me the verse of the Holy Quran which proves that Hazrat Jesusas was not alive in Heaven but had passed away like all humans. She would ask me to recite the verse to relatives and they would all be suitably impressed! In later years, my father particularly encouraged and guided us as regards our education.

As a woman, I am particularly grateful that he gave me the confidence to believe that I could academically achieve the highest levels, a blessing of following the teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat, I am sure.

Tabligh begins

Dr Hameed Khan Sahib (left) as a newly qualified doctor

14th regional Ijtema Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Kinshasa Shahid Mehmood Khan Missionary, Congo Kinshasa

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Kinshasa region organised its 14th regional ijtema on 21 February 2021 at Bait-ul-Wahid Mosque Kimbanseke Kinshasa.

Preparations started in the beginning of February. With many Khuddam being new converts, it was essential to explain the importance of an ijtema.

Sadr MKA Congo, Anas Muhammad Musu Sahib held meetings with all the nazimeen to give necessary instructions regarding the organisation of ijtema. To inform and take permission from the state authorities, a letter was written to the councillor of the Kimbanseke council.

The khuddam were served breakfast at 8am on 21 February 2021. The inaugural ceremony started at 9am with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the pledge of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya. The competitions kicked off afterwards. Six academic and three sport events took place during the ijtema.

The Amir and Missionary-in-charge Congo, Khalid Mahmood Shahid Sahib was the chief guest of the ijtema.

This year’s Ijtema saw a participation of 257 Khuddam, of which there were 186 from nine majalis.

May Allah make this ijtema a source of His benedictions for MKA Kinshasa region.

Amin.

“With the help of Allah. He helps whom He pleases”. (Surah al-Rum, Ch.30: V.6) My own earliest memories of my mother’s tabligh efforts are that whenever

Jehovah’s Witnesses would come to our door with a Bible or literature, instead of shying away from them in any way, she would explain the teachings of Islam in detail till they would know that she was not someone to duel with; they were defeated by the logic and reasoning and proofs she gave from Islamic teachings.

Looking back, I believe that these often-weekly sittings with Jehovah’s Witnesses – discussing proofs of the truth of Islam from the Bible – refined and broadened her preaching skills and knowledge.

As I approached my teenage years, she and our Aunty Pam – a nurse who later became the matron of the Coronary Care Unit at the local hospital – had, over some years, become firm friends and regular companions. They began to discuss matters of theology and eventually, both began to study each other’s Holy Book.

I remember them – Aunty Pam sitting on the circular rug in front of the stone fireplace in our sitting room, a cup of coffee beside her, and my mother seated with her, both with their Holy Books open as they discussed various prophecies, verses and explanations.

Some years later, perhaps in 1980/81, after also meeting the illustrious Hazrat Chaudhry Zafrulla Khanra and reading his book Deliverance From the Cross, Aunty Pam accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat, fully convinced that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian was the second coming of Hazrat Jesusas, who had survived the cross and lived for many years thereafter, travelling to find the lost tribes of Israel.

(To be continued…)

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

The exemplary young Companions: Confidentiality in religious matters

Rahmatullah Khan Shakir (1901-2000) Former Assistant Editor and Manager of Al Fazl

Confidentiality of letters Hazrat Abdullahra bin Arqam was a young companion, who would compose letters. The most confidential of letters were kept in his custody. He himself would never read them unnecessarily, let alone informing others of their content. (Mustadrak Hakim, Vol. 3, p.

377, Manaqib Abdullah bin Arqam)

children playing. As he was the same age, he stood by to see them playing. In the meantime, the Holy Prophetsa arrived there.

The children told him about the arrival of the Holy Prophetsa.

Upon arrival, the Prophetsa held Hazrat Anasra by the hand and took him aside and said something into his ear. After that, Hazrat Anasra departed from there, but the Holy Prophetsa sat there in his wait.

Sometime later, Hazrat Anasra returned and apprised him of his reply, after which the Holy Prophetsa departed from there and Hazrat Anasra took to his home.

He was a little late reaching home and so, his mother asked of him the reason for being late. Hazrat Anasra told her that the Holy Prophetsa had sent him for a task, which was why he got late. As he was a child, the mother suspected him for an excuse and pressed him to tell the task the Holy Prophetsa had sent him for. Hazrat Anasra replied that it was a secret, which, regrettably, he could not reveal to her. Not only did the mother not insist him to reveal the secret, rather she advised him not to reveal it to anyone else either. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Faza‘il-usSahabah, Bab min Faza‘ili Anas bin Malik)

A mother’s lesson in secrecy Hazrat Anasra was a servant of the Holy Prophetsa. Despite the fact that he was only eight or 10 years old, he would run the Holy Prophet’ssa errands with utmost secrecy.

Once, after performing the household errands of the Holy Prophetsa, he returned home. On his way home, he saw some

A companion’s repentance on breach of confidentiality At the occasion of the Battle of Banu Quraizah, the Holy Prophetsa ordered a siege of the Jews of Banu Quraizah. The Jews called Hazrat Abu Lababahra into their fort to counsel with him so as to take a decision about their future. As they had old

The incidents presented in the chapter, Religious Indignation for Faith prove that the Companionsra of the Holy Prophetsa would never conceal matters that might otherwise create disorder in faith. Instead of throwing them under the carpet, they themselves would reveal such matters, even if they were pronounced by their closest relatives.

As revealing and conveying such matters to the authorities was necessary, similarly, keeping certain issues confidential, whose revelation may be of some benefit to the enemies, is essential.

This trait can also be witnessed clearly in the lives of the Companionsra. Below are given a few such examples.

friendly relationships with his ancestors, the Jews trusted him and hoped that he would counsel them of something good for them.

As Hazrat Abu Lababahra reached the fort, the Jews, in order to appeal his mercy, brought their wailing wives and children before him. He counseled them to comply with the demands of the Holy Prophetsa, which was in their interest, or else, beckoning to his neck, he gave them a clue that they would be executed. This beckoning was due to his personal assumption because the Jews had committed serious crimes and had breached their contract with the Muslims, and he believed that the punishment for such crimes was only execution.

Though he gave only a gesture to the Jews, but on his return, when he thought over it and realised that this clue of his was against the rule of secrecy and that by giving the clue he had been, to a little extent, dishonest to God and His Prophetsa, he became unnerved. He thought to himself to do something to expiate it. He devised a plan and went straight to the Masjid alNabawi and tied himself against a pillar of the mosque with a strong chain. He thought that unless he was not forgiven and his repentance was not accepted by God, he would remain tied there.

For seven or eight days, he remained tied there. He would untie himself only for prayers and relieving himself of other human needs. Immediately after, his daughter would tie him again at his command.

Out of grief, he stopped eating altogether and due to continuous starvation and

torture, his health was badly affected. He became deaf and his eyesight deteriorated.

Numerous times, he fell unconscious, but he cared nothing at all for his life. What he only cared for was acceptance of his repentance.

Ultimately, God Almighty accepted his repentance and the Holy Prophetsa made its announcement. Companions came to untie him, but he refused and said, “Unless the Holy Prophetsa himself unties me, I shall remain tied here until my death.”

Finally, the Holy Prophetsa came and untied him with his own hands. He was so exultant at this that he announced to serve the Holy Prophetsa for the rest of his life and also announced to donate all his belongings in charity, but the Holy Prophetsa allowed for only one-third of his property. (Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 2, p. 584, Ghazwah Bani Quraizah) Besides the sense of secrecy, there is also a lesson in this account for those who make excuses to avert the penalty after a crime. They not only try to cover their own fault by excuses, rather through fair and unfair means, they try to cover the crimes committed by others as well.

Absolute silence when taking cover After the fall of Mecca, the Holy Prophetsa dispatched a party of 60 men to encounter Banu Maluh; Hazrat Ghalibra bin Abdullah, a young man, being among the party of 60.

At one point, the leader of the party sent him ahead to observe the movement of the enemy.

Once he neared their settlement, he lay down on his belly on top of a high mound to observe the movements of the enemy. In the meantime, somebody, whose house was close to the mound, emerged from his house accompanied by his wife.

As he looked upwards, he noticed a shadow. He told his wife that he had noticed a shadow on the mound, probably of a man, or maybe a dog perhaps, who had taken something edible or a vessel from their house and sat over there. He asked her to go inside and see if anything was missing. She went inside and looked carefully and assured him that nothing was found missing.

At this, he was assured that it must be a man and asked his wife to bring his bow and arrow to shoot the man. He shot two arrows at him, one of which hit him pierced his side and the other, the shoulder.

Bravo for the young companion who received two arrows, piercing tender parts of his body, yet he remained silent! Let alone move his body, he did not even utter a sigh of pain, lest the enemy became vigilant and the secret of the Muslims was revealed. To see no movement, the enemy dismissed it considering it to be a hallucination.

It was impossible for a man to receive two shots of arrows and make no movement.

Thus, after his complete satisfaction, he departed from there. Once he had departed, only then did Hazrat Ghalibra removed the arrows from his body. (Sirat Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 610, Saryah Banu Maluh) The confidant of the Prophetsa – Hazrat Huzayfara The Holy Prophetsa had confided the names of the hypocrites to Hazrat Huzayfara; that is why he was called a confidant of the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa had not Continued on page 18

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

16

15 World Religions Mufti Sahib’s diary o Conference held by Sahib’s depart Ahmadis in Canada Al Fazl, 7 M th

Syed Mukarram Nazeer, Canada Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya British Columbia has been hosting the “World Religions Conference” in the city of Victoria since 2006.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located on the southern end of Vancouver Island. Victoria is known for its abundant parkland and outdoor activities. Its British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including the stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion and Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, water features and a carousel – one of many formal gardens in the city. Victoria is located approximately 100 kilometres south of the Baitur Rahman mosque, Vancouver.

In 2006, the first World Religions Conference, Victoria was held at the University of Victoria, with 310 participants.

On 2 February 2021, the 15th World Religions Conference was held virtually. The Chief of Cheam First Nation, Mr Andrew Victor acted as the moderator of the event.

The event started at 6 pm with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by welcome remarks presented by regional co-ordinator outreach British Columbia, Rizwan Peerzada Sahib.

A missionary, Umair Khan Sahib delivered a presentation on the topic of “Religion in the time of adversity: Help or hindrance”.

The following represented their faiths and delivered speeches: 1. Hinduism – Mr Vinod Bhardwaj 2. Catholicism – Bishop Gary Gordon 3. Sikhism – Mr Gurdeep Singh 4. Judaism – Rabbi Louis Setker 5. Bahai Faith – Mr Don Brown 6. The Church of Jesus Christ and Latter Day Saints – Mr John Barrows 7. Metaphysical - Dr Anneli Driessen 8. Islam – Mr Umair Khan Many dignitaries of Victoria, including councillor Sandy Blue of the City of

100 Ye

Abbotsford, joined the conference. The Jamaat was appreciated for organising this event. Over 453 individual connections were made throughout the programme with a projected audience of over 900.

The goals and objectives of the conference included: 1. To explore teachings and practices of different religious and philosophical traditions, with the hope that such mutual exploration will encourage better understanding and promote harmonious co-existence among members of Canada’s cultural mosaic 2. To shorten the gap between diverse communities and to demonstrate that we can live together in spirit of acceptance, harmony and compassion 3. To promote interfaith respect, harmony, inclusiveness and diversity by inculcating mutual understanding and respect between different faith traditions and philosophies of world 4. To promote respect, harmony and cohesion among all people Khuddam and Lajna of Abbotsford and Victoria jamaats assisted with online promotion. Multiple teams were organised with different tasks – these teams started promoting the conference one month in advance. The print media campaign had 72,277 impressions, while the radio campaign reached 75,000 listeners on the local radio station.

Some feedback from attendees is as follows: Mr Trevor William said: “It was nice to hear about different religions virtually; however, we miss being under one roof and delicious [South] Indian dinner. The hard work of everyone was obvious. Thank you for organising.”

Mr Sarbjit Singh said: “We really enjoyed the unique conference virtually. I like the idea that it is unique to gather all faiths and hear positive sides of the picture.”

A priest resigns from priesthood Mr Miller, a well-known priest of a church in New York located on East 50th Street, has resigned from his post because he was fed up with the current and established Christian beliefs. His statements have been published in the newspapers. He says: 1. The concept of Jesus’ divinity is wrong 2. There is no proof of his fatherless birth 3. The Bible is not free from error 4. Some Christian doctrines are simply baseless and fabricated 5. The war proved that Christianity has failed We have sent relevant literature and satisfactory letters to the said priest.

Treatment of tuberculosis After much experimentation, Dr Mattel Nico has announced that the butterfly has a substance in its body that can kill the germs of tuberculosis. Hence, he is preparing a serum that will be used to treat [tuberculosis].

Compelled to be “Hazrat” I have a friend named Syed Muhammad Mohsin Sahib in Cuttack. When he was a student, he came to Qadian and took some lessons of translation of the Holy Quran from me and since that time, he holds me very dear to him. From time to time, he provides support through donations as much as he can.

He sent me seven shillings through a money order to express his admiration, which were received here as slightly above one dollar after conversion. He wrote my name as “Hazrat” Mufti Muhammad Sadiq on the money order. When I received it, I signed it as Muhammad Sadiq. The postmaster said that he could not give the money order unless I wrote the words “Hazrat” and “Mufti” in my signature. On this, I had to add “Hazrat Mufti” to my name to receive the money.

The people of foreign countries do not recognise the actual meanings of the words of another language. Everyone is known here by the last part of their name. People call me Mr Sadiq, Prof Sadiq or Dr Sadiq.

Those who are more frank with me, call me Mr Mufti or just Mufti.

The lady from the White Island in whose house I used to live, wrote, “As I cannot memorise such a long name, I will call you Mr Muhammad.” Everyone on this island knows me by the name of Mr Muhammad.

Even now, “Dear Mr Muhammad” is written on the letters that are sent from that place.

Weather On 1 January 1921, sunrise took place at 7:28 am and sunset was at 4:39 pm. The length of day is 9 hours and 11 minutes, and night spans 12 hours and 49 minutes.

The current months are the coldest in this country. Temperatures sometimes drop several degrees below zero, but this year has not been as cold as it used to be in the past.

People say that in the last 40 years, they have never seen January as pleasant as it is this year in Chicago. I say that this is the grace of God on this humble one because I am not used to cold weather.

Just as there is severe cold weather over here, so are the extreme measures to protect from this cold. There is a fire place in the basement of each house and its ducts run through all the walls of the house into all the rooms which keep the whole house warm. Electric or gas heating is provided in trains and trams. All shops have reasonable heating systems. Hot and cold water is present in washrooms of every house all the time. Almost every house is powered by electricity. During daytime, electricity is used to light up most of the houses and offices.

Thank you, friends I have come to know by reading the Al Fazl newspaper that my friends are responding very generously to my proposed magazine.

May Allah the Almighty grant the best of reward to everyone. There is also a need of subscribers. Annual subscription costs will be at six rupees per magazine. Friends should pay the cost of the magazine and benefit people of this country by their subscription. These contributions should be immediately sent in advance through the department of Talif-o-Ishaat, Qadian […]

Gambling I am praise personified for that Holy who conveyed the Messenger[sa] commandments of Allah to his people in such effective words that all shortcomings were removed in an instant. According to a newspaper, gamblers lost seven billion rupees in a year in the central country of Christian civilisation, the United States. The wise men of the country are worried as to how they can get rid of this evil from their country.

The cure is very simple; persuade everyone to accept Islam and gambling will disappear automatically. I hope they soon understand this point.

Lectures Nowadays, two lectures are being held every Sunday. One of them is delivered in the Church of Love and the other is held in our own lecture room. After the last lecture, a gentleman stood up and said, “There was a time when we considered the people of the East to be uneducated and used to send our missionaries over there, but now we have come to know that we are spiritually blind and the East has sent a missionary for our

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

Years Ago...

of the US and Nayyar ture for Africa

March 1921 education.”

Acknowledgement of the lecture The subject of my speech was the life of the Holy Prophetsa. A lady named Miss Hunt, who is the poet laureate of Aurora city and has authored several books, gave a short speech after the lecture. She said, “I agree with every word of this speech. Surely, it is great narrow-mindedness of Christians that they did not pay heed to the attributes of the founder of Islam.”

Robbery Incidents of theft and robbery during Christmas had increased so much that there were 40 cases every day in the city of Chicago alone.

Although the number of such incidents has declined now, 10 to 15 cases still occur on a daily basis. Banks are robbed, items are stolen from homes and people are mugged in the streets. The reason behind these incidents is said to be unemployment.

Observers opine that boys wanted to give presents to their partners on Christmas

day and due to a lack of money, they started stealing and robbing. May Allah the Almighty safeguard us [from such incidents].

A priest A young Indian named Abdul Wadood called me to his house. When I went there, by chance, a priest named Lucas was also present at his place.

During our discussion, the priest said, “Jesus has told us to worship him and this is proof that he was God.” I said to him, “Alright, if you can show me the reference of this saying of Jesus from the four Gospels, I will give you a reward of 20 dollars.”

The priest immediately got up and brought the Gospels. He kept turning the pages, one after the other, for some time and finally said, “I cannot find it right now, but I will show you some other time perhaps.”

I replied, “Sure, show me at another time.”

It has been two weeks, but he still hasn’t showed up.

Never-before-seen photo: Chief Oluwa of Lagos, Nigeria with Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra at Melrose Road, London

A claimant of prophethood In a lecture on 16 January 1921, a gentleman named Mr Purdle appeared. My speech was on the subject of revelation and prophethood. After the speech, the said person stood up and presented his claim before the gathering. After a few questions and answers, it was decided that next Sunday, Mr Purdle would present his claim of prophethood and I would present proof of [the claims of] the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas. The audience will decide by themselves as to who deserves to be believed in. Hopefully, people will listen to this debate with great interest. ْ ْ ّ ٰ َّ َ ��ْ ‫َو َما ت ۡو ِف ۡي ِق ْیٓ اِلا بِالله ال َعلِ ِ ّی ال َع ِظ‬ “There is no power in us save through Allah, the Most High and the Great.”

Humbly yours, Muhammad Sadiq, 17 January 1921 4334 Ellis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Nayyar’s letter Departure from England I finally left London for Nigeria at 10 o’clock this morning. Then, I boarded a ship called Abinsi from the port of Liverpool, which links with America and West Africa. Now, I am on the way to my destination.

After the train arrived in Liverpool, I immediately boarded the ship. Maulvi Mubarak Ali Sahib, Babu Azizuddin Sahib and Chaudhry Maula Bakhsh Sahib came with me to the station in London. Apart from them, two newly converted British women also came to see me off. May Allah the Almighty grant the best of rewards to everyone.

They bade me farewell with great warmth and love. The new converts of England have expressed great sincerity and affection towards me and I am much obliged.

Hazrat Abdur Rahim Nayyarra listed among passengers boarding the Abinsi ship for West Africa

Every matter is cheerful The farewell on my departure from London and the inaugural jalsa of the new house [markaz] was a great success. The Daily Mirror, The Daily Graphic, The Times, The Morning Post and many other newspapers published its proceedings. The Daily Mirror

has published a photograph of this humble one and Chief Oluwa of Lagos, while we were shaking hands [as seen in the picture given on this page]. Ahmadi missionaries, Mr Augusto Chief of Lagos, Dr Arnold, author of the book, The Preaching of Islam, and Dr Leon are also present in this photograph. Hence, the union of the three countries, namely England, Nigeria and India, is a good omen that came about by the efforts of Ahmadiyyat.

I have every comfort on the ship and thus far, I have not experienced seasickness.

While I am on the ship, I have had the special opportunity to pray for friends, families of Khulafa of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Amirul Momineen[ra] and the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, alhamdulillah!

Tabligh has started Some Nigerian Christians were aboard the train. I had the opportunity to convey the message of truth to them. An honourable sheikh of Tripoli is onboard the ship, along with his family. I met him and also had a little conversation with him. I will certainly get another opportunity to carry out tabligh to him, insha-Allah!

Request for prayers and postal address I request all the friends who are associated with me by any means and who are yearning to spread the message of Ahmadiyya Jamaat, to pray for me that Allah the Almighty keeps me in good health and grants me the strength to convey the truth without any fear of reproach by a fault-finder. My current postal address is as follows: “Ahmadi Missioner, West Africa, c/o Post Master, Salt Pond, Gold Coast” The more my friends will inform me of their well-being and situation of the homeland, the more I will be happy and motivated to pray. That is all.

Diploma I wrote a paper on Persian and Sanskrit being of the same origin. On the basis of that [paper], the Société [Internationale] de Philologie has given me a diploma of Phil B. Prayer seeker, Humbly yours, Nayyar, 9 February 1921 (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 7 March 1921 issue of Al Fazl)

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

18 Continued from page 15

allowed him to disclose the secret and he never disclosed the names to anyone.

Once, Hazrat Umarra asked him to tell if there were any hypocrites among his revenue collectors so as to protect Islam against his mischief. He replied, “Actually, there is one, but regrettably, I cannot disclose his name, lest I commit the crime of disclosing the secret of the Holy Prophetsa.”

(Usdul-Ghabah, Vol. 1, p.468, Huzayfa bin Yaman) Meticulous assistance of the Prophetsa and Abu Bakrra to flee Mecca Hazrat Abu Bakrra directed his son, Hazrat Abdullahra, to keep a watchful eye on the movements of the Quraish after the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra set off from Mecca to immigrate to Medina. Daily, in the evening, he was supposed to report to them in the Cave Thawr. He complied with this command with utmost secrecy.

As night started to fall, he would reach the Cave Thawr, stay there for the whole night and return before the early morning.

Similarly, Hazrat Abu Bakr’sra servant, Amir bin Fuherah, was tasked to graze goats all day and deliver their milk at night in the cave. He, too, complied with it with extreme secrecy, and nobody had even the faintest idea of it.

This arrangement was followed for three days regularly, with extreme secrecy, so much so that the Quraish, who roamed throughout the region in mad pursuit of the Holy Prophetsa, failed to learn anything about it. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ulManaqibil-Ansar, Bab Hijratun-Nabiy wa Ashabihi ilal-Medina) (Translated by Shahid Mahmood Ahmad, Missionary in Ghana, from the original Urdu, Muslim Nau-jawanon kay Sunehri Karnamey)

Ahmadis in Kenya convey Islamic teachings in Mumias sub-county interfaith meeting

Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

On 22 February 2021, the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat reached many people who had congregated for an interfaith meeting hosted by ACK Church, Lubinu Parish in Mumias east sub-county, Kenya.

44 people attended and our Jamaat was represented by two members, Asman Akhonya Sahib, Sadr Jamaat Shianda and a

muallim, Muhammad Maulid Sahib.

The meeting was sponsored by the charity, USAID, with the aim of formulating policies of childcare through religious teachings and finding out what religious leaders are doing in their part to protect children from sexual harassment, negligence and child labour.

Sadr Jamaat Shianda appreciated the opportunity given to religious leaders to give direction to an ever-worsening

situation of modern society and the treatment of children, the leaders of tomorrow.

On his part, the muallim, Muhammad Maulid Sahib focused on the parents for negligence of their roles in proper upbringing of their children by giving false excuses in the name of freedom and change in societal roles. He admonished church leaders who kept quiet while their own congregants did as they wished, putting on clothes with no decency, despite being in the churches. He informed all attendees that the solution they were yearning for was in accepting the Promised Messiahas, who was prophesied in their holy books to come. He said that Jesusas had already metaphorically come in the person of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian and he had founded a community by the name of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, with one Imam that spreads love and a message of peace to the whole world.

In the end, all attendees were given the Jamaat’s literature including the book, World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace.

Some of the attendees were amazed and appreciated the message they received, saying they had never heard such a good message from Muslims before.

May the message of the Promised Messiahas spread in this region and everywhere else and may the world come to accept the Imam of the age. Amin.

Kenyan Ahmadis lay new mosque’s foundation in Eldoro Jamaat

Tahir Ahmad Machengo Kenya Correspondent

Amir and Missionary-in-charge Kenya, Tariq Mahmood Zafar Sahib visited Eldoro Jamaat in Taveta region of Kenya on 21 February 2021, for laying the foundation of a new mosque.

There was a need for a larger mosque as Ahmadi members have increased in the area. The first brick was laid by Amir Sahib and then regional missionaries,

presidents of local Jamaats, office-bearers of Majlis Ansarullah, Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya and Atfal, after which members of the Eldoro, Kitobo and Kitoghoto Jamaats followed suit.

This was a great achievement because it is exactly 50 years after the first mosque ever was built in the area, in 1971, when pioneer Ahmadis constructed the mosque through waqar-e-amal.

Since then, it has served as a source of tarbiyat not only for the then pioneer Ahmadi Muslims but for the present generation as well and has become a means of tabligh in the area.

The stone laying ceremony started and ended with dua, led by Amir Sahib.

May Allah bless the contributions of members of the Jamaat, make their efforts fruitful, accept their sacrifices, bless their children and future generations and instil in them the spirit of true sacrifices towards the progress of the Jamaat. Amin.

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s “American dream”

Qasim Choudhary Missionary USA

In 1920, as Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra sailed towards the land of opportunity, he did so not to secure any white picket fence house or material gain; rather, he had his sights set on a golden opportunity in the field of preaching the pristine teachings of Islam.

The purpose of his journey was to procure and prepare pure hearts to join the fold of Islam Ahmadiyyat. Upon his arrival in Philadelphia, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra was immediately detained and spent the following two months in detention. However, this obstacle in no way deterred him from fulfilling his ultimate mission; a mission he completed in the most exemplary and noble manner.

A century later, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa graciously appointed me and four of my classmates to serve in the United States of America.

Although there is no comparison, today the global pandemic has forcibly detained us in Canada rendering the “American dream” inaccessible.

As I remain in the confines of my home, I ponder over what the “American dream” truly means for an American Ahmadi.

Do American Ahmadis go to bed with the prospect of individual wealth and prosperity as their foremost goal? Is this an acceptable aspiration or are we simply

not dreaming big enough?

For this purpose, we can turn to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra who held an ambitious and grandiose future for the American Jamaat. It is said that dreams are the touchstones of our character.

The American dream that he envisioned for the American Jamaat is telling of the genius that is Musleh-e-Maudra.

Let us now voyage through his American dream to better understand what he expected of us.

Four trillion American dollars Missionary, Khalil Ahmad Nasir Sahib informed Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra that

amount, I regard it as next to nothing; rather, I desire that the missionaries there report that the annual chanda collection is not 40 thousand dollars, not four million, not 400 million, not 40 billion, but the annual chanda collection should be four trillion dollars. Only then will we consider that America has an affinity with Islam.” (Friday Sermon, 20 January 1956, Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 37, pp. 23-24) The vision Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra envisioned an ambitious and bright future for the American Jamaat. He expressed this desire in the following words:

“Today, America is seeking 200 missionaries, but tomorrow they will not seek 200; rather they will require 2,000 missionaries. The day after, they will not ask for 2,000, but they will ask for 200,000 missionaries. The day after that, they will not ask for 200,000 missionaries; rather they will ask for 20 million missionaries and the preparation of 20 million missionaries will require 200 years.” the annual collection of financial sacrifices was 40 thousand American dollars. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra responded: “Although this is a considerable

“The day America constructs hundreds of thousands of mosques; the day when hundreds of thousands will call the azan from the minarets; the day when imams

numbering hundreds of thousands lead the five daily prayers in mosques, will be the day when we consider that America has progressed.” (Friday Sermon, 20 January 1956, Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 37, p. 24) 20 million missionaries A college student from America once wrote to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra expressing his worry due to the lack of missionaries. At the time, eight missionaries were serving in America and two of them were set to return to Pakistan. The student explained that even 200 missionaries would be insufficient for covering the vast nation of America. (Friday Sermon, 20 January 1956, Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 37, p. 22) Furthermore, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra, commenting on this need, stated: “Today, America is seeking 200 missionaries, but tomorrow they will not seek 200; rather they will require 2,000 missionaries. The day after, they will not ask for 2,000, but they will ask for 200,000 missionaries. The day after that, they will not ask for 200,000 missionaries; rather they will ask for 20 million missionaries and the preparation of 20 million missionaries will require 200 years.” (Friday Sermon, 20 January 1956, Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 37, p. 28) To achieve this seemingly impossible number, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra explained that we would ultimately need to adopt the method of the Companionsra of the Holy Prophetsa.

In the time of the Prophetsa, the Companionsra did not pass through any formal institution of Islamic theology.

Observe Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra who recited the kalimah and immediately became missionaries.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra advised Jamaat members to adopt this zeal and to study the books of the Promised Messiahas: “If you study them with deliberation, within a few days, you will become a missionary of such stature that renowned scholars will be unable to compete against you.” (Ibid) Voyaging through Hazrat Musleh-eMaud’sra American dream, one may deem his aspirations as an unattainable feat.

The numbers and expectations appear daunting and frightening. However, this was the magnificent demeanour of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra as is reflected beautifully in his poetic couplets: ‫ی‬ ‫م اےنپ پ ی�اروں یک تبسن رہ زگ ہن رکوں اگ دنسپ نیھبک‬ ‫�� چ�ی‬ ‫وہ وھچےٹ درہج ہپ رایض وہں اور اُن یک اگنہ رےہ ی‬ “I can never, for my beloved ones, tolerate that they be content in mediocrity and their eyes of aspiration remain fixed to the ground.” (Kalam-e-Mahmud, p. 142 [2002 edition]) May Allah bring into fruition the dream of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in our time and may we all render true zeal and service to the Jamaat as Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra envisioned in the following words: “When America presents its heart and soul to the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, then will we consider that America has accepted Islam.” (Friday Sermon, 20 January 1956, Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 37, p. 24)

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Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s services to the Muslim cause Guidance and support to leaders of the Pakistan Movement

A group photo taken near the Khyber Pass (Torkham) of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra and Jamaat members from Peshawar in 1948

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra provided valuable guidance and support to the leaders of the Pakistan Movement and played a pivotal role at many crucial junctures. This article aims to present a few glimpses of those services.

Separate electorates The Muslims of the Indian subcontinent presented many demands from time to time and all of them had their own importance, but the demand for separate electorates was a special one. The reason for this is that in India at the time, it was inevitable for protecting the rights of the Muslims. Consequently, the right for separate electorates played a pivotal role

in the formation of Pakistan.

On 20 March 1927, Muslim leaders had a meeting in Delhi – presided by Jinnah – to discuss the basic demands of Muslims, including the separate electorates. They agreed to compromise the demand for separate electorates in an effort to break the ice and decided to offer Hindus the withdrawal of this demand, provided all other demands were accepted. (Quaide-Azam Aur Unka Ehad – Hayat-eMuhammad Ali Jinnah, by Raees Ahmad Jafri, p. 162) These proposals are commonly known as “The Delhi Proposals”.

Considering the greater interest of the Muslims, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra raised his voice for separate electorates.

On 7 September 1927, during the second session of the Ittehad Conference

in Simla, he suggested: “Although the idea of joint electorates is correct principally, but not during the current circumstances of India and in our view, it is dangerous for the Muslim interest. Anyway, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, Muslims of Punjab and Muslims of some other provinces are not ready to accept the joint electorates for now. So, it is our demand that the right for separate electorates should continue for the Muslims and other parties also, if they like it, should get this right.” (Zamima Al Fazl, 16 September 1927) In Simla, Huzoorra had a conversation with Jinnah on this issue. Jinnah stated that nationalism (qaumiyyat) could only be inculcated through joint electorates.

Huzoorra responded that although he agreed that joint electorates were

necessary for nationalism, but considering the circumstances at the time, when the Muslims were weaker and unable to cope with the power and deceits of Hindus, separate electorates were the need of the time. But Jinnah did not agree. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 4, pp. 619-620) Then, during a meeting of the Muslim leaders, chaired by Jinnah, Huzoorra delivered a speech in favour of separate electorates and most of the speakers agreed with Huzoor’sra views and spoke in favour of separate electorates. Jinnah, after delivering his concluding speech, stated that now he knew that the majority of the nation favoured separate electorates and when the decisive time would come, he would cater for their views. (Ibid) Uniting the All-India Muslim League

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 The All-India Muslim League had divided into two groups over the issues of the Delhi Proposals and boycotting the Simon Commission. One group was led by MA Jinnah, while the second was led by Sir Muhammad Shafi.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra wrote letters to Dr Muhammad Iqbal (Secretary Shafi League) and Jinnah, wishing to see both groups united.

In March 1929, Sir Muhammad Shafi and Muhammad Ali Jinnah had a meeting, in which Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra was also present. Both leaders agreed to unite and the Muslim League’s session was called on 28-30 March in Delhi; Huzoorra was also invited.

Huzoorra could not attend himself but sent Hazrat Mufti Sahibra. Sir Shafi also could not attend due to illness.

Then, on 28 February 1930, an important session of Muslim League Council was held in Delhi, chaired by Jinnah. It was announced there that both groups of the League were now united.

Jinnah’s return to Indian politics Quaid-e-Azam was striving hard for the Indian Muslims, but when he suffered disappointment on the part of Indian politics, he moved to England and decided to settle there. In that situation, Huzoorra wished to bring him back to India to continue the struggle, so he instructed Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dardra to persuade Jinnah to return.

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dardra had meetings with Jinnah and tried to convince him. Upon Dard Sahib’s invitation, Jinnah attended an event on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha at the Fazl Mosque in London, in April 1933. Jinnah delivered a speech on the future of India and began his speech in these words: “The eloquent persuasion of the Imam [Dard Sahibra] left me no escape.”

This speech attracted many newspapers of the British and Indian press, including The Statesman, Madras Mail, Hindu, The Sunday Times, etc.

While mentioning this turnaround, Pakistan Times stated that Liaquat Ali Khan and Maulana Abdur Rahim Dardra persuaded Jinnah to change his mind and return home to play his role in the national politics. Consequently, Mr Jinnah returned to India in 1934 and was elected to the Central Assembly, unopposed. (Pakistan Times, 11 September 1981, Supplement II, Column 1)

In the beginning of October 1945,

them whatever means of co-operation and assistance you can possibly afford.

Muslims do require a united front in the present crisis. Their differences, if allowed to exist, will affect them adversely for hundreds of years to come.”

Nazir umur-e-ama Qadian sent Huzoor’sra above-mentioned correspondence to Jinnah and it had so much importance in the view of Jinnah that he got this published in the Dawn newspaper of Delhi on 8 October 1945, titled “Ahmadiya Community To Support Muslim League – Qadian Leader’s Guidance”.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote an article, titled “Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya’s Policy Regarding the Upcoming Elections”, on 21 October 1945. He narrated his views about the future of India, in light of both demands – the partition of India and United India. After elaborating the whole situation, he stated: “I have come to the conclusion that during the upcoming elections, every Ahmadi should support the policy of the Muslim League, so that after the elections, the Muslim League can say to the Congress without any fear of denial that it is representative of the Muslims. If we and other Jamaats will not do so, then the political stature of the Muslims will weaken, and in the upcoming system of India, their voice will prove ineffective. And it

in their respective areas with full force and power, in such a way that all votes of Ahmadis should be cast to the Muslim League’s contestant of the constituency.”

(Al Fazl, 22 October 1945, p. 3) While mentioning Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya’s support for the Muslim League, Raees Ahmad Jafri has quoted Huzoor’sra above-mentioned announcement in his book, Quaid-e-Azam Aur Unka Ehad – Hayat-e-Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

After mentioning Huzoor’sra announcement, the author raised a very pertinent question as to who was supporting the establishment of Pakistan, showing concern for the future of Muslims and striving for their success, in the same manner as Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

He finally answers his question himself: “Those against whom there is a knapsack of the edicts of ‘kufr’, whose non-Muslimness is talked about everywhere, [and] whose faith and belief is considered to be doubtful, suspicious and objectionable.” (Quaid-e-Azam Aur Unka Ehad – Hayat-e-Muhammad Ali Jinnah, p.

422) Chaudhry Abdul Malik Sahib, President Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bahlolpur, wrote to Huzoorra that Hafiz Abdullah [an opponent of the Jamaat] was running for the Muslim League’s ticket for central assembly. In response, Huzoorra

Muhammad Sarwar Dani of District Roypur wrote a letter to Huzoorra and requested for guidance regarding the upcoming elections. In response, Huzoorra wrote a letter and said: “You ought to support Muslim League in the present elections and offer

will cause the Muslims such political and economic setback, which will make being stable againvery difficult in the next 40 to 50 years […]

“So, through this announcement [...]

I advise Ahmadis of all provinces that they should support the Muslim League

stated: “The person who is running for the Muslim League’s ticket should be voted for. Although Abdullah is our severe opponent, [you should] not only vote for

After the great jalsa of 22-24 March 1940, where the Pakistan Resolution was passed, Bahadur Yar Jang visited Qadian on his way back to Hyderabad. He had a sitting with Huzoorra and discussed matters of mutual interest. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 8, pp. 43-49) Wavell Plan On 14 June 1945, Lord Wavell delivered a speech on radio and announced a plan for a new Executive Council in which all members, except the viceroy and the commander in chief, would be Indians. This executive council was to be a temporary measure until a new, permanent constitution could be agreed upon and come into force.

In light of this, Huzoorra addressed Indian leaders during his Friday Sermon of 22 June 1945 and stated: “No doubt, whatever powers India gets, whether it gets more or less, those powers will be beneficial and blessed for India anyway. So in my view, India’s acceptance of this offer [presented by Lord Wavell] does not mean to just make peace with the Englishmen; it actually means to do a great kindness upon ourselves and our future generation.” (Al Fazl, 23 June 1945, p. 4) Elections of 1945-46

Nawab Bahadur Yar Jang’s meetings with Huzoorra Nawab Bahadur Yar Jang was a prominent Muslim leader and one of the closest friends of Jinnah. Bahadur Yar Jang was greatly impressed by Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra.

Seith Muhammad Azam Hyderabadi states that during the visit of Hyderabad in October 1938, Huzoorra had a long conversation with Bahadur Yar Jang on the issues of Muslims in Hyderabad. He further stated that Bahadur Yar Jang often expressed that he was impressed by the political insight and intellect of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and Jinnah.

Continued on next page >>

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

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him, but also exert full effort to make him win.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 9, p.

284) A prominent leader, Sirdar Shaukat Hayat, states: “One day, I got a message from Quaidi-Azam saying ‘Shaukat, I believe you are going to Batala, which I understand is about five miles from Qadian. Please go there and meet the Hazrat Sahib of Qadian, request him on my behalf for his blessings and support for Pakistan’s cause.’

“After the meeting that night at about Twelve mid night, I reached Qadian.

When I got there, Hazrat Sahib had retired. I sent him a message that I had brought a request for him from the Quaidi-Azam. He came down immediately and enquired what were Qaid’s orders. I conveyed him Quaid’s message to pray for and also support Pakistan. He replied ‘Please convey to the Quaid-i-Azam that we have been praying for his Mission from the very beginning. Where the help of his followers is concerned, no Ahmadi will stand [in elections] against a Muslim Leaguer.’” (The Nation That Lost its Soul, p. 147) The elections for the central assembly were held in December 1945 and the Muslim League won all 30 seats which were reserved for Muslims. Then the elections for the provincial assemblies were held in January 1946 and Muslim League gained a great victory.

Cabinet Mission After these elections, Prime Minister Clement Attlee sent a delegation to India, commonly known as the “Cabinet Mission”, to discuss the transfer of powers from the British government to the Indian leadership and suggested a system for India with three tiers: the provinces, provincial groupings and the centre.

Upon this, Huzoorra wrote an article, titled “Parliamentary Mission and the Responsibility of the Indians” and gave valuable guidance. He strongly favoured the views of the Muslim League and shed light on the baseless propaganda carried out by the Congress. (Al Fazl, 6 April 1946, pp. 1-7).

A part of this article was published in the newspaper, Inqilab of Lahore on 19 April 1946 (p. 3).

Interim government After talks of nearly two months, it was announced that an interim government would be formed. The Muslim League agreed to be part of the interim government, but Congress denied. So, as per the agreement, the Muslim League had the full right to form the government while Congress disagreed.

At that time, Huzoorra stated: “Though Congress has accepted the scheme of the parliamentary mission in regard to the permanent system, it has rejected the suggestion regarding an interim government. The mission had announced that if any party would not accept its suggestions regarding the interim government, even then it would

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, Khalifatul Masih II, inspecting a unit of the All India National Volunteers Core, Qadian, 1935

form the government. According to this announcement, it is now its [the mission’s] obligation to form an interim government with the co-operation of other parties save the Congress.” (Al Fazl, 28 June 1946, p. 3) But Lord Wavell, Viceroy of India, did not fulfil the promise and withdrew the agreement. So, as a reaction, the Muslim League Council cancelled its first decision (of 6 June 1946) to be a part of the interim government with Congress.

Consequently, Congress saw it as their best chance to dominate and eventually, the viceroy of India invited Congress to form an interim government.

A new hope arose when talks between the Muslim League, Congress and the government restarted.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra went to Delhi on 22 September 1946 and started meeting with prominent political leaders, including Jinnah and Gandhi.

On 5 October 1946, Huzoorra sent a letter to the viceroy of India and stated that though Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya was a religious Jamaat and was not a part of the Muslim League as a whole, during the current political turmoil, the Jamaat’s sympathies and support were with the Muslim League. (Al Fazl, 7 October 1946) In another letter, Huzoorra wrote that if the talks ended without any solution, then instead of being disappointed, more time should be given to finding a solution for this conflict.

Huzoorra wrote the third letter to the viceroy, at a time when on the evening of 10 October, talks between the Muslim League and Congress took a delicate turn and seemed to be unsuccessful again.

Huzoorra instructed the Jamaat to pray in this regard, during his Friday Sermon of 11 October 1946. (Al Fazl, 30 October 1946) With Huzoor’sra efforts, this matter moved towards its solution and the Muslim League agreed to cooperate in

regard to the interim government without compromising their initial demands and informed the viceroy on 13 October 1946 about this decision.

When Jawaharlal Nehru Sahib wanted to hold the legislative assembly’s session on 9 December 1946, the viceroy denied by saying it was not the appropriate time.

But upon Nehru’s insistence, the viceroy agreed, but Quaid-e-Azam boycotted the assembly.

The government had to announce on 9 December 1946 that the constitution made by the assembly without the Muslim League would only be applicable on the Hindu majority areas, not the Muslim majority areas.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote to Prime Minister Attlee that he should not favour Congress by undermining the interest of the Muslims of India. (Tarikhe-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 9, p. 334) An announcement from the British prime minister On 20 February 1947, Attlee announced that the government wished to implement necessary plans to transfer power to responsible people of India by 8 June 1948.

Sir Khizar Hayat’s resignation When Sir Malik Khizar Hayat Tiwana, Unionist Premier of the Punjab, resigned from his post on 2 March 1947 – in which Sir Zafrulla Khanra played a huge role – Congress Working Committee passed a resolution during its session held on 6-8 March 1947 that Punjab should be divided into Muslim and non-Muslim Punjab and on 4 April, it was announced on All India Radio that the government was considering such suggestion.

Upon this, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent a telegram to the viceroy of India, in which he stated that he and his Jamaat fully condemned the suggestion of dividing Punjab and especially the suggestion that

Central Punjab should be separated from Western Punjab. He added that Muslims had a clear majority in the central parts of Punjab and they deserved the same rights as that of a nation living in any part of the world. (Al Fazl, 17 April 1947, p. 2) Huzoor’s response to an editorial of Akhbar Riasat Delhi’s newspaper “Riasat”, in its editorial, commented on the Jamaat’s support for the Pakistan Movement that Ahmadis were supporting Pakistan, but after its formation, the other Muslims would treat them exactly as the Afghan government had treated them in the past. Upon this, Huzoorra delivered a long speech in Masjid Mubarak, in which he stated: “... No matter in what way Muslim Leaguers treat us after the formation of Pakistan, whether they treat us the same as Kabul, or even with more severity, the question right now is, who is right in this dispute between Hindus and Muslims, and who is wrong … We have many times called the attention of Hindus that they are suppressing Muslims’ rights … We have many times cautioned the Hindus that it is unjust to ignore Muslims’ rights in such a way and many times we made the Hindu leaders aware that this suppressing of rights and injustice will have its consequences one day … They suppressed the Muslims’ rights in arrogance of their majority …

“No doubt, we often face problems from the [non-Ahmadi] Muslims and let us assume that they might hang us on the gallows, but I ask the Hindus, when did they provide us comfort, when did they give us peace … and when did they show sympathy towards us … It is our obligation to help the oppressed nation, no matter if they kill us or harm us. We have been harmed by every nation.” (Al Fazl, 21 May 1947, pp. 1-6) On 29 May 1947, Huzoorra advised

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 Muslims of India to act with perfect planning and beware of the sensitivity of the situation. (Al Fazl, 17 June 1947) Announcement of 3 June 1947 On 3 June 1947, the new Viceroy of India, Lord Mountbatten announced a scheme for transferring the powers and outlined the process.

Boundary Commission When a Boundary Commission was formed for the division of Punjab and Bengal, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, under the guidance of Huzoorra, continued to support the Muslim League and submitted its own Memorandum as well in support of the Muslim cause.

In relation to the sessions of Boundary Commission, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent a message to Quaid-e-Azam through Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dardra, in which he stated: “You may insist for Satluj [river], but at the same time, tell them that we will not agree if we are pushed beyond Beas [river] … In fact, we wish that the whole Punjab is not divided, but in case we accept the division, then our safe viewpoint is Beas, not Satluj.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 9, p. 388) Helping the oppressed Muslims of Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana As the time for the transfer of power was nearing, Muslims had to face many tribulations and oppression. Amritsar’s Muslims were also under huge oppression and Huzoorra instructed Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya to organise a Relief Camp in Amritsar and help the Muslims.

Due to the oppressions in some areas, including Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Ludhiana etc., the Muslims started inhabiting Batala and Qadian. On 12 August 1947, Huzoorra appointed Hazrat Maulana Jalaluddin Shams as in-charge of migrants and instructed to aid them and take care of their food and residence etc.

Muslim majority areas assigned to India At first, the Muslim majority areas of Batala, Gurdaspur and Pathankot were affiliated to Pakistan, but later, on 17 August 1947, they were assigned to India and thus Qadian became part of India.

In this regard, it is worth mentioning that the opponents of Ahmadiyyat raised an objection in front of the Court of Inquiry about the 1953 Punjab disturbances, that Gurdaspur was assigned to India due to the attitude adopted by the Ahmadis and the arguments addressed by Sir Zafrulla Khan Sahibra. In his report, Justice Muhammad Munir stated: “The President of this Court, who was a Member of that Commission, considers it his duty to record his gratitude to Chaudhri Zafrullah Khan for the valiant fight he put up for Gurdaspur.

This is apparent from the record of the Boundary Commission which anyone who is interested may see. For the selfless services rendered by him to the Muslim

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Successful online rally for Waqf-e-Nau Khuddam in UK Musharraf Ahmed Muawin Sadr for Waqf-e-Nau, MKA UK

The National Waqf-e-Nau Retreat of the MKA UK’s Waqf-e-Department was held on 27 February 2021. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa granted its approval in December 2020.

The programme lasted for seven hours and so far, about 13,400 people have watched it. It was streamed live on YouTube and the average viewing time was 23 minutes.

The programme began with a recitation of the Holy Quran at 10 am. According to the instructions of Huzooraa, the talim and tarbiyat aspects were taken into consideration in this programme.

Various careers were discussed and instructions of Huzooraa were presented as well. The primary addressees of this programme were waqifeen-e-nau Khuddam.

The programme was made interactive.

According to the instructions of Huzooraa, waqifeen-e-nau were informed of the importance of Huzoor’saa Friday sermon.

The waqifeen’s questions were answered, which were being asked through YouTube and WhatsApp as well.

In addition, three waqifeen-e-nau described their fields and how Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa guided them with respect to their area of expertise. These fields included MTA, civil services and medicine.

Moreover, a few young waqifeen-e-nau discussed in the studio how waqifeen-enau should have a strong relationship with Khilafat and the Jamaat and should request Huzooraa for his guidance at every step of life.

Similarly, a segment was arranged about the Jamia Ahmadiyya, in which the history of Jamia was explained and questions were answered, which can arise in the minds of waqifeen-e-nau regarding the Jamia. During the same segment, two graduates from Jamia told Khuddam about their precious moments with Huzooraa.

There was a one-hour break for Zuhr and Asr prayers, in which a poem and two documentaries were shown regarding Waqfe-Nau and correspondence with Huzooraa.

An interactive quiz was held after the break. About 800 people participated in this quiz. It comprised of questions about general

community, it is shameless ingratitude for anyone to refer to Chaudhri Zafrullah Khan in the manner in which he has been referred to by certain parties before the Court of Inquiry.” (Munir Inquiry Report, p. 293)

knowledge, history of Islam, history of the Jamaat and the scheme of Waqfe-Nau. After this, Omair Aleem Sahib, In-charge of Makhzan-e-Tasaweer, spoke about waqf and his memories with Huzooraa during many journeys.

The programme was concluded with a speech by Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya UK, at 5pm from the MTA Studios in Islamabad.

The subject of his speech was the famous announcement of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, “A servant of God is looking for you”. He also mentioned incidents of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa when he was serving as a waqif-e-zindagi in Ghana.

By the grace of Allah and with Huzoor’saa prayers and guidance, this programme has been successful. We are told that the entire programme was translated into Indonesian; positive comments are being received from all over the world.

Some comments received from viewers are as follows: Tahmeed Ahmad said, “It has changed my view on waqf.”

Adeniran Hibatul-Muizz said, “Alhamdulillah ... I am glad I am watching this ... so inspirational.”

Amatul Shafien said, “Enlightening and inspiring.”

Nasirur Rahman Enab said, “MashaAllah. A very nice speech and so inspirational.”

Ayesha Hossain Ava said, “Alhamdulillah, a very motivating and inspiring programme.”

Munawar Shahid said, “A really informative and thorough programme for the Waqf-e-Nau children and a complete guidance for them too.”

Naseer Mirza said, “Masha-Allah, a very heart-warming and motivating programme.

A testimony The Weekly Insaf of 21 April 1966 stated: “Mirza Sahib [Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra] truly guided and represented the Indian Muslims during the hard times, when the eyes of many Muslim leaders used to be dazzled by the attractive

M a y A l l a h bless all the waqifeen-e-nau and strengthen their bond with Khilafat. Amin.”

Mudassar Ahmad said, “Masha-Allah; Allah bless you. This Waqf-e-Nau Retreat is very beneficial and all of my family is listening. It feels like a mini Jalsa online.”

Shams Bhuiyan said, “Nice programme and also the documentary and Huzoor’s guidance regarding how to write letter to Khalifa in specific points.”

Sanaullah Mir said, “We appreciate the practical advice and life experiences the waqifeen-e-nau are providing.”

Malik Umair said, “We all participated in the quiz and thanks a lot for arranging such a programme. Jazakallah.”

Irfan Mahmood said, “May Allah bless this beautiful event and enable everyone to learn, seek guidance and remain attached with Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya.”

Hasib Ahsan Ratan, National Secretary Waqf-e-Nau Bangladesh, said, “Indeed, this is a very well-organised programme.

Praying for the success of the programme.”

Rehana Kokab, President Lajna Imaillah Finland, said, “Jazakallah for this fabulous programme. We have a tarbiyati class going on this weekend, yet in breaks, we are watching this live transmission with waqifaat-e-nau in Finland.”

disguise of the Congress.”

These were just glimpses of Huzoor’sra guidance and support to leaders of the Pakistan Movement and his role in the formation of Pakistan. It shows how he always strived for the rights of Muslims and desired for their prosperity.

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UK Waqf-eNau students revitalised after virtual mulaqat Musharraf Ahmed Muawin Sadr for Waqf-e-Nau, MKA UK

Following a successful mulaqat of Waqfe-Nau UK university students, a report of which is being given in this issue of Al Hakam, the participants felt extremely motivated.

Below are some of their impressions following this blessed audience:

Hamad Muin Ahmad said: “Alhamdulillah, I had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa some questions, to which he gave very helpful answers. At one stage, Huzooraa remembered my name and asked who else was studying medicine alongside me. I feel especially blessed to have participated in this mulaqat, alhamdulillah.”

Muhammad Abdul Wasay said:

“I was very nervous because I was meeting Huzooraa after a long time. I had the opportunity to ask a question. Firstly, Huzooraa said that I should take off my mask, but then he recognised me. I cannot believe that he had recognised me.”

Mudassar Zafri said: “I feel very fortunate that I attended this virtual class. It was virtual but I still felt that Huzooraa is with us here.”

Aqib Javed Rashid said: “I had the great opportunity to join this meeting and I had the opportunity to tell Huzooraa about my research. He took great interest in my research and also gave his opinion on it and asked me to pay attention to those things and report to him. This mulaqat was very helpful.”

Mauritius Khuddam amila share their thoughts following successful mulaqat Tawheed Joolfoo Mauritius Correspondent

Everything started back on 25 October 2020, during the virtual mulaqat of Mauritius Jamaat’s national amila, in which Huzooraa directed Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya to seek a meeting separately with him and to come out of the national amila’s shadow so that Khuddam may flourish.

As directed, a virtual mulaqat was requested, which was approved by Huzooraa to be held on 27 February 2021.

As soon as confirmation was received, a campaign started especially with regard to congregational prayers, as Huzooraa has particular concerns regarding attendance for prayers.

A wide-scale survey about attendance in Salat, knowledge of Salat’s translation, listening to Friday Sermon, marital status, employment status and other such information of MKA Mauritius was carried out.

The auspicious event took place in the Darus Salaam Mosque. Arrangements were tested three hours prior to the live meeting.

After the test call, the MTA Chairman in Mauritius, Noor Mohammad Sahib, briefed amila members.

Following the meeting, every participant felt the drive to do better; some of their

impressions are as follows: Shameem Jamal Ahmad Sahib, Sadr MKA Mauritius, said: “Alhamdulillah, alhamdulillah! Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said in one of his couplets that the Jamaat’s progress would always continue, whatever difficulties we might face. The pandemic has ushered the Jamaat into a new era, one where we are getting instructions first-hand from Khalifatul Masih.

“I am convinced that if we understand and implement Huzoor’saa guidance to the letter, this mulaqat will certainly be a turning point for the Khuddam organisation as a whole. What a blessed meeting! The radiance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa fills our hearts with happiness and motivates us to do much, much more.”

Umar Ahmad Sooltangos Sahib, Naib Sadr and Mohtamim Tarbiyat, said: “Many Ahmadis know that meeting with beloved Huzooraa is an awe-inspiring experience, to say the least. The fact that a meeting with him occurs over the Internet while he is 10,000 kilometres away does not change that experience one bit. But beyond the awe, there is no feeling in the world that comes close to the love one feels by simply laying eyes on beloved Huzooraa.

“Today, this is what I felt intensely as soon as Huzooraa started to address me. A

deep love and profound respect, a desire to obey every command of this true man of God. It felt like time had stopped and every second was the most important moment of our lives.

“I realised that today’s meeting was about duty, but the lasting impression on me was my love for Huzooraa has increased. May Allah always protect my beloved Khalifa.”

Shamsher Khudurun Sahib, Mohtamim Mal, said: “Huzoor’saa precious guidance on tarbiyat issues helped us and we understood how to prepare the younger generation. May Allah bless this mulaqat and help us achieve the expectations expressed by beloved Huzooraa.”

Mohsin Ramjeet Sahib, Mohtamim Khidmat-e-Khalq, said: “Despite Huzooraa not physically being present amongst us, it was a huge pleasure having His Holiness communicating with us live and able to see us, and vice-versa. The most important instruction we received is that we, the majlis-e-amila, must always lead by example, especially in congregational prayers.”

Norman Taujoo Sahib, Naib Mohtamim Sehat-e-Jismani, said: “My impression following this virtual mulaqat is exceptional; it was as if we were in the office of Huzooraa. We will, insha-Allah,

put in practice all the advice that beloved Huzooraa gave us during the mulaqat.”

Ahmad Ali Khudurun Sahib, Mohtamim Atfal, said: “It is always a great experience to have a mulaqat with Huzooraa. When Huzooraa was addressing me, I had difficulty in convincing myself that it was a reality. The humility and kindness of our beloved Khalifa is extraordinary. He has so much to do, yet still he spares time for us.”

Ahmad Jowaheer Sahib, Naib Mohtamim Atfal, said: “This was my third virtual mulaqat, by the grace of Allah. I was very stressed before the mulaqat, but Huzooraa made all of us feel very comfortable. This mulaqat will always be unforgettable.”

Yusoff Khudurun Sahib, Naib Mohtamim Ishaat, said: “Alhamdulillah, I was very happy and inspired by this mulaqat. When Huzooraa was smiling at me, it was a very beautiful personal experience which I will always remember throughout my life. But despite this, it is also very sad for me to see how Huzooraa was not happy with our report regarding daily congregational prayers. So, this will make us more motivated towards being very regular from now on, inshaAllah.”

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

Musleh-e-Maud Day commemorated worldwide

Sri Lanka A Abdul Aziz Sri Lanka Correspondent

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s Promised Reformer Day celebration was only held in Colombo and Negombo Jamaats.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Colombo

conducted Musleh-e-Maud Day Jalsa on 20 February 2021 via Zoom, in which Missionary-in-Charge AB Musthaq Ahmad Sahib addressed members of the Jamaat.

On 21 February 2021, Negombo Jamaat held its Musleh-e-Maud Day Jalsa. The programme started with a recitation from

Finland Syed Abdul Samad, Finland Correspondent

The day of 20 February holds special importance in the history of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya worldwide. This day is celebrated in the remembrance of the prophecy made by the Promised Messiahas about a son, which was fulfilled in the person of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, who later became the second Khalifa of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya celebrate this day by remembering how all the signs were fulfilled in the personality of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra which were foretold

by Allah the Almighty to the Promised Messiahas.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Finland also celebrated this day by holding Jalsa Muslehe-Maud Day, where different aspects of the personality of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra were discussed.

Due to the Covid-19 situation, the Jalsa was held online with very good

participation from all over Finland.

The programme was presided by Sadr Jamaat Finland, Ata ul Ghalib Sahib, and started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by an Urdu poem.

Afterwards the actual words of the divine prophecy were read out. This was followed by a brief presentation about Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in Finnish.

A detailed presentation was then presented regarding the schemes of Tahrik-e-Jadid and Waqf-e-Jadid, initiated

by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.

The final speech of this session was delivered by missionary, Musawer Ahmad Shahid Sahib. He narrated numerous incidents from the life of Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra reflecting his love of Allah the Almighty.

The overall attendance of this Jalsa was 215.

May Allah enable us to be obedient and loyal servants of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya.

Amin.

the Holy Quran with translation, followed by an Urdu nazm from Kalam-e-Mahmud.

Local president of the Negombo Jamaat, Shareef Ahmad Sahib delivered a welcome address. A missionary, Ahsan Sahib, read out the full text of the grand prophecy about Musleh-e-Maud. He narrated some instances that proved the acceptance of

prayers of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.

In his address, another missionary, Tahir Ahmad Sahib narrated some instances related to how Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra, in his childhood, was given tarbiyat by the Promised Messiahas.

The programme was also streamed live via Youtube and more than 250 views were recorded.

Columbus, USA

Syed Shamshad Nasir Missionary, USA

Rafi Malik Sahib, President Columbus Jamaat reports that Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Columbus held its annual Musleh-e-Maud Day programme via Zoom on 21 February 2021 — commemorating the prophecy about the Promised Reformer.

The programme started with a recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a poem from Kalam-e-Mahmud.

The president of the Columbus Jamaat moderated the session. In his opening remarks, he talked about the significance and purpose of holding Musleh-e-Maud

Day programmes.

The text of the divine prophecy was read out in Urdu and English languages.

Other speakers highlighted various aspects of the life and achievements of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. Various attributes of the Promised Son mentioned in the prophecy were also highlighted.

In his concluding remarks, the local president urged members to share their experiences of the Jamaat events with those members who were not able to attend and encourage them to attend such gatherings.

The total attendees of the programme was estimated to be over 150.

26

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

Canada Jamaat hold nationwide Musleh-eMaud Jalsas Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

Some of these jalsas across Canada included the following:

On 20 February 2021, Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Canada held Jalsa Musleh-eMaud across Canada.

This year marks the 135th anniversary of the divine revelation to the Promised Messiahas, prophesying the birth of a great son. This grand prophecy was published in its entirety in the February 2021 issue of the Ahmadiyya Gazette, Canada, in both Urdu and English for all to read and appreciate.

The prophecy by the Promised Messiahas was fulfilled in the person of his son, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra. He served Islam Ahmadiyyat for 52 years as the Second Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas. During this time, he made an all-out effort to glorify Islam and succeeded immensely.

Abdul Hafeez Gondal Sahib reports that this year, Musleh-e-Maud Day came during the Covid-19 pandemic. All 11 imarats and 30 jamaats of Canada across the six time zones, were advised to hold virtual jalsas, while following the same programme guidelines.

All jalsas started with a recitation and translation of the Holy Quran, a poem and a reading of the original text of the prophecy followed by its translation. English, Urdu, and French language translations were given, depending on local needs.

Edmonton East Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib gave a speech on, “The Prophecy of Musleh-e-Maud and truthfulness of Islam and the Promised Messiahas”.

Musleh-eMaud Day in Huddersfield, UK Aamir Shahzad President Huddersfield South

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Huddersfield North and South celebrated Musleh-e-Maud Day on 28 February 2021. During the jalsa, three speeches were delivered. The first speech was delivered by Dr Mansoor Sahib to highlight the purpose of auxiliary organisations established by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. The second speech was delivered by Sabahat Karim Sahib to remind Lajna, Khuddam, Atfal and Ansar as to what Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra expected of them.

The final speech was delivered by Mansoor Zia Sahib regarding the Muslehe-Maud prophecy and its fulfilment. He also presented a few Islamic jurisprudence questions and their answers were presented in light of Hazrat Musleh-eMaud’s writings.

At the end, President Huddersfield North, Mubashar Ahmad Sahib thanked the participants and the guest speakers.

Over 73 families attended the jalsa, which concluded with silent prayer.

Edmonton West Naib Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada, Abdul Bari Sahib presided the online event. He described glimpses of his personal, sweet memory of meeting with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in July 1965, while attending Quran class in Rabwah, Pakistan.

Vancouver National Secretary Talim, Dr Hameed Ahmad Mirza Sahib joined the online Vancouver jalsa. He described one of the virtues of the promised son, “He will be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge”.

He went on to explain how this has been fulfilled.

Additional Secretary Tarbiyat Nau Mubai‘een and Waqf-e-Jadid Vancouver, Salman Khan Sahib, in his English speech, elaborated the fulfilment of service to the Holy Quran by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.

Missionary, Saad Hayat Bajwa Sahib gave his Urdu speech on “Hazrat Muslehe-Maud’s living connection with Allah”, and presented many occasions where his prayers were accepted in an extraordinary manner.

Missionary, Umair Khan Sahib explained the importance of the prophecy.

Brampton East National Secretary Tahrik-e-Jadid, Rizwan Masood Mian Sahib joined the jalsa of Brampton East. Qaid Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Castlemore, Zargham Nasir Sahib gave an English speech on “The Promised Reformer: A pillar of Khilafat”.

Missionary, Aneeq Ahmad Sahib gave an Urdu speech on “Wu husn aur ehsan mein tera nazeer ho ga”.

A quiz on the two speeches was conducted with 159 participants.

Montreal Montreal conducted a trilingual jalsa in English, French and Urdu. The main speech was delivered in English by Missionary, Ishaque Fonseca Sahib on the topic, “Lifestyle of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and what we can learn from it today”.

Missionary, Nabil Mirza Sahib gave a French speech on the topic “Recits inspirants d’acceptation de prieres de Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud”. In his speech he presented faith inspiring incidents of the acceptance of prayers of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra.

Ottawa West Ottawa West Jamaat also conducted a trilingual jalsa in English, French and Urdu. The jalsa was presided by regional amir Eastern Canada, Aleemudin Ahmad Sahib.

Missionary, Luqman Ahmad Sahib spoke about “Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra Jihad against atheism”. Missionary, Farhan Iqbal Sahib delivered a presentation on

“The living connection with Allah that Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra had”.

In all jalsas across Canada, speakers gave faith-inspiring presentations. Selected video clips from the MTA library were also shown and Atfal and Nasirat also gave small presentations in these jalsas.

Approximately 5,000 viewers connected live to these jalsas and an estimated audience of 14,500 watched.

27

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021

Friday Sermon 5 February 2021 Men of Excellence: Hazrat Uthmanra bin Affan After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said: Previously the accounts from the life of Hazrat Uthmanra were being narrated and the battles he took part in. One of those expeditions was Dhat al-Riqa. The Holy Prophetsa set off against the Ghatfan tribes of Banu Tha‘labah and Banu Maharib in Najd with an army of 400 companions, or according to another narration, 700 companions. The Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Uthmanra as the amir in Medina, whereas according to another narration, the Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Abu Dharr Ghaffarira as the amir.

The Holy Prophetsa reached a place in Najd called Nakhl, which was also known as Dhat al-Riqa. A large army had gathered there in order to confront the Holy Prophetsa. Both armies lined up against each other, but a battle did not ensue and the people remained fearful of each other. During this very battle, the Muslims offered Salat al-Khauf [prayer during a time of danger] for the first time. (Ibn Hisham, Sirat Ibn Hisham, Ghazwat Dhat al-Riqa [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub alIlmiyyah, 2001], pp. 614-615) (Ibn Saad, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 2, Ghazwat Rasul Allahsa Dhat al-Riqa [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar Ihya al-Turath al-Arabiyy, 1996], p. 280) Why this expedition was called Dhat al-Riqa is because the companions patched their flags. It is also stated that there was a tree or a mountain in this area by the name of Dhat al-Riqa. A narration in Bukhari is as follows, Hazrat Abu Musa Ash‘arira relates: “We set off for a battle alongside the Holy Prophetsa. There were six of us. We had one camel among us, which we rode in turns. Our feet were cut open (that is, there was not six men in the expedition, but there were six men designated to one camel during the battle). Both of my feet were cut open as well and the nails had fallen off. We would wrap pieces of cloth around our feet. As such, it has been called the Battle of Dhat al-Riqa, that is, the battle of patches, as we had wrapped patches of cloth around our feet.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi, Ghazwat Dhat al-Riqa, Hadith 4128) There is an [additional] note by the

Research Cell, which is important and so I will mention it as well. According to the books of history and biographies of the Holy Prophetsa, the Battle of Dhat alRiqa took place in 4 AH. However, Imam Bukharirh has stated that this battle took place following the Battle of Khaybar, as Hazrat Abu Musa Ash‘arira participated in

this battle and he accepted Islam after the Battle of Khaybar. Therefore, the date of 7 AH seems to be more plausible. (Ibn Kathir, Al-Sirah al-Nabawiyyah, Ghazwat Dhat al-Riqa [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 2001], p. 614) (Ibn Saad, AlTabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 2, Ghazwat Rasul Allahsa Dhat al-Riqa [Beirut, Lebanon:

Dar Ihya al-Turath al-Arabiyy, 1996], p.

280) (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi, Ghazwat Dhat al-Riqa, Hadith 4128) With regard to the accounts in relation to the Conquest of Mecca, which took place in 8 AH, a detailed narration can be found in Sunan al-Nasai about those individuals whom the Holy Prophetsa had ordered to be executed on this occasion.

Hazrat Mus‘ab bin Saadra relates from his father: “On the day of the Conquest of Mecca, the Holy Prophetsa granted protection to all disbelievers, save four men and two women. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Kill these four individuals, even if you find them clinging on to the covers of the Ka‘bah.’ These were Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl, Abdullah bin Khatal, Maqees bin Subaba and Abdullah bin Saad bin Abi Sarh.

“When Abdullah bin Khatal was seized, he was holding on to the covers of the Ka‘bah. Saeed bin Huraith and Ammar bin Yasir, both rushed toward him. Saeed advanced and killed him. Maqees was caught by the people in the marketplace and killed. Ikrimah ran towards the sea.

The people aboard the ship were caught in a storm, upon which they said, ‘Be sincere and truthful, as your gods will be of no avail to you here.’ Hearing this, Ikrimah said, ‘By God! If there is anything that can save me on sea, it is sincerity and truthfulness. Furthermore, it is sincerity and truthfulness alone that can save me on land as well. O Allah! I sincerely pledge to You that if You save me from this storm, I will go to Muhammadsa and place my hand in his and I am certain that I will find him forgiving and benevolent.’ Following this, he returned and accepted Islam.”

The more commonly known narration is that before boarding the ship, his wife caught up with him and convinced him to return. This narration will be mentioned later on. Nevertheless, this aforementioned narration was from Sunan al-Nasai.

As for Abdullah bin Abi Sarh, he hid in the home of Hazrat Uthmanra bin Affan. Then, when the Holy Prophetsa invited people to pledge allegiance, Hazrat Uthmanra took him to the Holy Prophetsa

28 and said, “O Messengersa of Allah, accept the pledge of allegiance from Abdullah.”

The Holy Prophetsa looked up at him three times and refused each time. Eventually, the Holy Prophetsa accepted his pledge of allegiance and then later said, “Was there no wise person amongst you who could have killed that man whose pledge of allegiance I was hesitant about accepting?”

They replied saying, “O Messengersa of Allah! How could we know what was in your heart? Why did you not indicate this to us by signalling with your eyes?” The Holy Prophetsa said, “It does not behove a prophet to cast a glance in a deceptive manner.”

This narration is recorded in Sunan Abi Dawood. Although another [similar] narration is also present in Sunan Abi Dawood, the last part about killing him is not mentioned. Thus, in this narration [of Abu Dawood], Hazrat Ibn Abbasra states that Abdullah bin Saad bin Abi Sarh used to be a scribe for the Holy Prophetsa, but Satan drove him astray due to which he joined the disbelievers. On the day of the Conquest of Mecca, the Holy Prophetsa ordered for him to be killed. Hazrat Uthmanra bin Affan sought protection

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM for him upon which the Holy Prophetsa granted him protection. (Sunan al-Nasai, Kitab al-Maharibah, Bab al-Hukm fi alMurtad, Hadith 2072) (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Hudud, Bab al-Hukm fi man Irtadda, Hadith 2358-2359) With regard to the statement of the Holy Prophetsa saying that Abdullah should have been killed and asking why he was not, one explanation about this is that this narration of the Holy Prophetsa, in which he says to his Companions that when he had delayed accepting his pledge of allegiance, why had they not killed him is questionable, had the Holy Prophetsa not wished to accept his pledge of allegiance and wanted to remain firm on his decision to kill him, then he could have ordered for him to be killed. He was the victor and the leader of the state and the verdict of the death penalty was based upon justice. Thus, it is possible that a narrator added their own views in this narration.

Furthermore, this narration is not found in Bukhari or Muslim and another version of this narration on the same subject is found in Abu Dawood related by Hazrat Ibn Abbasra which has already been referred to earlier, and this also makes no mention of

the part about the killing.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra mentions these incidents in the commentary of Surah al-Mu‘minun, verse 15: “There is a historical incident associated with this verse which is necessary to mention here. There was a scribe by the name of Abdullah bin Abi Sarh who would write down the revelations received by the Holy Prophetsa. Whenever the Holy Prophetsa received a revelation, he would call him and have it written down. One day, while dictating these very verses [i.e.

Surah al-Mu‘minun verse 15], when he reached: ۡ

َ َ ً ۡ َ ُ َ ٰ َ َ َّ ُ ۚ‫اخ َر‬ ‫ثم أنشأنه خلقا ء‬

“[‘Then we developed it into another creation’ (Ch.23: V.15)], Abdullah spontaneously uttered the words:

َ ّٰ َ َ ۡ ٰۡ ‫ف َت ٰب َرک الل ُہ ا ۡح َس ُن الخ ِل ِقی َن‬

“[‘So blessed be Allah, the Best of creators’ (Ch.23: V.15)]. The Holy Prophetsa said that this is exactly what the revelation was and that he should write it down.

That wretched person did not realise that these words were the natural result of the preceding verses. Abdullah thought that since the words he had uttered were accepted by the Holy Prophetsa to be the same as the revelation, therefore he thought that the Holy Prophetsa was, Godforbid, making up the rest of the Quran himself. Thus, he became an apostate and went to Mecca. On the occasion of the Conquest of Mecca, Abdullah bin Abi Sarh was among those whom the Holy Prophetsa had issued the death penalty. However, Hazrat Uthmanra granted him protection and he hid in his home for three days. One day, when the Holy Prophetsa was taking the pledge of allegiance from the people of Mecca, Hazrat Uthmanra took Abdullah bin Abi Sarh to the Holy Prophetsa and requested that he accept Abdullah’s pledge of allegiance. The Holy Prophetsa initially showed some reluctance, but then he accepted his pledge of allegiance. Thus, Abdullah accepted Islam once again.”

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 6, p. 129) The incident of Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl’s acceptance of Islam as mentioned in the narration of Sunan al-Nasai is different to the account mentioned in the books of Islamic history. As I have mentioned before, Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl was among those whom the Holy Prophetsa ordered to be killed during the Conquest of Mecca.

Ikrimah and his father used to cause much pain to the Holy Prophetsa and severely persecuted the Muslims. When he discovered that the Holy Prophetsa had ordered for his execution, he fled towards Yemen. His wife pursued him after having accepted Islam and reached Ikrimah at the coast as he was about to board a ship.

According to one account, she found him after he had already boarded the ship. She stopped him saying, “O son of my uncle!

I have come to you from that person who unites people the most, who is the most pious and who is most well-wishing among the people. Do not put yourself in ruin for I have sought security on your behalf.” Thereupon he returned with his wife, accepted Islam and he did so in an exceptional manner.

According to one narration, when Ikrimah came before the Holy Prophetsa, he said, “O Muhammadsa! My wife has informed me that you have granted me amnesty.” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “You speak the truth. Indeed, you have been given amnesty.” Thereupon Ikrimah said, “I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, He has no partner and that you are His servant and Messenger” and then lowered his head out of embarrassment. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, “O Ikrimah! I shall grant you whatever you ask of me, so long as I have the power to bestow it.” He replied, “Pray for my forgiveness for every transgression I committed against you.” Upon this the Holy Prophetsa supplicated, “O Allah, forgive Ikrimah for all the transgressions he committed against me, or forgive him for all his evil deeds.” Then the Holy Prophetsa stood up brimming with joy and covered Ikrimah in his own cloak, saying, “Welcome, o ye, who has come to us in a state of faith and having migrated.”

Ikrimah was later counted among the most eminent companions. Ikrimah’s acceptance of Islam was also a fulfilment of that prophecy which the Holy Prophetsa narrated to his companions. He had seen in a dream that he was in paradise, where he saw a bunch of grapes which looked very pleasing to him. The Holy Prophetsa enquired, “Who is this for?”

It was said that it was for Abu Jahl. This was displeasing to the Holy Prophetsa and troubled him greatly. The Holy Prophetsa said, “None shall enter paradise except a believer, so how can this be for Abu Jahl?”

Later, when Ikrimah accepted Islam, this pleased the Holy Prophetsa greatly and he interpreted that the bunch of grapes referred to Ikrimah. (Ali bin Burhan alDin al-Halabi, Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, Bab Dhikr Maghaziyah, Ghazwat Fath Makkah [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 2002], 132-133.)

The Battle of Tabuk took place in Rajab 9 AH and is also known as Jaish al-Usrah, i.e. the “Army of Hardship.” The details in relation to the financial sacrifice offered by Hazrat Uthmanra are as follows: The Battle of Tabuk took place in 9 AH and is also known as Jaish al-Usrah, i.e. the “Army of Hardship.” The Holy Prophetsa made an appeal for contribution towards the preparation of this battle.

Upon this, Hazrat Uthmanra presented his entire trade caravan of 100 camels including its litter and saddles which had been prepared to go to Syria. The Holy Prophetsa made another appeal, and again, in light of the provisions required for the expedition, Hazrat Uthmanra prepared another 100 camels along with their litters and saddles and presented it to the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa yet again made another appeal and Hazrat Uthmanra for a third time prepared a further 100 camels, including their litter and saddles and presented them to the Holy Prophetsa.

When the Holy Prophetsa stepped down from his pulpit, he stated,

َ َ ‫ان َما َعم َل ب َ ْع َد َهذه ـ َما َعلَى ُع ْثم‬ َ َ ‫َما َعلَى ُع ْثم‬ ‫ان َما‬ ِ​ِ ِ َ َ َ َ ‫ع ِمل ب َ ْعد ه ِذ ِه‬

“There will be no retribution for whatever Uthman does from now on,

29

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 there will be no retribution for whatever Uthman does from now on” Apart from this, Hazrat Uthmanra presented 200 auqiyah of gold to the Holy Prophetsa.

According to another narration, Hazrat Uthmanra presented himself before the Holy Prophetsa and placed 1,000 dinars in the Holy Prophet’ssa lap. The Holy Prophetsa placed his hands in the coins that were in his lap and whilst moving them around, he twice stated:

ْ َ َ َ َ َ ‫َما َض َّر ُع ْثم‬ ‫ان َما ع ِمل ب َ ْعد ال َي ْوم‬

“There will be no retribution for whatever Uthman does from now on.”

According to another narration, Hazrat Uthmanra presented 10,000 dinars and the Holy Prophetsa prayed for Hazrat Uthmanra as follows:

َ َ َُْ َ َ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ َ َ ‫ان َما أ ْس َررت َو َما أ ْعل ْنت َو َما ه َو كائِ ٌن‬ ‫غف َر لك يا عثم‬ ْ َ َ َ َ َ ‫إلَى ي َ ْو ِم ال ِق َي‬ ‫ام ِة َما ي ُ َبال ِى َما ع ِمل ب َ ْعدها‬ ِ

“O Uthman! May Allah grant you His forgiveness for whatever you have done discreetly and openly and whatever you go onto to do till the Day of Judgment. As of today, he should not be concerned over any of his deeds.”

According to another narration, Hazrat Uthmanra presented 1,000 dinars and 70 horses for the preparation of this battle.

According to another narration, on this occasion the Holy Prophetsa stated to Hazrat Uthmanra: “O Uthman! May Allah grant you His forgiveness for whatever you have done discreetly and openly and whatever you go onto to do till the Day of Judgment. As of today, whatever he does, Allah will not hold him accountable.”

According to another narration, the Holy Prophetsa, on this occasion, prayed for Hazrat Uthmanra as follows: َٰ

ْ َّ ُ ّ َ ُ ْ َ ّ َ َ َُْ ْ َ ‫اض‬ ِ ‫أللهم ار‬ ٍ ‫ض عن عثمان ف ِإنِى عنه ر‬

“O Allah! Express Your pleasure for Uthman for I am also pleased with him.” (Sharh Zurqani ala al-Mawahib alLaduniyyah, Vol. 4, pp. 68, 66-71, Ghazwat Tabuk, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1996) (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab alManaqib, Bab ma fi Manaqib Uthman…, Hadith 3700 & 3701) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “At times, the Companionsra would sell the items and provisions in their homes and fulfil the expenditure for the battles. In fact, we also find examples whereby they sold all their properties and possessions and spent it for the sake of others and provided them for all their needs. For example, on one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa came out and stated, ‘Our army is leaving for an expedition, but the believers do not have any possessions. Is there anyone who wants to earn a good deed?’ Upon hearing this, Hazrat Uthmanra immediately stood up and whatever he had earned in profit, he presented it to the Holy Prophetsa in order to fulfil the expenses of the Muslim [army]. Observing this, the Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘Uthman has purchased Paradise!’

“Similarly, on one occasion a waterwell was available to buy and since the Muslims in those days were facing extreme hardship owing to the lack of water, the Holy Prophetsa asked if there was anyone who wanted to earn a good deed. Hazrat

Uthmanra submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! I am present and at your service.’

Following this, Hazrat Uthmanra purchased the water-well and donated it to the Muslims. Once again, the Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘Uthman has purchased Paradise!’

Similarly on another occasion the Holy Prophetsa used these same words. In short, there were three such occasions where the Holy Prophetsa stated that Hazrat Uthmanra had purchased Paradise.” (Khutbat-eMahmud, Vol. 19, pp. 98-99, Khutbah Jumu’ah Farmudah 18 February 1938) Hazrat Musleh Maudra states: “On numerous occasions, the Holy Prophetsa stated that Hazrat Uthmanra had purchased Paradise and that he was destined to enter Paradise. On the occasion of the Treaty of Hudaibiyyah, the Holy Prophetsa took an oath of allegiance from the Muslims once again, but Hazrat Uthmanra was not present there at the time.

The Holy Prophetsa placed his other hand upon his own hand and stated, ‘This is the hand of Uthman and I place my hand on behalf of his.’ In this way, the Holy Prophetsa declared his hand to be the hand of Hazrat Uthmanra. On another occasion, the Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘O Uthman! Allah will bestow you with a cloak. The hypocrites will try to remove this cloak from you but do not remove this cloak.’”

Hazrat Musleh Maudra continues: “Here, the Holy Prophetsa said to Hazrat Uthmanra not to remove this cloak and those who seek to remove it from him will in fact be the hypocrites.” (Khutbat-eMahmud, Vol. 19, p. 100, Khutbah Jumu’ah Farmudah 18 February 1938) Thus, from this it is evident that those [who opposed Hazrat Uthmanra] were hypocrites and the Holy Prophetsa had foretold about them.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh has mentioned the sacrifice of Hazrat Uthmanra as follows: “Once, provisions were required for a battle and the Holy Prophetsa made an appeal for the essential requirements before the Companionsra and urged them to offer financial sacrifices. Subsequently, Hazrat Abu Bakrra brought his entire wealth and Hazrat Umarra brought half of his wealth.

Hazrat Uthmanra submitted, ‘I will endure all the expense of 10,000 companions; kindly accept this from me.’ On top of that, he donated 1,000 camels and 70 horses.”

(Khutbat-e-Nasir, Vol. 2, p. 363, Khutbah Jumuah delivered on 18 October 1968) What were the services and status of Hazrat Uthmanra during the era of Hazrat Abu Bakr’sra Khilafat and what was his rank in the eyes of Hazrat Abu Bakrra? During the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Uthmanra was among those companions and a part of the consultative body with whom Hazrat Abu Bakrra would seek consultation regarding important matters.

After having suppressed the rebellion of the apostates, Hazrat Abu Bakrra decided to launch an attack against the Byzantines and also decided to send the Mujahideen to various fronts. Hazrat Abu Bakrra sought consultation from the people on this matter and upon this some of the companions presented their suggestions.

When Hazrat Abu Bakrra sought further consultation, Hazat Uthmanra submitted,

“You are a well-wisher of the believers of this faith and show benevolence to them.

Thus, whatever you decide is beneficial for the people, you should make firm resolve regarding it because no one can think ill about you.” In other words, Hazrat Uthmanra stated that no one could ever think ill of Hazrat Abu Bakrra. Upon this, Hazrat Talhara, Hazrat Zubairra, Hazrat Saadra, Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra, Hazrat Saeed bin Zaidra, as well as the other Muhajireen and Ansar members who were present in this gathering agreed with Hazrat Uthmanra that he had indeed spoken the truth.

[Hazrat Uthmanra further stated], “Do whatever you deem appropriate; we will neither oppose you nor lay any blame on you.” After this, Hazrat Alira spoke and then Hazrat Abu Bakrra stood among the people and praised Allah the Almighty which He is most worthy of and invoked salutations [Durood] upon the Holy Prophetsa.

Thereafter, he stated, “O people! Allah the Almighty has bestowed His blessings upon you through the religion of Islam; He has granted you honour through Jihad; and through this faith, He has granted you superiority over all other faiths. Thus, O servants of Allah! Prepare an army to go to battle against the Byzantines in the land of Syria.” (Tarikh Dimashq al-Kabir li Ibn Asakir, Vol. 1, p. 46, Dar Ihya al-Turath alArabiyy, Beirut, 2001) When Hazrat Abu Bakrra sought consultation from his companions as to who should be appointed as the governor of Bahrain in place of Hazrat Abanra bin Saeed, Hazrat Uthmanra bin Affan submitted, “Send the person who was appointed as the governor over the people of Bahrain by the Holy Prophetsa himself.

He subsequently became the means of

them accepting Islam and demonstrating their obedience. He is also well-aware of its people and the area. That is, Alaa bin Hadrami.” Upon this, Hazrat Abu Bakrra expressed his agreement to this suggestion and appointed Alaa bin Hadrmi as the governor of Bahrain. (Kanz al-Ummal, Vol. 3, Ch. 5, p. 248, Kitab al-Khilafa ma‘a al-Imarah, Hadith 14089, Dar al-Kutun alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 2004) Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates that during the era of Hazrat Abu Bakr’sra Khilafat, there was a drought and the people presented themselves before Hazrat Abu Bakrra and submitted, “There is no rainfall from the skies and the ground is not producing any vegetation. Consequently, people are facing extreme difficulty.” Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied, “Return and remain patient, Allah the Almighty will alleviate your concerns by this evening.” Meanwhile, Hazrat Uthman’sra trade caravan consisting of 100 camels laden with wheat and other food provisions arrived in Medina from Syria.

Upon hearing news of this, people assembled outside the door of Hazrat Uthmanra and knocked on his door. Hazrat Uthmanra came out and enquired from the people what they wanted. They replied, “You are aware that we are experiencing a drought. There is no rainfall from the skies and the ground is not producing any crops and people are extremely concerned.

We have come to know that you have grain, therefore if you could sell it to us, we will distribute it amongst the needy and poor.” Hazrat Uthmanra replied, “Very well, come inside and purchase it.” The merchants entered his house and saw the grain stored inside. Hazrat Uthmanra said to the merchants, “How much profit will

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you give me on all this grain which I have purchased from Syria.” (He asked that he had purchased the provisions from Syria and transported them. How much would they give him for it. Some of them wanted to distribute it free of cost whilst others wanted to enter into a trade agreement.)

They stated that they would give 12 in exchange of 10. (In other words, if the cost was 10 dirhams, they would give 12 dirhams in return.)

Hazrat Uthmanra said, “I am receiving an offer greater than this.” They replied, “We will offer 15 instead of 10.” Hazrat Uthmanra said, “I am receiving even more than this.” The merchants said, “O Abu Amr! There are no merchants in Medina aside from us. Who then is giving you more than this?” Hazrat Uthmanra replied, “Allah the Almighty is giving me 10 dirhams in exchange for my one dirham” i.e. giving tenfold in return for every one. “Are you able to give me more than this?” They replied, “No, we cannot give you more than this.” To this Hazrat Uthmanra said, “I call upon Allah as my witness that I give this grain for the poor Muslims as sadaqah” i.e. he gave away all the grain to the poor without taking anything in return for it.

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates, “On the day this incident took place”, i.e. the grain was given away as sadaqah, “I saw the Holy Prophetsa in a dream. He was mounted on a large non-Arab horse. The Holy Prophetsa was wearing a garment infused with spiritual light; his shoes were full of light and in his hand, he was wielding a stick full of light. It seemed that the Holy Prophetsa was in a hurry. I said to him, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! I was eager to meet you and speak with you! Where are you heading to in such a hurry?’ The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘O Ibn Abbas! Uthman has presented a sadaqah and Allah the Almighty has accepted it and has arranged for his marriage in Heaven. I have also been invited to attend the wedding.’” (Sirat Amir-il-Momineen Uthman bin Affan liAli Muhammad al-Salabi, pp. 51-52, Vol.

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

1; Dhu al-Nurain Uthman bin Affan bain Makkah wa Madinah, Dar al-Ma‘rifah, Beirut, Lebanon, 2006) I will present a few accounts with regard to Hazrat Uthman’sra status and rank during the Khilafat of Hazrat Umarra.

When Hazrat Umarra was appointed as the Khalifa, he decided to seek advice from the eminent companions about their stipends from the treasury [Bait-ul-Maal]. Upon this, Hazrat Uthmanra stated, “Make use of it and impart some to us also.”(Sirat Amir-il-Momineen Uthman bin Affan li-Ali Muhammad al-Salabi, p. 52, Vol. 1, Dhu alNurain; Uthman bin Affan bain Makkah wa Madinah, Dar al-Ma‘rifah, Beirut, Lebanon, 2006) In other words, he should use the money to fulfil his requirements and to also help the people with their needs, so there is no need to fix an amount. When the Islamic Empire began to expand as did its wealth, Hazrat Umarra gathered some of the companions to seek counsel about the wealth. Hazrat Uthmanra said, “I feel that the wealth has increased to an amount that it will be enough for the people. If we do not keep a record of the people who have received their share and those who have not, I fear that we will fall into great difficulty”, i.e some people may take it twice, “therefore, a set system should be implemented and records should be kept.”

Upon this, Hazrat Umarra accepted the advice of Hazrat Uthmanra and a census was carried out in which names were recorded in a register. After this people began to officially receive their share. (Sirat Amir-il-Momineen Uthman bin Affan li-Ali Muhammad al-Salabi, p. 54, Vol. 1, Dhu alNurain; Uthman bin Affan bain Makkah wa Madinah, Dar al-Ma‘rifah, Beirut, Lebanon, 2006) With regard to Hazrat Uthman’sra Khilafat, there is a prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa. It has been mentioned briefly before regarding the wearing of a cloak and the hypocrites taking it off. This tradition is narrated by Hazrat Abu Bakarahra that

one day, the Holy Prophetsa asked, “Has anyone among you seen a dream?” One person said that he had seen [a dream] that a scale descended from the Heavens and the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra were weighed against one another and the Holy Prophetsa was heavier. Then, Hazrat Abu Bakrra was weighed against Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Abu Bakrra was heavier.

Then Hazrat Umarra was weighed against Hazrat Uthmanra and Hazrat Umarra was heavier. Then the scales were raised back up to the Heavens. We looked to the face of the Holy Prophetsa and saw that he was displeased by this.” The Holy Prophetsa was not overjoyed by this dream but instead he was greatly displeased. (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Sunnah, Bab fi al-Khulafa, Hadith 2634) Another narration is as follows: Hazrat Jabir bin Abdillahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa once said, “In the night, a righteous person was shown in a dream that Hazrat Abu Bakrra was joined with the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Umarra was joined to Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Uthmanra was joined with Hazrat Umarra.”

Hazrat Jabirra further narrates, “When the Holy Prophetsa stood up to depart, we said that the righteous person represented the Holy Prophetsa and for some of them to be joined to others meant that these people would be the rulers over this matter”, i.e. faith, “which Allah the Almighty established through His Prophetsa.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Sunnah, Bab fi alKhulafa, Hadith 2636) Hazrat Samurah bin Jundub narrates that a man said, “O Messengersa of Allah! I saw a bucket hanging from the sky. Hazrat Abu Bakrra came, held both ends of its wooden handle and drank a little from it.

Next came Hazrat Umarra who held both ends of its wooden handle and drank from it to his fill. Next came Hazrat Uthmanra who caught hold of both ends of its handle and drank of it to his fill. Next came Hazrat Alira. He held both ends of its handle, but it sprayed out and some water from it fell on

him.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Sunnah, Bab fi al-Khulafa, Hadith 2637) This was also an indication of the order of Khilafat. Hazrat Ali’sra era of Khilafat was one of disorder and turmoil. There was an indication to this in that he was not able to drink from it properly.

With regard to the electoral committee for Khilafat formed for the election of Hazrat Uthmanra, Hazrat Miswarra bin Makhrama relates that when Hazrat Umarra bin Khattab recovered somewhat after the attack on him, he would be requested to appoint a Khalifa after him; however, he would always refuse to do so.

One day, Hazrat Umarra came to the pulpit and mentioned a few things and then said, “If I pass away, then I entrust your affairs to six individuals, whom the Holy Prophetsa was pleased with at the time of his demise. They are: Hazrat Ali bin Abu Talibra and bearing similarity to him, Hazrat Zubairra bin Awam; Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf and bearing similarity to him, Hazrat Uthmanra bin Affan; Hazrat Talhara bin Ubaidullah and bearing similarity to him, Hazrat Saadra bin Malik.

Hearken, for I instruct you all to adopt righteousness and justice whilst carrying out your decisions.”

Abu Jafar relates that Hazrat Umarra bin Khattab told the members of the Electoral Committee, “Consult with one another and if your decision is equally split then consult again and if there are four votes to two, then go with the majority.”

Zaid bin Aslam relates from his father that Hazrat Umarra stated that if there was a split in the votes, i.e. three on each side, then choose and show obedience to the one who Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Aufra voted for.

Abdur Rahman bin Saeed states that when Hazrat Umarra was injured [after the attack on him], he instructed that [after his demise] Hazrat Suhaibra would lead them in prayer for three days, i.e. he appointed Hazrat Suhaibra as the imam alSalat. Hazrat Umarra then stated that [after his demise] they would consult with one another to appoint the next Khalifa and entrusted this matter to six individuals. He also stated that anyone who opposes this, should be killed.

Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrates shortly before his demise, Hazrat Umarra sent a message to Hazrat Abu Talhara stating, “O Abu Talha, take 50 men from among your tribe of the Ansar and go to those six men who are part of the electoral committee and remain there for three days until they appoint someone from amongst themselves as the Khalifa. O Allah, You are the guardian over them.”

Ishaq bin Abdillah relates that Hazrat Abu Talhara stood beside the grave of Hazrat Umarra for a while along with his men and then remained with the members of the electoral committee. When members of the committee decided to entrust the responsibility of electing their leader with Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf and stated that he should appoint whoever he decides, Hazrat Abu Talhara along with his men stood guard at the house of Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf until the people pledged allegiance to Hazrat Uthmanra.

Hazrat Salama bin Abi Salamara relates

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AL HAKAM | Friday 5 March 2021 from his father that the first person to pledge allegiance at the hands of Hazrat Uthmanra was Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf and after that it was Hazrat Alira.

Umar bin Umairah, the freed slave of Hazrat Umarra relates from his grandfather that the first person to pledge allegiance to Hazrat Uthmanra was Hazrat Alira and after that everyone else pledged allegiance. (Ibn Saad, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 3, Dhikr Shura wa ma kana min Amrihim, Dhikr Bai‘at Uthman [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar Ihya al-Turath al-Arabiyy, 1996], pp. 34-35) Details of Hazrat Umar’sra final days during his illness, his advice to the subsequent Khalifa and to the electoral committee members are recorded in Sahih Bukhari as follows: The people said, “O Leader of the Faithful! Appoint a successor after you as part of your will.” Hazrat Umarra said, “I do not find anyone more suitable for the station of Khilafat than the following persons whom the Holy Prophetsa had been pleased with before he passed away.”

Then Hazrat Umarra mentioned the names of Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Uthmanra, Hazrat Zubairra, Hazrat Talhara, Hazrat Saadra and Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf and said, “Abdullah bin Umarra will be a witness to you, but he will not be entitled to the station of Khilafat.”

I have narrated this previously, therefore I will only mention it briefly here. Nonetheless, after Hazrat Umarra passed away and they completed the burial proceedings, all the six people named by Hazrat Umarra gathered together. Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf stated, “Select any three candidates among you for Khilafat.” Hazrat Zubairra said, “I give my vote to Hazrat Alira.” Hazrat Talhara said, “I give my vote to Hazrat Uthmanra.” Hazrat Saadra said, “I give my vote to Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf.” Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra then said to Hazrat Uthmanra and Hazrat Alira, “Whoever of you withdraws their name, we will entrust him with this responsibility and Allah and Islam will be their guardian” i.e. the matter of choosing the Khalifa will be assigned to him, “and Allah the Almighty will choose the one Who He deems most worthy.” Upon hearing this, both noble men fell silent.

Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra then said, “Will you both leave this matter to me and I take Allah as my witness that I will not choose but the better of you?”

I.e. to then leave the matter to Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Aufra and he would then become the chair of the committee.

He first asked one of them to become the chair of the committee, but neither agreed to this. As a result, Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra withdrew his name from this matter and took charge as the chair of the committee.

Nonetheless, he said that his decision would be based on justice and that Allah would be his guardian.

Both of them agreed. So Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra took the hand of one of them and said, “You are related to Allah’s Messengersa and you hold a lofty status within Islam, which you are aware of.

Allah is your guardian – if I select you as our leader, will you do justice? And if I select Uthmanra as our leader, will you

listen to him and obey him?” Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra took the hand of Hazrat Alira first, “Then Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra took the other aside”, this time it was Hazrat Uthmanra, “and advised him in a similar manner. When Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Aufra secured this covenant from both of them, he then said, “O Uthmanra!

Extend your hand.” He [i.e. Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra] then took the pledge of allegiance followed by Hazrat Alira and the members within the household also came and pledged their allegiance to Hazrat Uthmanra. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Fada‘il Ashab al-Nabiyysa, Bab Qissat al-Bai‘ah, Hadith 3700) With regard to Hazrat Umar’sra demise and Hazrat Uthman’sra election as Khalifa, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “When Hazrat Umarra was injured and realised that his demise was imminent, he nominated six persons and advised them to elect the Khalifa from among themselves. They included Hazrat Uthmanra, Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf, Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas, Hazrat Zubairra and Hazrat Talhara.

In addition to them, he included Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra as an advisor, but did not declare him entitled to Khilafat.

He also admonished that these people should give their verdict within three days and Suhaibra should lead the prayer during that period of time. He appointed Miqdad bin Al-Aswadra to oversee the consultation and election process and directed him to gather the electoral college at one place and to guard them. He further said that the people should pledge allegiance to the person who was elected by the majority of votes and if anyone declined to do so, then he should be killed. If there were three votes on each side, then Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra would recommend who the Khalifa should be. If the members of the electoral college did not agree to the decision of Abdullahra bin Umar, then the person favoured by Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf should be appointed as Khalifa.

These five companions discussed this matter, as Talhara was not in Medina at that time, but could not come to any conclusion. After a lengthy discussion, Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf asked if anyone wanted to withdraw his name, but all of them remained quiet. On this, Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf withdrew his name, then Hazrat Uthmanra withdrew his name and then two others did the same.

Hazrat Alira remained quiet; however, he then took a pledge from Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra bin Auf that he (i.e. Hazrat Abdur Rahmanra) would be completely impartial, and entrusted the responsibility of making the decision to him. For three days, Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Aufra visited every house in Medina to obtain the opinion of every man and woman in regard to who they thought should be elected as Khalifa. All of them expressed their agreement to the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra. Thus, he gave his verdict in favour of Hazrat Uthmanra and he became the Khalifa.” (Khilafat-e-Rashidah, Anwarul-Ulum, Vol. 15, pp. 484-485) Allama Ibn Saad writes: “The pledge of allegiance to Hazrat Uthmanra took place on Monday, 29 Dhul

Hijjah 23 AH. Nazzal bin Sabrah relates that when Hazrat Uthmanra became Khalifa, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Masud stated, ‘Amongst those who remain from us, we have elected the best person and we carried out this election with utmost diligence.’”

There is a narration in regard to the very first address delivered by Hazrat Uthmanra upon being elected Khalifa. Ismail bin Ibrahim bin Abdir Rahman bin Abdillah bin Abi Rabiyyah Makhzumi relates from his father that when they performed the bai‘at at the hands of Hazrat Uthmanra, he came before the people and delivered an address. After praising and glorifying Allah the Almighty, Hazrat Uthmanra stated, “O people! Doing something for the first time can be difficult.” It can be challenging when doing something for the first time.

“There will be many days to come after this one. If I remain alive, then God-willing, I

will deliver a more comprehensive address before you.”

In other words, he was only delivering a brief address at the time, but stated that there would be many days to come and he would deliver a more comprehensive address. Hazrat Uthmanra further stated, “I am not a speaker; however, Allah the Almighty will teach me” i.e. Allah the Almighty would teach him the ability to deliver a speech. (Ibn Saad, Al-Tabaqat alKubra, Vol. 3, Uthman bin Affan [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar Ihya al-Turath al-Arabiyy, 1996], pp. 34-35) Badr bin Uthman relates from his uncle that when the members of the electoral committee pledged their oath of allegiance [bai‘at] to Hazrat Uthmanra, he came out in a state whereby he was the most emotional amongst them all. Hazrat Uthmanra then stood upon the pulpit of the Holy Prophetsa and delivered an address. Hazrat Uthmanra

32 praised and glorified Allah the Almighty and invoked salutations [Durood] upon the Holy Prophetsa. Thereafter, Hazrat Uthmanra stated, “Verily, you all dwell in an abode, which you will one day have to depart from”; in other words, the life in this world. “You are in the advanced years of your lives, therefore perform as many virtuous deeds as you can before your demise. Indeed, death is imminent and this enemy [i.e. death] can launch its attack at any moment in the day or in the night.

“Hearken! The life of this world is filled with deception and dishonesty, therefore let not the life of this world deceive you and nor let the deceptive ploys of Satan deceive you in matters relating to God. Take heed from the example of those who have gone before you. Strive to your utmost and do not become negligent because Allah is not unmindful of what you do. Where are the worldly people and their brethren who would dig up the earth and populated the land, remaining therein for a long period of time? Did Allah not cast them out from it?

“Thus, treat this world as Allah deals with it and seek the Hereafter, seek the Hereafter, for Allah gives an example of this world comparing it to something most excellent when He says:

Friday 5 March 2021 | AL HAKAM

Naskh in the Holy Quran The Promised Messiah’sas stance on the abrogation of Quranic verses

َّ َ ُ ٰ ۡ َ ۡ َ َ َ َ ۡ ُّ ٰ َ ۡ َ َ َّ ۡ ُ َ ۡ ۡ َ ‫الس َمٓا ِء‬ ‫و اض ِرب لہم مثل الحیو ِۃ الدنیا کمٓا ٍء انزلنہ ِمن‬ ُ َ​َ َ​َ َ ۡ َ َ‫الر ٰی ُح ؕ َو کَان‬ ّ ‫ات الۡاَ ۡرض َفاَ ۡص َب َح َہ ِش ۡی ًما تَ ۡذ ُر ۡو ُہ‬ ِ ٰ ‫فاختلط ِب ٖہ نب‬ ِ ُۡ َ ُ ّ ‫الل ُہ َع ٰلی ک ِ ّل ش ۡی ٍء ّمق َت ِد ًرا‬ ُّ ٰ َ ۡ ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ َ ۡ َ ُ َ ۡ َ َۡ ّٰ ‫الدن ۡ َیا ۚ َو ال ۡ ٰب ِق ٰی ُت‬ ‫الص ِل ٰح ُت خی ٌر‬ ‫المال و البنون زِینۃ الحیو ِۃ‬ ً‫ع ۡن َد َر ّب َک ثَوَ ًابا َّو َخی ۡ ٌر اَ َملا‬ ِ ِ

“(These are verses of Surah Al-Kahf.)

‘And set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: it is like the water which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth is mingled with it, and then it becomes dry grass broken into pieces which the winds scatter. And Allah has power over everything. Wealth and children are an ornament of the life of this world. But enduring good works are better in the sight of thy Lord in respect of immediate reward, and better in respect of future hope.’ [Ch.18: V.46-47] “Subsequently, the people rushed forth to pledge allegiance to him.” (Muhammad Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 5, p. 87, year 24, Khutbat Uthman wa Qatl Ubaid Allah bin Umar al-Harmazan, Dar al-Fikr, Beirut, 2002) I will mention the conquests during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra. During the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra, Allah the Almighty granted victory to the Muslims in the following areas: conquest of Ifriqiya, i.e. the areas of Algeria and Morocco, conquest of Al-Andalus, Spain in 27 AH, conquest of Cyprus in 28 AH, conquest of Tabaristan in 30 AH, conquest of AlSawari [Battle of the Masts], conquest of Armenia, conquest of Khorasan in 31 AH, expeditions towards Byzantine territories, conquests of Marw Al-Rudh, Taleqan, Faryab, Jowzjan, Tokharistan, Balkh and Herat in 32 AH. Aside from this, it is mentioned that Islam entered India during the reign of Hazrat Uthmanra. (Sheikh Shah Moinuddin Ahmad Nadvi, Siyar alSahabah, Vol. 1 [Karachi, Pakistan: Dar

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

www.alhakam.org/responding-to-allegations-naskh-in-the-holy-quran-the-promised-messiahs-a-s-stance-onthe-abrogation-of-quranic-verses-part-i/

al-Isha‘ah, 2004], pp. 165-168) (Ibn Kathir, Al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah, Vol. 10, Year 31, [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub alIlmiyyah, 1998] p. 237) (Muhammad Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 2, p.

625, year 31, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1987) (Bar-e-Saghir mein Islam ky Awwalin Nuqush, Muhammad Ishaq Bhatti, Research Institute, pp. 63, 65) Some further details about these expeditions and conquests are as follows: In 27 AH, Hazrat Uthmanra dispatched an army of 10,000 men under the command of Abdullah bin Abi Sarh to Ifriqiya. Ifriqiya is the area that is present day Algeria and Morocco etc. Allah the Almighty granted Muslims victory.

Al-Andalus, Spain, 27 AH: From Ifriqiya, Hazrat Uthmanra ordered Abdullah bin Nafi bin Husain Fihri and Abdullah bin Nafi bin Abd Qais Fihri to advance towards Al-Andalus. They marched towards Al-Andalus and Allah the Almighty granted them victory. (Ibn Kathir, Al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah, Vol. 7, Year 27-28, [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar alKutub al-Ilmiyyah, 2001] pp. 147-148)

The conquest of Cyprus took place in 28 AH. According to a narration of Abu Ma‘shar, Cyprus was conquered in 33 AH. According to some narrations, it was conquered in 27 AH. In the historical accounts of Tabari and Al Badaya wa Al Nahaya, this conquest is recorded to have taken place in 28 AH. In this battle, Hazrat Abu Dharr Ghaffarira, Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit and his wife Hazrat Umm Haramra bint Milhan, Hazrat Miqdadra, Hazrat Abu Dardara and Hazrat Shaddadra bin Aus were all present.

Cyprus is an independent island situated to the west of Syria. It has an abundant of orchards and mines. Cyprus was conquered by Amir Mu‘awiyahra with the permission and orders of Hazrat Uthmanra. In this expedition, Hazrat Umm Haramra bint Milhan was also present, about whom the Holy Prophetsa had informed of her martyrdom. On the return from this journey, a mount was brought for her and when she was about to climb on top, she fell and broke her neck, as a result of which she attained martyrdom. (Muhammad Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 5, p.

95, year 28, Dar al-Fikr, Beirut, 2002) (Ibn Kathir, Al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah, Vol. 7, Year 28, [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 2001] pp. 148-149) There are accounts remaining, which I shall, insha-Allah, narrate in the future sermons.

I will mention about prayers again today; continue to pray for the Ahmadis in Pakistan; may Allah the Almighty improve their situation. May Allah enable the Ahmadis living in Pakistan to offer supplications, to bring about reform in themselves and to strengthen their relationship with Him. May Allah the Almighty swiftly remove these difficult times and bring about prosperity. May we see the Ahmadis there being able to fulfil their [religious] obligations with complete freedom.

(Original Urdu published in Al Fazl International, 26 February 2021, pp. 5-10.

Translated by The Review of Religions.)

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