Al Hakam - 2 April 2021 by Alhakam

Arrival of the electric train in Qadian: A new milestone

Clement Wragge’s second meeting with the Promised Messiah

“The imam is a shield” Huzoor’s warning about Fortnite

Jamaat’s representation at the International Women Day event by One Vision charity

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Part I

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021 | Issue CLIX Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Detailed instructions for Germany Lajna amila by Hazrat Amirul Momineen On 27 March 2021, the national amila of Lajna Imaillah Germany were blessed with the opportunity of meeting Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa through a virtual mulaqat. After extending his salaam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa led everyone in silent prayer, after which secretaries of various departments began introducing themselves and presenting their reports. The first report was presented by Naib Sadr Lajna Germany, who said that her work consisted of accomplishing and fulfilling various responsibilities given to her by Sadr Sahiba. Secretary tabligh presented her report next. In the report, she stated that during World Women’s Day, an online programme was held in which 1,500 female guests participated. Hearing this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said, “Masha-Allah! You have done well.” Huzooraa then asked how many women in Germany were currently under tabligh; to this, the secretary replied that at the moment, there were 1,900 women. Upon enquiring about their bai‘at target,

the secretary said that each majlis was tasked with achieving one bai‘at and each member of the national amila was also tasked with achieving one bai‘at. Addressing the talim department, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked about the various projects that were in progress. The secretary replied that they had started classes which focused on teaching the correct recitation and pronunciation of the Holy Quran. Apart from this, the Promised Messiah’sas book, Nishan-e-Asmani, was being taught. She added that the book, Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part 5, was selected for those Lajna members who wished to study further. Khidmat-e-khalq department reported to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa that they were visiting the sick, had helped and aided the elderly and asylum seekers. The secretary for khidmat-e-khalq added that there was a Lajna helpline to support other Lajna members who were facing any sort of difficulties. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that there should also be some other work or Continued on next page >>

Those who have questions, but could not ask, can write to me; I will answer them

Atfal from USA gathered at Bait-ur-Rahman Mosque, Maryland, for their virtual mulaqat with Huzooraa Photo credit: MTA International

USA’s Atfal questions answered in virtual mulaqat On Sunday, 28 March 2021, Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya USA were given the opportunity to meet Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and ask questions. The Atfal were seated in Bait-ur-Rahman Mosque. Anoosh Ahmad, a young tifl, was called up by Huzooraa for a recitation from the Holy Quran and Al-Amin Adewusi was called to give its translation. Huzooraa asked

Al-Amin Adewusi if he was from Ghana, to which he replied that he was from Nigeria. Iqan Malik read out a hadith in Arabic and Hamza Qamar presented its English translation. Qasim Malik recited an Urdu poem written by the Promised Messiahas, after which Kamran Asqar presented its translation. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then asked Continued on page 4

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

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

The virtue of seeking knowledge

َ ّ ٰ َّ َ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ ّٰ ُ ‫ع ْن أ� ِ ْي ھ َريْ َرۃ قال قال َر ُس ْول الل ِہ َصلی الل ُہ َعل ْی ِه‬ َّ َ ْ ْ ً َ َ َ ّٰ َ َ ‫و َسلم َم ْن َسلك ط ِريقا يَل َت ِم ُس ِفی ِه عِ ل ًما َس ّهل الل ُہ‬ َ ْ َ ً َ َ ‫ل ُه ط ِريقا ِإلی الجَ ّن ِة‬ Hazrat Abu Hurairara narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Whoever takes a path upon which to obtain knowledge, Allah makes the path to Paradise easy for him.” (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Ilm ‘an Rasulillahsa, Hadith 2646)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Guidance of the Holy Quran for the perfection of knowledge and practice It ought to be remembered also that the Holy Quran gives guidance for the

perfection of knowledge and practice. َ ّ َ ۡ Accordingly, in the words ‫الص َراط‬ ِ ‫اِھ ِد نا‬ ۡ ‫“[ ال ُم ۡس َت ِق ۡی َم‬Guide us in the right path”], the perfection of one’s knowledge is alluded to, while the perfection of one’s action isَ indicated in the words َ َ َۡ ّ َ ‫“[ ِ� َراط ال ِذيۡ َن ان َع ۡمت َعل ۡیهِ ۡم‬The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings”]. In both instances, one seeks the most supreme and complete result that can be achieved. When a plant is put into the ground, it cannot flourish and bear fruits until it grows completely. Similarly, if a guidance is devoid of the finest and most superlative results, then such guidance is dead, and it possesses no strength or power to nourish and develop. For example, if after completely following the Vedas a person can never expect to attain everlasting deliverance and salvation, and if they cannot be freed from the process of becoming bugs and insects, to receive eternal pleasure, what use is such guidance? The Holy Quran, on the other hand, is such guidance which, if followed, enables a person to attain the highest levels of excellence. Such a one begins to develop a true relationship

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with God Almighty to the extent that their good deeds – performed in accordance with the guidance of the Quran – begin to flourish and bear fruits in the similitude of a pure tree, as described by the Holy Quran; and they develop a unique kind of sweetness and taste. Hence, if a person’s faith is bereft of the potential for growth and development, and if their faith is dead, what hope can there be that the pure trees of good deeds would ever bear fruit? It is for this very reason that in َ Surah Fatihah, where it states ‫ِ� َراط‬ َ َ ّ َ َۡ ‫ ال ِذيۡ َن ان َع ۡمت َعل ۡیهِ ۡم‬Allah the Exalted has specifically indicated that this path is not a fruitless path, which confounds a person, leaving them to wander aimlessly. In fact, if a person takes this path, they attain success and triumph. Perfection in practice is necessary for worship, otherwise it is nothing more than a pastime. For if a tree does not bear fruit, it serves no benefit, irrespective of how tall it may grow. (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 196-197)

Answers to everyday issues

project for the khidmat-e-khalq department. Huzooraa then gave the example of Lajna in the UK who were currently making a maternity hospital in West Africa. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa added that there was a larger number of Lajna members in Germany and encouraged that they should also start a similar project. Secretary tarbiyat for new converts was next to introduce her department. Huzooraa asked about the number of new Lajna converts, to which she replied that in the last three years, there were 97 new converts. She further reported that the new converts were offered reading circles each week. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then asked about the training of the new converts and stated: “[…] if the in-laws are good with regard to their religious matters and they are practicing Ahmadi Muslims, then obviously the nau mubai‘at will also receive better training. If their in-laws are not good, then it will not have a good effect on these nau mubai‘at. “Therefore, the secretary tarbiyat should also be in contact with those people who have daughters-in-law from among German nationals or among nau mubai‘at and ask them also to set a good example before them [the nau mubai‘at]. This is how you can also train. This should be a joint effort of both secretary nau mubai‘at and secretary tarbiyat.” Turning to secretary tarbiyat, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked about her duties and tasks; she responded that in this year, they were focusing on personal development. Whilst offering guidance, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa reiterated that a joint plan should be made with their department and secretary nau mubai‘at. He emphasised that two separate plans for tarbiyat should be made for Ahmadi girls and new converts. Huzooraa said: “[…] make a programme which is easy to understand for the nau mubai‘at and gradually get them involved.” Then, with regard to tarbiyat programmes, Huzooraa said: “At times, certain questions related to tarbiyat arise in the minds of the younger generation and not in the older generation. And they [the younger generation] have certain doubts or suspicions, or they require certain things clarified for additional knowledge – these should be answered according to their level and understanding.” Huzooraa emphasised that certain programmes should be made to answer such contemporary issues that arise in the minds of the younger generation. Huzoor further said: “Involve them [in programmes] as much as possible. Let it not be that our young Ahmadi girls become engulfed in this materialistic world and distance themselves from religion, which can then have a negative impact on the nau mubai‘at. All born Ahmadis or who have been Ahmadis for some time, have a role of looking after the new converts. With this in mind, you must make a programme and plan.” Addressing the assistant general secretary, Huzooraa asked how many majalis there were. Responding, the secretary Continued on next page >>

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

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said that there were 286 Lajna majalis in Germany. Following this, the secretary Nasirat, whilst presenting her report, said that there were 3,382 Nasirat in Germany. Hearing this, Huzooraa said, “Masha-Allah! You are very precise. Such care should be taken in their tarbiyat that when they enter Lajna Imaillah, they do not distance themselves from the Jamaat’s nizam and [in this way] are not swayed by the influences of society. They should be firmly attached to the Jamaat; keep tarbiyat-related aspects in mind.” Secretary san‘at-o-dastakari (industry and handicraft), whilst explaining her duties, reported that this year, due to the coronavirus, 150,000 masks were made to help prevent the spread of the virus. Hearing this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if the mask she was wearing at the time was among the ones she had made; she replied in the negative and explained that Germany had banned the use of fabric masks. Alluding to the coronavirus restrictions in Germany, Huzooraa asked and ensured that the meeting was in keeping with the government’s guidelines. Secretary isha‘at was next to present her report. Huzooraa asked, “What have you published?” The secretary replied that Khadija Magazine was being printed regularly. Huzooraa enquired if people read the magazine and further said to try and get feedback from others to see how they may further improve. With regard to printing books, Huzooraa added: “[…] you can also publish books about

the female Companionsra and other books relating to history [of Islam].” Speaking with secretary umur-e-talibat, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa asked how many students were attending universities, to which she replied that there were 830 university-going students. Huzooraa then emphasised the need for doctors and said that more people should be encouraged to become doctors. Addressing secretary sehat-e-jismani, Huzooraa asked how many Lajna members exercised and used cycles. Huzooraa was told 6,300 Lajna members participated in sports and did activities such as cycling, walking and yoga. Secretary Tahrik-e-Jadid reported on her department next. After hearing the report, Huzooraa said: “Masha-Allah! Lajna are contributing a lot.” Addressing secretary ziafat, Huzooraa asked what food was packed and prepared for Lajna members to take home, to which she said that pilau with seekh kebabs, salad, raita and carrot halwa was prepared. Whilst addressing muavina sadr 100 mosques project, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa asked if Lajna Germany was funding the construction of a mosque. The secretary replied in the affirmative and said that a mosque was being built solely through Lajna contributions. Hearing this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said, “Masha-Allah!” Speaking with secretary rishta nata, Huzooraa asked how many matches had been successfully made in the past five to six months. She replied that around 16 matches matured in the past five to six months. She further added that as women,

in general, were more educated and pursued further education in Germany – as opposed to men who, after completing the Abitur, begin a profession and start looking for work – many women desired to marry men who have also, like them, pursued higher education. To this, Huzooraa said, “You should tell Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya to encourage boys to pursue higher education.” Addressing the muavina sadr sami wa basri who is also serving in MTA, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said that they should make programmes for Lajna on MTA. Next, the waqifaat-e-nau department presented their report. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa emphasised that waqifaate-nau should be encouraged to become doctors as there was a need for doctors in the Jamaat. Sadr Sahiba then said that there were a few questions and matters they wished to seek Huzoor’saa guidance on. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa very graciously accepted this request. The first question asked was concerning new converts; when they enter the Jamaat, they are not aware of the rules of marriage such as nikah, mehr (dowry) etc. She asked Huzooraa about the best way to inform them of these things. Answering, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “If they are of the age of marriage, then you can suggest suitable matches to them if they have not already found somebody to get married to. Then tell them these are the Jamaat’s rules and regulations and the muavina sadr rishta nata should help them in this regard. Islam says that there should be haq mehr [dowry] and haq mehr

is according to the capacity of the man […] these are simple things. Your secretary rishta nata already knows; you can get in touch with secretary rishta nata. And while making the training course for their tarbiyat, you can also include this as part of their guidance.” Following this, a Lajna member stated that on 15 December 2022, Lajna Imaillah will see its 100th year since its establishment. She then proceeded to ask Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa what Lajna members in Germany should do to express their gratitude. Answering, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “You have already made a programme […] If you are able to accomplish the plan you already made, then it will be a great achievement.” Huzooraa added: “To commemorate 100 years [of Lajna Imaillah], the main thing is to get 100% of Lajna and Nasirat involved in Jamaat matters; practice the teachings of the Jamaat; 100% should be true worshippers of Allah Almighty; recite the Holy Quran and follow its commandments and have a strong bond with Jamaat. These are the basic things [to act upon].” Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa further said: “[…] if the majority, or even half, are not acting upon the basic teachings of Islam, then there is no use in commemorating the 100-year jubilee” With this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa conveyed salaam to all amila members and the meeting drew to a close. (Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

Virtual Quran seminar by Lajna Imaillah Ireland Shahzad Malik Ireland Correspondent

Naib Sadr Lajna Imaillah Ireland reports that Lajna Imaillah Ireland held its first virtual Quran seminar on 17 March 2021. The aim of the seminar was to educate members on the various topics related to the noble book of Allah and to inculcate its love in their hearts. The seminar was presided by Sadr Sahiba Lajna Imaillah Ireland, Sajida Aleem Sahiba. The programme began with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a hadith and a poem. A presentation on The Importance of Continued from page 1

Madeel Abdullah Sahib, Sadr Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya USA what they had planned next. Sadr Sahib said the Atfal wanted to ask Huzooraa questions, to which Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa granted permission. The first question was by Al-Amin Adewusi from Baltimore. He asked whether the amount of time someone spent in Hellfire would be equal to the number of sins a person had committed. Responding, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “Allah knows better. When you die, you cannot calculate your days according to our worldly days. Right? So, it all depends on Allah. Whenever Allah feels that a person’s punishment is enough for the sin they committed, then Allah will bring him out. “You should also remember that Allah’s mercy encompasses everything. So, even if Allah feels that He should forgive the person and bring him out of hell, He can even bring him out before he completes his punishment in Hell.” Another tifl asked what ways there were to have prayers accepted by Allah. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “You see, the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, told us the way – that when you are praying, you should first send durood: ّٰ َ َ َ َ َّ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ ُ َ ّ ‫اھ ْی َم َو‬ ‫الل ُھ َّم َص ِل َعلی محَ ّم ٍد َو َعلی‬ ِ ‫ٓال مح ّم ٍد ک َما صل ْیت علی اِبْ َر‬ ِ َ َ …‫اھ ْی َم‬ ِ ‫ٓال اِبْ َر‬ ِ ‫علی‬ upon the Holy Prophetsa […] And even in one hadith – tradition – it says that your prayers will remain suspended in the air if you do not recite durood with your prayer. So, the best way to get your prayers accepted by Allah the Almighty is that you say durood: ّٰ َ ْ ّٰ َ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ّٰ َ َ ْ ُ َ ُ َ ّ ‫ان الل ِہ ال َع ِظ ْی ِم الل ُھ َّم َص ِل َعلی محَ ّم ٍد َو‬ ‫سبحان الل ِہ و ِبحم ِد ِہ سبح‬ َ ُ ‫ٓال محَ ّم ٍد‬ ِ “Or the complete durood which we recite in the prayers, and then say the prayer […]” Roshaan Rashid asked why we recited Dua-e-Qunoot in witr prayer and why this prayer is called “witr”. Huzooraa said: “During the time of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him,

recitation of the Holy Quran and its etiquettes was presented by the National Secretary Tarbiyat, Nudrat Malik Sahiba. In her presentation, she presented various quotes from the writings of the Promised Massiahas and his Khulafa about the blessings of Talim-ul-Quran. The attendees of this seminar were informed about the schedule of nazirah (recitation) and translation classes which are being held by the Jamaat in Ireland and were encouraged to become part of this blessed learning. This was followed by a presentation on certain rules of the Quranic recitation, by Sehrish Zahoor Sahiba.

A virtual Quran exhibition was presented by the National Secretary Talim, Shaista Pender Sahiba, in which attendees were taken through the history of the revelation, compilation and standardisation of the Holy Quran. The venerable contributions of the Jamaat under the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa-e-Ahmadiyyat towards the safeguarding and dissemination of the Holy

Quran’s true teachings was also presented. In the last segment of the seminar, an informative quiz was conducted by the National General Secretary, Najia Malik Sahiba. This included several questions related to the presentations shown during the event as well as many interesting facts about the Holy Quran. The seminar concluded with silent prayer.

two incidents happened when quite a number of Muslims were brutally killed by the enemies. And not only were they killed, but they were deceived and were not very well prepared for the war. Almost 70 people were killed at a time and 10 people at another time. “Then, at that time, the Holy Prophetsa told the believers, ‘You should recite this Dua-e-Qunoot; this prayer is against the enemies.’ This is why we recite this Dua-eQunoot. Since then, it has been the tradition and the practice of Muslims that they recite Dua-e-Qunoot in the witr. “Witr means ‘odd number’. All of our nawafil are in even numbers and witr is the only nafal that is an odd number – that is why it is called witr, because of its being an odd number. “But also remember, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra view was that now, the conditions are not the same and even if we do not recite Dua-e-Qunoot in our Witr, it does not affect our prayers. But since it is a tradition, it is better that we recite it. But if we forget, then there is no sajdah-e-sahw for it. “You see, whenever you make any mistake in Salat, then after completing the Salat, you offer two sajdahs [prostrations], which are called sajdah-e-sahw – but if you forget Dua-e-Qunoot, it is not necessary to do those sajdahs.” Roshaan thanked Huzooraa for the answer and requested for prayers as he and his brother were memorising the Holy Quran. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked how much he had memorised to date, to which he said he had memorised the last three parts of the Quran. Huzooraa then prayed, “May Allah the Almighty give you wisdom and knowledge to remember the Holy Quran in full and increase your capabilities to memorise the Holy Quran.” Misbah-ud-Din, a Waqf-e-Nau tifl who is memorising the Holy Quran, asked Huzooraa how he could serve the Jamaat through his hifz (memorisation of the Holy Quran) and his waqf. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa responded by saying:

“Memorise the Quran. It is Allah’s word; memorising it increases mental capabilities and wisdom and knowledge also increases. For this reason, you should memorise the Quran and when you memorise it, learn its translation and meaning too […] “You see, when you memorise the Holy Quran, it increases your wisdom, provided you are memorising it for the sake of gaining the pleasure of Allah and for the sake of acquiring knowledge of Allah’s book. When you do it with these intentions, then where Allah will be pleased with you, He will increase your intellect too. And when your intellect increases – when you will increase your knowledge and wisdom – then you will be a useful asset for the Jamaat.” His second question was why the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa adhered to a special dress code – the sherwani and turban etc. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “The turban was a tradition during the time of the Promised Messiahas, so the Khulafa only wore the turban just to continue that tradition. There is no special significance in wearing a turban; only that the Promised Messiahas used to wear the turban, which is why the Khulafa also wore it. “And one thing you should also remember is that the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira never used sherwani – they used to wear a long coat. Only Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and then I wore the sherwani. So the sherwani is not a tradition, but it is a good way to dress when you are wearing shalwar – sherwani seems to be an appropriate dress that matches shalwar kameez. This is why we wear it.” Another tifl asked Huzooraa how he personally prayed during silent prayers. In response Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that the normal tradition is to recite Surah al-Fatihah first, then durood and then any prayer in your own language for that particular event. A tifl, Ibrahim, asked Huzooraa the best

answer to give to naturalists who believe in the Darwinian theory of evolution – that humans evolved from apes – when the Quran tells us otherwise. After asking the question, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked Ibrahim if his mother was “Maryam”, to which Ibrahim replied that she was. Huzooraa smiled and said, “This is why your question is very scholarly”. Huzooraa then said: “You see, this is not the only theory which is accepted nowadays by everyone. There are quite a number of scientists who believe that this Darwinian theory is not true. And it is not necessary that the evolution of human beings started from the monkey or a beetle – some people say it is from the beetle, some say the monkey, some say another insect. “A rather lengthy answer is required for this. If you have the capability of understanding the answer to this question, there is a chapter in the book, Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and there are quite a number of answers in Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra literature too. But you can read Revelation, Rationality […]; there is one chapter there that gives the correct answer, and it is quite a long answer; so from there, you will be able to understand it. Or you can ask your mother to explain it to you. “I want to make sure [you know] that this is not the only theory and all scientists do not believe in this theory – there is some opposition against this theory as well.” Muhammad Ahmad, a young tifl, asked Huzooraa what his favourite subject was in school. With a smile, Huzooraa remarked: “I was not a good student; I had no favourite subject. But you all must study; you cannot survive without studying.” Faiz Alam asked what practical steps should be taken so that one can develop love for Allah and His Prophetsa more than anything in the world. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “If you want to get your prayers accepted, you have to invoke durood on the Holy Prophetsa. And to gain the love of Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophetsa, you

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

must practice all the commandments given to you by Allah in the Holy Quran, which was revealed to the Holy Prophetsa. So, there are quite a number of commandments and injunctions in the Holy Quran; almost 700 or more. If you are practising all these things, then you will gain the love of Allah the Almighty […] “A very important thing is that you offer the five daily prayers regularly and devote your attention fully to Allah the Almighty. This is fundamental; that you offer the five daily prayers on time and your prayers should be very much with the intention of deep love for Allah the Almighty. “Then, you should read the Holy Quran daily and learn the commandments of Allah the Almighty which have been given in the Holy Quran and try to practice those commandments. So try to make your life according to the teachings of Islam – this is how you can attain the love of Allah the Almighty and the love of the Holy Prophetsa.” A young tifl, Hammad Chaudhry, asked why we were not allowed to do any Namaz at 12 pm. Huzooraa replied by saying: “This is what we were told by the Holy Prophetsa, that at noon, when the sun is at its zenith, you should not pray – this is the prohibited time. There are some other prohibited times as well; when the sun is rising, we are not allowed to pray, when the sun is setting, we are not allowed to pray; when it is noon and when the sun is directly over our heads, then we are not allowed to pray.” Huzooraa further described the timings for prayers that were given by the Holy Prophetsa. Huzooraa said one could offer Friday prayers when the sun is at its zenith, so this restriction is not for Friday prayers. Qasim Malik asked how Huzooraa was able to retain so much information and answer questions with great detail in the

constant question and answer sessions Huzooraa held. With a smile, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “You see, I learn quite a lot of things from you. When you ask a question, then it comes into my mind that ‘this should be the answer.’ And if you are reciting the Holy Quran regularly, there are quite a number of points which immediately come to your mind that ‘this [question] has been explained in the Holy Quran.’ Or if you read the hadith, then sometimes you will remember the hadith in respect of that particular subject and sometimes, the books of the Promised Messiahas also cover some of the subject matters which are under discussion during questions and answers. “And sometimes, when I feel I cannot answer the question fully and appropriately, then I try to learn more about that question. I don’t feel shy if a question is asked by a small child and I cannot answer it fully. Then I will go home and I try to read the book and find out the answer, and if possible, I will write back to the person, that ‘I answered your question, or I could not answer your question, and now this is the correct answer.’” Qasim then sought Huzoor’s permission to read out an English poem he and his mother had written about Huzooraa. After he read out the poem, Huzooraa said, “You are a good poet”. Huzooraa further said, “May Allah the Almighty bless you. Also try to be a practicing Ahmadi Muslim. Don’t only rely on words and don’t praise me only for the sake of praise, but also try to follow whatever I am saying.” Another tifl asked Huzooraa whether he had seen the tomb of Jesusas. Huzooraa said he hadn’t and in fact, had never been to Kashmir. A tifl asked Huzooraa where heaven was, to which Huzooraa said: “Allah the Almighty in the Holy Quran

has said this world holds Heaven and the Hereafter too. What is Heaven? When you do good works and please Allah, Allah the Almighty gives you its reward – the good works you do become your Heaven […] “Allah the Almighty in the Holy Quran has said that Heaven is spread across the skies and the earth. At this, the Companionsra said Heaven was spread across the skies and the earth, but then asked where Hell was. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Hell and Heaven are like day and night.’ “Those souls who have been rewarded and sent to Paradise by Allah the Almighty and Allah is happy with them, are in Paradise and that Paradise is everywhere. Even Allah the Almighty has written in the Holy Quran that this world is also a Paradise for a believer – although it is a prison for a believer, but it is a Paradise for a believer as well. Because if you do good deeds, you are in Paradise here, and after death, in the Hereafter [...] “Allah the Almighty knows better where He keeps your soul; we cannot actually clearly understand or particularly specify that this part of the sky is Heaven and this is Hell.” Another question to Huzooraa by a young tifl was what he could do to become a good Waqf-e-Nau. Huzooraa said: “You must offer the five daily prayers, read the Holy Quran daily, memorise as much as you can from the Holy Quran, do good deeds, be polite and gentle to your siblings and to your fellow classmates and schoolmates. I have already spoken on this issue in my sermon in Canada in 2016 – where I gave some points as to what the characteristics of a good Waqf-e-Nau are. So, you should read that and follow those instructions.” A tifl, Rahman Sajid, asked Huzooraa why the Holy Prophetsa said no to the angel when the angel said it could throw a

mountain over those who persecuted the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa responded by saying: “The Holy Prophetsa replied to those people, ‘It is my hope that if these people do not accept me, the progeny of these people will accept me.’ And that was his mercy because Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Quran that he is a mercy for the whole of mankind. Those people who are against Islam say that Islam is a cruel religion, but this shows that even those who treated him brutally and injured him, even then, he did not try to seek revenge – this shows how wide his mercy was and how merciful he was. “The second thing is that he said to the angels, ‘Wait! If these people do not accept me, their progeny will accept me.’ And this was a prophecy also and that came true – after the Victory of Mecca, those people accepted Islam. Now you can see the progeny of those people are Muslims. So that was the purpose of not destroying those people.” Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa then spoke to Madeel Abdullah Sahib, Sadr Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya USA. Sadr Sahib thanked Huzooraa and requested for prayers, to which Huzooraa prayed. Huzooraa asked Sadr Sahib why the questions asked were only from Atfal aged 10-12 (apart from one) and the older group – the 14-15 age group – of Atfal did not ask questions. Huzooraa asked whether they were told not to ask questions. Sadr Sahib said there were no such instructions. Huzooraa said, “Those who have questions, but could not ask, can write their questions to me and I will try to answer them.” With this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa prayed for everyone and conveyed his salaam, before the meeting came to a close. (Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

Arrival of electric train en Qadian: A new milestone Awwab Saad Hayat Al Hakam A famous Indian Urdu newspaper, Hind Samachar of Chandigarh published a news report in its 26 March 2021 issue (p. 5), titled “Electric engine arrives in Qadian for the first time”. Below are the words of this interesting and faith-inspiring news: “Qadian, 25 March (Zeeshan Dehlavi) “This is a historic day in Qadian, where the electric engine arrived for the first time ever. Upon the completion of a several-months long project for an electric line between Batala and Qadian, today, a successful trial of an electric engine was held on this railway line. “This trial was held under the supervision of the Commissioner of Railway Safety, Shailesh Kumar Pathak CCRS. On this occasion, many railway officers were present. “The Qadian Railway Station Master, Parveen Yadav said that the electric system was being installed between Amritsar, Batala and Qadian. Under this [project], today a trial was held by a team of senior railway officers. “Today, a full train reached Qadian boarding the officers for this trial. At approximately 2:30pm, they started the journey from Batala. Today’s trial was successful. It is hoped that following relaxations from Covid-19, after April, whenever a train will go to Qadian, it will be an electric train instead of a diesel one. Many local residents too had gathered to witness this trial.” After reading this news, attention was suddenly drawn to a divine dream of the Promised Messiahas, dated 14 April 1905: “I saw in a dream that I was riding a vehicle like a railway train through the bazaar in Qadian [...]” (Tadhkirah [English], p. 735) The prophecy of the Promised Messiahas about the arrival of a railway train in Qadian is a famous prophecy. Many companions had directly heard it from the Promised Messiahas. Huzooras had even told them that the railway line would reach Qadian through the areas of Nawan Pind and Basrawan. There are such narrations by the companions, for instance in Tadhkirah, some narrations are mentioned from Register Riwayat: “A. Mirza Qudratullah of Mohalla Chabak Sawaran, Lahore narrated: “Probably in 1902, the Promised Messiahas went out for his morning walk […] When we arrived near the village known as Nawan Pind […] Khalifah Rajab-ud-Din told me: ‘[…] The Promised Messiahas has made a mark on the ground with his staff

where the railway line will pass.’ The words uttered by the beloved Messiahas of God Almighty were fulfilled many years later. [Register Riwayat-e-Sahabah, Vol. 4, p. 177] “B. The Promised Messiahas said: The Railway line would also be extended up to here [Qadian]. [Register Riwayat-e-Sahabah, Vol. 5, p. 81, Riwayat Shah Muhammad of Qadian; Register Riwayat-e-Sahabah, Vol. 6, p. 7, Riwayat Nath-thu Khan of Qadian] “C. (The poor condition of the road from Batala to Qadian having been mentioned), the Promised Messiahas said: ‘Be patient, the time will come when this place [Qadian] will be connected with the railway.’ [Register Riwayat-e-Sahabah, Vol. 10, p. 212, Riwayat Sardar Begum wife of Chaudhry Muhammad Husain Talwandi Inayat Khan]” (Tadhkirah [English], pp. 1075-1076) Pondering upon the magnificence of these prophecies and their fulfilment in unprecedented circumstances, we find that when the Promised Messiahas, after being permitted by Allah, presented his claimed of ma‘muriyyat (divine appointment), Qadian was a small and unknown town. At that time, it is estimated that Qadian’s population was no more than 2,000 people. Most of its houses would look barren and one had to go outside [of Qadian] for buying the smallest of the things. Similarly, the town of Qadian was deprived of telegrams and the railway; it was completely disconnected from the world. Qadian’s [nearest] railway station was Batala, which is at a distance of 12 miles to the south of Qadian. There was a dirt road between Qadian and Batala, on which not only the pedestrians would get tired, but the travelers using a yakka too had to face many problems. In His revelation, by using the words َ َّ ‫یق‬ ‫م‬ ٍ ِ ‫ف ٍج ع‬, Allah the Almighty had Himself explained in detail the situation of these routes during rainy days and floods, the lack of means of transportation, poor conditions of roads and other related problems. The road from Batala to Qadian was in a bad condition and there was no arrangement to repair it. The date of arrival of the first train to Qadian is very interesting and faithinspiring. Under a special decree, all the stages were completed and thus, on 19 December 1928, the first train reached the railway station of Qadian. On that day, many Ahmadis of Qadian gathered at the Amritsar railway station to witness the fulfilment of this prophecy, where Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was also present with his companions, so that on the occasion of the inauguration of the first rail train to Qadian, they could raise their hands in supplication before God, Who sent

this invention (which had been termed as the “donkey of the Anti-Christ” in previous scriptures) to Qadian for the service of the Promised Messiahas and his servants. On this occasion, the carriage was decorated with large red-coloured banners, which included the following text: َ ُّ َ ّٰ َ ّٰ َ ََ َ ْ َ َ ََ ‫الا ا ِّن َر ْو َح الل ِہ ق ِریْ ٌب۔ الا ا ِّن ن ْص َر الل ِه ق ِريْ ٌب۔ يَاتِ ْيك ِم ْن ك ِل ف ٍ ّج‬ ُْ َ َ َ ُّ ‫ع ِم ْي ٍق۔ يَات ْو َن ِم ْن ك ِل ف ٍ ّج ع ِم ْي ٍق‬ ُ ُّ َ َ ْ َ ّ ُ ُ َ ْ َ َ ُ ْ ‫النف ْو ُس ز ِّو َجت‬ ‫واِذاال ِعشار ع ِطلت۔ واِذا‬ ‫�ی یمرے رب ےس یمرے ےئل اِک وگاہ ےہ‬ ‫ِدوعی ہپ رہُمِ اِہٰل ےہ‬ ٰ ‫�ی یمرے دصق‬ “Hearken, the mercy of Allah is near. Hearken, the help of Allah is near. His help will come to you from every distant track. People will come to help you from every distant track. And when the she-camels, ten-month pregnant, are abandoned. And when people are brought together. This is a testimony from my Lord; this is divine authentication on the truth of my claim.” This special caravan left from Amritsar on time and along the way, more people

boarded the train. People from Batala and Wadala Garnathian also somehow boarded, where many Ahmadi men and women were gathered in the surroundings. At long last, the carriage reached the Qadian railway station on time at 6 pm, where a huge crowd of men, women and children waited anxiously on and around the big platform. The station was decorated with small flags and flowers and there was a huge rush, similar to what is found at major stations. The atmosphere continued to echo with slogans of “Allahu Akbar” and “Ghulam Ahmad ki jay”. A strange glory was being witnessed. During the same days in the previous year, no one would have thought that there would ever be such an atmosphere. But God Almighty created such means in such a short period that literally painted a new picture. All praise belongs to Allah! The travelers of this railway journey included Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra and his family, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

ngine in and his family, Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmadra and some children of the family of the Promised Messiahas. Moreover, Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Abdullah Khanra, Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira, Hazrat Maulvi Syed Sarwar Shahra, Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira (Editor Al Hakam), Hazrat Mir Qasim Alira (Editor Faruq), Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Mughnira (Nazir Bait-ul-Mal), Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Dardra MA and some other prominent local elders were also on board that train. At the Amritsar station, many people presented fruit baskets to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, which he distributed in the train during the journey. The name of the train’s guard was Babu Wali Muhammad Sahib and the driver was Babu Umar Din Sahib. The train travelled at a speed of 25 miles per hour from Amritsar to Batala, and then 15 miles per hour from Batala to Qadian. The train included five carriages: three single cars and two breakdown carriages. The engine was ST Class and of 709 number. From the farthest distance, the first ticket was bought for Nowshera Chauni [cantonment] to Qadian by Sheikh Ahmadullah Sahib, Head Cleric Cantonment Board Nowshera, and his niece, Zubaida Khatun Sahiba. This train returned at 6:30 pm, in which Ahmadis from Batala, Amritsar and Lahore travelled back to their homes. At that time, an opponent of Ahmadiyyat, Maulvi Sanaullah Amritsari published an announcement and distributed it at the Amritsar railway station. Moreover, at the same occasion, Hazrat Dr Hashmatullahra prepared a four-page tract and distributed it at the Amritsar railway station too. Meanwhile, another Ahmadi distributed a poetic tract in Punjabi. It should be remembered that seemingly, there was no such means for the fulfilment of this divine news; instead, despite the struggle for many years of requesting the repair of the broken road between Qadian and Batala, the government did not pay heed and refused to repair it. Other roads, however, were being repaired often, but the Qadian-Batala road never had this facility. There was no hope that a railway line to Qadian would be achieved so soon. But God acted in such a way that without any effort on the Jamaat’s part, it suddenly came to light that the railway board had a proposed railway line between Batala and Beas [river]. It initially turned out that according to the relevant officials of the railway department, this railway project could not be completed until 1930. But as the time had come in the sight of God for the centre of Ahmadiyyat – Qadian – to be joined with the whole country through a railway line, the railway board approved

that the railway be beneficial and a source of blessings for the Jamaat and the markaz of the Jamaat and all should give sadaqaat (alms). Accordingly, prayers were said in mosques of Qadian and sadaqaat were distributed among the impoverished. On 16 November 1928, the railway line reached Qadian railway station as the Jumuah prayer was being offered. After the Jumuah prayer, men, women and children started gathering at the railway station and a throng of nearly 2,000-2,500 people gathered. Sweets were distributed among the labourers and employees of the railway after the work was finished, which was arranged from the local chanda. Now, the construction of a station and the completion of the railway line Outline of an earlier proposed railway track, including Qadian | remained, which Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat Vol.5, p. 119 was completed by working day the Qadian-Butari railway in 1927, and and night. Th e fi rst ever station master of in the beginning of 1927 the information Qadian was Master Babu Faqir Ali Sahib department of the Punjab government and the name of the station was suggested announced officially that the railway board to be “Qadian Mughlan”. had approved the construction of a 42Earlier, it was decided to continue mile long railway line of five feet, six inches the line to Butari, but when the line had [wide], between Batala and Butari, under not yet reached Qadian’s territory, the the administration of the North Western railway officials postponed the decision of Railway. constructing the line further from Qadian to This project would be called the BatalaButari. Not only was that part (from Qadian Butari project. Moreover, the Government to Butari) postponed, but the already Gazette published an announcement that constructed parts of the line between this the survey had been finished and the work route, were removed. for putting the line would soon start. It is evident from these circumstances Practically, this project was initiated that this line was especially constructed all of a sudden and after hard work of for Qadian by Allah Himself. Munshi many days and many nights, at last, on 14 Muhammad Din Sahib (father of Sheikh November 1928, the railway line reached Mubarak Ahmad Sahib, Missionary East Qadian’s territory. Africa, the UK and USA), former attorney, That day, a public holiday was states that when the railway line was announced in schools and offices in Qadian constructed, the relevant European railway and people would go in many numbers to offi cer was given a special dinner at the see the railway line. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih house of Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Ali ra II stated that upon the opening of new ra , who also invited the survey staff and Khan avenues, there were many potential threats too, so the Jamaat members should pray many prominent members of the Jamaat as well. At that occasion, that European officer

expressed that a force overtook him, which was not enabling him to sit calmly. He said that he felt compelled to complete the line as soon as possible. In the fifth volume of Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, under the incidents of the 15th year of the Second Khilafat, many faith-inspiring incidents and Allah’s special favours during the construction of the railway line to Qadian have been mentioned. It should be remembered that the Promised Messiahas, in his book, Tohfa-eGolarhviyyah has mentioned the means for helping the mission of the victory of Islam and its spread. Huzooras said that for the completion of the spread of Islam, such means of transport were now available that were incomparable. He said: “So, at this time, according to the verse:

َ ُ ْ َ ْ ‫َو ٰا� ِ�ﻳْ َﻦ ِﻣﻨ ُﻬ ْﻢ ﻟ َ ّﻤﺎ ﻳَﻠ َﺤﻘﻮْ ِاﺑ ِﻬ ْﻢ‬

“and in accordance with the verse:

ُ ّٰ ّ ُ َّ َ ُّ َ � ْ ُ ‫ﺎس ِاﻧِ ْﻰ َر ُﺳﻮْ ُل ا�� ِ� ِاﻟ َ ْﻴﻜ ْﻢ َﺟ ِﻤ ْﻴ ًﻌﺎ‬ ‫ﻗﻞ ﻳﺎﻳﻬﺎ اﻟﻨ‬

“the second coming of the Holy Prophetsa is needed, and all these servants – the railway, the telegram, steamboats, the press, a decent postal system and the knowledge of the common languages, especially the Urdu language in India, which has become a common language between the Muslims and Hindus – unanimously beseech the Holy Prophetsa that: “‘We are all ready to serve and are wholeheartedly and fervently active for fulfilling the duty of publications. You [the Holy Prophetsa] may come now and fulfil your duty, as it is your claim that you have come for the whole mankind. “‘Now is the time when you can preach the Quran to all nations who are living in this world, and can make the publication reach its peak, and for completing the final argument, you can spread the arguments of the truthfulness of the Quran to all peoples.’ “Then, the spirituality of the Holy Prophetsa responded, ‘See, I am coming as a reflection (burooz), but I will come in India because the passion of religions, the presence of many religions, competition of all groups and types of people and peace and freedom is in this place.’” (Tohfa-e-Golarhviyyah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 17, pp. 260-263)

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

“The imam is a shield” Huzoor’s warning about Fortnite

Ataul Fatir Tahir Al Hakam

The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: َُ َ ٌ َ ُ َ َ َّ ‫الإم‬ ‫ام ُج ّنة يُقاتل ِم ْن َو َرائِ ِه‬ ِ ‫ِإنما‬ “The imam is a shield, behind whom [believers] fight”. (Sunan al-Nasai) For Ahmadi Muslims, this hadith serves as a stark reminder that all our actions and the direction of our spiritual battle – both internal and external – are to come from Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya. We follow the lead of our Khalifa and stay behind his shield – our wellbeing lies within this. To an outsider – whether non-religious or even religious – such obedience and trust for one person are often labelled as naïve blind faith, insanity or even cultlike behaviour. But those who have never experienced the sweetness of a spring can never comprehend its sweet and delightful taste. Ahmadis follow the way of the Companionsra, who strictly followed the Quranic injunction of “We hear, and we obey” – and they experience its benefits time and time again. Experience proves that Allah’s support is with the leadership of Khilafat. Often, when Khilafat has warned of a social vice through one aspect, over time, other dangers also surface. A recent example of the benefits of fighting behind the imam and following his command is the news of the game Fortnite being used by drug dealers to groom children as “drug mules”. (www. thetimes.co.uk/article/dealers-are-usingfortnite-treats-to-groom-children-as-drugmules-pq7rkftv2) Fortnite – an online game predominately

played by children – was a game Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa warned of in clear terms years ago. Fortnite had gathered 350 million users as of May 2020. It prompts its players (mostly children) to buy v-bucks, a virtual currency to acquire in-game upgrades, in exchange for real money. The Times (UK) recently reported: “Criminals are using the video game Fortnite to groom children as young as 12 to become drug mules, youth workers have warned. “The game’s virtual currency, v-bucks, is offered to children who want to buy extras for the game, such as costumes and dance moves for their characters, but cannot afford to do so. “After the child is used to receiving v-bucks, the drug dealers ask for something in return. They arrange to meet in person and often ask the child to store drugs in their bedroom or deliver them to customers. “Matthew Norford, 38, who works with young people at risk of criminal exploitation in Manchester through his scheme 1Message, says many children, mainly aged 12 or 13, had been approached by older people […]”. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa had specifically said Ahmadis should not be playing this game due to, for example, its purchasing and buying aspect. Letters were sent out by jamaats and auxiliary organisations, warning parents of Fortnite and the fresh instructions from Huzooraa. In his Friday Sermon of 4 January 2019 (two years after Fortnite was created) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said: “Nowadays, a game called Fortnite is being played regularly amongst the youth in

which their money is going to waste. Parents as well as the auxiliary organisations such as Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Atfal-ulAhmadiyya in particular must protect them from getting involved in it because one step leads to another and they will eventually get hold of bank cards and spend money on it. “In fact, a few days ago an article was published in which a survey was quoted showing that there are certain groups which get in contact with the youth and having incited them into using bank cards, they gain access to the bank accounts of their parents. Only sometime later do the parents realise that money is missing from their bank account. “This is as a result of this game which is becoming a drug-like addiction amongst the youth, where not only is their time being wasted and dangerous thoughts are creeping into their minds, but on top of that some of their parents have even suffered a great deal. Hence, one must avoid this and instead, instil the habit of spending in the way of Allah among children, which He

draws our attention to, especially to schemes such as Waqf-e-Jadid.” (www.alhakam.org/ financial-sacrifice-waqf-e-jadid-2019/) In the same year, advising over 100 Atfal from Germany who had come to visit their Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said: “There are also decent things on the Internet and social media. There is MTA, speeches, dars of the Holy Quran, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV’srh question and answer sessions, speeches of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra, books, my addresses etc. – you should listen to these. Why does one need to watch pornography, immodest images or play games like Fortnite that waste money? Use the Internet in the proper way and you will have the opportunity to do good.” (www.alhakam.org/over-100-atfal-travel-tomarkaz-for-audience-with-huzoor/) A member of Majlis Ansarullah Norway, referring to the Friday Sermon in which Huzooraa mentioned the dangers of playing Fortnite, asked Huzooraa regarding the game and requested for some more guidance on the matter. Huzooraa said: “I have already talked about this and after doing so, I have received letters from people around the world who have said that they have stopped playing […] When children become addicted to the game, they are forced to spend money to enter the next stage and this has, in many cases, resulted in emptying the bank accounts of their parents.” (www.alhakam.org/norwayansar-national-amila-mulaqat-with-hazratkhalifatul-masih/) Latest reports talk of drug dealers successfully preying on children through the financial side of Fortnite. Scores of Ahmadi youth who left Fortnite were saved from the very real possibility of being groomed by drug dealers and the parents who listened to Huzoor’s instruction, protected their own children from being preyed on. Yes, the numbers may be low but the possibility is real enough for any parent to worry about. This is just another aspect of the dangers of Fortnite from which Ahmadi youth have been saved, by listening to their Imam. Yet again, the Holy Prophet’ssa instruction that the imam is the shield behind whom believers fight, has proven true.

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

The privilege of meeting Huzoor: Germany’s Lajna amila express delight following successful mulaqat

Lubna Saqib Assistant General Secretary, Lajna Imaillah Germany

Members of the national amila of Lajna Imaillah Germany were granted the blessed opportunity of a virtual mulaqat with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa on 27 March 2021. The amila members gathered in Bait-us-Sabuh, the headquarters of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany in Frankfurt. Huzooraa most graciously granted more than one hour of his precious time and all the amila members had the opportunity to seek guidance from beloved Huzooraa regarding their respective departments, alhamdulillah. When the good news of being granted a virtual mulaqat was received, there were many mixed emotions. There was an overwhelming joy about being bestowed this blessed and unique opportunity, but also a great awareness of responsibility and feeling of humility regarding our humble efforts. In preparation for the mulaqat, special attention was given to prayers, nawafil and sadaqaat. Finally, the blessed day arrived, which everybody was eagerly waiting for. The moment we saw Huzooraa on the screen, we instantly felt the love and blessings filling the room. Huzooraa most lovingly spoke to all amila members and granted precious guidance on various matters, alhamdulillah. Below are some impressions of amila members following this blessed audience: Amatul Jameel Ghazala, Naib Sadr and

National Secretary Taleem, said: “Prior to the mulaqat […] I tried to do as much tasbih-o-tahmid, durood sharif and istighfar as possible. Beloved Huzooraa guided us in such a light and loving way, so affectionately and gently, that all worries and anxiety were blown away. It seemed as if all of us were under a spell. This was the magnificent aura of Khilafat which addressed us. “May Allah enable us to fulfil our responsibilities according to the desires of beloved Huzooraa. Amin.” Zubaria Ahmad, Naib Sadr and National Secretary Tabligh, said: “When it was my turn [to speak] I forgot everything I had prepared. There was only the feeling of being present in the aura of Khalifa-e-Waqt. I had thought of seeking guidance regarding how to increase the number of dai‘at ilallah, but standing in front of Huzooraa, I forgot everything I had planned. “Huzooraa himself asked about the number of Lajna members doing active tabligh. When I presented the figure (about 3000 members) Huzooraa remarked that the number was little and granted guidance about increasing it. I will never forget this beautiful incident, that the point I was not able to present was addressed by Huzooraa himself and he granted us new motivation and encouragement. May Allah the Almighty enable us. Amin.” Shamim Mustaqeem, Muawina Sadr for Wasaya, said: “Alhamdulillah. When the message of virtual mulaqat with beloved Huzooraa was received, I turned to nawafil and sadaqaat. Finally, by the grace of Allah, the day

arrived where we had the opportunity of directly meeting Huzooraa. After a long time, God granted us this day and the sentiments of our hearts were totally different; each moment seemed so long, but then suddenly, the moment arrived when beloved Huzooraa appeared among us and all worries were gone; all faces were enlightened and all hearts felt peace. Huzooraa distributed spiritual nourishment and we had our fill.” Huma Noor-ul-Huda Shah Khan, Secretary San‘at-o-Dastakari, said: “Prior to the mulaqat, there were feelings of joy that I am fortunate to be granted these blessed moments. And today, alhamdulillah, only by the grace of Allah, we were granted such beautiful moments. We sat in the blessed company of Huzooraa and witnessed Huzoor’s love and how he so lovingly asked questions – it was so wonderful. Alhamdulillah. “I am very happy and cannot express it in words. May Allah the Almighty enable us to walk the path of His contentment. Amin.” Fazeelat Sultana, Muawina Sadr for 100 mosques scheme, said: “Today my heart is very much in peace and so joyful because today, I had the opportunity of virtually meeting my beloved Huzooraa. During the last weeks, watching This Week With Huzoor [on MTA] I envied how fortunate all those who were being granted the opportunity to receive Huzoor’s love and affection were. “Alhamdulillah, today, we also had this blessed opportunity. The loving and affectionate way of Huzooraa cannot be expressed in words. Huzooraa said that if we fulfil our Jubilee mosques’ project, that would be a great achievement. I pray that we may attain this achievement. Amin.” Rubina Ahmad, Muawina Sadr for Rishta Nata, said: “Alhamdulillah, we cannot thank Allah enough – today was our virtual mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and it was so wonderful, by the grace of Allah. It is Allah’s blessing that we saw Huzooraa directly and spoke to him. It was such a loving atmosphere and as we were sitting there, it felt as though angels had spread their wings and it was a special atmosphere. Huzooraa granted us precious advice and guidance for the different departments. I am very grateful to Allah that He granted me this opportunity.” Wasima Hani, Assistant General Secretary, said: “It is indeed a great blessing to be granted even only the possibility to

say salaam to Huzooraa. May Allah the Almighty enable us to fulfil our responsibilities according to the desires of beloved Huzooraa. Amin. “This was my first mulaqat as an amila member. I was very afraid about what Huzooraa might ask. But contrary to my expectations, Huzooraa was more affectionate than any loving father and granted us guidance ever so graciously. I am very fortunate to have been granted this opportunity, alhamdulillah. It seems like a dream.” Maryam Ghaffar, National Secretary Tarbiyat, said: “I am grateful that I could directly see Huzooraa after a long time, alhamdulillah. It was a very wonderful mulaqat. Beloved Huzooraa spoke to us in a very loving and affectionate way. I was praying so much that Huzooraa may not ask me any question but himself provide blessed guidance regarding my department. Alhamdulillah, my prayers were accepted and it happened just that way. Now we have to make every effort to implement the instructions of Huzoor-e-Aqdasaa immediately, inshaAllah” Atia Nuur Ahmad-Hübsch, Sadr Lajna Imaillah Germany, said: “Alhamdulillah, thumma alhamdulillah. It is indeed the grace of Allah the Almighty that we, humble servants, have been bestowed these blessed moments that beloved Huzooraa granted us a virtual mulaqat. When we received the news that beloved Huzooraa had graciously approved our request, our hearts were overwhelmed with praise for Allah the Almighty. But at the same moment, attention was also drawn towards istighfar and thinking about how we could appear before Huzooraa with our humble efforts. So all of us turned towards prayers, nawafil and sadaqaat more intensively and we all prayed continuously that Allah the Almighty may conceal our shortcomings and enable us to fulfil our responsibilities in the best manner. “The closer the day of the mulaqat drew, mixed emotions of anxiety and joy filled our hearts more and more. Finally, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, we experienced blessed moments and we met Huzooraa who showed us love and affection. “All amila members got the chance to talk directly to Huzooraa and received precious advice and blessed guidance, alhamdulillah. “We are all very grateful to Huzooraa that he graciously granted us so much of his precious time and gave us instructions. Huzooraa especially emphasised the need to establish personal contacts with all Lajna members and Nasirat in order to keep them connected to their faith and to the Jamaat and save them from worldly influences. By the grace of Allah, so much motivation and enthusiasm has been gained and a new spirit has awoken that we have to make sincere and utmost efforts to strive to fulfil the expectations of our beloved Huzooraa. “May Allah the Almighty enable us to do so and may we always be granted the blessings of Khilafat. Amin.”

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History 2 - 8 April In the fourth year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed era of the Third Khalifa, Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh (1965-1982) 4 April 1970: On this date, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III’srh tour of Europe and West Africa began. During this tour, Huzoorrh addressed 10 press conferences, attended 12 receptions, inaugurated ﬁve mosques, laid the foundation stone of four mosques, met with the heads of six countries, addressed more than a thousand intellectuals at two universities, inaugurated a mission house and laid the foundation stone of one mission house. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh delivered nine Friday Sermons during this tour. He gave many interviews to radio and television stations and met with thousands of Africans. This tour lasted until 8 June. 4 April 1977: The Ahmadiyya Mission was established in Newala Province, Tanzania. 4 April 1979: On this date, former Prime Minister, Zulﬁqar Ali Bhutto, was hanged in Rawalpindi jail at the age of 52 after being charged with murder. 4 April 1979: Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Nigeria’s 7th Annual Ijtema, which lasted two days, was attended by a thousand people. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh delivering a Friday sermon at the opening of Nusrat Jahan Mosque, Copenhagen, Denmark.

3 April 1969: Hazrat Mirza Salamullahra, son of Hazrat Mirza Ghulamullahra of Qadian, passed away. He was the eyewitness of the divine sign shown in regard to the staff of the Arya Samaj’s newspaper, Shubh Chintak, in April 1907. ra Hazrat Mirza Salamullah

The Arya Samaj of Qadian, when witnessing the Jamaat’s progress, made many attempts to disrespect and malign the Jamaat and Hazrat Ahmadas. They

started a newspaper in Qadian named Shubh Chintak. The editor of this paper was a person named Somraj. This newspaper used to publish abusive and disrespectful remarks about the Promised Messiahas. On one occasion, they claimed that the Promised Messiahas had never shown any sign in his favour and challenged him in this regard. The editor claimed, in front of Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira, that he (the editor of Shubh Chintak), just like the Promised Messiahas, would never die from the plague. Later, the editor and his family died due to the plague. The team and staff members of Shubh Chintak also died one after the other due to their enmity,

vices and challenges against a Prophetas of Allah. It is important to note that while his team and staff were dying one after the other, the editor became perturbed and asked an Ahmadi, Maulvi Ubaidullah Bismil Sahib, to treat him. Maulvi Sahib asked Huzooras what he should do in this regard. Huzooras replied that service to humanity demanded that he be treated; however, Huzooras said that he would not survive even if he was treated. 3 April 1981: On this date, the 62nd Majlis-e-Shura was held which lasted for three days. More than 600 delegates attended.

4 April 1980: The Gambia held its 6th Jalsa Salana. On 5 April, Lajna Imaillah held a separate Jalsa in which 75 women participated. 5 April 1968: On this date, the Jamaat’s Majlis-e-Shura was held, which lasted until 7 April. 5 April 1979: On this date, an Ahmadi, Maulvi Noor Ahmad Sahib, was martyred in Indian Kashmir. 6 April 1967: Fazl-e-Umar Foundation announced a prize of 5,000 rupees for position-holders in an academic writing competition. It was one of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra desires that such academic books and articles should be written on various research topics expounding the teachings of Islam.

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

Opinion

How self-help trends echo lessons from Salat Amir Masood Ahmad Canada

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh proceeding to a reception hosted in his honour. On Huzoor’s right is Mr FM Singateh (Governor General of The Gambia). The Gambia, 2 May 1970

With all the current rave on meditation, breath work and yoga, I thought it would be interesting to present an Islamic perspective. After taking a plethora of self-help and self-development courses and training throughout the years, I have found many of these things to be extremely beneficial. After some reflection, I came to the realisation that I had already implemented many of these practices for a long time, inadvertently. These and many other benefits are achieved in observing the Islamic act of worship; the daily Salat. The whole experience permeates a number of positive benefits. The pre-prayer ritual of wuzu, physical cleaning of oneself through ablution, revitalises me as I make myself presentable for communion with the Omnipotent, Supreme Being. When I run my wet hands across the back of my neck, a refreshing alertness kicks in releasing me from any fatigue or restlessness being experienced at the time.

Mr Mustafa Sanusi, Deputy Chief Minister of Sierra Leone with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh

In those days, an announcement was published in Al Fazl which stated that some areas in Pakistan had seen a rise and spread of contagious epidemics such as cerebrospinal fever and smallpox.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh during his tour of Ghana

Everyone was informed about the risks of travelling from one location to another. They were told to take care in this matter and not to move from one location to another unnecessarily.

7 April 1967: The 48th Majlis-e-Shura was held. It lasted for three days and was presided by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh.

Moreover, all were made aware that in this situation, it was appropriate to avoid shaking hands with one another and were told to wear a piece of cloth over their face to prevent its spread.

It was the ﬁrst time that it took place in Aiwan-e-Mahmood Hall, which was, at the time, still under construction. Before this, for many years, the shuras were held in Talim-ul-Islam college.

8 April 1977: A four-day Holy Quran exhibition was organised by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Nigeria.

Just as the ablution is physical cleansing, the actual prayer is spiritual cleansing. Hazrat Abu Hurairahra relates that he heard the Holy Prophetsa say, “Tell me, if one of you had a stream running at his door and he should take a bath in it five times every day, would any dirt be left on him?” He was answered, “No dirt would be left on him”. The Holy Prophetsa observed, “This is the case of the five Prayers. Allah wipes out all faults in consequence of them.” (Bukhari and Muslim) When my feet hit the prayer mat and I make my intention, I drift into a heightened state of consciousness which allows me to be mindful of the presence of the Lord, Who is the ultimate Judge and Jury. The AllSeeing, the All-Hearing, the One Who has the power to forgive my every shortcoming, answer my prayers and make all my desires come true with a simple “Be! And it is”. My breathing is controlled and every worry, thought and worldly distress has been pushed to some corner of my being and my

mind is in full focus. “Alhamdulillahi RabbilAlamin.” – “All praise belong to Allah Lord of all the worlds.” In his book, Code of the Extraordinary Mind, Vishen Lakhiani, CEO of the world’s leading self-development platform Mindvalley, in the chapter titled “The Power of Gratitude,” writes: “Perhaps no single exercise leads to as big a happiness boost as the practice of gratitude. So much so that gratitude is getting significant notice in research and scientific circles. The list of scientifically prove benefits for the practice of gratitude includes: • More energy • More forgiving attitudes • Less depression • Less anxiousness • More feelings of being socially connected • Better sleep • Fewer headaches”. Surah al-Fatihah, recited in prayers by Muslims, dozens of times throughout the day, is so much more than a simple gratitude statement. The Promised Messiahas teaches us: “Allah commenced His Book with hamd [glorification] and not with shukr [gratitude] or madh [praise] for hamd comprises the sense of the other two and is their substitute par excellence, in that it also comprehends correction, adornment and beautification.” He further states, “Hamd is verbal praise which is offered to honour a mighty and noble being of His acts of beneficence.” (www. Continued on next page >>

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

USA Atfal recall virtual mulaqat Madeel Abdullah Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA

On 11 February 2021, Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya USA received news that Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa had graciously accepted our request for a virtual mulaqat to take place on 28 March 2021, at USA Headquarters, Bait-ur-Rehman Mosque in Silver Spring, Maryland. This mulaqat was approved for Atfal living within driving distance of Jamaat USA’s headquarters. Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya USA started preparations and decided to select Atfal from four regions (East, New York, Maryland, Virginia) adjacent to Headquarters. This included majalis from the US states of Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Nearly 200 Atfal applied for a chance to attend this virtual mulaqat with beloved Huzooraa, of which 60 Atfal were selected. Due to Covid-19 safety protocols, neither Atfal, nor the administration could gather at the headquarters for any preparation or

rehearsal. Therefore, we utilised technology and conducted sessions with parents and volunteers via Zoom meetings. We benefited by watching recordings of other such mulaqats held with majalis of Canada, Australia and Germany. For the presenters, a technical rehearsal was held at the USA headquarters, a week prior to the virtual mulaqat. The programme started at 12:35 pm EST, with a recitation from the Holy Quran. After the initial programme, Huzooraa graciously allowed the Atfal to ask questions. Atfal of various ages asked various questions for about 45 minutes. Huzooraa gave detailed answers to the satisfaction of Atfal. All Atfal thoroughly enjoyed the conversation with Huzooraa, which was conducted in a lighthearted environment. We are immensely thankful to Allah the Almighty for the blessings of Khilafat and providing means for our youth to be guided by beloved Huzooraa. A few impressions of the Atfal are as follows:

Al-Ameen Adewusi Sahib, from Baltimore majlis, said: “When I stood to deliver the translation of the recitation of the Holy Quran, Huzooraa asked me if I was Ghanaian, to which I responded in the negative, and that I was instead from Kano, Nigeria. Huzooraa then lovingly asked me the pronunciation of my name, which was surely special for me, but also, I know my family will definitely be overjoyed to learn of when I get home and share all of the details with them.” Qaasim Malik Sahib, from Maryland majlis, said: “My special request to beloved Huzooraa was that Huzooraa allow me to read a few verses of a poem my mother and I wrote for beloved Huzooraa. Huzooraa instructed that if Sadr Sahib Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya allowed, then I could read my poem. I looked towards Sadr Sahib and he kindly gave permission. I was nervous, but also excited to be expressing my sentiments of love, to my most beloved. Huzooraa afterwards remarked that I was a good

poet, which filled me with a warmth and joy that I cannot contain into words. It was an unforgettable moment that I will cherish forever.” Mohammad Iqbal Khan Sahib, National Secretary San‘at-o-Tijarat, Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya USA, said: “Another moment that brought about a small laugh and put a smile on my face was a young tifl who requested Huzooraa to lead his amin. Huzooraa graciously mentioned that he would lead his amin in person after the pandemic subsided, and even if the Talim-ul-Quran department said he was too old, he would lead it in his own home. Huzooraa, out of his immense grace, even allowed the young tifl to recite Surah alIkhlas. The particularly sentimental and sweet moments just go to show the beautiful connection Huzooraa has with all Ahmadis – be it young or old, boy or girl. Huzooraa is our most beloved and he makes each of us feel loved.”

during the day. The congregational prayer at the mosque is yet another dimension to the act of worship. The worshiper enters the mosque and stands shoulder to shoulder with the other worshipers on either side, removing the robe of status, position, ethnicity or age. Rich or poor, black, Asian or White, CEO or janitor everyone is equal in the sight of Allah except in righteousness and piety. A person attending the mosque five times a day for the congregational prayer should

have no room for prejudice in their heart. The observance of prayer also teaches Muslims about time management. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “Verily prayer is enjoined on the believers [to be performed] at fixed hours.” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.104) For me personally, the five daily prayers segregate blocks of time in my calendar and my whole day revolves around this schedule. This has taught me to be punctual as well as effectively manage my time making me

efficient in my work. As you can see this multi-faceted mode of worship offers a whole range of benefits from humility to gratitude, from seeking forgiveness to forgiving, from equality to meaningful postures. It provides the worshiper an escape five times a day from the stresses of the material life to focus on self-reformation and spiritual development. Having experienced all of these benefits, they have helped me immensely in my professional and personal life.

<< Continued from previous page

alislam.org/friday-sermon/2012-02-10.html) This is just a minute glimpse of the beauty of al-Fatihah, the full commentary would be too deep and voluminous to articulate here. The worshiper aptly stands with hands folded across the chest, head bowed down in a state of humility and submission whilst reciting. The qiyam (standing) is followed by the ruku (bowing) and then the epitome of the prayer, the sajdah (prostration), where the believer is closest to his Creator, prostrating before Him in all humility and meekness, expressing his gratitude and imploring for forgiveness. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, explaining the importance and philosophy of the postures performed within the prayer, writes: “Various postures of humility have been adopted by the world. In some places humility is expressed through the act of bowing, while in others standing with folded hands is a sign of meekness, and still in others through kneeling or prostration. Islam, which originates from the Creator of [human] nature, has kept in mind all types of dispositions and diversity of expression and combined all these acts in the prayer. Accordingly, people of various dispositions find an expression of humility within the prayer which accords to their temperament. (The Islamic Mode of Worship, p. 5) The supererogatory Tahajjud prayer offered during the middle of the night is a different experience all together. One sacrifices their precious sleep for the chance of an audience with the Lord of all the worlds. In the peaceful shadow of the night whilst the world sleeps, one has the time and the quiet to engage in long conversations of self-reflection and compelling gratitude towards the Benefactor, making affirmations to the favours that He has bestowed on us and, in full humility, seeking forgiveness for any pain or wrong that one may have caused

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

Clement Wragge’s second meeting with the Promised Messiah Part I

Prof Clement Wragge: Do you believe God is limited? Or is He present and aware everywhere and has a personality and emotions? The Promised Messiahas: I do not believe God to be limited, nor can God be limited. We believe that God Almighty is present on the earth like He is present in the sky. His connection with the creation is of two kinds – one is a general connection with the average person and the other is a special connection for those special people who purify themselves and excel in His love. As a result, He becomes so close to them as if He speaks from within them. It is a peculiar thing that despite being far, He is close and despite being close, He is far. He is extremely close; however, we cannot say [His closeness] is in the manner of how one body is close to another. And He is the highest, but we cannot say there is anyone below Him. He is the most apparent, yet is still the most hidden. The extent to which man attains true purity correlates to the knowledge he receives about Him. Concerning emotions, he [Prof Wragge] probably means why God Almighty has put the responsibility of the weight of the Shariah on mankind and why He shackled mankind in the parameters of halal and haram? And so, one must realise that the reality is that God Almighty is immensely Holy. Due to His holiness, He does not like impurity. And as He is the Most Merciful and the Most Honourable, He does not

desire a person to traverse such paths that result in their destruction. So, these are His emotions on the basis of which the system of religion is established. Now you can name those [“emotions”] however you like. Prof Clement Wragge: Does God have an image? The Promised Messiahas: When He is not limited, how can He have an image? Prof Clement Wragge: When God is love, equality and justice, then why did He make some things to be the food of others? If love, justice, equality or mercy are His personal attributes, then why did He give certain creatures the ability and power to consume other creatures, whereas they are equal in creation? The Promised Messiahas: When the word “love” is attributed to God Almighty, it is a huge mistake to compare His love to human love. The way in which the word “love” applies to humans and the meaning derived from it relating to human relations, absolutely does not apply to God; nor do those meanings and conclusions hold true regarding God. Humans have the capacity for love and anger, but the understanding that comes to mind when these words are used regarding humans can never apply to God too. It is a mistake. The nature of a human is that when they love someone their separation from that person distresses them. A mother loves her child but if her child is separated from her, then look at how distressed she becomes and how much sorrow and pain she experiences. In the same way, when a person gets angry at someone, they first experience [the anger’s] distress and pain within themselves – as such, by giving another person a punishment, they also punish themselves. Anger is a sorrow that affects the individual first – a type of bitterness is created in one’s temperament that draws away all happiness and comfort. But God Almighty is pure from these things. It is, therefore, a clear conclusion that the way these words [love etc.] are applied to humans and the conclusions derived by them when used for humans, cannot be applied in the same way for God Almighty, nor are these meanings true regarding God. For this reason, I do not like these words – it is a word invented by these people, who merely compare God to human conditions. He is a pure entity and for those who act according to His pleasure, their connection with Him

[God] continuously increases. However, of course, the words “love” and “anger” are used regarding God as metaphors. Thus, always remember, this is the system of the world for which God Almighty – through His perfect wisdom – has set the current system and the world continues under this system. However, these words are not suitable and applicable to Him. The word “love” possesses meanings of pain and sorrow. If we, for example, imagine God is love and has the attribute of anger (according to how these words are applied to humans), then we must also accept that God experiences a type of pain, sorrow and sadness. But always keep in mind, such incomplete words cannot be attributed to God Almighty. Sir Harold Nicholas | Wiki Commons

On 12 May 1908, Prof Clement Lindley Wragge and his wife had the opportunity to meet the Promised Messiahas – who was in his last illness. The renowned professor was deeply impressed with the answers he received to his questions. After the first meeting, he requested the Promised Messiahas for a chance to meet again. The Promised Messiahas had said that if his health permitted, he would accept the request and meet him again. On 18 May 1908, Prof Wragge’s desire was fulfilled and he got the opportunity to meet the Promised Messiahas once more, this time asking questions related to science and religion. The second meeting was just eight days prior to the Promised Messiah’sas demise. Just like the first meeting, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra served as the medium through which Prof Wragge met the Promised Messiahas. The meeting on 18 May 1908 took place after Zuhr prayer, in Lahore.

Prof Clement Wragge: I have understood this, but I want to ask why God has established that an inferior creature becomes the servant of a superior creature or becomes its sustenance and is humiliated by it? The Promised Messiahas: I have just explained we cannot rationalise God’s attributes of love, mercy and anger in the same framework as human attributes. To compare the human condition with God Almighty is a grave mistake. This is God Almighty’s vast system, and He has made it like this. Mankind cannot interfere beyond its limits within this order and it is not suitable to interfere in the minutest details regarding divine works and create a question out of everything. This world is a temporary world after which God Almighty has established a vast world in which He has intended and promised true and everlasting happiness. Every pain and sorrow in this world will be compensated in the next. The deficiencies of this world will be fulfilled in the next. The issue of experiencing sorrow, pain,

Professor Clement Wragge

distress and suffering is that all creation – superior and inferior – have to experience them alike and this is essential for the establishment of the world’s order. If one takes a closer look, [they will realise] no one is free from pain […] Some experience it in one way while others in another. If eagles eat birds, then lions, tigers and wolves eat the children of humans; snakes and scorpions, etc. also harm them. And so, this order has always been like this, no one is excluded from it. However, to compensate and retribute this [pain and suffering], God Almighty has created another world – it is for this reason the Holy Quran has also called Him ‫َﻣﺎﻟ ِِﻚ ﻳَﻮْ ِم‬ ّ ‫اﻟﺪﻳْ ِﻦ‬ ِ [Master of the Day of Judgement]. It can be that humans are happy, but it is possible that birds etc. are happier. This world is a test – to solve it, there is the next world. There is suffering placed in this world [but] it is God’s promise He will give happiness in the next. If someone still asks why [God] didn’t do this or that, then the answer is that He also possesses Kingship and is the Master. He did whatever He liked and no one has the capacity or right to question His doing. Continued on next page >>

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

The second aspect worth pondering over is that as human suffering is greater than animal suffering, that is why human reward is greater than the reward for animals. Human suffering is of two kinds: the pain of divine law [the Shariah] and the pain of natural decree. The suffering of the natural decree is experienced by both humans and animals and is almost equal [between the two]. If animals die at the hands of humans, then humans also die at the hands of animals. In the same way, [humans and animals] share the same part in other pain. Concerning suffering [experienced] from divine law, animals do not share the same suffering as humans. The commandments of the Shariah are also a type of blade that rests above the neck of mankind, but animals are free from this. Matters of the Shariah are a type of death that

humans must undertake. And so, by looking at all these aspects, one realises human suffering is much greater than animal suffering.

The third aspect worth keeping in mind is that human senses are extremely sharp, and they have a far superior level of awareness. Humans have a stronger conscience compared to animals and plants. This is why animals are not as intelligent [as humans]. Consciousness is born from intellect. Animals remain in a type of unconsciousness as they have extremely low levels of intellect and consciousness. Percipience [and conscience] is found in humans more so – animals barely have this ability. Therefore, animals experience these types of pains very rarely and it is quite possible that sometimes they don’t feel them at all. It is now worth pondering over who has the weight of suffering more – humans or animals? It is clear that humans experience suffering in this world more than animals do.

I have understood. What I want to know now is whether you believe animals will be given recompense in the next world? The Promised Messiahas: Yes, I believe that according to everyone’s rank, they will be given recompense of their worldly pain and their sorrow and pain will be compensated. Prof Wragge: Then, the necessary conclusion from this is that the animals we kill will be considered as alive, rather than dead. The Promised Messiahas: Yes, this is essential. They have not completely died; their soul lives on. They have not died, rather they are alive too. (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, pp. 426-432; translated by Al Hakam) (To be continued …)

Prof Wragge: Whatever you have said,

Opinion

Using social media responsibly in modern times Masood Ashraf USA Saturday, 23 March 1889 was the momentous day when Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas accepted the hands of 40 faithful servants in allegiance to the 10 Conditions of Bai‘at and founded the community, which he called the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. The Promised Messiahas took this oath of allegiance at the house of a spiritual preceptor, Hazrat Sufi Ahmad Jan in the city of Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra was the first person to have the honour of taking the first bai‘at. This was a revolutionary, yet very modest, beginning to a new chapter in the history of Islam. In his legacy to spread light and truth to the world, the Promised Messiahas used the Holy Quran to support his claims and beliefs in numerous ways. He was not only a preacher of the philosophical teachings of Islam, but was also a man of science and an advocate for scientific progression. The 1800s was a blossoming era for new inventions, ideas and prototypes that would astonish mankind and propel science and discovery forward. Not only was the first battery made in this era by Count Alessandro Volta, but so was the first lamp by Humphry Davy, the first stethoscope by Rene Laennec and even the first raincoat by Charles Mackintosh. The Promised Messiahas was a man wholly interested in these new inventions, as he was always fascinated by new trends and what the global community was interested in. In his own way, he applied verses of the Holy Quran to scientific discoveries that were made. It was his belief that Islam and science paralleled each other. There is nothing that happens on this earth that goes against the Holy Quran; from atoms to the formation of the galaxy, everything reflects the words

of the Holy book. The Promised Messiahas, being a man of reason and religion, understood the brilliance of the Holy Quran in a capacity that very few from his time could comprehend. His thoughts were so immersed in the context and meaning of each Quranic verse that it was inevitably exceptionally overwhelming at times to recognise the number of scientific miracles that were present. As a result, he ended up compiling all his notes, research, beliefs and revelations into a lengthy book series that are available for us to read. If we wish to understand more about the Holy Quran and its meaning, we should look to his various works of literature that are enriched with contextual information and insight. In one of his poems, on hearing the first phonograph, he says: “This voice is coming from the phonograph; Seek God from the heart; not through boasting and pomposity.” In this couplet, he gave us great advice that there would be new inventions in support of Islam, but their rightful use was to seek God and not for vain pursuits – most importantly, “not through boasting and bragging”. For me, this advice applies to modern day social media. Boasting and bragging are the words that caught my attention. There is no need to elaborate how far social media has reached in modern times. Everyone in the world has information on their fingertips. However, people brag through social media, whether it is on Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or any other platform – sharing knowledge and keeping close contact with family and friends is something useful but that is only one part of how social media is used. Many seek to get themselves hits or get noticed through their social media posts. People will risk their lives to do something unique to get attention on social media and many people have lost their lives trying to capture that unique experience. Very few want to keep their

lives private. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa gave us the proper way to use the Internet and new inventions: “These days, the books of the Promised Messiahas, the Holy Quran and other Islamic literature are traversing new stages of broadcast through the Internet and television. The speed of media today could not have been imagined a few decades ago. Thus, avail these opportunities given to us by Allah the Exalted, for preaching and the defense of Islam. It is a favor of Allah the Exalted that he has provided these latest inventions in this time. By making these available the work of preaching has been made easier. We should try to appropriately use these, instead of wasting time in frivolities and wrong activities. We should make use of these and if we become part of the group that is spreading the message of the Messiahas of Muhammadsa to the world, then we can be considered part of this group. We can be those people by whom Allah bore witness.” Huzooraa further said: “I had said the same at the MTA event that today, each worker of MTA, no matter where in the world he or she works, is working to take the message of the Promised Messiahas to the ends of the earth. God will make this happen, He revealed to the Promised Messiahas, ‘I shall carry thy message to the ends of the earth’ and for this purpose, He provided these resources to spread [His] message to the ends of the earth. God has destined it to be so, and all the inventions bear witness to it. (Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, Social Media, p. 91) The Promised Messiahas left a legacy for his followers to follow. Throughout his lifetime, he strived to reflect the true and noble teachings of Islam through his actions, serving as a guiding light. And so we should make better use of social media and new inventions and strive to embody everything he devoted his life for.

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

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

Views of Arabs on Arabic lughaat and their usage The following references shed considerable light on the subject of Arabic lughaat, their compilation and usage. 1. In his book, Al-Naqd Al-Adabi AlHadith, Muhammad Ghunaimi Hilal has mentioned a saying of Hazrat Umar ibn AlKhattabra about the compilation of Arabic literature. It states: ّ َ َ َ َ‫الش ْع ُر عِ ل ْ َم قَ ْوم ل َ ْم ي َ ُك ْن لَهُ ْم عِ ل ْ ٌم أ َ َص َّح ِم ْن ُه [۔۔۔] فَج‬ ‫اء‬ ِ ‫كان‬ ٍ ْ َ َ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ َ ُ ْ ‫ َوتشاغلوا بِال ِج َها ِد َوغ ْزو‬،‫لام فتشاغلت ع ْنه الع َر ُب‬ ‫الإس‬ ِ َُ َ َ ََّ َ ْ ّ ‫َ َ ْ َع ْن‬ َ َ ّ ‫س والر‬ ‫ر‬ ‫فا‬ ‫ فلما كثر‬،‫ وولهت الشع ِر و ِرواي ِته‬،‫وم‬ ِ ِ ٍ َ َْ َّ َ ْ ُ ُ ُ َ َ ‫ َو َج‬،‫لام‬ ُ ‫الإ ْس‬ ‫اءت الفت‬ ‫ راجعوا‬،‫وح َواط َمأنت الع َر ُب بِالأ ْمصا ِر‬ ِ َْ َ ْ ّ َ َ َ َ َّ َ ُ َ َ ‫تاب‬ ِ ‫ ولا‬،‫ان مدو ٍن‬ ِ ‫ِرواية‬ ٍ ‫ فلم يؤولوا ِإلى دِيو‬،‫الشع ِر‬ ٍ ‫ك‬ َّ َ ْ ْ َ َ َ َ َ َ َْ َ َ َ ‫َمك‬ ‫ َوقد هلك ِم ْن الع َر ِب ِم ْن هلك بِال َم ْو ِت‬،‫ َوألفوا فِي ذل ِك‬،‫توب‬ ٍ ْ ‫ َو َذ َه َب َعل َ ْي‬،‫ ف َ ِح ْفظوا أَقَ َّل َذل َِك‬،‫وال ْ َق ْتل‬ ٌ ‫هم ِم ْن ُه َك‬ ‫ثير‬ ِ “Poetry was a source of knowledge for the [Arab] people; they did not possess any other source more authentic than poetry […] When Islam came, the Arabs turned their attention towards engaging in Jihad, attacking the Persians and Romans, distracting them from the art of poetry and its narration. When Islam became widespread, conquests took place and the Arabs settled peacefully in the conquered lands. It was during this period that they returned to narrating poetry. They did not depend on recorded poetical works or written books; rather, they began to compose poetry. By that time, many Arabs had passed away or been killed. Thus, they recorded a small portion of poetry and a large amount of it was lost.” (Al-Naqd AlAdabi Al-Hadith, p. 6 [published by Dar alThaqafa, Beirut]) 2. Abu Amr ibn Al-Alaa, one of Qurra-eSab‘ah [the seven reciters of the Holy Quran], a great scholar and an Arab linguists, states: ُ َ َ ْ َ َ ُ َّ َ َ َّ ُ َ َ َ َ َّ ُ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ‫اءك ْم َوا ِف ًرا‬ ‫ ولو ج‬،‫ما انتهى ِإليك ْم ِمما قال ُت العرب ِإلا أَقله‬ ْ ْ َ ‫لجاءك ْم عِ ل ٌم َو ِشعر كثي‬ “Only a small portion of the narrations of the Arabs have been passed down to you. If they had reached you in abundance, then you would have indeed received a great measure of [Arabic] knowledge and poetry.” (Tabaqat Fuhul Ash-Shu‘ara‘ Ta‘lif Ibn

Salam Al-Jumahi, p. 25 [Tahqiq Mahmud Muhammad Shakir: 1974]) 3. Ibn Jinni, a well-known Arabic grammar specialist of the fourth century AH, has written in his book, Al-Khasa‘is, a chapter entitled, Ikhtilaf Al-Lughaat wa Kullaha Hujjah [The differences between the Arabic lughaat and all of them are comprehensive evidence]. Under this heading, he writes about the use of rare and uncommon Arabic lughaat and states: َ َ َ َ َ ُ َ ُّ ََ َ َ َ َْ َ َ َ َ ‫ َو َعلى هذا في ِج ُب‬،‫الم َع ّول َعل ْي َها هكذا‬ ‫ان الأم ُر فِي اللغ ِة‬ ‫ف ِإذا ك‬ َّ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ ُ ْ ْ َّ َ ْ َ ‫ ِإلا‬،‫شيع ِم ْن َها‬ ‫ وأن يتخير ما هو أقوى وأ‬،‫أن ي ِقل اس ِتعمالها‬ َ َ ً ْ ُ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ً ْ َّ َ ُ َ َ ََ ‫ك ّنه‬ ِ ‫ ل‬،‫ام العر ِب‬ ِ ‫أن ِإن َسانا ل ْو استع َ َملها ل ْم يكن مخ ِط َئا لِكل‬ َ َ َ َ َ ْ ْ َّ َ ْ َ َ ُّ َ ْ ً ْ ُ ُ َ َ َ ‫اج ِإلى ذل ِك فِي‬ ‫ فأما ِإن احت‬.‫كان يكون مخ ِطئا لِأجو ِد اللغتي ِن‬ ٌ ْ َ ُ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ ْ‫ َوك َ َذل َِك إن‬.‫ َغيْ ُر َم ْنعي َعل َ ْيه‬،‫بول م ْن ُه‬ ‫ِشع ٍر أو سج ٍع ف ِإنه مق‬ ِ ِ ِْ َ َ َ َ َ َُ َ ُ ُ َ َ ُ ُ َ ‫ َويَقول َعلى َمذه ِب‬،‫ يَقول َعلى ِق َياس َم ْن لغته كذا كذا‬:‫قال‬ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ َ َ َ َ ُ ‫اس‬ ِ ‫ وكيف تصرفت الحال فالنا ِط َق على ِقي‬.‫من قال كذا كذا‬ ُ ْ َُ ْ َ َ ْ َ ُْ ْ َ ٌ َ ‫ان غير َما‬ ‫ و ِإن ك‬،‫صيب غي ُر مخ ِط ٍئ‬ ‫غات الع َر ِب» ُم‬ ِ ‫لغ ٍة ِمن «ل‬ ْ َ َ َ ُ ‫اء بِ ِه خي ًرا ِم ْنه‬ ‫ج‬ “Thus, if this is the case regarding a certain lughah [expression] in a language being used, then such expressions should be used less often and the writer should choose expressions which are more effective and prevalent. However, if someone uses them, then this does not mean they have erred in the usage of the Arabic language; however, it is possible they may have committed the mistake of using an uncommon lughah instead of a more common one. If one needs to use such an expression when composing poetry or rhyming prose, then this is acceptable and is not prohibited. “Similarly, if someone refers in his writing to the lughah [dialect] of a certain tribe, stating that ‘I have used this expression on the measure of this dialect’, or ‘I have written this according to a certain grammatical school of thought’, then, in this case, they are correct in their usage of the Arabic language. However, it would have been better for them to use a common expression instead of an uncommon one.” (Al-Khasa‘is, Juz‘ 2, Bab fi al-Arab Yasm‘u Lughah Ghairahu Ayara‘iha wa Ya‘tamiduha Am Yalghaiha wa Yatrahu Hukmaha, p. 14) Hence, Ibn Jinni says that the use of uncommon lughaat should be minimal and the writer should choose the best and the most popular lughaat from the lughaat

of the Arabs. However, if someone uses uncommon lughaat instead of a well-known lughat, they will not be considered mistaken in their usage of the Arabic language. On the other hand, they may have committed the mistake of using an uncommon lughat rather than a more common one. However, if they use an uncommon lughat in poem or prose, then it is acceptable and not forbidden. Moreover, if someone refers to a certain lughat of an Arab tribe and writes in accordance with it, then that is also justified usage of uncommon lughaat. In a nutshell, if someone bases his Arabic work on any Arabic lughat, it will be considered correct and such a person will not be called erroneous. Surprisingly, the Arabic words or usages of the Promised Messiahas which are objected to are mostly taken from his poetry and prose, and Ibn Jinni says that in these two Arabic works, the use of uncommon lughaat is acceptable and there is no prohibition about it. Moreover, research on many Arabic lughaat used by the Promised Messiahas proves that they are correct according to the lughaat of various Arab tribes. On the other hand, if opponents object to some other Arabic lughaat, styles or usages of the Promised Messiahas by saying that there are no similar examples in Arabic literature, then this fact confirms his claim that Allah the Almighty taught him 40,000 Arabic lughaat. And since very little has been done to preserve the Arabic

lughaat and very few of these lughaat have reached us, no one has any tangible proof or justification to refute the claim of the Promised Messiahas. 4. In his book, Al-Muhtasib, Ibn Jinni states: َ َ َ ََ ْ َ ٌ َّ َ َ َْ َ ‫بي ِة قائ ٌم‬ ‫و ِإ ْن‬‫لي َس ي َ ْن َب ِغي أ ْن يُطلق َعلى ش ْي ٍء ل ُه َو ْجه فِي العر‬ ِ ٌ َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ ْ َْ َ ُ ُ ْ َ َ َ ‫ أنه غلط‬-‫كان غيره أقوى ِمنه‬ “It is incorrect to assert that an expression which can be found in the Arabic language – even if another expression is more effective – is wrong.” (Al-Muhtasib fi Tabyin Wujuh Shawadhdh Al-Qira‘at wa Al-Iddahu Anha, Juz‘ 1, p. 236) 5. The famous Allama Abu Hayyan AlAndalusi of the seventh century AH, in his book, At-Tadhyil wat-Takmil, writes: ُّ ً َ ‫لقبيلة ِق‬ ‫يس عليه‬ ‫كل ما كان لغة‬ ٍ “If a certain usage of Arabic can be found in the dialect of a tribe, then it is possible to measure and adopt a similar style.” (AlTadhyil wat-Takmil fi sharhit-Tashīl, 2/28) Thus, a deep study and knowledge of the lughaat of Arabs strengthen the claim of the Promised Messiahas and proves the magnitude of his proficiency in Arabic lughaat. Any objection to the words and phrases related to this subject only attest to the lack of knowledge in Arabic of the opponents. (Research conducted by Muhammad Tahir Nadeem Sahib, Arabic Desk UK. Translated by Al Hakam, with special thanks to Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib, Arabic Desk UK)

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

Tabligh efforts and distinctive achievement of Ahmadi missionary in America The Review of Religions (English), March 1921

Qadian His Holiness, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih [IIra], head of the Ahmadiyya community left for Lahore on 4 March [1921]. There he delivered a lecture on The Need of Religion, before an audience composed of students of various local colleges. From Lahore he proceeded to Malerkotla and after a brief sojourn of three days, he came back to Qadian on 11 March [1921]. At Malerkotla he delivered a lecture on the truth of Islam. Our London mission Our missionaries, Maulvi FM Sayal and Mubarak Ali, are carrying on their work with all earnestness and are sparing no pains to guide the people of the west to their salvation. In his latest letter Mr Sayal reports two more conversions – one being a gentleman who has been named Faruq and the other, a lady who has embraced Islam after a thorough study of its teachings and principles for six long years and has chosen for herself the beautiful name of Mahmudah (praised). During the period under report (16 January to 4 February [1921]), our brethren

delivered 13 lectures on various topics. Mr Sayal requests his friends to pray for the success of the Ahmadiyya missions, beset as it is on all sides by the forces of materialism. Mr Nayyar was accorded a hearty send off by some of his Ahmadi brethren and sisters when the ship set sail from Liverpool for Sierra Leone. In his last letter from London dated 31 January [1921], Mr Nayyar informs us that at the request of the Independent Spiritualist Church of Portsmouth, he gave a lecture on Sunday, 30 January [1921]. The church was packed to its utmost capacity and even the doors of the Church were kept open to make room for the audience. The lecture was much appreciated and he was asked to address the audience again in the evening. He explained to the best of his ability in the time at his disposal the mission of Ahmad[as]. The people were much pleased to hear the lecture. In his last lecture in Hyde Park, Mr Nayyar delivered his farewell message to English people which was that their salvation lay in Islam only. News has been received that Mr Nayyar reached Sierra Leone safe on 21 February

[1921]. In one of his letters, Mr Sayal narrates two interesting visions which he saw recently in London. He says: “I saw myself sitting in a chair in a room, surrounded on all sides by difficulties which stood there in the shape of idols, made of artificial stones. They were so numerous that I grow uneasy at their sight and exclaimed in a loud voice ‘How shall we get rid of these difficulties?’ Then I saw the Promised Messiah[as] standing there and he said that there was no other asylum from these difficulties save the lap of God.” The same night, writes Mr Sayal, he saw the devil in the form of a strong woman. She was standing on a lofty place and a large number of her agents were standing before her. She was angry with them and said, “What a cry there was about the Ahmadis?” She heard from all sides, she said, that the Ahmadis were gaining successes against them and she asked whether nothing could be done against them. Her agents in reply, confessed their powerlessness in the matter and said, that as Ahmadis did everything by means of prayers, they could make no interference with their affairs.

Our American mission Every Sunday our brother [Mufti Sadiq Sahibra] gives two lectures, one in the Church of Love and the other in his own lecturing room. In the course of one of his lectures, a gentleman stood up and said, “A time there was when we considered East to be uncultured and uneducated and we sent there our missionaries but now our spiritual blindness has been brought home to us and east has provided us with a missionary.” On 16 January [1921], our brother delivered a lecture on Revelation and Prophethood. At the conclusion of the lecture, a person stood up and brought forth his claim to prophethood. A controversy was proposed to take place on next Sunday. The Christian was to prove his own claim and our missionary was to speak on the prophethood of Muhammad[sa] and Ahmad[as], leaving the audience to judge for themselves the soundness of the arguments advanced from both sides. The controversy is expected to attract a big audience. Our readers will be much pleased to know that the Lincoln Jefferson University has conferred on our learned brother Mufti Muhammad Sadiq the honourary degree of Doctor of Literature (LittD) in recognition of his attainment as a scholar. The following is a copy of the certificate: “This is to certify that under and by virtue of a charter granted by the State of Illinois to the Trustees of the Lincoln Jefferson University. “There has been conferred upon MUFTI MOHAMMAD SADIQ, the honourary degree of Doctor of Literature (LittD) on the nomination and approval of the faculty, in recognition of his attainments as a scholar, success as a leader of men, and his devotion to promoting the higher and nobler relations between man and man. “To him we grant all the rights, privileges and honours appertaining to this degree, and in testimony thereof witness the signature of our President and the Seal of this University. “Done in the City of Chicago, Illinois: this the 16th day of December 1920. “(Signed) John FB Walker, PhD, DD, LittD. President of the University and of the Board of Trustees.” East and West M Clemenceau, the late Premier of France, recently said at Bombay: “The East was not backward. All noble ideals of love and humanity came from the East. The West had adopted them and made them their own. Therefore I speak not as one of a higher civilization but as one swimming to the source of civilization.” In the present age also, God raised the Promised Messiah[as] in the east in fulfilment of the word which He had spoken to the prophets (vide, for instance, Isaiah 41:2, “who raised the righteous man from the east”). It is now for the West to adopt the truth which he taught to the world and to make it their own. […] (Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original article in The Review of Religions [English], March 1921)

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

The blessings of Ahmadiyyat on my parents, Dr Hameed A Khan and Mrs Sajida Mubashira Khan Part IV was also fortunate to host respected Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa a third time in 2007 for a very blessed regional Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Ijtema, by the grace of Allah.

Tayyaba Ahmed Hartlepool, UK

‫ت �ت غ‬ ‫ی ن‬ ‫َی‬ ‫زم ےک انکروں کت اچنہپؤں اگ‬ ‫م ی�ری �بل�ی� وک‬ “I shall carry your message to the ends of the earth.” (Divinely revealed words to the Promised Messiahas in 1898, Tadhkirah [2018 edition], p. 407) Tabligh continues Hartlepool is a coastal town with a shipbuilding and fishing history, in the North East of England. Being on the coastline, it appears as if it is one of the edges of the earth. Visiting the Seaton Carew beach, where we walked many times with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and enjoyed fish and chips, can seem to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, particularly at sunrise. After the demise of my mother, my father continued his tabligh pursuits under the kind and benevolent guidance and attention of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. One of his patients, Mr Edward Ahmad Wrigley, a fisherman (by hobby at least, if not by trade), accepted Ahmadiyyat at this time, followed by two other family members. He was one of the 13 people that accepted Ahmadiyyat through my father’s tabligh efforts, alhamdulillah. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh continued to visit Hartlepool, once bringing his beloved Urdu Class with him and on another occasion, bringing a group of

relatives, including Mirza Mansoor Ahmad Sahib, his son Sahibzada Mirza Masroor Ahmad – now Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, and Mirza Muzaffar Ahmad Sahib. It was a most blessed trip and some years later, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa himself related how memorable the trip had been for him also, particularly as at one point whilst performing wuzu [ablution] in our dining room, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh had unexpectedly and lovingly embraced him. The Nasir Mosque “And every one has a goal which dominates him; vie, then, with one another in good works …” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.149) My father had long dreamed of having a mosque in the town which he and his family had made home. Thus, during the last years of his life he made it his goal to do everything possible to fulfil this dream. Not long before his demise, my father had identified and initially negotiated a plot of land in a suitable location in Hartlepool for a mosque. Although he passed away in early 2000, and so did not see the mosque himself, but by the grace of Allah, it was a great honour and comfort when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa came to lay the foundation stone of the mosque in 2004 and then again to inaugurate it in 2005. Alhamdulillah, it will always be a source of great honour and happiness for the Hartlepool Jamaat that their town has had the blessed visits of three Khulafa of the Promised Messiahas. In fact, Hartlepool

The “Prince of Patience” “Self-control personified, a Prince of Patience he was; Everyone was fond of him, to him everyone gave his heart”. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh has described my father as a “Prince of Patience” and there is no doubt that he showed a great deal of patience both during my mother’s illness and his own. I remember, once, during her final months of illness when I was helping her clean her teeth, he reminded me to make sure the water was warm for this. He looked after her in minute detail. In fact, even in happier times when we were teenagers, if he ever came home to find her doing housework on her own, he would remind us by saying it was embarrassing that our mother should be tidying on her own. We would immediately get up and begin helping! If I am to choose another incident of exemplary patience and wisdom, it would be April 1999, when my husband’s cousin, Mirza Ghulam Qadir Sahib, was martyred in Pakistan. The only news we had at Mirza Ghulam Qadir Sahib that time was that he had been shot; there were no particular details relating to the circumstances. The late Mrs Amtul Haye Khan Sahiba (of Yorkshire) had informed my husband, who immediately booked a flight to Pakistan. We were living in Hartlepool at this time and I probably phoned my father to inform him of what had happened. Without my asking and without any hesitation, he offered to pay for the flight. My sister happened to be with him watching and listening to the phone-call at the time. She related that her impression was that my father wished that he himself should have gone. Undeniably, my father was, as Huzoorrh described, a paragon of self-control during his painful illness with oesophageal cancer. My brother, Abid, has described the last few years of his life in some detail. Suffice to say, if I can remember my father cry, it was only for the love of Allah and Allah’s dear ones. Perhaps a month before his demise, I remember he sat with Taalay in an armchair

by the fireplace, reading about the events of the life of Prophet Yusufas (Joseph) from the text of the Holy Quran, tears running down his face. َ ۡ َ ۡ ‫َّر ّب‬ ‫ار َح ۡم ُہ َما ک َما َربّ ٰی ِن ۡی َص ِغی ًرا‬ ِ “My Lord, have mercy on them even as they nourished me in [my] childhood.” (Surah Bani Isra‘il, Ch.17: V.25) Epilogue َ‫َو لَا تَہ ُن ۡوا َو لَا َت ۡح َزن ُ ۡوا َو اَنۡتُ ُم الۡاَ ۡع َل ۡو َن ا ِۡن ُک ۡنتُ ۡم ُّم ۡؤ ِم ِنیۡن‬ ِ “Slacken not, nor grieve; and you shall certainly have the upper hand, if you are believers.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.140) As I write these final lines, I am hoping in the near future to leave our beloved town of Hartlepool, the last of my siblings to do so, with the intention of, insha-Allah, moving closer to the Markaz and the abode of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper. For those of us that are, or insha-Allah will be, the “Sajidas” and “Hameeds” of today – whether you are homemakers, students, missionaries, doctors, lawyers, teachers, women, men, young or old – I end as I began with the words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa followed by a list of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa sermons guiding us on tabligh (courtesy of Lajna UK Tabligh Department). I pray that I am enabled by Allah to be counted amongst you, wherever you may be. Amin. May Allah enable us to fulfil our responsibilities always. Amin. “We have been commanded to convey the message and we cannot hold back from this, nor will we do so. We will complete what we must do. Only God Almighty knows who will be guided and will not. We will fulfil the task given to us but at the same time it is the promise of God that He and His Messenger will prevail, God willing, that is why we have hope that one day the majority will come into our fold”. (Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Friday Sermon delivered on 8 September 2017) Some tabligh-related sermons delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa • Building of mosques and tabligh: Friday Sermon, 16 June 2006 • Tabligh and the revival of Islam: Friday Sermon, 9 April 2010 • Tabligh by Companionsra of the Promised Messiahas: Friday Sermon, 9 March 2012 • Invite to Allah with wisdom and goodly exhortation: Friday Sermon, 8 September 2017

18 • Calling unto Allah: Friday Sermon, 8 October 2004 • Tabligh: Friday Sermon, 13 March 2015 • Building mosques, unity and accord: Friday Sermon, 5 April 2013 • Spread the message of Islam to the Hispanic community: Friday Sermon, 10 May 2013 • Conveying the true message of Islam: Friday Sermon, 28 April 2017 • Requirements of a waqif-e-zindagi and waqif-e-nau: Friday Sermon, 22 October 2010 • Attributes of a momin (true believer): Friday Sermon, 20 April 2018 • Tabligh and the revival of Islam: Friday Sermon, 9 April 2010 • Practice truth in all aspects of your life: 9 September 2011 • Tabligh and wisdom - responsibilities of missionaries, office holders and Ahmadis: Friday Sermon, 5 April 2013 • Responsibilities of emigrated Ahmadi Muslims: Friday Sermon, 6 April 2018 • Concluding address, Lajna Imaillah National Ijtema: September 2017 • The Promised Messiahas and preaching of Islam in the West: 23 August 2015

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in Hartlepool, 2005

Jamaat’s representation at the International Women Day event by One Vision charity Jawad Qamar Secretary External Affairs & Outreach, Jamaat Watford

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Watford was invited by One Vison charity to represent the Islamic community on their International Women Day event on 8 March 2021. It was an excellent opportunity to represent Islam and the Islamic prospective which was joined by around 200 members on Zoom, and many others watched it live on YouTube and Facebook. Three members of Parliament, the High Sheriff of Herts, Mayor of Watford, Chief Police Officers, BBC and Sky News Presenters were amongst the guests and speakers. National Secretary Tabligh of Lajna Imaillah UK joined the event and presented an introduction of the Jamaat, Lajna Imaillah, humanitarian activities of Lajna Imaillah, and the status of women in Islam by quoting the Holy Quran, ahadith and Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa sayings. The event can be watched on the following link: https://youtu.be/aEH5Zt8grH4

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

Coming from every distant track: David Samuel Margoliouth, English orientalist visits Qadian A series looking at the high standard of morals of the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa when receiving visitors in Qadian Awwab Saad Hayat Al Hakam David Samuel Margoliouth (17 October 1858 – 22 March 1940) was a well-known English Orientalist. For a short time, during his full academic and research career, he was an active priest with the Church of England. He was also a professor of Arabic at Oxford University. His period of teaching (1889 to 1937) spanned nearly 48 years, during which, in 1916, Prof Margoliouth was invited by the University of Punjab in Lahore to deliver a lecture on Islamic history. Inspired by its universal fame, Prof Margoliouth arrived in Qadian on 16 December 1916 to meet with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. In Qadian, he was extended hospitality by the Jamaat. When he made his way to meet Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, accompanying Huzoorra at the time were Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra, Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira, Hazrat Dr Khalifa Rashiduddinra, Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayalra, Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira, Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Rahim Nayyarra, Chaudhry Ghulam Muhammad Sahib, Hazrat Maulvi Syed Sarwar Shahra, Hazrat Hafiz Roshan Alira and the editor of Al Fazl. During the conversation between Huzoorra and Prof Margoliouth, Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayalra served as the interpreter. This conversation has been preserved and published in Al Fazl in the issue of 19-22 December 1916. At the time of this conversation, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra was only 27 years of age, whilst Prof Margoliouth was more than twice his age. In the beginning, as a gesture of respect, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra stated, “We are very pleased to have you here. Did you face any problems travelling on the unpaved roads?” Prof Margoliouth: There were problems. I arrived here with ease.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: I have heard you possess a special interest in history. Are there any principles, in your view, which every historian should bear in mind [when studying history]? Prof Margoliouth: I have not devised any new principles. In my view, the method adopted by Muslim historians for historiography is very careful and correct. All we do is express their thoughts and events in English.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: Which of the history books on the [early] Islamic era, which are in the Arabic language, do you prefer? Prof Margoliouth: With regard to the philosophy of history, I prefer The Muqaddimah of Ibn Khaldun. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: I do not mean the philosophy of history, but common historical events. Prof Margoliouth: I give more preference to Miskawayh [Persian philosopher] than other historians. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: Our movement’s claim is that we present Islam in its true and original form, which was presented to the world through the Holy Prophetsa. And in our view, we explain things clearer and more distinctly than what history presents to the world because everything

we present is based on observation. And, for historians, the definitive argument for an event is observation. Anything besides this cannot be acknowledged. However, no one can dare to deny that which has been witnessed. For example, if it is written in a history book that there was a city in such and such a place and someone goes there and sees that there is a city there – or, if not a city, then ruins are there; or similarly, if it is written that there is a mountain in such and such a place and a person sees the mountain in that place, then there will be no doubts about this statement of history or geography. However, that which no one has witnessed cannot be said to be absolutely correct and accurate unless the means of knowing it is reliable and trustworthy. Bearing this in mind, we must look at how and by what means Islam was presented to us and whether those means are reliable or not. Secondly, we must look at

what Islam teaches and states through [the lens of] experience and observation, and see whether it [Islam] is, or not as it claims. The founder of Islam, the Holy Prophetsa, had a strong relationship with Allah the Almighty, and Islamic history narrates events that support this claim. Now, if a person follows [the teachings of] Islam and establishes a connection with Allah the Almighty, he will be convinced that what has been said about the founder of Islam is correct; that he was not a liar, whether it is the Holy Prophetsa, Abu Bakrra, Umarra, Uthmanra, Alira. Critics, today, believe that Islam was perfected by different men on the basis of the assumption that it is a man-made religion and [speculate] how [it was possible for] a single person to give such a message. Upon observation, [the teachings of Islam] prove that Islam possesses extraordinary power within itself, then this idea [which critics cling on to] becomes invalidated and one is compelled to believe that what the history of Islam presents is true. Today, when a person can reach God Almighty by following its teachings, then how is it not possible, for the person who conveyed this teaching to not have established a connection with God Almighty? Witnessing [the teachings of Islam] will definitely prove that this man [the Holy Prophetsa] must have had a strong relationship with Allah Almighty and no historian can deny this. However, in spite of this, if anyone still claims that [Islam] is wrong, then, other than laughing at such a ridiculous claim, what more can a man of intellect do? They have themselves witnessed the truth through experience and observation; following its teachings resulted in the same outcome for them which Islam has claimed from the beginning. Prof Margoliouth: I also agree; if there is a witness to the authenticity of an incident, then there is no doubt about its validity. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: I am glad you agree with this; however, the people of European countries have not paid attention to this and are determined to disprove the history of Islam and the founder of Islam, which have reached them historically. However, no historical opinion can be conclusive. In this day and age, we see that in war, rumours are spread that a certain incident took place in such and such manner; however, after a while, it is proven false and another rumour is spread. So if, Continued on next page >>

20 << Continued from previous page

in the current circumstances, news can be contradicted, then how can we expect for there to have been no contradictions in the past. When this is the case today, then surely a historical incident cannot be deemed certain and absolute. Some aspects of historical evidence remain doubtful and no one can claim that such and such historical record happened as it was recorded [in history]. However, there is no room for doubt in that which is mentioned in history and is still witnessed today. You see, Islam claims that the Holy Prophetsa had a close connection with Allah the Almighty; he received help and support from Allah and was sent as a messenger to the world. If there was a person who failed to verify this upon scrutinising the historical evidence from various angles, but a different person, who had successfully achieved all these things by acting upon the teaching of Islam, testified that whatever had been recorded in certain historical records was absolutely true because the basis of rejecting it was only indirect inference, but he had verified it by directly witnessing it, then which of the two testimonies would be credible? If a person rejected this historical evidence, in spite of such testimony, on the basis of other historical records or some other issues, then the person who has directly witnessed those matters would reserve the right to ask that person the following question: “Since we have been able to achieve those things even in this age by following the teaching of Islam, then how is it possible that the things that have been recorded in history be wrong?’ Prof Margoliouth: Of course, that which is witnessed cannot be denied. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: Different religions have their own books of history and they claim that their history is true and in doing so, attempt to disprove the traditions of other religions. The easiest way to resolve this disagreement is to settle it with the support of seeing [what is stated in their revealed books]. Otherwise, the differences can never be resolved, on the basis of traditions alone. So, where people of Europe attempt to draw a conclusion by examining

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history, if they also pay attention to drawing conclusions on the basis of direct experiences, then we would be ready to prove the claims of Islam on its behalf. Our religious leader has opened this path of research and said that people of all religions have historically made some claims; for example, Christians say that so and so sign appeared from the Messiah [of Nazareth]; and thus, this proves his truthfulness. However, people of other religions say that it is wrong [to believe] that such miracles were shown by the Messiah [of Nazareth]. Likewise, Hindus claim that their elders showed such and such signs. Yet, people of other religions don’t agree. Similarly, Muslims state that through the Holy Prophetsa such and such signs manifested, but others refuse to believe them. Now, it is not possible to resolve which religion’s miracles were manifested because each religion presents its own phenomenon historically. However, the signs of that religion which can still be witnessed [today] shall surely be recognied as true. So, even today, we are ready to present the same signs and [show] God’s help and support which appeared in the time of the Holy Prophetsa and which the opponents of Islam now call impossible and improbable. They have already fulfilled this claim. Even now, if a conference was held on this kind of investigation, which was attended by representatives of all religions, we would certainly also attend it. Representatives of every religion should present evidence of the distinguishing features of their religion which have come to them through traditions, on the basis of direct experience in this age. The claim and the historicity of that religion shall be accepted, the followers of which are able to prove these matters through direct experience. Those that are not able to prove in this manner, their claim shall not be considered worthy of our attention. If we are able to demonstrate and prove in that conference on the basis of direct experience that the signs that were shown for the Holy Prophetsa are still possible then … (At this point, it should be remembered that a sign is not one that is shown on people’s terms. By the appearance of miracle, I [Huzoorra] do not mean that the opponent asks for a sign and it shall manifest; rather, it means that if all the religions or one of the great religions, particularly Christianity,

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

Our Imam, Hazrat Mirza Sahib, wrote many

books in the Arabic language. He set a reward of up to 30,000 rupees and challenged people all over the

world to write something similar to this. But no one was able to compete with him. He did not study in any Arabic school, nor did he visit Arabia, nor did he study with a famous teacher. However, in spite

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of this, he challenged the Arab scholars all over the world, yet no one accepted [his challenge]. agrees to decide in this manner, then in addition to those signs that the Promised Messiahas has shown and that fall under the category of direct experience, some of which are yet to be manifested, God Almighty is capable of manifesting any of the miracles mentioned in the Noble Quran or the authentic ahadith in support of Islam. And if such a duel takes place, then He most certainly will show such a miracle in order to establish such an argument against the enemies of Islam, which will pave the way for the domination of Islam.) So, what reason is there for the world to not consider Islam as the true religion and the Holy Prophetsa as a true messenger? How could our Master and Leader, Muhammad, the Chosen One, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, not have accomplished what his servants and slaves are able to do? He most certainly could. Prof Margoliouth: Do you believe in the miracles recorded in Dala‘il al-Nubuwwah. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II : We believe in the miracles that are mentioned in the Holy Quran and authentic ahadith. We do not accept books that are written as stories to please the common people. No religion is free from such books in which some people write, in exaggerated parables, without conducting any research, to elevate the status of the prophet they follow. We do not accept ra

such books; however, not acknowledging them does not mean that our Prophetsa did not show any signs. He most certainly did. But only those signs which are mentioned in the Holy Quran and ahadith; and it is with regard to these signs that we claim can still appear. In the same way, we ask the followers of other religions to prove, through observation, the signs which their revealed books claim. Prof Margoliouth: In your opinion, is the miracle of Shaq-ul-Qamar [the splitting of the moon], which has been mentioned in the Quran, correct or not? Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: Why not. When [the incident] is mentioned in the Holy Quran, then there can be no doubt in its authenticity. Prof Margoliouth: Could this miracle be [manifested] again in this day and age? Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: [It can be manifested today] in the same manner that the Holy Quran has mentioned it. What the Holy Quran describes of this [indecent] is different from what is generally known. The Holy Quran says that Shaq-ul-Qamar is a sign of “the Hour” [i.e. the last hour or the time of reckoning]. Now, we would give the term “the Hour” that meaning according to Continued on next page >>

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021 << Continued from previous page

which it is considered a sign of the Hour. That meaning is that the moon was the sign of the kingdom of Arabia. The Holy Prophetsa was shown, in the form of a vision, that the moon split in two and this vision was also shown to others. This type of vision that is visible to others has occurred even in this age. It is possible that the Holy Prophetsa was shown, in this vision, that the moon had split which meant that the kingdom of Arabia would be destroyed. The door to such type of vision is not closed; it is still open. Evidence to the fact that qamar [moon in Arabic] refers to the kingdom of Arabia is found in the famous incident when the Holy Prophetsa invaded Khaybar. There, [Hazrat] Safiyyah, the daughter of the chief, saw that the moon was placed on her lap. When she told this dream to her father, he slapped her and [rhetorically] asked if she desired to marry the king of Arabia. The dream was fulfilled when Khaybar was conquered, and she got married to the Holy Prophetsa. So, the moon was the symbol of the rule of the Arabs, and its split predicted the collapse of the kingdom of Arabia. Prof Margoliouth: Can the miracle of the uniqueness of the Quran be shown again? Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: It has been shown at least 20 times during this era. Our Imam, Hazrat Mirza Sahib, wrote many books in the Arabic language. He set a reward of up to 30,000 rupees and challenged people all over the world to write something similar to this. But no one was able to compete with him. He did not study in any Arabic school, nor did he visit Arabia, nor did he study with a famous teacher. However, in spite of this, he challenged the Arab scholars all over the world, yet no one accepted [his challenge]. This was a proof against the allegation

that is raised against the Holy Prophetsa that if he was unlettered, how could he have produced the Quran and that the Quran must have been the result of some society’s shared endeavour. This allegation was baseless because even today a man, who was unlettered in a way, by authoring unparalleled books, has proven that the work of his Mastersa was certainly superior. Those who issued fatwas against Hazrat Mirza Sahib are still present in India. They can testify that he did not study in any Arabic school, nor did he visit Arabia. His mother tongue was not Arabic, yet he challenged the Arab scholars all over the world. However, no one dared to accept [his challenge]. AlManar’s [an Islamic magazine] editor could not reply to this challenge; instead, he wrote that there were many mistakes in his [the Promised Messiahas] books. However, when he was given an answer and was challenged, he was so ashamed and embarrassed that he could not reply and shied away from an encounter. Prof Margoliouth: If one accepts this challenge, who will decide [its outcome]?

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: Hazrat Mirza Sahib has also decided this. He said that the one who accepts the challenge may himself appoint a judge (provided that the judge is not one of his disciples, followers, etc). However, when the judge makes his decision, he should swear, “If I make any false decision, may God’s punishment befall me within a year.” If no such torment befalls them within the year, which is particularly significant and awe-inspiring, then the reward will be presented. Prof Margoliouth: You have shown great courage and open-mindedness. I have benefited a lot from this discussion and I am grateful to you. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra: We have a parting message that we give in the hope that you will deliver it to your circle, which is that the world can never progress with harshness and rigidity. It proves to be very useful if a matter is decided through mutual understanding and love. In the same way, if Europeans conduct their research on Islamic matters out of love, it will benefit them and

increase mutual love. Prof Margoliouth: I will try and spread this message within my circle. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra then gave him some Arabic books of the Promised Messiahas [such as] Ijaz-ul-Masih, Lujjatun Nur, and Sirat-ul-Abdal; to which Prof Margoliouth expressed his gratitude. Since Prof Margoliouth had to go back to Lahore in the evening, he was, after this brief conversation with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, shown [various sites including] Bahishti Maqbarah, Minarat-ul-Masih, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s Ira library, and the buildings in Darul Ulum. Perhaps it was the effect of this meeting, that after approximately eight years, when a list of invitees for Wembley’s Conference of Living Religions was being compiled, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was requested to attend. Prof Margoliouth’s name was also among those who invited Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra with great sincerity and love on this occasion.

Completing the Holy Quran for the first time: Amin ceremonies in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Shahid Mehmood Khan Missionary, Congo Kinshasa During the first three months of 2021, the amin ceremonies (when someone

completes their first recitation of the Holy Quran) took place in different regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The youngest child of our regional missionary of Bandundu region, Najia

Ahmad Sahiba, completed a round of the Holy Quran at the age of 6 years and 5 months. Her mother, Arzu Fareed Sahiba had the honour to teach her the recitation of the Holy Quran. On 22 January 2021, an amin ceremony was held in Kikwit region. Ammatul Momin Sahiba, daughter of our regional missionary Kikwit, Atta ul Qayyum Sahib, completed the Holy Quran at the age of 6 years and 11 months. Due to the travel restrictions, Amir and Missionary-incharge DRC, Khalid Mahmood Shahid Sahib participated via video link and listened to a portion of the Holy Quran from her. Her mother, Hibbatul Quddus Sahiba had the honour to teach her the recitation of the Holy Quran. In Kasai region’s Luiza territory, two

Khuddam; Ngueji Nsaka Muhammad Sahib and Katshiapa Mpingula Usman Sahiba completed their reading of the Holy Quran. The local missionary, Abu Bakar Mbuyi Sahib supervised them during their course of the Holy Quran. These two are the first ever Muslims in the territory to have completed a round of the Holy Quran. May Allah enable all of us to comprehend the true teachings of the Holy Quran.

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

The exemplary young Companions: Hospitality

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

Hospitality is one of the greatest morals of human beings and Islam has stressed it greatly; so much so that the Holy Prophetsa is reported to have said that the arrival of a guest is a sign of divine favour for that household. That is why hospitality was one of the special traits of the Companionsra. Though a number of Companionsra were seemingly poor, their poverty and indigence could not deprive them of the merit of hospitality. Only a few examples of many from the history of Islam are cited below. Sacrificing food at home for a guest and God’s pleasure Once, a guest came to visit the Holy Prophetsa. Since hospitality of even a single person was not easy in that age, the Holy Prophetsa urged the Companionsra that Allah would have mercy on the one who entertained that guest. At the hope of mercy from God Almighty, without evaluating the food at home, Hazrat Abu Talhahra undertook to take the guest home. When he reached home accompanied by the guest, he learned from his wife that there was nothing for the guest to eat at home. Only a little food was available, which was to suffice for their children only. Despite this disappointing news from his wife, he was not worried at all and his strong desire for hospitality was not affected at all. To his wife, he said, “It is our children we are worried about most, but you can put them to sleep with some love

and affection while they are still hungry.” But still, there remained one difficulty that as it was customary, the guest would insist the hosts to dine with him because until that time – the injunction about purdah had not yet been revealed. The solution to this problem was thought out in that when the husband and wife would sit to dine with the guest, the wife was to get up to set the lamp and extinguish it. Then both the hosts would move their mouths as if they were eating, but in reality, they would be eating nothing. In this manner, the guest would be able to eat to his fill. This selfless family followed the plan. They made their children go to sleep on an empty stomach. The wife put out the lamp and the husband and wife sat down with the guest and showed that they also ate. Thus, the family remained hungry and the guest had his fill. The Almighty Allah loved this action of theirs so much that he revealed it to the Holy Prophetsa. The next morning, the Holy Prophetsa called for Hazrat Talhahra and laughingly asked him how he had accommodated the guest. Upon receiving the reply, the Holy Prophetsa said, “Allah laughed at your treatment to the guest and that is why I am also laughing.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Ashribah, Bab Ikram al-Zaif wa Fazli Isarihi) Our friends should reflect upon this incident and see how difficult hospitality is with sacrifices. Though remaining hungry and skipping one meal can either be seen as not easy or not a huge challenge for those given to fasting, but everyone will admit that to keep young children hungry

voluntarily is something which proves how important hospitality was for our noble elders. The Companions’ hospitality was not confined to guests only; it was extended to foes as well, so much so that even prisoners of war were treated in the like manner. Hospitality for prisoners of war Abu Uzair bin Umair, who became a prisoner of war in the Battle of Badr, says that the Ansar would give him baked bread to eat whereas they would survive on dates. Many a time it so happened that even if they got a small piece of bread, they would offer it to him instead of taking it themselves. He says, “They would insist if I resisted.” (Sirat Ibn Hisham, Zikr Ghazwah Badr Maqtal alNazr wa ‘Aqbah, Vol. 1, p. 645) If the prisoners of war had no clothes to wear, Muslims would provide them with clothes. This character of the Muslims is something which has been appreciated by the bitterest foes of Islam. Sir William Muir writes to the effect: “As Muhammad had directed, the Ansar and Muhajireen would treat the prisoners of war with love and kindness. Some prisoners of war themselves testified that God might have mercy on the Medinites who would mount them and themselves walk; feed them cooked bread of wheat and themselves subsist on dates.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, p. 155) (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Jihad, Bab Alkiswatu lil-Asari) Those who treated their prisoners of war in such a manner, their treatment of their guests cannot be questioned. Once, three guests from Bani ‘Azrah

came to Medina. The Holy Prophetsa enquired as to who would entertain them. Hazrat Talhahra stood up and undertook to entertain them. He took them to his house, and the guests stayed with him as long as he lived. And never he considered them a burden on himself and tried to shed it off. He treated them so well that they never realised that they were at an unfamiliar place. (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 3, p. 19, Hadith No. 1401, Musnad Abi Muhammad Talhah bin Ubaidullah) Enjoyment in hosting guests Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas‘udra loved to entertain guests and enjoyed hosting them. He had specified a grand house in Kufa for his guests. (Tarikh al-Tabari, Vol. 4, p. 273) The Holy Prophetsa would assign to the Companionsra the hospitality of delegations that came to visit him. Once, a Muslim delegation of Banu Abdul-Qais came to visit the Holy Prophetsa and he assigned their hospitality to the Ansar. The Ansar took their guests along with them. The next morning, when they came to the Holy Prophetsa, he asked them about the hospitality they received from their hosts. They replied, “O Prophetsa of God, they are very nice people. They gave us soft beddings, provided us delicious food and then the whole night, they instructed us in the Book and the sunnah.” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 3, p. 432) Very regrettably, in the presence of such remarkable characters of our noble elders, the Muslims of today are bereft of this noble trait. Though there are hospitable people among them, but being of only a small number, they are almost non-existent. An understandable reason for this is that our Islamic culture has lost its simplicity. The non-ostentation and modesty demonstrated in the lives of the past lovers of faith is missing from our lives. Pretention and showing off has so terribly entangled us that we have made the most expensive goods and the best foods an integral part of hospitality. We consider it a slight and indignity of ours to provide the guest with the routine food that is cooked at our homes normally. Such thoughts have so firmly ingrained in our minds that we do not mind the deprivation from the bliss of hospitality and do not regret over it at all and never present to the guest whatever meal is available and thus be able to earn the merit of hospitality without any burden. Of course, better arrangements for hospitality for a man of means are meritorious and such a person should respect their guest in this way as well. But it never means that one should forsake hospitality in the absence of better provisions. If our friends remember it well and freeing themselves of formalities and showing off, practice modesty and unpretentiousness, then definitely, on the one hand, will they earn the merit of hospitality, but on the other, they will not have to bear extraordinary burden to earn it. (Translated by Shahid Mahmood Ahmad, Missionary in Ghana, from the original Urdu, Muslim Nau-jawanon kay Sunehri Karnamey)

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

100 Years Ago...

How to obtain peace of mind Below is a comprehensive answer written in reply to an enquirer by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in Urdu and translated into English by M Ali Muhammad BA BT (Editor, The Review of Religions)

The Review of Religions (English), April 1921

There is such a thing as a prescription for the peace of mind, and hundreds, and at times, thousands of people have tried it and found it useful. Peace of mind means freedom from cares and protection from the danger of ruin. Those who boast of its acquisition do not really possess it but have only become callous to pain and trouble. They may be likened to a child who tries to awaken his dead mother and misinterpreting her silence as a smile bursts into laughter. True peace of mind has its foundation in reason. Let us take an example. Two persons travel through a plaguestricken district and both are feeling secure; one because he believes that everything is controlled by destiny and that one’s sickness cannot pass to another. But his sense of

security is a delusion due to ignorance. The other man has his mind at rest because he has undergone inoculation which has more than once proved to be preventive of the disease for a certain period. So both feel secure but the former’s sense of security leads him to ruin while that of the latter is based on verified facts. The sense of security is therefore both false and true, and only the latter should be sought after. As a matter of fact, no human being is free from pain and trouble, be he a prophet or a politician, a scientist or a seer. Troubles have been spared neither to kings nor to prophets, and it is well known that physical conditions particularly affect mental peace. Now the question is, whether it is possible to acquire peace of mind under these circumstances.

I do believe that it is possible of attainment for it is not the physical pain but the apprehension of its consequences that causes uneasiness. A hardship which is considered to be a steppingstone to further progress does not disturb our peace of mind. Every work of responsibility is attended with a good deal of trouble and anxiety but those who take pride in their mental attainments seek out for themselves tasks that fit in with their high intellects and are not daunted by the obstacles that come in their way. Hence, every trouble does not destroy our internal peace but only that which a man thinks is the sure cause of his destruction. A pain or grief which he thinks will finally result in something good for him does not at all disturb his peace; rather it strengthens it. If a man is exposed throughout his life to

privations and hardships such as are likely to produce good results for him, he does not lose his mental peace; he loses it only when he is not sure of his end or is doubtful about his mission in the world. Consequently, we find Godly and Godfearing persons always happy at heart, notwithstanding severe hardships and insurmountable difficulties in their way. Not only do their faces show signs of happiness, but their hearts are full of bliss and certainty, which have their foundation in reason and are not the result of ignorance, for they have found out God the Almighty Who is the fountain head of all blessings, Who controls every atom of the universe, and Who possesses the power to remove all troubles. They do not look at Him from a distance, rather they have found a way whereby to attain His pleasure and attract His love. Nothing overawes them, or disturbs their peace of mind. They know that He controls the universe and that He loves them and to Him they entrust everything. So the afflictions they are subjected to are not meant to bring about their destruction, for who can suffer to see his beloved one perish. No doubt God does not generally interfere with the laws of nature, having left the world to work out its own salvation, but everything has its limits. He cannot suffer to see His dear ones perish for nothing and accorded the same treatment as is meted out to His enemies. So on every occasion when their own power of resistance fails, He sends them help and vouchsafes to them His protection. And to those upon whom He chooses to send down continuous calamities, He vouchsafes certainty and knowledge to such a degree that all doubts are kept at a distance. They regard these cares and trials as a source of blessings for themselves and this is not due to any flight of imagination but is the outcome of real perfect certainty. Such people cannot be said to be suffering. They are above all cares. They look upon worldly calamities with a scornful smile while its vicissitudes can hardly affect them. Their share of pains is far greater than that of other people, so that God may show the strength of their mind to the world and give proof of His own power. Apparently they seem to be suffering but their hearts are full of joy. Moreover they suffer for the sake of others, and to suffer for others is a pleasure in itself. So they are twice pleased, firstly because they know they are suffering for others and secondly because they are secure against any danger of ruin. Men of this class have their anxiety and grief removed in extraordinary ways, with the result that their faith is ever increasing. I may relate here my personal experience. A few months back a person reported the death of a certain doctor in Mesopotamia. No serious attention was paid to the report as letters had been received from the said doctor himself only a short time before. But later accounts, private as well as official, confirmed the report. I [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra] was troubled at heart on the receipt of these Continued on next page >>

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

letters and my grief was intensified to find the Ahmadi medical students of Amritsar disheartened on account of the sad incident. The said doctor was gifted with charming manners and had only recently left his college. How keenly I felt the sudden and premature death of the young doctor who was the only son of his aged parents, and how I wished for his life! In this state of mind, I went to sleep and was at once assured that the doctor was alive and that I had been misinformed. When I woke up, I was reassured, but wondered how the dead man could come to life. After a week or more, a [relative of the doctor] came to me and said that a telegram had been received from him to the effect that he was alive and that there was nothing to be anxious about. Later reports showed that he had been taken for dead by mistake, while as a matter of fact he had fallen into the hands of the Bedouins, who kept him prisoner for a considerable time, but at last he managed to make good his escape. This is only one of the numerous ways by which the Compassionate and Merciful God assures His lovers of His existence. Theirs are lives of happiness. Every trial adds to their faith and makes it firmer, because they witness one more proof of their protector’s power. There is only one way to attain peace of mind, and that is to attain union with that Great Being Who is the Creator and Controller of all those causes which bring about pain or loss to human beings. The changes in the universe are too numerous for the greatest of scientists to control. He is, as it were, only gathering pebbles on the shore of knowledge. He has neither himself attained to mental peace, nor can he impart it to others. Wealth cannot give him peace of mind, nor honour, skill, power or knowledge. All these things are limited and each one of them brings a new trial in its train. If one gives comfort, the other gives pain. The question, then, remains, how to attain this degree, how to assure oneself of God’s existence and how to get internal peace. I declare that to attain union with God there is only one door open – belief in and faithful adherence to the Islamic teachings as expounded by Hazrat Mirza Gulam Ahmad of Qadian, peace be on him. Reason is one way for the attainment of this object as it leads a seeker after truth to certainty. Another way is to keep company with a Godly person whose attention and care remove a lot of doubts without logical reasoning. One who honestly uses these two means can easily verify the truth of Islam and of the Ahmadiyya movement. His faith is then founded on reason and arguments and not on mere supposition. Again, he can attain to this stage by practicing Islamic injunctions. After this stage has been attained a man becomes secure against fire and acquires a certain and sure degree of mental peace. The Almighty God has already made it easy of attainment. (Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original article in The Review of Religions [English], April 1921)

The Promised Mess worldwide Sinoko and Nairobi Tahir Ahmad Machengo, Kenya Correspondent

waiting for a spiritual reformer. That spiritual reformer is only one person who is meant to come and reform all mankind, and he is Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, so it is incumbent on us to accept him, for no other person will ever bodily descend from heaven. A total of 68 people attended the event. Alhamdulillah. On 27 March 2021, a Jalsa was held by the Nairobi Jamaat, in which Sheikh Rashid Oduma Sahib presented a speech, titled “History of Jalsa Yaum-e Masih-eMaud”. Another speech was presented by Abdulhamid Gamanga Sahib, about the great sign of the solar and lunar eclipse for the veracity of the Promised Messiahas. In closing remarks, Tariq Mahmood Zafar Sahib, Amir and Missionary-incharge Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kenya urged members to pray for the whole world. The jalsa concluded with silent prayer. The event was attended by more than 60 people.

Columbus, USA Syed Shamshad Nasir Missionary, USA

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Sinoko and Nairobi held their jalsas to commemorate Promised Messiah Day. Sinoko jamaat held it on 22March 2021. The event commenced with recitation of the Holy Quran with translation, followed by a poem. In attendance were the local area chief and two pastors from the neighbouring area, among others. Sadr Jamaat Sinoko, Saleh Muhammad Sahib welcomed all attendees and invited some of the guests to say a few words. Speeches were delivered on an array of topics including “The second Jesusas has already come” by Mzee Asman Lusweti Sahib. Saleh Muhammad Sahib’s speech was on “Islam the true Religion”. Then, a faith-inspiring speech was delivered by the Muallim-in-charge Sinoko Jamaat. In his speech on “Muhammadsa in the Bible and the second coming of Jesusas”, muallim Abdallah Wanyasi Sahib elaborated the real meaning of the second coming of the messiah. He made it clear that all major religions of the world are

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Columbus, USA held its Jalsa Yaum-e-Masih-e-Maud via Zoom on 21 March 2021. The programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a poem from Durr-e-Sameen. The president of the Columbus jamaat, Rafi Malik Sahib moderated the session. In his opening remarks, he explained

that we commemorate 23 March as the Promised Messiah Day as 23 March 1889, is a significant day in our Jamaat. This is when Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the Promised Messiah took the first bai’at and our Jamaat was founded. Regional missionary, Syed Shamshad

Ahmad Nasir Sahib talked about the significance of this day. He said that it is our responsibility to continue the Promised Messiah’s mission of peace, justice, respect, understanding and brotherhood. In his presentation, Nasir Khan Sahib talked about the progress our Jamaat has made since its inception. Javed Malik Sahib read the Ten Conditions of Ba’iat in Urdu and English while Athar Ashraf Sahib talked about tarbiyyat aspects. Dr Ahsan Syed Sahib, local Secretary Umur-e-Ama gave updates about the Covid-19 situation and vaccination as well as the local mosque reopening status. The local president presented some local updates and talked about the expectations of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa considering Huzoor’s exhortations in This Week with Huzoor episodes and encouraged members to sincerely pay heed to Huzoor’s advises. There were 55 individual logins to the Zoom session. Many members called in as family units and the total number of attendees is estimated to be over 150.

Dallas, USA Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Dallas, USA held Masih-e-Maud Day Jalsa on 21 March 2021, via Zoom. The Jalsa started with the recitation of the Holy Quran with translation, followed by a poem from Durr-e-Sameen, with its English translation as well. The first speaker was Khaleeq Rehman Sahib, and the topic of his speech was “The Significance of 23 March 1889”. He explained in detail the background related to this day in the Jamaat’s history. Sheraz Ahmed Sahib spoke on the topic of “Beliefs and responsibilities as an Ahmadi to fulfill”. He explained the beliefs as stated by the Promised Messiahas and also reminded us what the Promised Messiahas expected from all of us by presenting ten conditions of bai‘at. The last speech was delivered by Suhail Kausar Sahib, on the topic of “The Promised Messiahas and the Revival of Islam”. He explained the topic in detail using references from the Holy Quran, ahadith and the writings of the Promised Messiahas. At the end, Sadr Dallas Jamaat, Dr Hamid Sheikh Sahib highlighted the importance of this day. We had 105 participants during the Jalsa.

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021

siah Day commemorated Huddersfield, UK Aamir Shahzad President Huddersfield South Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Huddersfield South and North both organised an online jalsa on 27 March 2021. The jalsa started with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem. A presentation was shown, explaining how and when the first bai‘at took place in time of the Promised Messiahas. Then, three speakers delivered very inspirational speeches which covered the high moral and spiritual character of the Promised Messiahas as a perfect follower of his master, the Holy Prophetsa. Then, Aamir Shahzad Sahib, local jamaat president, read out the Ten Conditions of Bai‘at. The second speech was delivered by Sabahat Karim Sahib, Regional Missionary, in which he presented a brief family background of the Promised Messiahas and the love of the Promised Messiahas for Allah. He also read out a few revelations of the Promised Messiahas. The final speech was delivered by the guest speaker, Waseem Fazal Sahib, in which he presented a few incidents from the life of the Promised Messiahas which shed light on how beautifully he followed the perfect example of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. This blessed jalsa concluded with silent prayer.

Freeport, Trinidad Adila Yacoob Trinidad & Tobago During the month of March, Jalsa Masih-e-Maud Day takes place at a national level, but due to the Covid-19 restrictions, all national programmes were cancelled. Amir Sahib Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Trinidad, Ibrahim bin Yaqub Sahib announced that all jamaat programmes are to be held locally. Abiding by the Covid-19 restrictions, most local jamaats managed to host their own jalsas, including Caratal, Valencia and Freeport. In Freeport, the Jalsa was held on 18 March 2021, at Masjid Nasir. There was a total attendance of 38 members. The programme began after the Maghrib and

Isha prayers, with recitation of the Holy Quran with translation. This was then followed by a poem with its translation. Next was Nasirat and Atfal presentations on various excerpts on the life of the Promised Messiahas, followed by the concluding address on “The significance of the Promised Messiah Day in the history of Islam”, by our muallim, Nasir Yacoob Sahib. The programme concluded with silent prayer, and refreshments were also served. Alhamdulillah, it was a very successful event. May Allah the Almighty enable us to follow the footsteps of the Promised Messiahas and to fulfil the pledge which we all made at the hand of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. Amin

Kosovo Besmir Yvejsi Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Kosovo As in every country of the world where Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya is located, Jamaat Kosovo also celebrated 23 March as Promised Messiah Day. Due to the state restrictions regarding gatherings, Jamaat Kosovo has tried its best to respect the rules set by the health institutions and by keeping distance and face masks, successfully celebrated the Promised Messiah Day. In the capital of Kosovo, Prishtina, on 28 March 2021, an event was held to commemorate the life and the works of the Promised Messiahas. This event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran with Albanian translation. Next, a passage was read about the love of the Promised Messiahas for the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. The first speech, titled “God’s help for the Promised Messiahas”, was delivered by the local muallim. Afterwards, another speech was presented, which spoke about the second coming of the Messiah. This event, by the grace of Allah the Exalted, was successfully concluded with silent prayer led by Amir Sahib. After the event, Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered, and dinner was served to all present. A total of 29 people participated in this event.

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

Inauguration of new mission house in London, views of famous newspapers and letter of an attendee Al Fazl, 28 March 1921 peace and contentment opens through Islam. C o n s e q u e n t l y, Islam is the representative of all other religions and fulfills their purposes. In the same way, Prophet Muhammadsa is the representative of all other prophets and the one who fulfills their purposes and objectives in the world. In this age, Prophet Ahmadas is the living example of Islam and the hujjat [conclusive argument] against the disbelievers was fulfilled through him. Its practical representation can be seen in the Recently discovered photo of Chief Oluwa of Lagos, Nigeria with Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra at Melrose Road, London Ahmadiyya Jamaat. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad the problems of India, Britain and all other him in his speech and said: Sayalra (1887-1960) “You may lead the way and I will help nations of the world will be solved today with you there [in Africa] to the fullest possible the help of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat through The highlight of this report (5 to 16 February extent.” Islamic principles, as the differences and [1920]) is the inaugural jalsa of our new In addition, letters of apologies were problems of the Arabs were settled through maqam-e-tabligh [mission house] which received from Prof Brown of Cambridge, the idea of Islamic brotherhood. was successful in every way, by the grace of whose research and works have slowed Thereafter, I talked about the organised God Almighty. This jalsa was to be held on 6 the pace of the Bábi Faith in Europe and system of the Jamaat and how the February [1920], as has been mentioned in America and Lord Farooq Headley, for Ahmadiyya Jamaat is working under one previous [reports]. not being able to come due to their busy Khalifa like the Companionsra [of the Holy Its preparations began around two weeks schedule. Prophetsa]. prior to the event and people interested in Speech of Maulvi Nayyar Sahib Speech of the chairperson Islam and its activities were invited from Aft er [my speech], Nayyar Sahib delivered London [in particular] and [other places Prof Haroun Mustafa Leon [AKA Abdullah his farewell speech and thanked all the of] England as well. Famous Indian, Hindu Quilliam], who was the chairperson, said in friends who treated him kindly during his and Muslim friends of England were also his speech: stay in London. He said: “Although I am not a member of the invited. “It was a pleasure for me to come to this Around 70 to 80 guests attended [the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, but there is no denying country. For me, living here has also been a jalsa], including representatives of some the fact that it is very hard to find a parallel source of happiness because by the grace of well-known newspapers, secretaries and of the planning and organised manner with God Almighty, I had a great opportunity to presidents of some societies, Prof Leon, who which the Ahmadiyya Jamaat is currently carry out tabligh. With this, I say goodbye is an old and experienced Muslim, Sir TW working in Islamic countries. I have been to this country and my friends here, so that Arnold, who is the author of the famous well acquainted with this Jamaat for a long I can spread the word of Allah in other book, The Preaching of Islam and has a time now, and I consider the founder of this countries as well. ” special interest in Islamic activities and a Jamaat to be a special friend of God and a Thereafter, Brother Khalid Sheldrake new convert Ahmadi Muslim, Mr Khalid servant of Islam.” delivered a speech. After him, Brother Sheldrake. Apart from all these friends, the Speech of the Ahmadiyya missionary Muhammad Abdul L’Awel Augusto Chino participation of the Chief Oluwa of Lagos is Oluwa delivered a welcome speech for Aft er [the statement of the chairperson], I particularly noteworthy. Maulvi Abdul Rahim Sahib on behalf of the said in my speech that Islam is the true reSince this jalsa was also a farewell for Muslims of Lagos and then the jalsa was ligion of mankind. Th e path to harmony, Brother Nayyar Sahib, the chief addressed concluded with a silent prayer.

A great number of high gentries were also present in the jalsa. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, all of them left with positive impressions. Some of them told me that their views on Islam had changed completely and also promised to study further [about Islam]. Views of newspaper Accounts of this jalsa were published in the famous newspapers of London in the following way. The newspaper, Wandsworth, under the headline “A mosque in Putney,” wrote: “On Sunday, an inaugural gathering for a mosque was held at No. 63 Melrose Road. Indian, Persian, Nigerian and European Muslims participated in it and all of them were wearing their national costumes. The site and the house, which are now being used for the objectives of Islam, have been purchased by the Ahmadiyya Movement. Their headquarters is located in Qadian, India. There is an acre of land with the house in which the mosque will be built. In addition to other people at the gathering on Sunday, the following persons were also present: “Sir TW Arnold author of the famous book, The Preaching of Islam; Chief Oluwa of Lagos; Prof Leon; Khalid Sheldrake; Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal; Maulvi Abdul Rahim Nayyar and Maulvi Mubarak Ali, secretary of London Jamaat.” In its issue 7 February [1921], The Times of London said: “Yesterday, imams, missionaries and members of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat of London invited people to the opening ceremony of a house. This relatively large house, located in a small orchard, has been recently bought by the Ahmadiyya Movement. It is hoped that a mosque will soon be built in the orchard. Mr Abdul Rahim Nayyar, who is about to leave for West Africa on an Islamic mission, made a farewell speech. Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal, Prof Leon and Oluwa of Lagos were present [in the gathering].” The Daily Graphic newspaper, in its 7 February [1921] issue, under “Islam in the suburbs of London,” wrote: “Yesterday, on Sunday, the people of Africa and India were present in their typical clothes at the inaugural gathering of a new Islamic mission [house]. Around 50 to 60 English men and women were also present. The London Jamaat has bought a house and a large piece of land for the tabligh of Islam. They intend to soon build an Islamic worship place over here, in which they will offer prayers as per Islamic practice. One of the most famous followers of Islam in this country is Lord Headley. Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal, one of the speakers of yesterday, said, ‘The unity between India and England can only be established with the help of the Ahmadiyya Movement.’” The Morning Post, under the heading “Religion of Islam in England”, said: “Yesterday, a gathering was held at No. 63 Melrose Road on the occasion of the inauguration of Ahmadiyya Islamic [mission house]. The Ahmadiyya Movement was founded about 40 years ago in Qadian, Punjab, India. Ahmad of Qadian, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, claimed

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021 to be the Messiah and the reformer. It is suggested that the foundation of a mosque be laid on the land adjacent to the house. “After the welcome address for guests, Prof Haroun Mustafa said in his speech, ‘Islam was first preached in England about 40 years ago. It commenced from Liverpool. There is no concept of family priests in Islam. Only certain men are elected [by God] for this work. However, every person is responsible for his or her own salvation.’ Maulvi Muhammad Sayal said that he stood up to call people to Islam and Ahmadiyyat. He believes that Islam is the essence of all religions and Ahmadiyyat is the essence of Islam.” In addition, The Daily Mirror, an illustrated newspaper, has published photographs. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, owing to the mention of our new mission house in the said jalsa and in the newspapers, it has become famous all over London and England. All praise belongs to Allah Who made it all possible! A letter In this jalsa, non-Ahmadi Indian Muslims were also present. One of them, a graduate of University of London, after he returned from the jalsa, wrote the following letter: “Dear brother! Before I write about other things, I would like to say that I was very impressed with your lecture last night. This is not the first time I have had the privilege of listening to your lecture. I attend almost all the lectures held at Hyde Park but unfortunately, I have never had such an opportunity before to meet you [as I did at the jalsa]. “Brother, you are my guide. You are the guiding star for me. I confess to you without hesitation that although I am a Muslim by birth, I do not consider myself a true Muslim due to my long exile. The constant suffering and frustrations that have befallen me in my life have shattered my faith. However, now, I sincerely ask forgiveness from my Creator and I hope that Allah may accept my supplication. “Would you please give me a chance to meet you this week because I want to talk to you on various subjects? Please schedule this meeting around Salat timings. I will bring Muhammad Khan (BK Singh) with me. He is very eager to meet you. “Yours obediently, S […] Majeed “P.S. I think we should establish centres in England, Scotland and Africa for tabligh. There should be at least five or six centres in London.” Members of the Jamaat are requested to pray that may Allah the Almighty make this new markaz of Islam the centre of victory of Islam in the West. Apart from our usual lectures, Maulvi Mubarak Ali Sahib gave a lecture on Women’s Education at a women’s society in London. Another lecture on The Problems of India and Their Solutions was held in Folkestone, in which it was expressed that the cure for India’s problems is Islam, which will lead to the establishment of one religion, one nation and one language. (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 28 March 1921 issue of Al Fazl)

100 Years Ago...

Huzoor announces great victory for Ahmadiyyat in Africa at the hand of Nayyar Al Fazl, 31 March 1921 Brothers! Assalamo alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu! All members of the Jamaat will be delighted to hear this news that Master Abdur Rahim [Nayyar] Sahib, who was sent to carry out tabligh in West Africa, has achieved great success over there. Christians in that country have converted millions of people to Christianity. More than one-third of the people have converted to Christianity, while some still practice their old religion of idolatry and some are Muslims. In order to distract Muslims, the priests have been raising concerns in the European newspapers for a long time that the people of Africa are converting to Islam. However, in reality, this statement was a mere deception. Most of the people of Uganda have

become Christians and except for one, all of the chiefs have converted to Christianity. In West Africa, where Master Sahib has now been sent to carry out tabligh, 53 percent of the population was Muslim in the year 1901. By the year 1910, the population of Muslims had dropped to 49 percent. It shows that in the last 10 years, one-tenth of the Muslim population has become Christian. This means that if Christianity continues to progress at this rate, all the Muslims will disappear from that country in 70 to 80 years and the whole country will convert to Christianity. Christianity is spreading far more rapidly in the population of idolaters. Hence, in a country with a population of about 3 million, Islam was in grave danger and on learning of this, I sent Master Abdur Rahim Sahib, a former Ahmadi missionary

in London, to carry out tabligh over there. I was certain that by the grace of Allah the Almighty, Islam would surely prevail in that country because the people there are divided into tribes like the Arabs. It was hoped that if one man would accept the truth, thousands of other people [of his tribe] would accept the truth as well, so this is exactly what happened. Today, this good news has been received from Master Abdur Rahim Sahib Nayyar by telegram that 4,000 non-Muslims have converted to Islam and they are requesting for bai‘at. Thus, I am publishing this news as an announcement for the information of members of the Jamaat and to encourage them to pray. Friends should especially pray for their missionary brothers and contribute as much as they can with a part of their wealth to the growing work of tabligh, for in this age, there is no other work more blessed and worthy of reward than this. May Allah the Almighty provide the means for the dominance of Islam by Himself. Khaksar, Mirza Mahmud Ahmad [Khalifatul Masih II]. 29 March 1921, Qadian. (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 31 March 1921 issue of Al Fazl)

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 5 March 2021 Men of Excellence: Hazrat Uthmanra ibn Affan After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

I was narrating accounts about the discord and rebellion that arose in the time of Hazrat Uthmanra. I will mention what Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has stated regarding this. Most of the references have been taken from Tabari and then Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has presented his own viewpoint on the matter. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “Besides these three”, i.e. Muhammad bin Abi Bakr, Muhammad bin Huzayfah and Ammar bin Yasir, “who came under the influence of the rebels and sided with them, no one in Medina – be it a Companion or anyone else – held any sympathy for the rebels. Everyone would send curses upon the rebels and reproach them, but since they did not have any control over the affairs, therefore these rebels did not show any care. For up to 20 days the rebels tried to convince Hazrat Uthmanra to somehow step down from Khilafat through dialogue alone. However, Hazrat Uthmanra plainly refused and said, ‘Neither can I remove the cloak which God the Exalted, has clothed me with, nor can I leave the people of Muhammadsa unsheltered so that anyone who wishes may oppress another.’ Hazrat Uthmanra continued to admonish the rebels to refrain from creating conflict and went on to say, ‘Today, these people create disorder and detest my very existence. But when I shall be no more, they shall wish, “If only each and every day of the life of Uthman was transformed into one year each and would that he had not departed from us so soon.” For after me there shall be severe bloodshed, rights shall be violated and governance shall take a completely different turn.’” As such, in the Banu Umayyah period, Khilafat was replaced by secular rule and these rebels were given such harsh punishments that they forgot all their mischief. “After 20 days had elapsed, the rebels thought that a quick decision was required, lest the armies from the surrounding provinces arrived and they were made to suffer the consequences of their actions.” They knew that they were in the wrong and that majority of the Muslims were with Hazrat Uthmanra. “For this reason, they stopped Hazrat Uthmanra from leaving his house and also

forbade the transfer of food and drink into his house. They thought that perhaps in this manner, Hazrat Uthmanra would be compelled to accept their demands.” However, Hazrat Uthmanra had already told them he would not remove the cloak that Allah the Almighty bestowed to him. “The administration of Medina was now in their hands. They collectively accepted

Ghafiqi, the commander of the Egyptian armies, as their commander in chief. So, it was as if Ghafiqi was the ruler of Medina at the time; Ashtar commanded the army of Kufa and Hakim bin Jabalah” – the same robber who had been imprisoned in Basra, on the order of Hazrat Uthmanra, for robbing the wealth of non-Muslim subjects – “commanded the army of Basra, under the

leadership of Ghafiqi.” Hakim bin Jabalah and Ashtar both worked under Ghafiqi. “Once again, this proves that the rebels of Egypt were the root cause of this conflict, where Abdullah bin Saba was at work. Ghafiqi would lead the prayers in Masjid-eNabawi while the companions of the Holy Prophetsa would either remain locked up in their homes or would be compelled to offer prayers behind him. The rebels did not cause people much hindrance until they decided to lay siege upon the house of Hazrat Uthmanra. However, as soon as they laid siege [upon his house], they began to oppress other people as well. Instead of being Dar-ul-Aman [the House of Peace], Medina had now become Dar-ul-Harb [the House of War]. The respect and honour of the people of Medina was in danger; no one would step out of his house unarmed and the rebels would kill anyone who confronted them. “When the rebels had surrounded Hazrat Uthmanra and even went so far as to stop water from entering [his house], he sent a neighbour’s son to Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Talhara, Hazrat Zubairra and the noble wives of the Holy Prophetsa for assistance, saying, ‘The rebels have even cut our water supply. If you are able to do something, then please arrange for water to be conveyed to us.’ “From among the men, Hazrat Alira was the first to arrive. He admonished the rebels saying: “‘What sort of a behaviour have you adopted? Your actions neither resemble those of the believers, nor the disbelievers. Do not prevent food and drink from entering the house of Hazrat Uthmanra. Even the Romans and Persians provide their prisoners with food and water. According to Islamic practice, your conduct is not acceptable in the least. Besides, what harm has Hazrat Uthmanra done to you that you deem it permissible to imprison him and kill him?’ “This admonition of Hazrat Alira had no influence on them whatsoever. They plainly said, ‘Whatever the case may be, we shall not allow food or water to reach him.’ This was the reply the rebels gave to the person who they deemed to be the wasi of the Holy Prophetsa and his true successor.” The rebels used to claim that Hazrat Alira was the

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021 rightful successor to the Holy Prophetsa and this is the reply they gave to him. “After this reply, does the need for any other testimony remain in order to prove that this party, who declared Hazrat Alira to be the wasi, had not left their homes in support of the truth or out of their love for the ahl-e-bait; rather, only to fulfil their base desires? “From among the noble wives of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Umm Habibahra was the first to come to the aid of Hazrat Uthmanra. Mounted on a mule, she brought a water-skin along with her. However, her real objective was to safeguard all the wills of the orphans and widows that belonged to the Banu Umayyah, which were in the possession of Hazrat Uthmanra. When she saw that the rebels had stopped the water supply of Hazrat Uthmanra, she became fearful that they might destroy these wills as well and thus desired to somehow safeguard these documents. After all, there were other means by which she could have delivered the water. When Hazrat Umm Habibahra reached the door of Hazrat Uthmanra, just as the rebels were about to stop her, the people exclaimed, ‘This is Umm-ul-Momineen, Umm Habibahra.’ “However, the rebels still persisted and started beating her mule. Umm-ulMomineen, Umm Habibahra explained, ‘I fear lest the wills of the orphans and widows of the Banu Umayyah should be destroyed. For this reason, I wish to go inside in order to arrange for their safekeeping.’ “However, these wretched people replied to the blessed wife of the Holy Prophetsa, ‘You are lying.’ The rebels then attacked her mule and cut the straps of its packsaddle. The saddle fell to one side. Hazrat Umm Habibahra was on the verge of falling off and being martyred under the feet of the rebels, but a few people of Medina, who were close by, dashed to her aid and escorted her home. “This was the treatment which they meted out to the blessed wife of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Umm Habibahra possessed such profound loyalty and love for the Holy Prophetsa that after a separation of about 15 to 16 years, when her father, who was the chief of Arabia and held the position of a king in Mecca, came to Medina on a special political mission and came to meet her, she pulled away the bedding of the Holy Prophetsa from beneath him”; when her father was about to sit down on the sheet, she pulled it away from underneath him. “This was because she could not bear to see the pure cloth of the Messengersa of Allah touch the impure body of an idolater.” She did not even let her father sit on it. “It is surprising that in the absence of Muhammadsa, the Messenger of Allah, Hazrat Umm Habibahra safeguarded the sanctity of even his cloth, whereas these rebels did not even show veneration to the revered wife of Muhammadsa, the Messenger of Allah, in his absence. These foolish people said that the wife of the Holy Prophetsa was a liar, even though she was correct in her statement. Hazrat Uthmanra was the guardian of the orphans of Banu Umayyah. On seeing their growing enmity, her concern that the wealth of the orphans and widows may go to waste was correct. The true liars were those who took up the task of destroying the faith whilst claiming to love Muhammadsa, the Messenger of Allah; not Umm Habibahra, Umm-ul-Momineen.

“When news of the treatment meted out to Hazrat Umm Habibahra spread throughout Medina, the companions and residents of Medina were left shocked. They understood that now it was useless to hope of any good to come from the rebels. It was at this very time that Hazrat Aishara decided to go for Hajj and she began to make preparations for the journey. “When people learned that she was about to leave Medina, some of them requested that if she remained behind, perhaps this would be conducive to bringing an end to the conflict and the rebels would take heed. However, she refused saying, ‘Do you want me to receive the same treatment as Umm Habibahra. By God! I cannot put my honour at risk” as she was [a symbol of] the honour of the Holy Prophetsa. “If I am targeted in any way, what will be the means of my protection? Only God knows the extent to which the rebels will grow in their mischief and what will be their outcome.’ “Just as Hazrat Aisha Siddiqahra was leaving she devised a strategy; had it succeeded, this conflict may have been suppressed to some extent. She sent a message to her brother, Muhammad bin Abi Bakr”, who owing to his naivety or being of weak faith had joined with the rebels, “that he should also accompany her to perform Hajj, but he refused. Upon this, Hazrat Aishara said, ‘What am I to do? I am helpless. If I had the strength, I would never allow these rebels to succeed in their designs.’ “Hazrat Aishara had gone for Hajj and some companions, who were able to leave Medina, also left. The remaining people, except for a few prominent companions, remained in their homes. Ultimately, even Hazrat Uthmanra felt that the rebels would not settle through leniency and he dispatched a letter to all the provincial governors, the summary of which is as follows: “‘After Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, without any desire or request of my own, I was included among those who were entrusted the duty of holding counsel regarding Khilafat.’” Hazrat Uthmanra stated this in the letter he wrote. “‘Then, I was elected to the office of Khilafat without any desire or request of my own. Without fail, I continued the works which the previous Khulafara undertook, and I did not introduce any innovations in the faith of my own accord. However, the seed of evil was planted into the hearts of certain people, mischief arose and then they began to plot against me; they expressed one thing before the people, while concealing another thing in their hearts. These people began to level such accusations against me as were levelled against the Khulafara before me as well. However, I remained silent despite knowing of this. Taking advantage of my mercy, these people grew even more in their mischief. Ultimately, they attacked Medina in the likeness of disbelievers. So, if there is anything you can do then please arrange for some help.’ “Similarly, a few days later, Hazrat Uthmanra wrote a letter to the people who had come to perform Hajj. The gist of [this letter] is: “‘I draw your attention towards God the Exalted and remind you of His favours. At this time, certain people are creating mischief and are engaged in attempts to cause divide in Islam. However, these people

have not even taken into consideration that God appoints the Khalifa, just as He says: ٰ َ َ َ ٰ ّٰ ‫اللّ ُہ الَّذیْ َن ٰا َمن ُ ْوا م ْن ُک ْم َو َعم ُلوا‬ ‫ت‬ ‫وعد‬ ِ ‫الص ِلح‬ َِ َ َِ ِ َْ ُ ْ ‫لی َ ْست ْخلِ َف ّنہ ْم ِفی الا‬ ‫ض‬ ‫ر‬ ِ “Meaning, ‘Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that He will surely make them Successors in the earth.’ [Ch.24: V.56] “‘Moreover, they did not value [the importance of] unity, even though God the Exalted has commanded: ّٰ ْ ‫َواع َت ِص ُم ْوا ِبحَ ْب ِل الل ِہ َج ِم ْی ًعا‬ “Meaning, ‘And hold fast all together by the rope of Allah.’ [Ch.3: V.104] “‘Furthermore, they accepted the words of those who accused me and did not pay heed to this command of the Holy Quran: ۤ ۡ ُ َّ َ َ َ َ َ ۢ ٌ َ ۡ ُ َ َ ۡ ۤ ۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َّ َ ُّ َ ٰۤ ‫یایہا ال ِذین امنوا اِن جآءکم فا ِسق بِنب ٍا فتبینوا‬ “Meaning, ‘O ye who believe! if an unrighteous person brings you any news, ascertain the correctness of the report fully.’ [Ch.49: V.7] “‘They did not honour their bai‘at to me, even though Allah the Exalted says with relation to the Holy Prophetsa: َّ َ َّ َ َ ّٰ ‫ا ِّن ال ِذیْ َن ی ُ َبایِ ُع ْونک اِن َما ی ُ َبایِ ُع ْو َن الل َہ‬ “Meaning, ‘Verily, those who swear allegiance to thee indeed swear allegiance to Allah.’ [Ch.48: V.11] “‘And I am a successor of the Noble Messengersa’”, i.e. Hazrat Uthmanra was the successor to the Holy Prophetsa and therefore this applies to him also. “‘No nation can progress without a leader and if there is no imam, then the community is destined to be ruined and destroyed. These people desire to destroy and ruin the Muslim ummah’”; these rebels wished to destroy and annihilate Islam. Hazrat Uthmanra further wrote, “‘This is their only objective because I accepted their wish and promised to change [various] governors but despite this, they did not seize making mischief. Now, they demand one out of three things.’” The rebels had given three options to Hazrat Uthmanra. “‘Firstly, they demand that revenge should be sought from me for all those people who have received punishment in my reign. If I do not agree, then I should step down from Khilafat and they will appoint someone else in my place. If I do not agree to this either, then they threaten that they will send a message to all their supporters to no longer be obedient to me’”; if Hazrat Uthmanra did not agree to this they threatened to stop obeying him. “‘The answer with respect to the first demand is that the Khulafara before me also committed judgmental errors but they were never punished.’” If there were any judgmental errors passed by the Khulafa previously, they were not punished for it. Hazrat Uthmanra also acted in the same manner. “‘Furthermore, what other motive besides killing me can there be in imposing so many punishments upon me.’” By making these demands of seeking revenge or punishment only means that the rebels wished to kill him. “‘As for my deposition from Khilafat, my reply is that if these people tear my flesh into bits with pincers, I can accept this, but I cannot step down from Khilafat.’” Since Allah the Almighty had bestowed him this cloak, he would never take it off. “‘Now remains the third point that they will send their men in all directions telling

people not to obey me. For this, I am not held responsible by God if they wish to act in violation of the Shariah. Even before, when they pledged allegiance to me, I did not compel them. Neither I, nor God the Exalted is pleased with the action of anyone who wishes to break his covenant.’” Hazrat Uthmanra said that he did not compel them to pledge allegiance to him previously, nor would he do so now. But he would not be pleased with their actions as they were wrong, nor would Allah be pleased with their actions. “‘Of course, such a person may do as he wishes on his own accord.’ [Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said:] “Since the days of Hajj were fast approaching and people were converging upon Mecca Mukarramah from all corners, Hazrat Uthmanra appointed Hazrat Abdullahra bin Abbas and dispatched him as the Amir for Hajj lest the rebels created disorder there as well. This way Hazrat Abdullahra bin Abbas could also urge the Muslims gathering for Hajj to assist the people of Medina. Even Hazrat Abdullahra bin Abbas submitted, ‘I would prefer to do jihad against these people.’” He said that he was being appointed as amir for the Hajj, but he desired to perform jihad against the rebels. “However, Hazrat Uthmanra compelled him to go for Hajj and discharge his duties as the amir for Hajj, in order to prevent the rebels from spreading their mischief there and also to urge the pilgrims gathering there to help the people of Medina. The abovementioned letter of Hazrat Uthmanra was sent along with him as well. When the rebels learned of these letters, they increased in their atrocities. They began to look for an excuse to fight so that they could martyr Hazrat Uthmanra. All their efforts, however, were in vain and Hazrat Uthmanra would not give them an opportunity to make mischief. “In the end, out of frustration, the scheme devised by the rebels was that they would stone the house of Hazrat Uthmanra at nightfall when everyone would fall asleep. In this manner, they would provoke the members of the household so that they too would throw stones in retaliation; so the rebels could say that they [the household of Hazrat Uthmanra] initiated the attack and they were compelled to respond. However, Hazrat Uthmanra had prohibited all the members of his household from retaliating. One day, upon finding an opportunity, he approached the wall and said: “‘O people! In your view I am a sinner, but what wrong have the others committed?’” i.e. that they thought he was a sinner, but what did the other people do wrong? “‘When you throw stones there is also a risk of others being injured.’ The rebels plainly denied and said that they had not thrown any stones. Hazrat Uthmanra said, ‘If you do not throw them, then who does?’ The rebels replied, ‘God the Exalted probably throws them,’ God forbid. “To this, Hazrat Uthmanra responded, ‘You utter lies! If God the Exalted had thrown stones at us, then not one of His stones would have missed; but the stones thrown by you miss their targets as well.’ After saying this, Hazrat Uthmanra left them to their work. “Although the companions were no longer given a chance to gather in the company of Hazrat Uthmanra, even still, they were not negligent of their duty. They

30 had divided their work into two parts as a wise measure at the time. Those men who were elderly and who, due to their morals, possessed a great influence on the public, spent their time admonishing the rebels; as for those people who possessed no such influence, or were young, would remain engaged in efforts to protect Hazrat Uthmanra. “From among the former group, Hazrat Alira and Hazrat Saadra bin Waqas, the conqueror of Persia, strove the hardest to suppress the conflict. Hazrat Alira had especially devoted his time to this cause, leaving aside all his other work. As such, a person by the name of Abdur Rahman, who was an eyewitness of these events, says: “‘In the days of disorder, I saw that Hazrat Alira had abandoned all his work. Day and night, he would remain concerned about how he could calm the temper of the enemies of Hazrat Uthmanra and bring an end to his sufferings. On one occasion, when there was a delay in conveying water to Hazrat Uthmanra, he became very displeased with Hazrat Talhahra to whom this task was assigned. Hazrat Alira did not rest until water had reached the home of Hazrat Uthmanra.’ “In ones and twos, whenever they could find an opportunity, the second group began to gather in the house of Hazrat Uthmanra or in neighbouring houses. This party had firmly resolved that they would give their lives but not let Hazrat Uthmanra come in harm’s way. Besides the children of Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Talhahra and Hazrat Zubairra, even a party of the companions themselves was a part of this group. These men guarded the house of Hazrat Uthmanra, day and night, and would not allow any enemy to reach Hazrat Uthmanra. “Although this small party could not stand up to such a large army, but since the rebels were after an excuse to kill Hazrat Uthmanra, they would not put up much of a resistance either. The events of that time shed such light upon the level of devotion Hazrat Uthmanra possessed for the welfare of Islam that one is left astonished. An army of 3,000 strong stood at his door and no strategy to save himself was devised. He even stopped those who endeavoured to save him, saying, ‘Leave! Do not put your lives in danger. These people only hold enmity for me; they have no objection against you.’ “His eye could foresee the time when Islam would be in grave danger at the hands of these rebels; not only apparent unity, but even the spiritual administration would reach the verge of falling apart. Hazrat Uthmanra knew that at that time each and every Companionra would be required for the protection and establishment of Islam. For this reason, he did not want the companions to lose their lives in a futile attempt to save his life and continued advising all of them not to withstand the rebels. He desired that insofar as possible, the community which had benefited from the company of the Messengersa of Allah, should be safeguarded, in order to dispel disorders which were to arise in the future. Despite his instructions, however, the companions, who would happen to find an opportunity to reach the house of Hazrat Uthmanra did not fail in fulfilling their obligation. They gave precedence to the danger at hand over such dangers that were yet to come. If the lives [of the companions]

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM were secure at the time, then it was only because the rebels felt no need to hurry and were on the lookout for an excuse” to attack Hazrat Uthmanra. “Ultimately, however, the hour arrived when it became impossible to wait any longer, because the heart-rendering message of Hazrat Uthmanra, which he had sent to the Muslims who were gathering for Hajj, had now been read out before the crowd of pilgrims. The valley of Mecca echoed this voice from one end to another. The Muslim pilgrims had decided that after the Hajj, they would not remain deprived of gaining the spiritual reward of performing jihad as well; they would uproot the rebels of Egypt and their associates. Rebel spies had informed their people of this intention and now signs of agitation began to arise in their camp. This was to such extent that murmurings within the rebel camp began to take place suggesting that now there was no other option but to kill this man; if they did not kill him, there would be no uncertainty in their own massacre at the hands of the Muslims. This anxiety was further intensified by the news that the letters of Hazrat Uthmanra had now reached Syria, Kufa and Basra as well, and the people there, who were already waiting for the orders of Hazrat Uthmanra, had been further enraged upon the receipt of these letters. Not to mention that taking it upon themselves, the companions had drawn the attention of all the Muslims towards their obligations in mosques and gatherings, and they had issued the verdict of performing jihad against the rebels. The companions said, ‘A person, who does not perform jihad on this day, is as if he has done nothing.’ “If, in Kufa, Uqbahra bin Amr, Abdullahra bin Abi Aufa, Hanzalah bin Rabi AlTamimira and other noble companions had roused the people into supporting the people of Medina, then Imranra bin Husain, Anasra bin Malik, Hishamra bin Amir and other companions had done the same in Basra. If, in Syria, Ubadahra bin Samit, Abu Umamahra and other companions had motivated the people to answer to the call of Hazrat Uthmanra, then Kharijah and others had done the same in Egypt. Armies from every province were joining forces and marching towards Medina. “Hence, this news intensified the anxiety of the rebels. Finally, they attacked the house of Hazrat Uthmanra and sought to forcefully enter. The companions confronted them and a fierce battle ensued. Although the companions were few in number, but their honour for their faith was covering for this disadvantage. Since the area where this battle took place, i.e., in front of the house of Hazrat Uthmanra was narrow, due to this reason as well, the rebels were unable to exploit their advantage in number. When Hazrat Uthmanra learned of this battle he forbade the companions from fighting. However, at that time, they viewed abandoning Hazrat Uthmanra to be against honesty and contrary to the teaching of obedience. Hence, they refused to return despite Hazrat Uthmanra appealing to them in the name of God. In the end, Hazrat Uthmanra took a shield in his hand, came out and led the companions inside his house. He then had the doors closed and enjoined the companions and their helpers: “‘God the Exalted has not given you the world so that you may incline towards it. In

fact, he has granted you the world so that by this means, you may gather provisions for the hereafter. This world will come to an end, and only the hereafter will remain. So, let not that which is to perish make you unmindful. Give precedence to that which shall remain over that which is to perish. Be mindful of your meeting with God the Exalted and do not allow your community to disperse. Do not forget the Divine favour that you were on the brink of a pit of destruction and God the Exalted saved you out of His bounty and made you as brothers.’ “Having said this, he dismissed them and said: “‘May God the Exalted be your Guardian and Helper. All of you leave the house now and call for those companions who have been barred from reaching me, especially Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Talhara and Hazrat Zubairra.’ These people stepped out and the other companions were also called. At the time, such a mood was developing and such a degree of sorrow was overshadowing the atmosphere that even the rebels could not remain unaffected.” At the time, such an atmosphere was created that when Hazrat Uthmanra told them to leave, the rebels did not attack them. Nonetheless, they left and the prominent companions were gathered. “Why would this not be the case? Everyone was observing that a candle lit by Muhammadsa, the Messenger of Allah, upon completing its life in the world was now about to disappear from the eyes of the people. Therefore, the rebels did not cause much hindrance and all the companions gathered. “When everyone had come together, Hazrat Uthmanra climbed the wall of his house and said, ‘Come close to me.’ When they had all come close to him, Hazrat Uthmanra said, ‘O people! Sit down.’ At this, the companions sat down and inspired by the awe of the gathering, so did the rebels. When they had all sat down Hazrat Uthmanra said: ‘People of Medina! I entrust you to God the Exalted and pray to Him that after me, He may arrange for a better successor than me. After today, until God the Exalted issues a decree in my regard, I shall not step out of my house and I shall not pass on authority to anyone by which he may rule over you in terms of religion or worldly rule. I leave it to God the Exalted to choose whoever He desires for His work.’ “After this he appealed in the name of Allah to the companions and the other people of Medina, not to put their own lives in grave danger by protecting him and to go to their homes. This instruction of Hazrat Uthmanra created a serious disagreement among the companions, a disagreement the likes of which cannot be found prior to this. The companions knew nothing but to obey every command, but today, in obeying this instruction, some perceived the stench of treachery, as opposed to obedience.” Some companions felt that if they obeyed this instruction it would be akin to treachery. “Some companions gave precedence to the aspect of obedience and unwillingly did away with their intention of fighting the rebels from then on. Perhaps they thought that their duty was only to be obedient and it was not their task to reflect upon the results that would come about by obeying this command. However, some companions

refused to obey this order because although they knew that it was an obligation to obey the Khalifa, but if the Khalifa commands people to abandon him, this effectively means that they should sever their ties with Khilafat; hence, this kind of obedience actually results in treachery. Furthermore, they also knew that Hazrat Uthmanra was sending them home in order to protect their lives”, i.e. to protect the lives of the companions. “How then, could they leave such a loving person in danger and go to their homes?” Out of love for them, Hazrat Uthmanra wished to save their lives, so how could they leave Hazrat Uthmanra? “All the prominent companions were among the latter group. As such, despite this command, the sons of Hazrat Alira, Hazrat Talhahra and Hazrat Zubairra, under the order of their respective fathers, constantly stood guard at the porch of Hazrat Uthmanra and did not put their swords into their sheaths. “The anxiety and ebullition of the rebels knew no bounds when the odd one or two people – who were returning after having completed Hajj – began to enter Medina; they were certain that now the time for their judgement had drawn very close. After performing Hajj, Mughirah bin Al-Akhnas was the first person who entered Medina in order to gain the spiritual reward of jihad. As soon as he arrived, the rebels received news that the army of Basra, which was coming to help the Muslims, had reached Sirar, which was only at a journey of one day from Medina. Overwhelmed by this news, the rebels decided that it was now vital that they fulfil their objective at all costs. Those companions and their friends who had refused to relinquish their protection of Hazrat Uthmanra despite his prohibition and those who had plainly said, ‘How will we face God the Exalted if we desert you, despite having the strength in our arms to fight?’ were now standing guard from inside the house due to their small number. Hence, it was not difficult for the rebels to reach the door. The rebels collected piles of wood outside the door and set light to them, so that the door would burn down and they could find an entrance into [the house]. Upon observing this, the companions deemed it inappropriate to remain inside and they desired to step out swords in hand. However, Hazrat Uthmanra stopped them from doing so and said: “‘What more can there be than setting the house on fire? Whatever was to happen, has now happened. Do not put your lives in danger and return to your homes. These people only harbour enmity against myself, but soon, they shall be remorseful for their doing. I absolve every person of his duty who is obliged to obey me and give up my right upon him.’ “However, the companions as well as others did not accept this and stepped out swords in hand. As they were coming out, Hazrat Abu Hurairahra arrived as well and joined them even though he was not the kind of person to engage in battle. Abu Hurairahra said, ‘What battle can be superior to the battle of this day?’ Then he looked towards the rebels and said: َّ َ ۤ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ ٰ َّ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ۤ ۡ َ ۡ َ ٰ ‫النا ِر‬ ‫یقو ِم ما ل ِی ادعوکم اِلی النجو ِۃ و تدعون ِنی اِلی‬ “‘O my people, how strange it is that I call you to salvation, and you call me to the Fire.’ [Ch.40: V.42]

AL HAKAM | Friday 2 April 2021 “This battle was an exceptional one. A handful of companions who were able to gather at the time fought desperately against this grand army. On that day, even Hazrat Imam Hasanra, who was extremely peace loving – in fact, was a prince of peace – attacked the enemy and would recite rajaz. The couplets recited by Hazrat Imam Hasan and Muhammad bin Talhah on that day are especially worthy of mention because they provide a deep understanding of their heartfelt feelings at the time. “Hazrat Imam Hasanra would recite the following couplet and attack the rebels: ُ ُ َ ََ َ ‫لا دِیْ ُنھ ْم دِیْ ِن ْی َولا انا ِ َم ْنھ ُم‬ ََ ٰ َ ْ َ ّٰ َ َ ‫ام‬ ٖ ‫حتی ا ِسیر اِلی طما ِر شم‬ “‘Their faith is not my faith, nor do I have any relation with them; I shall fight them until I reach the summit of mount Shamam.’ “Shamam is a mountain in Arabia which serves as a similitude for conquering heights and the achievement of one’s goal. Hazrat Imam Hasanra meant to say that he would continue to fight the rebels until he attained his objective and would not make peace with them, because the disagreement between both parties was not a trivial one, whereby [the believers] could develop a relationship with them, without having conquered them. These were the thoughts that were billowing in the heart of this prince of peace. Let us now take the rajaz of the son of Talhahra, who says: ُ َ ٰ َ ْ َ ُ ْ ََ ‫امی َعل ْی ِہ بِا ُح ٍد‬ ‫انا ابن من ح‬ ّ َ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ً َ ْ َ َّ َ َ ‫ورد احزابا علی رغ ِم مع ٍد‬ “‘I am the son of he who protected the Holy Prophetsa on the day of Uhud and defeated the Arabs despite their full efforts.’ “In other words, this day was also similar to the day of Uhud; just as his father had offered his hand to be pierced with arrows but did not let any harm come to the Holy Prophetsa, he would do the same. “Hazrat Abdullahra bin Zubair also participated in this battle and was badly injured. Marwan also sustained serious injuries and barely escaped the clutches of death. Mughirah bin Al-Akhnas was killed. When the person who had attacked Mughirah saw that not only had he been wounded but that he had been killed, he exclaimed: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ ‫اج ُع ْو َن‬ ِ ‫اِنا لِل ِہ واِنآ اِلی ِہ ر‬ “[meaning, ‘Verily, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return’] “The chief of the army reprimanded him saying, ‘You express regret on an occasion of happiness!’ He replied, ‘Last night, I saw in a dream that a person said, “Give news of hell to the killer of Mughirah.” So upon learning that I am his killer I was bound to be shocked by this.’ Besides the abovementioned people, others were also injured and killed; the party protecting Hazrat Uthmanra became even smaller. If, on the one hand, the rebels persisted in their obstinacy despite a heavenly warning and continued to fight against the beloved party of God the Exalted, then on the other hand, the devotees also did not slacken in setting an excellent example of faith. Despite the fact that most guards had been killed or injured, a small party continued to guard the door without fail.” (Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, The Outset of Dissension in Islam [2013 edition], pp. 114-138) Nonetheless, this account will continue

and insha-Allah, I will relate it in the coming sermon. I would like to make an appeal for prayers for the Ahmadis in Pakistan and as well as for Algeria, as the cases [against Ahmadis] are reopening there again. May Allah the Almighty create ease for everyone there and may Allah remove the difficulties caused by the enemies and create ease. After the Friday prayers, I will lead some funeral prayers in absentia and also mention some details about them. The first mention is of Respected Maulvi Muhammad Najeeb Khan Sahib, Naib Nazir Da‘wat ila-Allah for South India, [from] Qadian, who was the son of the late Master VM Muhammad from Kakkanad, Ernakulam district, Kerala. He passed away on 14 February [2021] due to a heart attack: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ ‫اج ُع ْو َن‬ ِ ‫اِنا لِل ِہ واِنآ اِلی ِہ ر‬ [Verily, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.] By the grace of Allah, he was a musi [part of the institution of Al-Wasiyyat]. Aside from his wife, he leaves behind three sons and all three of them are part of the blessed Waqf-e-Nau scheme. One son is studying in Jamia Ahmadiyya. The deceased was not an Ahmadi by birth, but when he was 17 years old, he was introduced to Ahmadiyyat by his father, after which he began to study the literature of the Jamaat including the book, The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam. One day, the deceased asked his father at what age one could make decisions for themselves, to which his father replied that at the age of 17 or 18, one could make a decision on their own. Subsequently, the deceased pledged allegiance through Maulana Muhammad Alvi Sahib and entered the fold of the Jamaat. With regard to his pledge of allegiance, Maulana Alvi Sahib narrates a dream of his; he states, “I saw in a dream that many stars were heading towards him, among which was a small star which is racing ahead.” Alvi Sahib would infer that the small star represented the late Maulvi Muhammad Najeeb Khan Sahib. Nonetheless, Najeeb Sahib was the first person to pledge allegiance in his family. His father knew about the Jamaat, but he was not an Ahmadi. Later on, after Najeeb Sahib’s efforts, Najeeb Sahib’s father, mother and brother pledged allegiance. After pledging allegiance, Najeeb Sahib saw a dream and owing to this dream, he joined Jamia Ahmadiyya and decided to serve the Jamaat as a life devotee. After graduating from Jamia, he was appointed to serve in India. He initially served in Chandigarh and after this, he served in various places as a missionary. I then appointed him as naib nazir da‘wat ila-Allah. Similarly, he worked as naib incharge of Noor-ul-Islam tabligh department and this [department] is working very effectively there. He was regular in his prayers and fasting and was regular in offering the Tahajjud [pre-dawn voluntary] prayers; he had a true connection with Khilafat which was one of love and reverence. He would complete every task with sincerity and determination, he would ensure it was completed with great proficiency and on time. It was part of his nature to complete everything to an excellent standard and to do so on time. He paid particular attention towards worship

and would encourage his family members to do the same. He would particularly pay attention to fulfilling the rights of God’s creation. Sheraz Sahib, in charge of Noor-ul-Islam Department, says: “He would regularly come to Bait-ud-Dua to offer prayers. He was very pious and had immense passion to serve the faith. He would remain occupied in fulfilling the tablighi and tarbiyati targets set by the Khalifa of the time. He also had the opportunity to translate the books of the Jamaat into Malayalam, as well as the revision and checking of books.” With regard to Najeeb Sahib’s services in this regard, Nazir Nashr-o-Ishaat Qadian writes that the deceased had the opportunity to translate Al-Wasiyyat, Tajalliyaat-eIlahiyah, Irfan-e-Ilahi, Qa‘idah YassarnalQuran and my [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa] sermons regarding Waqf-e-Nau into Malayalam. Furthermore, when Tafsir-eSaghir was re-printed in Malayalam, he had the opportunity to check it. One of his books, Nisab-e-Talim, was published in three parts in Malayalam. From 2013-2016, he had the opportunity to serve as the sadr of the review committee for Kerala. Abu Bakr Sahib, Amir of Ernakulam district in Kerala province says: “He had a passion to translate the books of the Promised Messiahas and spread the message to the people. He tried his utmost to assist those of weaker faith and ensuring they become steadfast and resolute.” May Allah the Almighty elevate the status of the deceased. The second funeral is of Nazeer Ahmad Khadim Sahib, who was the son of Chaudhry Ahmad Din Sahib Chattha and elder brother of Munir Bismil Sahib, Additional Nazir Ishaat. He passed away on 6 February [2021]. َ ْ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ ‫اج ُع ْو َن‬ ِ ‫اِنا لِل ِہ واِنآ اِلی ِہ ر‬ [Verily to Allah we belong and to him shall we return.] Ahmadiyyat entered their family through his paternal grandfather, Chaudhry Shah Din Sahib. Nazeer Khadim Sahib began his services to the faith from his time in college. Allah the Almighty had given him a special ability of writing and delivering speeches. From his youth until the very end of his life, he propagated the faith by advising and guiding through his written work and speeches. In Rabwah, he served as muavin sadr in Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and then also as mo‘tamid. He served as naib amir of Bahawalnagar district, as naib qaid umumi in Ansarullah and served as qazi in the dar al-qaza in Rabwah. May Allah the Almighty bestow His mercy and forgiveness on the deceased and enable his progeny and those he leaves behind to continue his virtuous deeds. The next funeral is of respected Al-Hajj Dr Nana Mustafa Oti Boateng Sahib, who was more commonly known in Ghana as Al-Hajj Chocho. He passed away on 17 January [2021] at the age of 70: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ ‫اج ُع ْو َن‬ ِ ‫اِنا لِل ِہ واِنآ اِلی ِہ ر‬ [Verily, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.] He was born in a Christian household and accepted Ahmadiyyat in 1979. He initially started working as a driver and also had the opportunity to serve the Jamaat for a long time as the driver of the late amir, Abdul Wahab Adam Sahib. He also had the

opportunity to work in the Jamaat’s press in the UK and Ghana. He also lived for some time in Japan, where he was appointed as the president of his local Jamaat. When I was serving in Ghana, I also saw that he was always very cheerful and would always occupy himself in the service of the Jamaat. Despite not holding any official office, he would always be striving to offer his services for any kind of work. Later, he started his own business and became so successful that he was regarded amongst the most well-known businessmen in Ghana. He also owned a factory which was known as Chocho Industry. He would always attribute the success of his business to the blessings of God Almighty, the prayers of the Khalifa of the time and his passion to offer sacrifices. He also made a lot of financial sacrifices. He had the opportunity to serve as the national secretary jaidad of Ghana for 11 years and also had the opportunity to serve as the regional president. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the deceased was a part of the institution of Al-Wasiyyat. He is survived by three wives and three daughters. He also had a son, who passed away a few years ago. Mubarak Adil Sahib, who is serving as a missionary in Koforidua, writes that to sacrifice his time and wealth for the service of faith and humanity and also his humility were amongst his most notable qualities. He would pay particular attention towards the Tahajjud prayer and the five obligatory prayers. He would regularly and punctually pay his chanda. He financed the building of an entire mosque on his own and contributed more than 50% of the total cost of the construction of so many other mosques as well. Similarly, he contributed towards the construction of various mission houses and their refurbishment. Whenever there was a legal dispute regarding the land owned by the Jamaat, he would arrange for a lawyer himself and attend all the legal proceedings and he would pay for all the legal fees himself and not take anything from the Jama’at. He had a particular passion and desire in his heart for spreading the message of Ahmadiyyat. His parents also accepted Ahmadiyyat through his preaching efforts. For over a decade, he conducted a 30-minute tabligh programme on a radio station from his own expenditure, which reaches out to almost half the population of Ghana and this continues even till today. He also owned a television channel and would broadcast a tabligh programme once a week as well as a video programme at his own expenditure. Through this programme, hundreds of thousands of people received the message of Ahmadiyyat and many people accepted Ahmadiyyat as a result. He also had a car which was dedicated for the sole purpose of Tabligh activities. He also purchased motorcycles and cars for certain missionaries and muallimeen in order to assist them in their tabligh and tarbiyat duties and so that they could carry out their work more efficiently. He would also discreetly provide them with financial help as well. He would always advise the members of the Jamaat that they ought to serve and protect the Jamaat just like one loves and cherishes a personal and valuable property of theirs. He would also encourage them to offer every kind of sacrifice for the purpose of tabligh and in turn, Allah the Almighty would bestow countless blessings and favours upon them – and he himself

Friday 2 April 2021 | AL HAKAM

was a practical example of this. Whatever advice he would give to others, he would always practically demonstrate it through his own example as well. The [Jamaat’s] hospital in Koforidua Region is the biggest hospital in the entire region; however, the roads leading into it had deteriorated and become broken causing the patients great difficulty. The deceased had the roads rebuilt through his own expense and at the occasion of its inauguration, which was attended by the regional minister, politicians, doctors, media, etc. almost all of whom were either non-Ahmadis or Christians, he expressed, “I am an Ahmadi Muslim and believe in Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadianias as the second coming of the Messiah. It is the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa who have taught me that in order to fulfil the rights of God, one has to also serve mankind. It is for this reason that as an Ahmadi Muslim, I consider it my duty to show compassion to mankind and to strive to alleviate its difficulties. This was the reason why I rebuilt these roads which lead to the hospital.” At the age of 48, he once again read the Holy Quran with the muallim, Jamal-ulDin Sahib and also learnt the YassarnalQuran again, so that he could correct his pronunciation. Thereafter, he regularly recited the Holy Quran with its translation and would carefully ponder over its meanings. He had adopted many children and had provided them with rooms for accommodation in his own house and he would also tend to their secular and religious education. In short, he possessed countless virtues. May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy and elevate his status. May He also enable his loved ones to continue his virtuous deeds. The next funeral is of respected Ghulam Nabi Sahib, son of Fazl Din Sahib of Rabwah. He was the father of Zia-ulRahman Tayyab Sahib, who is serving as a missionary in Gabon. He passed away on 2 February [2021]: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّ ٰ َّ ‫اج ُع ْو َن‬ ِ ‫اِنا لِل ِہ واِنآ اِلی ِه ر‬ [Verily, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.] He was a born Ahmadi. He worked in a bank and after his retirement, he moved to Daska. There, he had the opportunity to serve as the finance secretary, vice president, general secretary, zaim Ansarullah and imam-ul-Salat. He was very regular in his Tahajjud prayers and would always try to offer his prayers at the mosque. He was very regular in reciting the Holy Quran and would recite it aloud. He was a very kind, compassionate, benevolent person, who always showed patience and contentment. As I mentioned that he was the father of Zia-ul-Rahman Tayyab Sahib, who is currently serving as a missionary in Gabon and owing to the current circumstances, was unable to attend the funeral and burial of his father. May Allah the Almighty also grant him patience and steadfastness and elevate the status of the deceased.

Surah al-Haaqah, 23 years and the as Promised Messiah

“”

From the time of Prophet Adamas to the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and from his era to this age, not one forger was given respite after falsely claiming that he had been commissioned by God Almighty and after publishing his own words as divine revelations. www.alhakam.org/surah-al-haaqah-23-years-and-the-promised-messiah/

(Original Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International, 19 March 2021, pp. 11-16. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad and Aqeel Ahmad Kang | Sub-Editorial: Ataul Fatir Tahir | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2021