Al Hakam - 10 December 2021

From the Markaz Huzoor guides national amila of Jamaat Norway

English Protestant missionary and doctor, Theodore Leighton Pennell visits Qadian

Introduction to chapters of the Holy Quran

Single-sex schools in UK triumph in academic performance

Part I Page 4

A

Page 13

Page 9

Page 17

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021 | Issue CXCV Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7396

Explore new ways of tabligh National amila of Majlis Ansarullah USA meets Hazrat Khalifatul Masih On 4 December 2021, the national amila of Majlis Ansarullah USA met Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa through a virtual mulaqat.

The meeting started with a silent prayer led by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.

Speaking with Qaid Umumi, Mehfuz Sheikh Sahib, Huzooraa asked how many Ansar majalis there were in the United States. He reported there were 61 majalis, to which Huzooraa said: “61 only? […] You [should] have at least 10 times more majalis than the states in the USA. Why not 500 majalis? This is your duty, the duty of your secretary tabligh to do tabligh and create majalis there.”

Zahid Mian Sahib, Qaid Maal (Finance) was next to report. Huzooraa asked about various aspects of the Ansar budget, including how it was prepared.

During the conversation, Huzooraa said amila members should set examples for all ansar by paying the chanda according to the prescribed rate. Huzooraa said: “At every level, if amila members start paying their chanda according to the rate and show their correct income, then I think your budget can increase at least by 30-40%.”

Sohail Kausar, Naib Sadr Saf-e-

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

Seeking Allah’s forgiveness by daytime and at night ّ ٰ َّ ّٰ َ ُ َ َ ُ َ َ َ ‫ﻗال أب ُ ْو ھ َريْ َرة � ِ� ْعﺖ َر ُس ْول الل ِہ َصلی الل ُہ‬ َ ّ ٰ ْ َ ّ ّ ٰ ُ ُ َّ ‫َعل ْی ِه َو َسل َم يَق ْول َوالل ِہ ِإ� ِ ْ� ل� ْس َتﻐ�ِ ُ� الل َہ‬ َ َْ ْ َ ُ َُ َ ً َ​َ ْ ‫وأت ْوب ِإل ْی ِه �ِ� ال َی ْو ِم أﻛ� َر ِم ْن َس ْب ِع� َ� � ّ�ة‬ Hazrat Abu Hurairahra relates, “I heard the Holy Prophetsa saying, ‘By Allah!

I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than 70 times a day.’”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Da‘waat, Hadith 6307)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Join the beloved of God

Awal reported about his responsibilities and said he oversaw a new scheme in Ansarullah USA which loaned up to $10,000, interest-free, to ansar starting small businesses.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa asked Abdul

Hadi Ahmad Sahib, Naib Sadr Saf-e-Daum about his department’s achievements over the year. Abdul Hadi Sahib said they started activities to encourage ansar to cycle, run and exercise. Huzooraa asked Continued on next page >>

These are truly fragile times.

Everyone ought to fear the wrath of Allah Almighty, for He has no care except for those who are His pious servants. Foster brotherhood and love amongst yourselves; forsake barbarity and mutual dissension. Withdraw completely from all forms of jest and mockery, for mockery moves the heart far away from the truth. Treat one another with respect. Each and every one of you ought to give preference to the comfort of your brother over themselves.

Reconcile sincerely with Allah the Exalted and become subservient to Him once again. The wrath of Allah Almighty is descending upon the earth and only those will be saved who fully repent of all their sins and return to God. Continued on page 2

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

2 << Continued from previous page

how many ansar cycled, to which Abdul Hadi Sahib said they did not have the exact numbers; however, they knew 35% of ansar in the USA reported they exercised regularly. Huzooraa asked if national amila members exercised – Abdul Hadi Sahib said the amila members were very active and keen on exercising.

Huzooraa said the amila members should cycle to work in order to reduce air pollution.

Muhammad Daud Munir, Naib Sadr said he managed the Ansar Tahir Scholarship in which Ansar who wanted to get training for a job were given a scholarship of $4,000 per year, for a maximum of two years. Thus far, Ansarullah USA had given seven scholarships to Ansar this year and most of them were to refugees.

Huzooraa said ansar looking for jobs and who needed training could get training with other Ahmadis who owned businesses, like plumbing businesses, and in this way money from the budget would not be spent.

Qaid Tarbiyat (Moral Training), Muzaffar Ahmad Siddiqui was next to report. Huzooraa asked what his department’s plan was. Muzaffar Sahib said they first aimed to get 100% of ansar to offer their five daily prayers in congregation. The reports of this year (during the pandemic and while people were offering prayers at home) showed that 64% of ansar were doing so, said Muzaffar Sahib.

Regarding those ansar who did not offer their prayers, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “Have you asked those who are not offering prayers, ‘What is the method of seeking excuse from Allah the Almighty for not offering prayer?’ At this age – the Ansar age – they should remember Allah more than anything else.”

Huzooraa asked how many ansar recited the Holy Quran every day. As he did not know the exact figure and that the

Continued from page 1

Remember that if you bring yourself to obey the commandments of Allah Almighty and endeavour to support His chosen religion, God will remove all the obstacles in your way and you will be successful. Do you not observe how a farmer will uproot weeds from the field so that healthy plants can flourish; and how he adorns his field with beautiful and fruitful trees; and safeguards and protects them from everything that could cause them harm? However, owners do not care if cattle eat away at such trees and plants which do not bear fruit, and which begin to rot and dry, or if a lumberjack cuts them down and throws the wood of such trees into a furnace. In the same manner, you too ought to remember that if you are

qaid for talim-ul-Quran would have the accurate figure, Huzooraa said: “The tarbiyat department should also know that this is the number of the people who are doing tilawat every day. Qaid talim-ul-Quran should know how many of them can read the Quran (that can read nazirah) and who can correctly read the Holy Quran with full tarteel and tajwid.”

Huzooraa stressed that amila members, at all levels, should offer the five daily prayers in congregation, recite the Holy Quran every day and listen to his Friday Sermons.

Bilal Khalid Sahib, Qaid Talim (Education) reported that the book, Ten Conditions of Bai‘at was assigned for all ansar to read during the year and at the end, an exam was taken. Bilal Sahib said 33% of ansar – about 1,200 of the total tajnid of Ansarullah USA – participated in the exam. To this, Huzooraa said “mashaAllah” and noted that the percentage and the number reported by Bilal Sahib coincided.

Qamar Zafar Sahib, Qaid Isaar (Sacrifice) was next to report. Qamar Sahib reported that the Tahir Scholarships and the loan projects were part of the isaar department’s budget as well.

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib, Qaid Tabligh (Preaching) presented his tabligh plan. On the subject of Covid-19 and hurdles in preaching, Huzooraa said that tabligh could be conducted online.

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib said they had encouraged and trained ansar to do tabligh online; however, many ansar objected and said preaching online, especially through social media, was not effective as people would just hurl abuse at the Promised Messiahas. For this reason, they were against doing tabligh online. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa responded by saying: “But there are people who like it. Even if one person is guided on the right path, then you have achieved your purpose. So you should not stop doing tabligh because of this. There are quite a number of people who have been cursing us all the time, from morning to evening […] so should

deemed among the truthful in the sight of Allah Almighty, no one who opposes you can cause you grief. If, however, you do not set aright your state of affairs and if you do not make a firm covenant of obedience with Allah the Exalted, then God has no care for such people. Thousands of sheep and goats are slaughtered daily, and no one is moved by mercy to prevent this; yet if even a single human being is killed, a long string of questions will follow. Therefore, if you let yourselves become useless and carefree in the likeness of animals, you shall meet the same fate.

You ought to join with those who are loved by God so that no disease or calamity can muster the courage to lay its hands upon you. For nothing can transpire on earth except with the permission of Allah Almighty. Rid yourselves of all mutual

we stop doing work because of that? This is not an excuse.”

Huzooraa said other avenues of tabligh could be explored too. Huzooraa said: “We don’t know how long this Covid pandemic will remain, right? So we cannot stop our work because of this. We have to explore new ways and means to expand our message, to spread our message.”

Tahir Sufi Sahib, Qaid Tarbiyat Nau Mubai‘een (Moral Training for New Converts) was next to report. Huzooraa asked if he was also a new convert, to which he said he was born an Ahmadi.

Tahir Sahib reported there were 55 new ansar converts in the last three years. The department was trying to encourage the new converts to learn Salat in Arabic and its translation, Surah al-Fatihah in Arabic and its translation and Durood Sharif in Arabic and the English translation.

Huzooraa asked what ethnic and religious backgrounds the converts were from.

Tahir Sahib said they included AfricanAmericans, Pakistanis, Arabs and Caucasians.

Huzooraa said Tahir Sahib should have a naib (deputy) from amongst the African-Americans and if he was to have more than one naib, they should be from amongst different ethnic groups.

Huzooraa said there should be different groups of people in his team who trained the new converts “because if the people are from among them, then they know their problems better than you and they can tackle their problems, solve their problems. And they can make the plan of how to train them.”

Muda Shiraz Montara, Qaid Waqf-eJadid reported next. Huzooraa asked where he was from and if he was a born Ahmadi.

Muda Sahib said he was from Sri Lanka and converted to Ahmadiyyat in 1994.

During the conversation, regarding the contributions to Waqf-e-Jadid by Majlis Ansarullah, Huzooraa said: “Ansarullah’s participation should be at least more than one-third of the total amount collected by the Jamaat.”

Munir Ahmad Malik, Qaid Talim-ul-

Quran and Waqf-e-Arzi (Education of Quran and Temporary Waqf) reported next. Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said emphasis should be given on waqf-e-arzi too. Online waqf-e-arzi was possible in the current circumstances and jamaats around the world were holding them, Huzooraa said.

Munir Sahib said almost 55% of the ansar recited the Holy Quran every day and most could read the Holy Quran correctly. Huzooraa asked if there were classes held for those who could not recite the Quran correctly. Munir Sahib said a number of classes were held for them.

Rizwanullah Din Sahib, Muavin Sadr, who also implemented shura recommendations, reported next.

Huzooraa asked how they addressed the flaws and shortcomings with the implementation of shura recommendations. Rizwanullah Sahib said they surveyed the participants who partook in the specific implementation of the shura recommendations and then tried to improve those programmes for the following year. Huzooraa asked what the success rate of the implementation of the recommendations from shura was.

Rizwanullah Sahib said that one example was of a programme for the importance of observing Salat, held in all Ansarullah regional ijtemas. The ansar participants were surveyed afterwards and out of 380 members who filled out the survey, over 85% said the Salat programme increased their intention to better perform and observe Salat.

Iftikhar Ahmad Sahib, Qaid Isha‘at (Publications) reported to Huzooraa and said Majlis Ansarullah USA had an email newsletter that went out twice a month, an annual year-in-review book – AnNahl – was printed and given out and the department maintained the content for the Ansar website.

Syed Tanwir Ahmad Sahib, Qaid Zehanat-o-Sehat-e-Jismani (Physical and Mental Wellbeing), reported next.

Seeing him, Huzooraa smiled and said he had gained some weight and asked if

conflict, aggression and enmity. Now is the time for you to set aside trivial matters and engage yourselves in important and magnificent work. The people will oppose you and the members of the Anjuman will be displeased with you, but you ought to advise them gently and not act vehemently towards them. This is the advice that I bequeath to you. Always remember my counsel in the form of a testament that you must never act angrily or harshly, but rather you must advise everyone gently, softly and courteously. Clearly explain to the members of the Anjuman that such a memorial is actually harmful to the religion of Islam. The reason we have opposed their memorial is because it is injurious to the religion.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 267-268) Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

3

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

he exercised. Tanwir Sahib said he did exercise regularly. With a smile, Huzooraa remarked, “Really? And despite that, you are gaining weight.”

Syed Tanwir Sahib reported that most of the national amila members exercised – some were avid cyclists and others were runners. Overall, 35% of ansar in USA said they exercised regularly.

Seeing the next national amila member say salaam to him, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, with a smile, said: “Wa alaikumus-salaam, Abu Bakr Bin Saeed of Tamale. Masha-Allah, you are a nasir now. After having seen you as a nasir, then I can see myself as a very old person.”

Abu Bakr Sahib said he served as nazim-e-ala Midwest Region and had five majalis who were all active, with the exception of a few members.

Rizwan Ahmad Sahib, the auditor reported next. Huzooraa asked if sadr Ansarullah and secretary maal were cooperative. Rizwan Sahib responded by saying, “Yes, they are very cooperative.”

Nasir Bukhari Sahib, Nazim-e-Ala of Great Lakes region reported that he had five majalis over three states. The total number ansar of the region was 204.

Huzooraa asked if he contacted the ansar over the telephone and online, to which Nasir Sahib replied in the affirmative and said most communication was over electronic media; however, visits were made too. With a smile, Huzooraa asked if the ansar knew their nazim-e-ala “by face”. Nasir Sahib said that they did.

Nasir Sahib sought permission to ask a question. He said that some of the officebearers had the concept in their minds that there would always be 30% of ansar who would be very engaged with the Jamaat, but the rest would be “somewhat engaged”. Nasir Sahib asked Huzooraa how to change this perception. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa advised: “It is a continuous effort – you don’t have force. It all depends on their level of faith. So it is the job of secretary

tarbiyat to increase the level of faith; do proper tarbiyat. And then the respective nazimeen-e-tarbiyat at every level should do this. So, it’s a consolidated effort of each and every nazim tarbiyat and qaid tarbiyat and other related departments.

“This is what we can do. Other than that we don’t have force and we cannot force them. This is a matter of their faith. If your faith is firm, and you believe that the Jamaat is the promised Jamaat which was to be formed by the Promised Messiah, peace be on him, then once they realise this fact, they will be active. So make them realise this fact.”

Shahid Malik Sahib, Nazim-e-Ala Virginia reported. Huzooraa asked if this was the biggest region of Ansarullah, to which Shahid Sahib said it was and included 529 members spread over five majalis.

Naveed Ahmad Malik, Nazim-e-Ala for the headquarters region (Maryland) reported next. Huzooraa asked if the

weather was bad in the USA at the time as the connection was failing between the USA and the UK during the meeting.

Huzooraa said that even in the remotest part of the world in Africa, the connection was better. Huzooraa instructed Naveed Malik Sahib to find out what the issue was after the meeting as he was the nazim-eala of Silver Spring. Naveed Sahib said he would do so and apologised for the disruption in the connection.

Khurram Shah Sahib, Nazim-e-Ala for Central West Region, Northern California reported. Huzooraa said the area he covered had a Spanish presence, to which Khurram Sahib concurred. Huzooraa asked how many majalis there were in his region and whether they were active.

Khurram Sahib reported they had four majalis, 151 members and around 50% were active. Huzooraa asked if they had any missionaries present there. Khurram Sahib said there were two missionaries in his region, Sabahat Ali Sahib (who was

recently posted to Silicon Valley) and Khalid Khan Sahib.

Zafar Abdul Basit Sahib, Nazim-e-Ala Southwest Region reported they had four majalis with a total of 343 members.

At this point, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa had spoken to all the national amila members present.

Huzooraa turned to Sadr Ansarullah and said: “[…] now, time is over. You have taken more than one hour. In this time only, I could get myself introduced to these people and know what they are doing and what is your plan, and that I have had.

“Allah the Almighty bless you. For the next year, work harder than before.”

Sadr Sahib thanked Huzooraa for his time and after Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa conveyed his salaam, the meeting came to a close.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

4

From the Markaz

Regularly observe the five daily prayers so your children may follow suit: Huzoor guides national amila of Jamaat Norway

The national amila of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Norway met with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in a virtual mulaqat, on 5 December 2021.

After conveying his salaam, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked, “Is this the national amila?”, to which the National Amir, Zahoor Ahmad Sahib responded in the affirmative. Huzooraa then led everyone in dua (silent prayer). During the mulaqat, all amila members had the opportunity to introduce themselves and give a brief report and update of their duties.

The first to speak was Missionaryin-Charge, Shahid Kahloon Sahib who stated he was also serving as the secretary of rishta nata (marriages) and naib amir.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa enquired how many matches matured under the rishta nata department this year; to which Shahid Kahloon Sahib replied that only two matches matured.

Shan Ahmad Syed Sahib, General Secretary reported that there were 14 jamaats in Norway. He stated that the total tajnid (census) of Norway Jamaat was 1,737.

Huzooraa asked him if he received reports on time from the various jamaats. Shan Ahmad Syed Sahib replied that around 50% of the reports were sent regularly. Huzooraa,

hearing this, mentioned that as there weren’t that many jamaats in Norway, and as the country was rather small, it should be easy to obtain reports.

Shan Ahmad Syed Sahib said that the reason why reports were not sent regularly was because of issues arising from a new digital platform that had been introduced.

Huzooraa explained that the new system should have only been activated once it was completed, and until then, the old system should have been used.

Faisal Suhel Sahib, Secretary Tabligh (Peaching) was next to present his report.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa enquired what target had been set for tabligh. Secretary tabligh replied that the bai‘at target set for the year was 20. Faisal Sahib reported that in the last year, one person did bai‘at and 21 in the past three years. He added that during the pandemic, online programmes were held; however, he stated that he had devised a three-month plan in which tabligh would be done individually, various tabligh stands would be set up and other jalsas would be held.

Huzooraa enquired from secretary tabligh if any literature was also distributed, to which he replied in the affirmative and added that literature had been distributed

via mail all throughout Norway with only one province remaining.

Whilst speaking with Abdul Monim Nasir Sahib, Secretary Tarbiyat (Moral Training), Huzooraa asked how many people usually came to the mosque to offer Salat in congregation. Abdul Monim Nasir Sahib replied that the attendance in the mosque was not high due to the uncertainties regarding the pandemic. He stated that around 20-25 people attended the mosque for Salat. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa then asked if people at least offered Salat in congregation at home; to which the tarbiyat secretary said that the majority of people did offer Salat in congregation in their homes.

Abdul Monim Nasir Sahib further said that around 62% of Jamaat members offered the five daily prayers with regularity. As it was not 100%, Huzooraa asked, “Are five prayers obligatory upon a believer or two or three prayers?” Abdul Monim Nasir Sahib replied that five prayers were obligatory and said that efforts were being made in this regard.

Huzooraa said to tell people, “If you are Ahmadi Muslims, then properly fulfil its rights. Simply swearing allegiance and entering the fold of the Jamaat is not an achievement; the basics – the basic tenets of

Islam – should at least be followed.”

Owais Mahmood Sahib, Secretary Talim (Education) reported that there were 180 students out of which 95 were currently studying at universities, and 85 were doing A-levels. He further added that he did not have the figures for the students below A-levels.

Huzooraa asked if students were counselled and guided as to which profession they should pursue and the career paths and professions they were interested in.

Owais Mahmood Sahib replied that due to the pandemic, it was not possible; however, various methods were used to help guide them. He further reported that there was a total of 31 students in medicine.

Shahid Ahmad Dar Sahib, Secretary Isha‘at (Publications) reported that various kinds of Jamaat literature were provided through the isha‘at department such as the literature which was distributed throughout Norway as mentioned by the tabligh secretary. He added various books were also sent to libraries and some books were also being translated. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa enquired if any magazine was being printed, to which Shahid Ahmad Dar Continued on next page >>

5

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021 << Continued from previous page

Sahib replied in the affirmative and said that Lajna, Khuddam and Ansar had their own magazines which were printed.

Speaking with Mohammad Mohsin Basit Sahib, Secretary Sami-o-Basri (Audio and Video), Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa stated that the department should produce documentaries and programmes showcasing the beautiful country of Norway. “Send some programmes or a documentary to MTA. Norway is a beautiful place [covering] a vast area”. Mohammad Mohsin Basit Sahib replied in the affirmative and said that he would.

Nabeel Qamar Sahib, Naib Secretary Umur-e-Kharijah (External Affairs), was next to present his report. Huzooraa enquired how many members of parliament he was in personal contact with. Responding, he said that there were around 5-6 members of parliament umur-e-kharijah was in close contact with.

Jamil Ahmad Qamar Sahib, Secretary Umur-e-Ama (General Affairs), whilst presenting his report, said that one of his tasks was to help guide members in finding employment.

“This is the primary task,” Huzooraa said.

“Solving disputes is the secondary duty.

The main task is to take care of members of the Jamaat, guide them properly, help them with employment etc., find out what the household situation is of those who are unable to make ends meet, and then, if there is anyone in financial difficulties, finding a solution for them and a job”.

Huzooraa asked Secretary Ziafat, Mubarak Anwar Sahib what was cooked and prepared for the amila members. Mubarak Sahib replied that rice, lamb korma, lamb roast and sarson ka saag were being served, but they had not been prepared in-house.

Next, Tariq M Qureshi Sahib, Secretary Maal (Finance) and Rafi A Minhas Sahib, Additional Secretary Maal had the opportunity to present their report and a brief outline of their duties. Speaking with them, Huzooraa discussed various budgetary matters. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa asked Rafi Sahib if all amila members paid the right amount of chanda; to which the secretary replied in the affirmative.

Razi A Minhas Sahib, Secretary Wasaya (Wills), reported that there was a total of 395 musis in Norway. Huzooraa asked if the 50% target was met, to which Razi A Minhas Sahib answered in the affirmative and said that he had recently become secretary and that the target was achieved before he became secretary. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if Khawaja Abdul Momin Sahib was the secretary before him, to which he replied he was.

Huzooraa explained that as the 50% target was accomplished, it should continue to increase.

Basharat Ahmad Sabir Sahib, Secretary Talim-ul-Quran & Waqf-e-Arzi reported that Quran classes were held twice a week in which the missionary taught the Holy Quran’s translation and thereafter, Basharat Ahmad Sabir Sahib taught the tajwid.

Huzooraa encouraged all amila members to take part in waqf-e-arzi also.

Speaking with Nisar Ahmad Sahib, Secretary Tahrik-e-Jadid, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa enquired how many took

part in Tahrik-e-Jadid, to which he replied that 1,046 people took part in this blessed scheme. Huzooraa further emphasised that people should be made aware of the importance of Tahrik-e-Jadid.

Naeem Ahmad Basharat Sahib, Secretary Waqf-e-Jadid reported that the amount promised was 502,000 NOK and added that usually, “the income” was greater than the amount promised. Hearing this, Huzooraa said, “It is a collection, not an income.” Huzooraa further said that this was not a business. People sacrificed their wealth to give chanda.

Speaking with Saifur Rahman Sahib, Additional Secretary Waqf-e-Jadid and Tarbiyat Nau Mubai‘een, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if he was a new convert, to which he said that he was not. Huzooraa then asked how he was able to understand the various problems new converts encountered. Responding, Saifur Rahman Sahib said that he spoke with them. He reported that there were 24 new converts recorded in the last three years in Norway.

Huzooraa emphasised the importance of teaching the new converts how to pray and recite Surah al-Fatihah.

Ather M Qureshi Sahib, Secretary Jaidad (Properties) reported that the Jamaat had three buildings and a small plot of land in Northern Norway.

Shahid Umar Sahib, Secretary Waqfe-Nau, whilst presenting his report, said that there were 237 waqifeen-e-nau out of which 30 had completed studies and started working. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa enquired how many of them were serving the Jamaat, to which he replied that around three to four were serving the Jamaat. Huzooraa asked if any waqifeen had studied in Jamia Ahmadiyya. Shahid Sahib responded in the affirmative and said that 10 waqifeen had graduated Jamia.

Next, Muqarrab A Mekan Sahib, the internal auditor presented his report.

Hearing his name, Huzooraa quoted the following verse from an Urdu poem of the Promised Messiahas:

�‫و� اس � �ب � ی� � ا� آپ �� � ی‬

“Only they are close [muqarrab] to Him who lose their own selves.”

Huzooraa asked him if he reviewed financial documents, to which he replied in the affirmative.

Abdul Hai Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya Norway, whilst presenting his report, said that there was a total of 423 khuddam in Norway. He said that the majority of khuddam were working and studying.

Sadr Majlis Ansarullah Norway, Rana Naeem Ahmad Khan Sahib reported that there were 305 ansar in Norway. He added that the majority of ansar had retired from work.

After this, Zahoor Ahmad Sahib, National Amir requested that some amila members had a few questions they wished to ask Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. Huzooraa graciously accepted this request.

Rafi A Minhas Sahib, Additional Secretary Maal stated that it had been noted that, despite drawing people’s attention towards chanda, some people would apologise and say that they were unable to give chanda. He said that when they were then told to write to Huzooraa to request leave or get a concession regarding chanda,

many people hesitated. He asked Huzooraa what could be done.

Answering, Huzooraa said that they should be encouraged to give chanda with love. Huzooraa further said that even if they were having to pay at a reduced rate, they should continue to give nonetheless.

Huzooraa added, “It is our job to explain, there is nothing else we can do.”

Rafi A Minhas Sahib stated that some people hesitated when it came to get a concession. Hearing this, Huzooraa stated that they may write a letter directly to him.

Basharat Ahmad Sabir Sahib, Secretary Talim-ul-Quran and Waqf-e-Arzi asked how to develop the love of the Holy Quran within the hearts of members of the Jamaat.

Huzooraa replied that the tarbiyat secretary had stated earlier that around 62% offered the five daily prayers with regularity.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated that Salat was a basic tenet of Islam, and if that wasn’t being offered with regularity, it meant that their children – observing and learning from their elders – would also not offer Salat with regularity.

Huzooraa said that attention was not being directed to this important commandment of Salat, and the recitation of the Holy Quran came later. Huzooraa instructed to keep telling people about this and draw their attention towards this. When they read the Holy Quran, only then would they learn about the commandments in it. If one was not reading the Holy Quran which is a means of guidance, then how would one understand his or her purpose, obligation and duty. So, Huzoor emphasised that people’s attention should be brought to this. “This isّ the commandment of the َ Holy Quran: ‫ذ�ِ ۡر‬, ‘admonish’, and continue to admonish. ‘Thou art not [appointed] a warden over them’. God commanded to admonish,” Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said.

Shahid Umar Sahib, Secretary Waqf-eNau stated that some children – atfal – up to the age of 15 were well behaved; however, as atfal entered Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and got older, their contact with the Jamaat weakened and they slowly moved away. He asked Huzooraa what could be done in this

regard.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa answered that programmes should be devised that attracted them so that their connection with the Jamaat and the mosque remained.

“Do not cling to outdated methods; rather, devise such a plan that will attract them”, Huzooraa said.

Huzooraa added that they should allocate a young naib (assistant) with them and devise a plan of how to keep young children who were drifting away from the Jamaat connected to it.

Further, Shahid Umar Sahib said it was observed that young Norwegians started working from the age of 14 or 15. Likewise, Ahmadi children were also getting jobs which were on Saturdays and Sundays. He said that for this reason, they were unable to attend Jamaat events on the weekends.

Huzooraa answered that if young children were told about their responsibilities, then they wouldn’t do this. Huzooraa said that Norwegian parents told their children that if they wished to go out and indulge themselves, drink and have girlfriends etc., then they would have to do that with their own money. Therefore, Norwegian children started getting jobs, Huzooraa explained.

If young Ahmadis wished to do work, they should pursue a decent job and their primary intention for doing so should be the welfare of mankind.

Huzooraa emphasised that those children who had had proper tarbiyat understood their responsibilities and priorities.

In the end, Sadr Ansarullah, Rana Naeem Ahmad Khan Sahib requested Huzooraa if the Ansarullah amila and zaeems could come to the UK to meet with him. Huzooraa smiled and said, “Now, a new [Covid] variant has started again. How can they come? If you are able to have a [virtual] mulaqat sitting there, even that would be a big achievement.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then conveyed his salaam to everyone and the mulaqat successfully ended.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

6

This Week in History 10 - 16 December 10 December 1924: Hazrat Syeda Amatul Hayy Begumra, daughter of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira and wife of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, passed away.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p. 489)

province.

In those days, all the opponents of Ahmadiyyat were carrying out conspiracies, lies and spreading hatred, which eventually led to the infamous and notorious anti-Ahmadiyya riots of 1953 in which the lives of Ahmadis were taken and their properties destroyed.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 14, p. 448)

10 December 1953: Hazrat Hakim Muhammad Abdul Samadra of Delhi passed away. He was born in 1879 in the house of Hakim Muhammad Abdul Ghani Sahib. Hazrat Hakim Muhammad Abdul Samadra joined Islam Ahmadiyyat in 1905. When the Promised Messiahas visited Delhi in 1905, upon seeing the Promised Messiah’sas blessed countenance, he said that his was the face of a truthful person and did bai‘at shortly after. After performing bai‘at, a storm of opposition arose. His parents stopped talking to him. If food was available, he would eat it, otherwise he would fast.

Hazrat Hakim Muhammad Abdul Samadra was a very experienced doctor.

He used to advise young people in particular that without good morals, one could not experience good health.

In 1911, he moved from Delhi to Meerut where he opened a clinic. He then relocated his family to Qadian and then migrated to Qadian in 1934. After the partition of the country in 1947, he started living in Karachi.

He was a musi and was buried in Bahishti Maqbarah, Rabwah.

(Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 16, p. 184)

10 December 1965: Hazrat Munshi Ahmad Alira, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away. He was born in 1860. He would say that in 1902, when he was employed at a particular place, the supervising officer of his department who came for inspection was Hazrat Babu Ata Muhammadra of Jhelum. In his pocket was the Al Hakam newspaper. The paper contained the commentary of the Promised Messiahas of Surah al-Fatihah.

After reading it, Hazrat Munshi Ahmad Alira was very much impressed. Later, he studied other books of the Promised Messiahas. When he was convinced that

14 December 1912: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I, may Allah be pleased with him, drew the attention of Ahmadi scholars to prepare a new book for the interpretation of dreams in light of new topics that emerged as a result of technological advancements. (Al Hakam, 14 December 1912, p. 6) 14 December 1936: In order to connect Qadian with other large cities, telephone lines were set up.

On this date, the installation work was completed. the Promised Messiahas was true in his claim, he made his way to Qadian and did bai‘at.

Hazrat Munshi Ahmad Alira passed away on 10 December 1965 and was buried in Bahishti Maqbarah, Rabwah.

11 December 1936: Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra always urged the Jamaat to pray. On this day, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra instructed members of the Jamaat to engage in fervent prayers and seek forgiveness from God Almighty. Whilst giving advice regarding prayer and repentance, Huzoorra said: “At least one day in a year, you [members of the Jamaat] should [seek forgiveness and] shed tears before God Almighty for your sins as opposed to merely asking Him for the fulfilment of your desires.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 7, p. 324)

11 December 1936: Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra invited Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib of the Paighamis for a debate on the prophethood of the Promised Messiahas. Maulvi Sahib avoided the chance to settle this dispute.

The details of this incident can be found in Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 7, pp. 329-331.

12 December 1948: Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra delivered a lecture about the status of Islam in the contemporary

world and its future. This event was arranged in Maynard Hall, Law College, Lahore by the Ahmadiyya Intercollegiate Association. The session was presided by Justice Sheikh Abdur Rahman, who would go on to become the chief justice of Pakistan.

Commenting on the future of the Islamic world, Huzoorra said: “In my view, the future of the Islamic world is secure, provided we [Muslims] act upon the methods prescribed by the Holy Quran for attaining success.”

At the end of the lecture, the president thanked Huzoorra and said that all the suggestions Huzoorra gave were constructive and added that they were very valuable and must be taken seriously. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 11, p. 408)

13 December 1935: Hazrat Sheikh Abdur Rahmanra, a companion of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, passed away in Delhi at the age of 65.

His body was brought to Qadian on 15 December. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra led his funeral prayer and he was buried in Bahishti Maqbarah. (Al Fazl, 17 December 1935, p. 1) 13 December 1952: A delegation representing the Jamaat called on the chief secretary and home secretary of Punjab to stop spreading false conspiracies about the Jamaat in front of the highest civil authorities of the

At the request of the Government of India, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra inaugurated the installation through making the first call to Hazrat Chaudhry Sir Zafrulla Khanra. Mr Kapoor, Subdivisional Officer of Telegraphs, and Mr Radol, a telephone engineer, worked hard and diligently to get this phone line up and running as soon as possible.

(Al Fazl, 16 December 1936)

15 December 1926: Lajna Imaillah started publishing their magazine, Misbah. Its first editor was Qazi Zuhuruddin Akmal Sahib. (Tarikhe-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p. 566) 15 December 1952: Hazrat Munshi Karam Dinra, a companion of the Promised Messiahas who entered the Jamaat in 1897 and had the honour of writing copies of the books of Hazrat Ahmadas, passed away.

He was very fond of serving the Jamaat. When he reached old age and poor health, and when the administration started looking for a new worker, he humbly requested that he may continue to serve the Jamaat till his last breath. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 14, p. 401)

15 December 1981: Renowned educationist, Qazi Muhammad Aslam Sahib passed away. His father, Hazrat Qazi Dr Karam Ilahira, accepted the Promised Messiahas in 1898. Qazi Muhammad Aslam Sahib was born

7

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

on 2 February 1900. He did an MA in philosophy from Government College Lahore in 1921 and came first and was awarded the Nanak Bakshi Medal. He also studied at Cambridge University.

Qazi Muhammad Aslam Sahib not only wrote many articles, but translated many books of the Promised Messiahas and Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra into English. For almost 40 years, he used to deliver regular speeches in the annual jalsas of Qadian and Rabwah on the subject of the Supreme Being of God. For some time, he also served as amir Jamaat Lahore.

He gave more than 100 lectures on All India Radio and Radio Pakistan. He was a founding member of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences.

16 December 1916: English orientalist, David Samuel Margoliouth travelled from England and visited Qadian. He had the opportunity of meeting Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. The meeting with Huzoorra left a strong and lasting impression on him.

(For more details, see Al Hakam, 2 April 2021, issue no. 159; www.alhakam. org/coming-from-every-distant-trackdavid-samuel-margoliouth-englishorientalist-visits-qadian)

16 December 1952: Hazrat Syed Mahmudullah Shahra, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away. He was born in December 1900 in the house of Hazrat Syed Abdus Sattar Shahra. He had memorised the Holy Quran at the age of eight. He served the Jamaat for a long time as the headmaster of Talim-ul-Islam High School. He strived very hard to grow and maintain high standards of education at the school.

He was the uncle of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and the grandfather of Hazrat Amatul Sabooh Begum Sahiba, wife of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 14, p. 402)

16 December 1961: Proceedings of the three-day Jalsa Salana in Qadian commenced with an attendance of 1,700. It is reported that Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh was also present at this Jalsa.

This jalsa was held on 16, 17, and 18 December. Apart from prominent Ahmadi scholars of India, the following speakers from Pakistan addressed the Jalsa, Khalid-e-Ahmadiyyat Hazrat Maulana Abul Ata Sahib, Prof Maulvi Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Giani Wahid Hussain Sahib, Sahibzada Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh, Mahasha Muhammad Umar Sahib, Sheikh Noor Ahmad Sahib, Maulvi Fazl Ilahi Sahib, and more scholars of the Jamaat. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 21, p. 234)

Voice of Islam Radio UK’s annual conference Raza Ahmad Assistant General Secretary VOI Radio On 27 and 28 November 2021, Voice of Islam Radio (VOI), UK held its virtual annual conference.

The preparations for the conference began in late October, giving us approximately one month to plan and prepare.

A committee consisting of 10 members, headed by the general secretary of VOI Radio, was formed to plan and organise the conference.

Numerous planning meetings were held, including a meeting with the VOI Radio board members.

The planning process included: • Preparing a survey for VOI volunteers, asking them what they would like to be included in the conference • Preparing promotional posters and a promotional video • Preparing a video tour of the VOI studio • Preparing an interactive quiz • Securing speakers • Organising the technical setup On the first day, the session began at 1 pm with separate meetings of the various VOI departments.

The meetings were led by the board members responsible, assisted by the department heads.

Hence, the attendees had an opportunity for more intimate talks with their board members.

This also allowed specific and detailed guidance to be given as well as question and answer sessions to take place. The meetings lasted for an average of one hour each.

The attendance on the first day was 130.

On the second day, the opening session began at 10 am, which was chaired by Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib.

After a recitation from the Holy Quran, a video of the inaugural message of Huzooraa was played. This was followed by a virtual tour of the VOI Radio studio and a speech

by Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib. The session concluded with a silent prayer.

The second session of the day started at 10:30 am, which was chaired by Naib Amir Jamaat UK, Akram Ahmedi Sahib.

For this session, we were joined by three members of the Central Press and Media Team, who shared valuable guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa on media-related issues.

This was followed by presentations by all the board members, many of whom were recapping the points made in their breakout sessions the day before for the benefit of everyone present.

To conclude this session, we held an interactive quiz for all the attendees which included questions about Islamic

knowledge, general knowledge and current affairs.

However, due to time constraints, this happened after the prayers and lunch break. This session concluded at 2:15 pm.

The concluding session commenced at 2:20 pm, with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by silent prayer.

After this, an extended question and answer session was held with Amir Jamaat UK, Rafiq Hayat Sahib and all the VOI board members, followed by an awards distribution ceremony presented by Raza Ahmad Sahib and Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib.

Following this, Amir Jamaat-eAhmadiyya UK addressed the attendees and spoke about the aims and objectives of VOI Radio and the responsibilities of VOI Radio volunteers.

The highlight of the conference was the special message from our beloved Huzooraa to the VOI annual conference, which was read out by Amir Jamaat UK at the conclusion of the conference.

The conference concluded at 4 pm with a silent prayer. The attendance on the second day was 141.

8

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

We can call this mulaqat successful only when we act on the guidance provided USA amila members reflect on hour spent in company of Huzoor Imran Hayee Sadr Majlis Ansarullah USA

Ever since the gracious approval of the mulaqat with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, I started working with the members of the amila to prepare for the meeting. Members were asked to pray and offer sadaqaat in anticipation of the meeting. All members reviewed their annual activity as well as the coming year.

A special meeting was held to go over the preparation and expectation a few days ahead of the meeting. The travel and accommodation plans were finalised. All members were asked to arrive the night before and be at the Baitur Rahman Mosque early Saturday morning. All except two amila members arrived in time (two members had to cancel their plans due to concerning symptoms).

As members were getting ready for the meeting, they shared their sentiments.

Most were very excited and thankful to have the opportunity to have a mulaqat with Huzooraa. They were concerned so as not to displease him by any comment or by not being up to his expectations. Some members mentioned that they kept waking up at night. Qaid Isha‘at mentioned that he had not had a mulaqat for several years and was excited as if he was going to meet a beloved family member.

The MTA team described the format and led a rehearsal for our benefit.

As the members sat in the hall waiting for the live feed, there was pin-drop silence and the anticipation was palpable. Huzoor’s bright countenance appeared and he conveyed the gift of salaam and led us in a silent prayer.

After the meeting, the members appeared delighted, they embraced each other and offered thanks to Allah the Almighty for having had the opportunity to meet the Khalifa of the time. They were also relieved that they were able to aptly relay their reports to Huzooraa.

The impressions of the participants are as follows: Nasir Bukhari Sahib, Zaeem-e-Ala Great Lakes Region said: “Meeting with Huzooraa made my day, year and life. It was so exhilarating. We need to watch the recording many times and

improve ourselves based on the guidance.”

Mahmood Bhutta Sahib, Zaeem-e-Ala New York Region expressed his feeling that Huzooraa answered questions without us even asking. He had a question in his mind about the duration of Covid-19, which Huzooraa clarified without being asked.

Sarjeo Travally Sahib, Zaeem-e-Ala Northeast Region mentioned that he was praying and offered sadaqah. He felt that his prayers were accepted during the meeting with Huzooraa.

Dawood Munir Sahib, Naib Sadr commented that Huzooraa knew about our challenges and was providing guidance without us asking. He mentioned that Huzooraa had been blessed by Allah the Almighty and he was able to do calculations on the spot to analyse our performance.

Lamin Saiyang Sahib, Muawin Sadr

was extremely satisfied after hearing Huzoor’s guidance for Majlis Ansarullah USA. Abu Bakr Saeed Sahib, Nazim-e-Ala Midwest Region pointed out the patience that Huzooraa exhibited throughout the mulaqat. He listened to us for over an hour. There were some interruptions due to technical issues, but Huzooraa was never upset.

We need to learn from Huzooraa and show the same patience in our lives.

Muzaffar Siddiqui Sahib, Qaid Tarbiyat made a point that Huzooraa taught us how to treat our children and younger ones. Huzooraa treated all of us as a loving and gracious father does. We must learn from his example.

Zafar Sahib, Qaid Isaar talked about how Huzooraa expected us to think big and outside the box. Huzooraa repeatedly asked about the members who may not be so strongly connected with the majlis.

Zahid Mian Sahib, Qaid Maal had reviewed the statistics to make sure he was able to answer the questions. He was hoping to ask a question as to how to encourage ansar to pay appropriate chanda. Although he was not able to ask the question, Huzooraa answered it for him.

Anas Mirza Sahib, Zaeem-e-Ala was inspired by Huzoor’s comments that the number of our majalis needed to be 10 times what they were. He expressed the desire that we could increase the number of Ahmadis to fulfil Huzoor’s wish. He felt that Huzooraa loves us tremendously.

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib, Qaid Tabligh also felt that Huzooraa had a way to our hearts and commented on things we couldn’t even ask. He was moved by Huzoor’s comment about increasing the number of jamaats as this has been his deep desire as well. He was able to ask a question about the use of social media.

I (Imran Hayee, Sadr Majlis Ansarullah USA) was also nervous about the meeting.

I was hoping and praying that amila members performed well in response to questions. The mulaqat was better than what I expected. It made me very satisfied and happy. I felt that Huzooraa converted the state of fear into a state of peace for all of us. We can call this mulaqat successful only when we act on the guidance provided by Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa during the year.

May Allah enable us to do so. Amin.

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

Introduction to chapters of the Holy Quran

9

Surah al-An‘am, al-A‘raf, al-Anfal, al-Taubah, Yunus and Hud The English translation of the introduction to chapters of the Holy Quran as given by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh is being presented for the benefit of our readers. InshaAllah, in the coming issues, we will endeavour to publish the introduction to all chapters of the Holy Quran:

Chapter 6: Surah al-An‘am

Chapter 7: Surah al-A‘raf

This surah was revealed in the Meccan period. Including “Bismillah …”, it consists of 166 verses.

In the last verse of the preceding surah, it was stated that Allah was the Master of all the worlds and everything between them.

And the current surah starts with the very subject with more clarity and grandeur.

That is to say, “All praise belongs to Allah, Who created the heavens and earth; and despite numerous types of darkness hindering the way to acquire the essence of their knowledge, Allah also bestowed the required divine insight to continuously dispel all darkness.”

Thus, today’s scientific advancement has uncovered the enshrouded creation of the heavens and earth in such a way that their essence, and what is in them, is coming to light ever greatly. And all darkness is turning into light. As the account of dispelling the darkness at the beginning of (creation) heavens is found, similarly turning of the darkness of the land and sea into light is also found in it. In the same way, from the heavens, calamities befall human beings, which are attracted by the darkness of their inner self. This subject can be found in verse 66 of the current surah.

One such [group of] people are the scientists who are enlightened, as a result of their inquisition, with the secrets of the heavens and earth. The others are the great men of God, like Hazrat Abrahamas, to whom Allah the Almighty disclosed the Kingdom of the heavens and earth. And light descends onto them from the heavens, as has been mentioned in verse 76.

This surah repeatedly talks about the Prophets, descent of their divine books and descent of the guiding light.

This surah also discusses the sprouting of closed seeds and stones as to how from their darkness comes into life flourishing plants. Similarly, the account of stars is found therein as to how they dispel the darkness of land and sea and guide the travellers.

A very profound verse consisting of this topic is found in the ruku that starts from verse 96, i.e. all types of clustered seeds are

This surah was revealed in Mecca with the exception of a few verses. Including “Bismillah …” it contains 207 verses.

Two preceding surahs, i.e. Surah alBaqarah and Surah Al-e-Imran, started with the abbreviated letters of ‫[ الم‬alif laam meem]. This surah starts with an additional letter of ‫[ ص‬saad] on ‫[ الم‬alif laam meem], which connotes that the subject-matters discussed in the preceding surahs will be added with some more, which relate to Allah’s attribute of being Sadiq [Truthful].

Saad also stands for saadiqul-qaul [truthful in statement]. But in verse 3, the Holy Prophet’ssa chest has been called sadr, which implies that the Holy Prophetsa was fully convinced about the subject-matters of the surahs that started with alif laam meem and their being from God. This surah adds an additional subjectmatter to the preceding ones that not only will the disbelievers of the Prophets be held accountable; rather, the Prophets themselves will also be held accountable as to what extent they discharged their responsibilities.

Adamas has been discussed in this surah again. He was created with the command of Allah the Almighty. Once Allah the Almighty had breathed His spirit into Adamas, He commanded human beings to obey him. Here, the discussion of the Holy Prophetsa is implied in the sense that the greatest of the prostrations ever done to Allah the Almighty was made by the Holy Prophetsa. It is in this relation that all human beings have been commanded to submit to him. And this prostration of the Holy Prophet’ssa has been discussed at the end of the preceding surah in the following words:

brought forth from foliage and all types of fruit are produced. Ponder over the system of ripening of these fruits. There are numerous signs in it for those who believe in the signs of Allah the Almighty.

Foliage is produced from chlorophyll, which in itself is a great sign. The scientists failed to find any evolutionary stages in it.

It is an extremely complex chemical that is more complex than any other chemical.

In the very inception of life, chlorophyll is required, which caused man’s creation. The question of through which evolutionary stages, at that time, chlorophyll came into being is still a mystery. The remarkable point to be noted is that chlorophyll makes life with the help of light, and not fire. The very subject of light as to what revolutions it has brought in the heavens and earth reaches its culmination at the end of this surah.

This surah also discusses worn-out superstitions of the idolaters related to an‘am i.e. cattle who had been created by

Allah the Almighty as a support for human life; but they, through various idolatrous rituals, laid to waste all wisdom with regard to cattle.

At the end of the surah, not only are lawful and unlawful things with relation to the cattle explained; rather, morally lawful and unlawful things are also explained. In other words, not only physical sustenance but spiritually lawful and unlawful things are discussed; and we are exhorted to be kind to one’s parents, who go through extreme hardships for their children.

There is a verse at the end of this surah that mentions the complete obedience of the Holy Prophetsa before his Lord with such perfection that anything better than that was impossible. No divine book, the world over, contains such a verse. The Holy Prophetsa was directed to announce that his prayers and all his sacrifices were not like that of an‘am; rather, sacrifices of the emotions of his heart, his life and his death had been dedicated purely for his Lord.

ّٰ ۡ َ ۡ َ ‫ُق ۡل ِا َّن َﺻ�َ� ِت ۡی َو ن ُ ُس ِک ۡی َو َم ۡح َی‬ ‫ای َو َم َما ِت ۡی لِل ِہ َر ِّب ال ٰعل ِمي َن‬

[That is, “Say, ‘My Prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds.’”]

In conclusion, submission to the one who has dedicated everything of his in the way of Allah does not at all amount to idolatry; rather, obedience to him will be counted as obedience to Allah the Continued next page >>

10

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

Almighty.

Thereafter comes the mention of the dress which Adamas wore apparently in the form of leaves. In reality, it meant nothing but libaasut-taqwa [the attire of righteousness]. Similarly, human beings have been warned that as Satan misled the people of Adamas, in this age, he is also misleading the people of other prophets.

Expulsion from Heaven in truth means expulsion from the sphere of the Shariah, as within the sphere of Shariah lies Heaven, and without it lies nothing but Hell.

Even today, as a result of going out of the sphere of Shariah of the Holy Quran, all human beings have been afflicted with all sorts of physical and spiritual Hell. The very subject that true beauty, in reality, is that of righteousness, has been discussed in the following verse, that “you cannot attain beauty by going to the mosque unless you go along with your beauty” i.e. righteousness.

This surah also discusses the loftiest standing of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, which was not bestowed upon any other Prophet. That is to say, he and his Companionsra enjoyed such cognisance of the people of Heaven that because of their spiritual standing, they would be able to tell apart the inmates of Heaven from Hell on Judgement Day. Thereafter, many other prophets have been mentioned that they too were sent merely for the guidance of their respective people. And they made utmost sacrifices for their respective people and procured the means of their guidance. But above all, it was the Holy Prophet, Muhammadsa who procured means for the guidance of people.

Thereafter, it has been clearly explained that the past Prophetsas too had attained lofty spiritual stations. But their munificence was limited, and before the Holy Prophetsa, no other prophet came with universal munificence. Thus, the Holy Prophetsa was selected as the chief of all the Prophets because he was a source of mercy for the whole world. That is to say, he was a mercy for the East and West, and for Arabs and all the foreign lands, as well as for human beings and animals.

This is something that has been profusely mentioned in hadith literature.

The first of the judgements that were to occur by the Holy Prophetsa occurred in the very lifetime of the Holy Prophetsa, which finds its mention in

َّ َ َ َ ۡ َ ‫الس‬ ُ‫اع ُۃ َو ان ۡ َش َّق الۡقَ َمر‬ ‫ِاقترب ِت‬

[“The Hour has drawn nigh, and the moon is rent asunder.”] The second judgement was to occur in the Latter Days in the time of the “akharin”, because the dead who had died once again after their revival had to be revived once again. Then there is another judgement which was to occur on ashraarun-naas [the worst of people]. All these judgement days are closely linked with the advent of the Holy Prophetsa.

Chapter 8: Surah al-Anfal This surah was revealed in Medina.

Including “Bismillah …”, it consists of 76 verses. The financial blessings of God as a result of war are called anfal.

In the preceding Surah Al-A‘raf (verse

188), the time of the occurrence of “sa‘ah”, or Judgment was asked about by the infidels. Its first manifestation has been explained in detail in the current surah. It has been communicated that that sa‘ah has fallen on the Arabs in whose result the era of disbelief and idolatry would come to an end.

At the end of the preceding surah, a warning was given [to the believers] as to a very terrible time that was going to be faced. Therefore, from now onwards, [the Holy Prophetsa] should supplicate to Allah the Almighty humbly and earnestly, humbly submitting to Him in private and aloud because all the difficulties would be resolved only by his prayers.

At the very outset of this surah, glad tidings are given that as a result of difficulties, the believers would be relieved of their straitened circumstances. In connection to the difficulties, first of all, the Battle of Badr is mentioned.

As special attention was drawn towards supplications at the end of the preceding surah, it has been noticed that the victory given to the Muslims in the Battle of Badr was merely a result of the special prayers of the Holy Prophetsa. Otherwise, the 313 Companionsra who joined him in this battle were no match whatsoever against the invading army of the idolaters of Mecca, except from the spiritual point of view.

The Meccans possessed the best mounts and the best war equipment, and the best divisions of archers accompanied them.

Aside from that, to excite the emotions of warriors for war, the best female singers also accompanied them whose songs created a state of madness on armies.

Against all this the supplications of the Holy Prophetsa triumphed, which he made in his camp crying profusely in a state that the cloth from his shoulders fell down repeatedly and Hazrat Abu Bakrra would put it back. The pinnacle of the prayer was the following utterance of his: ْ ُ َ َ ْ ْ ْ َ ‫َ ّٰ ُ َّ ْ ُ ْ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ُ م ْن‬ ‫ام لا ت ْع َبد ِفی‬ ِ ‫اللھم اِن تھلک ھ ِذ ِہ ال ِعصابۃ ِ اھ ِل ال ِاسل‬ َْ ْ ‫ض‬ ِ ‫الار‬ (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Jihad) i.e. “The purpose of the creation of the jinn and humans is nothing but worship. And these men whom I have trained to worship you alone, if they are killed today, then never ever again can any community be raised to truly worship You.” Thus, all the credit of the victory of the Battle of Badr goes merely to the supplications of the Holy Prophetsa.

Furthermore, the believers have also been educated that the decisive weapon to differentiate between the truth and falsehood is none other than taqwa [true fear and awareness of God]. “In future too, if you desire to overpower the strongest powers of the world, then [remember] it is only possible when you remain steadfast on taqwa.”

Another point made clear at this juncture is that the Holy Prophetsa and his Companionsra would have never waged war [qitaal] if efforts had not been made to change their religion by force (through warfare). The biggest disorder caused in the world had always been and will continue to be, converting peoples’ faiths by force. In such a case, defensive measures are allowed, only as long as this disorder is brought to a complete end.

Similarly, it has been exhorted that one must profusely remember Allah for steadfastness. Thus, during the horrific wars, those who continuously raise the slogans of remembrance of Allah are being conveyed the glad tidings that surely, they will be the prosperous, as every success comes only with the remembrance of Allah.

The last two verses of the surah mention that if pressure from the enemy intensifies and resultantly, you have to migrate from your homeland, then this migration would be counted in the way of Allah. In lieu of this, you will be granted help from the Divine. And besides forgiveness, Allah the Almighty will abundantly bless the provisions of the emigrants.

This prophecy has always been fulfilled in great style. Some other forms of blessings in provisions, whose mention was made at the beginning of the surah in the form of anfal, have also been mentioned here that as a result of migration, the ways of provisions would be widely opened for the migrants.

Chapter 9: Surah al-Taubah This surah was revealed in Medina immediately after Surah al-Anfal. It consists of 129 verses.

The wars and ensuing trials and rewards were mentioned at the end of Surah alAnfal. The matters arising as a result of these wars i.e. that the enemy would definitely be overpowered and would feel forced to sign treaties with the Holy Prophetsa and his Companionsra, have been discussed in the very beginning of this surah. Thus, justice demands that as long as they adhere to treaties, Muslims should

never violate them.

The negative consequences of violation of treaties, whose mention starts from Surah al-Fatihah and is found in various forms in all the preceding surahs, is mentioned in this surah as well. But as the enemy violates the treaties and is meted out with punishments, the believers are warned that in all circumstances, they will have to adhere to them.

Recurrently, in this surah is found the discussion that no victory of the believers is, or can be, the result of their better equipment or their outnumbering the enemy. In this very connection, the Battle of Hunain was mentioned, wherein the Muslim army heavily outnumbered the disbelievers. And some of the Muslims presumed that the disbelievers could not overpower them, whereas when outnumbered, they had been triumphing over huge confederates of the enemy. The Muslims have been exhorted at this point that when they were outnumbered, they had been triumphing only as a result of the supplications of the Holy Prophetsa. Therefore, the presumption of their outnumbering was being shattered now; but after a rout, they would again overpower the enemy as a result of the supplications and steadfastness of this very Prophetsa.

Thereafter comes the mention of the bestowal of the abundance of riches, as a result of which the jealous hypocrites failed to desist from criticising, God forbid, the Holy Prophetsa for being unjust in the distribution of war gains. Whereas whatever the Holy Prophetsa distributed was not given to his relatives; rather, he spent it on the welfare of migrants, less privileged,

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021 indigent, those entangled in problems, people caught in vicious cycles of debt and those living in straitened circumstances.

Thus, they have been warned that they would be destroyed if they blamed the trustworthy Prophetsa of dishonesty. In fact, such criticisers themselves are dishonest and cheat.

At the end of this surah is mentioned a verse that says, “This is the Prophetsa who undergoes hardships purely for your welfare. Whatever pain you undergo in the way of Allah the Almighty is grievous for him. And hardness against the disbelievers has nothing to do with the hardness of his heart. His heart is so compassionate and full of mercy that he is an embodiment of the Compassionate and Merciful God.”

Chapter 10: Surah Yunus This is a Meccan surah and including “Bismillah …”, it consists of 110 verses.

Surah al-Baqarah and Surah Al-eImran start with the abbreviated letters of “Alif laam meem”, whereas in this surah, the letter meem has been replaced with raa.

Adopting the previous translation style, this may be translated as:

َ ّٰ َ َ ‫انا الل ُہ ا َری‬

that is, “I am Allah, the All-Seeing”.

The major theme of this surah is the trial of Hazrat Jonahas [Jonah]; for this very reason, this surah is called Yunus.

In the very beginning of the surah, Allah the Almighty raises a question, “Is it a matter of wonder for men that We have sent down revelation to a man from among them?” The answer implied [in the question] is that peoples’ wonder is the testimony from their own selves as they have inclined entirely to materialism, which is why Allah the Almighty does not send down revelation to them. In fact, judging from their own yardstick, they presume that Allah the Almighty cannot send down revelation to any man whatsoever.

Immediately thereafter, Allah the Almighty says that it is Allah Who created the entire universe and adopted the best strategy in everything; would He allow this work to go to waste. The culminating point of this strategy is to raise such an intercessor i.e. the Holy Prophetsa who, by the command of Allah, will intercede not only for the deserving men of his own people but intercede in favour of the righteous men from all the past peoples.

Thereafter, the similitude of the Holy Prophetsa has been given with a sun, through whose light earthly life benefits.

And with its munificence, a full moon is yet to be raised who, in the hours of darkness, would continue to deliver the benefit of the sun’s light to earth.

It is a wonderful phenomenon that even in the material world, some vegetables grow so fast in the lustre of the moon that even the sound of their growth can be heard. As regards melons, scientists say that a sound is produced because of the fast speed of their growth, which is audible by human ears. Thus, it is Allah Who made the day as well as the night a source of life.

Surah Yunus talks about a people who were entirely saved from a punishment, whose threat they had received. And the following Surah Hud talks about such peoples who were totally destroyed because of their disbelief.

11 Chapter 11: Surah Hud

This is a Meccan surah and including “Bismillah …”, it consists of 124 verses.

Its connection with the preceding surah has been explained in the introduction of the previous one. One aspect of this surah is quite prominent that according to its 113th verse:

َ َ َ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ َُۤ​َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ‫اب َم َعک‬ ‫فاست ِقم کما ا ِمرت و من ت‬

“So stand thou upright, as thou has been commanded, and [also] those who have turned [to Allah] with thee”, so huge a responsibility had been laid on the Holy Prophetsa that he said: َ َ ُ ‫ش ّی َب ْت ِن ْی ھ ْو ٌد‬ that is, “Surah Hud has made me old.”

Furthermore, this surah discusses those peoples who were destroyed because of refusing to accept a prophet. The Holy Prophetsa was extremely pained because of their grief as well.

Verse 18 of this surah mentions a past testimony in favour of the Holy Prophetsa i.e. the testimony of Hazrat Mosesas, and also talks about a witness who was to be born after the Holy Prophetsa. The mention of this witness is found in Surah al-Buruj in the following words:

ْ َ َ ‫َو شا ِھ ٍد ّو َمش ُھوْد‬

i.e. “In a future age, a great shahid [witness] would testify in favour of the truthfulness of the greatest mashhood [the one for whom testimony is given]” i.e. the Holy Prophetsa.

Thereafter, as Surah Yusuf starts with a verse that mentions one of the best accounts, therefore, at the end of this surah, Allah the Almighty says that all the accounts of the past prophets related before the Holy Prophetsa are meant to strengthen his heart. It also implies that the accounts mentioned in Surah Hud were not meant to hurt the feelings of the Holy Prophetsa.

(Translated from the original introduction of chapters as presented in the Urdu translation of the Holy Quran by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Translated

by Shahid Mahmood Ahmad, missionary in Ghana)

Preserving the past to inspire posterity New Zealand Jamaat educates on blessed history with Khilafat Sabahuzafar Missionary New Zealand

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Aotearoa (New Zealand) have been organising online sessions with scholars of the Jamaat. These sessions provide an opportunity for our members to benefit from the “company of the righteous” and enhance their educational and moral standards from the comfort of their homes.

Beginning last year, from the very outset of our lockdowns, we have held 20 of these sessions with markazi officeholders and missionaries from various countries.

Along with khuddam and atfal, the wider Jamaat members have attended and participated in these interactive discussions.

These inspirational and faith-inspiring talks have been a great source of increasing our knowledge and enhancing our spirituality.

As part of these discussions, we have had missionaries and other personalities serving the Jamaat in various parts of the world in attendance. One such sitting in a two-part series was with Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib, Missionary-in-Charge UK. The first of the series of programmes was held on 30 October 2021, and the second on 6 November 2021.

Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib narrated his personal recollections with the Khulafa-eAhmadiyyat, highlighting the significance and blessings of forming a strong bond with Khilafat. His account of the migration of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh from Pakistan to the UK was of particular interest.

Jamaat members were grateful to Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib for the time spent in his company, listening to the faith-inspiring incidents of the blessings of Khilafat and being in the service of the Jamaat.

Commenting on the positive impact of these sittings, Sadr Lajna Imaillah New Zealand, Zabila Cheema Sahiba said: “It was a great pleasure and privilege to be part of the online sessions with Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib. The historic recollections given by him were aweinspiring and were reflective of a truly strong love and bond with Khilafat.”

Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya New Zealand, Azeem Zafarullah Sahib said: “As the youth of Ahmadiyyat, there is much for us to take away from the experiences of our respected elders and waqifeen-e-zindagi – whether it be through the accounts of the tarbiyat instilled by their parents or the life lessons learned through close proximity to Khulafa-e-Ahmadiyyat – we find gems of wisdom, which we have benefited from immensely by the grace of Allah.”

National President of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya New Zealand, Bashir Khan Sahib said: “We have been truly blessed to take part in these virtual sessions and very much touched and inspired in hearing about these moving accounts about Khulafae-Ahmadiyyat, the Jamaat’s historical milestones and the selfless services rendered by waqifeen-e-zindagi in the propagation of Islam Ahmadiyyat.”

Opening of new Ahmadiyya mosque in Lunsar region, Sierra Leone Abdul Hadi Qurashi Sierra Leone Correspondent

On 25 November 2021, Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Sierra Leone inaugurated a new mosque in Lunsar region’s Mashtle Jamaat, Sierra Leone.

The foundation stone was laid by the regional Missionary, Rana Babar Shehzad Sahib – who also oversaw the construction of the mosque – on 15 November 2021.

Approximately 200 people can offer prayers in this mosque.

On 25 November 2021, the opening ceremony, which was chaired by Saeedur Rahman Sahib, Amir and Missionary-incharge Sierra Leone, commenced with a

recitation from the Holy Quran with its translation.

Amir Sahib delivered an address in which he explained the importance of congregational Salat, and briefly presented a history of the Jamaat’s services in Sierra Leone during the past hundred years.

After the address, he formally cut the ribbon and opened the mosque, and then the Zuhr prayer was offered in the mosque.

This blessed event was attended by approximately 1,000 people including a paramount chief, two regent chiefs, deputy district Imam, a councillor, many nonAhmadi Imams and representatives of 22 Jamaats.

This proved to be a great source of

preaching Islam Ahmadiyyat to the nonAhmadi guests.

We pray that may Allah the Almighty always keep this mosque inhabited with true worshipers.

12

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

100 Telegram of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II to the Years Prince of Wales, tabligh in Mauritius and jalsa of Ago...

Anjuman Ahmadiyya Nairobi, Africa Al Fazl, 1 & 8 December 1921

Telegram of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih to the Prince of Wales and his answer The following telegram was sent by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] on the occasion of the arrival of the Prince of Wales in India: “Heir to the throne of the British Empire!

I personally congratulate you on your arrival in India and also [welcome you] on behalf of more than half a million members of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, who are spread all across the parts of the Empire and in other countries as well. I pray to God Almighty to make your arrival a source of love and peace, and to bless your journey and guide you in your works.”

In reply, the following telegram was received: “As per the wish of His Royal Highness, I thank you for the welcome message you have sent on behalf of yourself and your Jamaat.”

Al Fazl, 8 December 1921 Tabligh of Ahmadiyyat in Mauritius Sufi Ghulam Muhammad Sahib BA, missionary to Mauritius, has now started to send accounts of tabligh. The summary of his recent letters is that he delivered a dars [religious sermon] of the Holy Quran at St

Pierre on 1 October [1921], presented mail from London and America [to members of the Jamaat] and read out newspaper excerpts which mentioned Eid-ul-Adha in London and the denial of Jesus’ divinity by the clergy.

On 2 October, in the afternoon, a gathering was held at Cinema Hall, Rose Hill, under the chairmanship of Mazu Sahib.

During the proceedings, a priest said, “I am a denier of trinity and a believer in tawhid [the unity of God]. Next time, I will deliver a speech where there will be Christians present as well.”

Thereafter, Sufi Sahib gave a speech against shirk [association of partners with Allah] and explained the purpose of the appearance of the Promised Messiahas and also presented as to how his mission was spreading across the world.

On 9 October, at noon, a jalsa was held under the presidency of Maulana Abdullah Mauritiusi Sahib at Cinema Hall, Rose Hill. To begin with, the president of the gathering gave a speech on the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas in which he substantiated the truth of his claim by various arguments of the Holy Quran. After that, at the request of the chairman of the jalsa, Sufi Sahib delivered a speech on the existence of God. On Friday, 11 October, Sufi Sahib and a

few other friends met Brother Elahi Bakhsh Sahib Bhanu who had returned from India.

They asked him about the then state of affairs of Qadian. As he had also gone to Kashmir, he told them about the shrine of Prophet Jesusas.

On 23 October, a gathering was held under the chair of Muhammad Ibrahim Acha Mazu Sahib at Cinema Hall, Rose Hill, in which speeches were delivered.

On 26 October, a jalsa was held under the presidency of Mr Noor Mohammad Nooria Sahib at the same Cinema Hall, Rose Hill. Mazu Sahib delivered a speech on “Ismuhu Ahmad” which was repeated by the president of the jalsa in Creole. Thereafter, the letters from the missionaries of America and Ceylon etc. were read out.

A jalsa of Anjuman Ahmadiyya Nairobi, Africa The tabligh secretary of Nairobi Jamaat, East Africa reports that their jamaat held a tabligh gathering at the Royal Theatre on 23 October [1921]. There, various friends gave speeches and opponents were given an opportunity to express their doubts and their questions were answered.

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 1 and 8 December 1921 issue of Al Fazl)

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

Coming from every distant track

13

Theodore Leighton Pennell, English Protestant missionary and doctor, visits Qadian: Part I A series looking at the high standard of morals of the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa when receiving visitors in Qadian

Tahmeed Ahmad Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre

Theodore Leighton Pennell was born in 1867 and passed away on 23 December 1912. He was a doctor and an English Protestant missionary who spent some time living among the tribes of Afghanistan.

Pennell joined the Church Missionary Society in 1890, arriving in India by 1892.

He began learning Punjabi in 1901, making him proficient in three Indian languages including Urdu and Pashtun. He eventually travelled through Punjab by bicycle in 1904.

It was during this trip that TL Pennell visited Qadian, an account of which he published in his book, Among the Wild Tribes of the Afghan Frontier.

He stayed in foreign lands for 16 years, leaving for England in 1908. On his return to India, he married Alice Sorabji who was the first woman in India to earn a bachelor’s of science degree.

Pennell founded the Pennell High School and a missionary hospital in Bannu in the NorthW e s t Frontier of British India, now Pa k i s t a n .

For his work, he received the Kaisar-i-Hind Medal for public service in India.

On many occasions, the Promised Messiahas received the revelation from Allah Almighty that people from all over the world would come to Qadian.

In March 1882, the Promised Messiahas received the following revelation: َ ُْ َ ْ َ َ ُّ َ َ ُّ ‫يَاتِ ْیک ِم ْن � ِل ف ٍ ّ� ﻋ ِم ْی ٍﻖ۔ يَات ْو َن ِم ْن � ِل ف ٍ ّ� ﻋ ِم ْی ٍﻖ۔ ي َ ْن ُ� ُ�ك‬ ٰ َ ٓ َّ َ ّ ْ ْ َ ٓ ْ ْ ُّ ٌ َ َ ُ ُ ْ َ ‫اللّ ُہ ِم ْن ِﻋ ْن ِد ٖہ۔ ين��ك ِرﺟال ﻧو ِﺣی اِلی�ِ� ِمن‬ ‫الﺴ َما ِء لا‬ َ َّ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ َ َّ ّ ٰ ‫ات الل ِہ۔ اِﻧا ف� ْح َنالک ف�حًا ّم ِب ْی ًنا۔‬ ِ ‫ُم َب ِدل �ِ�لِ َم‬ “People will come to you so that the track will become deep due to excessive travel. So many people will come to you that the track on which they travel will become deep. Allah will help you from Himself.

Such people will help you whom We shall inspire from Ourself. No one can change the words of Allah. We will bestow upon you a manifest victory.” (Tadhkirah [English

translation], p. 57) Two accounts are available of Pennell’s journey to Qadian. The first one, as mentioned above, is from his book, Among the Wild Tribes of the Afghan Frontier. The other is an account written by his wife, Alice Maude Sorabji Pennell, Pennell of the Afghan Frontier: The Life of Theodore Leighton Pennell. The accounts only differ in style of narration, otherwise they are remarkably similar in terms of context.

Presented below is the account of Pennell’s travel to Qadian from his book with some additional notes provided from his wife’s account. (It should be noted that due to being a Christian, Pennell saw Hazrat Ahmad’s claim as the Messiah as something objectionable, something which he voices below): “Passing over our [Dr Pennell, accompanied by a gentlemen named Jahan Khan] stay here [in India] and at other intervening places, I might mention our visit to Kadian, rendered famous by being the headquarters of the Muhammadan reformer Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who died in 1908. This man had collected around him a band of zealous followers, but, unfortunately, the good he might have done was nullified by his impious claim to be the returned Messiah, in accordance with which he professed miraculous powers, and demanded a correspondingly abject obedience.

“Heavy rain-clouds were overcasting the sky when we [Dr Pennell and Jahan Khan] set out, and we had scarcely covered the eleven miles of unmade road that connects Batala with Kadian when the downpour commenced, and continued throughout the day. Moulvi Muhammad Sadiq [Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra], the head-master of the Mirza’s High School, received us with the greatest courtesy, and gave us one of the schoolrooms to rest in, and shortly afterwards, as the Mirza himself was indisposed and unable to see us, we were taken into the presence of his lieutenant, Moulvi Moha-ud-din [Alice has used the name Maulvi Nur-ud-din which is believed to be correct, and confirmed

by Al Hakam on 10 January 1904]. This Moulvi is very learned, probably the most learned in Kadian; he comes from the town of Bhera, in the Panjab, but has travelled a good deal. He was teaching theology to a large class of youths and men in Eastern fashion, reclining on a simple mat and a cushion himself, while his pupils sat on the ground round him. Tea was brought in for

us and him while he went on teaching. The Hadis [Hadith] from which the pupils were reading was on the subject of prayer, and the Moulvi explained the passages with great force and perspicuity as the pupils read them out turn by turn. After some dissertation on the correct intonation of prayers, he took up (probably for our benefit) a comparison of the texts of the Quran and the Bible, showing how the custom of committing the former to memory had resulted in its verbal correctness. Following, the same line, Muhammad Sadiq compared with this the recent criticisms on the Bible by the Christian expositors; and the ‘Encyclopaedia Biblica’, which he seemed to have studied minutely, afforded him an inexhaustible store of argument.

“After this the midday meal was brought in, and then we were sent for by a relation of the Nawab of Maler-Kotla, who had become a disciple of the Mirza, and had devoted himself and his resources to his service, and was living in the village in a simple, almost Spartan, manner. After conversation with him and others, I was shown the high school, college classes, and boarding-house.

Though the buildings for the latter were second-rate, yet the management seemed good, and the inmates orderly and welltrained. In particular I noticed that, though the next morning was chilly and drizzly, yet all were up at the first streak of dawn, and turned methodically out of their warm beds into the cold yard, and proceeded to the mosque, where all united in morning prayers, after which most of them devoted themselves to reading the Quran for half an hour to one hour. Many of the masters, too, seemed very earnest in their work, and had given up much higher emoluments to work for quite nominal salaries in the cause to which they had devoted themselves.

“We were fairly tired out with a long day of talking and interviewing, and slept soundly. We were disappointed, too, in receiving a message that the Mirza was still too unwell to see us, but would do so in the morning. However, when morning dawned we heard with much regret that he had passed a bad night and was still unable to see anyone. As his attendants were unable to hold out any prospect of a speedy interview, and as, indeed, we felt doubtful whether the interview was desired, we prepared for an early start. We had been kindly and hospitably received, and there was something inspiriting in seeing a number of educated men thoroughly zealous and keen in the active pursuit of religion, though the

strong spirit of antagonism to Christianity was saddening.” (Theodore Leighton Pennell, Among the Wild Tribes of the Afghan Frontier, publication 1922, pp. 247-249) Alice Maude Sorabji Pennell has mentioned in her book, Pennell of the Afghan Frontier: The Life of Theodore Leighton Pennell that on a different occasion, Dr Pennell also met with “Muhammad Ahsan”, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, and whilst working in Bannu, a son of the Promised Messiahas, believed to be Sahibzada Mirza Sultan Ahmad.

(To be continued …)

14

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

Tahajjud: An exclusive rendezvous

Amtul Hafeez Kashmala ButtAhmad Germany Love requires effort. We have to make an effort to build and strengthen our relationships. Verbal expression of love is pleasant, but going an extra mile and showing inner feelings through our actions, grabs the attention of the other person.

The same approach needs to be adopted in order to establish and enhance a relationship with Allah the Almighty.

We must display our love for Allah by our conduct if we claim to adore Him. Although there are beautiful ways to have our hearts connected to Allah, one of the most beneficial ways to express our love to Allah and to gain His nearness is performing the voluntary night prayer, also called Tahajjud.

As Tahajjud is a non-mandatory prayer, it requires greater effort from our side to perform it. It is difficult to wake up in the middle of the night when we are in deep sleep. However, just as in our worldly relationships we continually strive to have a stronger bond with our loved ones, we should seize every opportunity to get

closer to our Creator. And what a blessing it is to have Tahajjud as a gateway to Allah’s compassion and His utmost blessings as He Himself mentions:

ً َ‫َو ِم َن الَّ ۡیل َف َت َہ َّج ۡد ب ٖہ نَافِ َل ًۃ لَّ َک ۖ٭ َع ٰۤسی اَ ۡن ّیَ ۡب َع َث َک َر ّبُ َک َمق‬ ‫اما‬ ِ ِ َ ‫ّم ۡح ُموۡ ًدا‬

“And wake up for it [the Quran] in [the latter part of] the night as a supererogatory service for thee. It may be that thy Lord will raise thee to an exalted station. (Surah Bani Isra‘il, Ch.17: V. 80) Because Satan is continuously lurking around to attack us, we must ask Allah for His assistance in waking up for Tahajjud.

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrated that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Satan puts three knots at the back of the head of any of you if he is asleep.

On every knot he reads and exhales the following words, ‘The night is long, so stay asleep.’ When one wakes up and remembers Allah, one knot is undone; and when one performs ablution, the second knot is undone, and when one prays, the third knot is undone and one gets up, energetic with a good heart in the morning; otherwise one gets up lazy and with a mischievous heart.” (Sahih alBukhari, The Book of Tahajjud, hadith no.

1142)

If we truly understand the essence of this night prayer, performed when the world is asleep and unconscious of the One Who is waiting for us to turn to Him, how can we let this wonderful chance pass by?

In another hadith about Tahajjud, Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrated that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: ‘Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to [their] invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him their request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive them?’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, The Book of Tahajjud, Hadith 1145) This occurs every night, which illustrates Allah’s mercy and how near He is – yet only some of us make an effort to have a heart-to-heart with our Creator.

Our beloved Prophetsa has not only verbally mentioned the importance of Tahajjud, but also demonstrated highly noble standards of worship.

Hazrat Mughirahra narrated that the Holy Prophetsa used to stand in the prayer or pray till both his feet or legs swelled.

He was asked why (he offered such an unbearable prayer), to which he said, “Should I not be a thankful servant.” (Ibid, Hadith 1130) The Promised Messiahas also manifested the significance of Tahajjud prayer by including it in the third condition of bai‘at: “That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); and shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the Tahajjud (predawn supererogatory prayers) and invoking durood (blessings) on the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); that he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him. (Conditions of Bai‘at, www.alislam. org/articles/conditionsinitiation-baiat/) The Promised as Messiah instructed us and said: “Our Jamaat should make it incumbent upon itself to offer Tahajjud.

Anyone who cannot do more should make at a minimum two rak‘aat because he will get an opportunity to make some supplications.

Supplications made at this time have a very special characteristic because they are offered with true pain

and eagerness. Until there is a special pain and heartfelt agony, how can one wake up from comfortable sleep? To wake up at this time creates a heartfelt pain, which creates a condition of devotion and distress, which in turn become the means of acceptance of supplication. But someone who is lax in waking up is obviously lacking in pain and anguish. But one who wakes up, obviously there is a pain that is waking him up.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 2) The Promised Messiahas also said: “Get up at night and supplicate that Allah the Almighty may guide you to His path. The Companions of the Holy Prophetsa also received their training step by step. What were they before? They were like a seed sown by a farmer. The Holy Prophetsa in turn watered and prayed for it. The seed was healthy, and the soil was fertile. With watering, it yielded excellent fruit. They walked the path of the Holy Prophetsa without hesitation. They did not wait for day or night. You should repent with a true heart. Wake up for Tahajjud.

Straighten your hearts. Leave your weaknesses, and make your words and deeds correspond to the will of Allah the Almighty.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1) If we can set our minds to achieve worldly targets, can we not also develop the same determination to attain spiritual goals?

The Promised Messiahas said: “If our entire lives are spent in worldly engagements, what will we have accumulated for the Hereafter? Make a special effort to wake up for Tahajjud and offer it with fervour and joy.” (Ibid) Nothing is impossible if we ask for Allah’s help, have pure intentions and are willing to work for it.

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

100 Years Ago...

15

Tabligh tour of West Africa

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)

A week’s tour I have already mentioned in my previous letter that I am engaged in a [tabligh] tour these days and the said tour is the primary purpose of my programme. According to this programme, I have visited Winnehah and Saltpond districts. As the tour of a particular part of the aforementioned [Winnehah] district was left, I completed it during this last visit. During that tour, I travelled 138 miles and in addition to meetings on an individual basis and preaching, I gave speeches at five different places. That week, or the first four days or four stages of the Haft Khan [the Seven Labours of Rustam], are interesting stories from the events of my life.

Destination The sky was clear and the road was open.

On the first day of the tour’s programme, there was an inspection of the Eshiem constituency. The people had gathered there on that day. At nine o’clock, the car departed from Saltpond. We had just travelled 20 miles when a series of accidents began.

The driver’s shortsightedness and poor conditions of the roads caused the car to slip in the mud and its wheels got stuck, so much so that it was impossible to get them out.

After waiting for an hour, some labourers were called from a nearby village and the car was pulled out of the mud. We safely crossed the river, but the tire burst and so we had to wait for repairs.

Thereafter, the destination came close and two men were present for the reception on the royal road. We went along with them on the forest road. The said people made the mistake of not mentioning the hard and steep descent along the way. Consequently, the car broke down so badly on that path that it was impossible for it to move forward.

Leaving the car in the forest, we proceeded on foot. The boys and girls had come one mile outside of Eshiem with small flags and ّ ّ ‫صل علٰی‬ they started to recite ‫محمد‬ as usual. I was happy to observe the change that the boys and girls were standing in separate rows. All praise belongs to Allah that whenever I express displeasure in a matter or instruct [the people of Africa], they immediately comply with it. Eventually, I reached the destination.

Sermons, advice and sincerity of jamaat After reaching the destination, I led the Jumuah prayer and since the Englishspeaking interpreter was not present, the sermon was delivered in Arabic and the interpreter conveyed it to the people in Fante language and conveyed my words in the best possible way. Thereafter, I gave advice to the whole jamaat and talked to a Muslim of the Hausa tribe in Arabic and

Al Fazl, 1 & 8 December 1921 explained to him the characteristics of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. The said person attested to the truth [of the Jamaat] by calling out loudly, “Haqqan, haqqan and haqqan.”

As the car had broken down and 50 men were needed to go up the hill to bring it back on the road, I said that those who wanted to go should perform that task. I was glad to see that Amir Ibrahim, Chief Ishaq Sahib and Jamaat Abakuá, who were guests at the place, got up first and said that they would go. The said action of elders and influential people on the one hand was an expression of their sincerity and was a source of encouragement to the youth on the other.

The entire jamaat stood up and I sent 50 local gentlemen.

The Fante people will turn out to be good Ahmadis, insha-Allah. There, I also gave two sermons to Christians and idolaters, who were gathered separately, and answered their questions. The interpreter at that time was an Arabic speaker and for some time, an average English speaker.

Loss of sleep at night Some Christians came in the evening with a Bible, and when I presented two Bibles, which I keep with me, and said to one of them, “Please, open chapter 17, verse 21 from the book of Matthew,” he immediately took out the verse. Then, I said, “Please, find the same verse in this second Bible.” The innocent man was astonished as he could not find the verse.

After that, I offered Salat and lay down on the charpoy [Indian style bed], but as there was only one sheet on a wooden

charpoy, such a struggle took place between my bones and the hard wood that I spent the whole night conversing with Allah the Almighty and counting the pictures of the room.

There were many pictures on the walls of the room and all of them were depicting Christian idolatry. In one picture, the Christian god was riding a donkey as a child.

The mother was also on the donkey, while the father walked. In the second picture, the father god, with a long beard, was stood on the left side and the son god was stood on the right side wearing a crown, holding hands and making an arch. A dove was seen flying above them. Below, was the holy spirit god in the form of a beautiful lady. In the third picture, seven heavens were arched. At the top, the old god was sitting. Below each heaven sat another god with every day’s creation. In another picture, the unclothed Christ was hanging on the cross.

I think Hindu idolaters are a lot better than trinity idol worshippers. The former have a philosophy behind their idolatry and the latter have only superstitions.

I really liked one of the pictures in that room. It was a picture of an innocent little girl praying with her hands raised and eyes pointing towards the sky. Next to it was a picture of a Christian female preacher lying with her hands tied together in a prison.

That picture made me very uncomfortable and the restlessness of the night was spent in the remembrance of God. I thus repeatedly said, “O God, save me from vanity. [I don’t know] what is yet to come. Alas! I couldn’t even get ahead of this woman [in the prison].

I worry about small things. [O God] forgive me, pardon me, exonerate me and ‫ ت‬listen:

‫اکم ی�را اکم ےہ مہ وہےئ زار و زنار‬

“[‘This task is Thine to do; we have become sorrowful.’]”

Worship of the cross I have observed on many occasions during my travels that wearing or carrying a cross is considered a trivial matter. In fact, Muslims also help in the worship of the cross by imitating Christians. I have shattered this horrible ritual on three occasions and hopefully, this will now lead to improvement: 1. A man came to offer Eid prayer carrying a stick in his hand with a cross sign on it.

I asked his name and he said, “Ma Ma (Muhammad).” I was displeased to see the cross, so I could not control and I myself started the custom of breaking the cross.

Muhammad himself broke it when he saw my hand moving towards it.

2. A girl was wearing a necklace with a cross in it. When I asked the girl’s name, it was Fatima. I expressed displeasure while pointing to the cross and Fatima immediately removed that idol from the necklace.

3. The small flags that were brought to my reception had a symbol of a large cross in them. A boy was holding that [small flag] in his hand to express his joy. I forbade him by pointing towards it and the cross suffered the same fate that is is destined for. […]

Continued next page >>

16

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM << Continued from previous page

Al Fazl, 8 December 1921 Tears rolling down my eyes and determination The next day, I gave a sermon to the jamaat and drew their attention towards giving chanda on a regular basis. Moreover, I instructed Amir Ibrahim (who demanded 10 shillings a year from working people and was displeased with the people who were willing to contribute four shillings a year), to accept whatever money a person could present. This disagreement at least shows that these people will do something slowly but surely, insha-Allah. Furthermore, they will not show inattention towards the expenses of the mission.

Anyway, after the said advice, I had to prepare for the next journey. Unfortunately, Amir Ibrahim, despite his best efforts, could not succeed in acquiring the hammock.

The journey of 11 miles was ahead of us and it was very hot (my current state of health is such that I cannot even travel on foot between Batala and Qadian), but there was no other option save to travel on foot.

Ibrahim had informed his Omahene [king of Gomoha] that his white man would come to meet him on 1 October [1921].

Here [in Africa], the doctors instruct foreigners to walk less or else there is a risk of fever. Keeping all the said circumstances in mind, thinking and praying while sitting in a state of confusion, tears welled up in my eyes and then, putting my trust in Allah the Almighty; I decided that we would walk then.

The hammock came The whole caravan set out on its journey and even the helpless and weak Abdur Rahim gathered his courage and accompanied them. After walking for only two furlongs, the river of sweat flowed, and on the other hand, the river of [God’s] mercy also gushed forth. A young Christian came running and said: “Rev Red, hammock came.”

Hammock is a kind of palanquin but its shape is like this: A cloth hangs in the shape of an arc and is tied to two wooden sticks below. Four men pick up the wooden sticks with which its roof is attached and the rider sits on it and keep moving here and there like a swing.

The hammock was picked up by four young men with great sincerity and affection. I then carried on my journey while riding and sometimes on foot. When the hammock came, I gave a short sermon to the friends in Arabic on the subject of trust [in Allah].

My Fante The ignorance and the initial state of society consists of strange happenings. The jokes about Jatts are very popular in Punjab.

On many occasions, when I observe the situation here and recall some incidents of the early condition, I say, “Oh my Fantes.”

One such incident occurred during the said trip. I was waiting for the caravan when I got out of the hammock and was standing on the side of the road looking at the small goats and chickens in the green bushes, when a voice called out to me, “Asufun,” i.e.

“Maulvi.” Turning to the left, I saw a person

who had just finished urinating and had not even completely covered himself. He called me and first by standing, then by sitting, i.e. by making both the states of urination, asked me by gestures as to how it was permissible to urinate.

“What should I answer him? How do I point out?” These were two questions that were impossible for me to answer. Thus, after saying, “O my Fantes,” I indicated to wait for the Arabic interpreter. When he arrived, the answer to the said issue was given in the best possible way.

National Flag Day celebrated in Kosovo

Bedbugs in Africa Night fell while we were three miles away from the destination. Inٰ every village along ّ ّٰ the way, the cries of ‫ہ‬ ‫لل‬ ‫الحمد‬ ,‫ہ‬ ‫الل‬ ‫سبحان‬ and ّٰ ٰ ‫اللہ اکبر‬, and the loud voices of ‫صل علی محمد‬ announced the arrival of Muslims. A great number of people gathered and listened to short speeches from me and wanted me to stay with them. However, the lack of time and the programme forced me to leave.

Eventually, I was compelled to stay in a village and a charpoy was arranged for me.

A mosquito net was fixed and to avoid the bitter experience of the previous night, I asked them to arrange a mattress as well. It was thus arranged. I happily went to bed.

Less than 15 minutes had elapsed before the vanguard of Africa’s black bedbugs appeared and a war began. I thought I had killed the whole army and so I lay down without fear.

However, I was mistaken and the real army was coming after them, which did not let me sleep all night and it was the second night that Allah the Almighty kept me awake and gave me a chance to remember Him. The third and the fourth day of the tour Since the mail is about to be sent and there is not enough time, I will send the second half of the accounts in the next letter, insha-Allah. As for now, friends should be informed that: 1. I successfully preached to Omahene, i.e. the great king of Gomoha 2. Then, I effectively gave the message of Islam to another king, i.e. Ajmakon 3. 16 people converted to Islam 4. I witnessed the practical manifestation of:

ۡ ۡ ُ َۡ َۡ ‫َو ِاذ ف َرقنا ِبک ُم ال َبح َر‬

[“And remember the time when We divided the sea for you.”]

All praise belongs to Allah Who made it all possible. The rest of the accounts will be sent in the next post, if life permits.

Miscellaneous The class of missionaries has been started and the dar-ul-tabligh [mission house] has been inaugurated in Saltpond. I am personally teaching the Holy Quran, hadith, fiqh [jurisprudence] and the Ahmadiyya beliefs to missionaries in the Arabic language. Some educated Christians have become semi-Muslims, and idolaters and Christians no longer look down on Islam.

[This humble one] needs your prayers.

[From] Abdur Rahim Nayyar (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu in the 1 and 8 December 1921 issue of Al Fazl)

Jinahuddin Saif President Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo

National Flag Day is one of the main festivals in the Republic of Kosovo which is celebrated every year on 28 November in honour of the Declaration of Independence of Albania. This is celebrated wherever Albanians reside. Therefore, this day is also celebrated in Kososvo.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo organises an event every year to celebrate Albania’s independence on 28 November, but last year we were not able to hold it due to Covid-19.

This year, the situation with the pandemic is better, and we were able to organise the event.

On 28 November 2021, at the mission house of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo in Prishtina, a programme was held with

a participation of 45 people, including members of the Jamaat and external guests.

The invited guests were from eight different cities from Kosovo, including Prishtina, Peja, Mitrovica, Podujeva, Gjilan, Shtime, Istog and from North Macedonia as well.

After the Maghrib prayer, the event formally commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran and its Albanian translation, followed by a speech by the president of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo on the topic, “The New World Order of Islam”, in which he presented quotations of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in regards to the establishment of world peace.

After dinner, a short question and answer session was held which was followed

by Isha prayer.

8th Holy Quran and Science Conference, Canada Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

The National Talim department of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Canada organised the 8th Holy Quran and Science Conference on 21 November 2021, as reported by Dr Hameed A Mirza Sahib, Secretary Talim, Jamaat Canada.

Due to Covid-19, the conference was held virtually. It focused on the correlation of recent scientific research with signs given in the Holy Quran. Eminent scholars and scientists shared ideas, thoughts and recent ground-breaking research in fields of medicine, technology and climate.

The conference commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran with its translation, followed by a welcome speech by the conference coordinator, Jamil Ahmad Sahib.

The conference was presided over by Secretary Talim Jamaat Canada, Dr Hameed A Mirza Sahib, who presented a brief history of this initiative.

The event was structured into three sessions. Presenters joined from various parts of the world including Ireland, the UK, Norway, the USA and Canada. Each session comprised of a ten-minute presentation, followed by a 15-minute presentation by the keynote speaker and finally a ten-minute question and answer session with the panel.

22 speakers presented their research, in which they focused on the scientific facts about the universe presented in the Holy Quran, and the correlation of recent scientific research with signs given in the Holy Quran.

At the end, Secretary Talim Jamaat Canada, Dr Hameed A Mirza Sahib thanked everyone for attending, and Amir Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib delivered the closing address and concluded the event with silent prayer.

The conference was live-streamed at the official website of the conference (www. quranandscience.org), resulting in over 3,000 distinct views.

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

17

Single-sex schools in UK triumph in academic performance Ataul Fatir Tahir Al Hakam

New rankings of UK schools by The Sunday Times’ Parent Power show single-sex schools “triumph” over mixed schools in academic performance.

The Times reported that amongst state schools, out of the top 10 leading schools, seven are single-sex, “with boys-only schools edging the girls by four to three.”

The rankings showed that “two further schools are single-sex boys’ schools from 11-16, but with mixed sixth forms. Only sixth-placed Pate’s Grammar School, in Cheltenham, is fully mixed throughout.”

(School league tables: the best UK primary and secondary schools revealed, The Times, 3 December 2021) The case was similar in the independent sector “where five of the top ten are singlesex schools, with girls’ schools triumphing here four to one over the boys. A further three schools admit boys only from 11-16, but have a mixed sixth form.”

The top state secondary school was the boys-only Queen Elizabeth’s School in Barnet.

In terms of the performance measures, it was “based on pre-pandemic examination outcomes from 2017-19, rate schools on the proportions of A-level A*-B grades and the GCSEs at grades A*/A or 9-7, with outcomes for the senior exam double-weighted.”

Professor Alan Smithers, Director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research at the University of Buckingham, said: “The Parent Power three-year tables

give comprehensive data and are the best indicator of actual achievements of the children, when this year grades have been based on teacher assessments, and some schools have been more generous than others.”

Where other factors may play a role, previous studies have shown that in terms of academic performance and other elements like social and emotional benefits, single-sex schools – for both girls and boys – perform better. (www.theguardian.com/australianews/2019/oct/26/co-ed-versus-single-sexschools-its-about-more-than-academicoutcomes) For Muslims in particular, the rankings go to show the importance of adhering to Islamic teachings; in this case, segregation.

Segregation of the sexes doesn’t mean men and women cease to interact – including in educational settings – however, creating environments where boys and girls can work, study and operate independently without the distraction of the opposite sex is crucial. The “distraction” element isn’t just sexual or factors where boys and girls have to “look better” or “impress” each other, though these play a heavy role in modern society.

Girls have said studying in co-ed environments comes with certain social prejudices or a lack of opportunities for girls. (Ibid) Loren Bridge, the Executive Officer at the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australia suggested that teachers may have implicit gender biases – for instance, thinking boys are better at maths, or encourage boys to pursue higher levels of STEM (Science,

Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects than a girl of the same ability. (Ibid) A study from the University of Queensland, Australia showed that girls leaving single-sex schools were on average more confident than those leaving co-ed schools. (https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/ view/UQ:dcee289) Loren Bridge noted that in a girl’s school, “There’s not the social pressure to be quiet in class. The conversation becomes about learning, not being liked. (www. theguardian.com/australia-news/2019/ oct/26/co-ed-versus-single-sex-schools-itsabout-more-than-academic-outcomes) “They’re not putting on make-up to go to school. Their school time is about learning and having that confidence. It ends in a better life outcome.”

In this context, the top rankings of UK schools are a stark reminder to both sexes that their focus on studies – and performing well in them – could be better in single-sex environments.

Modern pressures for both sexes – intensified through social media – have led to students focusing on “looking good” and being “liked” over what their focus needs to

be at school: education.

The Times also noted that the new rankings “come after a year in which singlesex education has come under scrutiny, with boys’ schools in particular in the line of fire after the publication of thousands of testimonies from girls and young women on the Everyone’s Invited website, which alleged sexual assault or misbehaviour from boys and identified the schools the boys attend.

“While more than 2,000 schools have been named on the website, a number of boys-only institutions or those that are single-sex until sixth form were among those most heavily cited.”

Where boys (and girls) can perform better in single-sex settings for educational performance, the moral and cultural education of how to treat the opposite sex is missing. This is where Islam can help.

Food donations to homeless shelters by Ansarullah Scotland Arshad Mehmood Khan Glasgow

To celebrate Ashra Isaar (ten days for humanitarian services) Majlis Ansarullah Scotland organised various food donations across Scotland.

Our region is serving humanity in various capacities on a regular basis, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic started.

When these events were shared on social media, the charities involved retweeted widely and thanked Majlis Ansarullah Scotland for the donations and serving the homeless. Thus, the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat spread through these charities and homeless shelters.

On 18 November 2021, Majlis Ansarullah Glasgow made food donations

to the charity “Help The Homeless Glasgow”.

The food included hot lentil curry with rice and tea and coffee on a chilly cold evening.

On the same day, Majlis Ansarullah Edinburgh donated food items to Dunfermline Foodbank in Inverkeithing, which included toiletries, tin food, cereals and snacks.

On 25 November 2021, 40 dinner packs of chicken pasta were donated to the charity Help The Homeless Glasgow.

On the same day, food was donated to another charity, ANYISO Glasgow, which included tin food, ready meals, pasta, cereals, crisps, and long-life milk.

On 30 November 2021, on behalf of Isaar department Majlis Ansarullah UK, food was donated to Glasgow Northwest Foodbank, which included tin food, pasta, jams, cereals, biscuits, crisps and chickpeas.

18

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

Response to misinformation and prejudice against Islam, 1921

Title page of the issue in which the reference given by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra appears

A Waraich Al Hakam A cutting from the 8 October 1921 issue of Plain English magazine was presented in the previous issue of Al Hakam, which was mentioned by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra, with respect to the opposition of Islam Ahmadiyyat in foreign countries. Below is the complete transcript of the said article: “Islam in Hyde Park “To the Editor of Plain English “Sir, – As your paper appears to be one not afraid to speak the truth, will you allow me to use your letter column to air what seems to me an openly encouraged abuse and menace to Christian morality, and a disgrace to any Christian government under which it is permitted.

“I allude to the fact that the prophets

[missionaries] of Islam and Ahmad are allowed to preach in the Hyde Park forum (alongside Christian speakers), and lead astray any members of the community who are feather-brained enough to listen to them. I have heard statements made from this pulpit denying the supreme divinity of Christ; representing Christianity as the cause of the dark ages in Europe, which according to these people were lightened

by Greek learning. A statement which most Christians would dispute, and which, in any case, is no credit to the Muslim who has consistently done his best to crush the Greeks from the earliest times. Not only since the coming of Mohammed but before, the Greeks were for ages harried by the coloured peoples, in the Assyrian and Persian invasions.

“If there is a similarity between some

of the finest Greek teachings and those of Christ, the Greeks are a western race, and the kudos is due to the West, not Mohammed and the East, which more than any other causes were the reason of Europe’s dark ages – in that she had to fight war after war against coloured oppression and invasions. All throughout Spain and Middle Europe the iron heel of these gentle Moslems was set on our necks and only shaken off by the sword and the Red Cross, even France and western Germany and Britain being sometimes threatened.

Europe had no time to devote herself to the gentle arts, which only could be and were kept alive in the monasteries, in times when every active man in the outside world had perforce to be a soldier to guard his race and religion from the coloured soilure. And these people are allowed to come here preaching a religion false for

the west, whatever it may be for the east, a religion which encourages polygamy and other evils contrary to Christ’s teaching, and foreign to the western rule ‘that woman should be equal with man and have one man for her own, not share him with others.’

“I say, sir, this is a disgrace to the country and government that permits it (presumably to keep the Indian races contented). There seems to be a class of foolish women and even men in this country for whom a coloured skin has a mysterious (and to an Australasian and one who has seen Eastern cities) an unaccountable glamour. These are just the type of people to be led away by this false teaching now being given out in the customary mealy-mouthed Oriental manner. A teaching, not of Christ, but of hell, as far as we are concerned.

“It is a true saying that ‘East is East and West is West, etc.’ When the two mix on earth there is never anything but evil results, as past history has proved, and is being proved now. What are our Christian divines doing that they do not take this matter up with those responsible for permitting it? It is an offence and an insult to every Christian and white man who passes, to say nothing of women! As one who knows what the Eastern teaching means, I request you, sir, to allow me the medium of your paper for straight words on this subject.

“Yours sincerely, Eustace BFS Collin. 1 Park Road, Regents Park. September 30th, 1921.”

Responding to the above article on 26 November 1921, in a later issue of the same magazine, Plain English, an Ahmadi not only provided factual information to readers but also presented the true teaching of Islam that there is no compulsion in religion. The transcript of the said response is as follows: “Islam in Hyde Park “To the Editor of Plain English “Sir, – I have read with interest a letter published in your columns of October 8th, [1921], from Eustace BFS Collin concerning our [Ahmadiyya] movement, and would be glad if you would afford me the space to reply to same.

“It is plain that your correspondent bears no love for Islam, indeed his misplaced indignation is clearly shown by the tone of his letter. It is also plain that he knows little or nothing about our religion or its history.

“Why should the people listening to us be ‘feather-brained?’ At any rate, they learn what Islam stands for. Again, we should be pleased to meet some of that class of person ‘for whom a coloured skin has a mysterious

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021

Opinion

19

Is Islam out of touch with the modern world?

Amatul Hayyi Sossan Ahmad UK

Let us, for a moment, put religion to one side and consider our modern world without it.

Has modernism and secularism worked?

Has it stopped the corruption, immoral and unethical behaviour of modern society?

Has it prevented social injustices? Has it protected the poor?

The single most important malady of the world today is the absence of peace.

Humans may have reached a high standard of achievement in material progress due to science and technology. Nevertheless, they are not happy and content. Man is in search of peace. (Islam’s Response to Contemporary Issues, pp. 3-4) The word “Islam” has a meaning which literally means “peace”. In this single word, all Islamic teachings and attitudes are reflected. Its teachings guarantee peace in every sphere of human interest and aspiration. (Ibid, p. 4) It is only religion that claims to be perfect and universal and capable of uniting humans – whatever colour, race or geographic denomination, as all are creatures of the same Creator.

It is essential to realise that the Holy Quran is a book of principles, not of tales and parables. It teaches appropriateness and enjoins actions according to the needs of

and an unaccountable glamour.’

“Yes, we deny the divinity of Christ, but then we do not stand alone in that respect.

At the same time that we were celebrating our Feast of Sacrifice this year, a learned Christian cleric was also denying that very doctrine from the pulpit in St. Paul’s.

“As regards your correspondent’s remarks on the Moslem warfare in Europe, I can only ask him to read a good volume of the history of the times.

“His suggestion that the government ‘permits our lectures to keep the Indian races contented,’ is ludicrous in the extreme. As if our little meeting in Hyde Park once or twice a week could have any effect on India!

“He should read the Holy Koran before pronouncing our teaching to be ‘of Hell.’

In that book he would read that ‘there is no compulsion in religion, surely the right way has been made manifest from error.’

“To conclude, we are here to explain Islam, which (and Mr. Collin’s letter is but another proof) has been so grossly misrepresented all through the ages; we make no attempts at personal proselytising, but should anyone feel sincerely convinced that Islam is the true religion, we are, of course, glad to receive him.

“Yours very truly, Omar Ali. Ahmadia Mosque, 63 Melrose Road, Southfields, SW 18.”

time and place, a balanced course of action, which conforms to human nature. It enjoins the universal law that one should do what is ma‘ruf and avoid munkar. We are taught to consider what constitutes true piety on any given occasion. (Four Questions by Mr Sirajuddin, a Christian, and their Answers, p. 42).

Consider this teaching presented by the Holy Prophet of Islam, peace and blessings of Allah be on him, and Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the awaited Latter-Day reformer and Messiah for all religions who

came to revive Islam’s teachings: “Utter no falsehood, invent no lies, and cause no hurt to anyone, whether by your tongue or your hands [...] It should be your principle to have sympathy for all human beings.” (Essence of Islam, Vol. 1, Introduction, p. xxxiii) This is Islam in a nutshell. Is this not applicable or useful?

Islam teaches that in all circumstances, no matter how challenging, you must remain firmly attached to the principles of justice and integrity and never be motivated by a

desire for vengeance. (Islam and Europe – A Clash of Civilisations, an address delivered

by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, at the Adlon Kempinski Hotel in Berlin on 22 October 2019) This is the message of Islam. Does this teaching need to be abolished or updated?

Imagine a world where every individual was to fulfil the rights of each other. Could it be that Islam has given the pathway to world peace? Indeed, it has. Islam has brought the antidote to bitter divisions and injustices in the world. It was the Holy Prophetsa of Islam who formed a covenant of peace, a charter of human rights 1400 years ago for all communities, many rights the world only recently recognised. (Islamic Principles on Education and Serving Humanity, an address delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at UNESCO in Paris, on 8 October 2019) The state of this so-called modern world proves that the world is in need of something. If there was any other viable solution or perfect principle for world peace, then where is it?

Indeed, Islam has created a “vaccine”, an antidote to bitter divisions and injustices in the world. It is still available, effective and safe. Millions have been healed.

The allegation that Islamic teachings are not useful and applicable now is an allegation without any proof. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community invites all to investigate and judge.

20

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 12 November 2021 Men of Excellence: Hazrat Umarra ibn al-Khattab After reciting the tashahud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

Accounts from the life of Hazrat Umarra were being narrated in the previous sermons and I will continue to do so today as well.

Mentioning Hazrat Umar’sra detachment of worldly things and his piety, Hazrat Hafsah bint Umarra relates that she once said to her respected father, “O Leader of the Faithful”.

In another narration, it is mentioned that she addressed him in the following manner, “O my father! Allah has increased your provisions, granted you victories and has also given you wealth in abundance. Why then do you not choose to eat food which is softer than the food you eat and why do you not wear garments made of a softer material than the ones you wear?”

Hazrat Umarra replied, “I will ask you to make the decision in this regard. Do you not remember how many hardships the Holy Prophetsa had to endure during his life?”

The narrator says that he continuously reminded Hazrat Hafsahra of this so much that Hazrat Hafsahra began to cry. Following this, Hazrat Umarra stated, “By Allah!

As long as I have the strength to do so, I will continue to partake of the hardships endured by the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra, so that perhaps, through this I may be able to join them in their life of comfort [in the Hereafter].”

In another narration, it is also mentioned that Hazrat Umarra said to Hazrat Hafsahra, “O Hafsah, daughter of Umar! You have sought the welfare of your nation, but have not sought the welfare of your father. You have advised me to do such and such as I would be able to serve my nation better by doing so. However, this does not concern my welfare.” Following this, Hazrat Umarra

stated, “My family has a right only over my life and my wealth, but they do not have any right over my faith and what I have been entrusted with.” (Ibn Saad, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 3, Dhikr Hijrat Umarra bin al-Khattab [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, 1996], p. 148)

In other words, they did not have the right to say anything to him in relation to what had been entrusted to him and how he would fulfil that responsibility and they did not have any right to say anything to him in this regard.

Hazrat Ikrimahra bin Khalid relates that Hazrat Hafsahra, Hazrat Abdullahra and some other individuals were speaking to Hazrat Umarra and said, “If you eat better food, you will be stronger whilst serving for the cause of the truth.” Hazrat Umarra replied, “Do all of you hold the same opinion?” They all replied in the affirmative. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra replied, “I have understood that

you seek my welfare, but I left both of my friends, i.e. the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra on this very path and if I do not adopt the same path as them, I will not be able to meet them at the final destination.”

(Jalaluddin Abd al-Rahman bin Abi Bakr al-Suyuti, Tarikh al-Khulafa, p. 101, Umarra bin al-Khattab, Lebanon, 1999)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra says: “The era of the Holy Prophetsa was an era in which they faced fear and danger and we can learn lessons from the commandments he gave the Muslims at that time. It was his own practice and he had also advised others not to prepare more than one dish for food.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was mentioning this in one of his sermons in relation to Tahrik-e-Jadid. Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra further states: “The guidance of the Holy Prophetsa was not to make more than one dish and

he emphasised this to such a degree that some companions took a very strict course of action in this regard.

“On one occasion, vinegar and salt were placed before Hazrat Umarra and he enquired as to why two dishes had been presented since the Holy Prophetsa had instructed that there should be only one dish.

The people mentioned to Hazrat Umarra that these were not two separate dishes; in fact, the salt and vinegar combined to form one dish; however, Hazrat Umarra did not accept this and stated that they were, in fact, two separate dishes.

Though Hazrat Umarra was overly strict in this act of his owing to his love for the Holy Prophetsa, this perhaps was not what the Holy Prophetsa meant, but nevertheless, this incident shows how much emphasis he placed on this in view of the fact that the Muslims needed to adopt simplicity.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra further states: “I do not make the same kind of demand from you as Hazrat Umarra did and I do not state that salt is to be counted as a separate dish from vinegar. However, I do ask of you that for the next three years from today – during the course of which I shall make a yearly announcement, so that if the situation of fear transforms then this instruction shall also change, [and the instruction is] – every Ahmadi who wishes to partake in this battle with us should pledge to only eat one dish.

That is, roti and broth or rice and broth.

These do not count as two separate dishes; rather, they both combine to form one dish.

However, it is not permitted for one to prepare two broths to eat with their roti or rice.” (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 15, p. 426) This was during the time when the

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021 Tahrik-e-Jadid scheme was announced.

At the time, the Jamaat was in need [of resources] and so it was announced that one ought to reduce their expenses and donate them towards their chanda. Now, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, the conditions have changed and therefore this restriction is no longer required, but even then one should not indulge in extravagances.

Whilst expounding upon the verse:

َ َ ٰ ۡ َ َ َ ْ ُ ُ ۡ َ ۡ َ َ ْ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ َّ َ ‫ان بَي َن ذل ِك قوَ ًاما‬ ‫وال ِذين ِإذٓا أنفقوا لم يس ِرفوا ولم يقتروا وك‬

[“And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor niggardly but adopt a moderate position in the middle.” (Ch.25: V.68)], Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “Allah the Almighty states that if one wants to become a servant of Allah, then it is necessary for them to consider two factors when spending their wealth. Firstly, one should not indulge in extravagances. Eating food is not for the sole purpose of luxury and delight; rather, it is to attain strength, power and enable the body to continue functioning. Likewise, when one wears clothes, it is not to show others; rather, it is to cover one’s body and in order to preserve one’s dignity which Allah the Almighty has granted to humankind. The example of the companions demonstrates that this is exactly what they practised.

“Once, Hazrat Umarra travelled to Syria and the companions there were wearing silk clothes. By ‘silk clothes’ are meant garments which had some silk in them because to wear a garment made purely from silk is forbidden unless one is exempt due to an illness. Hazrat Umarra instructed his companions to throw sand at them, in other words he was extremely displeased. He then stated, ‘Have you become so accustomed to luxuries that you have started wearing silk clothes?’ Upon this, one of the companions took off his upper garment and showed that he was wearing another heavy garment beneath it which was made of thick wool.

He then stated to Hazrat Umarra, ‘We have not worn these silk clothes because we like them; rather, it is a custom among the people of this country. Right from their childhood, these people are accustomed to seeing their leaders living in a very grandiose and spectacular manner.

“Thus, in view of the political traditions of the country we have also worn such clothes, but we have not come under their influence in any way. Thus, the practice of the companions shows what is meant by overindulgence. It means that one should not spend their wealth on such things which they are not in need of and it’s merely done as a form of luxury and lavishness.

“Hence, God Almighty states that the true servants of Allah are those who do not waste their wealth, nor spend it ostentatiously; rather, they spend it on that which is helpful and beneficial.

“Secondly, one should not hold back from spending their wealth where it is deemed necessary to spend one’s wealth, in other words, where one can be of benefit if they spend their wealth. Thus, one should not spend their wealth in a manner which is contrary to the will of Allah the Almighty and secondly, one should not abstain from spending their wealth whereby they are not even fulfilling their rightful dues.

“These are two conditions in relation to spending one’s wealth in order to become a true servant of Allah. However, there are many people who either spend excessively

or then they are extremely miserly.” (Khutbate-Mahmud, Vol. 5, pp. 3, 4)

Hazrat Umarra was so against lavish and extravagant clothes that he did not even like it if an enemy who had been captured was brought before him in such clothing.

This has been mentioned in detail in the incident relating to the Persian commander, Hormuzan. Though I have previously explained this incident, I shall mention some details from it in order to explain.

When Tustar was conquered, Hormuzan, who was the commander-in-chief of the Persian forces, surrendered himself over to the Muslims. He was then sent to Hazrat Umarra in Medina. However, before entering Medina, the Muslims who were taking him put his silk garments on him so that Hazrat Umarra and the Muslims could see him in his true state. When Hormuzan appeared before Hazrat Umarra, he enquired whether this was Hormuzan. The people replied in the affirmative. Following this, Hazrat Umarra carefully observed him and his garments and then stated, “I seek refuge in Allah the Almighty from the fire and I seek help from Allah the Almighty.”

The people who brought him mentioned that this was Hormuzan and that Hazrat Umarra should speak to him. However, Hazrat Umarra stated that he would certainly not speak to him until he removed his lavish and extravagant garments and his jewellery.

When all of this was removed, then Hazrat Umarra spoke to him. (Sirat Amir-il-Mu‘minin Umarra bin al-Khattab, Al-Salabi, pp. 424-425, Dar alMa‘rifah, Beirut, Lebanon, 2007)

Hazrat Umar’sra level of humility and righteousness can be gauged from the following incident: Hazrat Urwahra bin Zubair narrates that he saw Umarra bin al-Khattab carrying a waterskin on his shoulder. Upon this, he submitted, “O Leader of the Faithful!

This does not behove you.” Hazrat Umarra stated, “When the various delegations from different countries arrived whilst demonstrating their utmost obedience, a sense of self-importance developed in my heart. Thus, in order to remove this feeling from me, I decided to carry this waterskin.”

(Sirat Umarra bin al-Khattab, Muhammad al-Salabi, p. 122, Dar al-Ma‘rifah, Beirut, Lebanon, 2007) Hazrat Yahyara bin Abdi Al-Rahman bin Hatib relates from his father that they were once returning from Mecca in the company of Hazrat Umarra and upon reaching the valleys of Dhajnan, they stopped. Dhajnan is the name of a place which is situated about 25 miles from Mecca. He further narrates that Hazrat Umarra then stated, “Upon seeing this place I can still recall the time when I would tend to the camels of my father, Khattab. He was a man of a very stern disposition. I would take the camels laden with sticks and thereafter I would take them with grass placed upon them. However, today my condition is such that people travel far and wide in my land and there is no one above me.”

In other words, I am a ruler of a vast and expansive land in which people travel a great distance and come and meet me and also there is no other ruler in this world who rules over me. He then recited the following couplet: َ َ ُ َ َ َّ َ َ ‫لا ش ْي َء ِف ْيما ت َرى ِإلا بَشاش َته‬ َ َُ َ ْ َ ُ ْ ْ َ ‫ي َ ْبقى ال ِإل ُه َوي ُ ْودِي ال ِمال والولد‬ “Whatever you can see has no reality to

21 it apart from being a temporary source of joy. One’s wealth and progeny will come to an end and it is only God Who lives forever.”

(Ibn Saad, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 3, Umarra bin al-Khattab [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 1990], p. 202) (Fath al-Bari, Vol. 2, p. 144, Qadimi Kutun Khana, Aram Bagh, Karachi) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira states in relation to this that once, Hazrat Umarra was returning from Hajj and he stopped under a tree. Huzayfa, who had a very informal relationship with Hazrat Umarra took courage and enquired as to why Hazrat Umarra had stopped there. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra stated, “There was a time when I would tend to a camel of mine and once my father scolded me under this tree. Today, my condition is such that let alone camels, hundreds of thousands of people are ready to sacrifice their lives if I was to merely hint at them.” (Haqa‘iq-ul-Furqan, Vol. 3, p. 326) In relation to this, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra states: “Is it not an astonishing fact that a person who would once herd camels became a great king? Not only was he granted a worldly kingdom, but a spiritual one too.

This indeed was Hazrat Umarra who would tend to the camels in his earlier years. On one occasion, he went to perform the Hajj and on the way, he stood at a particular place. The heat was extremely intense and people were greatly affected by it. However, no one had the courage to ask why he was standing there. Eventually, a companion, who was a close friend of Hazrat Umarra and who would often ask Hazrat Umarra about the outbreak of fitna [evil and disorder] was approached by the people to ask Hazrat Umarra as to why he was stood at that particular place. Subsequently, he submitted to Hazrat Umarra, ‘Proceed ahead, why have you stopped here?’ Upon this, Hazrat Umarra stated, ‘The reason why I have stopped here is because once I was herding the camels and took some rest under this tree owing to exhaustion. My father came and hit me, saying, ‘Did I send you so you could sit here and sleep?’ Thus, such was my condition, but after having accepted the Holy Prophetsa, God Almighty elevated me to such a rank that if today I were to command hundreds of thousands of people they would be willing to sacrifice their lives for me.’ This incident and various other incidents like this reveal the previous condition of the companions, but after following the Holy Prophetsa, their conditions completely transformed. They attained such a rank and level of knowledge which no one else possessed.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra further states: “The reason I have narrated this account is that one ought to ponder how a person who used to herd camels was granted such spiritual and worldly knowledge that no one else could fathom. One should ponder that on the one hand, there was a time when Hazrat Umarra would tend to camels and sheep which is something that is perceived to not even remotely be associated with knowledge, and then, on the other hand, came a time where the people of Europe, who have a deep understanding of the laws and principals of governance, show great admiration of the laws and legislation designed by Hazrat Umarra. What connection is there between one who tends to camels and a ruler? However, Hazrat Umarra accomplished such feats that the

world looks at him with great respect and praises his governance.

“Moreover, look at the example of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, who was an ordinary merchant; however, today, the world is astonished as to how he attained such wisdom, intellect and knowledge. However, I tell you that he attained everything from the Holy Quran.

He pondered over the Holy Quran, thus he learned all that which the entire world was bereft of. This is because the Holy Quran is such a tool that if one cleanses their heart with it, their heart will be so purified that it begins to reflect every aspect of secular knowledge and a door is opened for such an individual that no one is then able to stop the knowledge that is revealed upon one’s heart.

Thus, it is important for every individual to strive in reading and pondering over the Holy Quran.” (Anwar-ul-Khilafah, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 3, pp. 130-131)

With regard to Hazrat Umar’sra humility and humbleness, there is a narration from Jubair bin Nufair who states that a group of people said to Hazrat Umarra, “O Leader of the Faithful! By Allah, we have not seen anyone more just and truthful, and firm against the hypocrites than yourself. Indeed, after the Holy Prophetsa, you are the best among us.” Auf bin Malik said to the person who said this, “By Allah, you have lied.

Verily we have seen the best person among us after the Holy Prophetsa”, i.e. the one better than Hazrat Umarra.

Hazrat Umarra asked, “O Auf! Who is that person?” to which he replied, “Abu Bakrra”. Hazrat Umarra then said that Auf has spoken the truth and about the person who said the earlier statement that he had lied. He then said, “By Allah! Abu Bakrra was even purer than the scent of musk and I am even more lost than the camels belonging to my people.” (Kanz al-Ummal, Vol. 6, Kitab Fada‘il al-Sahabah, Riwayah No. 5624, Dar al-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “In the ahadith it is mentioned that on one occasion, Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Abu Bakrra had a disagreement about something which intensified. Hazrat Umarra had a rather impassioned nature and for this reason, Hazrat Abu Bakrra thought it wise to leave the place, lest the matter worsened.

When Hazrat Abu Bakrra tried to leave, Hazrat Umarra stepped forward and held on to his cloak, demanding an answer from him. When Hazrat Abu Bakrra managed to release himself, his cloak ripped. Hazrat Abu Bakrra left from there and went home.

However, Hazrat Umarra suspected that perhaps Hazrat Abu Bakrra would complain about him to the Holy Prophetsa, and so he followed him, so that he could present his viewpoint.

“Along the way, Hazrat Umarra lost sighting of Hazrat Abu Bakrra. Hazrat Umarra thought that Hazrat Abu Bakrra went to the Holy Prophetsa to complain about him and so he went straight to the Holy Prophetsa. But when Hazrat Umarra went to the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Abu Bakrra was not present. However, since Hazrat Umarra regretted what he had done, he submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! I have committed an error and I treated Abu Bakrra harshly.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra is not to blame, it is all my fault.’

“When Hazrat Umarra went to see the Holy Prophetsa, someone informed Hazrat Abu Bakrra that Hazrat Umarra went to

22 complain to the Holy Prophetsa about him.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra thought to himself that he should also go and clear the matter, lest only one side of the case was presented; therefore he decided to go and present his side of the story as well.

“When Hazrat Abu Bakrra reached the gathering, Hazrat Umarra was saying, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! I have made a mistake, I quarrelled with Hazrat Abu Bakrra and ripped his cloak.’

“When the Holy Prophetsa heard this, anger could be seen in his expression and he said, ‘O people! What is the matter with you! When the entire world rejected me and opposed me, including all of you, at that time it was only Abu Bakr who accepted me and helped me in every way.’ He then said in a sorrowful tone, ‘Will you not let Abu Bakr and I be even now?’ The Holy Prophetsa was saying these words when Hazrat Abu Bakrra entered.”

“This [i.e. what occurred thereafter] is the example of true love; instead of saying that it was not his fault and was all Umarra’s fault; when Abu Bakrra entered and saw that the Holy Prophetsa was displeased, as his true lover, he could not bear to see the Holy Prophetsa in pain because of him; for this reason, as soon as Abu Bakrra came, he sat down on his knees before the Holy Prophetsa and submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! It is not Umar’s fault, but it is my fault.’” (Khutbate-Mahmud, Vol. 27, pp. 313-314)

Hazrat Umarra narrates that he once asked the people about the blood money in the case of an abortion. Mughira stated that the Holy Prophetsa had said one should free a male or female slave as blood money.

Hazrat Umarra then said to bring someone who would corroborate this matter he had just mentioned. Muhammad bin Maslamah confirmed that he was in the presence of the Holy Prophetsa and that indeed is what had been said by the Holy Prophetsa. (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al-Diyat, Bab Junain al-Mar‘ah, Riwayat No. 6905-6906)

That is, if one is guilty of oppression or cruelty which leads to a miscarriage or if one forces a woman to have an abortion, then that person must give blood money.

Whosoever has committed this injustice has to pay the blood money which is to free a male or female slave.

Hazrat Abu Saeedra narrates, “Abu Musa Ash‘ari came to visit Hazrat Umarra and sought permission saying, ‘Peace be upon you! Do I have permission to enter?’ Hazrat Umarra thought to himself that he has only asked permission once. After remaining silent for a short while, Abu Musa again said, ‘Peace be upon you! Do I have permission to enter?’ Hazrat Umarra replied to his greeting in his heart and then thought to himself that he has only sought permission twice.

“After waiting for a little while again, Abu Musa Ash‘arira sought permission again saying, ‘Peace be upon you! Do I have permission to enter?’ After having sought permission three times from Hazrat Umarra, Abu Musa Ash‘arira then left.”

When he sought permission to enter three times and did not hear a reply from Hazrat Umarra, he decided to leave.

“Hazrat Umarra asked the doorkeeper, ‘What did Abu Musa do?’ He replied that he had left. Hazrat Umarra said for Abu Musara to be brought before him. When he came before Hazrat Umarra, he asked him, ‘What did you do?’ He replied, ‘I have acted in

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM accordance with the sunnah.’ Hazrat Umarra replied, ‘sunnah? By Allah, you will have to prove that this is an act of sunnah, otherwise I will deal with you severely.’”

Abu Saeed Khudrira further narrates, “Abu Musara then came to us. At the time, we were sat with a group of Ansar. Abu Musa Ash‘arira stated, ‘O Ansar! Is there anyone who would know the sayings of the Holy Prophetsa more than you! Did the Holy Prophetsa not say: ٌ َ​َ ُ َ ْ ْ ْ ‫ان ثلاث‬ ‫ال ِإس ِتئذ‬ i.e. one can seek permission [up to] three times. If one is granted permission they may enter the house, and if they are not given permission then they should return.’

Upon hearing this, the people mocked and laughed.”

Abu Saeed Khudrira further narrates, “I raised my head towards Abu Musa Ash‘arira and said, ‘Whatever punishment you receive for this, I will have an equal share of it. I bear witness that you spoke the truth.’”

The narrator says that Abu Saeedra then went to Hazrat Umarra and informed him of the saying of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Umarra said, “Very well! I was unaware of this hadith, but now I have come to know of it.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Isti‘dhan, Bab ma Ja‘a fi al-Isti‘dhan Thalathah, Hadith 2690)

There is a narration of Sahih Muslim in which Hazrat Abu Hurairahra states: “We were sitting in the company of the Holy Prophetsa along with Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra as well as others.

The Holy Prophetsa got up and left, but there was a delay in him returning. We feared that he may be in danger, and owing to this we stood up and left. I was the first to fear this and so I left in search of the Holy Prophetsa. I arrived at a garden that belonged to the Banu Najjar. I circled the garden looking for the entrance, but was unable to find it. I then saw a stream flowing inside the garden from a well outside and so I crouched down like a fox and entered the garden through the stream and went to the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa enquired, ‘Is it Abu Hurairah?’ I replied in the affirmative. He asked what the matter was to which I replied, ‘You were among us, after which you stood up and left, but there was a delay in you returning. We feared you may be harmed. I was the first to worry and so I followed you up to this garden; I had to crouch like a fox to enter into the garden and the others are following behind me.’

The Holy Prophetsa addressed me saying, ‘O Abu Hurairah’ and gave me his sandals and said, ‘Take my sandals and inform whoever you meet outside this garden, that if they testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and truly have this belief in their hearts, then give them glad tidings of Paradise.’”

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra further narrates, “When I went back, the first person I met was Umarra. He asked, ‘O Abu Hurairahra!

What are these sandals?’ I said that the sandals belonged to the Holy Prophetsa and he has sent me with these as a sign to give glad tidings of Paradise to the one who testifies that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and truly holds this belief in their hearts. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra struck my chest in anger with great force and I fell on my back. He said, ‘O Abu Hurairahra! Go back.’” Meaning, there was no need to say anything to anyone.

“I returned to the Holy Prophetsa and

was about to cry when Hazrat Umarra came behind me. The Holy Prophetsa asked, ‘O Abu Hurairah! What is the matter?’ I informed him that, ‘I met with Umarra and told him about the message you had sent me with, but Umarra struck me on my chest with such force that I fell backwards and Umarra told me to return.’ The Holy Prophetsa asked, ‘O Umar! Why did you do such a thing?’ Hazrat Umarra replied, ‘O Messengersa of Allah!

May my mother and father be sacrificed for you! Did you send Abu Hurairah with your sandals and tell him to give glad tidings of Paradise to the one who testifies that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and has firm belief in this?’ The Holy Prophetsa replied in the affirmative. Upon this, Hazrat Umarra submitted, ‘Please do not do such a thing, for I fear that people will rely on this alone. Therefore, it would be best to let them carry on performing virtuous deeds and acting on the commandments so that they become true believers. Otherwise they will rely upon the declaration of “There is none worthy of worship except Allah” and consider it to be sufficient in order to enter Paradise. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Very well, leave it.’” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Iman, Bab al-Dalil ala in Mata ala al-Tauhid Dakhala al-Jannah Qat‘an, Hadith 147)

Hazrat Umarra thus had a very cautious approach.

There is a narration in which it is mentioned that even Satan runs away from Umarra. In Sahih Bukhari, it is narrated by Hazrat Saadra bin Abi Waqas that Hazrat Umarra bin al-Khattab sought permission from the Holy Prophetsa to enter. At the time some women from the Quraish were sitting in the Holy Prophet’ssa company and speaking to him. They were asking for more expenses and their voices were louder than the Holy Prophet’ssa voice. When Hazrat Umarra sought permission to enter, they quickly put on their veils. The Holy Prophetsa permitted Hazrat Umarra to enter. When Hazrat Umarra entered, the Holy Prophetsa was smiling.

Hazrat Umarra said, “O Messengersa of Allah, may Allah always keep you smiling.”

The Holy Prophetsa replied, “I am astonished by the women that were just here. When they heard your voice, they quickly put on their veils.” Upon this, Hazrat Umarra submitted, “O Messengersa of Allah, you, however, are more worthy of being feared”. Then, while addressing those women in a loud voice, Hazrat Umarra stated, “O enemies of your own selves, are you intimidated by me and not the Holy Prophetsa?” The women replied, “Indeed, because you are harsher and sterner than the Messengersa of Allah.”

Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, “Hear me, O son of al-Khattab; I swear by the One in Whose hands is my life, whenever Satan crosses paths with you, he most certainly diverts his path [in fear of you].” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab Fada‘il Ashab al-Nabisa, Bab Fada‘il Hazrat Umarra, Hadith 3683)

Hazrat Aishara relates, “Once while the Holy Prophetsa was seated, we heard some commotion and the sounds of children.

The Holy Prophetsa stood up and saw that there was an Abyssinian woman performing a traditional dance while the children had gathered around her. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘O Aisha, come and see.’ I went and started to watch, placing my chin on the shoulder of the Holy Prophetsa. My chin was placed in-between the head and the

shoulder of the Holy Prophetsa. He then asked me, ‘Have you seen enough?’ I said ‘not yet’ because I wanted to see how much he cared about me. When Hazrat Umarra arrived, everyone fled from around that woman.”

Hazrat Aishara continues, “Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘I see that the Satans from among the jinn and man have fled from Umar.’” Hazrat Aishara says that following this, she returned from there.

(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Abwab al-Manaqib, Bab Qauluh anna al-Shaitan la Yakhafu minka ya Umar, Hadith 3691)

Hazrat Buraydahra relates that once when the Holy Prophetsa returned from an expedition, a woman of dark complexion came and asked, “O Messengersa of Allah, I took a vow that if Allah the Almighty brought you back to us in safety, I would sing and beat the drum before you.”

The Holy Prophetsa said, “If you had taken a vow, then you may do so, otherwise you cannot.” Thus, she began to beat the drum. Hazrat Abu Bakrra arrived and she continued to beat the drum. Hazrat Alira arrived and she continued to beat the drum.

Then, Hazrat Uthmanra arrived and she still continued to beat the drum. When Hazrat Umarra arrived, however, she placed the drum beneath her and sat on top of it. The Holy Prophetsa said, “O Umar, even Satan fears you. I was present and seated, yet she was still beating the drum. Abu Bakr came, Ali came, Uthman came, yet she continued to beat the drum. However, O Umar, when you came, she put the drum away.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Abwab al-Manaqib, Bab Qauluh anna alShaitan la Yakhafu minka ya Umar, Hadith 3690)

The Promised Messiahas states: “The Holy Prophetsa told Hazrat Umarra that if Satan crossed paths with him, then he diverted to a different path and feared him.

This proves the fact that Satan fled from Hazrat Umarra like one who is a coward and disgraced.” (Nur al-Haqq, Chapter 1, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, p. 143)

There is a narration regarding the fact that truth and serenity emanated from the tongue and heart of Hazrat Umarra. It is narrated by Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra that the Holy Prophetsa once said, “Allah has caused the truth to flow from the tongue and heart of Umar.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Abwab al-Manaqib, Bab anna Allah Ja‘ala al-Haqq ala Lisani Umar Qalbih, Hadith 3682)

Hazrat Ibn Abbasra relates from his brother, Fazl, who said, “I heard the Holy Prophetsa say, Umar bin al-Khattab accompanies me wherever I please, and I accompany him wherever he pleases. After me, wherever Umar bin Khattab will be, the truth will be with him.’” (Sirat Umarra bin al-Khattab, Ibn al-Juzi, p. 21, al-Matba‘ah al-Misriyyah, al-Azhar)

Hazrat Alira once said, “We used to speak amongst each other about how serenity flows from the tongue and heart of Hazrat Umarra.” (Kanz al-Ummal, Vol. 6, Chapter 12, Kitab al-Fada‘il, Fada‘il ‘Umar, Riwayah No. 35870, Dar alKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2004)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “The Holy Prophetsa once addressed one of his wives and said, ‘Prepare my provisions for a journey.’ She began to make preparations for his travels. He then told Hazrat Aishara to roast some seeds and grains for him. These were the kind of provisions that typically existed in those days. Thus, she began to sift out any dust or dirt from the seeds. Hazrat

AL HAKAM | Friday 10 December 2021 Abu Bakrra came to visit his daughter at home and saw these preparations and asked Hazrat Aishara, ‘What is happening? Is the Holy Prophetsa preparing for a journey?’ She replied, ‘It seems to be so, because the Holy Prophetsa told us to make preparations for travel.’ Hazrat Abu Bakrra enquired if there were plans for a battle, but she replied, ‘I do not know. The Holy Prophetsa just told us to make preparations for travel and that is what we are doing.’ Two to three days later, the Holy Prophetsa called upon Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra and told them that some men from the Khuza‘ah tribe came and related the details of an incident that took place. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘God has informed me of the incident beforehand, that they (i.e the people of Mecca) would commit treason and we have made a covenant with them. It would go against our faith to now become fearful and not prepare for combat after witnessing the bravery and strength of the Meccans.

We will have to go there, so what is your opinion on the matter?’ Hazrat Abu Bakrra submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah, you have entered into a covenant with them and they are your own people.’” In other words, would he fight against his own people?

“The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘We will not fight our people, we will fight those who have violated the covenant.’ The Holy Prophetsa then asked Hazrat Umarra, who submitted, ‘In Allah’s name, I would pray every day that we might see this day when we could fight the disbelievers in defence of the Holy Prophetsa.’

“The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Abu Bakr is very soft-natured, but Umar is more frank in his speech.’ The Holy Prophetsa continued, ‘Make preparations.’ Then, the Holy Prophetsa had an announcement made in the surrounding tribes that everyone who believes in Allah and His Messengersa should congregate in Madinah in the beginning days of Ramadan. Thus, they started to gather to the extent that an army enumerating many thousands of men was organised and they set out for war.” (Sair-eRuhani, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 24, pp. 260-261)

Regarding the excellence of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudrira narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said, “From among the ‘illiyyin’ [the loftiest people], one will gaze at the dwellers of Paradise, and due to his countenance, the whole of Paradise will glow and radiate as though it were a shining star, and Abu Bakr and Umar are among those people – both are such excellent people.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Huruf wa al-Qira‘at, Hadith 3987)

Abu Uthman narrates that the Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Amrra bin alAas as the commander of the army for the battle of Zat al-Salasil. This is a place approximately a days-journey away from Medina. This is according to the mode of travel at that time. It is the name of a well in the region of the tribe of Judham, further out from the valley of al-Qura. Hazrat Amrra states, “When I returned to the Holy Prophetsa, I asked him who is most beloved to him. The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘Aisha.’

I then asked who is the most beloved to him amongst the men. The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘The father of Aisha.’ I then asked who was after him. The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘Umar.’ He then proceeded to name other men.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi, Bab Ghazwat al-Salasil, Hadith 4358) (Sayyid Fadl al-

Rahman, Farhang-e-Sirat [Karachi, Pakistan: Zawwar Academy Publications, 2003], 152)

Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa would come out and sit with his companions from among the Muhajirin and the Ansar. Among them were Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, but none of them would raise their glance to look at the Holy Prophetsa except Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra. Both of them would look at the Holy Prophetsa and smile, and in turn, he would look at the two of them and smile.

(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab fi ma li Abi Bakrra wa Umarra inda al-Nabisa, Hadith 3668)

Hazrat Ibn Umarra relates that the Holy Prophetsa once came out and entered the mosque with Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra. One was to his right side, and the other to his left and he had hold of their hand. He stated, “This is how we shall be raised on the Day of Judgement.” (Sunan alTirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Qaulih li Abi Bakrra wa Umarra: Hakadha Nub’athu Yaum al-Qiyamah, Hadith 3669)

Abdullah bin Hantab relates that the Holy Prophetsa once saw Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra and said, “They are both eyes and ears.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Qaulih fihima hadhani al-Sam wa alBasar, Hadith 3671)

Hazrat Jabir bin Abdillah relates that Hazrat Umarra said to Hazrat Abu Bakrra, “O ye who is the best man after the Messengersa of Allah!” Thereupon, Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied, “If this is what you say, I tell you that I heard the Holy Prophetsa state, ‘The sun has not set upon anyone greater than Umar.’” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Qaulih li Abi Bakrra wa Umarra: Ya Khair al-Nas Ba‘d Rasulsa Allah, Hadith 3684)

Hazrat Ibn Umar narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said, “I am the first person for whom the earth shall be rent asunder, followed by Abu Bakr, then Umar. Then I shall go to the dwellers of Baqi‘ and they shall be raised with me. Then I shall wait for the people of Mecca until I shall be raised between the two holy cities.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Ana Awwal man Tuhshaqu anhu al-Ard…, Hadith 3692)

Hazrat Abdullahra bin Mas‘ud relates that the Holy Prophetsa stated, “One of the dwellers of Paradise is coming to you.”

Hazrat Abu Bakrra then came. The Holy Prophetsa once more said “One of the dwellers of Paradise is coming to you,” after which Hazrat Umarra came. (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Akhbarih ‘an Itla’Rajul min Ahl al-Jannah…, Hadith 3694)

Hazrat Anasra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said with regard to Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, “These two are the chiefs of all the elders of paradise, from among its first and its last people, except for the prophets and messengers.” (Sunan al-

Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Iqtadu bi alladhina min ba’di, Hadith 3664)

Hazrat Huzayfara relates that the Holy Prophetsa said, “After me, follow both Abu Bakr and Umar.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Kitab alManaqib, Bab Iqtadu bi alladhina min ba‘di, Hadith 3662)

Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudrira narrates that the Holy Prophetsa stated, “Every prophet has two viziers in Heaven and two viziers on the earth. My two viziers in Heaven are Gabriel and Michael, and my two viziers on the earth are Abu Bakr and Umar.” (Sunan al-

Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab fa amma Wazirai fi alArd, Hadith 3680)

23 Hazrat Huzayfara relates, “We were sat with the Holy Prophetsa when he said, ‘I do not know for how long I shall remain among you, therefore you must follow these two after me.’ He then indicated towards Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra.” (Sunan alTirmidhi, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab fi Manaqib Abi Bakr wa Umar kilaihima, Hadith 3663) Hazrat Abu Bakrra relates that one day the Holy Prophetsa asked, “Who among you has seen a dream?” One person replied, “I saw that a scale had descended from the sky.

It weighed both yourself and Hazrat Abu Bakrra and you were heavier on the scales than him. Then Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra were weighed, and Hazrat Abu Bakrra was heavier in the scales. Then Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Uthmanra were weighed, and Hazrat Umarra was heavier in the scales. The scale was then taken away.’”

The narrator then says, “We then saw signs of displeasure on the Holy Prophet’ssa countenance.”

In another narration, it is mentioned that after hearing the dream, the Holy Prophetsa said, “This is the Khilafat after prophethood, and thereafter Allah shall grant monarchical rule to whoever He pleases.”

(Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Sunnah, Bab fi alKhulafa, Hadith 2634-2635) (Aun al-Ma‘bud Sharh Sunan Abi Dawud, Vol. 12, pp. 387, 388, Kitab alSunnah, Bab fi al-Khulafa, al-Maktabah al-Salafiyyah, 1969)

Abd Khair relates that Hazrat Alira was standing at the pulpit and said, “O people, shall I not tell you of the best person in this Ummah after the Holy Prophetsa?” the people replied in the affirmative. Hazrat Alira then said, “Abu Bakrra.” He then remained silent for a short while before saying, “O people, shall I not tell you of the best person in this ummah after Hazrat Abu Bakrra? It is Umarra?” (Hulyat al-Auliya, Imam Isfahani, Vol. 7, p.

205, Hadith 10323, Maktabah Iman Mansurah, 2007)

Abu Juhaifah says that he heard Hazrat Alira say, “The best among this ummah after the Holy Prophetsa is Abu Bakrra then Umarra.” (Hulyat al-Auliya, Imam Isfahani, Vol. 7, p.

205, Hadith 10325, Maktabah Iman Mansurah, 2007)

These accounts shall continue in the future, insha-Allah. The accounts from the life of Hazrat Umarra will continue. Now, I shall mention some deceased members, whose funeral prayer I shall lead after the [Friday] prayer.

The first mention is of respected Kamran Ahmad Sahib Shaheed, son of Naseer Ahmad Sahib of Peshawar. On 9 November [2021], opponents opened fire on him in his office and martyred him.

َ ۡ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ر‬ ‫و ِإنٓا ِإلي ِه‬ ‫ِإنا لِل ِه‬

[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]

He was 44 years of age at the time of his martyrdom. He was working as an accountant in a factory owned by an Ahmadi, respected Shafiqur Rahman Sahib.

An armed person entered his office and opened fire, as a result of which he was struck by four bullets and was martyred on the scene.

َ ۡ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ر‬ ‫وإِنٓا إِلي ِه‬ ‫إِنا لِل ِه‬

[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]

The assailant fled after the incident.

Ahmadiyyat was established in the family of the deceased martyr through his father, respected Naseer Ahmad Sahib’s maternal grandfather, Hazrat Nabi Bakhsh

Sahibra, son of Fateh Din Sahib of Bhaini Bangar, which is near Qadian. Hazrat Nabi Bakhsh Sahibra did bai‘at at the blessed hand of the Promised Messiahas in 1902 and entered into the fold of Ahmadiyyat.

A short while ago, the deceased martyr bought a store with his brother and made it into an office. The landlord of the store evicted them on a single day’s notice, only because they were Ahmadi. Thereafter, he renamed the crossing [near it] as “Khatme Nabuwwat Chowk” Then after they purchased another store nearby, opponents rioted and evicted them from that store as well. In October, a large demonstration was held near their house and inflammatory speeches against the Jamaat were made.

They say that they had never seen such a large demonstration before that in that area and severe hatred [against the Jama’at] was spread. For several years, the deceased martyr was the accountant for a private company, but due to opposition, he asked to leave that position. Upon this, the company told him that his standard and integrity were so high that they did not wish to let him go, and that he should continue working for them, even if it was just for a few minutes.

When they learned of his martyrdom, they were deeply affected by it.

The deceased martyr possessed many great qualities. His father says: “Once, he arrived home late, and I asked him why he had returned home so late. He said that there was a lady from the family of an opponent of the Jamaat who needed blood, and so he gave his own blood. He did so because that family was not financially well-off, and had no other options. He stated that they were responsible for their actions we are responsible for ours.”

He would always be at the forefront of serving others. He would be the first one present when it came to rendering any service or duty for the Jamaat, and would take it upon himself to stand guard in the areas where there was a greater threat of danger. Whenever someone would suggest to him that he should migrate, he would say, “If we leave from here, then Ahmadis who have fewer means will be made to face even more hardships”.

He was exemplary in offering chanda and would pay his financial contributions at the earliest possible time. Once, when he was 12 or 13 years of age, he was apprehended and taken into custody by the police for distributing pamphlets about a prayer duel and was released the next day. He [his father] says that he saw a dream two days before his martyrdom, in which an elderly lady was cleaning his house and said that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh was coming.

A little while later, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh arrived and took hold of the deceased martyr’s hand and lovingly said, “We will remain together and you will remain by my side.”

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, he was part of the Wasiyyat scheme. He was tender-hearted and loved by everyone in his area. He was very virtuous, sympathetic to the poor and had a deep love for Khilafat. He is survived by his parents; his father Naseer Ahmad Sahib and his mother, his wife, and three children, aged 13, 11 and eight.

May Allah the Almighty be the Protector and Helper of these children and grant everyone forbearance and patience. May He also grant the deceased with His forgiveness

24

Friday 10 December 2021 | AL HAKAM

and mercy and elevate his station. Pray for his mother as well, who is suffering from cancer; may Allah the Almighty bestow His blessings.

The next mention is of Dr Mirza Nubair Ahmad and his wife Aisha Amber Syed, both of whom passed away due to an accident in Milwaukee, USA. Dr Mirza Nubair Ahmad was 35 years of age.

َ ۡ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِإنا لِل ِہ و ِإنٓا ِإلی ِہ ر‬

[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]

His great-paternal grandfather was Hazrat Deputy Mian Muhammad Sharif Sahibra, who was a companion of the Promised Messiahas. His grandmother was the daughter of Master Abdur Rahman Sahibra. His great-maternal grandfather was also a companion [of the Promised Messiahas]. There were many companions [of the Promised Messiahas] in his family.

He moved to America in 2012; he joined the Wasiyyat scheme at the age of 17. He was serving as a qaid for Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya.

Among the members of the local jamaat, it is said that he was one of the people who offered the most amount towards purchasing a new building for the Milwaukee mosque.

He is survived by his father Mirza Naseer Ahmad Sahib who is currently the secretary umur-e-ama in Islamabad [Pakistan], his mother who is the regional sadr of Lajna in Islamabad [Pakistan], his sister Nadia and two brothers.

His wife Aisha Amber was also with him and passed away. She was the daughter of Syed Sajjad Shah Sahib of Japan, and the sister of our missionary, Syed Ibrahim who is currently serving in Japan. Ahmadiyyat was established in their family through Syed

Abdur Rahim Shah Sahib of Phugla when he did bai‘at at the hand of Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra in 1930.

As I mentioned, Aisha Amber was in an accident along with her husband, and she passed away two days later. She was an active team member of MTA International.

She would do the live Japanese translation of my sermons and then would also do the subtitling in Japanese.

She is survived by her father Syed Sajjad Ahmad, her mother Syeda Durre Sameen Syed, three brothers and a sister.

Her brother, Ibrahem Sahib, who is a missionary in Japan says: “She helped me in many of my Jamaat duties. She helped me in translating Lecture Lahore and Our God into Japanese. Although she had studied pharmacy, I would be astonished at how high her standard of translation was.”

Her elder sister Fatima says: “I happened to come across her diary, and each page was divided into two topics; one would be titled ‘My Worldly Life’ and the other would be titled ‘My Spiritual Life’.

The worldly page was dedicated to her dayto-day activities and worldly endeavours, while the spirituality page was dedicated to matters of spirituality, notes regarding the Jamaat and religious knowledge. She had beautifully written on each page and with great care. She pondered over every world of the Khalifa of the time and acted upon them, and would advise her sister and brothers to do the same in her special way.

She also shared the teachings of Islam with her Japanese friends.”

May Allah the Almighty grant both the deceased with His forgiveness and mercy and elevate their stations.

The next mention is of Chaudhary

“

Naseer Ahmad Sahib, who was serving as the finance secretary in the Karachi Clifton Jamaat. He was the son of Chaudhary Nazeer Ahmad Sahib of Rabwah. He passed away at the age of 69.

َ ۡ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِإنا لِل ِہ و ِإنٓا ِإلی ِہ ر‬

[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]

At the time of his demise, he was leading his wife and brother-in-law in the Fajr prayer, and it was during the prostration in the second rak‘at of the prayer that his heart stopped and he returned to Allah the Almighty. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, he was a musi. The Promised Messiahas has said that passing away whilst praying is an honourable demise. (Izalah-eAuham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 3, p. 524)

The deceased’s father, Chaudhary Nazeer Ahmad Sahib was also able to serve the Jamaat for 25 years after his retirement, serving as the naib nazir zara‘at and wakile-zara‘at. His younger brother, Chaudhary Naeem Ahmad Sahib is the current afsar khazana of the Anjuman. The deceased is survived by his wife Nusrat Naseer Sahiba, and they did not have any children.

He moved to Karachi in 1972 where he worked. He was able to serve the Jamaat in various capacities there and he rendered extraordinary services. May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy.

The next mention is of Sardaran Bibi Sahiba, wife of Chaudhary Nabi Bakhsh Sahib, of Dar al-Rahmat Gharbi Rabwah.

She passed away recently.

َ ۡ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫إِنا لِل ِہ وإِنٓا إِلی ِہ ر‬

[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]

They were originally from Pathankot

District Gurdaspur, and then migrated to Pakistan; first to Sialkot and then to Sindh.

Her parents and the entire family are Shia.

When she converted to Ahmadiyyat along with her family in 1949, her parents said that her husband had become a disbeliever and that she should return [home to them]. (She did not accept Ahmadiyyat with her family rather it was with her husband, the rest of her family did not accept Ahmadiyyat).

They said to her that her husband had become a disbeliever and so she should leave him. Upon this, she replied to her family by saying, “It is now that I have become a true Muslim. With you, I used to offer only the Fajr prayer, whereas now, not only do I offer all five daily prayers, but I also regularly offer Tahajud prayers. Therefore, I will not come back to you.”

Even when she met her parents after 14 years and they were still cold towards her, despite this, their hearts never softened and they never went to meet her. She truly loved the Jamaat and she was devoted to Khilafat.

She tended to the poor, was virtuous and sincere. She was a musia.

She is survived by three sons and four daughters. Her eldest son Dr Abdur Rahim Sahib was able to serve in Sierra Leone for five years under the Nusrat Jahan Scheme.

Her youngest son Abdul Khaliq Nayyar Sahib is a missionary currently serving in Cameroon. He is the missionary-in-charge there as well as the amir. Due to his service in the field, he was unable to attend his mother’s funeral.

May Allah the Almighty grant everyone patience and forbearance, and may He elevate the status of the deceased.

(Original Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International, 3 December 2021, pp. 5-10.

Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Do not feel content if, because you do not take any exercise, you have just enough energy to perform daily tasks by utilising your total efforts. For

instance, if you have to use all your energy to lift something, to move a bed or a cupboard or even support a funeral procession. You are wrong to think that you are all right because you can just about perform those tasks. The fact is that if you feel tired by using all your energy or feel cramps in your back and legs then you are like a car that is being driven at 90mph all the time and it has a maximum speed of 90mph only. It is obvious that such a car will break down in a short period of time. As it is important to keep some reserve power in a car and not use it to its full capacity, it is important that the energy of your body is not used completely and some energy is left in reserve.

(Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh, Steps to Exercise)

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