Al Hakam - 6 January 2023

Prophet Idris: “And We exalted him to a lofty station”

Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7396

Pay special attention to the tarbiyat of your children

Morocco Jamaat’s amila meets Hazrat Khalifatul Masih

On Sunday, 1 January 2023, members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Morocco’s national amila [executive committee] as well as members of the national amila of Lajna Imaillah Morocco were blessed with the opportunity of meeting Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, in a virtual mulaqat [audience].

After conveying salaam, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa led everyone in du‘a (silent prayer), after which the amila members had the opportunity to introduce themselves and the work assigned to them.

First, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa addressed the national president of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Morocco and asked how his tour of Burkina Faso had been. He replied that it had been very successful by the grace of Allah and thanked Huzooraa for sending him there. Huzooraa asked if he had enjoyed it, to which he replied in the affirmative. He also added that he had visited the Masroor Eye Institute and found it to be “a wonderful place.”

“Then you should make one in Morocco”, Huzooraa said with a smile. Sadr Sahib replied, “Insha-Allah, Huzooraa, with your prayers!”

The second person to report was the sadr of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya, who also serves as the national finance secretary. Huzooraa said to him, “A finance secretary should know the total number of the earning members in their jamaat who are liable to pay chanda and the total number of those who participate in financial contributions as well as of those who, on account of their poverty or low income, are unable to pay chanda at all.” Huzooraa added, “Chanda is not a tax, but it is essential for the

purification of the nafs [heart]. That is why Islam has prescribed financial sacrifice.”

Huzooraa then spoke to him about his role as sadr of Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya and instructed him to activate all of the khuddam, including those living far away from the centre, by explaining to them the system of the Jamaat and utilising their services.

“You are in a small jamaat. Your majlis

should be an ideal majlis”, Huzooraa said.

Next to report was the national general secretary, who also serves as the president of the North-West Jamaat. He reported that there were seven majalis in total with Casablanca being the largest one. A president had been assigned to each of them and they sent regular reports.

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

Seeking Allah’s help before making decisions

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra relates that whenever the Holy Prophetsa intended to do something he used to pray: “O Allah, provide for me with what is good and choose for me what is better.” (Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Da‘wat ‘an Rasulillahsa, Hadith 3516)

In His Own Words

“I have mentioned this before as well and it shall be of benefit if I mention this again. I would like to turn your attention to the question of what was the purpose of Allah Almighty in raising Prophets, peace be upon them, and in ultimately sending the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for the guidance of mankind, and in revealing the Holy Quran? Every individual’s actions are motivated by some purpose. To hold that Allah the Exalted had no real purpose in sending down the Holy Quran or sending the Holy Prophet,

Prophets of Allah

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas,

The advent of the Holy Prophetsa and the purpose of the revelation of the Holy Quran

A brief history of the construction of Minarat-ulMasih Qadian

Haji Musa Bigiev, ‘Luther of Islam’ and Al-Ustaz Abdul Aziz visit Qadian

Obey Allah and His chosen one with complete submission: Hazrat Muslehe-Maud’s advice to the Jamaat

<< Continued from previous page

peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is the height of insolence and disrespect. For this, God forbid, would be tantamount to attributing a useless action to Allah the Exalted, although His Being is Pure — Holy is He and Exalted is His Majesty.

“So bear in mind that in revealing the Holy Quran and sending the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, Allah the Exalted has desired to manifest to the world a magnificent sign of mercy. To this effect, Allah the Exalted states:

“‘We have sent thee not but as a mercy for all peoples.’ (Surah al-Anbiya’, Ch.21: V.108)

“Similarly, Allah Almighty states that He sent down the Holy Quran for the following purpose:

“‘It is a guidance for the righteous.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.3)

“These are such grand objectives that they are second to none. It is for this very reason that Allah the Exalted willed for all the individual excellences of the past Prophets, peace be upon them, to culminate in the person of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him; and for all the merits and excellences found in the various scriptures to be encapsulated in the Holy Quran; and for all the qualities

of the past nations to be gathered in this ummah. Hence, God Almighty desires for us to attain these excellences and so one must not forget that just as God wishes to confer upon us these supreme excellences, He has blessed us with faculties in equal degree. For if we had not been given faculties that accorded in strength, we would never have been able to attain these excellences in any way whatsoever. For example, if someone were to invite a company of people, it would be necessary for them to prepare a quantity of food that suffices those invited; and the size of the house must be able to accommodate them as well. Is it possible that someone would invite one thousand people to a feast, and then build a small hut to seat them all? Of course not! The host will indeed fully consider the number of invitees. In the same manner, the Book of God Almighty is a feast and banquet, to which the whole of the world has been invited. The house that God Almighty has prepared for this invitation is the faculties with which the people have been vested. Nothing can be accomplished without faculties. Now if the teaching of the Holy Quran was presented to an ox, a dog or some other animal, they would not be able to comprehend it, because they do not possess such faculties as can bear the teachings of the Holy Quran. However, Allah the Exalted has granted us those faculties and we can benefit from them.”

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. II, pp. 56-58)

Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, who also serves as national secretary tarbiyat and general secretary of the East Jamaat, was next to report. He said he lived in a small town where only a few Ahmadis lived. With regard to tarbiyat, Huzooraa instructed, “However many Ahmadis live there, if their children are Ahmadis, it is the duty of the tarbiyat department to undertake their tarbiyat; rather, they should do the tarbiyat of the [Ahmadi] children of the entire country so that the next generation may grow up in an Ahmadi environment. If you did not do the tarbiyat of the children, you might stay Ahmadis, but the children would go wherever they desired. Hence, it is essential that you undertake their tarbiyat in order to keep them attached to the Jamaat. [...]

“Tell the children what Ahmadiyyat entails, why we are Ahmadis, what the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa were, what circumstances were going to arise in the Latter Days and which Messiah and Mahdi was to appear after the onset of those circumstances. They should be familiar with all these basics of Ahmadiyyat. Moreover, [they should know that] we are Ahmadi Muslims, we are true Muslims, we believe in the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, we believe him to be Khatam an-Nabiyyin, the Seal of all the Prophets and that we firmly believe in all of his prophecies. Ansarullah as well as Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya should instruct the children in all these matters right from childhood so that when they grow older, they know what Ahmadiyyat entails and why they are Ahmadis.”

Next, speaking with a member, Huzooraa said, he should bring all the Ahmadis living in his areas closer to the Jamaat and make them active, and, “only then will they benefit from having pledged the bai‘at. Otherwise, there is no benefit in just increasing the numbers. Moreover, as I said to the secretary tarbiyat, especially bring the children and the youth closer and undertake their tarbiyat and the tarbiyat of the ladies. The national president should also be aware that they need to activate the system of Lajna Imaillah. Moreover, the Lajna should undertake the tarbiyat of its members. If their tarbiyat is not done, then the tarbiyat of the children cannot be done either. Likewise, if the men do not establish good examples with regard to their piety, religious education, conduct and spirituality, then the women and the children will also not take heed. Hence, reform yourselves and then attach your wives and children to yourselves. This is how the Jamaat can progress. This is also the benefit of their pledging the bai‘at and becoming Ahmadis. Otherwise, what would be the benefit of it, if they forgot after some time, what Ahmadiyyat was?”

Next to report was the president of the Central Jamaat, who gave a brief but accurate report with facts and figures.

“You had solid information and you have presented a good report. It seems that you came well-prepared with all the facts and figures. Masha-Allah, it seems that you are doing good work”, Huzooraa said to him. “As I said earlier, attach every member of the Jamaat to yourself, especially the children. Undertake the tarbiyat of the children and the women. If you treat them well in homes, it will lead to a good tarbiyat of them”, Huzooraa added. The president presented

further details of the salat centre of the Jamaat and said that since Marrakech was a tourist town, sometimes people would come and stay at the centre without having sought prior permission from tabshir. He asked, what should be done about them.

Huzooraa said, “You should seek prior permission from tabshir through the national president. Request a report from tabshir and if they recommend it, then grant permission to them [the tourists]. Otherwise, they should not stay for a long period.” Huzooraa further said to the national president, “If they are firm and established Ahmadis, then you can give them permission temporarily, and in the meantime, you should also ask tabshir to verify it.”

The president of the Central Jamaat also asked if Huzooraa could send some Jamia students there for a period of three months so that they may learn Arabic.

Huzoor replied, “Yes, it is possible. If the national president recommends and sends an invitation, then we will assess how many people we may be able to send. We will then send how many ever we are able to send, so that they may live among you, improve their Arabic and you may come to know about the Jamaat’s traditions.”

Next to report was national secretary tabligh [preaching] and president of the Midwest Jamaat. Huzooraa asked him about this year’s bai‘at target and their tabligh plan, to which he said, “Our goal this year is to ask every Ahmadi to preach to the members of their family.” With regard to the bai‘at target, he said it was one thousand. Huzooraa was pleasantly surprised and said, “You have given me an even better target than what I had in mind. May Allah enable you to achieve it.”

Huzooraa then addressed the national president and smilingly remarked, “This is going to be a big challenge for you. Your secretary tabligh seems quite ambitious.”

Next to report was the national secretary for Tahrik-e-Jadid, who also serves as the president of the East Jamaat. Huzooraa asked if they had fulfilled their Tahrik-e-Jadid pledge of this year, to which the secretary replied that they fell 100 dirhams short of the target this year. Huzooraa instructed, “Increase the number of participants. Set a target of 250-300 participants for the upcoming year.”

National secretary wasaya, who also serves as the president of the West Jamaat, was next to report. Huzooraa instructed him to “try to increase the number of musis.” Huzooraa also added, “If you have the AlWasiyyat booklet, you should give it to the people to read, so that they may sign up for Al-Wasiyyat after having read the booklet. Do not have anyone fill out the Wasiyyat form until they have read the Al-Wasiyyat booklet. Also, ask the current musis about it. If they have read the book, then it is fine. Otherwise, give it to them and ask them to read it.”

The next person to report was the qaid umumi of Majlis Ansarullah Morocco, followed by the national secretary ziyafat, who also serves as the local secretary tarbiyat. Huzooraa asked the secretary ziyafat about what food they had prepared for the meeting, to which he responded that breakfast was provided to the amila members and lunch would be served later. With regards to the tarbiyat department, Huzooraa instructed him, “As the local

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

secretary tarbiyat, you should be in contact with every Ahmadi in your halqa [locality]. Inform and teach them how an Ahmadi ought to conduct themselves, how much knowledge they should have about Ahmadiyyat and that they should be regular in their five daily prayers, recite the Holy Quran daily, ponder over its meanings and have excellent morals. This is what you have to teach every Ahmadi member in your area. There should be a clear distinction between Ahmadis and others, so that people may recognise that these people are Ahmadis. May Allah the Exalted enable you to do so.”

A qaid majlis was next to report. Huzooraa instructed him, “Do good tarbiyat of the khuddam, try to make them good Ahmadis and to achieve that, present your own good example: You should possess good religious knowledge as well as spirituality. You should be regular in prayers and exhibit excellent morals.”

The secretary tarbiyat of the East Jamaat was next to report. He said the wives of some of the Ahmadis of his Jamaat had not yet converted to Ahmadiyyat. Huzooraa said, “Your national secretary has set the target of one thousand bai‘ats. However, first the men, that is the ansar and the khuddam, should start tabligh in their own homes. First, they should convert their wives and their children to Ahmadiyyat. Then, they can look outward. [...] If Ahmadiyyat is not in your [own] homes, what will you then preach to the others? The Holy Prophetsa was also instructed by Allah the Exalted to start the preaching from his own home.”

The za‘im of Majlis Ansarullah MidWest was next to report, followed by another amila member who serves as the national secretary isha‘at as well as secretary sam‘i wa-basari. Huzooraa smiled and said, “You requested London or the central MTA team to come over and help you for today’s event. Do you not have cameras yourselves? Could you not have done this yourselves?” To this, the secretary replied that they did not possess the know-how and lacked experience. Huzooraa smiled and replied, “Then, you should send a couple of people over and gain experience from here. The secretary

“

sam‘i wa-basari should come [to the UK] for Jalsa so that you may volunteer in MTA and gain some experience.” Huzooraa asked the secretary what he did professionally, to which he replied that he worked in the IT sector. Huzooraa said, “If you are able to get 15 days or three to four weeks off from your job, then you should come here during the Jalsa period, volunteer here and learn. Thus, you would gain experience. Then, you will be able to organise your work yourself.”

With regard to the isha‘at department, Huzooraa asked whether the Jamaat published any periodical or newsletter, to which the secretary replied that it was not doing so at the moment. Huzooraa said, “Prepare a small bulletin for your Jamaat and send it to the members of the Jamaat every month or every two months, either online or in print form. It can consist of two to three pages or sheets of paper.” The secretary asked, what contents should be included in the bulletin. Huzooraa said, it could have teachings of the Jamaat: “A verse of the Holy Quran along with its commentary, a hadith and some of its commentary if you can find it from Jamaat’s literature, an excerpt from the writings of the Promised Messiahas, summary of one of my sermons, or [a report of] some Jamaat activity or some news about it.”

The president of the East Jamaat was next to report. Huzooraa told him, “You too should implement in your Jamaat, whatever I have said.”

Next to report was the national secretary Waqf-e-Jadid. Huzooraa asked him whether the Waqf-e-Jadid promises for the year had

been collected as the year had just come to an end, to which the secretary responded in the affirmative but said that there were some shortcomings. Huzooraa said, “Make efforts in future.”

The national secretary Waqf-e-Nau was next to report. Huzooraa instructed, “Obtain the Waqf-e-Nau syllabus from the Markaz, teach it to them and undertake their proper tarbiyat.”

Next to report was the imam-us-salat of the Jamaat’s local salat centre. He used to be an imam of a mosque, before accepting Ahmadiyyat. Huzooraa asked him about the attendance at salat and instructed him to try to improve it.

Seated in the adjacent room behind a screen were members of Lajna Imaillah Morocco. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, then spoke with them.

The first to report was National Sadr Lajna Imaillah. Huzooraa instructed her to undertake proper tarbiyat of the members of Lajna so that “they may then do good tarbiyat of their own children and produce good Ahmadis.”

Next to report was the national secretary finance of Lajna Imaillah, who also serves as the president of Lajna Imaillah of the North Jamaat. Huzooraa told her, “Do proper tarbiyat of your Lajna members as their president and ask them to do proper tarbiyat of their children. If the mothers do this tarbiyat and the women reform themselves then, the children as well as the husbands would all become good. Hence, there is a great responsibility of tarbiyat in

the hands of the women.”

Next to report was the national general secretary of Lajna Imaillah, who reported that there were five majalis in total. Huzooraa instructed her to get regular reports from them and to guide them.

Next to report was the national secretary tarbiyat of Lajna Imaillah. Huzooraa told her, “Do the tarbiyat of the members of Lajna in the same manner as I have said earlier: Visit them in their homes, establish contact with them and do their proper tarbiyat.”

National secretary ziyafat was next to report. With regards to the guests that come from outside or abroad, Huzooraa said to her, “You are well aware of Islamic morals in this regard. Exhibit them to the highest possible degree. Serve them with whatever is available. Show as much hospitality as possible. The Promised Messiahas used to honour his guests and that is what the Holy Quran teaches and that was the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa. We too should honour our guests in the same manner and serve them with respect and dignity. That is all.”

Secretary tajnid was next to report. Huzooraa told her to update the tajnid records with the help of the previous secretary.

In the end, Huzooraa prayed that “Allah the Exalted bless you all and enable you to serve the Jamaat as much as possible. May He strengthen your faith and increase you in certainty.” Huzooraa then conveyed his salaam and the meeting came to a successful conclusion.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

Do good tarbiyat of the khuddam, try to make them good Ahmadis and to achieve that, present your own good example: You should possess good religious knowledge as well as spirituality. You should be regular in prayers and exhibit excellent morals.”

This Week in History

A selection from the first 15 blessed years of Khilafat-e-Khamisa

6 - 7 January

6 January 2005: During his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the volunteers of Jalsa Salana Spain and granted them valuable guidance and inspected the Jalsa preparations.

7 January 2005: During his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa hoisted the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat before his Friday Sermon in Pedro Abad, and led everyone in silent prayer. With Huzoor’saa Friday Sermon, the Jalsa Salana Spain commenced. It was the first time a Khalifa of the Promised Messiah graced the event in the history of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Spain. Moreover, it was the first-ever Friday Sermon of a successor of the Promised Messiah in Spain that was broadcast live through MTA. On the same evening, a representative of the Ministry of Justice of Spain had the opportunity to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

7 January 2011: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Hadayatullah Hübsch Sahib, who had passed away on 4 January. He was born on 8 January 1946 in Chemnitz, East Germany. He was an author, journalist and poet. He was a member

of the ethics committee of the State of Hesse and a former press spokesman of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Germany. After accepting Islam Ahmadiyyat in 1969, he requested Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh for an Islamic name, upon which he was given the name “Hadayatullah”. He also served as an imam at the Nuur Mosque in Frankfurt.

7 January 2017: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the Baitul Ehsan Mosque in Mitcham, London.

8 January

8 January 2005: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the concluding address at the Jalsa Salana Spain. On the same day, Huzooraa granted separate audiences to the national amila [executive committee] of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Portugal, and the amila of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Spain.

8 January 2010: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Professor Muhammad Yusuf Sahib of Rachna Town, Lahore, Pakistan, who had been martyred on 5 January, at the age of 65. He had been serving as the local president for the last 20 years.

9 January

9 January 2004: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul

Masih Vaa mentioned that 7 January marked the 10th anniversary since MTA had started broadcasting. Huzooraa commended the efforts of volunteers, and instructed the Jamaat to remember them in prayers.

9 January 2005: During his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted separate audiences to the amila [executive committee] of Lajna Imaillah Spain and the amila of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Spain. Huzooraa also granted an audience to the children.

10 January

10 January 2014: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Master Mashriq Ali Sahib MA of

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa unveiling commemorative plaque at the inauguration of Baitul Ehsan

Governor of Gibraltar with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa addressing the graduates at Jamia Ahmadiyya Convocation, Haslemere, UK, 2014

Hadayatullah Hübsch Sahib

Kolkata, who had passed away on 3 January at the age of 80. He had accepted Ahmadiyyat in 1965 and had the opportunity to serve the Jamaat in various capacities, including Secretary Tabligh, Qaid Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya, Nazim Ansarullah Bengal, Naib Amir and Amir of Jamaat Kolkata, and Provincial Amir of Bengal and Assam.

10 January 2015: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa categorically condemned the Charlie Hebdo attacks that had taken place in France and prayed for peace in the world:

“The perpetrators of this brutal attack may seek to justify their acts in the name of Islam and its Holy Founder (peace be upon him) but their acts have no relation whatsoever to the true teachings of Islam. Nowhere does Islam permit taking the law into one’s own hands or to injure or murder anyone. Yet these so-called Muslims and Muslim groups still do not abstain from such cruelties and atrocities.” (Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community condemns Terrorist Attacks in France, www.pressahmadiyya.com)

11 January

11 January 2005: During his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa visited Gibraltar and granted an audience to its governor.

11 January 2014: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the convocation ceremony of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK in Haslemere, Surrey.

12 January

12 January 2005: During his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa travelled to the historical city of Seville, and visited the mosque, palaces and various other historic places.

12 January 2007: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Allah the Almighty’s blessings in regard to the foundation of the Berlin Mosque, and said that it was a big breakthrough and success, despite severe opposition there.

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Coming from every distant track

Haji Musa Bigiev, ‘Luther of Islam’ and Al-Ustaz Abdul Aziz visit Qadian

A series looking at the high standard of morals of the Promised Messiahas, his Khulafa and the hospitality of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community when receiving visitors

Awwab Saad Hayat Al Hakam

The study of Volume 7 of  Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat brings to light that in April 1939, two famous scholars of the Islamic world visited Qadian, the birthplace of Ahmadiyyat: Haji Musa Jarallah and AlUstaz Abdul Aziz, the author and editor of the monthly magazine  Rabitah Islamiya Damascus.

During this stay, Allamah Musa Jarallah Sahib, known as “Musa Bigiev”, was not only very happy to see rare books in the local institutions of Qadian, especially the central library, but he was also deeply influenced by the beliefs and teachings of the Ahmadiyya Community. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 7, p. 619)

In the description of this trip,   Al Fazl, in its 14 April 1939 issue, wrote about this stay at Qadian.  Al Fazl reported that on 12 April, Allamah Haji Musa Jarallah, a famous Turkish leader, who had been famous in the Islamic world for almost forty years till then, visited Qadian. He was an expert in many languages and the author of several Arabic and Turkish books. He had been visiting India for some time during his travels.

The article went on to say that after he had reached Lahore (on 11 April), he came to Qadian. He was very delighted to see rare books in the Jamaat’s central library. A tea party was held in the guests’ honour, to which local newspaper writers, Maulvi Abdul Mughni Khan Sahib, and some other Companionsra were also invited.

First, photographs were taken of Musa Bigiev Sahib along with some other esteemed members, then they were introduced to each other, after which tea was served.

During this time, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra and Sheikh Mahmud Ahmad Irfani Sahib spoke with the guest in Arabic. Musa Bigiev Sahib described the current state of Muslims in Russia. Companionsra who were well-versed in Javanese and the languages of Turkestan and Japan spoke and expressed their delight at the arrival of the guest.

Sheikh Mahmud Ahmad Irfani Sahib gave a short speech in Arabic in which he expressed his happiness at the arrival of the distinguished guests and said that a long time ago, when Qadian held no significance, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, the Promised Messiah, said that God told him that people would travel and come to Qadian from far distances. He said that he had seen this prophecy fulfilled many times and said that it was once again being fulfilled with the coming of Musa Bigiev Sahib. For this reason, he said, their arrival was a source of great joy and happiness.

Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra narrated the incident in Arabic when a tourist from America came to Qadian during the life of the Promised Messiahas. When he met the Promised Messiahas, he took out his notebook and showed that he had noted, while leaving America, that he would meet the person who claimed prophethood in Qadian. He said to Huzooras that, today he got the opportunity to meet him. The Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, said that his coming to Qadian was also proof of his truthfulness. Because God had informed him many years before that people would come and visit Qadian from far away.

Haji Sahib listened to the entire conversation with great interest and expressed his desire to attain the Arabic, Urdu, and English literature of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. (Al Fazl, 14 April 1939, p. 2)

The desire of this honourable guest to acquire books in other languages, including Urdu, may seem a little strange. Upon further research, it is revealed that Musa Bigiev Sahib was born in 1878 to a family from Turkestan and settled in the Russian region of Kazan. His mother, Fatima, was

the daughter of a local imam and knew Arabic.

Musa Jarallah, who passed away in Cairo, Egypt, in 1949, was a religious scholar with a special reputation as the author of several books and as a translator. In addition to his native city, Kazan, he acquired knowledge from the great pedagogies located in the centres of knowledge and grace in cities such as Bukhara, Istanbul, and Cairo. This religious scholar, who was completely forgotten in the turmoil of the Russian Revolution, had the privilege of translating various books of Islamic sciences as well as the Holy Quran into the Tatar language. He also translated the collection of poetry of famous Iranian poet Khawaja Shamsuddin Hafiz Shirazi - known as “Hafiz” -  Dewan-e Hafiz, in the Tatar language. Musa Jarallah is also called the “Luther of Islam” by some due to some of his views and his critical tendencies. He was also blessed to stay in the Holy Land of Mecca for a long time and perform Hajj. Musa Jarallah also learned the Sanskrit language and studied the Mahabharata during his stay in India.

In regard to this honourable guest, the well-known writer and religious scholar

of the Urdu language, who earned a good reputation in biographical writing, Syed Sulaiman Nadvi, has written in one of his articles,  Hindustan mein Hindustani: “In Mecca, I met Musa Jarallah, a scholar from Moscow, who used to read the Urdu work, Ariz al-Quran from Indians.”

Maulvi Rais Ahmad Jafari (19121968), who was a prominent Urdu writer, journalist, and historian, has written a twopage introduction about this honourable guest, Haji Musa Jarallah, in his famous book  Deed Shuneed. According to this, Haji Musa Jarallah was a Russian scholar who was forced to emigrate after the Russian Revolution. He was a man of  taqwa and piety, a scholar of knowledge, of whom not only Russia but also the Muslim world was proud. The Russian Revolution changed his world. He was forced to leave his homeland and came to India as a refugee. (Deed Shuneed, Karachi, 1897, p. 49)

With reference to the further engagements of Musa Bigiev Sahib,  Al Fazl writes in the report under  MadinatulMasih, dated 13 April that during the tea reception for the honourable guest, some missionaries from Europe, America, and Arab countries were also present on this occasion. Maulvi Abul Ata Sahib Jalandhrira briefly mentioned the beliefs of the Jamaat and the supreme goals of the Promised Messiah. Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra and Maulvi Muhammad Salim Sahib also spoke in Arabic. (Al Fazl, 15 April 1939, p. 1)

Further, the following information was recorded in  Al Fazl, on 16 April 1939, Hazrat Syed Zainul Abidin Waliullah Shahra, who was presiding over the tea gathering, gave a speech and said that life was fickle and would end one day, therefore, he said, there was happiness in responding to God’s call. The gathering ended with silent prayer.

Maulana Dost Mohammad Shahid Sahib, the author of Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, has analysed that Haji Musa Jarallah learned a lot from this trip to Qadian and was deeply influenced by the beliefs and teachings of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. He further writes that Musa Jarallah published a book Huruf Awa’il al-Su’ar (رؤسلا لﺋاوا فور�) in February 1942, three years after his visit to Qadian. In this, he wrote the commentary of Surah al-Jumuah, verse 4, that the meaning of this verse was that God raised a messenger from among the unlettered people. He will also raise a messenger among others from among those who have not yet joined them.

Similarly, in the same book, Allama Musa Jarallah Sahib wrote in support of the theory of the Miraj held by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

The Jamaat’s Library in Qadian | Photo credit: ahmadiyyagallery.org

Jamaat’s humanitarian efforts in Malta

Laiq Ahmed Atif

President Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Malta

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Malta visited a charitable home, Fondazzjoni Sebħ, on 1 December 2022, which provides residential services to children, female survivors of violence and their children, as well as a community service offering support to individuals and families.

On 8 December, a delegation of the Jamaat visited the Id-Dar tal-Providenza, an NGO which was founded in 1965 with the aim of offering individualised residential services to persons with disabilities in a family-like environment that enhances and maximises their abilities with a view to ensuring their full participation in society.

Jamaat Malta also provided festive delights to Happy Parenting Malta for some 50 families living on the sister Island of Gozo.

Jamaat Malta also visited the San Blas Therapeutic Community – Caritas Malta, a drugs rehabilitation centre that offers clients a safe and secure environment 24 hours a day.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Malta had the opportunity to visit another rehab centre,  Sedqa–Komunità Santa Marija, which offers a therapeutic structure

with an emphasis on living as part of a community for 14 months. This is divided into three phases that aim to accompany the resident from the initial stages of physical, mental, and emotional recovery to reintegration into society.

During the above-mentioned two visits, we had the opportunity to meet the residents, and to share some thoughts with them that will be helpful for them to complete the rehabilitation programme successfully with a positive outcome.

The local missionary highlighted the purpose of the visit and what Islam Ahmadiyya stands for. He also presented some references from the Holy Quran and the hadith that highlight the mercy of the Almighty God and that the doors of His forgiveness are always wide open.

3rd Masroor Badminton Tournament held by MKA Bangladesh

Golam Rabbi Mohtamim Taleem, MKA Bangladesh

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Bangladesh held its 3rd Masroor Badminton Tournament from 22 to 23 December 2022, at Darut Tablig Complex, Dhaka.

This year, a total of 11 of the best players from five different regions participated.

On 22 December, the tournament was inaugurated by Naib Sadr II of MKA Bangladesh. The tournament concluded with a prize-distribution ceremony and silent prayer led by the representative of Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bangladesh.

Lajna Imaillah Bradford North, UK, hold a centenary event

Nadeem Assistant Secretary Tarbiyat, Lajna Imaillah Bradford North, UK

Lajna Imaillah Bradford North, UK, hosted a centenary celebration event at the Mahdi Mosque, on 26 November 2022, highlighting the efforts of Lajna Imaillah. The event was attended by 90 members and 42 guests from the Macmillan Charity, Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Salvation Army, Police Officers, etc.

The guests included the leader of the council, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe and Lady Mayoress Helen Love, who both took the opportunity to say a few words.

The centenary celebrations consisted of a presentation and several exhibitions and stalls, that aimed to dispel the negative

messages in the media about the role of women in Islam.

Sadr Lajna Imaillah Bradford North, Sanna Amini Sahiba said:

“We are celebrating all that we have achieved in these 100 years. I am ever so pleased that after two years, we have finally been able to open the doors to our mosque to welcome everyone. The main purpose of events like these is to network and strengthen community relationships.”

To end this celebration of the centenary event, Lajna Imaillah presented two cheques of £250 each, one to Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the other to MacMillan Cancer Support. A winter essentials clothing hamper was also presented to the Salvation Army, hoping to help those struggling this winter.

Fatiha

Muhammad

Obey Allah and His chosen one with complete

submission: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s advice to the Jamaat

one’s faith over the world, Huzoorra said:

“The beauty and attractions of the world seem very endearing to one’s eyes, however, one has to sacrifice them for the sake of their faith. It is a huge trial, but one cannot enter into the fold of God’s loved ones, until one passes through it. [...] Islam does not teach us to abandon the world completely, rather, it commands us to earn the world and work hard, but whenever one comes across choosing between the faith and the world, they should give precedence to their faith without caring about the world. [...]

“The reformer, ma’mur [God’s appointed one] and Imam of this age has included this in the conditions of bai’at, that one should give precedence to their faith over the world. [...] No one can purify themselves until they sacrifice the world for the sake of faith in accordance with the teachings of their religion.

“Until members of the Jamaat inculcate this mindset and spirit, true success cannot be achieved. Therefore, the world should never halt one’s religious obligations.

During his Friday Sermon on 10 October 1919, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra shed light on the true essence of bai‘at [pledge of allegiance] and the importance of obedience.

Huzoorra said that once a person pledged allegiance to God’s chosen one, it became incumbent upon them to follow his directions without making any excuses since his directions were in accordance with the commandments of Allah the Almighty.

Huzoorra further said that one should never consider the commandments of Allah to be a “request” to His servants, but rather, they were in the form of an “order”, since He was the Creator and Master of this universe, and thus mankind was required to show obedience and submission to Him.

Huzoorra continued by saying that God Almighty “is not a man-made king, but rather He has been the King since the time even before you or your forefathers existed. He has been the King even before the creation of Adam[as], the progenitor of mankind. He has been the King even before the creation of the earth and the creation of the smallest particles, which helped in the formation of the earth. His rule is neither due to being elected by us, nor does He govern as our subordinate, but rather whatever we have gained, belongs to Him. For this reason, His commandments are orders, [so as to say] ‘I have given you this command, now it is your duty to obey it.’ [...]

“As far as worldly governments are concerned, it is commonly believed that they belong to the public. […] Whatever authorities a government holds, are obtained from the lower level [public], whether with

their consent of heart or just in a contrived way. [...] If the whole public denies [to follow] a certain ruler, they can never be retained under the rule. No government could ever rule over such people.

“However, the Kingdom of God is not of such a kind. Even if all of the people refused to accept His Divinity, He would never withdraw from it, but rather He would say, ‘You are denying it today, but will have to accept it one day’. The world denied Him, however, He said, ‘You will have to accept me one day’.

“He chooses a person from among the people to glorify His Kingdom, and proclaims, ‘I will make you accept My Kingdom through this person’. In regards to that [chosen] person, the people say, ‘He is inferior to us and holds a lower status, he neither possesses any wealth nor any big following and government’. [However,] God says, ‘Well, I will make you accept [My Divinity] through that very person’.

“At last, the world begins to obey him [God’s chosen one], since he is granted the [spiritual] kingdom by the King, who is Qadeem [ever-existing], Qadeer [AllPowerful], Khaliq [Creator], and Malik [Master]. Since he serves as His vicegerent, one should not say ‘no’ to his directions either.” (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 6, pp. 313-314)

Huzoorra further said:

“Therefore, the one who has taken the bai‘at, should not say, that ‘I cannot do such and such thing’, since they have surrendered their freedom themselves [at the hands of God’s chosen one]. If one says, that ‘I cannot do this’, then what is the meaning of doing bai’at at the hands of God and His subordinate? In reality, they do whatever their nafs [heart] desires, and upon finding

anything against their nafs, they say, that ‘I cannot do this.’” (Ibid, p. 316)

Huzoorra continued by saying that if one pledged allegiance at the hands of God’s subordinate, but still did not follow the pathway taught by him, it indicated that they were being controlled by the desires of their nafs:

“Until one fulfils the desires of God and follows the pathway taught by Him, the claim of bai’at is worthless. [...] It is the duty of a believer to fulfil the responsibility given to them, and they are not expected to say that they have no interest in that specific task or are not eligible for it. Supposedly, even if they are not eligible but intend to fulfil the responsibility for the sake of God, then, seeing their pious intention, God Almighty will grant them the ability to do so. God will grant them courage, and His succour will come in their support.” (Ibid, p. 317)

In the end, Huzoorra prayed: “May Allah the Almighty enable you to understand this, and instil in you such obedience as He desires to create within His servants. Amin.” (Ibid, p. 318)

During his Friday Sermon on 17 October 1919, Huzoorra said:

“A believer should always strive to protect themselves from the tricks of Satan, and to occupy themselves in prayers to God with humility, so that they may not be engrossed by arrogance and ego at any point in time and be ruined. The example of the one seeking God, is just like the person swimming in a fast-flowing river; continuing with courage will guarantee their safety, however, the slightest of negligence would cause them to stumble and water would engulf them.” (Ibid, pp. 325-326)

During his Friday Sermon on 31 October 1919, speaking about giving precedence to

“Hence, I advise members of the Jamaat that if they desire to attain the nearness of God and wish to reap the fruits of Ahmadiyyat, they are required to give precedence to their faith over the world, and let the world serve the religion. If they do not do so, then their claims about Islam and Ahmadiyyat would be worthless.

“Thus, until one truly honours Islam and Ahmadiyyat, it would be meaningless to think that ‘we are Ahmadis’, since one can never succeed without practical efforts.” (Ibid, pp. 333-336)

During his Friday Sermon on 14 November 1919, Huzoorra said that one should never become arrogant for their knowledge and status:

“Remember, one’s knowledge, worldly and religious status, lineage — in short, none of these characteristics are of any avail before God. Anyone who shows arrogance about such things, is in the wrong. One is required to be humble in front of Allah, and to strive and pray for safeguarding their faith.” (Ibid, p. 342)

During his Friday Sermon on 19 December 1919, Huzoorra said:

Islam “has made it incumbent upon the Muslims to utilise their sagacity but within the moral and religious limits, and to freely assess a certain religion, but upon witnessing the truth they should submit to it. It is stated:

“[Obey Allah, and obey His Messenger. (Surah an-Nisa, Ch. 4, V. 60)]

“Everyone has the right to express their points of view, however, once they come to know that a certain commandment is from God and His messenger, and from their successors, they are required to show complete obedience. [...] Whatever commandments Islam has presented are

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

necessary and inevitable for spiritual progress.” (Ibid, pp. 360-361)

During his Friday Sermon on 30 July 1920, Huzoorra said:

“Obedience is essential not only for religious progress, but for worldly progress as well. […] A common reason behind a person’s disobedience is arrogance on their part, and arrogance was the first sin that took place in the world. […] In addition to religion, even if we look from a worldly perspective, a nation that desires progress has no other way than obedience. If people had gone through the history of Islam, the way I have read it, they would have known that the reason behind the regress, humiliation, and deterioration of the Muslims was their abandonment of the spirit of obedience. When there is no obedience, discipline cannot be maintained, and when discipline breaks away, no nation can ever retain its prestige. […]

“In terms of material progress, Europe is far superior to us, and they also have good discipline and obedience. We desire to make Europe our follower, and this can only happen when we inculcate in ourselves the spirit of obedience and discipline more than they have. Do not merely say that ‘God has promised us that we will succeed.’ No doubt, God has made a promise to us, but we also hold some responsibilities.

“[In terms of worldly means], we are weak and have no status in front of Europe, therefore, if Europe is to become our follower – which will surely happen –it will be with the sheer grace of God, not through any human plans. However, it does not mean that we become negligent in our obligations. [...]

“Therefore, I advise you all, and those who are outside [of Qadian] through the newspaper, that they should learn to show obedience, so that our Jamaat may succeed as soon as possible.” (Ibid, pp. 493-495)

During his Friday Sermon on 19 August 1921, Huzoorra said:

“The core teaching of Islam is for one to submit to Allah the Almighty, for this reason, we have been given the title of ‘Muslims’. […] The only method for attaining progress is for one to become a Muslim in its true essence. One cannot attain salvation by only following a specific commandment, but rather, by acting upon all of the commandments. If one disobeys or shuns even a single commandment of the sharia, they cannot be termed a [true] Muslim. […]

“Therefore, if one desires to attain success and progress, they are required to never disrespect any commandment of God. Until one is ready to leave aside their habits and customs for the sake of God, their prayers, fasting, and other deeds cannot make them a [true] Muslim.

“The true essence of Islam is for one to exhibit true submission even when their nafs is denying to do so. If one’s submission is not of such a level, and instead they give precedence to their habits and customs, then it is not considered the true essence of Islam. […]

“A Muslim, in its true essence, is the one who continues to be obedient. The one who, in addition to disobeying [the commandments], disrespects the religious teachings, can neither be called a [true] Muslim, nor become the recipient of any blessings or acceptance of prayers.”

(Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 7, pp. 84-86) In one of his couplets, while advising the Ahmadi youth, Huzoorra stated:

“Do not make the intellect rule over the religion, it is blind in itself if there is no light of revelation.”

Commenting on this, Huzoorra said: “Everyone is obliged to believe in a religion after considering it to be true. [...] However, once a person believes in the teachings [of a religion] after much certainty, they do not hold the right to argue its details if they do not align with their personal ‘intellect’. The spiritual system has been established by God Almighty, hence, there is no comparison between rationality and religion. In fact, if one puts rationality as a judge over the religion, it would mean to raise a question – God forbid – as to whether our rationality is better or God Almighty’s Knowledge. Though it is also essential to determine whether the matters attributed to the religion are actually a part of it or not.” (Lauh-ul-Huda, Anwar-ul‘Ulum, Vol. 5, p. 193)

In another couplet, Huzoorra said: ہو لِمعا � ہو �جر

“Whether you are a statesman, a general or a scholar, we will never be pleased if you do not possess Islam.”

Commenting on this, Huzoorra said: “We will never be pleased if worldly progress is not accompanied by [firm] faith. Since if this were the true objective, then

what was the need for us to accept Islam? In such a case, why should one not accept Christianity, which possesses all kinds of material means.” (Ibid)

At another instance, commenting on the verse 64 of Surah an-Nur:

“Treat not the calling of the Messenger among you like the calling of one of you to another. Allah does know those of you who steal away covertly. So let those who go against His command beware lest a trial afflict them or a grievous punishment overtake them.”

Huzoorra said: “Allah states that the opinion of individuals does not hold any weight in front of the call of the Imam [of the time]. Whenever the call of the Almighty’s messenger reaches you, it is your duty to say labbaik [‘Here I am, at your command!’] and to strive for its fulfilment, since herein lies the secret to your progress. [...] Anyhow, it is essential to say labbaik in response to the prophet’s call, in fact, this is one of the biggest signs of the [true] faith. Due to the fact that the subject of Khilafat-e-Islamiyyah is being mentioned in the previous verses, and all commandments have been given in relation to the strengthening of the Islamic system, therefore, that subject continues in this verse as well.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 6, pp. 408-409)

Further, Huzoorra mentioned the battle of Uhud, and stated that the Holy Prophetsa had instructed a group of companions to

secure a specific hill slope and to not leave it at any cost, even if the Muslims had achieved victory. However, after the victory, the companions asked their officer-in-charge to allow them to leave, and said that there was no need to stay since the victory had been achieved. When the officer-in-charge reminded them about the Holy Prophet’ssa instruction, they responded that “‘the Holy Prophet’ssa purpose was to merely advise us, now that we have achieved victory, we have nothing to do here.’ Therefore, giving precedence to their personal opinion over the command of God’s Messengersa, they left that hill slope, except their officer and a few soldiers.” (Ibid, pp. 410-412)

Huzoorra said that, sensing the opportunity, the opponents’ army attacked through the same hill slope, and consequently, the Muslims had to face a huge setback:

“In this verse, Allah the Almighty calls the attention of the Muslims towards the fact that those who do not show complete obedience to the commandments of Muhammad, the Messengersa of Allah, and give precedence to their personal interpretations over his commandments, should have some fear, lest as a result of this a trial afflict them or a grievous punishment overtake them. In other words, it has been said that if you desire to be successful, it is your duty to stand and sit in response to the movement of the hand [of the Imam of the time]. As long as this spirit remains within the Muslims, they will [spiritually] flourish.” (Ibid, pp. 411-412)

May Allah the Almighty enable all of us to act upon these golden principles. Amin.

A brief history of the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih Qadian

Mohammad Mufleh Ahmad Student of Jamia Ahmadiyya Canada

A history of the White Minaret

The Holy Prophetsa mentioned many signs in regard to the advent of the Promised Messiahas. One such sign was the appearance of the Promised Messiahas near a white minaret to the east of Damascus.

“Allah would send Jesus, son of Mary, and he will descend at the white minaret to the east of Damascus.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan, Hadith 2937)

This hadith is often misunderstood by many non-Ahmadi Muslims. Their point of view is that the Promised Messiah would descend near a white minaret that would be on the eastern side of Damascus, meaning that the minaret would be within the city itself. So, to fulfil this prophecy, a minaret was built in 1069 on the eastern side of the city of Damascus in the Great Umayyad Mosque. The cost of construction was estimated to be “hundreds of thousands of dinars.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 114)

A few hundred years later, in April of 1340, Christians set fire to the Great Umayyad Mosque, which resulted in the minaret burning to the ground. (Ibid) A new base was set for the minaret at the same spot and was completed in 1372-73. (Ibid) Just 30 years later, in 1400, the Great Umayyad Mosque caught fire once again and despite best efforts, the mosque and the newly built minaret burned down. Soon after, in 1402, the governor of Syria, started the renovation of the mosque, which included the renovation of the Minaret of Jesus. (Ibid)

The reality of “...to the east of Damascus”

The construction of the Minaret of Jesus in Damascus without anyone claiming to be the Promised Messiah (within Damascus) demonstrates that the Muslims believed that the nuzul [descent] would be within the city of Damascus. This belief has proven to be a mistake, and what has actually turned out to be the case is that this only meant that the nuzul would be somewhere to the east of Damascus, meaning anywhere (regardless of country, culture or nation) that is east of Damascus. This interpretation is not only held by Ahmadi Muslims, but also by eminent scholars of the past, such as Imam Jalal ad-Din as-Suyutirh. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 115)

Regarding this, the Promised Messiahas stated:

“In some of the ahadith, it is mentioned that the Messiah would descend near a minaret which is located to the east of Damascus. Hence, this hadith is not

contradictory to our interpretation, since we have stated many times that our town, that is Qadian, and this mosque of ours is situated to the east of Damascus, near which a minaret will be erected. The hadith does not mention the details as to whether that minaret would be affiliated to or a part of Damascus, rather that it would be located to the east of it.” (Majmu‘a-e-Ishtiharat [1986], Vol. 3, p. 286, footnote)

Intention to construct Minarat-ul Masih

“Now come forward and go forth, as your time is near. The time is now coming that the people of Muhammad will be lifted from the pit and their steps will be planted firmly on a strong tower.” (Barahin-eAhmadiyya [English], Vol. 4, p. 401)

These were the words revealed to the

Promised Messiahas while he was writing his book Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya. They clearly point towards the idea that the Promised Messiahas would have something to do with a minaret or a tower, although it was probably not clear at the time as to whether this was a physical or spiritual tower.

In May 1900, the Promised Messiahas expressed his intention of constructing a minaret called “Minarat-ul-Masih” in the courtyard of the Aqsa Mosque in Qadian, to also fulfil the grand prophecy of the white minaret in a physical or literal sense. On 28 May 1900, Huzooras published an announcement [ishtihar] detailing the importance of fulfilling this prophecy and calling the attention of Ahmadis towards the funding for the construction of this minaret. At that time, the Jamaat’s financial situation was not very strong. There were matters that required funding, like tabligh [preaching] and the number of Jamaat members was not very high at the time. Hazrat Mir Hissam-ud-Dinra estimated the cost for the

construction of the minaret to be above 10,000 rupees. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 115).

In the ishtihar, the Promised Messiahas also detailed his objectives for the minaret. Firstly, that the muezzin would call the azan for all five daily prayers. This would proclaim to the world that there is only one God, and He alone is worthy of worship and that He is alive and still shows signs. Secondly, bright lamps would be placed on the top of the minaret, which would signify the dispelling of darkness and the enlightening of the world. The lights would also be symbolic of the age of spiritual and heavenly light and spiritual advancement. Lastly, a clock would be placed at the top. It would strike at the top of every hour for the benefit of the people. It would indicate that in the present time the doors of heaven are still open and that there is no need for any war with the sword. (Majmu‘a-e-Ishtiharat [1986], Vol. 3, pp. 283-284)

Opposition to the construction of Minarat-ulMasih

The pure intentions of the Promised Messiahas were opposed regarding the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih. The opponents of the Jamaat were quick to take this opportunity and attack Huzooras They alleged that the Promised Messiahas was wasting money on a minaret. In response to these allegations, the Promised Messiahas published an ishtihar on 1 July 1900, and stated that the money was not being wasted on the minaret because its construction would fulfil a prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa. The Promised Messiahas also said that the clock would tell the time for the people, and help them be punctual for prayers, therefore, this would not be a bad thing at all.

Sacrifices made by Ahmadis for Minarat-ul-Masih

The Promised Messiahas decided to divide the estimated cost of 10,000 rupees into 100 rupees per person (Al Fazl, 26 January 1920), and the people who donated 100 rupees would have their names engraved on the minaret. Immediately after this announcement was made, four people, namely Hazrat Munshi Abdul Aziz Aujlawira, Hazrat Mian Shadi Khanra, Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib M.A. and Sheikh Niyaz Ahmad Sahib immediately paid the prescribed amount. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 117) Hazrat Amma Jan, Sayyidah Nusrat Jehan Begumra, pledged 1000 rupees, which she fulfilled by selling one of her own properties in Delhi. (Ibid)

Initial arrangements for construction

By the end of 1901, the blueprints for the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih had been

completed by Hazrat Sayyid Abdur Rashidra and the bricks had also been prepared. The land for the preparation of the bricks was given by Hazrat Mian Imam Dinra of Qadian. (Ibid) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira requested that his own house may serve as the location for the Minarat-ul-Masih, but the Promised Messiahas decided that the Minarat-ul-Masih be constructed in the Aqsa Mosque. (Ibid)

The construction workers were from Sialkot and as a result of the plague, they were unable to travel to Qadian causing a delay in the construction.

Complaint about the construction of Minarat-ul-

Masih

Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims, including government officials, took counsel amongst themselves and made it a common cause to oppose the Promised Messiah’sas plan of constructing the minaret:

“When the work of excavating the foundations was nearing completion, a police official came to Qadian from Batala on his round and sent a secret report, dated 6-3-1903, against the construction of the proposed Minaret.” (Life of Ahmad, p. 774)

Foundation of Minarat-ulMasih

On 13 March 1903, after the Jumu‘ah prayer, Hazrat Hakim Fazl Ilahira and some other companions suggested that the Promised Messiahas lay the foundation of the minaret himself. The Promised Messiahas said, “You bring a brick, and I will pray upon it, and where I tell you to place it, you place it.” So, then Hazrat Hakim Fazl Ilahira brought a brick, Huzooras placed it on his thigh and prayed for a long while and then blew on the brick and gave it to Hazrat Hakim Fazl Ilahira and said to place the brick in the west side of the foundation of the minaret.

On the way to the minaret, Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Karim Sialkotira also prayed on the brick. Hazrat Mir Nasir Nawabra was placed in-charge of the construction. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 118)

Complaint about Minarat-ulMasih continued

On 17 April 1903, Buddha Mal, Ghanayya Lal, Bur Singh Narain and Dasawar Singh complained to the authorities that the minaret would be used to look into the houses of the neighbours to spy on them, breaching their privacy. Then, only ten days later, Buddha Mal, Hukam Chand, Labhu Ram, Salig Ram, Mirza Ali Sher Baig and Mirza Imam Din again complained to the authorities about the construction of the minaret. Imam Din presented the idea that since the mosque is a public place and the minaret is a private structure, its construction was impeding their rights. On this day, the tehsildar of Batala asked the Promised Messiahas about the minaret and so Huzooras wrote to him in reply to the allegations, saying that all the people of Qadian knew the minaret was to be built in the mosque and that the complaint was only made due to personal enmity. The Promised Messiahas said that the building did not interfere with anyone’s purdah [privacy]. Moreover, there would not be even enough space at the top of the minaret for anyone to

First Ahmadiyya mosque in Niger’s Bouza city

Muhammad Jamal Niger Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Niger had the opportunity to inaugurate the first mosque in Bouza city, alhamdulillah

The construction of this mosque started in September 2022. Regional missionary,

Amir Latif Sahib, oversaw the construction of the mosque. The members of the Jamaat regularly participated in the construction of the mosque and helped save a significant amount of money by carrying out tasks such as providing labour for the construction project.

The construction work was completed within a short period of six weeks.

The inauguration of this mosque took place on 9 December 2022. Asad Majeeb Sahib, Amir and missionary-in-charge Niger commenced the formal reception and inaugurated the mosque with the Jumuah prayer.

A large number of Ahmadis and nonAhmadis participated in this blessed event. Among those present were the chiefs of nearby villages, the mayor of Bouza, the traditional Chief of Bouza, Prefect of Bouza and many renowned figures. In his speech, Amir Sahib Jamaat Niger welcomed the guests and introduced Jamaat-eAhmadiyya. He assured the local populace that this new Ahmadiyya mosque would be an ideal place to convey the message of the true Islam, Islam Ahmadiyyat, free from all kinds of discrimination.

Keeping the presence of non-Ahmadi guests in mind, he informed the audience about the purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and mentioned his true status as stated by Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophetsa. He told the audience that Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, under the auspicious guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, calls people to the true teachings of Islam and works to promote peace and harmony in society.

The mosque can accommodate approximately 120 worshippers.

remain there and spy. And in this area, there would already be buildings of the height of minarets and people would be living in them; hence, there should be no reason for any complaint, otherwise, the same complaint could be made about them (27 such people were named). (Life of Ahmad, pp. 775-776)

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad MAra narrated that during a meeting with the magistrate, the Promised Messiahas pointed to Buddha Mal (a Hindu Arya Samajist who lived in Qadian and was of an extremist disposition and was opposing the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih) and said, “Here is Lala Buddha Mal, please ask him if there has been any occasion where I could be of any service to him but failed to oblige him; and whether there ever has been any occasion when he had the opportunity to harm me but he refrained from doing so.” Buddha Mal hung his head out of embarrassment and shame, and did not have any courage to respond to Huzooras (Seerat-e-Tayyaba, pp. 58-59)

Opposition persists

On 1 May 1903, Mirza Nizam Din wrote to the authorities saying that the Promised Messiahas was laying the foundation for a new religion. Nizam Din claimed that the minaret was being erected simply to take possession of the mosque and he added that if the building would collapse, people would be hurt and hence there would be a danger of a breach of the peace.

Then just a week later, on 8 May, the tehsildar of Batala, Moti Ram, came to Qadian for inquiries. He was acting suspiciously, so on 9 May 1903, a memorial with the signatures of 30 Ahmadis was sent to him.

Then on 10 May, the Promised Messiahas again addressed the tehsildar and presented around fifteen points that refuted the allegations that were being made by the opponents. (Life of Ahmad, p. 777-781)

The verdict

Despite all these proofs, on 12 May 1903, tehsildar Moti Ram made a negative report to the deputy commissioner. However, by the grace of God, the Deputy Commissioner was an intelligent man. He understood the situation and on 13 May, decided that the construction of the minaret was not a threat to the peace in Qadian. He stated that “if anyone is grieved or offended by the construction, then they should resort to civil proceedings.” (Ibid, pp. 781-782)

Pause in construction

There was no longer anything stopping the construction of Minarat-ul-Masih, however, due to the weak financial situation of the Jamaat at the time, the construction was stopped. Then a few years later, in April 1905, the Promised Messiahas requested 5000 rupees from his followers for the minaret. It was suggested that if 5000 people could each give 1 rupee, this target would be fulfilled, but due to financial difficulties this

was not possible. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 119)

Prophecy of the completion of Minarat-ul-Masih

Around this time, a man came to the Promised Messiahas and asked when the minaret would be completed. The Promised Messiahas responded that if he completed all the work in his lifetime, then what work would there be for those that came after him. (Ibid)

Completion of Minarat-ulMasih

During the Promised Messiah’sas life, the minaret was six feet off the ground. (Ibid) The construction of Minarat-ul-Masih resumed on 27 November 1914 after a ceremonial brick was placed by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. Hazrat Qazi Abdur Rahim Bhattira oversaw the construction. Near the end of December 1915 and the beginning of January 1916, Minarat-ulMasih was finally completed in all its glory. It stands 32 metres tall and according to the Promised Messiah’sas desire, 211 names of those who donated 100 rupees for this great building were engraved on the minaret. The minaret has clocks and lights on it as well, which make it visible for miles. 5,963 rupees was the final cost (excluding the cost for the initial foundation, clocks, lights, and nameplates of the 100 people who first gave chanda etc.)

100 Years Ago...

Ahmadiyya news from Qadian and London

The Review of Religions [English], January, February & March 1923

Qadian

Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih [IIra], Head of the Ahmadiyya Community, had indifferent health before the annual Jalsa (i.e., gathering) of the Ahmadiyya Community, which was held as usual in the Christmas [holidays] of 1922. The injury that he had sustained in the leg last year gave him some trouble; the pain having revived on account of the coming of winter. Thank God he was better in the Jalsa days and besides granting a large number of interviews to the members of the Community who had come to Qadian from all parts of the country, he delivered two public lectures, each of which lasted for more than four hours. He also gave two lectures to the female members of the Community. This hard work, which was in addition to his ordinary duties, which he never relinquished, told on his weak health and he had a rather severe attack of cold, cough and fever and had to be in bed for more than a fortnight in January [1923]. This necessitated a change and on medical advice, he went to the riverside for a trip. His trips, however, are never quite complete holidays for him, for though away from the headquarters, he always has to do a lot of work in connection with his official duties. His Holiness came back to Qadian on 1 March 1923 and is now, thank God, enjoying much better health.

The Ahmadiyya Secretariat at Qadian has been busy in the discharge of its duties. There has been a slight slackening in the work of the office of the General Secretary,

Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Qadian. Dr Khalifa Rashid-ud-Din LMS, General Secretary, went on leave and no suitable substitute could be found on account of all the local prominent members of the Community being rather over-busy in their respective spheres of work. The doctor, who is an old companion of the Promised Messiahas has temporarily started medical practice at Lahore. We wish him long life and prosperity and an early return to Qadian, which he so dearly loves but has been forced by circumstances to leave temporarily.

The Secretary for Missionary Work to His Holiness is to be congratulated on the very able and efficient work of his department in the last few months. Successful meetings and controversies [i.e., debates] have been held in the different parts of the Punjab, notably at Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalalpur, Gujranwala and Delhi. Preachers and missionaries have been touring the country and calling men to truth and righteousness.

Maulvi Sanaullah of Amritsar, who is a notorious enemy of the Ahmadiyya Community, made a bold entry into the Hyderabad State of Southern India and began a series of public attacks against the Ahmadiyya Movement and its Holy Founder. This necessitated the sending of Ahmadi missionaries to the Nizam’s dominions. Sheikh Abdur Rahman Misri and Maulvi Fazl Din Vakil were consequently sent off to Hyderabad and their reports show that they have been very busy refuting his charges and inviting people to the fold of Ahmadas Seth Abdullah Allah Din of Secunderabad, whom our readers best know as the compiler

of “The Claims and Teachings of Ahmad”, issued a challenge to Maulvi Sanaullah to enter into a Mubahala duel, i.e., invoking the curse of God on whichever of the two parties be enemy of the truth and then waiting for God’s decision for a year – a criterion for testing truth held out by the Quran. Seth Allah Din offered a sum of 10,000 rupees to the Maulvi if he entered into the Mubahala duel with our missionaries and came out successful at the end of the year and further promised to sever his connections with the Ahmadiyya Movement if God’s wrath did not overtake the Maulvi within that period. But the Maulvi would not listen to his proposal.

Another important feature of the missionary work of the department is the new wave of missionary activity in the neighbourhood of Qadian. Chaudhry Fateh Mohammad Sayal MA, Secretary for Missionary Work to His Holiness, has inaugurated an elaborate scheme of missionary work for the immediate neighbourhood of Qadian and every Friday parties of zealous and devout Ahmadis are to be seen marching out of Qadian to the various villages roundabout. The pious efforts of these silent workers have already begun to bear fruit, for hardly a week passes without the ranks of the Ahmadiyya Community being considerably swelled with new converts from the neighbourhood. Last but not least is the work of our missionary department in connection with the so-called “low castes”. Very little attention has been given so far by us to the uplifting of the large masses of the [so-called]

“untouchables” of India, and it is a painful confession that the Christian missionaries in India are ahead of us in this respect. The “untouchables” of India are fast embracing Christianity and hundreds of thousands from these depressed classes have already gone over to the Christian missionaries. Our Khalifa has been of late rousing the activities of his secretaries and has been telling them that the message of Islam is for all mankind. The mightiest king and the ablest of scholars are as human as a street sweeper. Nay the poor neglected ignorant man has a better claim on our attention and sympathy than his more fortunate brethren; and it is a pity these men have been so far neglected by us. Consequently, the Secretary for Missionary Work has now taken up the work in hand in right earnest and besides many honorary workers, a special paid preacher has been appointed solely for work among the low castes. The Secretary has also appealed to the outstation Ahmadiyya Anjumans to begin the work in earnest. This, as anticipated, has roused the apprehensions of the Christian missionaries who had so far almost monopolised this field. A few days ago, a European Christian missionary, who probably belonged to the Batala Mission, came over to Qadian, ostensibly as a visitor desiring to study our movement and our activities, but, as there were reasons to believe, with the purpose of knowing what we were doing in connection with the low castes and how far our efforts were meeting with success. He was shown around our various institutions and was entertained by the Secretary.

London

Our London Mission is in a prosperous state. Professor Abdur Rahim Nayyar has come back to England from Nigeria and will stay there for some time before coming back to Qadian. Brother Mubarak Ali BA of Bengal, who is in charge of the London Mission, has temporarily gone to Germany, where it has been decided to establish a mission. It is just possible that Brother Mubarak Ali may be transferred from London to Berlin to be the first Ahmadi Muslim missionary in Germany. In this case, there will be a vacancy in the London Mission staff, which will probably be filled by some new missionary from the headquarters. Maulvi Mohammad Din BA, en route to the USA, stayed in London and gave very useful help to our London missionaries. There is however one thing in connection with the London Mission which appears to us a great drawback on the activities of the said Mission and which if looked to will, God helping, greatly facilitate our work in England. We mean a monthly magazine devoted to and conducted by the Mission. A powerful organ will greatly shorten our labours, extend our influence and be a rallying point for the converts. Any regular mission without a local journal is badly handicapped and our London Mission is no exception. Our missionaries must have made abnormal efforts to have been so successful without a journal to facilitate their work and without possessing even a mosque in the beginning.

(Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original in The Review of Religions [English], January, February and March 1923)

Prophets of Allah

Prophet Idris: ‘And We exalted him to a lofty station’

Jalees Ahmad Al Hakam

Idrisas, also known as Enoch in the Bible, was a Prophet of God and known as “a truthful man”, as Allah states:

“And relate [the story] of Idris [as mentioned] in the Book. He was [a] truthful [man, and] a Prophet.” (Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.57)

The Holy Quran states that he was exalted to a lofty station (Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.58). He was also among the prophets whom the Holy Prophetsa saw during the journey of al-mi‘raj [ascension]. (Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Kitab tafsir al-Quran ‘an Rasulillahsa)

Idris’as relation with Adamas

In  Tafsir-e-Kabir, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra writes:

“According to Islamic traditions, in the genealogy of Adam[as], the first prophet was Adamas, who was the father. The second prophet was Sethas, who was the son of Adamas. The third was Enochas, who was the fifth great-grandson of Adamas, and the fourth prophet was Noahas, who was the grandson of the fifth great-grandson [of Adamas].” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, p. 304)

First to write with the pen

In relation to Prophet Idrisas, Imam alQurtubi (d. 671 AH), under the abovequoted verse, said:

“Idris, upon whom be peace, was the first to write with the pen, the first to sew and stitch his clothing and the first to study knowledge of the stars, their calculations and their movements.” (Tafsir al-Qurtubi, Surah Maryam, Chapter 19, Verse 57)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has also alluded to this and said that much Jewish literature has alluded to it.

Prophet Idris’as name

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, in his commentary, has stated that most commentators of the Holy Quran were in agreement that Idrisas of the Holy Quran was Enoch mentioned in the Bible. Huzoorra said that Idrisas was a prophet who came before Noahas. He added that it was known that the meanings of “Enoch” and “Idris” were similar. Huzoorra stated that וֹנֲח (Hanok), in Hebrew, means

dedication or instruction. And سیردإ (Idris), in Arabic, means one who reads and teaches.

The ‘lofty status’ of Prophet Idrisas and a point for Christians to explore

Alluding to Idrisas, the Holy Quran states that he was exalted to a lofty station:

“And We exalted him to a lofty station.” (Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.58)

As an Ahmadi Muslim, when I ponder upon this verse, my mind automatically takes me to the accounts of Prophet Jesusas mentioned both in the Holy Quran and Bible, as well as the beliefs Christians hold regarding him. The true accounts of Prophet Jesusas have not only been gravely misunderstood by many Muslims today but also by many Christians as made evident by history. (For a detailed read, see Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh, Christianity: A Journey from Facts to Fiction)

All the main branches of the Christian faith have assigned divine attributes to Jesusas, commonly referred to as the

“godhead of Jesus”. A major point stated by these Christians to support this notion is that Jesus was raised and taken to heaven alive. (The Muslim point of view has been extensively mentioned in various articles published in Al Hakam.)

However, if Christians believe in the godhead of Jesusas for this reason, then a point which must be explored is why is it that no similar notion is attributed to Idrisas who was exalted to a high station in heaven? Even the Bible states that Enoch walked with God, “And Enoch walked with God” (Genesis 5:24)

Commenting on this matter, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “[…] if the Messiahas can be called the Son of God because of his ascension to heaven, then the divinity of Idrisas must also be acknowledged by the Christian world, since according to the Bible he was also taken up to heaven.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, p. 313)

It is a straightforward matter: Idrisas was a noble prophet of Allah who remained loyal to God’s will till the end. This is what has been referred to by Idrisas walking with God.  Thus, the very being and existence of Prophet Idrisas rejects the notion of the

godhead of Jesusas. If the godhead of Jesusas relies on his accession to heaven, then what about Idrisas?

This language used in the Bible is not unique to Idrisas alone. The Bible states that Noahas also walked with God.

“Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.” (Genesis, 6:9)

Alluding to Abrahamas, the Bible states: “And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.” (Genesis, 17:1)

Walking with God does not mean walking physically with Him.

Confusion with Ilyasas

Some commentators have said that Idrisas is actually Elijah, as it is believed that Elijah (Ilyasas of the Holy Quran) was also taken up to heaven. Regarding the advent of the Messiah, it was reported that before his coming, Elijah the prophet would descend from heaven. Some hypothesised that Elijah was meant by Idris due to this one similarity mentioned above. However, Huzoorra explained, such people who hold this notion were very few and even this idea was wrong because the name of Ilyas appeared in the Holy Quran. So, it was unreasonable to mention Ilyas by any other name. Either the Arabs were unable to pronounce Ilyas, then it could be said that Idris means Ilyas in this place, but when the name of Ilyas was already used by the Holy Quran, it’s certainly wrong to take Ilyas to be Idris.

Steadfastness; a common quality found in Prophets

One thing, along with many others, that differentiates normal human beings from noble men is the act of patience. All Prophets of God have in their lives exhibited various good qualities, with patience and being steadfast being a common quality. Allah states in the Holy Quran:

“And [remember] Ishmael, and Idris, and Dhul-Kifl. All were of the steadfast.” (Surah al-Anbiya, Ch.21: V.86)

In the Five Volume Commentary, we read, in light of Prophet Idrisas:

“The Prophet Idris had to face a virulent campaign of denunciation and calumny by his people and he suffered all that abuse with great patience.” (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 2114)

100 Years Ago...

Tabligh tours to Michigan, North Dakota and Minnesota, new converts and missionary epistles

The Moslem Sunrise, January 1923

Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra (1872-1957)

During the last quarter [of the year 1922], I have been very busy, invited to many places outseide the city (in the States of North Dakota, Minnesota and Michigan) to deliver lectures on Islam.

[Talk on Islam in Michigan]

On 27 November last, I was honored by the Exchange Club of Grand Haven, Michigan, as the guest of the club at a banquet attended by a large gathering of ladies and gentlemen. I was introduced to the members by the president [of the club], Mr John Hoffman, before the dinner. And after the dinner and music, which was played by a local toy musical band, I was asked to give a talk on Islam. While introducing me for the talk, the chairman remarked: “We are used to hearing of our missionaries going to India, but here is something extraordinary, a missionary sent by the Indians to preach their religion to the Americans.”

I spoke amid applauses and cheers for about an hour and a quarter on what Islam is, and what it is not; in what it agrees with Christianity and in what it differs; jehad; polygamy; genuinity of the Quran, which is not found in the present Bible; continuation of revelation, and the Prophet of the Day –Ahmadas

When I finished my lecture, four clergymen got up one after the other to ask questions, which were ordinary, and were answered to the satisfaction of the majority of the audience.

I am thankful to Mr Joe Negen for his hospitality and for arranging for my appearance before such an intelligent group of people who gave me their undivided attention, and who showed their expressions of appreciation in many ways.

[North Dakota]

I very much enjoyed lecturing and my visit in and near Ross and Stanley, North Dakota, for which I ask Allah to pour His blessings on Mr SM George, Hessen Husain Jaha BA, Farhat, Omar Brothers and others.

[Lecture in Minnesota]

In Crookston, Minnesota, I was invited by the Superintendent of the State Farm School to give a talk on Islam in the school hall. The lecture was announced in the local papers, and therefore, in addition to the students and teacher, there were also present some citizens of the little town too. I spoke for an hour on Islam, and the chairman, thanking

me for the speech, said: “All I knew of Muhammedanism before this was that the Muhammadans worshipped Muhammad and killed the Christians, but today I have learned the real facts and I am thankful for it.”

[Letter from Abas and Heider]

Brothers, Abas and Heider wrote me in their letter of 11 November 1922:

“The day after you left for St. Paul city, there were a number of people [who] called over the telephone and inquired about you. When we informed them that you had left

for the cities, they were very disappointed, as they all wanted to have a talk with you. However, we tried to satisfy them by telling them that you would come back here again some time.

“We must say that your lecture out at the State Farm was very much appreciated, as people are all talking about it and had planned to have you speak again in some building. They all say that it was a wonderful Oriental talk and they only wish that you would have stayed longer and given another lecture.”

[Press]

Below we give the article that was printed in the Crookston Daily Times:

“Visitor from India visits

Crookston

“Dr Mufti Muhammad Sadiq of India is visiting with Messrs. Abas and Heider at 419 North Broadway for a few days, arriving in the city yesterday from a lecture tour, in North Dakota. The visitor is a Moslem missionary.

“Dr Sadiq is the editor of the Moslem Sunrise, a magazine published at Chicago and widely circulated in northern Minnesota and North Dakota. He is the first Moslem preacher to be sent to America by the Ahmadia movement from India. His headquarters and church (The Mosque) are located in Chicago.

“Dr Sadiq is a man of wide travels and many experiences. He is able to speak seven languages fluently and has a wonderful command of English, which he acquired while attending the Indian universities and later schools in England.”

[Saint Paul]

I enjoyed my very short visit of three days to St. Paul on account of the luxurious hospitality of Messrs. Ajoon and Kaderies, who managed for my stay in the St. Paul Hotel. The editors of the local papers and some of the celebrities of the city visited me in the hotel to seek information on Islam and the Ahmadia movement.

[Lectures in Detroit and new converts]

I delivered five lectures at the UNIA [Universal Negro Improvement Association] meetings in Detroit, Michigan, and secured about forty new converts to Islam. Out of the converts there, an intelligent and enthusiastic young man, Rev. Sutton, has been appointed as the leader of that congregation, with his Moslem name as Sheik Abdus Salaam. Another zealous member of ours there is Mrs Wright (Sister Nazeefa), who, together with her little children, is studiously learning the Arabic language.

Sister Rahatullah is still doing her very good work in Highland Park, Detroit.

I am much obliged to Mr and Mrs Thaha, Mr and Mrs MS Zaher, Mr Muftizadada Ali Riza Effendi, and Mr and Mrs Adaree for their hospitality during my recent visit to Detroit, Michigan.

Rev BD Sutton (Sheik Abdus Salaam)

of Detroit, Sheik Ahmad Din of St. Louis, Missouri, Brother Yousaf (Mr Joseph), Sister Saeeda in Gary. Indiana, and Sister Amina (Mrs Anne Brooks) of Chicago Heights, have been busy in their places convincing the people of the truth of Islam, and have been successful in converting many to the Blessed Fold.

[Weekly meetings]

Our regular weekly meetings are now held every Sunday morning at 11 o’clock in our Mission House. Three rooms are joined together for the purpose, and some sit on the staircase, but still, many have to stand for want of accommodation. The meeting is started with two rakaat of prayers in the Mosque to teach the new converts the Islamic mode of worship. Friday meetings are held, as usual, in the house of Mrs V Clark (Sister Ayesha).

[Thanks]

Thanks are due to Manager Picture Hall, Stanley; Superintendent Farm School, Crookston; Secretary Turkish Cafe Hall, Detroit; President UNIA, Detroit; Exchange Club, Grand Haven; Attorney H Wilcox; Lady Marion, President Chicago West African Woman’s Club, and others for allowing me to use their halls and churches for lectures and talks on Islam.

I am much obliged to Mr James Sodick, Sister Ahmadia and other members in Chicago for carrying on the work as usual during the days of my absence from the headquarters.

Missionary epistles

Missionary epistles were written on behalf of the Ahmadia Order in America and literature was mailed to many celebrities all over the world, including:

1. Mr Shapurji Saklatvala, congratulating him on his being elected a member of the British Parliament;

2. Mr Bonar Law on his being appointed by His Majesty the King as Prime Minister. (The Prime Minister acknowledging this epistle has expressed his appreciation in his letter to me, dated 14 November 1922).

Honorable Shapurji Saklatvala MP, in reply to my epistle mentioned above, writes as follows:

“Chapel House, New Broad St., London, EC 2. 29 November 1922.

Dear Dr Sadiq:

I thank you for your kind message of the 16th instant.

I am afraid I am not in a position to make any benevolent promises for the freedom of Hindustan, because I firmly believe that until people begin to understand and realize that the lowest class of working men have got the same rights as the highest class of rich men or educated persons, there is no salvation for anybody.

(Sd.) Shapurji Saklatwala.”

(Transcribed by Al Hakam from the original, published in The Moslem Sunrise, January 1923)

West Coast USA Jalsa Salana 2022

Ahsan Mahmood Khan Afsar Jalsa Gah

The 35th West Coast Jalsa Salana USA took place from 23 to 25 December 2022 at the Baitul Hameed Mosque in Chino, California, which is situated about 30 miles east of Los Angeles.

Over 1,500 Ahmadi Muslims from throughout the country, but primarily the 11 chapters of the Western states, attended the Jalsa, which first started in 1985 to cater to the many Ahmadis living in the western parts of the country but has now attained some international flavour due to it being live streamed this year via MTA USA Studio to over 5,600 viewers.

The theme of this year’s Jalsa Salana was the Promised Messiah’sas revelation, “كعم ي ا

م ای” [Surely, I am with you, O Masroor], highlighting common themes gleaned from the various Friday Sermons and addresses delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during his recent historic tour of the United States in September and October of the year 2022

Sahibzada Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jamaat USA, hoisted the Liwae-Ahmadiyyat to open the Jalsa Salana. The opening session, presided over by Dr Hamid ur Rahman Sahib, Naib Amir USA, featured a talk on the existence of God, delivered by Sabahat Ali Sahib, a missionary of Silicon Valley.

Later in the evening, a special guest session was held, in which over 175 guests, including faith leaders, lawmakers and community neighbours, attended. Asif Arif Sahib moderated the guest event and invited local leaders to deliver short addresses, including Eloise Reyes, California State Assemblywoman, Bill Assayli, California

State Assemblyman, and Frank Garcia, the Mayor of Maywood, California. They all expressed their appreciation for the services to the community provided by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.

The missionary-in-charge and Naib Amir USA, Azhar Haneef Sahib, delivered a speech entitled “A Universal Message of Peace”, in which he highlighted the message of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered in Dallas on 11 October 2022 warning the world of a Third World War and the pathway to avert global war through the promotion of peace. A print booklet of the address was provided to all guests.

Saturday morning speeches this year covered a variety of topics, including the importance of reciting and reflecting on the Holy Quran, delivered by Sardar Anees Ahmad Sahib; the blessed example of the Holy Prophetsa in worshipping Allah, delivered by Waqas Nazir Sahib; the prayer duel between the Promised Messiahas and John Alexander Dowie, delivered by Absar Alam Sahib; and the life of Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira, delivered by Ibrahim Ahmed Sahib.

The combined Saturday afternoon session featured speeches themed around Khilafat, including how attachment to Khilafat protects from social evils, delivered by Usman Jamil Sahib; and how success lies in obedience to Khilafat, delivered by Salman Shaikh Sahib, a missionary of Phoenix. A speech on the Islamic concepts of reformation and forgiveness was delivered by Qudus Malik Sahib, Sadr Darul Qadha USA.

The ladies’ separate session included speeches on the importance of Wasiyyat, delivered by Dr Amatul Mujeeb Sahiba; the Promised Messiah’s love for the Holy

Prophetsa by Maleha Awan Sahiba; the Promised Messiah’s prophecy about Dowie, by Nicole Williams Sahiba; and obedience to Khilafat, by Ramla Shabir Sahiba.

Sadr Lajna Imaillah USA, Dhiya Tahira Bakr Sahiba delivered the final speech of the session, on emulating the wives of the Holy Prophetsa in the 21st century.

In the concluding Sunday session, Malik Tariq Mahmood Sahib, a missionary of Los Angeles, delivered an Urdu speech on raising children in the West, and Ehtishamul Haq Mahmood Kauser Sahib, another missionary of Los Angeles, gave a speech on holding fast to the rope of Allah as an Ahmadi Muslim. Sahibzada Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jamaat USA, delivered an address on the Promised Messiah’sas kindness towards all of mankind.

This year, Jalsa Salana Qadian took place on the exact same dates. The concluding address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa from the United Kingdom was replayed on recording in the Jalsa Gah and on live stream to close the final session. This was a unique aspect of this year’s West Coast Jalsa Salana and the highlight of the entire event by the grace of Allah.

MTA USA ran live on-site interviews throughout the Jalsa and the entire Jalsa was live-streamed on YouTube and on the official Jalsa Salana website. Spanish live translation of all speeches was also provided by the Spanish Desk.

Additional programmes were held by the tabligh, waqf-e-nau and nau-mubai‘een departments, along with the Ahmadiyya Association of Muslim Scientists. This year, an Amin ceremony (a formal recognition of the completion of the first reading of the Holy Quran) was conducted by the national talim-ul-Quran department, in which several boys and girls participated.

This year’s Jalsa Salana featured new additions, including a large stand-alone exhibition on the existence of God hosted by The Review of Religions, called “The Existence Project”, and a Meet and Greet room run by the rishta nata department to facilitate the introduction of families in a prearranged fashion. Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya USA hosted the MKA Hub where Khuddam and Atfal could enjoy games like air hockey and table tennis and also enjoy the onsite cafe.

The size of the Jalsa Gah tents was enhanced this year, and a separate children›s marquee was installed. Additional portable washrooms were also present. The langar food marquee for men and women was also more spacious than prior conventions, and a new registration portal system was also debuted.

The West Coast Jalsa Salana returned this year after a two-year pause due to the global pandemic. Special Covid-19 precautions were maintained, including a masking policy.

100 Years Ago...

Meeting the Emir of Kano: “His Majesty salutes you”

Al Fazl, 1 January 1923

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)

Meeting the Resident [British government official] of Kano

On the morning of 23 August [1922], I went to meet the Resident of Kano, [Nigeria]. When he received the card, he immediately asked me to come inside. He met me with great respect, warmth and love. As before my arrival, Mr Lieutenant Governor had already written to him about me and also sent some literature, therefore only a casual acquaintance was needed. He was already well-informed. Honourable Mr EJ Arnett developed a warm and friendly relationship in the very first meeting. We had a long conversation. On the telephone, he arranged my meeting with the Emir of Kano and the visit to the Government School. (I had to postpone my earlier tour because the road was not navigable due to Katsina’s heavy rains.) Mr Arnett told me that he had translated the teachings of the Jamaat into the Hausa language and presented them to the Emir. He liked the teaching but wanted to hear from me about the Death of Prophet Jesusas and Jihad in person.

Mr Arnett then enquired as to what the need was for sending money to Qadian and it was quite possible that one day some kind of foreign domination would be established over his people. I replied that Allah had already prevented that from happening as religion and government had been separated. Roman Catholic Christians are under the Pope. Money is sent to Rome but they have nothing to do with the government. India is still under the British Empire and sensible Indians do not want to separate India from the United Nations Democracy of the Great British Empire.

I explained the answer to this question with many other arguments as well, but one must observe how the authorities keep an eye on even the most insignificant things.

Second speech

On the evening of 23 August [1922], a large number of people gathered and I presented the comparative analysis of Christianity and Islam. The Hausa people started chanting slogans of “Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam” [Peace be upon him]. The Hausa interpreter, Mu‘alim Dawood, is a very intelligent person and has a very loud voice.

After the speech, a Christian boy began to ask questions that his father, who is a priest in Kano, had helped him memorise. All the questions were answered. The audience, who were witnessing Christians being competed for the first time, were overjoyed. I foresaw that this boy would surely question whether Jesus was the

son of God. Thus, I kept calling him “my child” and “my son”. When he came to the question that was implanted in his mind, the interpreter on my signal read these passages from the Hausa Bible: John 10:34, Psalms 82:6, Jeremiah 31:9 and Exodus 4:22, etc. Subsequently, the words “my child” and “my son” were explained to the questioner. It is the blessing of Allah that the purpose I had in mind was fulfilled.

Meeting the Emir of Kano

There are some moments in a man’s life that are very happy and blessed. I never had such an opportunity before that I got on 24 August [1922]. I met the chiefs of the Gold Coast. I met the king of Ibukota and preached to the former king of Lagos. I shook hands with the king of Iran in the royal palace. I preached to the Emir of Zaria in his palace. However, the joy and happiness that I felt after meeting the king of Kano was unparalleled.

On the evening of 23 August [1922], before my speech, the official rider brought an urgent letter to me, which, according to the rider, was not allowed to be given to anyone else. I took the letter and read it. The text [of the letter] was as follows:

“Sir, I respectfully inform you that the Honorable Emir of Kano will meet you at 8 o’clock in the morning at his royal residence in the city of Kano. Since the city is far from the new town [Sabon Gari], the Honourable Emir’s car will come to pick you up at your house. After the meeting, I am arranging your visit to the Government School.

Yours truly,

I am your most obedient servant, District Officer.”

Departure to Kano

At 7:30 in the morning, the car arrived at my residence as promised. I took the required books and the interpreter with me and left with them in the car. At about half a mile from the gate of the city, the head officer of Emir’s special cavalry came in full Hausa uniform and seeing him, the driver stopped the car. He dismounted from his horse and got down on his knees, and in this manner, he conveyed the Emir’s greetings to me. Then he mounted and rode ahead of the car as the leader of the vanguard. The buildings of the entire city are made of mud and clay. The city is surrounded by a huge, solid wall. The resident said that the population of the city and suburbs under the Emir is two million. As we entered the city gates, we were greeted by the Emir’s police, wearing red turbans with green, red, and white striped robes, and carrying old-fashioned swords. The car arrived at the entrance of the royal palace and the people were chanting “zaaki”. The servants of the Emir raised a slogan in the Hausa language, which means “Welcome”. Then, I got off the car.

Royal palace

Now, I was at the first entrance of the royal palace and the private secretary along with his assistants were standing in front of me, saying welcoming words in the Hausa language. Before me were clay walls, mud arches, and royal officials in loose clothing. However, it seemed that it was the residence of a king. The private secretary along with his assistants led the way and after going a good distance, another entrance came and people shouted, “Waziri agashe ka!” i.e., “The Prime Minister greets you!” The ministers of the Emir and their assistants were present at this entrance. After the formal greetings and inquiries about the well-being, they proceeded further and brought me to the first floor of the royal palace. It was clear from the admiration and respect of the people and a kind of awe and glory that we were in close proximity to a king. Suddenly a slogan was raised. This slogan was raised by the special assistants of the Emir’s palace. Consequently, a poor Punjabi mother’s son was standing in front of the elderly king of Kano. The honourable Emir personally came to the entrance to welcome me. The kind of reception I was given is only reserved for the Governor of Nigeria. A silver royal sceptre was in Emir’s hand. His dress had silver threadwork. On his head was a crown decorated with bright silver. Before the words of “as-salamu ‘alaykum”, royal assistants said, “Siriki agashe ka!” The spokesman translated it as follows:

“His Majesty salutes you!”

The Emir of Kano entered the palace ahead of us after the formal salutations,

handshakes, and greetings. The people sitting on the ground also greeted us. The ministers walked with me. The people of the court were singing songs of the greatness of the host and the guest in eastern style.

Special court

We entered the special royal court, which was a circular room with a cement floor. A special carpet was laid for me. There was a special chair on the carpet. Emir came to the throne. The ministers sat on the carpet, the courtiers were standing at a distance, and my spokesman and secretary stood behind me. Then, I presented the gifts, i.e., the book, Khutba Ilhamiyah [the Revealed Sermon] and Panipat rice with Surah Ikhlas and سیلا ہدبع فاکب ہللا written on them. The honourable Emir happily accepted the gifts. He put the rice grains in his pocket and handed over the book to his minister.

Tabligh in the royal palace

I then mentioned the purpose of my visit and presented the teachings and works of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. I showed the photographs of the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa from the book, A Present to the Prince of Wales. Then, I showed the pictures of the Promised Messiahas and Dowie, and presented the newspapers and books of the Jamaat and mentioned the claim of the Promised Messiahas. I explained in detail the death of Prophet Jesusas, signs of Mahdi, Gog Magog, Dabatul Arz, etc. The ministers, the imam, clerics of the court and especially the Prime Minister, asked a lot of questions. I replied in Arabic and it was interpreted into the Hausa language. I was surprised at how I continued to talk continuously in Arabic for almost half an hour and that too in front of scholars in the royal court. Hausa scholars are in no way inferior to Indians in their scholarly standing. However, they are not as corrupt as the Indian clerics. It was the sheer grace of Allah the Almighty, and Zakaria, my interpreter, was very surprised. Hence, the conversation continued for two hours in the Emir’s court and finally, I stood up and addressed the Emir, the ministers, the imam, and the people of the court and conveyed the true message of Islam Ahmadiyyat. I announced that the Promised Khalifa, the Rightful Mahdi-eMaud, and the Promised Messiah, appeared in the personage of Hazrat Syedna Ahmadas, and that everyone should believe in him and be blessed. [I said]:

غلبلا الا انیلع امو

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 1 January 1923 issue of Al Fazl)

“And on us lies only the delivery of the Message.” […]

Friday Sermon

Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, UK, 9 December 2022

Men of Excellence: Hazrat Abu Bakrra

At the end of the last Friday Sermon, I presented some quotes of the Promised Messiahas about Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra. I will present further extracts of the Promised Messiahas in this regard.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Without doubt, Abu Bakr Siddiq and Umar Faruq were indeed the leaders of the caravan that surmounted high peaks for the sake of Allah. They called the people of cities and villages to the truth until the message reached far and wide. The fruits of Islam blossomed during both of their Khilafats, the atmosphere was filled with their fragrance, and Islam achieved great victories. During the era of Siddiq-e-Akbar [Hazrat Abu Bakrra], Islam underwent a period of various kinds of trials and it was possible that it may become the target of mighty onslaughts and attacks. Allah came to its rescue through the truthfulness of Abu Bakr and revealed its lost and buried treasure. Islam thus moved from a vulnerable state to one of strength. If we are to be fair, we should be grateful to this helper of faith and pay no heed to his opponents. Do not turn your back on the one who supported your Leader and Mastersa and saved your religion and home, and who looked after your welfare for the sake of Allah without expecting any reward. It is amazing how anyone can deny his eminence. The truth is that his radiant attributes shine brilliantly like the sun. Every believer reaps from the harvest that was sown by him and benefits from the knowledge taught by him. He preserved our faith by giving us the Holy Quran [in the form of a compiled book] and bringing peace and security to our world. He who denies this is a liar and will end up ruined, and will be in the company of Satan.”

The Promised Messiahas continues, “Those who are confused about his true status are guilty of a deliberate error, as they see a drought in the place of abundant water. In their rage, they have insulted the most honourable one.”

The Promised Messiahas further states, “The personality of as-Siddiq was a combination of hope and fear, trepidation and longing, sympathy and love. His nature was perfect in sincerity and loyalty and was completely drawn towards the Almighty. He was empty of ego and of all carnal desires. He was dedicated to God to the highest degree. Whatever he did was for the sake of the reformation and welfare of the believers. He was innocent of the charge of causing

harm or grief, which some attribute to him. Do not dwell on internal conflicts, therefore, and look at them in a positive light. Reflect that this man, seeking Allah’s pleasure, gave no precedence to his own sons and daughters to make them rich, nor did he

assign to them high offices. He sought from this world only his basic needs. How can you think that such a person would oppress the family of the Messengersa of Allah?” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 79-82)

Then, the Promised Messiahas states:

“May Allah have mercy on as-Siddiq as he revived Islam, put an end to the infidels, and perpetuated his virtues until the Day of Judgement. He was inclined to shed tears frequently and was of the virtuous. He would supplicate, pray and prostrate before

After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

Allah, crying and humbling himself on His doorstep. He never left Allah’s door and was ever eager to offer prayers in prostration. He would weep while reciting the Quran. He was undoubtedly the pride of Islam and the Messengers. His nature closely resembled the nature of the Best of Creation. He was among the first to partake of the fragrance of prophethood and to witness the great revival of the dead brought by the Holy Prophetsa that was akin to the Day of Resurrection. He was among the foremost to shed the dirty garbs of society and replace them with clean and pure ones. Many of his qualities were like those of the Prophets.

“He [Hazrat Abu Bakr] is the only Companion who is clearly mentioned in the Holy Quran. Any allusion to others is a matter of conjecture, which avails nothing against the truth, and does not satisfy those who seek the truth. Whoever holds a grudge against him creates a barrier between himself and the truth, and it will not be removed until he returns to the Leader of the Truthful.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 99-100)

Then, the Promised Messiahas states: “As for as-Siddiq, he was always seeking the munificence of Allah and looking towards God’s Messengersa. Therefore, he was the most deserving of the qualities of prophethood and most eligible to be the successor to the Best of Mankind. He was one with his leader and always in accord with him. He was the manifestation of his master in all his higher morals, in his conduct and in the forsaking of the associations and the desires of the ego, so much so, that he did not waver even when attacked by swords and spears. He never faltered in the face of any calamity, intimidation, blame, or vilification. The essence of his soul was honesty, purity, steadfastness, and righteousness, such that even if the whole world turned apostate, he would not care or turn back, but would continue to march forward.

“For this reason, Allah has mentioned the Truthful immediately after mentioning the Prophets, as He said:

Translation], pp. 104-107)

Then, the Promised Messiahas states: “Ibn Khaldun states that when the Holy Prophet’ssa illness worsened and he fell into a state of unconsciousness, his wives and other family members such as Abbas and Ali gathered around him. Then, when it came time for prayer, the Holy Prophetsa instructed, ‘tell Abu Bakr that he should lead the people in prayer.’” (Tarikh Ibn Khaldun, Part 2, p. 62.)

The Promised Messiahas further states, “Ibn Khaldun says that then, after stating three things as part of his will, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘aside from Abu Bakr’sra door to the mosque, all other doors should be closed because I have found none among the Companions to be greater in favours than Abu Bakr.’” (Tarikh Ibn Khaldun, Part 2, p. 62.)

Then, the Promised Messiahas states: “Ibn Khaldun writes — When Abu Bakr entered the room in which the body of the Messengersa of Allah lay, he uncovered his face, kissed his forehead and said: ‘Let my mother and father be sacrificed for you; you have tasted the death which Allah decreed for you, and you will never taste death ever again.’” (Tarikh Ibn Khaldun, Part 2, p. 62.)

The Promised Messiahas continues: “According to Ibn Khaldun — one of the favours Allah bestowed on Hazrat Abu Bakr in terms of his complete nearness to the Holy Prophetsa was that he, may Allah be pleased with him, was carried in the same coffin that had carried the Messengersa of Allah and his grave was made flat like the grave of the Holy Prophetsa, and the companions made his grave adjacent to the grave of the Holy Prophetsa and his head was laid level with the shoulder of the Holy Prophetsa. The last words he spoke were: ‘Let death come to me in a state of being a Muslim and join me with the righteous.’” (Tarikh Ibn Khaldun, p. 176) (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 189-190, Footnote)

this matter has intrigued me as far back as I can remember, and I had long resolved to thoroughly investigate its every aspect and to think over it deeply.”

He further states: “Therefore, I was keen to seek out every piece of information and to inquire about every authentic account regarding this issue. “I found as-Siddiq to be truthful, as was made clear to me after my research. When I found him to be the leader of Imams and the lamp of the Religion and Ummah, I held fast to him and entered his fortress. I attracted the mercy of my Lord by loving the righteous. Allah the Most Merciful thus had mercy on me, gave me refuge, assisted me, nourished me and made me one of the honoured ones. Out of His mercy, He made me the Reformer of this century, the Promised Messiah, and of those whom He blesses with His discourse. He removed my grief and gave me what no one in the world was ever given. All this is owing to the blessing of following the Holy Prophet, the immaculate one, and loving those who are granted nearness to Allah. O Allah, bless and prosper the Best of the Messengers and Khatamul-Anbiya’ [the Seal of the Prophets], Muhammad, who is the Best of all Mankind.

“By Allah, Abu Bakr was the Holy Prophet’ssa constant companion in the two holy cities and in the two tombs as well. Here I refer, firstly, to the ‘tomb’ of the cave wherein he concealed himself as if he were dead, and, secondly, to the tomb that is in Madinah, which is adjacent to the tomb of Khairul-Bariyyah [i.e. the Best of Creation — the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa]. Think, therefore, of the [high] status of as-Siddiq if you are a people who reflect. Allah has praised him and his Khilafat in the Quran and praised him in the highest terms. There is no doubt that he is accepted and loved by Allah. Foolish is the one who begrudges his status. The impurity that infected Islam was wiped away by his Khilafat.”

intercession of those beloved ones. O Allah, Lord of favours and bounties, accept this from me. You are the Most Merciful of those who show mercy.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 185-187, Footnote)

Then, the Promised Messiahas states:

“Keep the example of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra before you at all times. Think about the time of the Holy Prophetsa when the Quraish were bent on mischief on all fronts and the disbelievers hatched conspiracies to kill the Holy Prophetsa. This era was a most trying one. In such a time, the manner in which Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra fulfilled his commitment to friendship is an example unparalleled in our world. Such strength and resilience is impossible without faith. All of you who are seated before me now ought to reflect that if today, a trial of this nature were to fall upon you, how many of you would stand by me? Or for example, what if the government began to investigate one by one the people who have sworn allegiance to me. How many of you would bravely say that they are among my followers? I am aware that some of you would lose the feeling in your hands and feet, and they would immediately begin to think about their properties and relatives, and how they would have to part with them.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “To stand by in times of difficulty is the sign of those who are true in faith. Hence, until a person practically instils faith within themselves, nothing can be achieved, for, until such a time, a person’s excuses will have no end. When the people are actually faced with a trial, there are few who prove firm. The disciples of the Messiah abandoned him and fled in his last hours when he was confronted with misfortune, and some even cursed him to his face.”

“‘They shall be among those on whom Allah has bestowed His blessings, namely, the Prophets, the Truthful, the Martyrs, and the Righteous.” (4:70)]

“In this verse, there is a reference to Hazrat Abu Bakrra and his excellence over others, because the Holy Prophetsa did not call any other Companion ‘the Truthful’ except Abu Bakr, and he did so in order to highlight his lofty status. Reflect on this, like those are wont to reflect. In this verse, seekers of the truth can find a principle regarding the stations of spiritual excellence and the people who belong to them.

“When I reflected on this verse, I realised that it is the greatest testimony to the perfection of as-Siddiq. In this verse, a deep secret has been revealed to every seeker of truth: Hazrat Abu Bakrra was named ‘asSiddiq’ [the Truthful] by the Messenger of Allah, and in this verse, the Quran has linked the Truthful to the Prophets, as is obvious to those who possess insight. We cannot find any other Companion who has been granted this title or addressed in a similar way. This proves the excellence of asSiddiq as this title is mentioned immediately after the Prophets.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu

Then, the Promised Messiahas states: “Abu Bakrra was a genius and a godly person. He manifested the light of Islam after it had become encroached upon by darkness. He did his utmost to challenge those who left Islam, and to combat those who denied the truth. On the other hand, he was soft-hearted and lenient with those who entered its fold. He endured great difficulties in order to spread Islam. He gave mankind a precious and matchless treasure. He led the Arabs with fortitude and taught them civility and the mannerisms in their eating, drinking and gatherings. He showed them the paths of virtue and instilled courage and passion in them when engaged in wars. Despite witnessing a state of despair among those around him, he went forth to battle, challenged every disputer and did not give in to doubt like the weak. In every trial and ordeal, he proved to be more steadfast than Koh-e-Radwa (a mountain in Medina). He destroyed anyone who falsely claimed to be a prophet. He forsook the desires of the world for the sake of Allah, the Most High. The only thing that pleased him was to uphold the word of Islam and follow Khairul-Anam [the Best of Mankind]. Therefore, hold fast to the protector of your religion – Hazrat Abu Bakrra – and leave aside your objections and doubts.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“I do not say this out of my own desires or in imitation of my forefathers, rather,

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“The felicity of Muslims became complete due to his compassion. The pillar of Islam would well have crumbled, had asSiddiq, the friend of the Best of Mankind, not been present. He found Islam like a weak person — sick and emaciated and barely in his senses, so he rose to restore its beauty and splendour in a masterful way and hastened to revive the lost Islam until it had regained the agility of its body, the softness of its cheeks, the charm of its beauty, and the sweetness of its pure water. All this came to pass because of the truth of this honest servant of God. He defeated the enemy and turned the situation around. He never sought any reward for this; his reward was only with Allah. No day or night rose upon him except that he was engaged in this service. He restored the broken remains, put an end to the sufferings, and protected the land. The victory was always his because of the grace and mercy of Allah. I will now put forward some evidence, placing my trust in the One God, to show you how Hazrat Abu Bakr ended the terrible seditions and the dangerous tribulations and how he put an end to the warmongers. His hidden inner self was made manifest for all to see through his actions, and his actions bore witness to his high qualities. May Allah reward him for this with the best reward and resurrect him along with the most pious ones. May He have mercy on us through the

The Promised Messiahas further states: “[…] In short, the truth and sincerity of Abu Bakr Siddiqra came to light at a time when the Holy Prophetsa was surrounded by his assailants. Although some of them were of the opinion that he should merely be banished from Mecca, most of them actually sought to put an end to his life. It was at that hour that Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra demonstrated his sincerity and loyalty, which will shine as an example until the end of time. In this trying hour, the very selection of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is a powerful argument in favour of the excellence and supreme loyalty of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra. For example, if the Viceroy of India were to choose someone for an important task, the opinion of the Viceroy would be better and more judicious than, say, a local watchman. It must be accepted, therefore, that the selection of the Viceroy is, in any case, better suited and more appropriate. For the government has appointed him as a deputy ruler, and has put its trust in his loyalty, farsightedness and experience. It is then that the government handed over to him the reins of authority. It would, thus, be inappropriate to disregard the Viceroy’s effective management and sound judgement, and take the choice of an ordinary watchman to be more correct.

“This is also the case with the selection of the Holy Prophetsa. At that time, the Holy Prophetsa had seventy or eighty companions, and even Hazrat Alira was with him, but from all of these companions, the Holy Prophetsa chose none other than Hazrat Abu

Bakrra. What is the secret to this? The fact is that a Prophet sees through the eye of God Almighty, and his insight comes from God Almighty. Therefore, Allah the Exalted had informed the Holy Prophetsa by means of vision and revelation that the best and most appropriate person for this task was Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra

“Hazrat Abu Bakrra accompanied the Holy Prophetsa in this difficult hour. This was a time of perilous trial.”

The Promised Messiahas states: “[…] Therefore, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra stood by the Holy Prophetsa and gave him full support, and when they reached a cave known as the Cave of Thaur, they both took refuge in the cave. The evil disbelievers who had conspired to harm the Holy Prophetsa were led to this cave in their search. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra submitted to the Holy Prophetsa: ‘Now, these people are upon us, and if any one of them looks down even slightly, they will be able to see us, and we shall be apprehended.’ At that time, the Holy Prophetsa said:

“Meaning, ‘Do not fear in the least, for Allah the Exalted is with us’ (9:40). Reflect on these words. The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, joins Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra with himself and states:

“[Verily, Allah is with us. (9:40)]

“The Arabic words ma’ana include both of them, i.e. ‘with you and I.’ Allah the Exalted placed the Holy Prophetsa on one side and Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra on the other (there are two parts of a scale and Allah the Almighty placed the Holy Prophetsa on one side and Hazrat Abu Bakrra on the other).

“At that time, both of them were in a state of trial. For it was at this point in time when the foundation of Islam was either going to be secured or brought to an end.

“The enemy stood at the mouth of the cave and various opinions were being voiced. Some said that the cave ought to be searched because the footprints ended at the cave, while others pointed out that it was impossible for a person to pass through here and enter the cave as a spider had woven a web at the mouth of the cave and a dove had laid its eggs. These discussions could be heard from within the cave and the Holy Prophetsa could also hear them clearly. In this state of affairs, the enemy had come to kill them both and had set out with immense vigour to complete their task, but just observe the remarkable courage of the Holy Prophetsa, who says to his true friend:

“[Grieve not, for Allah is with us. (9:40)]

“These words evidently demonstrate that the Holy Prophetsa said the aforementioned phrase with his tongue, because such words could only be expressed with a voice and not through sign language. The enemy stood outside consulting amongst themselves, and inside the cave, both servant and master were also engaged in discourse. The Holy Prophetsa had no concern that the enemy would hear his voice and this is proof of his remarkable faith and his insight into Allah the Exalted. It demonstrates that he had full trust in the promises of God Almighty. This

one example alone is enough to show the bravery of the Holy Prophetsa [...] In addition to the account just mentioned, there is another incident that bears testimony to the bravery of Abu Bakr Siddiqra as well.

“When the Holy Prophetsa passed away, Hazrat Umarra came forth, sword in hand, and said, ‘I shall kill anyone who says that the Holy Prophetsa, has died.’ In these circumstances, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra spoke with remarkable bravery and courage; he stood up and delivered an address. He recited the following verse of the Holy Quran: لسرلا هلبق نم تلخ دق ٞلوسر الإ دمحم ام

Meaning, Muhammadsa, is only a Messenger of Allah the Almighty, and all the Prophets that have gone by before him, have all passed away (3:145). It was on this that emotion subsided. After this, the Arab nomads apostatised. Hazrat Aishara, describes these delicate times and says, ‘When the Messengersa of Allah, passed away, a number of false claimants to prophethood came forth. Some abandoned the prayer and the circumstances changed completely. In this state of affairs and in this calamity, my father became the Caliph and succeeded the Holy Prophetsa. My father was faced with such griefs that if they had descended upon the mountains, they would have crumbled.’

“Now reflect, it is not the work of any ordinary man to stand firm with courage and resolve when overwhelmed with mountains of grief. This steadfastness requires a love for truth and sincerity (sidq) and it was this Truthful One (Siddiq), known as Abu Bakrra who demonstrated this quality. It was impossible for any other person to confront these perils. All the companions were present at the time, but not a single one of them said that they were more deserving of the office of Caliphate, for they could see that a fire was ablaze around them. Who could have been willing to cast themselves into this fire? In these circumstances, Hazrat Umarra extended his hand and swore his allegiance to Hazrat Abu Bakrra, after which everyone, one after the other, swore their allegiance as well. It was the sincerity (sidq) of Hazrat Abu Bakrra that suppressed the uprising and put an end to the rebels. Musailimah had an army of 100,000 and he taught a religious ideology that removed them from divine law. When people saw his teachings of non-conformity, they entered his religion in large numbers. However, God Almighty clearly demonstrated that He was with Hazrat Abu Bakrra and eased all of his travails.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 1, pp. 374379)

In another instance, the Promised Messiahas said:

“For my part, no one can be a true Muslim unless they adopt the attributes and qualities of Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali, may Allah be pleased with them all. They did not love this world and instead placed themselves entirely at the service of God.” (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Lecture Ludhiana, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p. 294)

The Promised Messiahas then says:

“I swear in the name of Allah that asSiddiq was the man whom Allah had blessed with many mantles of distinction. Allah Himself is witness to the fact that Abu Bakr was one of His chosen ones. He praised him

and said that he was a man who could tolerate separation from his nearest ones but would not bear to be parted from the Chosen One of God. Hazrat Abu Bakr gave precedence to his Master and came hastening towards him and happily endured every difficulty and distanced himself from all inner desires. When the Messengersa of Allah asked him to accompany him on his migration, he did not hesitate even for a second. When the Meccans resolved to drive the Holy Prophet out of his home, he came to Abu Bakr and said, ‘I have been commanded to migrate with you as my companion. We should leave this place together.’ Hearing this, as-Siddiq rendered thanks to Allah for choosing him as the companion of the Holy Prophet in this time of great danger. In fact, he had been waiting for the opportunity to be of service to the Prophet, and the moment had finally come. He stood by his Master, bearing every hardship and showing no fear of the murderous plot of the assassins. His superiority is a fact established by clear judgements and manifest verses. Indeed, all evidence points to his excellence. As to his truthfulness, it is as apparent as daylight. He earnestly sought the blessings of the Hereafter and abandoned the pleasures of this world. None after him can hope to match his excellent qualities.”

The Promised Messiahas continues: “If you wonder why Allah chose him to start the system of Khilafat and what the divine wisdom behind this was, then you should keep in mind that Allah saw how asSiddiqra had believed in the Messengersa of Allah with a sincere heart at a time when no one else amongst his people had accepted Islam. He saw how he stood by the Prophetsa of Allah when he was all alone, facing a deluge of persecution. After accepting Islam, Al-Siddiq faced all kinds of abuse and persecution at the hands of his own nation, family, tribe, and friends. He was persecuted in the cause of Allah and was driven out of his home just as the Holy Prophetsa had been. He not only faced great persecution at the hands of his enemies but also bore insult and abuse from those dearest to him. Nonetheless, he strived with his life and possessions for the cause of Allah and chose a life of austerity even though he had been accustomed to one of ease and comfort. He was driven out and persecuted in the cause of Allah. He sacrificed his property for His cause and traded his wealth for a life of adversity and poverty. Allah, therefore, desired to reward him for all the suffering he had endured during those days, to bestow upon him something far better than what he had readily given up, and to recompense him for his endeavours in seeking the pleasure of Allah. Indeed, Allah never allows the rewards of the righteous to be lost. Thus, his Lord bestowed the mantle of Khilafat upon him and exalted his name. His Lord took away his distress, elevated his status through His blessings and grace, and made him the Commander of the Believers.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 6366)

The Promised Messiahas further states: “It is vital to believe that Siddiq-eAkbarra [Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq], Hazrat Faruq-e-Umarra [Hazrat Umar Faruqra], Hazrat Dhun-Nurainra [Hazrat Uthmanra] and Hazrat Ali Murtazara were all the custodians of the faith. For Islam, Abu Bakrra was the second coming of Adamas;

similarly, if Hazrat Umar Faruqra and Hazrat Uthmanra did not show sincerity in the trust bestowed upon them, then it would be impossible for us to consider even one verse of the Qur’an to be from Allah the Almighty.” (Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 2, p. 151, Maktub No. 2, Maktub ba Nam Hazrat Khan Sahib Muhammad Ali Khan Sahib)

In another instance, the Promised Messiahas states:

“Hazrat Abu Bakrra is a Second Adamas for Islam. Even in that era, Musailimah had gathered the people on teachings that removed them from divine law. It was at such a time that Hazrat Abu Bakrra became the Caliph and so anyone can imagine the number of difficulties that would have arisen at such a juncture. If Hazrat Abu Bakrra had not been strong-hearted and if his faith was not similar in nature to the faith of the Messengersa, he would have grown apprehensive and this could have spelled catastrophe. However, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra was similar in hue to the Prophetsa. Moreover, the morals of the Holy Prophetsa had left a deep imprint on his character, and his heart was replete with the light of certainty; this is why he exhibited an example of bravery and perseverance that is unparalleled after the Holy Prophetsa. Abu Bakrra brought a death upon himself for the life of Islam.

“This is an issue that does not require a lengthy discussion. Simply study the events of that era and then weigh the service that Abu Bakrra rendered for Islam. Truthfully, I say to you that Abu Bakrra was a second Adamas for Islam. I am convinced that after the Holy Prophetsa if the person of Abu Bakr Siddiqra had not existed, there would be no Islam. Abu Bakr Siddiqra has bestowed an immense favour upon us, for he established Islam once again. Through the strength of his faith, he brought all of the rebels to account and established peace. God Almighty had stated and promised that he would bring peace at the hand of the true Caliph and this prophecy was fulfilled in the Caliphate of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra. Heaven and earth attested to this as well. Hence, this is the definition of a Truthful One (Siddiq); such a person must possess within themselves a level of truth and sincerity (sidq) that is as great and excellent as what we have just described. Issues can easily be resolved through examples.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 1, pp. 380-381)

The Promised Messiahas states: “Upon the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, thousands of people became apostates, even though the sharia had been perfected within his era. The apostasy reached such an extent that prayers were only offered in two mosques, and aside from them, there was not a single mosque where prayers were offered. It was regarding these people that Allah the Almighty said:

[Say, You have not believed yet; but rather say, ‘We have accepted Islam,’ (49:15)]

“However, Allah the Almighty established Islam once again through Hazrat Abu Bakrra and thus, as it were, he was the second coming of Adamas

“In my opinion, after the Holy Prophetsa, the one who conferred the greatest favour upon the Ummah was Hazrat Abu Bakrra, because in his time there were four claimants to prophethood. Musailimah had

amassed a following of 100,000, whereas the prophet of the Muslims had passed away. Yet despite all of these difficulties, Islam remained firm upon its foundations. Hazrat Umar was given this mantle after it was fully established, and he was able to expand upon it to the extent that Islam spread from the Bedouins living in the villages to the Levant and the doors of the Byzantine Empire, and these lands came under Muslim rule. The trials suffered by Hazrat Abu Bakrra were not faced by anyone else; neither Hazrat Umarra, nor Hazrat Uthmanra and Hazrat Alira.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, pp. 277-278)

The Promised Messiahas says:

“The one who suffers humiliation for the sake of God Almighty is the one who eventually succeeds and is adorned with honour and majesty. Look at the case of Abu Bakrra, he was the first to accept humiliation for himself [in the eyes of the world] but was the first to succeed the Holy Prophetsa.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 7, p. 41)

The Promised Messiahas further states: “Evidence for those people being [spiritually] alive, who were slain in the way of God, is scattered throughout the world. Is there a shortage of such examples or accounts before us? Observe the case of Hazrat Abu Bakrra; he gave away the most in the way of Allah and was given the most. And thus, the first Caliph in Islam was Hazrat Abu Bakrra.”

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Perhaps many people will think that by resigning ourselves to Allah alone, we will destroy ourselves, but this is a misgiving on their part. Nobody shall be destroyed [who does this]. Just look at the case of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, he abandoned everything, but he was the first to ascend the throne.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 6, p. 19)

The Promised Messiahas further states: “With regards to expounding upon the full breadth of the meaning of this argument, let it be known, O people of understanding, that in these verses Allah the Almighty has promised Muslim men and women that some of the believers from among them will be made Khulafa by His grace and mercy (this is in reference to the verse regarding Khilafat), and that He will remove the sense of fear in their hearts and replace it with security and peace. This promise was only perfectly fulfilled in the Khilafat of as-Siddiq-e-Akbar [Hazrat Abu Bakrra]. Every scholar knows that his time of Khilafat was a time of fear and tribulation. Upon the demise of the Messenger of Allah, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, countless calamities befell Islam.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Many hypocrites turned apostate and grew in their hostility towards Islam. Some imposters claimed prophethood and many Bedouins joined them. Things came to such a pass that about one hundred thousand ignorant and wicked people started following Musailimah. Seditions and tribulations arose and the believers were severely shaken. Everyone was tested, and terrible situations emerged. The believers were distressed, as if embers were burning their hearts or they were being cut to pieces with knives. At times, they shed tears over being parted from Khairul-Bariyyah [i.e. the Best of Creation — the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa], and at other times, they wept

for the mischief that had become an allconsuming fire. The absence of peace was conspicuous. The mischief-makers grew in numbers like weeds growing out of the filth. The hearts of the believers were filled with terror and anguish. At such precarious times, Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, was appointed ruler and the Khalifah of Khatamun-Nabiyyin [the Seal of the Prophetssa]. He was overwhelmed by grief and sorrow when he saw the conduct of the hypocrites, the disbelievers, and the apostates. Tears gushed from his eyes like heavy rainfall and he implored Allah to save Islam and the Muslims until the help of Allah came and the false prophets were killed and the apostates destroyed. It was then that disorder disappeared and tribulations vanished. All obstacles crumbled into dust. The matter had been decreed and Khilafat was established. Allah saved the believers from afflictions and changed their state of fear into one of peace and security. He established for them their religion, made a whole world stand firm on the truth, and disgraced those who had made mischief. Allah fulfilled His promise, supported His servant as-Siddiq, and destroyed the transgressors and the evildoers. He struck terror into the hearts of the disbelievers. They were defeated and, therefore, retreated and repented. Such was the promise of Allah, the Most Supreme. He is indeed the Most Truthful. Observe how the promise of Khilafat, with all its requirements and signs, was fulfilled in Hazrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiqra.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “[...] Ponder the situation the Muslims found themselves in at the time when he became the Khalifah and how Islam was almost overwhelmed by calamities, but then Allah made it supreme again and saved it from the pit of annihilation. The false claimants of prophethood met a humiliating and painful end, the apostates were destroyed like beasts.”

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Allah gave the believers security in place of the fear that had left them almost like the dead. The Muslims rejoiced after this calamity was averted. They congratulated Hazrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiqra and joyously welcomed him. [...] They honoured him and considered him to be a blessed individual. They looked up to him as one conferred with divine support like the prophets. This was all achieved due to the truthfulness of as-Siddiq and his deep faith in Allah.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 47-51)

Then in relation to the condition of Islam after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa and mentioning the qualities of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, the Promised Messiahas states:

“He was not a Prophet but had been endowed with the faculties of prophets. It was because of his truth and sincerity that Islam’s garden flourished once again and its glory was restored after it had been stung by the arrows of misfortune. Its multitude of flowers blossomed once more and its boughs regained their freshness. Previously, Islam was like a corpse one laments over, or like a thirsty man who had lost his way in the desert. It was bleeding from the blows of misfortune. It was like an animal whose body had been severed into pieces, or a weary person moaning with pain, or one scorched by the sun. However, Allah

came to its rescue and saved it from all these tribulations and delivered it from all calamities.

“Allah helped Islam with His miraculous help, so much so, that it attained supremacy and authority over other nations after it had almost disintegrated and been pummelled to dust. The tongues of the hypocrites were silenced and the faces of the believers were radiant like the moon. Every soul was filled with the praise of Allah and with a sincere sense of gratitude to as-Siddiq-e-Akbarra.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], p. 52)

The Promised Messiahas further states: “Hazrat Abu Bakrra found Islam like a wall that was on the verge of collapse due to the onslaught of saboteurs, but through his hand, Allah made it into an impregnable fortress built of iron walls and guarded by a dutiful army. Do you find any element of doubt in this? Can you point to anyone else to whom this prophecy could apply?” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], p. 54)

The Promised Messiahas states: “He [Abu Bakr], may Allah be pleased with him, enjoyed the fullness of knowledge. He was meek and compassionate by nature. He lived a life clothed in the mantle of humility and modesty. Forgiveness, kindness and compassion were his hallmarks. He was recognised by his luminous forehead. He was deeply attached to the Holy Prophetsa and his soul was united with the soul of the Best of Creationsa. He was surrounded by the same light that had been bestowed upon his Master, the beloved of the Lord. He was enveloped by the light of the Holy Prophetsa and his great bounties. He was distinguished from all other people in his understanding of the Qur’an and in his love for the Chief of the Messengers and the Pride of Mankind. When the life of the Hereafter and the subtleties of the Divine were made manifest to him, he forsook all worldly and physical attachments and acquired the complexion of his Beloved, giving up all objectives for the sake of the One sought after. He discarded all worldly impurities, took on the colour of the One True Lord, and surrendered completely to the will of the Lord of the Worlds. When the love of God saturated his body and soul and its impact and light began to manifest itself in his words, deeds and actions, he was named as-Siddiq. He was invested with fresh and deep knowledge by the Best of Bestowers. Truthfulness became his wellestablished nature and characteristic, and its effects manifested themselves in his action and word, movement and rest, body and soul. He was among those upon whom the Lord of the heavens and the earth had bestowed His favours. There is no doubt that he was a comprehensive model of the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa. He was a leader of those who are the recipients of grace and perfection and had partaken of the characteristics of the Prophets.”

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Do not consider any of these statements as exaggerations, or think that I say them because I am being partial, or that I am ignoring some faults, or that I say them as an outpouring of love. The fact is that these words are based on the truth that the Lord of Honour has disclosed to me. It was inherent in his nature, [of Abu Bakr,] may Allah be pleased with him, that he placed all his trust in his Lord and cared not about the

physical means and resources He was like the shadow of our Prophet and Master, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in every matter. He had a long relationship with the Best of Mankind; hence, through the munificence of the Holy Prophetsa, he was able to attain that which others could not attain even in so many years.

“Do realise that Allah’s munificence descends on people for a reason. This is the eternal practice of Allah. If Allah has not given a person any kind of affinity with His friends and chosen ones, then such a person is most unfortunate in His eyes. Fortunate was the one who absorbed all the traits of the Beloved of Allah to the degree that he reflected them in his words and deeds and manners. The unfortunate ones, on the other hand, cannot even fathom the perfection of those people, just as the blind cannot conceive of colours or shapes. They see nothing but the manifestations of God’s wrath and grandeur, for they are by nature unable to witness the signs of His grace and mercy. They can’t smell the fragrance of love, sincerity, affection, affability or delight since they are filled with darkness (i.e. those who are spiritually blind). How then can they receive the light of blessings? Such a person’s soul is rocking like waves in a storm and his passions prevent him from seeing the truth; hence, he does not try to seek knowledge as the fortunate ones do.

“As for as-Siddiq, he was always seeking the munificence of Allah and looking towards God’s Messengersa. Therefore, he was the most deserving of the qualities of prophethood and most eligible to be the successor to the Best of Mankind. He was one with his leader and always in accord with him. He was the manifestation of his master in all his higher morals and in his conduct and in the forsaking of the associations and the desires of the ego, so much so, that he did not waver even when attacked by swords and spears. He never faltered in the face of any calamity, intimidation, blame, or vilification. The essence of his soul was honesty, purity, steadfastness, and righteousness, such that even if the whole world turned apostate, he would not care or turn back, but would continue to march forward.” (Sirr al-Khilafah [Urdu Translation], pp. 101-105)

This was the character of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, who was completely immersed in the love of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa

The accounts of [Hazrat Abu Bakr’sra life] were the last in the series of the Badri companion, which has now concluded. Some further details have been acquired of the Companions who were mentioned previously and if there is an opportunity in the future, they shall be narrated as well. Nevertheless, these additional details will be included when the sermons on the Badri Companions are published.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to follow the examples of these companions. May they be a source of guidance for us just like the stars in the heavens and may we also strive to attain those standards that they established before us.

(Official Urdu transcript published in Al Fazl International Special Edition, 27 December 2022 to 2 January 2023, pp. 5-11. Translated by The Review of Religions)

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