Al Hakam - 20 January 2023

Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7388

‘Never be disappointed, work hard and pray to Allah the Almighty’

Waqifaat-e-Nau from Indonesia meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa

A group of waqifaat-e-nau from Indonesia were blessed with the opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, in a virtual mulaqat on Sunday, 15 January 2023.

After conveying  salaam, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa called Tahira Rahman Sahiba to recite a portion of the Holy Quran, followed by its English translation.

Ratu Saleha Ridwan Sahiba then presented a hadith of the Holy Prophetsa along with the Urdu and English translation.

An extract from the writings of the Promised Messiahas was presented by Marini Adani Sahiba. After that, Huzooraa asked her, “Have you memorised the whole passage?” to which she replied in the affirmative and said she had memorised all the text for Huzooras. Hearing this, Huzooraa said, “Masha-Allah! You have a very good memory.”

A  tarana (choral poem) was then presented by three waqifaat-e-nau: Naseera Amatus Sabuh, Naima Amatunnur, and Nuzrah Amatul Shafi.

Siti Aisyah Bakrie, Sadr Lajna Imaillah, then presented a brief report in which she stated that it is a very blessed day for them, especially for the 45 waqifaat-e-nau who have been given the opportunity for this blessed  mulaqat. She said that are currently 792 waqifaat-e-nau spread across 207 branches in Indonesia. 61% of them are students. She added that they have 38

From sin to salvation: One man’s transformation through faith

Chosroes and Caesar

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Allah’s Messengersa said: “Once Chosroes has been ruined, there will be no Chosroes after him; and once Caesar has been ruined, there will be no Caesar after him. By Him in Whose Hands my life is, you will spend their treasures in Allah’s cause.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab fardi al-khums, Hadith 3120)

graduates, out of whom 12 are serving as doctors, nurses, and teachers. Eight are serving the Jamaat, working at the Jamaat’s

central

Hudas:

We believe with full insight that the Messengeras of Allah is the Seal of the Prophets

should also be understood that the allegation that is levelled against my community and me, that we do not believe in the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, as being the Seal of the Prophets, is a grave calumny against us. Our critics do not believe in the Holy Prophetsa as being the Seal of the Prophets, even one part out of a hundred thousand, as compared to the strength, certainty, divine understanding and insight with which we believe it, nor do they have

The

Holy Prophet’sas unwavering trust in Allah and Divine protection

The grandeur of divine revelation and the need for heavenly guidance

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

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

office, MTA Indonesia, the Jamaat’s clinic, and Humanity First. Aisha Sahiba

<< Continued from previous page it within themselves to do so. They do not grasp the underlying essence and secret in the Seal of Prophethood and the Seal of the Prophets, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. They have merely heard this term from their forefathers, but they are ignorant of its true essence and do not know what the Seal of Prophethood means and what it means to believe in this concept. However, Allah the Exalted knows well that we believe with perfect insight that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is the Seal of the Prophets. Moreover, God Almighty has disclosed to us the true essence of the Seal of Prophethood in such a way that the intense pleasure that we derive from the sherbet of divine insight that we have been given to drink cannot be understood by anyone other than those who have been satiated by this fountain.

“A worldly metaphor that we can give in the context of the Seal of Prophethood could be that the moon begins in the form of a crescent, and on the fourteenth night it becomes complete, at which point it is referred to as the full moon. In the same manner, the excellences

of prophethood reached their end or completion in the person of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Those who hold the belief that prophethood has forcefully come to an end and that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, should not even be given superiority over Jonah the son of Matthew, have not understood the underlying reality at all and have no knowledge whatsoever of the merits and excellences of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

“Despite their own weak understanding and lack of knowledge, they assert that we deny the concept of the Seal of Prophethood. What shall I say to such ailing people, and how shall I express pity for them? If they had not taken on such a state and if they had not become so utterly distanced from Islam, what need was there for my advent? The faith of these people has become extremely frail, and they are unaware of the true meaning and purpose of Islam. If this were not the case, there would be no reason for them to harbour such animosity against the men of God, which leads one to disbelief.”

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas Malfuzat Vol. II, p. 58-59)

future and life choices. She added that she was afraid she would make a decision that would turn out to be unfavourable.

Huzooraa said:

“Whenever we are going to start anything, we should seek Allah’s help. Pray to Allah the Almighty that ‘Allah the Almighty makes it easy for us’ and seek Allah the Almighty’s help and His guidance. If it is good for you, then [pray that] Allah the Almighty make it easy for you, and make it comfortable for you, and satisfy your heart in this regard. So, if you feel satisfaction in your heart and you are praying to Allah the Almighty, then He will help you; and it will not end up in a bad result. But, you must also remember that we should always pray to Allah the Almighty, continue our prayers in every respect that ‘whatever we are doing, Allah the Almighty always helps us. We sought Allah the Almighty’s help when we started it, and we should seek Allah the Almighty’s help even while we are doing it.’ Till the end of our lives, we should seek Allah’s help and guidance. So, then, Allah the Almighty will help us and when Allah the Almighty helps us, then the end of that thing [which we pray for] is never bad.”

Khadijah Shibyati Sahiba, a nutritionist graduate, asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa if a waqifa-e-nau could have an occupation after her marriage.

your waqf or not. Now it is not the duty of [the parents]. They have done their duty when you were young, but now when you have matured, you have to make your own decision. This is why we say that waqifeene-nau and waqifaat-e-nau should renew their bond of Waqf-e-Nau at the age of 15, and then renew it further at the age of 21 or after completing their education. So, if you want to continue, then it is up to you; if you want to break this bond, it is also up to you. Your parents cannot say that you broke it. You, waqifeen-e-nau or waqifaat-e-nau, yourselves have to decide whether you want to continue your waqf or want to break this bond.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked her what she did. In reply, she said she was serving in the  Ismail magazine of Waqf-eNau. Hearing this, Huzooraa said, “Ismail is for boys, let the boys do it, and you should start your own magazine with the name Maryam. Tell the men that they should continue with their magazine,  Ismail, and ‘we are not going to help men. We shall start our own magazine with the name  Maryam, for waqifaat-e-nau girls.’ Your men are lazy, they want to put their burden on your shoulder. Tell your men to ‘do your own work, and we are going to do our own work.’”

<< Continued from previous page

reported that last year an Ijtema was held which was attended by 441 waqifaat-e-nau She then requested Huzooraa to pray for the Indonesian waqifaat-e-nau to become true servants of the Jamaat. A short video was then played showcasing the activities of the waqifaat-e-nau

Thereafter, this fortunate group had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa various questions on an array of matters.

A young waqifa-e-nau, Zebaish Mubarka asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa how one could eliminate the Satan within them. Huzooraa said that she was still very young and innocent. “To subjugate Satan, one must always remember Allah the Almighty.” Huzooraa said that one must continue to pray to Allah for His help and refuge from Satan’s influence. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said this is why, when one reads the Holy Quran, one says: ميجرلا ناطيشلا نم هللاب ذوعأ so that Allah safeguards one from Satan. Huzooraa said one must pray to Allah to remain pure and so that He may grant one the ability to perform prayer, recite the Holy Quran and speak good words. Huzooraa encouraged her to listen to her parents, pay attention to her studies and not quarrel with her friends. “If you try and pray [to Allah], He will help you,” Huzooraa said.

Tufha Raziya Ahmad Sahiba asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa that as a waqifae-nau, how can one, who is serving in the medical field, convey the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Huzooraa said:

“On many occasions, I have explained that as Ahmadis, we should convey the message of Ahmadiyyat and the true Islam; but waqifaat-e-nau are more responsible for this purpose. They should convey the message of the true Islam and Ahmadiyyat. When you are in the medical field, if your

morals are good, if your attitude towards your patient is good, they will see that ‘this doctor is somehow different from the other doctors. She is a very caring doctor; she listens to me, and she sees [me] very carefully.’ Then she would try to know who you are. Then you can tell them, ‘I am an Ahmadi Muslim doctor and this is my duty, my obligation, that I should respect others and see my patients respectfully and carefully.’ So, in this way, you will open the avenues of tabligh. Then, among your fellow doctors also, you can tell them you are an Ahmadi Muslim and if you are offering five daily prayers when you are free and praying to Allah the Almighty for your patients, then they will see that ‘she is a good Muslim, and we should see and learn more about them.’ This is how you can open avenues of tabligh.”

Farhana Achmad Sahiba asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa if a waqifa-e-nau receives an education loan from the Jamaat, and after graduating from college, decides to serve the Jamaat, how should she repay the loan in this situation?

Huzooraa said:

“You can tell the Jamaat that although you took a loan from the Jamaat, with the intention to repay it back to the Jamaat, but with this nominal stipend and allowance which is given to you by the Jamaat, you are unable to pay the amount within a short period of time because the amount is quite substantial. So, Jamaat can fix a small amount [for you] to repay your loan and then they will deduct it from your income or allowance. And, sometimes it so happens, if Jamaat wishes, they can write off the loan. But it all depends on the financial position of the Jamaat. Otherwise, you can just pay back a small amount every month and it will not burden you too much.”

Munirah Amatul Kafi Sahiba asked how one could overcome worries regarding one’s

Alluding to her profession, Huzooraa said: “This is a good profession, it helps humanity.” Further, Huzooraa said: “And after the marriage, you can ask your husband. If he is happy that you continue with your work, you should continue. If he says ‘no, you should not’ then, you should not do it; but, voluntarily, you can do it with Lajna and other Jamaat organisations or any charity organisation. But there is no harm in continuing your profession, even after marriage. But at least you must seek the consent of your husband and also remember that when you start family life when your children are born, you see it is the duty of the mother to look after the children, to bring them up in a good atmosphere, and with all the good conditions. So, then, your first responsibility is to take care of your household, your children, your husband; and after that, if you find some time, then you can do the job as well. And, if you think you can do justice with your profession and at the same time you can do justice with your children and your household affairs, then you can do both things together.”

Khaula Sahiba asked Huzooraa what one should do if the parents of a waqifa-e-nau asks them to withdraw from the Waqf-eNau Scheme while she insisted on being a waqifa-e-nau

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said:

“Your parents offered your life for the cause of the Jamaat before your birth. And when you were born, they told the Jamaat that ‘now we had a girl or a boy’ [...] ‘and we want to offer her or him to the Jamaat as a waqifa-e-nau’. And at the age of 15 you renew your bond, when you are quite mature and sensible, [stating] that you want to continue your waqf. When you finish your education, you say that you are continuing your waqf. So, when you are mature and you have entered the age of maturity and you have entered Lajna Imaillah at the age of 15, then you can make your own decision. Whether your parents like it or not, now it is up to you whether you want to continue

Saira Basir Sahiba asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa what his guidance was for waqifaat-e-nau who prioritise their services in the Jamaat over their duties as students.

Huzooraa said:

“Whether you are a waqifa-e-nau or not in the Waqf-e-Nau Scheme, as a student, you should give preference to your studies first. Complete your studies, get a better education and then come forward for the help of the Jamaat and work for the Jamaat. But during the weekends, you should attend Waqf-e-Nau classes or Waqf-e-Nau Ijtemas and give some spare time, whenever you are on holiday, give some spare time to your Jamaat work and Waqf-e-Nau work; whatever is given to you by your Sadr or in charge Waqf-e-Nau, but never ever at the cost of your studies; you first emphasise on your studies, complete your studies, get a better education, and then you will be a more beneficial and useful asset for the Jamaat, and then help the Jamaat as a waqifa-e-nau.”

Bushra Hidayat Sahiba said that both Ahmadi Muslims and non-Ahmadi Muslims studied at her school. She added that sometimes people talked about Ahmadiyyat and in response, she would answer according to her knowledge. She asked how she could make them more interested in Ahmadiyyat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that if, at school, it was time for salat and she offered her prayers; refrained from bad habits such as swearing at others, and rather helped maintain peace amongst her classmates and encouraged them to be good, and dressed modestly, then people would naturally consider her to be a good Muslim and would listen to her. “Show your example,” and learn more about Islam and Ahmadiyyat.

Salma Tsania Farisha Sahiba asked how one could remain happy and sincere with Allah even when they are unable to reach and achieve their goals.Huzooraa said:

“If you have dreams or goals according to your potential, then you should work

hard and pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah help you to achieve them. […] First, you have to work hard then pray to Allah the Almighty that you have done whatever was possible according to your potential and according to your capabilities and now Allah the Almighty help you to achieve that, then Allah the Almighty will,  insha-Allah, help you. You see, everybody, every person doesn’t have the potential for everything. A scientist has a different mindset for his studies, a lawyer has a different mindset and a missionary or a historian has a different thinking and concepts in their mind. Allah the Almighty has made human beings with diverse natures. So, if you are good at history, you cannot say that you would also be a good chemist or scientist; likewise, a good chemist or scientist may not be a good historian. So, first, you will have to see what are the subjects of your interest, and among those subjects which is the best for you.

“Then pray to Allah the Almighty, Allah will help you,  insha-Allah. Never be disappointed, work hard and pray to Allah the Almighty, then you will achieve [your goal].”

Kashifa Ahmad Sahiba asked Huzooraa how he maintained his feelings in difficult situations.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“[…] You have to pray to Allah the Almighty that Allah help you. Just pray in your namaz, in your sajdah. Cry hard in your  sajdah and you will feel some satisfaction in your heart, and it will be okay.”

Aasyah Ahmad Sahiba said that as a housewife and a waqifa-e-nau, what could one do to serve the Jamaat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“I have already answered this question. It was almost the same question [asked earlier]. As a housewife, you have to look after your house and your children, and then if you get some spare time, you can serve the Jamaat also during holidays or during weekends, then, with the consent and mutual understanding with your husband, you can work for the Jamaat in your spare time.”

Parwiin Salma Sahiba asked how to instil love for the Jamaat in Ahmadi teenagers so they can be active in the Jamaat.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked her how she instilled the love of the Jamaat in her heart when she was younger? “[Did] your parents inspire you to work for the Jamaat? Or your friends inspired you to work for the Jamaat? Or your Lajna organisation? Or was it you yourself; it was your inborn desire to work for the Jamaat and create love for

the Jamaat?” In response, she said that her parents, at first, instilled love for the Jamaat in her.

Hearing this, Huzooraa said: “Then, the answer is the same. […] So, as you had this love for the Jamaat, the same thing you should try to develop among the teenagers of the Jamaat – the younger girls.

“The first thing is that they should know why they are Ahmadis, who is the Promised Messiah, upon him be peace, why did they do bai‘at of Khilafat, why did their parents offer them in Waqf-e-Nau; and being a waqifa-e-nau and being an Ahmadi Muslim, what are their duties. If they realise their duties, then they will understand their responsibility. When they understand their responsibility, then there will be some purpose before them that they have to achieve. And, for that, when they work hard and pray to Allah the Almighty for it, then the love of the Jamaat and the work and the status of being waqifaat-e-nau will itself develop in their hearts.”

Salma Falah Sahiba asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa that, as waqifa-e-nau, when one is serving the Jamaat as a full-time employee and then gets married, should one quit their service in the Jamaat or continue working with the permission of their husband?

Huzooraa said:

“I have already answered this question. Whatever [work] you are doing in the Jamaat or outside, after marriage, you should work with the permission and consent of your husband. But the first thing is that you make your husband realise that if you are working for the Jamaat, it will help to increase your spiritual level as well as the blessings of Allah the Almighty. If you are working for the Jamaat, you are getting the blessings of Allah the Almighty. So, make your husband realise, so that [he] lets you work for the Jamaat and in this way, you will be receiving more blessings and your family will be receiving more blessings of Allah the Almighty. Even despite that, [if]

your husband insists that ‘no, you have to leave the job, you have to leave the work for the Jamaat’ then, for the time being, you can leave it and keep on telling your husband and be persuasive, tell him all the time that ‘No, we should give some time to the Jamaat, then we can have more blessings from Allah the Almighty.’ And also, a waqifa-e-nau girl should tell their match, the person to whom they are going to get married and his family, that ‘being a waqifa-e-nau, this is our obligation to serve the Jamaat whenever we are asked by the Jamaat to come forward. So, I am a waqifa-e-nau, being a waqifa-e-nau it is my duty. You will have to understand this thing that, even after marriage, I will work for the Jamaat whenever I am asked to do it.’”

Lastly, Fatima Hafsya Sahiba asked Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa if there is any opportunity for Indonesian waqifaat-e-nau to serve in other countries and what kind of service it would be.

Huzooraa said:

“It all depends on what your education is. If you are a doctor waqifa-e-nau or a teacher waqifa-e-nau, then you can be sent to other countries as a Waqf-e-Nau teacher or doctor; but it all depends on your profession and your education. If you are a simple graduate, then the Jamaat will ask you to serve in your own country, not outside. So, as a waqifa-e-nau you can offer yourself, saying that ‘now I am ready, I have completed my education, wherever Markaz or Centre or Khalifa-e-Waqt wants to send me, I will go.’ Then we shall decide whether we should take your services, use your services within your country or outside your country. Yes, it is quite possible that you can be sent outside provided we need that profession.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa conveyed his  salaam after which the meeting came to a close.

(Report prepared by Al Hakam)

“Whenever we are going to start anything, we should seek Allah’s help. Pray to Allah the Almighty that ‘Allah the Almighty makes it easy for us’ and seek Allah the Almighty’s help and His guidance.”

This Week in History

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

of Jamaat in 1936 and had the opportunity to serve the Jamaat in various capacities, such as as a teacher in Madrasa-e-Ahmadiyya, the first-ever general secretary of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Sadr Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Pakistan as well. He also had the opportunity to serve as the private secretary of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh

Huzooraa then mentioned Muhammad Saeed Ansari Sahib, who had passed away on 9 January. He dedicated his life to the service of Jamaat in 1946. He had the opportunity to serve as a missionary in Malaya, Sumatra and British North Borneo. He had the opportunity to translate various Jamaat books into Indonesian.

20 January

20 January 2006: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned the details of his recent tours of Mauritius and India. Huzooraa said he had attended the Jalsa Salanas of 10 countries around the world during the year (2005).

21 January

21 January 2018:

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at the annual meeting of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Medical Association UK, held at the Baitul Futuh Mosque, London.

22 January

22 January 2016:

During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Bilal Mahmud Sahib of Rabwah, Pakistan, who had been martyred on 11 January. He was born in 1989 and was

a waqif-e-nau. He was employed in the Wasiyyat Office of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya from 2008. He was also serving as the secretary wasaya of his local jamaat

23 January

23 January 2004: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Sheikh Mahbub Alam Khalid Sahib, who had recently passed away at the age of 95. He dedicated his life to the service

23 January 2009: During his Friday Sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Saeed Ahmad Athwal Sahib, who had been martyred in Kotri, Pakistan.

24 - 26 January

24 January 2015: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at the International Conference of Humanity First, held at the Baitul

Futuh Mosque in London.

25 January 2013: During his Friday Sermon, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that holding rallies or marches was not the proper way to celebrate the birth of the Founder of Islam, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Instead, he called on all Muslims to inform the world of the peaceful and noble character of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa:

“These days, many Muslims are celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa by holding rallies. However, true happiness and celebration cannot be gained by holding rallies or marches, but can only be achieved by spreading the true message of the Holy Prophetsa to the corners of the earth; by conveying his beautiful teachings to every single person of the world and by invoking salutations (durood) upon the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.” (World Muslim Leader calls on Muslims to Life of Muhammadsa by displaying his true character, www.pressahmadiyya.com)

26

Hazrat

January 2008:

Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted an audience to the young children of the Jamaat in London in the form of an educational class.

Jalsa Holy Quran held in Mississauga, Canada

organised an event at the Bait-ul-Hamd Mosque, on 8 January 2023.

Welcoming the new year of 2023, Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Canada, across the country, started Ashra Talim-ul-Quran . In addition to lessons on reading the Holy Quran, they included unique presentations to emphasise its importance and benefits.

Following this programme, Jamaate-Ahmadiyya Mississauga, Canada

The event started with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its Urdu and English translations, followed by a hadith.

The first lecture was in Urdu, given by Yasir Ahmad Sahib Sialkoti, who spoke about “The love of the Promised Messiahas for the Holy Quran.” He discussed the faith-inspiring events from the life of the Promised Messiahas, which exhibited his love for the Holy Quran.

The English summary of the lecture was also presented.

Tahir Ahmad Khan Sahib then read an excerpt from the writings of the Promised Messiahas, followed by a PowerPoint presentation on “The Importance and Benefits of the Holy Quran” by Asif Khan Mujahid Sahib, the missionary for Mississauga. He emphasised the importance and benefits of the Holy Quran using simple and compelling examples.

Then, Osama Saeed Sahib, Qaid Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Mississauga West, presented an excerpt of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa on the importance of reciting the Holy Quran regularly.

Abdul Majeed Qureshi Sahib, the local Amir of Mississauga Jamaat, delivered the concluding address. Using extracts from the Friday Sermons of Huzooraa , he advised the audience on how the teachings of the Holy Quran can be spread worldwide.

Jamaat Ahmadiyya Malta participates in the Id-Dar tal-Providenza telethon

continued till 10pm. The members of the Jamaat cooked traditional food and served it to all the volunteers and organisers of this telethon, and performed various duties throughout the event. Special attention was paid to cleanliness during the work and a detailed cleaning was also done at the end of the event.

which also proved to be a source of a broader introduction and tabligh of the Jamaat.

Laiq Ahmed Atif President Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Malta

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Malta had the opportunity to participate and contribute actively towards the Id-Dar tal-Providenza

telethon for the fourth time, on 1 January 2023. Jamaat Malta offered support and assisted in collecting donations, as well as arranging lunch and dinner for them as a new year’s gift.

The work started at 10am and

The members of the Jamaat also helped in answering the telephone calls received during the live broadcast. During the live broadcast, which was aired on all television channels in Malta, comments were also taken from the Ahmadi missionary in Malta, where he highlighted the importance of services to mankind according to Islam and also talked about the slogan of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’.

The members of the Jamaat were wearing shirts with the Jamaat’s logo, on which the name, motto and website address of the Malta Jamaat were written,

Similarly, all the members were instructed to meet everyone with great courtesy and happiness, serve food to them with a smile and to greet the people there, to keep inquiring about their wellbeing and to take full advantage of any opportunity to serve that comes your way.

This event was very successful, alhamdulillah

Hassan Bashir Sahib, the person in charge of our team, took care of everything with special interest, and his team members, Musawar Ahmad Sahib, Hafiz Waqas Ahmad Sahib, Jaree-Ullah Khalid Sahib, Nasir Mahmud Sahib, Hanan Ahmed Sahib and Nauman Atif Sahib gave full support throughout the event. May Allah the Almighty reward them with the best in this world and in the Hereafter. Amin

Khalid Mehmood Sharma Secretary Talim-ul-Quran and Waqf-e-Arzi, Mississauga, Canada

The Holy Prophet’s unwavering trust in Allah and Divine protection

Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Imam Fazl Mosque, London

The subject of the blessed character of our master, the chosen one, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa is so vast that it is inexhaustible and cannot be fully explained in one article. One of the many excellent qualities he possessed, and which is beautifully manifested throughout his life, is his trust in Allah.

On the one hand, a perfect man and a perfectly devoted servant, the Holy Prophetsa of Islam, sacrificed everything in his life for his Lord, Allah, and submitted all his affairs to Him; and on the other hand, the Omnipotent, Merciful and Most Generous God provided His trusting servant with His special security. At every step of his life, we observe the fulfilment of this Divine promise:

“And Allah will protect thee from men.” (Surah al-Ma’idah, Ch.5: V.68)

Testimony of the Holy Quran

In the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty has repeatedly testified to the trustfulness of the Holy Prophetsa. Whose testimony can be more truthful and definite than that of Allah, the All-Knowing? The Holy Prophetsa, due to his instinctive modesty and utmost humility, never desired to publicly express his excellent qualities himself.

The Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah has been recorded in various places in the Holy Quran:

“Say, ‘He is my Lord; there is no God but He. In Him do I put my trust and towards Him is my return.’” (Surah ar-Ra`d, Ch.13: V.31)

“But if they turn away, say, ‘Allah is sufficient for me. There is no God but He. In Him do I put my trust, and He is the Lord of the mighty Throne.” (Surah at-Taubah, Ch.9: V.121)

“‘Such is Allah, my Lord; in Him I put my trust, and to Him I always turn.’” (Surah ash-Shura, Ch.42: V.11)

The ultimate trust in Allah

Of all the people to have walked the face of the earth, prophets of Allah are the strongest believers who place their trust solely in God. Allah the Almighty granted our chief

and master, the perfect guide, Muhammadsa al-Mustafa the high station of  Khatam anNabiyyin, thereby making him the Imam of all prophets. Not only did Allah the Almighty bless him with the good qualities of all the prophets, but every excellence appears to be at its peak in his person. The same is true of his trust in Allah which can be seen manifested on various occasions in his blessed life. This is a fact testified by events during his holy life.

As decreed by divine wisdom, he passed through various phases of ups and downs in his blessed life. A study of the character of the Holy Prophetsa emphatically establishes that at every juncture in his life and under all circumstances, he upheld his tradition of trust in Allah, which illuminated every angle of his life.

During the tumultuous thirteen years in Mecca, after prophethood, the terrifying cruelties unleashed against him made his life extremely difficult. Every day was an ordeal. He was personally targeted for hostility and oppression. His beloved and self-sacrificing devotees were subjected to cruel and barbaric treatment before his very eyes. He endured all that whilst staying firm, like a mountain, in his faith and trust in Allah.

He continued to counsel his Companionsra to be patient and steadfast and not to get disheartened as these sacrifices would not go to waste and God was certainly with them.

The second phase of his life started after he migrated to Medina when he was compelled to defend the religion against his enemies’ repeated attacks. The invading enemies always outweighed the defenders in numbers, arms and preparedness in every battle. Under such circumstances, for normal human beings, confronting the enemy on the battlefield was akin to asking for certain death. However, even during these discouraging and extremely dangerous situations, the Prophetsa of Islam exhibited such inspiring examples of steadfastness, courage, conviction, and trust in Allah that are unparalleled in the history of the world. The adversaries of Islam, even today, look at these events with amazement and surprise and pay homage to the greatness and eminence of the Prophetsa of Islam.

After these brief remarks about the Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah, let us now see the different ways the Prophetsa of Islam demonstrated his trust in Allah and how God rewarded this trusting servant with His

special security.

The Prophet’ssa trust in Allah while helping the oppressed

Before he was commissioned as a prophet, Muhammadsa joined  Hilf al-Fudul, a special pact that was formed to help the poor and the oppressed. He remained a champion of human rights throughout his life, speaking for and standing with the oppressed.

Abu Jahl, a Meccan chief, would often stir up hostility against the Holy Prophetsa Once, one of Abu Jahl’s creditors asked him to pay up the debt he owed him. When Abu Jahl refused, this creditor approached the Prophet Muhammadsa for his aid. One person, out of mischief, suggested that he should go to Muhammadsa and invoke the  Hilf al-Fudul agreement for his help to get his right. The mischievous person had thought either he would refuse to help out of fear, and thereby breach the agreement, or he would be humiliated by Abu Jahl. The man went to the Holy Prophetsa and requested his help. The Holy Prophetsa immediately stood up in support of the aggrieved person and, whilst placing his trust in Allah, approached Abu Jahl with courage and

resolve and told him to pay up the debt. The Holy Prophetsa said this in such a way that Abu Jahl was overawed and made the payment immediately. When people asked about this, Abu Jahl told them that he saw a camel, behind the Holy Prophetsa, ready to attack him and so was compelled to pay up. This event shows both courage and trust the Holy Prophetsa possessed. He firmly stood by the oppressed and aided those in need.

(Sirat Ibn Hisham)

Hazrat Umar’sra acceptance and the Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah

Through the study of the history of Islam, we observe the Prophet’ssa magnificent display of trust in Allah and divine protection for him on the occasion of Hazrat Umar’sra acceptance of Islam. In one incident, we find that Hazrat Umarra, prior to accepting Islam, drew his sword, set out, and resolved to kill the Holy Prophetsa in order to put an end to the message of Islam. On his way, he was told that his sister and brother-in-law had accepted the Holy Prophetsa and joined the fold of Islam. He immediately changed his direction to their house. The narration of this incident is quite lengthy. Eventually, after reading the first few verses of Surah Ta Ha, Hazrat Umarra was a changed person altogether. With the drawn sword still in his hand, he went to Dar al-Arqam – a house situated at the outskirts of Mecca that served as a centre where Muslims would gather to worship and learn about their faith – where the Holy Prophetsa was staying with the Companionsra. The Companionsra, seeing Hazrat Umarra with a sword feared that his intentions were not good. However, the Holy Prophetsa instantaneously told the Companionsra not to fear and open the door. Umarra entered, holding his sword. The Holy Prophetsa, stepped forward and asked Umar, “What brings you here?”. Umarra replied, “O Messengersa of Allah! I am here to accept Islam.” The Prophetsa exclaimed ‘Allahu Akbar’ loudly and the Companionsra did the same. It is narrated that the whole of Mecca reverberated with their passionate slogans. (Sirat Ibn Hisham)

Another incident of the Prophet’ssa bravery and trust in God

One night in Medina, suddenly there was an uproar as if some army had attacked. These were the days when there was a danger of Muslims being attacked by the armies of Khosrow. Hearing this noise at midnight, the Companionsra prepared to go out and investigate the noise. While they were still planning, they saw the Holy Prophetsa coming to them on a horse. He reassuringly told the companions that there was nothing to worry about and said, “I have assessed the whole situation.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Jihad)

Just imagine that, upon hearing a striking noise at midnight, with a potential chance of danger, the Prophetsa of Islam goes out alone, with nobody accompanying him, to assess the situation. Fearless, he goes out to evaluate the condition, returns, and reassures the Companionsra, who were, at that time, still making preparations to see what happened outside. How tremendous are the Prophet’ssa bravery, courage, and trust in Allah; and what an inspiring display of the saying: مھمداخ موقلا ديس

The Prophet’ssa fearlessness before kings and rulers

Our mastersa, who was also the greatest preacher, wrote letters to kings inviting them to Islam. He wrote to Khosrow Parviz, the emperor of Persia. Khosrow, after hearing the letter, tore it into pieces out of self-conceited arrogance. When the Holy Prophetsa heard about this, out of righteous indignation and absolute trust in the overpowering support and help of Allah, he said, “Now these people shall themselves be shattered into pieces.” (Seal of the Prophets, Vol. III, p. 203)

Later, Khosrow wrote to the Governor

extraordinary to get the services of an experienced, brave fighter, especially when the Muslims were greatly outnumbered. The Companionsra were pleased to have him join them; however, the Messengersa of Allah had such unwavering trust in Allah that he rejected his offer and said, “I am not prepared to accept help from an idolator, however renowned and experienced he may be, for the supremacy of Islam in this battle.” After a short while, he came back and again sought permission to join, but was rejected again. He came back for the third time and, offering his services, he added, “I believe in Allah and His Messenger.” Hearing this, the Messengersa of Allah said, “If you convert to Islam of your own free will, then there is no harm in you joining us”. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-al-Jihad)

Holy Prophetsa. At this moment, the Holy Prophetsa could have done anything; here was a man who attempted to kill him; however, what did the Holy Prophetsa, who was sent as a mercy to all of mankind, do? He let him go free. (Mustadrak al-Hakim)

An incident after the Battle of Uhud

Trust in Allah is a very inspiring feature in the life of the Holy Prophetsa that seems continuous and progressing from one height to the next. In the Battle of Uhud, 70 companions were martyred and almost all the others returned to Medina with injuries. Even the Holy Prophetsa sustained serious injuries; he lost a tooth and had several wounds over his body.

It so happened that the Meccan army, on their way back to Mecca, after the battle of Uhud, started censuring one another for practically returning empty-handed as the grandeur of Muslims was still intact and their leading figures were still alive. Therefore, they resolved to return and exterminate the Muslims completely.

of Yemen to have him send two soldiers to Medina to arrest the Holy Prophetsa. (Adab as-Suhba, Abi ‘Abd ar-Rahman as-Sulami)

As they arrived, they told the Holy Prophetsa to surrender immediately. Without being perturbed at this dangerous juncture, he asked them to stay the night and told them that he would answer them the following day. What supplications did this trusting servant make to his Lord that night? Nobody knows. In the morning, the Holy Prophetsa told the soldiers:

“Go back and tell your master, the Governor of Yemen, that my Lord killed your lord Khosrow last night”. (Al-Khasa’is al-kubra)

Hearing this, they were dumbfounded and went back to learn that Khosrow had, in fact, been killed that very night by his son Sheroe. What the Messengersa of Allah had told, came to pass, word for word. This event is an exemplary illustration of Allah’s Omnipotence, the miraculous security provided by Him, and the Holy Prophet’ssa unparalleled trust in Allah.

Outnumbered, yet with an unshakable faith in God

When the Holy Prophetsa set out for the battle of Badr, an idolator, who was renowned for his bravery and gallantry, met the Holy Prophetsa and expressed his desire to join the Muslim army. It was

This event is a brilliant illustration of the great character and the Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah; and, at the same time, it serves as an inspiring representation of divine help and security. Being outnumbered, any person would be glad to get help from others. However, the Holy Prophet’ssa unwavering trust in Allah did not allow him to be aided by an idolator.

The Holy Prophetsa unarmed

While returning from a battle, the Holy Prophetsa decided to rest under a tree. The Companionsra were scattered and resting separately. At the same time, an enemy was on the lookout for the Holy Prophetsa. Seeing the Holy Prophetsa alone, the enemy, sword in hand, went and asked him who would protect him if he was to attack him. The Holy Prophetsa was seated under the tree alone with the enemy’s sword dangling over his head. Many brave souls would be unnerved under such circumstances. However, observe the Prophet’s courage, steadfastness, and trust in Allah! In a composed and confident manner, the Holy Prophetsa replied that it was Allah alone who would save him. Hearing this, the man trembled, and the sword fell from his hand. The Holy Prophetsa immediately got up, took hold of the sword, and asked the assailant who would save him. The poor fellow was so dumbfounded and lost for words that he fell at the feet of the

The next morning, the Holy Prophetsa learnt about the evil designs of the Meccan army. The Muslims were in a state of shock because of the loss of Muslim martyrs at Uhud, exhausted with injuries and physically weak. The Holy Prophetsa himself was severely injured. In this position, when he heard of the Meccans’ plan, he made a decision that is unparalleled in history. He called on the Muslims to make immediate preparations to thwart the possible attack by the enemy, with the condition that only those who had participated in the Uhud battle were eligible to participate in the new operation. In addition to his great courage, this was a marvellous psychological war tactic. It created an extraordinary fervour in the seriously wounded companions. The Holy Prophetsa set out from Medina the same day. It is stated that upon the call of the Holy Prophetsa, the resilient warriors of Uhud, most of whom were wounded, came out with the fervour and resolve of a victorious army pursuing a fleeing enemy. After marching for eight miles, they camped at Hamra al-Asad, which is why this battle is called the Battle of Hamra al-Asad.

This move by the Holy Prophetsa was so courageous and extraordinary that it rendered the enemies psychologically depressed. When the Meccan army realised that the Muslims – whom they had thought were wounded, weak, and defeated – had taken up the battlefield with a resolve to lay down their lives, they became so overawed and frightened that they could not muster enough courage to take to the field and eventually proceeded back to Mecca. This great event bears great testimony to the courage, prudence, and trust in Allah, shown by the Holy Prophetsa and is an unmatched example of divine support and security. (Sirat Ibn Hisham)

The Prophet’ssa bravery and trust in Allah during the battle of Hunayn

Similar to the stars in the heavens, incidents of exceptional reliance and Prophet’ssa trust in Allah are countless. These incidents are so unique, history cannot find anything parallel to it.

“The master of the people is their servant.”

An inspiring incident took place in the battle of Hunayn. At a critical stage during the battle, the Holy Prophetsa was left with only a few companions on the field who were hard-pressed by the enemies. Arrows were being showered from all directions by the enemy. There was only one narrow passage to safety, through which only a few men could pass at a time. Hazrat Abu Bakrra, with a view toward the Prophet’ssa safety, entreated humbly that the Holy Prophetsa should retreat for a short while until the Muslim army had regrouped. This time, to say the least, was extremely critical. Our chief and mastersa, placing full trust in Allah and His support and security, took such a courageous step that is unprecedented, the likes of which cannot be found in the annals of history. He spurred the mule he was riding on and started to advance towards the enemy. Whilst he charged forward, the Holy Prophet proclaimed loudly:

“I am a Prophet, without lie; I am the son of Abdul-Muttalib.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Maghazi)

This daring action under the most dangerous circumstances, with death hovering, is a shining example of his trust in Allah.

Migration to Medina, a sign of the Prophet’ssa unbreakable trust in Allah

Emigration from Mecca to Medina was a significant milestone in the life of our beloved Master, Hazrat Muhammadsa alMustafa. The Islamic Hijri calendar starts with this very event. To some, it may seem like an ordinary event; however, it manifested several aspects of the Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah. Every day, during the 13 years of the Meccan period, was an ordeal. The disbelievers of Mecca had resorted to extreme atrocities. His selfsacrificing Companionsra were subjected to all kinds of brutality. The Holy Prophetsa, and his Companionsra, maintained a high standard of patience and steadfastness in the face of all persecution. They always looked to the heavens, waiting for Allah’s intervention to deliver them and aid them. Though the situation was worsening in Mecca, Islam was taking root in Medina and developing rapidly. When the Holy Prophetsa received divine direction to migrate, he permitted the Companionsra to emigrate to Medina. Eventually, he was left in Mecca with only a few others. The disbelievers assembled in Dar an-Nadwa and decided to attack at night and kill the Holy Prophetsa. It was decided that representatives from all tribes would participate in the attack so that his murder could not be avenged.

The All-Knowing God informed His Messengersa about the disbelievers’ plan and permitted him to emigrate. Worldly rulers are usually the first to flee when facing such dangerous situations; however, the Holy Prophetsa, on the other hand, sent others first and remained behind in Mecca and did not migrate till he received divine permission to do so. This event is so great that a renowned orientalist, Stanley LanePoole, has mentioned in his book:

“Like the captain of a sinking ship, the prophet would not leave till all the crew were safe”. (Studies in a Mosque, 1966, Khayats,

Beirut, p. 60)

The writer has paid a great tribute in a magnificent style to the Holy Prophet’ssa courage, steadfastness, and trust in Allah. The fact is that he was the Messengersa of the faith and flag-bearer of the message that was protected by Allah Himself. It was because of his unwavering trust and reliance on Allah, that he remained in Mecca till the last moment with full conviction and composure as an embodiment of courage and steadfastness.

The circumstances in which the Holy Prophetsa migrated, and the way he did it, undoubtedly displays inspiring scenes of his trust in Allah. It is narrated that upon receiving permission to migrate, he set out from his house in the blazing sun, passed through a hostile environment, and reached the house of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, apprised him of the development, settled the plan with him to leave at night and came back. Many brave hearts would be panic-struck with fear and nervousness under such dangerous circumstances; however, the Holy Prophetsa, with his firm faith in Allah, was enriched with composure and conviction. Notwithstanding all the hostility towards him, many Meccans had committed their properties to the trust of the Holy Prophetsa, who was known as Sadiq and Amin. The Prophetsa of Islam handed over all those to Hazrat Alira and instructed him to return them to their owners, so that nobody could point an accusing finger at this unique  Sadiq and  Amin till the end of days.

The Prophetsa set out while the disbelievers besieged his home. His deadly enemies and bloodthirsty savages were on alert to pounce on him as and when he emerged. This man of God passed before them; however, due to divine intervention, they did not notice him. The Prophetsa passed by safely and peacefully under the protection of the heavenly angels, and nobody could do him any harm. Where else would one find such trust in Allah and divine security?

On the other hand, when the disbelievers learned that the Holy Prophetsa had left Mecca, they went mad and started searching for him frantically. Eventually, it was announced publicly that whoever brought Muhammadsa back, dead or alive, would be given a bounty of 100 red camels. Therefore, hearing of this large bounty, many people set out in all directions.

The infidels even hired an expert tracker who led them straight to the mouth of the cave situated at the top of Mount Thaur, wherein the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Abu Bakrra were. The man told them that either he was hiding in there or he had flown up to heaven. One can only imagine what was going through the mind of a devoted companion, Hazrat Abu Bakrra, at this juncture. He was not worried about himself

as much as he was for his master, the Holy Prophetsa. His anxiety and stress defied description. He could not suppress his emotions. He said that if the enemy peeped inside, they would be captured. Hundreds of thousands of blessings be upon this perfect slave of Allah, Muhammadsa al-Mustafa, who fully realised the criticality of the situation, yet neither fear nor despondency ever crossed his mind. He reassured his companion, saying: انعم هللا نا نزحت ال Meaning “Worry not, Allah is with us” He then added, “What do you think about the two people, among whom the third is Allah?” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Fada’il Ashab al-Nabisa)

After spending three nights in the cave, they restarted the journey. The Holy Prophetsa mounted one camel with the guide and Abu Bakrra and his servant on the other. They took the coastal route and moved fast. The quest for the large bounty that had been announced for the capture of the Holy Prophetsa continued to stir many hearts. Suraqah bin Malik set out in pursuit of the Prophetsa of Islam. He saw the Prophetsa and rushed after him like a hunter chasing his prey. At such a critical juncture, even the bravest person would lose heart. However, salute the steadfastness and courage of the Holy Prophetsa who did not show any worry or concern and continued to recite the Holy Quran and did not turn his face to look back even once. It was the result of his trust in Allah that filled his soul with peace and tranquillity. He was convinced that the Lord of the universe was with him.

Suraqah bin Malik stated that when he had reached near the Holy Prophetsa, he could hear the recitation of the Holy Quran. When he was within range to shoot his arrow, Abu Bakrra would turn his face again and again out of fear for the life of his beloved. Even then, the Holy Prophetsa would say:

Such utmost conviction and absolute trust in Allah was only granted to the Holy Prophetsa of Islam. During this pursuit, Suraqah fell off his horse and recovered several times. At last, he gave up his intention and called for reconciliation. His horse had its feet driven deep into the sand

and was stuck there. It was freed through the blessing of the Holy Prophet’ssa prayers.

The entire experience convinced Suraqah bin Malik that, in the end, the Holy Prophetsa would be victorious. He requested the Prophetsa to write him a guarantee of peace to serve him when he became supreme. He requested the Holy Prophetsa for a written surety for peace. Leter, when Suraqah was about to return, the Holy Prophetsa, after receiving revelation from Allah, gave him the good news:

“What shall be your state when the bangles of the Chosroes shall be on your wrists?” (Usd al-Ghabah, Zikr Suraqah)

Under such circumstances, such a statement was unthinkable and unbelievable. Flabbergasted, Suraqah inquired if the Holy Prophetsa was referring to Chosroes son of Hormizd, the Emperor of Persia; to which the Prophetsa replied in the affirmative. Suraqah’s eyes were left wide open in amazement. A Bedouin of the Arabian desert and the bangles of the Chosroes, Emperor of Persia, he thought.

Little did Suraqah know, the divine decree was going to demonstrate the transformation of a blood-thirsty person who rushed in pursuit of a beloved of Allah, craving for worldly gains, into someone who would one day be proud of being subservient to him. The treasure of faith was to be given to him who had set out for worldly gain. As a sign, he would be given the golden bangles of the then-emperor as a token of worldly wealth. Allah had shown that to His Messengersa in a vision and he declared it there and then with full trust in Allah and with full conviction that it was from Allah and that it would come to pass one day. After 17 years, during the Khilafat of Hazrat Umarra, this prophecy was fulfilled word for word.

This eight-day journey of migration may appear as one single event in the history of Islam; however, it comprises countless inspiring manifestations of the Holy Prophet’ssa trust in Allah and divine security that spanned the whole of his life. The fact is, trust in Allah and divine help were integral parts of the Prophet’s life, his words, and his deeds.

100 Years Ago...

New converts in Gold Coast, difficulties in Lagos and good news from Benin

Al-Haj Hakim Fazl-ur-Rahman Sahib (1901-1955)

Tabligh

I had to delay my tabligh tour due to rain. Consequently, I met some people within Saltpond on an individual basis and preached to them. Though people are discontented with Christianity, their hearts are still reluctant and they do not have the courage to accept Islam. May Allah guide these people, amin

An advertisement has been given in a newspaper regarding the need for an interpreter. The work of the school is going on as usual and four more boys have been admitted this month.

Meeting with the governor

On 11 September [1922], the Governor of Gold Coast visited [our] place. I prepared an address of welcome for him and delivered it in the presence of 40 representatives [of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat], ten of whom were amirs of particular jamaats

Due to the bad state of the Hausa people with respect to Islam in these countries, the views of the government are quite political, so I presented the purpose of the establishment of our jamaat and mentioned the beliefs of Ahmadiyya Jamaat in the address. Moreover, I explained the matters in which we disagree with other people. Finally, I requested him to allow the Ahmadi missionaries to preach without any kind of hindrance. It was a public event and all kinds of people were present. In the end, literature was distributed.

Prayer

Mr Arthur, the postmaster here, is a very noble person. He is a well-wisher of the Jamaat and has played an active part in overcoming the initial difficulties. Even now, he is not as concerned about Christianity as he is anxious to spread the message of Ahmadiyyat. Currently, he is facing some family problems.

I request members of the Jamaat to particularly pray that his problems are resolved and may he accept Islam. Moreover, friends should pray a lot for the mission. It is not difficult for Islam to spread in these countries, but resources are needed to go out and preach to the people and tell them what Islam is.

A large jalsa gathering

In the village of Accra, which is the centre of the Accrafol constituency, a jalsa of all the Ahmadis of the Gold Coast was held. The participants included 26 amirs along with the representatives of different jamaats Haji Hassan Sahib of Senegal, the prime mover of this mission, expressed his spirit and made people aware of the needs of the mission. Then, it was decided that the work

of collecting chanda [donations] will be done actively and three madrasas [schools] will be opened in the Saraha constituency soon. A lot of tabligh [preaching] was done during the days of Jalsa.

New converts

Five idolaters converted to Islam. Their Islamic names are as follows:

Ibrahim Zainab

Aisha Maryam

Hawa

From, Maulvi Fazl-ur-Rahman Sahib Hakim

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)

Difficulties and cases

The mosque case, which I reported earlier, is currently under hearing. We have appeared once before the Honourable Judge of the High Court, Justice Chington, and lawyers of the plaintiffs have been given time to consider another similar judgement (relating to the Victoria Mosque, Jami‘ Masjid Lagos). The final decision will be made on 30 October [1922], insha-Allah

Apart from this, a criminal case has been filed in the Magistrate’s Court by Secretary Tabligh Lagos Anjuman Ahmadiyya on 11 non-Ahmadi ringleaders for “inciting people against Ahmadis”, “throwing stones at Ahmadi missionaries”, and “injuring Ahmadis with knives”. For the last two weeks, daily hearings are being held. On behalf of the Ahmadis, four well-known barristers (of Saltpond Jamaat), the Honourable Mr Jisa, Mr Taylor, Alai Kijao, and Ala Kisja, are appointed to follow the case. It is hoped by Allah the Almighty that the Jamaat will be victorious in both cases, insha-Allah Friends are requested to pray that Allah Himself deals with these people who intend to cut the fruitful branch [of Islam].

Various jamaats

Gold Coast, (the Gold Coast letter has been published separately), Sierra Leone, Northern Nigeria and other jamaats are diligently engaged in preaching work. Dars [religious sermon] of the Holy Quran has been started in Kano. Zaria and Kano jamaats are proposing to build a school in their respective cities. Lagos Jamaat, God willing, will try to make Madrasa Talim-ulIslam Lagos more successful after getting rid of the cases.

Good news

A famous chief of the region of Benin was preached through the exchange of letters. One of his compatriots happened to go there while I was on leave. According to my

instructions, he started preaching there and by the grace of Allah the Almighty, it had a positive impact and the following telegram was sent by the honourable brother Gimba from the aforementioned region: “Arrived home safely. Chiefs and people accepted the preaching and believed in the advent of Mehdi. About 1000 willing [to] join. Arrangement [made for] your transport Sapele to Auchi. Waiting in hospital [in] care [of] Thomas Nurse, Sapele. Please buy 150 Quran and 300 Arabic Primer [Yassarnal Quran], there is great demand.” (Gimba)

Reply to Telegram

I am unwell and very weak. Moreover, there are many cases to pursue. The following

telegram was therefore sent in reply: “Maulvi Sahib, I am happy with your telegram. I pray for the chiefs and the people. I seek the blessings of Allah. [I am happy that] Maulvi Sahib is very concerned about the education of his brothers. Kindly inform us about the situation in detail so that proper arrangements can be made. Books have been ordered. Insha-Allah, I will try to visit myself or I will send a missionary from here.”

Imam Ahmadiyya Lagos

Abdur Rahim Nayyar, 25 October 1922.

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 4 and 15 January 1923 issue of Al Fazl)

New Year’s activities by Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Liberia

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Liberia started the new year with congregational Tahajjud prayer, waqar-e-amal, and treeplanting at several places around the country.

Around 7am, after Fajr prayer and dars, Khuddam arrived at MCC Hall where they were welcomed by Mr Frederick Cole, Director General of Monrovia City Corporation. A short ceremony was presided over by Muhammad Jones Annan Sahib, Naib Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Liberia.

Mr Frederick Cole expressed:

“I am grateful to God Almighty for allowing me to join the Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission in this noble work for the past four years on the occasion of the start of a new year.” He said that the administration and team at the Corporation, including the mayor of the city, are well aware of and appreciative of your exceptional work.

said:

“I applaud you for your hard work, I would like other religious organisations to join you in beginning the new year by picking up trash from the streets. We will back you fully in whatever steps you decide to take for the improvement of the city. If you care about people, your community, and your city, you should leave your house and help keep it clean, like the Ahmadiyya Mission is doing at the start of the year. The Ahmadiyya Mission makes me proud.”

The waqar-e-amal began following the silent prayer. Khuddam were divided into four groups of ten each. Khuddam were assigned to clean UN Drive, Camp Johnson Road, Carey Street, Benson Street, Capital Bypass, and Lynch Street this year.

In Monrovia, waqar-e-amal was attended by 38 khuddam, 7 atfal, and 9 Ansar, whereas, according to reports from six other counties, 14 saplings were also planted, with a total of 194 participants.

Farrukh Shabbir Lodhi Missionary, Liberia

Mr Jiram Dingwell, Director of Solid Waste,

Prophets of Allah

Prophet Hud: ‘And unto ‘Ad We sent their brother Hud’

And We did raise among every people a Messenger

Jalees Ahmad Al Hakam

Prophet Hudas was a prophet who lived after Noahas [Nuh], being the seventh in descent from Nuhas. (Five Volume Commentary, Volume II, p. 996). The Holy Quran states he was sent to the people of ‘Ad.

“The tribe of ‘Ad, at one time, ruled over most of the fertile parts of greater Arabia, particularly Yemen, Syria and Mesopotamia. They were the first people to exercise dominion over practically the whole of Arabia. They are known as  ‘Adani l-’Ula or the former ‘Ad.” (Five Volume Commentary, Volume II, p. 997)

Alluding to Hudas, the Holy Quran states:

“And unto ‘Ad We sent their brother Hud” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch. 7: V. 66).

Further, we read: “And to Thamud We sent their brother Salih.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.74).

And:

“And to Midian We sent their brother Shuʻaib” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.86).

Concerning these three prophets –Hudas, Salihas, and Shuʻaibas – Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra explained:

“The verses mean that Hud, Salih and Shu‘ayb were in close association with their respective peoples, so that those peoples could be said to know everything about them.” (Introduction to the Study of the Holy Quran, p. 9)

Who were the people of ‘Ad?

As mentioned above, Prophet Hudas was sent to the people of ‘Ad. “And unto ‘Ad We sent their brother Hud” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.66).

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, in his commentary of Surah Hud, mentions that European critics deny that the people of ‘Ad, known as ‘Adites, existed because no inscription found in Arabia bears their names. From this, they say the Holy Quran has merely mentioned a fable heard from old Arabian stories.

Huzoorra explains that the human race could be generally known by two categories: (i) a name representing an entire race, which is known as a collective name; (ii) a group within an entire race. Huzoorra gives the example of Aryans and states that this was a collective name of an entire race. Within it, there were groups and tribes. Now, in this era, it would be absurd for one to say that other names of races are found but such

a name was not found and so it must be fictitious.

Huzooras further explains that, according to him, ‘Ad consisted of a group of tribes and among the tribes, at different times, some tribes continued to gain dominance and rule and would instil inscriptions of their particular group. However, they all belonged to the ‘Ad.

Geographical work in Greece mentions that in the pre-Christian era, Yemen was governed by a tribe named ‘Adramitai. This is the very tribe the Quran refers to as ‘Adi Iram in Surah al-Fajr. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 3, p. 203) (For more recent research in this regard, see Fawzi Zayadine and Saba Farès-Drappeau, “Two North-Arabian Inscriptions from the Temple of Lāt at Wādī Ramm,” ADAJ 42 (1998) 255–58, Robert Hoyland, “Mount Nebo, Jabal Ramm, and the Status of Christian Palestinian Aramaic and Old Arabic in Late Roman Palestine and Arabia,” Proceedings of the Seminar for Arabian Studies 40 (2010) 29–45, and Healey, J. F. (2001). The Religion of the Nabataeans. Leiden: Brill.)

Surah Hud

There is a chapter in the Holy Quran, titled Surah Hud, in which the Quran explains how Allah Almighty deals with the enemies of his messengers.  This chapter mentions prophets of God such as Noahas, Hudas, Salihas, Lotas [Lut], and Shu‘aibas. It further mentions Prophet Mosesas [Musa] and the people of Pharaoh who behaved arrogantly. We further learn, in this surah, that even though attaining progress in the world is possible when people keep away from God, only those who are loyal and obedient to Allah shall be remembered on this earth.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra writes that this surah has cited many instances of divine punishment and the importance of the Holy Prophet’ssa great responsibility has been made clear, who is reported to have said: دوه ينتبيش

Meaning that ‘(Surah) Hud has aged me.’ i.e. the subjects of the Surah weighed heavily on the Holy Prophet’ssa mind that he felt the impact of old age. (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 3, p. 140)

Prophet Hud’sas call

The Holy Quran, referring to Prophet Hudas, states:

“And unto ‘Ad [We] sent their brother Hud. He said, ‘O my people, worship Allah; you have no other deity but Him. Will you not then be Godfearing?’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.66)

This verse highlights that all prophets came with the same message; the message of  tawheed. Throughout history, we read of various prophets who came to their people with a teaching to guide them to the right path from which they had deviated. The Holy Quran states the source of their divine teaching was the One Being, the Almighty.

Those who disobey the message of Allah are usually blind to observing and obtaining spirituality. Hud’sas people labelled him with two charges. They said, upon hearing his call:

“‘We surely see thee [lost] in foolishness, and we surely think thee to be [one] of the liars.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch. 7: V.67)

Hudas, as all prophets did, explained to his people that he was from the Almighty God and was “a sincere and faithful counsellor.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.69)

Here, it was as if Hazrat Hudas was saying that he had no ulterior or hidden motive; he was expressing that he was simply being sincere with them. Elsewhere in the Holy Quran, we read that Hudas told his people to fear Allah “‘Who has helped you with all that you know. He has helped you with cattle, and sons, And gardens, and springs.’” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.133-135)

After all this, his people said, “‘This is nothing but a habit of the ancients.” (Surah ash-Shu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.138)

Thus was the foolish way of the people of ‘Ad who treated Hud’sas warnings as a mockery. They were arrogant people who took great pride in themselves.

The people of ‘Ad said that they were simply following what their forefathers did and said, “‘Bring us, then, that which thou threatenest us with, if thou art of the truthful.’” It is often seen that people, lost in their ways, do not desire to change or mend them.

Hazrat Hudas replied:

“‘Indeed there have [already] fallen on you punishment and wrath from your Lord. Do you dispute with me about names which you have named,—you and your fathers,— for which Allah has sent down no authority? Wait then, I am with you among those who

wait.’” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.72)

Certainly, the people of Hudas were stubborn in their ways. They left the One True God and remained firm in their worship of idols. They said to Hudas, “‘We are not going to forsake our gods merely because of thy saying, nor are we going to believe thee.’” (Surah Hud, Ch.11: V.54)

Allah states:

“And We saved him and those who were with him, by Our mercy, and We cut off the last remnant of those who rejected Our Signs. And they were not believers.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.73)

The Holy Quran and ‘Adites

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, referring to the Holy Quran, has mentioned the following about the people of ‘Ad:

1. In Surah al-Fajr, the Holy Quran states that the people of ‘Ad were a powerful people and were possessors of lofty buildings:

Aden.

4. The people of ‘Ad were so totally ruined that it seems only a few remains of their building can be found. The Holy Quran states, alluding to the ‘Adites:

“And they became such that there was nothing left to be seen, except their dwellings.” (Surah Al-Ahqaf, Ch.46: V.26)

5. The people of ‘Ad lived in sand-hills. The area they lived in, as mentioned in the Holy Quran, is Ahqaf. The Holy Quran states:

“And make mention of the brother of ‘Ad, when he warned his people among the sandhills” (Surah al-Ahqaf, Ch.46: V.22)

6. The Holy Quran states that the people of ‘Ad were destroyed by a fierce roaring wind, “which He caused to blow against them for seven nights and eight days consecutively” (Surah al-Haqqah, Ch.69: V.8) causing their lofty buildings and monuments to be buried under sand.

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 3, pp. 203-204)

The end of the people of ‘Ad

‘Explore Islam’ exhibition in Canada

“Hast thou not seen how thy Lord dealt with ‘Ad — The [tribe of] Iram, possessors of lofty buildings, The like of whom have not been created in [these] parts” (Surah al-Fajr, Ch.89: 7-9)

No other people in Arabia had attained such heights as the people of ‘Ad.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states that from the verse of Surah al-Fajr, we come to know that the tribe of ‘Ad was called Iram, a kingdom that possessed great power. They spoke the Aramaic language.

2. The people of ‘Ad lived after Noahas Alluding to them, the Holy Quran states: “And remember [the time] when He made you inheritors [of His favours] after the people of Noah.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.70)

3. The people of ‘Ad were well-known for building lofty monuments. The Holy Quran records Prophet Hudas saying to his people:

“‘Do you build monuments on every high place seeking vain glory,’” (Surah ashShu‘ara’, Ch.26: V.129)

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra stated that there still could be found ruins of buildings in Arabia. Huzoorra states that he has seen the remains of lofty buildings not far from

The destruction of the people of ‘Ad came because they “denied the Signs of their Lord and disobeyed His Messengers and followed the bidding of every haughty enemy of truth. And a curse was made to follow them in this world, and on the Day of Resurrection. Behold! the tribe of ‘Ad behaved ungratefully to their Lord. Behold! cursed are ‘Ad, the people of Hud!” (Surah Hud, Ch.11: V.60-61)

The disobedience of a prophet is akin to closing the doors of guidance with one’s own hands. It is as if a man feels that he himself is capable of achieving great heights in life and needs no divine help. The people of ‘Ad serve as a reminder that man, no matter how lofty his buildings and dwellings, is nothing without God. It was with regard to Surah Hudas, that the Holy Prophet expressed that the subjects of the said Surah weighed heavily on his mind.

In light of ‘Ad and Prophet Hudas, the Holy Prophetsa is recorded to have said: داع اخاو هللا انمحری

“May Allah have mercy on us and on our brother of ‘Ad [meaning Prophet Hudas].” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitab al-Dua, Hadith 3852)

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada recently launched a nationwide “Explore Islam” exhibition, taking place in 1000 towns all over the country. The objective is to show residents of each town the peaceful message of Islam.

On 7 January 2023, MKA Barrie North held an “Explore Islam” Open House at the

A very healthy discussion took place with the dignitaries in regard to the values of Muslims and the rights that Islam has granted to women.

The guests received a tour of the mosque and also received gifts, which included some literature about Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Salihas was the messenger after Hudas

Mankind being in constant need of guidance, Allah continued to send prophets also after the people of ‘Ad. When we read the Holy Quran, especially about Prophet Hudas, we will find a recurring pattern. In various places, Prophet Hudas has been mentioned alongside Prophet Salihas. Prophet Salihas

was the messenger who was sent after Hudas

It is stated in the  Five Volume Commentary:

“[…] The account of Hud precedes that of Salihas which is the true chronological order. This shows that the Quran gives accurately and in their true historical order the facts of history long consigned to oblivion and wrapped in obscurity.” (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. III, p. 1363)

Maryam Mosque, which was attended by the mayor of Oro-Medonte and his councillors, as well as local residents.

The grandeur of divine revelation and the need for heavenly guidance

Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

In an era when some began to assert that God had ceased communion with His servants, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas –the Promised Messiah and Mahdi – said God has not ceased speaking to His servants. He claimed God speaks with him and not only speaks but does so abundantly.

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

Shedding light on the superiority of divine revelation over human reason, Huzooras said:

“As God has invested mankind with the faculty of reason for the understanding of elementary matters to some degree, in the same way God has vested in them a hidden faculty of receiving divine vision and revelation. When human reason arrives at the limit of its reach, then at that stage God Almighty guides His truthful and faithful servants through revelation and divine vision, for the purpose of leading them to the perfection of understanding and certainty.” (Surma-e-Chasham-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, pp. 87-88)

In this regard, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra stated in one of his couplets:

(Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 7, pp. 243-245)

During his Friday Sermon on 20 April 1923, Huzoorra said:

“The biggest consolation is the comfort of one’s heart, however, it cannot be attained until one is guided by the prophets and ma’mur [God’s appointee], otherwise, though one’s intellect strives hard, it eventually fails. When [Muslims] abandoned the Holy Quran and deviated from it, they were deprived of the comfort [of their hearts] as well.” (Khutbat-eMahmud, Vol. 8, p. 77-78)

“And it is not for a man that Allah should speak to him except by [direct] revelation or from behind a veil or by sending a messenger to reveal by His command what He pleases. Surely, He is High, Wise. And thus have We revealed to thee the Word by Our command. Thou didst not know what the Book was, nor what the faith. But We have made it [the revelation] a light, whereby We guide such of Our servants as We please. And truly, thou guidest [mankind] to the right path.” (Surah ash-Shura, Ch. 42: V. 52-53)

Commenting on these verses, the Promised Messiahas said:

“What then is revelation? It is the living and powerful converse of the Holy and Mighty God with a chosen servant of His, or with one whom He designs to make His elect.” (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp. 192-193)

In one of his couplets, the Promised Messiahas stated:

“Do not at all make intellect rule over religion, it is blind in itself if there is no light of revelation.” (Kalam-e-Mahmud, p. 383)

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

“And they do not make a just estimate of Allah, when they say: ‘Allah has not revealed anything to any man.’” (Surah al-An’am, Ch. 6: V. 92)

Commenting on this, during his Friday Sermon on 14 April 1922, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra said:

“The root cause and origin of all the destructions is only one factor – and all the religious disagreements have emerged due to this very factor – that ہردق قح هللا اوردق امو meaning that mankind attempts to make estimates about Allah the Almighty. However, how is it possible for mankind to make estimates about Almighty Allah? […]

Huzoorra then mentioned a letter from a professor of religious studies at the University of Vienna, in which he stated that the Promised Messiah’sas book The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam had brought about a revolution in his way of thinking and helped him solve those points that he could not solve for a long time. Huzoorra continued: “The Promised Messiahas neither graduated from any [worldly] university, nor did he obtain formal education from schools; however, what is the reason that, through his words, the mysteries of various disciplines [‘ulum] began to be solved? The answer is, God’s revelation, which descended upon him, disclosed many disciplines. This is the blessing of divine revelation. Human reason has nothing to do with it. Philosophical books cannot encompass those points which are present in the books of Hazrat Aqdasas, since they are a source of comfort [for one’s heart].” (Ibid, p. 79)

During his Friday Sermon on 1 February 1924, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said: “Those who become content with their [spiritual] situation are actually the ones who always stumble, however, those who believe that they are always in need of guidance and the help of God, save themselves from stumbling.” (Ibid, p. 307)

of this world, which they themselves ‘established’ [according to their thinking]. Therefore, they ask in the words of the Holy Quran: اھل ام ناسنالا لاقو

“[And man says, ‘What is the matter with her?’ (Surah az-Zilzal, Ch. 99: V. 4)]

“‘What has happened to this world? We tried our best to reform it and utilised various kinds of methods to make it suitable for ourselves, however, it continued to crumble and got damaged instead of getting better.’

“Thus, if Europe did not succeed in this regard without the help of Allah the Almighty – despite being advanced in knowledge, intelligence, experience, wealth, resources, honour, means, organisation, and many other aspects – then I wonder about those people who do not hold any status in comparison, but still attempt to reform the world through their self-devised methods. [...]

“That God still makes one speak whomsoever He wills; He still talks to him, whomsoever He loves.” (Durr-e-Sameen, p. 164)

In another instance, he said:

“The divine revelation that comes from God Almighty, vouchsafes such knowledge to the pious hearts, which is beyond the human powers.” (Aina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, p. 239, footnote)

Speaking about the grandeur of divine revelation, the Promised Messiahas said:

“The touchstone is that a revelation from God is accompanied by divine succour, knowledge of the unseen that glistens with divine power, and is reinforced with a powerful prophecy.” (Malfuzat [English], Vol. 2, pp. 28-29)

“Since people were unable to make an estimate about God, they stumbled and invented various beliefs. […] They did not realise why the All-Perfect God would not create any means for the spiritual benefit of mankind, Who had created all means for their physical benefits, such as the moon, sun, earth, heavens, and thousands of kinds of blessings?

“Is it possible He created so many means for the [human] body, which is mortal and lives for a short time, but did not provide any means for the immortal soul? Not at all. Therefore, when they said, ‘Allah has not revealed anything to any man’, it was a huge mistake and that happened only because they were unable to recognise God. In fact. God continues His practice of revealing His Word to His servants.”

During his Friday Sermon on 27 May 1932, Huzoorra said that God has established some laws for the reformation of mankind, and without following them, the world could never be reformed: “Human beings, due to their ignorance, consider the Laws of God Almighty to be flawed, and assume their own plans alone would make them successful. However, [...] when they find themselves stranded in their own plans, they realise the world could never be reformed until they follow the laws made by Allah the Almighty. [...]

“Europe assumes it has achieved the highest stage of knowledge, and some of its people have even begun to presume, due to their arrogance, that they can falsify God’s godhood as well. However, they are being forsaken in their own plans [...] and are astonished upon witnessing the situation

“When God Almighty desires to reform something, He Himself creates such means, through which the reformation could take place. [...]

“The Holy Prophetsa did not reform the people by depending upon his own plans, rather, he had surrendered all of his opinions, reasons and sentiments in front of Allah the Almighty and took upon himself هللا

ةغبص [the religion of Allah]. If he had ever wished to utilise [human] plans and self-devised methods, he could have never reformed even a single person. [...]

“Therefore, always remember that one cannot reform the world relying on their own efforts alone.” (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 13, pp. 464-468)

The Promised Messiahas said:

“Though mankind has been strenuously trying for thousands of years to discover God’s powers through the natural sciences

and mathematics, their knowledge is so defective that they can only be described as hopeless and unsuccessful in their search. Hundreds of hidden mysteries are disclosed to those whom divine visions and revelation are vouchsafed upon and they are borne witness to by thousands of the righteous. However, the philosophers continue to deny them.” (Chashma-e-Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 23, pp. 282-283)

At another instance, Huzooras said: “Since every individual does not have the capability to reach the heights of certainty through mere reason alone, it is for this reason that we require revelation, which guides our reason through darkness in the likeness of a brilliant lamp. It is for this reason that even the greatest of philosophers were unable to find the true God depending on reason alone. […]

“I am true in my statement when I say that those who become the slaves of reason and claim that revelation is worthless, are people who do not even make use of reason itself. Those who make use of their intellect are referred to as ‘people of understanding’ in the Holy Quran.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 63-64)

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran: نوظفحل

“Verily, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian.” (Surah al-Hijr, Ch. 15: V. 10)

Commenting on this, the Promised Messiahas said:

“This foretells that there will be a time when Islam will pass through a troubling time, be confronted by severe opposition and a huge turmoil will erupt. At that time, its remedy would be provided by God Almighty Himself, and He would provide an ‘ark’ to save [mankind] from that ‘storm’. That ‘ark’ is the invitation [da’wah] of this humble self.” (Aina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, p. 264, footnote)

Alluding to this, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra said:

“In this era, when the people have become extremely negligent about their faith, Allah the Almighty has sent the ma’mur [appointed one] who has purified the commentaries of the Holy Quran from the unnecessary and doubtful points, and presented them to the world in their true form. […]

“In short, God Almighty has not based the spiritual guardianship of the Holy Quran on [human] reason, and its interpretation does not rely on human reason alone, but rather, He has taken the responsibility to guard it through His own Word.” (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 4, p. 20)

The Promised Messiahas said:

“Remember, merely one’s own plans and proposals cannot help them in their reformation. The one who solely depends on their plans, remains unsuccessful and fruitless since they consider their own plans and propositions to be ‘god’. […] God Almighty has Himself stated the example of the failure of human plans and ideas. In regards to the Torah, the Jews had been commanded to refrain from altering it and various pieces of advice had been given to protect it, however, the unfortunate Jews had altered it.

“On the other hand, the Muslims had been commanded:

نوظفحل

“Meaning, ‘Verily, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian.’ (Surah al-Hijr, Ch. 15: V. 10)

“Then look with what grandeur He guarded it. […] No one could alter it. It is evident that the act that occurs with the Help of God proves to be very blessed, and the one that is carried out by human efforts [alone], cannot hold the blessings. […] Therefore, it is wrong to believe that one can purify themselves through their own efforts and endeavours.

“However, it does not mean that one should cease to make efforts or to strive. Rather, making efforts and striving are essential, and one is obliged to make efforts. God’s grace does not let one’s true endeavour and effort go in vain. For this reason, one should not shun all those plans and efforts which are essential for their reformation; however, they should not be self-devised, rather, they should adopt those methods which have been taught by Allah the Almighty.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 6, pp. 244-246)

Commenting on verse 56 of Surah anNur – Ayat Istikhlaf, the Promised Messiahas said:

“In fact, this verse serves to elaborate the meanings of the other verse: نوظفحل هل اناو رکذلا انلزن نحن انا

“It answers the question as to how and by what means the Holy Quran will be safeguarded. In this regard, God Almighty says that He will continue sending Khulafa of this Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, from time to time. And the word ‘khalifah’ has been chosen to imply that they will be successors to the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and will partake of his blessings, as occurred in earlier times. They will spread the Faith and establish peace after fear; that is, they will appear at such times as when Islam will be rife with schisms.” (Testimony of the Holy Quran [Shahadatul-Quran], pp. 68-69)

In regards to the establishment of Khilafat after him, the Promised Messiahas said:

“It is essential for you to witness the second Manifestation also, and its Coming is better for you because it is everlasting, the continuity of which will not end till the Day of Judgement. And that second Manifestation cannot come unless I depart. But when I depart, God will send that second Manifestation for you, which shall always stay with you, just as promised by God in Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya. And this promise is not for my person. Rather the promise is with reference to you, as God [addressing me] says: I shall make this Jama‘at, who are your followers, prevail over others till the Day of Judgment.” (The Will, pp. 7-8)

During his Friday Sermon on 24 September 2004, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“An Ahmadi should always remember that they are required to read, understand, and ponder over the Holy Quran. Moreover, whenever they fail to comprehend a certain point, they should understand it through the commentary by the Promised Messiahas, or through the explanations given by [his] Khulafa – following the same

principles. And then one should act upon them. Only then could they be included among those for whom this Book is a source of guidance.” (Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 2, pp. 686-687)

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

one to worship [God]. Moreover, whenever a teaching comes, there are some who accept it and some others who reject it, and amongst them, there are some hypocrites as well. Therefore, it has been stated that it is essential for mankind to follow the Pure Teaching, so that they may not suffer by rejecting it.

“And hold fast, all together, by the rope of Allah and be not divided; and remember the favour of Allah which He bestowed upon you when you were enemies and He united your hearts in love, so that by His grace you became [as] brothers; and you were on the brink of a pit of fire and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah explain to you His commandments that you may be guided.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, Ch. 3: V. 104)

Commenting on this verse, during his Friday Sermon on 26 August 2005, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“It must be remembered that now the ‘rope of Allah’ is the personage of the Promised Messiahas and acting upon his teachings. Moreover, your connection with Khilafat would also keep strengthening you. Khilafat would be your unifying force and strength. Khilafat would be a means to connect you with Allah the Almighty through the Promised Messiahas and the Holy Prophetsa

“Therefore, one should hold fast to this ‘rope’, otherwise, those who fail to do so, would be scattered. They would not only ruin themselves, but cause the ruin of their progeny as well. [...]

“How could one hold fast to this ‘rope’? This would not be achieved by merely taking the bai’at [pledge of allegiance] – accepting the Promised Messiahas –but rather, it is essential to act upon the conditions of bai’at as prescribed by him.”

(Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 3, p. 516)

During his Friday Sermon on 27 March 1914, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra shed light on the fact that mankind was always in need of divine guidance.

Commenting on the verses 22 to 25 of Surah al-Baqarah, Huzoorra said:

“In the preceding [verses], Allah the Almighty stated that it was essential for

“In this regard, some people often assert that ‘we have accepted [Islam] and agree to the fact that we are obliged to worship and obey God Almighty, however, what is the need for any Heavenly Word anymore? Why can we not act according to our own reason and worship God Almighty by formulating our own principles? What is the need for heavenly guidance anymore?’

“This objection has been responded to here. [Allah] states that one should always remember that mankind has been bestowed with the ability to progress. However, one can only progress with the help of the Divine Word and Guidance. [...] For instance, one finds that the soil has the ability to sustain plant growth, however, if there is no rain from the heavens, the soil would be unable to manifest its crops. [...] Water is very pure and clean in itself, however, it gets contaminated after [passing through various stages of] its usage. If the already-used water is consumed and one gets the same water time and time again, it could become harmful. However, [Allah does not let] this happen, as Allah the Almighty sends down pure water, after cleansing it through the clouds. The same is the case with the Divine Law; it is sent down in a pure form, but later on, people mix up their personal opinions with it and act according to their own reason, hence, tarnishing it. [...] Then comes the ma’mur [appointed one] from Allah the Almighty, who purifies it and presents it to the people.

“The Holy Quran – which is a truthful book, full of wisdom – had alleviated the darkness of the world and filled it with nur [divine light]; however, the people ‘tarnished’ it with [their interpretations, based on] their own reason, and made it ‘inapplicable’. Now, a ma’mur came to the world, who once again purified that Pure Teaching [from the false notions attributed to it], and presented it in such a manner that acting upon it became easy. Look at the commentaries [of the Holy Quran] by the [non-Ahmadi] Muslims that are filled

Photo courtesy of Suhaib Ahmad

From sin to salvation: One man’s transformation through faith

FEATURE STORY

Naseem Ahmad Bajwa Missionary, UK

The

Lahore Railway Station is a bustling hub of activity, with the grand colonialera building standing as a nostalgic reminder of the past. The sound of train whistles and announcements echoes through the halls, blending with the chatter of travellers and vendors. The smell of chai and street food fills the air. The station evokes a sense of adventure and the unknown as one embarks on their journey.

My journey – which turned out to be an adventure – started in Rabwah. The year was 1974; a year that evokes painful memories for every Ahmadi, particularly those from Pakistan. I had to travel from Rabwah to Baddomalhi, where I had been posted as a missionary. On the way, I was taking the train from Lahore station. As it is with railways; they brought a certain social phenomenon with them, meaning that a “statecertified Muslim” as well as a legally declared “non-Muslim” could be sitting next to each other on the same carriage or in the station’s waiting room. I was in the waiting room when a young man entered and after looking at all the people, came to me and said, “Would you please look after my luggage for a moment?” I said, “Sure, put it here.” When he came back, he sat next to me and we started chatting.

Pakistanis have a unique way of getting to know each other on public transport - by asking very personal questions. From inquiring about one’s marital status to asking about religion, nothing is off limits. It’s as if the cramped quarters of a train magically transform strangers into close confidants.

“Where are you from?”, asked the young man straight away. I told him, I was from Rabwah. “So, you are a Qadiani, then?” he asked in a polite tone. “Ahmadi! ‘Qadiani’ is a term that people use with the intention to annoy us”, I said. Up until my train was ready to depart, we went on to speak about the differences between Ahmadis and non-Ahmadis, the advent of the Promised Messiahas in accordance with the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa, and so on. I politely disrupted the discussion and told my young friend, “I’ve got to get on the train now, let’s exchange our details and we will keep in touch.” He asked, “Where are you heading to?” I said, “Baddomalhi.” He immediately asked, “Can I come with you? I want to know more about you and your Community.” I said he was welcome to accompany me on my journey, but I had to warn him that I would be staying in a small room adjacent to the Ahmadiyya mosque with the bare minimum of amenities. “Please, be my guest if you think you will be able to stay there,” I said to him. “No worries, I’ll be fine”, said the young man who then rushed to get a ticket in no time. Thank God, we managed to catch the train that was about to depart.

I must admit, I wasn’t

really prepared for what came next.

It became apparent during the journey that the young man was very decent, educated and from a good family, however, I also discovered, to my horror, that the young man was a drug addict. I was worried about what the congregation would think and say. I thought to myself, “Well, this is just great! It looks like I’m going to be stuck in a ‘slightly’ difficult situation.” But little did I know that Allah’s mercy is boundless and He always finds ways to guide the lost ones.

We arrived at our destination. The young man stayed with me for about five days. During that period, he observed how we offered prayers at the mosque, listened to duroos, attended educational classes and also went along on tabligh tours with me – on an old bicycle. Riding a bicycle through the winding streets of a Pakistani small town is an experience that comes with its own set of difficulties. The mud roads can be difficult to navigate and bumpy. The weather can also be a challenge, with hot temperatures that can be draining. Additionally, we sometimes had to spend the night in places where there was no electricity or comfortable sleeping arrangements. Moreover, my young friend, who was used to the comforts of a middle-class household, couldn’t even handle the heat of chillies and ended up just eating rotis with copious amounts of fresh milk.

Despite all this, he would accompany me on every tour and take a keen interest in what was being said. He was quite intelligent; he would almost memorise what was being said and would answer any questions about the theological discussions that were being had correctly, all the while giving the impression as if he was completely spaced out by the use of drugs.

It was a bleak situation when it came to his drug use. He would find it hard to get up for Fajr prayer due to being completely passed out. I would, at times, find him in desperate search of cigarettes in the middle of the night.

Anyhow, the whole experience apart from the drugs had a profound effect on him, but after five days he said, “I want to go home because my parents will be very worried. They do not know where I am.” He also said he wanted to fill out the bai’at form. I told him, “It is very good that you have decided to become an Ahmadi Muslim, but will you also be able to abide by the conditions of bai‘at?” “I will try,” he said. I asked, “What will you do about the Fajr prayer; if you are not in the right state in the morning?” He said, “I will try to get better.” I was still not convinced by mere words and said to him, “Fine, fill out the form, but for now I will keep it with me. I will post the form to you when I hear news of any improvement from you.”

A few days after he left, he sent a telegram saying, “I have given up drugs and I am suffering from acute withdrawal symptoms. Please pray for me.”

Then, after a few days, on my way back to Rabwah, I went to Lahore to meet him at his house. I arrived at his house and knocked on the door. His non-Ahmadi father opened the door and as soon as he saw me, he hugged me and cried profusely, then sat down and said, “I was anxiously waiting to see you.” He told me, “Let alone the five daily prayers, my son now also sets an alarm for tahajjud before going to bed at night.”

Later, when the young man met with me separately, he said, “I also had a girlfriend. However, after returning from Baddomalhi, I told her that I have become an Ahmadi and we cannot have a relationship like this. Yes, if you become an Ahmadi, we could get married as prescribed by the sharia. However, she refused, so I ended the relationship with her.” I also saw there were some Jamaat periodicals on a table in his sitting room, about which he told me, “I gave up the drugs. With all the money I saved from not buying drugs, I have subscribed to the various newspapers and magazines of the Jamaat.”

Later, I once went to the Dar-ul-Zikr Mosque in Lahore and inquired from the local missionary if he had met a certain young man. He said, he had and that he visits the mosque regularly. Alhamdulillah, how magnificently Allah transformed the life of that young man. This was the fruit of the prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, to whom I used to regularly write to request prayers.

What would you have done, if you were in my situation? Would you have welcomed the young man after finding out about his addiction, which may not always be the wisest thing to do in every situation? It is probably difficult to say now, but one thing is certain; if one is blessed with the right dose of willpower by Allah the Almighty and makes a sincere effort through continuous prayers, many seemingly impossible things can become possible.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“You should know that as an individual goes on bringing about a change in his life, he continues

to move into the category of Abdal. […] People have misunderstood the meaning of the term Abdal and have given it all kinds of interpretations of their own accord. Fact of the matter is that Abdal are people who bring about a pious change in their lives so that, due to that change, the darkness of sin is removed and the rust cleared off from their hearts. The kingdom of Satan is demolished and their hearts become the Throne of Allah the Exalted. Thereafter, they become the recipients of power from the Holy Spirit and they are vouchsafed the Grace of God the Exalted. I give you the glad tiding that whoever from among you will bring about a pious change in his life, will be considered Abdal. If an individual steps towards God, the Grace of Allah the Exalted comes running for his assistance.” (Malfuzat [2016], Vol. 1, p. 386)

At another occasion, he said: “One cannot find the pathway to guidance until one is bestowed with the grace of God Almighty.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 7, p. 308)

“

One cannot find the pathway to guidance until one is bestowed with the grace of God Almighty.”

with various points that are against the true fundamentals of Islam. Hence, heavenly ‘water’ was needed to purify that ‘water’ [from the false notions attributed to it]. Thus, for its purification, ‘water’ descended from heaven, and guided the whole world.

“Here, Allah the Almighty has stated that ‘look at yourselves, you have tarnished the pure water.’ In the same way, human nature is also pure in itself, however, it is contaminated when people add their reason to it. The previous sharias had also become inapplicable since the people had tarnished them. This [has been presented as] an argument that one should never think they could achieve something by depending on their reason alone. If the earth is not showered with rain, it can never manifest its fruits and flowers. In the same way, when revelation descends like rain, the pious-natured people are able to reform themselves and are inclined towards good deeds. [...]

“The Holy Quran states:

[“Set not up, therefore, equals to Allah.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch. 2: V. 23)]

“Those who say that ‘we do not need any heavenly sharia or heavenly guidance and we can reach God ourselves’, are mushrik [those who associate something with God]. [...]

“Here, the question as to ‘what is the need for any revelation from God?’ has been responded to. What is the significance of a ‘master’ who cannot take care of his servants and help them in their time of need? In the same way, what benefit is of a ‘creator’ who does not guide his creation to save them from destruction and does not descend revelation?” (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 4, pp. 55-58)

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

“But no, by thy Lord, they are not believers until they make thee judge in all that is in dispute between them and then find not in their hearts any demur concerning that which thou decidest and submit with full submission.” (Surah anNisa, Ch. 4: V. 66)

Commenting on this, during his Friday Sermon, delivered on 25 February 1916, Huzoorra said:

“No one can understand the commentary [of the Holy Quran] better than the one who has been taught by God Almighty Himself. Moreover, who can understand it better than the one upon whom the Holy Quran has been revealed? Therefore, the Holy Prophet’ssa sayings and actions – his sunnah and practice – are the [true] commentary of the Holy Quran.

“However, as time passed after the Holy Prophetsa, the people began to interpret the Quran according to their own reason and rationality. As a result, dissensions began to flare up, and thousands of disagreements surfaced. In such a situation, it became very difficult for the believers to decide which point was to be accepted and which one was to be declared false. […]

“For this reason, the need for such a person was deemed essential who would bring them towards the truth and reality

by removing the false notions. Hence came the Promised Messiahas

“In this verse, God Almighty has stated: ک ومكحی

“[They make thee judge]

“Moreover, the Holy Prophetsa has stated that the Promised Messiahas would be Hakam [judge]. Meaning that he would be appointed to remove the prevailing disagreements, and through him, all the people could gather on one religion [Islam]. Moreover, he would teach the true and correct commentary of the Quran to remove the disagreements that had spread due to the people’s [false] commentaries of the Quran according to their own intellect.

fulfilled without attaining spiritual knowledge. From the perspective of spiritual knowledge, only that person could guide the people who have himself attained the perfect understanding of God Almighty, the one who is aware of the ways to attain His nearness, and holds the deep insight of His attributes.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 5, pp. 535-536)

Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

“Surely thou wilt not be able to guide [all] whom thou lovest; but Allah

submission.” (Khutbat-e-Masroor, Vol. 7, pp. 597-598)

Huzooraa further said:

“Amongst the non-Ahmadi Muslims, there are many huffaz, speakers, and commentators, however, when they are not reflecting upon the pathway which has been taught by the Imam of the Age, then this is a mere superficiality which could not benefit them.” (Ibid, p. 601)

In this era, we – the Ahmadi Muslims –are fortunate to be blessed with the divine institution of Khilafat. It is our responsibility to show complete obedience to the guidance given to us by Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa

In this regard, during his Friday Sermon on 2 November 2018, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“The Holy Quran has commanded us on several instances to obey Allah and His Messengersa, and also to show obedience to those who are in authority over you.

Furthermore, the Promised Messiahas has also included obedience as one of the conditions of Bai‘at and that is for one to pledge that they will obey every ma‘ruf command, until their last breath. [...]

“It is evident that showing obedience to ma‘ruf decisions is a vital instruction that we are bound by as they are instructions given to us by God Almighty and also the instructions by His Messengersa. Thus, as long as the true Khilafat is established according to the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa – and this is to continue, inshaAllah – this Khilafat can never issue a directive which is contrary to the teachings of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa, and will only issue commands which are in line with the Quran and the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa

Therefore, every matter and disagreement could only be resolved through the Word of God Almighty. [...] One’s beliefs [imaaniat] should only be based on the teachings of the ma’mur min-Allah [God’s appointed one].” (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 5, pp. 4648)

Commenting on verse 74 of Surah alAnbiya, Huzoorra said:

“Islam’s pride lies in the fact that Allah the Almighty appoints such pious people in every era to prove the truthfulness of Islam, who present their own selves as proof of Islam’s truthfulness. They proclaim that ‘The God of Islam still speaks to us, and grants us knowledge from the unseen […].’ Islam is [like] a fruitful tree, and no era could remain deprived of its sweet fruits. In this way, the truthfulness of Islam and Muhammad Rasulullahsa becomes evident to people of all eras.

“Another point which must be remembered is that the core purpose behind the appointment of prophets is for them to bring the people towards that fountain of blessings, without which one can never attain a spiritual life. Meaning to connect them with Allah the Almighty and establish their strong bond with Him.

“And this responsibility cannot be

guides whomsoever He pleases; and He knows best those who would accept guidance.” (Surah al-Qasas, Ch. 28: V. 57)

Commenting on this, during his Friday Sermon on 25 December 2009, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

“Allah the Almighty provides the means for [mankind’s] guidance. It is His practice to appoint His chosen servants by granting them His nur [divine light]. However, those who reject them – they themselves constrict their heart from paying heed towards God Almighty’s Message. Then, the practice of Allah Almighty towards them is that He lets their hearts constrict even more. They part ways with doing good deeds and continue to fall into vices.

“In this verse, it has been stated that Allah the Almighty helps only those who carry out pious deeds, and show complete obedience to the commandments of Allah Almighty, as a result, they continue to attain various stages of spiritual advancement with the help and grace of Allah the Almighty. Whereas, those who do not believe, exceed in their sins. Therefore, this is a point to ponder for the Muslims and a point of reflection for Ahmadis as well, that if they claim to be Muslim, then they must remember that Islam means absolute

“As mentioned earlier, the words obeying ma‘ruf decisions have also been used in the Holy Quran for the Holy Prophetsa. The Promised Messiahas has also used these words in the conditions of bai‘at. Similarly, in relation to Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya, these words are repeated during every pledge. The meaning of these words is clear in that they mean to establish the commands of God Almighty and to advise the Jamaat to adhere to these instructions. Therefore, it is incumbent upon every individual who considers themselves to be part of this Jamaat to abide by this pledge and obey every instruction issued by the Khalifa of the time accordingly. [...]

“Therefore, it is not the job of an individual to interpret what is a ma‘ruf decision. A ma‘ruf decision is one which is in line with the Quran, the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa his sayings and also that which falls in line with the teachings of Hakam Adal of this era [the Promised Messiahas]. This is the way through which the unity of the Jamaat can be maintained. The Promised Messiahas was sent by God Almighty for this very purpose, namely to unite the people and establish a Jamaat of sincere and obedient followers. Otherwise, the Promised Messiahas has clearly stated that he had no desire to merely increase the number of followers with those who had no idea of what obedience entails.” (Al Fazl International, 16-22 November 2018, p. 9)

May Allah the Almighty enable us all to act upon each and every instruction of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa with complete obedience. Amin

“

It must be remembered that now the ‘rope of Allah’ is the personage of the Promised Messiahas and acting upon his teachings. Moreover, your connection with Khilafat would also keep strengthening you. Khilafat would be your unifying force and strength. Khilafat would be a means to connect you with Allah the Almighty through the Promised Messiahas and the Holy Prophetsa.”

Pioneer Missionaries

Part VI

Fighting weather, inflation and hostilities

Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib was a devoted servant of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya. He dedicated his life to the service of faith at the age of 25 before which he worked as a government employee. He remained grateful all his life for being blessed with the opportunity to dedicate his life to the service of Islam.

and there was no arrangement for any kind of heating, he could not sleep the whole night. In the morning, the first train left at 6am, and the time for Fajr prayer was at 6:45. Bashir Lutfur Rahman Sahib wrote a letter to Imam Sahib and left it saying that it was so cold that it was not possible for him to stay the remaining days. He wrote that he was going back on the first train in the morning. He was surprised that Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib was performing his duties under such conditions. (Daily Al Fazl, Rabwah, 13 May 2013)

It should be remembered that the Promised Messiahas had a great desire for the propagation of Islam in Europe and the acceptance of the people living in the West. On one occasion, while listening to the news of the success of a debate some of his companions partook in, he smiled and said, “I thought that they had come with the news that people of Europe had become Muslim.” (Seetat-ul-Mahdi, Vol. 1, p. 273)

Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib also served in England as the imam of the Fazl Mosque, London. Alluding to this period of his life, his son, Zaheer Ahmad Bajwa Sahib, once narrated that when one wonders as to the conditions the early missionaries performed their duties in, one is surprised by their sacrifices. He said that a friend, Bashir Lutfur Rahman Sahib, told him that he was studying at the Naval Academy near London in 1952. On the instructions of his father, he was told to visit Masjid Fazl for ten days during his vacation, where Zaheer Ahmad Bajwa Sahib’s father, Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib, was the imam of the mosque at that time. Bashir Lutfur Rahman Sahib states that on the day of his arrival, he was running late and decided to have his dinner on the way to the Fazl Mosque. As he arrived, Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib prepared a room for him to sleep and rest in. He told him that in the next room, they performed Fajr prayer at such hours. After a while, Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib brought a cup of coffee, saying that it was very cold, so he should drink it. Then, Chaudhry Zahoor Ahmad Bajwa Sahib came and said that since he had an extra blanket, and because it was very cold, he gave Bashir Lutfur Rahman Sahib an extra blanket to stay warm. Bashir Lutfur Rahman Sahib said that as it was very cold

In 1894, the Promised Messiahas strongly encouraged the spread of Islam in Europe and encouraged Muslims to stand up and propagate the teachings of the Holy Quran. (Nur-ul-Haq II, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, pp. 344-348)Huzooras said that there were hearts among the English people who were waiting to be enlightened by the beautiful teaching of Islam. (Ibid)

Hazrat Ahmadas encouraged the Muslims to guide the lost. He said that there was no doubt that this age needed the weapons of argument and evidence; there was no need, he said, for arrows, bows and spears. Huzooras added that it was not possible for one to win the hearts of people without establishing love and removing doubts. (Ibid)

Huzooras further said to appoint some men from among the scholars to become preachers and go to English-speaking countries and preach the message of Islam. There was no doubt that it was the duty of the scholars to enlighten people about the message of Islam. (Ibid)

To spread the message of the true Islam to the corners of western countries, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra established a mission house in England and started sending missionaries to propagate the message of Islam. When the system of propagating Islam became somewhat established, in 1924, Huzoorra went on a long and difficult journey to Europe to closely study the detailed conditions and problems of these countries and to meet people of every class. After consultation with companions, Huzoorra suggested a permanent scheme and a complete system

of the propagation of Islam be established. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 11, p. 6) This auspicious journey not only made the mission of spreading Islam in Europe more organised and accelerated than before, but its effects gradually spread from England to other countries in Europe. Later, under the Tahrik-e-Jadid scheme, resilient preachers of faith reached Spain, Hungary, Albania, and Yugoslavia in 1936, and Italy and Poland in 1937, and these regions of Europe directly converted to Islam through the efforts of the trained missionaries and the guidance of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra

The mission to spread Islam under the Tahrik-e-Jadid scheme was still in its initial stages when the second global and terrible World War broke out in September 1939, which ended in August 1945. During this intervening period of six years, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra devoted his full attention to the training of the resilient preachers of Tahrik-e-Jadid, who had devoted their lives to the service of Islam.

As soon as the roads to foreign countries started to open after the war, Huzoorra sent a convoy of nine preachers from Qadian to England in December 1945. After receiving training in tabligh matters under the supervision of Hazrat Maulana Jalaluddin Shamsra, the then imam of the London Mosque, they immediately dispersed and established Ahmadiyya missions in France, Spain, Sicily, Switzerland, and Germany.

What difficulties did these missions face in the beginning? What means were used to initiate and continue their preaching activities? From various pages of the history of Ahmadiyyat, the extraordinary achievements made by the eternal sacrifices

of the early preachers with the timely guidance of Khilafat shall continue to be mentioned in the future articles of this Al Hakam series (‘Pioneer Missionaries’).

As an example, to show a glimpse of the difficult journey of the early preachers, it is recorded that when the early preachers of France sent their first report to the service of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, it was particularly concerning the national pride of the French and their biassed opinion regarding others. Huzoorra mentioned the difficulties of the early missionaries in France and said that he was well aware of the matters of the country about which the missionaries wrote in their report. Huzoorra said that he did not send the missionaries without the circumstances of France, nor were the missionaries unaware of the matters there. (Majlis-e-Irfan, 2 June 1946, Al Fazl, 4 June 1946, p. 5)

Huzoorra said a nation that wants to be successful must bear all kinds of hardships. The missionaries, Huzoorra said, have understood that they must be ready to bear difficulties for the sake of God Almighty. Huzoorra added that it was the duty of a real leader to tell his people that there would be difficulties in embarking on such a task. All kinds of hardships and difficulties would have to be endured by those who wanted to walk this path. Huzoorra said that our difficulties were just beginning. When a nation starts to develop and make rapid strides, it is more opposed and faces more difficulties to overcome. The infidels did not show as much malice during the life of the Holy Prophetsa in Mecca as they did during his life in Medina. (Ibid)

Awwab Saad Hayat Al Hakam

A series looking at pioneer missionaries and devotees of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat who gave precedence to faith over the world.

An Islamic approach to maintaining chastity in the digital age:

Qamar Ahmed Zafar London

Like me, if you live in the West, you may have experienced the following: our secondary school teacher sat us down, as a guest had been invited to talk about the dangers of indulging in certain behaviours and we were just thrilled we were going to miss geography class. Most of us were staring at the ceiling, trading shiny Pikachu playing cards for a Charizard, or drafting up the lunchtime football teams instead of paying attention to the guest speaker.

After having conducted some research, I now realise that our awareness of these behaviours is largely owed in part to the great awareness raised about them in places such as schools. However, while there is great emphasis on various kinds of behaviours, there is next to no mention of a particular behaviour that is not only an assassin of people’s mental welfare and self-esteem, but also a silent killer of marriages and spiritual progress. Moreover, it enables exploitation, child abuse and human trafficking: I am speaking of pornography.

Consuming such inappropriate content can have a severe effect on mental health. Research shows it can lead to issues such as depression, anxiety and social problems.1 It can lower the self-esteem of not only the consumer but also their partner.2 Once the mind and the soul have been subjected to this vice repeatedly, it can even destroy marriages and lead to divorces, as found in more than half of the cases in a recent study.3

The most alarming research notes that content that depicts sexual activity in an explicit manner can be a gateway to child sexual abuse.4 Another report exposes the same frightening reality, stating that “pornography contributes to sexual assault, including rape and the molestation

A 13-step action plan

of children.”5 Dr Mary Anne Layden, psychotherapist and director of education at the Center for Cognitive Therapy at the University of Pennsylvania, who has treated victims of sexual violence for over two decades, states that “I have not treated one case of sexual violence that did not involve pornography.”6 Such content can also facilitate the illegal industry of sex trafficking.7

1. (Frontiers in Psychology, Vol. 11, 613244, 12 January 2021), 2. (Journal of Adolescence, Volume 57, 2017, pp. 119-133), 3. (Covenant Eyes, 2022, Josh McDowell Ministries and Covenant Eyes with Barna Group), 4. (Victor Cline, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of Utah 1988, Pornography Effects: Empirical and Clinical Evidence, p. 24), 5. (Pornography Victims Compensation Act of 1992, US Senate Comm. on the Judiciary), 6. (endsexualexploitation.org/articles/videolong-term-consequences-pornography-use-mary-annelayden-phd/), 7. (Cole, S., & Maiberg, E. 2020)

Five practical ways to maintain chastity in the digital world

1. Identify why inappropriate content is viewed – What is the stimulus?

People watch it for different reasons – a report in the Journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviours lists some as boredom, loneliness, emotional distraction, fantasy, stress reduction, carnal pleasure or curiosity. Identify the root cause and stimulus and you are ready to move on to the next step.

2. Respond to the reason with a new action – Rewire your brain!

Your brain has become used to you responding to the stimulus with inappropriate content. Over time, (and this could take time), you will need to respond to your unique stimulus with something other than inappropriate content that brings you joy, e.g. a sport, going out with friends, engaging and enjoyable hobbies, intimacy

with your spouse and exercise etc.

Over time, your brain will learn to accept pleasure from these activities instead of watching inappropriate content. This can take a very long time depending on the extremeness of one’s addiction and can also lead to relapse at intervals.

3. Accountability – Do not allow yourself to get away with it!

Set specific and measurable goals for yourself and try your best to achieve them. Create a plan of action to help you achieve those goals. Keep a journal to track your progress. This can help you identify patterns and triggers that lead to your habit, and also serve as a reminder of how far you have come and things that led to failures. This way, you can make necessary adjustments to your environment and your habits.

You may also “reward” yourself for reaching milestones. Setting rewards for yourself can help keep you motivated.

If you are unable to hold yourself accountable, seek professional help from a therapist or counsellor who can provide additional support and guidance. If you are held accountable, you will be less inclined to do it. Specialist counselling groups and therapists are now becoming more and more available. A 2021 report by the NHS on psychological therapies indicated that “51.4% of referrals moved to recovery in 2020-21”. (www.digital.nhs.uk/news/2021/ new-statistics-released-on-talking-therapiesin-england)

4. Keep yourself away from the triggers –Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me

Assess whether certain places, devices or online tools trigger your desire to watch inappropriate content. Deleting certain apps or avoiding environments that actively remind you of inappropriate content should become “no-go zones” for you. Technology presents a lot of gifts and a lot of liabilities.

5. Keep yourself busy – An idle mind is the devil’s workshop

Constructing your day in a way that keeps you busy is vital to distracting you from the urge to consume inappropriate content. Waking up early in the morning and having a productive routine will inevitably result in a person being more tired at the end of the day, resulting in less energy to spend consuming inappropriate content.

How religion helps – eight more tips from Islam

6.

Subduing the nafs

It is an Islamic principle that one way to control a person’s nafs (desires) is to discipline oneself in daily matters even though one may not want to. The Holy Quran states:

“Verily, getting up at night is the most potent means of subduing the self and most effective in respect to words of prayer.” (Surah al-Muzzammil, Ch.73: V.7)

This simple teaching encompasses one simple rule: Do things you do not necessarily want to do on a daily basis – ultimately, it will help you to tame your thoughts and desires. Some activities may include waking up early, praying or meditating, exercising regularly, taking cold showers and fasting or eating clean.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra states:

“Occasionally, that which is lawful and desirable should be voluntarily given up so that the habit of acting against his wishes may be cultivated. […] He should sometimes stay awake when he wants to sleep, or abstain from eating something he much desires to eat. In this way, he will strengthen his will.” (The Way of the Seekers, p. 110)

7. Offering prayers

Overwhelm yourself with positive affirmations and hold yourself accountable to God. The Holy Quran emphatically claims that salat takes a person away from sin. Thus, it states:

readers that one way to safeguard oneself from “sin” to “which he is prey” is by engaging the istighfar. This allows one’s previous sins to be forgiven and gives one strength to fight the urge to commit such sins in future. (The Way of the Seekers, p. 91)

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Surely, Prayer restrains [one] from indecency and manifest evil, and remembrance of Allah indeed is the greatest [virtue]. And Allah knows what you do.” (Surah al-Ankabut, Ch.29: V.46)

Not only is this indicative of using prayer as a deterrent to sin, but in fact, the verse also reminds people that Allah knows what we do and we should hold ourselves accountable to Him.

8. Adopt good company

Being around the right people with similar objectives can not only increase accountability but also allow you to relate to one another’s struggles. If your circle is motivated to move in the same direction away from sin, chances are you will be on firmer ground when attempting to do so. The Holy Quran states:

“O ye who believe! fear Allah and be with the truthful.” (Surah al-Taubah, Ch.9: V.119)

9. Help others to help yourself

People who give up on trying to fight bad habits can end up with low self-esteem and a low sense of self-worth. Not only can doing good to others and helping in the community around you be a source of engaging the mind in positive things but it can also revive one’s sense of self-worth. A person who is struggling may often find themselves thinking, “I’ve been doing so well and I’m having a really positive impact on those around me, why ruin it now by relapsing?”. Having this mindset can strengthen one’s discipline and motivation to rewire their brain. Thus, the Quran states:

“Surely, good works drive away evil works.” (Surah Hud, Ch.11: V.115)

10. Get married, young

The Holy Founder of Islam, Prophet Muhammadsa instructed that “Those who can afford it among the young people, should get married” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Haith 5066). There is great wisdom in this especially today – the youth are exposed to indecent imagery from an increasingly younger age. The Prophet Muhammadsa advised that those who cannot afford to get married should regularly “fast”. This is useful for subduing the nafs and depleting energy resources to avoid falling into vice.

11. Lower your gaze

The Quranic teaching regarding “lowering one’s gaze” is not limited to physically looking at the opposite gender; in fact, it refers to abstaining from viewing anything that will incite one towards sin, which includes pornography and “thirst traps” i.e. social media posts that are intended to be sexually suggestive or alluring.

12. Seek repentance – istighfar Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra reminds

“Remember, the Muslims have been bestowed two things; one for obtaining strength and the other for the practical demonstration of the strength that has been obtained. Istighfar is for obtaining strength. It is also called seeking help. The Sufis have said that as physical strength and power is fostered through exercise, in the same way, istighfar is a spiritual exercise. Through it, the soul obtains strength and the heart achieves steadfastness. He who desires

During his Friday Sermon on 6 November 2018, Huzooraa said: “Many families are destroyed as a result of viewing pornography. The so-called ‘progressive world’ considers such things to be ‘freedom and progress’. However, studies are now proving the harmful effects of pornography and how it often leads to domestic violence and child abuse.” (Press Release by Press Ahmadiyya, 6 November 2018, Friday Sermon at Baitur Rahman Mosque, Maryland, USA)

In his 11 steps to increasing willpower, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra signifies the incredible God-given power we have within ourselves to give up bad habits. He states:

“The fourth measure to strengthen the

good looks;

to avoid occasions which might furnish incitement towards this vice;

and to control oneself during the period of celibacy through fasting, dieting etc.

“We can confidently claim that this excellent teaching with all its devices that is set forth in the Holy Quran is peculiar to Islam.

strength should do istighfar.” (The Essence of Islam, Vol. 2, p. 246)

13. Get professional help

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra reminds readers that some sins that attain the form of addiction may need competent professional and psychological help. Therapies and counselling are now available and people struggling with addiction should not feel ashamed to get help. (The Way of the Seekers, p .113)

A sin that destroys spirituality

One thing that may not be so clear to the liberal mind is that consuming inappropriate content is indeed a sin. Not only does it ruin a person psychologically and destroy their relationships, but it also takes a person away from God. Hence, a Muslim cannot take such indulgences lightly and must actively try to quit such a habit.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa says:

“Pornography, drugs, online gaming, gambling, immoral and inappropriate relationships, going to nightclubs and many other things are among those satanic influences which are entirely harmful and are taking people away from God Almighty. [...]

“If even the noble prophets require Allah’s grace and mercy to be saved, then what can be said of an ordinary person? Surely it is only by turning towards Allah with true sincerity and humility, seeking His forgiveness and compassion that a person can remain on the right path.” (Press Release by Press Ahmadiyya, 11 September 2019, MKA UK Ijtema)

will and to remove the obstacle in its way is to launch an all-out attack on the very first day against the fault that has to be got rid of. When an army attacks, it starts the attack at full strength. The same should be done in fighting an evil habit. One’s full strength should be employed against the evil that has to be vanquished.” (The Way of the Seekers, p. 110)

The Promised Messiah’sas advice on how to stay chaste “Turn to God Almighty and supplicate Him to be safeguarded against stumbling and slipping.

“Another direction [of the Holy Quran] is: Approach not adultery. This means that one should avoid all occasions that might incite one’s mind in that direction, and should eschew all the paths that might lead to this vice. He who indulges in this vice carries his viciousness to the extreme. The way of adultery is an evil way as it obstructs one’s progress towards the goal and is extremely harmful to the achievement of the purpose of life. Those who find no means of marriage should keep themselves chaste through the adoption of other means; for instance, through fasting or dieting or exercise. [...]

“God Almighty has not only set forth excellent teaching for acquiring the quality of chastity but has furnished man with five remedies against unchastity. These are: to restrain one’s eyes from gazing on those who are outside the prohibited degrees; to restrain one’s ears from listening to their voices and to descriptions of their

“It should be kept in mind that as the natural condition of man, which is the source of his passions, is such that he cannot depart from it without a complete change in himself, his passions are bound to be roused, or in other words put in peril, when they are confronted with the occasion and opportunity for indulging in this vice. Therefore, God Almighty has not instructed us that we might freely gaze at women outside the prohibited degrees and might contemplate their beauty and observe all their movements in dancing etc. but that we should do so with pure looks. Nor have we been instructed to listen to the singing of these women and to lend ear to tales of their beauty, but that we should do so with a pure intent. Rather, we have been positively commanded not to look at their beauty, whether with pure intent or otherwise, nor to listen to their musical voices or to descriptions of their good looks, whether with pure intent or otherwise. We have been directed to eschew all this as we eschew carrion, so that we should not stumble. It is almost certain that our free glances would cause us to stumble sometime or the other. As God Almighty desires that our eyes and our hearts and all our limbs and organs should continue in a state of purity, He has furnished us with this excellent teaching. There can be no doubt that unrestrained looks become a source of danger. If we place soft bread before a hungry dog, it would be vain to hope that the dog should pay no attention to it. Thus God Almighty desired that human faculties should not be provided with any occasion for secret functioning and should not be confronted with anything that might incite dangerous tendencies.

“[...] It should be remembered that to restrain one’s looks and to direct them only towards observing that which is permissible is described in Arabic by the expression ghadd-e-basar, which is the expression employed in the Holy Quran in this context. It does not behove a pious person who desires to keep his heart pure that he should lift his eyes freely in every direction like an animal. It is necessary that such a one should cultivate the habit of ghadd-e-basar [lowering of the eyes] in his social life. This is a blessed habit through which his natural impulses would be converted into a high moral quality without interfering with his social needs. This is the quality which is called chastity in Islam.” (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp. 45-49)

Now that you’re here, remember, do not feel ashamed to ask for help if you need it. There are plenty of therapies and counselling groups available to help you get through this, and remember, as Carl Bard once said, though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

100 Years Ago...

Ahmadiyya Mission in America reported on by various newspapers and reports from other foreign missions

The Moslem Sunrise, January 1923

[Qadian]

The heavy burden of leading, guiding, managing and spiritually helping such an active and zealous missionary movement as Ahmadiyya often inflicts the body of our beloved Leader with many illnesses, and we are sorry to hear that he has been suffering with pain in his leg. With all this, he never confines himself to bed, but continues doing various works for the cause of Islam.

According to the latest reports. His Holiness, [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra] was dictating a refutation to a book written by

a Christian, open or hidden in Hindustan, abusing some holy women of early Islam. Three more well-educated young men have offered their lives’ services to the cause of Truth, and have started their training for missionary work under the directions of His Hazrat Khalifatul Masih.

Our committee at headquarters has decided to open a new mission in Germany, and Brother Maulvi Mubarik Ali has gone to that country to investigate the proper ways and means of establishing such a mission.

[London]

Misbah-ud-Din Ahmad is the name of the new missionary who has joined the corps in London to help Brother Azizuddin and

Maulvi Mubarak Ali in their [administrative] and religious works, respectively. He has devoted his life to the cause of Islam. May Allah be his Protector and Helper in all his undertakings.

[Australia]

Mr HM Khan in Australia has been busy circulating literature and writing articles on Islam in Australian papers. He informs in one of his letters that there were 19 mosques built by Afghans in Australia.

[Bengal]

Meer Sakender Ali writes from Bengal about the various activities of the Ahmadi Brethren in that vicinity under the superintendence of our venerable Maulana

Muhammad Abdul Wahid Sahib. 1200 rupees were subscribed this year by our Bengal Anjuman to the Central Mission Fund at Qadian.

[Secunderabad]

The Hyderabad Bulletin of Secunderabad, India, has printed a whole page communicated article in defense of the Ahmadia Community.

[Africa]

Professor Nayyar writes to me that, under medical advice, he is retiring to India soon. The attacks of malaria have affected his health badly.

Mr AA Yusuf writes from Lagos about our Ahmadia mission work in West Africa:

“Notwithstanding opposition, in certain quarters, the mission work is making rapid progress. Ahmadiyya Hall weekly meetings, Quran and Hadith classes, etc., are regularly held. Open-air lectures in different quarters of the town are attracting more attention and larger numbers have commenced lending their hitherto inattentive ears to the call of Ahmadi missionaries.

“The Maulvi addressed 20 meetings and traveled up to the terminus of the Nigerian Railway.

“In addition to 152 Muslim initiates, including such notable people as the Iman of Zaria township, Elhajj Ahmed of Bida, Prince Abdullah bin Muhammad bin Abubekar bin Usuman Dan Fodio of Sokoto, uncle to the present Sultan, the venerable Maulvi succeeded in converting to Islam a number of converts from Christianity and paganism, of whom Station Master of Kaduna, a well-educated and intelligent West Indian gentleman, deserves mention.”

Press

Many articles have been published in American journals and papers in Turkey, Persia, Syria and other countries about our Islamic work in America. Below, we give a few extracts from some of them:

Indian Lecturer Here

“Monday Night, 26 October [1922]: Dr Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, a very highly educated and cultured man from India, is scheduled to deliver a lecture at the Stanley theatre Monday evening at 7 o’clock, his subject being ‘Islam and India.’ Dr Sadiq is one of the distinguished citizens of his country and it is said he speaks seven European languages. He is on a short visit here with friends and has been induced to deliver an address and it will no doubt prove of great interest to all, who can come to hear him.” (Stanley Sun, 26 October 1922)

Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra (18721957)

Delivered an Address at Chapel

“Dr Mufti Mohammad Sadiq, addressed the students of the Northwest School of Agriculture this morning at the assembly period. Dr Mufti is the editor of The Moslem Sunrise, a magazine published in Chicago. He also has charge of the Moslem church [mosque] in that city. He speaks very fluently and clearly and it is a real pleasure to hear him. Dr Mufti realizes the interest that people of the United States take in learning something of the customs of his country and he told of the customs and life of his people, and explained the fundamental principles of their beliefs and religion.” (Crookston Times)

A very intelligent article on Turk and Greek appeared in the editorial columns of the Cumberland Progressive, Appalachia, Virginia, on 21 September 1922.

The Field Far, a Roman Catholic missionary magazine published at Maryknoll, New York, begins one of its leading articles with this tribute to the Muhammadans [Muslims]: “We stopped several minutes at one station and our attention was riveted to a Mahometan [Muslim] only a few paces from our train. He was in full view of the passengers as also of scores of other people walking or working near him. His face was turned in our direction, but he seemed rapt in his devotions. His lips moved silently and his hands followed his eyes as he made his appeal to Allah. No one, except strange passengers like ourselves, appeared interested in the man’s movements and doubtless, the sight is not at all unusual, but we were impressed with the utter lack of self-consciousness, as also by the evident seriousness of the act of worship that we were witnessing. It helped us understand why Mahometanism [Islam] is gaining ground so rapidly and why its followers are characterized as the greatest propagandists in the world.”

This excerpt, copied from an article under the caption “Around the Circle with the Superior of Maryknoll,” was evidently written by a group of young missioners en route to the Holy City (Jerusalem) and published in The Field Afar for September 1922.

“From America, via the current number of The Moslem World comes news of The Moslem Sunrise, an Ahmadiyya magazine founded to illuminate the pitchy darkness of the middle western states of America.

“Prominence is given to one of the Hadith (tradition of Muhammad[sa]), which says, ‘That which is lawful but most detested by God is divorce.’ An Australian Mussulman describes how ‘Prohibition is Prohibited’ in the United States.

“The magazine also contains accounts of large meetings addressed by Moslem leaders, of subscriptions received, of circular letters sent to all the universities and colleges, and a list of American converts.” (Times of India, 21 July 1922)

The African Messenger of 14 September 1922, contains an account of the new Muhammadan [Islamic] school started by Professor Nayyar in West Africa.

West Africa of 16 September 1922 has printed a photo of Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyar with his newly arrived colleague, Maulvi FR Hakim, and some of the young members of the Ahmadia Community. Lagos.

Missionary of Islam is Here Tonight

Local Men who have Met Famous Islam Missionary Tell of Real Personality Possessed by Him [He] Belongs to the Newest Branch of Mohammedans [Muslims] with Progressive Ideas

“A real scoop has been made for the Grand Haven Exchange Club in that they have secured as their speaker tonight, Mufti Muhammed Sadiq, an accredited Islam missionary who is working in the United States. Dr Sadiq was secured through the efforts of Joe Nejem, who was a member of the entertainment committee during the present month. Some trouble was encountered in bringing the famous exponent of Islamism [sic] here, but finally, he was persuaded to come. Dr Sadiq has been speaking in many different places and is widely sought after, so bringing him to Grand Haven was something of a task.

Is Accredited Missionary

“Dr Sadiq is the first and only Islam missionary to come here with official credentials. He has worked here for over three years and has come to a conclusion, which he stated to a local party on the occasion of a short visit to this city before. He believes that America is as much in need of Islam missionaries as India is (thought to be) of Christian missionaries.

“During his stay here, Dr Sadiq has done much work among his own people and a mosque has been built in Detroit through the incentive furnished by him. He has also lectured in churches, before lodges and before civic bodies.

“Educated in English schools, Dr Sadiq has an excellent education and is able to speak five different languages. He is said to be an excellent speaker and to have a strong personality.

Is Islam Progressive?

“Mr Nejem stated that Dr Sadiq was a member of the Sennay [sic] or Islam’s progressive element. That is the newest

branch of Islamism [sic] [...]. At present, it has more followers than any other branch of the faith, being the religion in vogue in India. Arabia, Turkey, Turkestan, Baluchistan, Afghanistan and other countries.

“In speaking of what is commonly termed ‘Mohammedanism’, Mr Nejem stated that throughout the east, the religion which we style ‘Mohammedanism’ is really called ‘Islam’ and that the term commonly used in America is not in use among the people of the east.” (Grand Haven Tribune, 27 November [1922])

In Detroit Daily News, dated 12 November 1922, were printed Madam Rahatullah’s picture and the following article:

“Mrs Mustapha Thaha, the first woman Mohammedan [Muslim] missionary to the United States, has come to Detroit to attempt to make converts. She is living at 128 Victor Avenue. Mrs Thaha is not a native Mohammedan [Muslim]. She says she was born on an Indian farm, to Swiss parents, but was converted to Islam by the late Sheik Mohammed Majid Gilani. She represents the Ahmadia movement of Islamism [sic].”

Saturday Blade, Chicago, 4 November [1922], prints the following article with my picture:

“Mohammedanism [Islam] is said to be gaining adherents in the United States. So promising has this country become as a field for Moslem propaganda that missionaries have been sent from Asia and Africa. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, a Moslem missionary directing the work of spreading the Mohammedan [Islamic] faith in America, is shown in the oval at the top. The building is the Mohammedan [Muslim] Mosque in Highland Park, a suburb of Detroit, Mich., one of the first of many contemplated in the United States.”

City versus country

“Do you like Mufti?” asked Mr H Murray in Detroit, Michigan, of his little daughter, Fatamy.

“Yes, I like him very much.”

“How much?”

“O, I like him ten thousand dollars.”

When the same question was asked of little Fatamy on the farm near Stanley, North Dakota, by her mother, Mrs Helen Hessen, the little girl’s answer was:

“I like Mufti one bushel.”

[The Hero as Prophet Muhammadsa]

Carlyle, in his book “On Heroes,” exclaims, speaking of [those who, out of bigotry, lie about the ministry of] our Master Prophet Muhammadsa, “A false man found a religion? Why, a false man cannot build a brick house! If he does not know and follow truly the properties of mortar, burnt clay and whatever else he works with, it is no house that he builds, but a rubbish-heap. It will not stand for twelve centuries, to ledge a hundred and eighty millions; it will fall straightway.”

Cable address

Our short address has been registered at the Chicago Telegraph Office as “Almasjid Chicago.” Any cablegram from India or any other country with these words will reach us safely, insha-Allah. The full [postal] address is not necessary for telegrams and cablegrams. The cablegram from Brother FM Sayal in November last was addressed to “Almasjid” and reached us safely. Our telephone number is Atlantic 0014.

[Mustapha]

Mr ALA Mustapha writes from Lagos:

“The books you have sent to me have done tremendous work among the educated natives. The eloquent preacher here, Mr Nayyar, is doing great work and since he came to this coast, more than three thousand men, women and children have embraced the Ahmadia movement.”

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

100 Years

Ago...

Jalsa Salana Qadian 1922 and establishment of Lajna Imaillah

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

[Jalsa Salana Qadian]

[…] It is a matter of gratification that the number of those who joined the Jalsa [Salana Qadian 1922] was about 8000 –a number that exceeds the figures of the preceding year. It is a visible sign of the steady growth of our Community and the increasing interest of its members in the movement that every year sees an advance over the preceding one.

Another feature of this year’s Jalsa is that an abnormally large number of nonAhmadis joined it, and thank God, the major portion of these accepted the Ahmadiyya teachings and entered into the bai‘at of the Khalifatul Masih [IIra].

A large number of Ahmadi ladies also took part in the Jalsa. Lectures were delivered by the prominent members of the Community, reports of the different departments of the central administration of the Community at Qadian were read and an appeal for subscriptions was made to the members.

The Jalsa lasted for three days, beginning on 26 [December] and ending on 28 December [1922]. His Holiness delivered one lecture on 27 [December] and another on 28 [December], the latter being on the subject of Salvation. His Holiness first described the teachings of all the different religions of the world, both old and modern, and then proceeded to explain the teachings

of Islam on this important question. He laid stress on the point that while other religions only held out the hope of salvation to their followers, Islam went a step further and promised them not only salvation but falah, i.e., gaining the object of one’s life. Salvation, he said, is a negative virtue, [i.e., of lesser importance], which means only that the man who gains salvation is saved from the evil consequences of life. But the man who gains falah is not only thus saved but further attains the object of his life by gaining access to his Lord and Master in Heaven.

His Holiness further explained how Islam bestows salvation and falah in this very life, while other religions only make promises about the next. How can a true believer come to know that he is really treading the path of salvation when the goal is to be reached after death? The follower of such a religion will face death with a thousand doubts and misgivings as to whether he has followed the right path. But the man whose salvation and falah begin in this world and who reaps the fruits of his labours in this very life and tastes the sweet syrup of Divine favour and love before his soul is called upon to leave “this fleshy nook” faces death with peace and calmness, for he knows that the tree whose delicious fruit he has tasted in this life will bear more delicious and more varied and more luxuriant fruit in the next. This is why the Quran says:

“Verily, there are two paradises for him who fears the Lord and remembers the day when he will stand before Him.” [Surah arRahman, Ch.55: V.47]

After this, His Holiness proceeded to explain the ways of salvation and falah, i.e., how salvation and falah can be attained in Islam. Finally, His Holiness described the signs by which it may be known that a certain person has gained falah. The lecture was very learned, yet very clear and instructive.

Baitul Mal

Last year was a year of great financial strain for us. There was an abnormal deficit in our budget, which, with all the efforts of our Finance Member, could not be made up. Retrenchment was of course resorted to, but where the scale of expenditure is already at its lowest, retrenchment is of little help except at the cost of efficiency. But thanks to the zeal and devotion of the members of the Ahmadiyya Community, a special subscription of 6,000 rupees was raised among the Community, and thus, through God’s grace, the situation was saved. This year, the state of our finances, though not quite stable, is nevertheless encouraging.

Education

This year, the portfolio of our Education Department has been in the hands of Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayal MA, who is also in charge of the Tabligh and Missionary Department.

The most noteworthy achievement of the department this year is the establishment of a society of Ahmadi women at Qadian for the general education and training of Ahmadi ladies. The society is known as Lajna Imaillah (i.e., Ladies’ Society of the Servants of Allah) and is under the direct supervision and guidance of His Holiness. Meetings are regularly held, and rules and regulations have been framed for the healthy working of the Society, and it is a matter of immense gratification for us that a general awakening is to be seen among our sisters. Branches of the Central Lajna will soon be established in other important parts of the country. The Girls’ School at Qadian is in a fairly satisfactory condition, but there is much room for improvement. It has been decided to prepare text books that may suit our requirements, and unless this objective is achieved, the raising of the school from the primary standard to the secondary department has been postponed.

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

A reflection on 2023: Four modes of polishing the soul’s diamond

Rameen Masood Leicester, UK

Three weeks into January. The world has returned to the hubbub of life, with schools and universities opening for work and regular routines resuming. The world continues to receive its share of positive and negative news. Where tunnels of darkness are emerging, the light of hope isn’t too distant. The law of nature has created everything in pairs, so where there are tragedies or problems, the keys to happiness and solutions follow suit.

As we continue treading the path of 2023, I thought I’d take this opportunity to reflect. So, when reflecting upon the nineteen years of my existence, I believe four points have become crystal clear to me.

The first one is: Prayer has power. Cosmic power.

And, to unleash its power, no magical spells or subtle use of alchemy is required. Instead, righteous intentions, humility and hope are the prerequisites.

Allah the Almighty is al-Mujeeb, the Answerer of Prayers. I’m sure we all have had those experiences where our prayers have been answered, and we have felt the force of His mercy unfurl from unexpected avenues. Personally speaking, Allah the Almighty has accepted so many of my prayers that it is impossible to brush off such incidents as mere coincidences. From prayers about educational pursuits to praying that a letter to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa is successfully faxed in the first attempt – prayers which may seem trivial in the grand scheme of things, but to me, they serve as decisive proofs for the existence of the Almighty.

As humans, we cannot foretell the future, so we can never be sure what another year has in store for us. What treasure troves of joy await us, or what fringes of challenges we may have to overcome. Etymologically speaking, the term ‘year’ seems to loosely translate to ‘that which makes a complete cycle’. (www.etymonline.com/word/year)

So, through the four seasons of happiness and hardships, our lives complete an entire cycle.

This reminds me of the ‘Circle of Life’ from  The Lion King, which is based on a similar principle of traversing the countless waves that come to subvert the ark of life. In a similar vein, Islam encourages us to continue striving and to remain resilient. It encapsulates how hope is always present around us. Our faith teaches us to hold fast to the mantle of prayer, as through its power, it is possible to achieve even that which may seem impossible. And I do not say this lightly.

The second lesson I have learnt is intrinsically linked to the first. The blessings

of following the directives of the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas. The essence of remaining obedient to Khilafat is a beacon of guidance for our spiritual and moral reformation. Whether that is encouraging us to excel in our studies or answering our everyday questions through  mulaqats and letters, beloved Huzooraa has always guided us and continues to do so.

From the Friday sermons regarding the lives of the Companionsra to highlighting the example of righteous women of Islam, beloved Huzooraa has provided us with many qualities we can learn from. Whether that’s trying to learn from the Holy Prophet’ssa boundless love for the Holy Quran, or striving to inculcate the exceptional kindness and service of Hazrat Abu Bakrra towards the poor, where he would himself feed morsels of food to a lame and blind man. Or perhaps even aiming to experience the utmost joy that Hazrat Amma Janra, the blessed wife of the Promised Messiahas, found in her prayers, for every quality emulated from the chosen people of Allah is like ascending one rung higher on the ladder of righteousness.

In fact, on 25 December 2022, Lajna Ima’illah, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Organisation celebrated its centenary. Amidst the omphalos of celebration, the event encouraged us to strive to follow in the footsteps of the inspiring role models whose indelible marks of sacrifice and righteousness have been etched in the archives of the past century; to follow with our souls embodying their zeal and fortitude so that we too can serve the faith and attain our Lord’s nearness, insha-Allah

When we listen to such pious examples, many a time, it seems as if they are somewhat unachievable. But the start to everything hard is by making small changes within ourselves, which brings me to my third

point: the importance of small steps and how even they can make a pronounceable difference.

In a figurative sense, the world stands on the unfortunate precipice of chaos and destruction. We are teetering on the edge. To prevent the world from plunging into the deep abyss, practical steps must be implemented where all of us can play a part.

As a 19-year-old, I doubt I could do something that would revolutionise the world overnight, and that’s a worthwhile lesson. It is essential to realise that we do not always have to try and shift boulders. Even picking the small pebbles in our paths could lead to lasting impacts. Even the smallest of our acts could make a difference. For instance, the small changes we create within ourselves. The small steps we take towards God, the small acts of voluntary service we do, also paint their unique strokes upon the canvas of our lives and form the nexus points of united communities and peaceful lands.

Lastly, I have learnt how reflection and self-reformation form the fulcrum of our lives and souls.

When looking back into the mirror of 2022 and observing the reflections of our actions and events, I don’t await a perfect reflection to look me in the eye. All interactions and events that become a part of us are like the jigsaw pieces of the puzzle of our life. They bring windows of opportunities and hurdles, moulding us all the time.

I believe that the essence of a new year is self-reflection and looking forward to implementing new habits in one’s life, while also ensuring that previous, good ones persist.

For a moment, imagine that no concept of a year had ever been invented. That would beget a string of questions: How would we have kept track of time? How would we have

chronologically structured salient events from the past? How would months have existed? Would they have even existed in the first place?

Therefore, it is categorically established that the concept of a ‘year’ is fundamental to us physically. But, in my view, it extends further and helps us spiritually. Whilst a new year isn’t needed to bring changes within ourselves, I think its prospect certainly helps as it proffers a renewed sense of hope and an intense zeal for self-reformation. It offers an opportunity for us to cogitate, consider and change.

Islam champions the art of reflection, as the Holy Quran professes: “And He has subjected to you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth: all [this is] from Him. In that surely are Signs for a people who reflect.” (Surah al-Jathiyah Ch.45: V.14)

So, the reflection I speak of is not confined just to our deeds but also to the universe around us. It is the reflection that helps us search for our God. If we were to sit down and contemplate the world around us, an avalanche of thoughts would fill our heads; from the design of the celestial bodies, and the fashioning of the intricate anatomy of the human body to the creation of water. It is an endless list.

And it is rightly so, as the treasures of Allah the Almighty are unceasing, the deeper we endeavour, the more we shall discover. In fact, this philosophy has been most eloquently described by the Promised Messiahas in the following words:

“Allah the Exalted has put before us a matchless and precious treasure that we can find and attain. […] In fact, each and every individual can have this treasure. Allah Almighty has no shortage. He has the power to give everyone these treasures, yet there would be no decrease in them.” (Malfuzat [English], Vol. II, p. 132)

To pursue those treasures, we must continue improving ourselves. Just like the four cardinal directions help us navigate, I believe that these four points can form the moral compass of our life’s course.

So, as we continue our journey in 2023, I see it as another year to polish our soul’s diamond, to continue refining it so that it scintillates brighter than before. For truly, no pious soul can ever return empty-handed from the Lord’s gracious court.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to become His righteous servants, and may we attain His love and special nearness. Amin

it is Thy grace – I offer myself at Thy door; Thou granted me the Faith; Thou’rt the Protector at all times.” (Durr-eSameen, English Translation, p. 43)

Friday Sermon

Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, UK, 23 December 2022

The need for the Imam

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

Today, Jalsa Salana Qadian has commenced and the Jalsas across various other countries in Africa are also being held. May Allah the Almighty bless the Jalsas, which are being held in all these countries, in every aspect. God willing, the other countries of Africa will also participate in the address that will be delivered for the Jalsa in Qadian on Sunday – the last day of the Jalsa. There are seven or eight countries and we will also try to include them here live, via MTA. Nevertheless, as people in these countries have gathered together and will be listening to this sermon as well; and a special atmosphere has been created in order to listen to it closely, I have thus deemed it appropriate to relate, in the words of the Promised Messiahas about the purpose of his advent and the purpose of establishing the Jamaat and also the various advice that the Promised Messiahas has bestowed upon us. Many of those who have recently joined Ahmadiyyat and the young generation of Ahmadis will be attending these Jalsas as well, and they may not be familiar with this guidance explained in the words of

the Promised Messiahas. It is important for them to be aware of this so that they can strive, particularly during these days, to increase their faith, conviction, sincerity and devotion and to seek the help of Allah the Almighty in order to realise the purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiahas and to understand their responsibilities.

What was the purpose of establishing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and why was its establishment necessary in this era? Mentioning this, the Promised Messiahas says:

“How blessed is this era that God Almighty, out of His sheer Grace, has desired to provide support for Islam during such turbulent times in order to demonstrate the greatness of the Holy Prophetsa and thus, through support from the unseen and owing to His Grace, He established this movement. I would ask those who possess heartfelt pain for Islam, and have some respect and regard in their hearts for it to tell me a time when Islam has experienced such abuse and the Holy Prophetsa  and the Holy Quran have been insulted to such an extent? I am

also extremely saddened and experience heartfelt anguish at the condition of the Muslims. Sometimes I become restless due to the pain of knowing that the Muslims do not have even the slightest bit of shame in order to feel this humiliation.

“Did Allah the Almighty not desire for the Holy Prophetsa to be honoured in that despite so much abuse and profanity levelled against him, would He still not establish a heavenly movement [to combat it]? And would He not spread the grandeur and purity of the Holy Prophetsa throughout the world by silencing the opponents of Islam? And would he not do this despite the fact that He and His angels send salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa? Thus, at this time when the Holy Prophetsa is being dishonoured, it was necessary that He invoke this salutation upon him. And Allah the Almighty has indeed done this through the establishment of this Community.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 5, pp. 13-14)

Thus, as those who have accepted the Promised Messiahas and entered this Community, it is our responsibility to not

only reform our own moral conditions, but also send salutations [Durood] upon the Holy Prophetsa. Especially these days, there should be special attention paid to reciting Durood.

When we send Durood on the Holy Prophetsa as much as possible, we will be fulfilling the objective that the Promised Messiahas mentioned for establishing the honour and grandeur of the Holy Prophetsa

Furthermore, stating the purpose of his advent, the Promised Messiahas says:

“God sent me to re-establish the lost grandeur of the Holy Prophetsa and to demonstrate the truths of the Holy Quran to the world. All of this work is taking place, but those whose eyes are covered, cannot see. This movement is shining bright like the sun and there are so many people who are witnesses to its signs. If these signs are all gathered in one place, they will outnumber the troops of any emperor’s army.”

The Jalsas that are being held today across various countries of the world and the thousands of Ahmadis participating are also one of these signs.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“There are so many signs of the truthfulness of this movement that it is difficult to even mention them all. Since Islam was severely maligned, therefore, God Almighty demonstrated the greatness of Islam just as emphatically.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 5, p. 14)

Then, the Promised Messiahas says:

“This era also calls for a spiritual battle. The war with Satan has commenced and Satan is attacking the fortress of Islam with all his weapons and schemes and he desires to defeat Islam. However, God Almighty has established this Community in this era in order to defeat Satan once and for all in this last battle.”

Hence, this reminds every Ahmadi of their responsibilities. The Promised Messiahas states:

“Blessed are those who recognise this. Now there only remains a limited time in which one can receive blessings. Soon the time will come when God Almighty will illuminate the truth of this movement brighter than the sun. That will be a time when accepting faith will not be a means of spiritual reward, and doors to repentance shall close upon them. Whoever accepts me now must start a great fight against their inner self. They will see that at times they will have to leave their family and efforts will be made to obstruct their worldly pursuits. They will receive verbal abuse and be cursed, but they will be rewarded by God Almighty for all these things.”

The Promised Messiahas continues, “But when the other era will come and the world will become drawn to this movement, as forcefully as water falling from a high mount (i.e. when the era of success will come), and when no one will reject it, then what will be the point of profession belief at such a time? (What sort of acceptance will it be at such a time?) Accepting at that time will not be a courageous act. A reward is always given after a time of pain and sorrow.”

The Promised Messiahas then states, “When Hazrat Abu Bakrra accepted the Holy Prophetsa he gave up his authority in Mecca, yet God Almighty granted him a great kingdom in the earth. Hazrat Umarra then carried the mantle of humility and did so in a manner akin to [the Persian saying] i.e., ‘we have set sail in the water and whatever is destined will come to pass.’ When he accepted the Holy Prophetsa this was his condition, but did God Almighty withhold any part of the reward due to him? Not at all! If Man makes even the slightest of efforts for God, they do not leave this world without first being rewarded. However, the first condition is to make an effort. It is mentioned in a Hadith that when Man walks towards God, God runs to him. Faith means to believe in something that is unseen. A person who spots the crescent moon is considered to have a sharp eye (that is to say, if one sees the moon in its first phase they will be considered to have sharp eyesight) but a person who makes a clamour over spotting a full moon is considered mad.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 5, pp. 25-26)

Thus, fortunate are those who are accepting the Promised Messiahas today, and attain the love of Allah the Almighty after facing opposition. Then, whilst explaining that it is insufficient to merely profess acceptance, rather, the real purpose is to bring about a pious change and to tread on

the path of the Oneness of God, and it is only then that one becomes the recipient of His grace, the Promised Messiahas states: “One who searches for Allah the Almighty, purely out of fear of Him, and prays for the difficulties in this matter to be resolved, then according to the law of God Almighty:

انلبس مھنیدھنل انيف اودهاج نیذلاو

“‘And as for those who strive in Our path – We will surely guide them in Our ways.’ (Surah al-`Ankabut, Ch.29: V.70) He shall Himself take hold of their hand and show them the path and grant them satisfaction of heart. However, if their hearts are already filled with darkness, if prayer is cumbersome on their tongues, and if their beliefs are contaminated with idolatry and innovations, then what kind of prayer is this? What kind of plea is required to bring about a good outcome? Until one closes the doors to all unlawful paths and hopes, with a pious heart, sincerity and earnestness, and extends their hand towards God Almighty, they will never be worthy of receiving the succour and support of God Almighty. However, when they fall at the threshold of Allah the Almighty and pray to Him alone, then this state of theirs will attract His help and mercy. Allah the Almighty can see the depths of a person’s heart from the heavens, and if it contains even an iota of darkness, idolatry or innovation in any part of his heart, then their prayers and worship will be thrown back in their faces. But if He sees that their heart is pure of selfish desires and darkness, He shall open the doors of mercy to them, bring them under His shade and Himself be responsible for taking care of their needs.”

The Promised Messiahas states, “Allah the Almighty has established this Community with His own hands, and we see that many people join who have certain objectives. If their objective is met, then it is all well and good, otherwise, they are unheedful of their faith and belief.” Some people only pledge allegiance for a certain purpose. Whilst further expounding upon this, the Promised Messiahas states in another place:

“Selfish desires are a form of idolatry. They place a covering over one’s heart. Even if one pledges their allegiance [bai’at], it may still cause them to stumble. Our movement requires that one abandons all selfish desires, and they tread the path of perfect unity. They must earnestly search for the truth, otherwise, if there comes any change in what they desire, then at that time they will separate themselves. Was it for money and wealth that the companions accepted the Holy Prophetsa? No.”

The Promised Messiahas continues, “If one analyses the lives of the companions, they will not find a single such incident because they never did such a thing. Pledging allegiance to me means only to repent, whereas in the time they pledged allegiance, it meant being prepared to lose their lives (i.e. referring to the companions. I have narrated the accounts of the companions for a long period of time in the Friday sermons, in which it was mentioned how they would lay down their lives.) On the one hand, they would pledge their allegiance, and on the other hand, they would give up all their wealth, possessions, honour, respect, lives and property, as if they no longer had possession over anything, and their hopes

had been cut off from the world, and any desire they had for any sort of respect, honour and authority had finished. The thought did not even cross their minds that they would become rulers and conquerors of lands, rather, they distanced themselves from any kind of hopes and desires, and with full contentment. They were always prepared to endure every pain and suffering in the way of Allah the Almighty, to the extent that they were even ready to lay down their lives. Their state was such that they were absolutely cut off from this world, but it is a separate matter that Allah Almighty still granted them His bounties and favours; and chose those who sacrificed everything in His path.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 5, pp. 396-398 [with footnote])

Then, whilst giving further guidance that the purpose of establishing the community is to establish true unity and love for God Almighty, the Promised Messiahas states: “What does it mean to love God? It is to give precedence to the pleasure of Allah the Almighty over your parents, partners, children, yourselves, and everything else. It is stated in the Holy Quran,

“‘Celebrate the praises of Allah as you celebrated the praises of your fathers, or even more than that.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.201) It is worth noting that Allah Almighty did not reveal this injunction so that one calls God ‘father’. Rather, He taught this so that one does not stumble like the Christians and to stop the Muslims from calling God by the name ‘father’. If one then claims that the love of the father is then inferior, then this allegation is refuted by the words:

ارکذ دشا وا

“‘or even more than that.’ If ‘or even more than that’ was not present, then such an allegation could stand, but these words have resolved this issue.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, p. 188)

Thus, this is the love for Allah the Almighty that should be instilled in a believer’s heart; a love for God that destroys the love for all worldly ties. We should assess ourselves to see whether we are trying to develop this love within us. Do our hearts desire and yearn for this love? Whilst further expounding upon this love and its standards, the Promised Messiahas states:

“In order to establish the true Unity of God, it is imperative for one to fully experience the love of God Almighty. True love for Allah the Almighty can only be affirmed through action; a matter can never become pleasant and sweet simply by calling it sweet (nothing can become sweet simply by likening it to sugar). Similarly, if a person verbally claims to have an affinity for another, yet at a time of hardship and need, he does not come to the help and aid of his friend, then he is not a true friend. In the same way, to verbally affirm the Unity of God Almighty and claim to love Him is of no benefit; in such a matter, one must demonstrate this through their actions instead of making a verbal declaration. In no way does this mean that a verbal declaration is not necessary. Certainly not. What I mean to say is that a verbal declaration must be affirmed through one’s actions. For this reason, it is necessary that one devotes their life to God. That is to say, God Almighty should take precedence over

everything else; His commandments should take superiority over all other matters; the faith established by Him should be more important than everything else and its adherents should give precedence to it over all worldly matters.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“This is Islam, and this is the very purpose for which I have been sent. Thus, those who do not approach this spring that God Almighty has established for this grand purpose will be among the unfortunate ones. If a sincere seeker wishes to achieve his true purpose, he should advance towards the spring and drink from it. This cannot be accomplished without first completely disregarding one’s own sense of honour and falling at His Divine threshold. One must pledge that even if they lose their eminence in the world and face a mountain of troubles, they will not leave God.” No matter what happens, they will never forsake Allah the Almighty. “One must be prepared to offer every sacrifice for the sake of God Almighty. It was Abraham’sas exemplary sincerity that he was even prepared to sacrifice his son. The objective of Islam is to produce many such Abrahams. Thus, all of you should strive to become like Abraham. I tell you truthfully not to become mere disciples but saints. Endeavour to achieve this objective even if the journey is difficult.”

That is, one should strive to raise their own rank. One should not settle merely as a disciple and follower, rather, they should elevate their own rank to that of saints; others should regard them as pious individuals worthy of being followed. The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Endeavour to achieve this objective even if the journey is difficult. Ultimately, this journey ends in peace and comfort, however, it is necessary that you enter through its doors with minimal load. If you carry a large weight on your head, it will prove very difficult to enter.” In other words, this weight is the load of worldly desires and priorities that a person carries, whereby the world becomes more important than their faith. Thus, the journey becomes difficult. If one desires to make this journey, then the load of worldly ties that cause one to give precedence to the world over faith must be discarded. “If my community wishes to please God, then it should discard this load. You must remember that if you do not demonstrate devotion and sincerity, then you will be considered a liar and not a truthful person in the court of God Almighty. In such circumstances, one who abandons devotion for treachery will be destroyed even before the enemy. God Almighty cannot fall for deception, nor does anyone have the power to mislead Him. Thus, you must foster true sincerity and honesty.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, pp. 188-190)

Along with establishing the unity of God and instilling love for Him, it is also necessary to develop love for those beloved to God Almighty, through whom He imparted the teachings of His unity. Therefore, explaining the importance of building a relationship with the Holy Prophetsa and establishing his honour and greatness, the Promised Messiahas states:

“Allah the Almighty has established this community so that the prophethood and honour of the Holy Prophetsa can be re-established.” The Promised Messiahas

presents the example of those who are absorbed in the veneration of past saints and worship their graves. They claim to also be absorbed in their love for the Holy Prophetsa whilst at the same time they label us as disbelievers. They proclaim that, God forbid, Ahmadis are guilty of blasphemy against the Holy Prophetsa. In reference to such people, the Promised Messiahas states:

“If one declares one’s love for someone, yet there are thousands of other people whom they love in the same manner, what distinguishes their declaration of love from the others (if a lover declares his love, yet he has many other beloveds, then what is special about the one to whom he has professed his love)? If these people are truly devoted in their love for the Holy Prophetsa (those who claim that they love the Holy Prophetsa), then why do they worship countless shrines and tombs?” They devote themselves to many shrines and give offerings, offer prayers, and in fact, they also fall to prostration [to the graves].

The Promised Messiahas further states, “They travel to Madina but they also travel to Ajmer and other shrines with their heads uncovered and feet bare. They consider passing through the gate in Pakpattan [a city in Pakistan famous for the shrine of a saint] enough to attain salvation. Some have erected flags, while others have adopted other methods. A Muslim shudders at the sight of their gatherings and events, wondering what they have innovated.”

These practices are very common in the subcontinent, in India and in Pakistan.

“If God Almighty did not have any honour for Islam and had Himself not declared:

“[i.e., Surely, the true religion with Allah is Islam (Surah Aal-e-`Imran, Ch.3: V.20)]

“[i.e., Verily, We Ourselves have sent down this Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian. (Surah al-Hijr, Ch.15: V.10)], then Islam would surely have been destroyed today. On the contrary, Allah the Almighty’s honour manifested and His promise of mercy and protection demanded that someone be raised as a

reflection of the Holy Prophetsa and reestablish his prophethood in this era. Thus, God established this community and raised me as a prophet and the Mahdi.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, p. 92)

The Promised Messiahas states that he has been raised as a prophet and the Mahdi. Thus, it is our responsibility to clearly distinguish ourselves from all others and to demonstrate extraordinary standards of love for God and for the Holy Prophetsa Only then will we be able to fulfil our pledge of allegiance. We must try to continuously glorify God and invoke blessings upon the Holy Prophetsa

Whilst reminding us to try and develop sincerity and devotion the likes of the companions [of the Holy Prophetsa], the Promised Messiahas states:

“Since God Almighty established this community and has manifested thousands of signs in its support, He intended to make this community like that of the companions and bring about the era of Khair al-Qurun [Best of centuries]. Those who enter this community also become among the مھنم نیر�ا and so they should abandon their false practices.” To become an Ahmadi, one must rid themselves of all false practices and turn their full focus toward God Almighty. “They should be averse to the age of darkness, (i.e., the age of misguidance). Islam has passed through three eras: the first was the [enlightened] three centuries, followed by the period of misguidance regarding which the Holy Prophetsa referred to by saying:

مھنم تسلو ينم اوسيل

“That is, ‘the people of that period are not of me, nor am I of them’. The third era is that of the Promised Messiah, which is connected to the time of the Holy Prophetsa In fact, this era can be considered the era of the Holy Prophetsa himself. Even if the Holy Prophetsa had not mentioned the era of darkness, we possess the Holy Qur’an which states

مھب اوقحلی امل مھنم نیر�او

“This clearly demonstrates that there will be a time that will not resemble that of the companions. In other words, the people of that era will not follow the practice of the

companions. History tells us that during that period of a thousand years, Islam faced great challenges and adversities. The religion began to decay and except for a select few, the majority had abandoned Islam. As a result, many sects, like the Mu’tazilah and those who rejected the divine law emerged.”

The Promised Messiahas further states:

“I admit that there has never been an era that has been deprived of the blessings of Islam, however, the number of saints and pious people during this middle period was extremely low. Due to this, they were unable to stop millions of people who were misguided from the right path and left Islam. Thus, the Holy Prophetsa, through his prophetic insight, saw into that time and named it “Faij A’waj” - The Era of Misguidance. Now, however, Allah the Almighty has decided to establish a large community of people who will be counted amongst the companions. Nonetheless, because the laws of nature established by God Almighty decree that such a community of people can only see gradual progress, my community will also progress slowly, similar to that of crops. Just as crops grow slowly and flourish with time, so too will this community. And its purpose and objective can be likened to a seed that has been planted in the earth. The lofty objectives and lofty purposes that Allah the Almighty desires for this community are far away; they cannot be reached until this community develops the excellence that Allah the Almighty has willed for it; one’s declaration of the Unity of God should be in an excellent manner; their devotion to Allah and practice of remembering Him should be extraordinary; they should fulfil the rights of their brethren in a manner that is exceptional.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, pp. 94-95)

Hence, these are the objectives we must strive to accomplish. Only then can we witness the progression of our community. Then, whilst drawing our attention to pay particular focus on the recitation of the Holy Quran and to carefully ponder over it, the Promised Messiahas states:

“One ought to remember that the Holy Quran has conferred a favour upon the earlier divine scriptures and prophets by portraying their teachings in a rational

manner, whereas previously they were presented as mere tales. I truly say that no one can attain salvation from these tales and stories until they read the Holy Quran. This is because it is the Holy Quran alone that occupies the lofty status of being: لزھلاب وه امو۔ لصف لوقل هنا

“That is, “It is surely a decisive word. And it is not a useless talk.” (Surah at-Tariq, Ch.86: V.14-15)

“It is a balance, a guardian, a light, a means of cure and a mercy. Those who read the Holy Quran and deem it to be a mere tale, have not truly read the Holy Quran and instead have dishonoured it. Why have our opponents become so extreme in their opposition? This is because we seek to demonstrate that the Holy Quran, just as God Almighty has stated, is filled with spiritual light, wisdom and insight. However, they seek to reduce the importance of the Holy Quran as being nothing more than mere tales. We cannot allow this. Out of His sheer grace, God Almighty has revealed to me that the Holy Quran is a living and radiant book, hence, we do not give any consideration to their opposition. Thus, I have repeatedly advised those who have forged a bond with me that God Almighty has established this Community in order to reveal the truths that we can only attain through the Holy Qur’an. (We can only understand this through the Holy Quran.) Without this, all of one’s actions in life are completely devoid of spiritual light and radiance. I desire to reveal the qualities of Islam to the world through its practical truths and I have been appointed by God for this very purpose. Therefore, read the Holy Quran extensively, but not as mere tales, rather as a philosophy [of life].” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, p. 155)

Every Ahmadi ought to ponder over the meanings [of the Holy Quran] and its commentary. Then, whilst drawing attention towards virtuous deeds and what defines a virtuous deed, the Promised Messiahas states:

“In the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty has prescribed righteous deeds along with professing belief. An action is considered righteous when it is free from all blemishes. Always remember that thieves lie in wait to steal one’s actions. Who are they (i.e who are these thieves)? They are ostentation, (i.e. when one performs an action to show others,) vanity, (one becomes pleased with one’s own actions after performing them or that they have performed such and such virtue) and similarly many other types of vices and sins that one commits. These are all considered ‘thieves’ and they invalidate one’s deeds. Righteous deeds are those that are free from even the mere thought of injustice, pride, ostentation, arrogance and usurping the rights of others. Just as one can be safeguarded due to their righteous deeds in the hereafter, similarly, one can be safeguarded through them in this world as well.

“Even if one person in the household carries out righteous deeds, the entire household is saved. Remember that until one carries out righteous deeds, their faith is of no benefit. A physician writes a prescription and it means that whatever has been prescribed therein ought to be taken. However, if one fails to use those medications and just keeps the prescription, then it will have no benefit.”

It is our duty to act upon the advice of the Promised Messiahas. This is important otherwise there is no benefit of one’s bai’at The Promised Messiahas further states:

“You have sought repentance at this moment in time, now God Almighty wants to see how much you will purify yourself through this repentance. The time has come when God Almighty wishes to make righteousness a distinguishing factor. Many people harbour complaints against God Almighty, yet they do not look within themselves. It is the injustices of one’s own doings, otherwise God Almighty is Benevolent and Merciful.

“There are some individuals who are aware of sin, yet there are other individuals who are oblivious to it. For this very reason, God Almighty has ordained the recitation of  istighfar [seeking forgiveness].” One does not know when they might say something that would be counted as a sin. “Hence, one should recite istighfar for every sin, whether that sin is visible or concealed, whether they have knowledge of that sin or not. Similarly, they should recite  istighfar for the sins committed by their hands, feet, tongue, nose, ear and eyes. These days you should recite the prayer of Adamas, which is:

juncture and it is not possible that both a righteous and evil person remain in the same place. Certainly, it can only be the righteous who remain standing and the evil one shall be destroyed. Since only God knows who is righteous, one ought to be greatly concerned. Fortunate are those who are righteous and unfortunate is he who is distant from God.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, pp. 238-239)

Hence, we should always strive to seek forgiveness and repentance and to seek refuge in Allah the Almighty and to be safeguarded from Satan. The Promised Messiahas states:

passed away on 21 December [2022] at the age of 75.

نوعجر هيلا اناو هلل انا [Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

forgiveness and mercy. May He enable his progeny to always remain attached to the Jamaat and Khilafat.

“[Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves; and if Thou forgive us not and have not mercy on us, we shall surely be of the lost. (Surah al-A`raf, Ch.7: V.24)]

“This prayer has been accepted from its inception. Do not live your life heedlessly. A person who does not live heedlessly should have no worry for him to be placed in a great trial. No trial would befall an individual were it not for the will of God. As mentioned in the prayer that has been revealed to me:

[O my Lord everything serves You. So O my Lord, protect me and help me and have mercy on me.]

The Promised Messiahas advised us to also recite this prayer. The Promised Messiahas further states:

“Remember that wisdom comes about through the purification of the soul. The more one purifies their soul, the sharper one’s intellectual faculties become and an angel stands before such an individual and helps him. However, the mind of one who leads a life of sin can never be illuminated. Adopt righteousness for God is with you. Remain with the righteous, so that you may understand the true reality of righteousness. This is my objective and this is what I desire to establish in the world.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 4, pp. 274-276)

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Our Jamaat should always keep this advice in mind that they should remain mindful of what I say. I always reflect on the fact that worldly relationships are formed on the basis of beauty, family, wealth or power, etc. However, Allah the Almighty has no concern for this. He has clearly stated:

“Verily, the most honourable among you, in the sight of Allah, is he who is the most righteous among you. [Surah alHujurat, Ch.49: V.14]

“God shall only save the righteous and destroy the rest. This is a very delicate

“After entering this Community, you should become a completely new person and live a new life. You should become completely different from what you were previously. Do not think that after making this change in the way of Allah, you will be left destitute or that you will gain many opponents. The one who holds fast to God Almighty is never left in need and never experiences days of ill-fate. When God Almighty befriends someone, and becomes his Helper, he has no concern even if the entire world becomes his enemy. If ever trouble befalls a believer, he never suffers, rather, those days are days of bliss and paradise and the angels of God Almighty take him into their laps like a mother. God Almighty Himself becomes his Protector and Helper and God is He Who possesses power over everything, He is the Knower of the Unseen and the Ever-Living and the All-Sustaining. Can anyone who holds fast to God be afflicted with hardship? Certainly not. God Almighty saves His true servants in such times in such a manner that the world is left astonished. Was the world not astonished when Prophet Abrahamas was put in the fire and came out alive? Was Prophet Noahas and his followers being saved from the flood an ordinary event? There are countless such examples and in this present era, God Almighty has manifested the signs of His power. A murder case was filed against me and a very prominent priest, who is a doctor, was the plaintiff, and the Arya and other Muslims helped him. However, in the end, what came to pass was what God had decreed and my innocence was confirmed.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 3, pp. 263-264)

Allah the Almighty removed these charges and granted him honour.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to live our lives according to the advice and desire of the Promised Messiahas and may we truly bring about a pure change in our lives. The participants of the Jalsa in Qadian and in whichever other countries the Jalsas are taking place should especially spend their time praying. Pray that may Allah the Almighty enable us to fulfil the due rights of our bai’at. Similarly, every Ahmadi in the world should ponder whether they are fulfilling what the Promised Messiahas expected from us and the Jamaat. If we are not fulfilling this, then we must continually strive and pray for this. May Allah the Almighty give us all the opportunity to do this.

I shall now mention the details of some deceased members. Among these funerals, one is present here. Has the funeral arrived? The funeral that is present here is of Fazal Ahmad Dogar Sahib, who was serving in Jamia Ahmadiyya UK. He was the son of Chaudhry Allah Ditta Dogar Sahib. He

The deceased was a musi and leaves behind his wife, Uzmah Fazal Sahiba, four sons and three daughters. He came to the UK in 1992 and took up employment. In 1999, he dedicated [waqf] his life and presented his services to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh graciously accepted his waqf and he had the opportunity to personally serve Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh for a long time. Thereafter, I appointed him to the Jamia Ahmadiyya UK and he carried out various duties and was then appointed as the person in charge of its library and he continued to serve in this role till his demise. The deceased played a very important role in setting up and preparing the library in Jamia. He also scanned and did the binding of all the editions of The Review of Religions that were published during the time of the Promised Messiahas and had copies prepared for the library. Similarly, he also scanned the original editions of Ruhani Khaza’in and made copies available [for the library]. His children mention that it was a great desire of his that his children always remain attached to Khilafat and always remain obedient to Khilafat. He would say that one can never retire from the service of Jamaat. “Waqf” means to serve till one’s last breath and he would ask me to pray for him that he be granted the opportunity to serve till his last breath. Indeed, Allah the Almighty accepted this wish of his and two days prior to going to the hospital, he continued serving by going to the library.

Hafiz Mashood Sahib, who is serving as a teacher in Jamia, writes:

“If it was said that Fazal Dogar Sahib truly loved Khilafat and was loyal and ready to sacrifice his life for it, then there is no exaggeration in this whatsoever.”

He continues:

“Fazal Dogar Sahib was a true lifedevotee and we always saw him looking after and maintaining the library of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK as if it was like his own child. He would find old manuscripts and scan them and then beautifully have them bound and would then display them in the library. Undoubtedly, it is through his tireless efforts that the library of Jamia Ahmadiyya UK has a collection of more than 25,000 books and this was done despite extremely limited resources.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh also mentioned him in the sermon that he delivered on the occasion of the demise of my father, Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Mansoor Ahmad Sahib. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh expressed his gratitude to Fazal Dogar Sahib and praised his work.

He always served in the Jalsa duties. He served in Jalsa duties with me in Rabwah as well. I always saw him working with great effort and he would work day and night, without any concern for anything else. His son-in-law, Shahid Iqbal Sahib, who is Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya in Switzerland, or perhaps served previously, says, “Whenever I spoke to him, he would always ask whether I had offered my salat and he would always advise offering salat and draw particular attention to this.”

May Allah the Almighty grant him His

The second funeral is in absentia and is of Malik Mansoor Ahmad Umar Sahib, who was a missionary in Rabwah. He passed away recently at the age of 80. نوعجر هيلا اناو هلل انا [Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.]

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, he was a musi. He graduated from Jamia Ahmadiyya in 1970 and he also passed the Maulvi Fazil exam in Arabic. From 1971 to 1973, he studied at NUML University Islamabad, where he obtained a diploma in the German language. He initially served in various places in Pakistan and in January 1974 he was appointed to serve as a missionary in Germany. He served there for approximately a year and a half and then returned to Pakistan, where he served in various places. In October 1983, he was appointed to serve in Germany once again, where he had the opportunity to serve as the Amir and missionary-in-charge till 1986. During this period of service, he would teach the German language to the Ahmadis who were arriving in Germany to seek asylum and he would also assist them. He also served in the Rishta Nata department and he also taught the German language in Jamia. His total duration of service as a Waqf spans approximately 46 years. One of his daughters is Faiza Raees, who is the wife of Anees Raees Sahib, the missionary In-charge in Japan and one of his sons is Sabah-ul-Zafar Malik, who is a missionary. He has other children as well. May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy.

The third funeral is of respected Isa Joseph Sahib, who was serving as a mu’allim in The Gambia. This funeral is also in absentia. He recently passed away in December at the age of 61.

The Naib Amir and missionary-incharge [of The Gambia] writes that he was an extremely successful preacher. Although he did not graduate from Jamia Ahmadiyya, he was completely devoted to the Jamaat. He would always be ready to serve like a soldier. He would often say that he was a humble servant in the Promised Messiah’sas army and was ready to fulfil any instruction given by the Jamaat. During the Jalsa and other Jamaat programmes, he would always be with his Jamaat members and would help answer their questions and give them moral training. He further states that he would always admire the sacrifices rendered by the Ahmadis from Pakistan and would always pray for them and respect them. He had a very special bond with Khilafat. He would write for prayers and when he would receive replies, he would very lovingly mention this. He instilled the love for Khilafat amongst his children as well and would also advise them to write to the Khalifah of the time.

Syed Saeed Sahib, is a missionary currently serving in Sierra Leone and had previously served in The Gambia; he says that the deceased was born in Senegal, however, moved to The Gambia after completing his education in order to work. He taught French at the Nasir Ahmadiyya Secondary

School. It was during this time that he accepted Ahmadiyyat. He continued to excel in his loyalty and sincerity. In 1997, upon the instruction of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, all the central staff of the Jamaat had to leave The Gambia and he was appointed as the principal of the Nasir Ahmadiyya Secondary School. He served in this role in an outstanding manner. Later, he was made an area missionary and he continued to serve in this post till his demise.

Through the efforts of Isa Joseph Sahib many people entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat. He had a lot of religious knowledge. He acquired all of this knowledge through his personal study. He had very good relations with non-Ahmadis and thus many of the chief imams of the local areas respected him greatly. If anyone ever tried to oppose or create mischief against the Ahmadis in any area, some of these locals, who were goodnatured people, would come to defend them, and the opponents would be silenced.

He further writes that one of his qualities was that he was very knowledgeable. He had read extensively, as I mentioned earlier. He had a deep understanding of the Jamaat’s literature. He had the opportunity to deliver a speech on several occasions at Jalsa Salana and he also wrote many articles for Jamaat publications. Humility was one of his main attributes. He also possessed a very sound opinion and would always be consulted in important matters and his suggestions would often prove to be the correct. He was regular in offering his tahajjud prayer and devoted to worship. He would often experience true dreams and whenever anyone would request him for prayers, he would advise them to first write to the Khalifa of the time requesting prayers and then he would also pray for them as well.

A missionary of The Gambia, Masood Sahib says that he had great passion for tabligh. He would travel for many hours in order to visit far-off villages. He was extremely courteous and always smiling. Irrespective of whether he was going through times of happiness or sadness, or if he was ill or worried, he would always be smiling. He would meet everyone with a smile on his face. He would meet everyone in such a warm and friendly manner that the other person would feel as if he was his special friend. He was very compassionate, gentle and kind. He would never speak ill of anyone or interfere in anyone else’s affairs. He would show utmost obedience to his superiors. He would look after his subordinates and give them courage. Whenever someone wanted to get in contact with him, they would find out that in his spare time, he would be out doing tabligh He would have Quranic verses, ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa and quotes of the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa related to tabligh and tarbiyat and also the pictures of the Khulafa on his WhatsApp status and would update these daily and he would also send them to his Ahmadi and non-Ahmadi contacts. He had a great passion for tabligh May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and Mercy and enable his children to continue his good deeds.

As I mentioned earlier, I shall offer their funeral prayers after the Friday prayer, inshaAllah

January 2023, pp. 5-10.

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

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(Original Urdu transcript from Al Fazl International, 13

Translated by The Review of Religions.)