Al Hakam - 5 January 2024

The world in 2023: Can we close the Pandora’s box?

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A Muslim’s guide to meaningful New Year’s resolutions

Peace in 2024: Embracing harmony with divine guidance

A glimpse into the press coverage of some pre-partition Annual Conventions (Jalsa Salana) in Qadian

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024 | Issue CCCIII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7396

‘Muslims should rejoice the revival of Islam’ Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V delivers concluding address at Jalsa Salana Qadian 2023 Islamabad, Tilford, UK, 31 December 2023: At approximately 10:30 am local time, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, arrived at the Masroor Hall, Islamabad, UK, for the concluding session of Jalsa Salana Qadian 2023.

After his arrival, Huzooraa invited Abdul Momin Tahir Sahib to recite a portion of the Holy Quran. He recited verses 191 to 196 of Surah Aal-e-‘Imran and then presented its Urdu translation. Following this, Murtaza Mannan Sahib was called to present an Urdu poem composed by the Promised Messiahas expressing the blessings and favours of Allah the Almighty.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa then came to the podium to deliver the concluding address of Jalsa Salana Qadian 2023. After reciting tashahhud, ta‘awwuz and Surah alFatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “Today, the annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Qadian, India, is drawing to a close, and simultaneously, annual conventions are being held or are about to be held in various other countries. At this very moment, the closing sessions of annual conventions in Continued on next page >>

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

Obeying the ruler

َّ َ َّ َ ‫َﻋﻦ ﺑْﻦ‬ ‫ ﻋ ِﻦ‬،‫ﺎس‬ ‫اﻟﻨ ِ� ِّ� ﺻﻠﻰ‬ ‫ﺒ‬ ٍ ‫ِ ا ِ ﻋ‬ ٰ َ َ َ ‫ َﻣ ْﻦ ﻛ ِﺮ َه ِﻣ ْﻦ‬:‫ا��ّ� �ﻠﻴﻪ وﺳﻠﻢ ﻗﺎل‬ َ َ َ َْ َ ‫ ﻓ ِﺈﻧّ ُﻪ َﻣ ْﻦ‬،�ْ �ِ ‫�� ِه ﺷ ْﻴ ًﺌﺎ ﻓﻠ َﻴ ْﺼ‬ ِ ‫أ ِﻣ‬ ً َ َ َ ً ْ َ ْ ُّ َ َ َ َ ‫ﺧﺮج ِﻣﻦ‬ ‫ﻴﺘﺔ‬ ‫ﺎن ِﺷ��ا ﻣﺎت ِﻣ‬ ِ ‫اﻟﺴﻠﻄ‬ ً َ َ .‫ﺎﻫﻠِ ّﻴﺔ‬ ِ ‫ﺟ‬ Hazrat Ibn Abbasra narrated that the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Whoever disapproves of something from his amir [ruler] should show patience, for whoever disobeys the sultan even a little will die a death of jahiliyyah [pre-lslamic period of ignorance].’”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-fitan, Bab qawli n-nabiyy aallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallama: ‘satarawna ba‘di umuran tunkirunaha, Hadith 7053)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Conditions of bai‘at “Is there anyone among you who can claim that they have not witnessed any divine sign? I assert confidently that there is no one who has had the chance to be in our company and has not seen a fresh sign from Allah the Almighty with their own eyes. What our Jamaat essentially needs is an increase in faith, to cultivate a true conviction Continued on next page >>

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

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<< Continued from previous page

and understanding of Allah the Almighty, and to avoid any kind of sloth or indifference in performing virtuous acts. When one is lethargic, even performing ablution seems burdensome, let alone offering the tahajjud prayer. If the zeal for righteous deeds and the enthusiasm to strive for excellence in goodness are not kindled, then associating oneself with us is pointless.” (Al Hakam, 24 March 1903; Malfuzat [1988], Vol. 2, pp. 710–711)

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different countries, such as Senegal, Togo, Guinea-Conakry, and Guinea-Bissau, are taking place, and their live transmissions are ongoing. There is a two-way transmission; we can see them and they can see us. All this fulfils the promise made by Allah to the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, peace be upon him, that: “‘I shall make you famous with honour to the ends of the earth and shall exalt your name and shall put your love in the hearts of the people. We have made you Masih Ibn-e-Maryam [Messiah, son of Mary]. Tell them: I have come in the footsteps of Jesus.’

[Tadhkirah (English), p. 242] “Thus, the arrangement of these conventions in countries around the world, the calling of the name of the Promised Messiahas with respect and honour, and the slogan of his name, all are manifestations of this divine promise, affirming that he is the Promised Messiah and the Awaited Mahdi, as per the promise of Allah and the prophecies of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

Today, this small settlement of Qadian, which was just an ordinary village or town over a hundred years ago, has transformed into a beautiful city. Indeed, it has gained worldwide renown, and this fame is due to the name of the Promised Messiahas and the promise made to him by Allah.

“Today, in this town, residents from dozens of countries across the world have gathered to participate in the Jalsa Salana. At present, representatives from approximately 42 countries are there. There are people from Russian-speaking countries, Arab nations, African countries, Indonesia and other islands, as well as from the continents of Europe, America, and Australia. Thus, this is the beautiful fulfilment of the promises made by Allah the Exalted.

“A man residing in a small place, difficult to access and devoid of resources, claimed that Allah the Almighty had promised him, ‘I shall make you famous with honour.’ And then this promise is being magnificently fulfilled, because Allah the Almighty is fulfilling the prophecy made to the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa about the arrival of his most ardent devotee in the fourteenth century to initiate a new era of the revival of the religion [of Islam].

“Thus, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, peace be upon him, is the Promised Messiah and Mahdi who has come for the revival of faith and the completion of the propagation of Islam, in accordance with the promises of Allah the Almighty. Therefore, Muslims should rejoice that the era of the second advent of Islam has arrived, a time to overcome weaknesses and to spread and preach Islam. However, the selfish interests of so-called scholars are inciting them to mislead the general Muslim populace from the right path. But a time will come when they will have to acknowledge the truth.

This too is a promise of Allah the Almighty to the Promised Messiahas that ultimately, these people will believe.

“At this moment, I will speak about the mission of the Promised Messiahas in relation to the divine support he received.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then presented various excerpts from the writing of the Promised Messiahas in this regard.

The Promised Messiahas said: “The question naturally arises as to why the Promised Messiahas was to appear from among the Muslims. The answer is that Allah the Almighty has promised in the Holy Quran that the Holy Prophet’ssa Prophethood shall bear a close resemblance to the era of Mosesas, both with regard to its beginning and its end. The first of these similarities was with regard to the first era— the era of the Holy Prophetsa himself; and the other similarity was to appear in the Latter Days. The first similarity is that just as Mosesas was granted a final victory against Pharaoh and his hordes, so was the Holy Prophetsa granted a decisive victory against Abu Jahl—the Pharaoh of his age—and his hordes. God destroyed them all and established Islam in the Arabian peninsula, and with the help of God this prophecy came true: “‘Verily, We have sent to you a Messenger, who is a witness over you, even as We sent a Messenger to Pharaoh.’ (Surah Al-Muzzammil, Ch.73:V.16) “The similarity relating to the Latter Days is that God Almighty sent a Prophet in the last days of the Mosaic dispensation, who was against Jihad, had nothing to do with religious warfare, and preached forgiveness and mercy. And Jesusas had appeared at a time when the moral condition of Israelites had badly deteriorated and their character and conduct were thoroughly corrupted.

They had also lost their kingdom and lived under the dominion of the Roman Empire.

Jesusas had appeared at the turn of the fourteenth century after Mosesas, and since the chain of Israelite Prophets came to an end with him, he was as such the last link in the Israelite Prophethood. In the same manner, God has sent me in the spirit and character of Jesus son of Maryas, in these

Latter Days of the dispensation of the Holy Prophetsa, and has held in abeyance the practice of Jihad just as it was prophesied that it would be suspended at the time of the Promised Messiah.” (Lecture Sialkot, pp.

15-17) Huzooraa said that, at another place, the Promised Messiahas mentioned the prophecies of the Holy Quran that the Earth will give out its treasures and resources.

Consequently, this prophecy is also being fulfilled in many ways.

Huzooraa also said that the Promised Messiahas had further highlighted that the books’ spread and publication would increase. The nations will meet other nations and correspondences will advance.

Television and other technological advancements are examples of this fulfilment.

The Promised Messiahas mentioned: “One nation will meet another and build far-reaching relationships and trade alliances, and friendly relationships between distant countries will be fostered. And when people are brought together. This refers to the relations between various nations and countries. It means that, owing to the opening up of new routes, the availability of mailing services and the telegraph, mutual communication between people

for trains to move about. In addition, signs of general darkness were described and it was said: “When the Sun is wrapped up. Meaning that, the world will be engulfed in extreme darkness, ignorance, and sinfulness.

“And when the stars will be obscured; meaning that, when religious scholars will lose the light of sincerity.

“And when the stars will fall; meaning that, when divine scholars will pass away.

For, it is impossible that people should continue to inhabit the earth while stars fall.

Remember that the Gospel, too, contains a similar prophecy that the Promised Messiahas will descend at a time when stars will have fallen, and the Sun and the Moon will lose their light. To take these prophecies literally is against reason. No wise person would ever suggest that when the sun literally loses its light and the stars fall to the earth—and yet the earth is still populated with people as usual—that in this state of affairs, the Promised Messiahas should come. Then it was said: “When the heavens will be torn apart.

Similarly, it is also stated: “The Gospels, too, in the same way foretold the advent of the Promised Messiahas. But these verses do not mean that the heavens will be literally torn apart and

will increase. One nation will meet another and build far-reaching relationships and trade alliances, and friendly relationships between distant countries will be fostered.

“And when savages will be brought together with people. That is to say, savage nations will turn towards the civilized world and will develop humane values and decency. The lowly classes will be dignified with worldly ranks and prestige, and with the spread of material sciences and arts, there will remain no distinction between the nobles and the common people. Rather, the commoners will prevail and they will hold the keys to wealth; and control of the governments will be in their hands. The substance of this verse is similar to a hadith, too.

“And when the rivers will be split.

Meaning that, canals will sprawl the land and agriculture will boom.

“And when the mountains will be blown away, and in them tracks will be built for people travelling on foot or as passengers, or

its capacities will weaken. On the contrary, what is meant is that just as something torn becomes useless, so will the heavens become unproductive. Divine grace will no longer descend from the heavens and the world will be filled with darkness and ignorance.

Then, at another place it was said: “And when the Messengers will be brought at the appointed time. This, in fact, is an indication of the advent of the Promised Messiahas and the purpose is to state that he shall descend at the precise time of need. It must be remembered that in the Word of God, the term Rusul [Messengers] is also used for a single [Messenger] as well as for non-Messengers.

I have explained repeatedly that many of the Quranic verses encompass multiple meanings. It is established from the ahadith that the Holy Quran has both apparent and hidden meanings. Therefore, if Messengers are to gather on the Day of Judgement as witnesses, we accept and testify to that meaning. But at this place, after describing

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024 the woeful signs of the Latter Days, when it is added at the end that the Messengers will be brought at the appointed time, the context is indicating that after darkness reaches its height, God will send a Messenger of His so that judgement may be rendered for various nations.” (Testimony of the Holy Quran, pp.

32-37) Huzooraa stated that, the Promised Messiahas had also mentioned the ahadith which highlight these prophecies of the Holy Quran. The prophecy of she-camel being abandoned is mentioned in the Hadith and the Holy Quran. Huzooraa explained that the establishment of a train line between Mecca and Medina shows the fulfilment of this prophecy.

Huzooraa highlighted that all the Ahmadis sitting together and listening at the same time across the globe shows the fulfilment of God’s promises. The opponents of the Promised Messiahas should ponder over this fact and understand.

The Promised Messiahas said: “I care not the least about the various objections my people raise against me, and it would be utter infidelity on my part if I should abandon the path of truth for fear of them. They should think for themselves that God has endowed a man with intellectual insight from Himself, has shown him the way, has blessed him with His converse and discourse, and has manifested thousands of Signs to prove his truthfulness; how could he possibly turn his face away from that Sun of Truth, considering the dissenting opinion of an adversary to be something of any importance? Moreover, I am not perturbed by the fact that my opponents, both internal and external, are wholly dedicated to slandering me; for this, too, proves a miraculous Sign in my favour. The reason being that if I possess within me every kind of evil and I am, as they allege, a defaulter, a liar, an antichrist, an impostor, a deceiver and corrupt; if I have created a schism between the people; if I am a mischief monger, a transgressor and immoral; if I have imputed falsehood to God for almost thirty years, and used abusive language against good and righteous people; if in my soul there is nothing else but mischief, evil, malefaction, and selfishness; if I have set up a business for simply deceiving the world; if, according to them, God forbid, I do not even believe in God; if there is no evil that is not to be found in me and I possess all the sins of the world, and my soul is replete with every kind of wrongdoing; if I have usurped the wealth of many and abused many (who were as pure as angels); and if I have surpassed all in every evil and fraud; then what is the mystery behind this that—albeit I was the one who was evil, wicked, perfidious, and a liar—whenever a so-called ‘saintly’ person arose to confront me, he himself was destroyed; whosoever initiated a mubahalah [prayer duel] against me, he himself was ruined; whosoever cursed me, himself fell prey to his own curse; and whosoever filed a case against me in court, was himself defeated? You will witness the proofs of these occurrences, by way of illustration, in this very book. It should have thus happened at the time of such confrontations that I myself should have perished or been struck by lightning. Moreover, there would have been no need for anyone to stand up against me, for God Himself is the enemy of a criminal.

Hence—for God’s sake!—think why the

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contrary has occurred. Why did the ‘pious’ perish when opposing me, and why did God save me in every single confrontation? Does this not prove to be a miracle in my favour?

Therefore, I am grateful that even the evils which are [falsely] ascribed to me prove my own miraculous Sign.” (The Philosophy of Divine Revelation, pp. 2-3) In another place, the Promised Messiahas mentioned: “The membership of my Jamaat increased to more than 300,000 and hundreds of thousands of rupees poured in and many Christians and Hindus became Muslims through my preaching. Is this not, then, a Sign? Has this prophecy not been fulfilled? To allege that Sa‘dullah’s son is now

should remain deprived of every honour, but God caused thousands belonging to every echelon of society to submit to me with their heads bowed. He desired that I should die in his very lifetime and that my children too should die, but Allah the Exalted caused him to die in my lifetime and in the period from the day of this revelation He bestowed upon me three more sons. Thus, he died a death of frustration and disgrace. This, indeed, was what I had prophesied and it was fulfilled by the grace of Allah the Exalted.” (Ibid., p. 551-552) Huzooraa then mentioned that countless signs are still being fulfilled and that many people are being guided to Ahmadiyyat. The Ahmadis are being spiritually uplifted by

engaged to ‘Abdur-Rahim’s daughter and will soon be married and that children will be born, is wishful thinking and is just idle talk which is worth a laugh. And the answer to this also is that the promises of God can never remain unfulfilled. This point should be made after marriage takes place and a child is born too. As of now, integrity demands that they should ponder seriously how this prophecy which Allah the Exalted manifested through me has been fulfilled in the same manner as the prophecy: ‘It is not you but your slanderer who shall be issueless,’ made by the Holy Quran, was fulfilled. As I have already stated, twelve years ago, God revealed to me about him that: “‘It is not you but your slanderer who shall be issueless.’

“And the door to the birth of children for Sa‘dullah was closed after this revelation.

And Allah the Exalted, smiting his face with his own curses, granted me three sons after this revelation, and caused tens of millions of people to hold me in great esteem. The financial victories I was bestowed, both in cash and in kind, and the variety of gifts that I received, were so many that if put together they would fill up a number of rooms. Sa‘dullah desired that I should be abandoned and left alone with no one to keep me company. Hence, Allah the Exalted frustrated him in his design and caused many hundreds of thousands of people to become associated with me. He desired that people should not help me, but Allah the Exalted made him witness in his own lifetime how an entire world had turned to me to be of assistance to me. And Allah the Exalted helped me financially in such a manner as none else had been helped for hundreds of years. He had desired that I

the fulfilment of these signs.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then gave examples of a few incidents that showed God’s blessings and succour to Ahmadis.

An Ahmadi from Guinea-Bissau had a discourse with a person expressing that the Promised Messiahas is the Mahdi and the Messiah. The person did not accept.

Eventually, the Ahmadi said, “Whoever is in the wrong, God’s wrath be upon him.”

Consequently, it so happened that the said person was met with an accident, and seeing this sign, another person who had listened to this conversation accepted Ahmadiyyat.

In Tanzania, an Ahamdi new convert who was a farmer was struck with lightning during a thunderstorm. He could not stand up and implored God to save him as a sign of the truthfulness of Ahmadiyat.

Consequently, a person came out of nowhere, picked him up and he was saved

by Allah the Almighty.

Huzooraa expressed that only the pure of heart can understand such signs and benefit from them.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa further mentioned many other incidents that manifest that God Almighty continues to show signs of the truthfulness of Ahmadiyyat and the Promised Messiahas.

A person left his Christian faith and converted to Ahmadiyyat when he saw in a dream the faces of the Promised Messiahas and the present Khalifa, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa.

Huzooraa mentioned an incident of another person who studied the books of the Promised Messiahas and then, when he saw the Promised Messiahas in his dream encouraging him to do bai‘at, he converted to Ahmadiyyat.

A woman from Tanzania saw the

Promised Messiahas in her dream and when it was confirmed by an Ahmadi missionary that he was Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, she converted to Ahmadiyyat.

In Kyrgyzstan, a Muslim lady observed that his brother was progressing in the Islamic faith and he had an Ahmadi friend.

She saw that Ahmadi friend in her dream who was welcoming her to Ahmadiyyat.

Consequently, she accepted Ahmadiyyat.

Huzooraa went on to mention many other incidents that highlighted how God guided many people to Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa further said that the aforementioned incidents of Allah Almighty’s help are surely a testimony to the fact that the Promised Messiahas is the same Messiah and Mahdi who was prophesied by the Holy Prophetsa. Every Muslim should pray and beseech God to guide them to the right path.

Huzooraa stated that the Promised Messiahas had said that everything is possible before the King of the Heavens and the Earth. God Almighty promised that people would come from distant lands. This glad tiding was given at a time when nobody used to come. If a noble believer ponders over this fact, they can understand that only God is fulfilling it. The Promised Messiahas further said that this is a huge sign of God Almighty. This is indeed the blessings of God and no one else can do all this.

Huzooraa then drew the attention of the Ahmadis to strive to fulfil the purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiahas and said: “Today, all of you who are participating in the Jalsa in Qadian, and all those who are attending the Jalsa in their respective countries, are affirming that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, peace be upon him, is indeed the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, who came in accordance with the prophecy of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. With him has always been, and will always be, the support of Allah the Almighty, insha-Allah. Every Ahmadi should also pledge to tirelessly strive to fulfil the purpose of the mission of Hazrat Messiah, peace be upon him. Continually assess your external and internal states and strive to improve them.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa requested all to pray, especially for the people of Palestine, for the Muslims in general, for the Ahamdis of Pakistan, for those imprisoned because of their faith and for the end of injustice in the world. Moreover, Huzooraa emphasised praying for the people of the world to accept the Promised Messiahas and that they may understand the purpose of his advent.

In the end, Huzooraa announced that about 15 thousand attendees were present in the Jalsa of Qadian, India, and 42 countries were represented there.

Huzooraa prayed for the New Year to be a blessed year in every way and said: “May Allah bestow His mercy on the Muslim Ummah. May Allah grant progress to the Ahmadiyya Jamaat as well.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then led everyone in silent prayer. Huzooraa then permitted taranay (choral poems) to be recited.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa then conveyed his salaam and departed at 12:13 local time. With that, the Jalsa Salana Qadian 2023 came to a successful end.

(Reported by Al Hakam)

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This Week in History A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat 5 January 5 January 1900: On this day, Mirza Imam Din, a cousin of the Promised Messiahas, began to erect a brick wall to block the lane that led to the Mubarak Mosque from the south in Qadian. The wall was completed by 7 January. Huzoor’sas visitors and guests were all very much inconvenienced. If they wanted to offer prayers in the mosque or see him, they had to take a long route with which they were not familiar. The direct and most frequented way was then completely blocked. (Life of Ahmad, p. 698) 5 January 1945: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra instructed that every Ahmadi family must ensure that at least one person from their family devoted their lives to serving the Jamaat.

Huzoorra explained that the work of tabligh and spreading religion could not solely be done with finances; the efforts of people were also required.

(Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 26, p. 1) 5 January 2018: The then leader of the Liberal Democrats Party, Sir Vince Cable MP, visited the Baitul Futuh Mosque in Morden, UK, where he met Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa on

As soon as Talim-ul-Islam College was established, its reputation grew due to its teaching standards.

This had an effect not only on the province of Punjab but also on the whole country. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 9, p. 63)

7 January 7 January 1910: On this day, Hazrat Mir Qasim Alira, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, launched his paper Al Haq from Delhi. The name of the newspaper was granted

by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 3, p.

313) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivering an address at the inauguration of Baitul Ehsan

this day. Also present at the meeting was Sir Edward Davey, MP. Following the conclusion of their audience with Huzooraa, Sir Vince Cable and Sir Edward Davey were given a tour of the Baitul Futuh Mosque complex. (“Leader of Liberal Democrats Visits Baitul Futuh Mosque to Meet Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community”, www. pressahmadiyya.com)

6 January 6 January 1920: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra announced the collection of chanda for the London

Mosque. On the next morning, Huzoorra added that chanda should be collected from the Ahmadi women too. Ahmadis showed great zeal towards the appeal and by 10 June, 78,500 rupees were collected in cash.

(Tarikh Masjid Fazl London by Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ismael, 1929, pp. 20-21)

6 January 1945: On this day, Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh, then principal of Talim-ul-Islam College, was elected as a member of the academic council of Punjab University for 1945-46. The principals of the concerned intermediate colleges elected him unanimously.

7 January 1938: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a Friday Sermon from the Aqsa Mosque in Qadian, which was relayed through loudspeakers for the first time. On this occasion, Huzoorra also predicted that a day would come when a dars of the Holy Quran and hadith would be delivered from Qadian and simultaneously listened to across the world. The loudspeaker that was used on this date was donated by a devout member of the Jamaat from the North-West Frontier (NWF) region of the Indian subcontinent, Khan Muhammad Khan Sahib.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 7, p.

539) 7 January 2017: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa inaugurated the Baitul Ehsan Mosque in Mitcham, London. In addition to the prayer halls, the five-story building holds conference rooms, offices, and various other facilities. (“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Inaugurates New Mosque in Mitcham, London”, www. pressahmadiyya.com)

8 January

Sir Vince Cable & Sir Edward Davey meeting Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

8 January 1932: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra initiated a remarkable scheme for the propagation of Islam Ahmadiyyat and added that every year, there should be a large number of people entering the Jamaat from around the world. To achieve this noble goal, Huzoorra also stressed that Jamaat members had to unite, bridging any internal rifts. (Al Fazl,

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5 - 11 January

60th Jalsa Salana held in Mauritius Mushtaq Sooltangos Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Mauritius

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

14 January 1932)

8 January 1937: Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra predicted the looming Second World War during his Friday Sermon on this day and stressed the need for fervent prayers. It should be noted that these were warnings from almost two years before the outbreak of World War II in which Huzoorra explained the intensity of the situation the world was in at the time. (Khutbat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 18, p.6)

9 - 10 January 9 January 1970: On this day, while delivering his Friday sermon, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh expressed his desire that Jamaat should establish its stateof-the-art printing press and a radio station. (Khutbat-e-Nasir, Vol. 4, pp. 11-29) 10 January 1903: On this day, Maulvi Sanaullah of Amritsar reached Qadian. He was a Muslim cleric and a leading figure within the Ahl-e-Hadith movement. He was also a major antagonist of the Promised Messiahas. He served as the general secretary of Markazi Jami‘at Ahl-e-Hadith Hind from 1906 to 1947 and was the editor of Ahl-e-Hadees. (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, 1988, p. 683) 10 January 1962: Morarji Desai, Finance Minister of India, while on a visit to Batala, was presented with some literature of the Jamaat by an Ahmadi delegation, on this day. He later became the

fourth prime minister of India.

(Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 21, p.

606)

10 January 1968: Due to Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr, which was in December 1967, the previous year’s Jalsa had not been held. Thus, on this date, Jalsa Salana was held. During the night between 10 and 11 January, bakers, who were hired to prepare rotis (Indian flat bread) for the Jalsa Langar went on strike.

Huzoorrh appealed to every Ahmadi to eat only one roti. The total attendance was 100,000. Thus, even this roguish ploy could not hinder the programme of Jalsa Salana and all the programmes, by the grace of Allah, took place as planned. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 24, p. 465)

11 January 11 January 1935: The Jamaat was on scarce budgets and on this day Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra expressed the need for 16 bicycles to aid in a survey project around Qadian. The survey was to improve future tabligh activities.

Jamaat members responded with passion and a very large number of bicycles were donated. (Al Fazl Qadian, 24 January 1935) 11 January 2005: On this day, during his tour of Spain, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa visited Gibraltar and granted an audience to its governor. (Al Fazl International, 25 February 2005, pp. 11-12)

From 8 to 10 December 2023, Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Mauritius held its 60th Jalsa Salana at the SVICC, Les Pailles, Mauritius.

The Jalsa began on Friday afternoon with the flag hoisting ceremony by Mohammad Aniff Muslam Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Mauritius, followed by the Jummah prayer. Later in the afternoon, the live Friday Sermon of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was watched on MTA International.

The three-day programme was marked out by speeches on various subjects.

Various speeches were broadcast live on the YouTube channel of MTA Mauritius, and various departments of Jamaat Mauritius had their own stalls. Many other stalls were set up, such as Humanity First, Waqf-e-Nau, bookstall and a canteen. A devoted team, made up entirely of volunteers, served hot meals prepared on-site for the 2000 people present.

The Saturday afternoon session was reserved for non-Ahmadi guests. The theme of this session was #VoicesForPeace, a global campaign to end the war in Gaza, Ukraine and elsewhere and to establish lasting peace.

This year, the Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius, Honourable Louis Steven

Obeegadoo and the Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Xavier Luc Duval, were the guests of honour. The session began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem.

The Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Xavier Luc Duval, in his speech on the occasion, expressed his solidarity with the Israeli and Palestinian civilians who are suffering from the current conflict. He recalled his meeting with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during his visit to Mauritius in 2006. He was Minister of Government at the time, and he was impressed with Huzooraa.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Steven Obeegadoo, who was attending his first Jalsa Salana, thanked the Jamaat for its role since 1915 in building the Mauritian nation. He commended the Jamaat’s #VoicesForPeace initiative and the need for world peace.

Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Mauritius, Muhammad Aniff Muslam Sahib then addressed the audience, thanking the 65 guests for their presence. After a brief introduction of the Jamaat, he spoke about the #VoicesForPeace campaign.

Many guests expressed gratitude for the invitation, highlighting the uniqueness of the Jalsa experience and their appreciation for Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa analysis on achieving world peace.

‘Voices for Peace’ event held in Bordon, UK Syed Adeel Shah UK

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Whitehill and Bordon held an interfaith programme on 6 December 2023 in Bordon and invited all the surrounding locals. Over 100 people attended this event. The photos of this event were later published on the local social media channels, which consist of more than 17,000 people, and are being received positively.

The event commenced with the recitation from the Holy Quran with its translation, followed by a welcome address by the Chairman of East Hampshire District Council and talks by the local police, a Buddhist faith leader, a Hindu faith leader, a rabbi, a pastor and an Ahmadiyya Muslim missionary, Ataul Fatir Tahir Sahib.

An introduction to Islam Ahmadiyyat was presented by Khalil Yousuf Sahib, followed by a vote of thanks and silent prayer, led by Atta ul Quddus Sahib, Naib Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK. The feedback from attendees is as follows: Roger Leonard Macdivitt said, “It was a very all-inclusive event. As always, I felt welcome and was impressed by how nearly everyone had peace placed very high on their agenda. You are such good hosts.

Thank you.”

Sadie Robertshaw expressed, “Thanks for organising the programme for peace. It was a privilege to attend and I really enjoyed it.”

Lindsay Kelly shared, “On behalf of Curtis Bone, Dave Leach and myself, thank you very much for inviting us to your One World—Many Faiths event. It was a very informative and well-organised event.

Please pass on our thanks to everyone involved.”

Joulia Prothero-Thomas said, “We have just returned home from the One World— Many Faiths evening and wanted to write to thank you so much for a very enlightening and hope-filled evening for a better world.

The speakers and participants from all faiths give us hope that our children have a future in which we can all live in peace together.

We very much look forward to any other events/meetings etc., that will be held and hope that we can participate in them in the future. Once again, our thanks for a very enlightening and enjoyable evening.”

Sue Kelly said, “Thank you for inviting me as a guest to tonight’s Voices for Peace.

You had interesting speakers. We are all singing the same lyrics. Make peace with yourself first and the rest follows. If I can help again in any way, please feel free to contact me. I hope everyone found something useful.”

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

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A glimpse into the press coverage of some pre-partition Annual Conventions (Jalsa Salana) in Qadian ‘Islam shall prevail supreme over the world to give peace and prosperity to suffering humanity’ Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Al Hakam

Jalsa Salana is a blessed institution that was founded by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, to help his Jamaat achieve those heavenly objectives for which he was sent by Allah the Almighty.

Thus, in 1891, two years after the foundation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, the first Jalsa Salana was held in Qadian which was attended by 75 individuals.

Ever since its initiation, the institution of Jalsa Salana has made great progress, by the grace of Allah, and expanded to an enormous level due to the blessings of Khilafat. It has proved immensely beneficial for the moral and spiritual edification and advancement of members of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya. Moreover, it plays a major role in highlighting the Jamaat’s identity on the global horizon and in the same way, it is a manifestation of the ever-growing progress of the Jamaat.

The Jalsa Salana which was initiated by the Promised Messiahas is still prospering and being held in all parts of the world under the blessed guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, and many of those Jalsa gatherings are blessed with his presence as well.

Below are some newspaper articles mentioning the history and importance of Jalsa Salana, summaries of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’saa addresses at the early jalsas of Qadian, and an introduction of Ahmadiyyat and its missionary activities.

Community: Annual Gathering at Qadian”: “Qadian, Dec. 29.

“The annual gathering of the Ahmadiyya community opened its proceedings on December 26 and after three days’ work has closed. The small town of Qadian, away from a railway station, attracting about 16,000 visitors including 3,000 ladies.

“Hazrat Khalifat-ul-Masih[ra], head of the movement addressed the conference on December 27 and 28, denouncing the murder of Swami Shradanand. Speaking on the Hedjaz affairs he advised Musalmans to adopt an attitude of friendliness to the King of the Hedjaz and instead of useless threats, to back him up against his fanatic followers, who might force him to desecrate the tomb of the Holy Prophet[sa]. The Hedjaz must have a strong Muslim Government. [....]

“Reviewing the year’s progress Hazrat Khalifat-ul-Masih[ra] thanked the British Government for the protection given to Ahmadi missionaries abroad. A ladies’ conference with an Indian Industrial Exhibition, lectures, moving pictures and magic lantern lectures have been other important features of the 35th Ahmadiyya annual gathering.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 4 January 1927, p. 10)

Jalsa Salana 1927 Reporting on the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1927, the same newspaper wrote: “The proceedings of the 36th annual gathering of the Ahmadiyya Community were brought to a close on Thursday at Qadian.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 1 January 1928, p. 4)

Jalsa Salana 1925

Jalsa Salana 1934

Reporting on the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1925, The Civil and Military Gazette reported under the heading “Ahmadiyya Community: Proceedings at Qadian”: “Qadian, Batala, Dec. 28.

“Today is the last sitting of the annual gathering of the Ahmadiya community.

The number of visitors yesterday reached 12,000. Hazrat Khalifat-ul-Masih spoke for five hours. Among the speakers yesterday was Maulvi Abdul Rahim Nayyar[ra] of the London Lagos Mission, who thanked the Government for giving the Ahmadiya missionaries the same protection which the Christian missionaries enjoyed.

“The ladies’ conference, which has been attended by 3,000, has been a great success.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 30 December 1925, p. 3)

Mentioning the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1934, The Indian Express reported under the heading “Quadian Ahmadiyas to Meet: Annual Gathering at End of December”: “The annual gathering of Ahmadiyas of Qadian, a community numbering over a million and with missions in England, America, Africa and near and far East will meet at Qadian, Punjab on the 26th, 27th and 28th Dec. and will be addressed among others by the head of the community Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad[ra], Khalifatul Masih who is expected to make an important announcement regarding Ahmadiya policy in the light of recent developments following the recent Ahrar Conference at Qadian.

“About 20,000 including members outside the Qadiani community are expected to attend.

“Chaudhari Zafrullah Khan[ra], delegate to the Round Table Conference will deliver an address on socialism and the economic ideal of Islam and Ahmadiya missionaries

Jalsa Salana 1926 Reporting on the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1926, The Civil and Military Gazette reported under the heading “The Ahmadiyya

who have returned from England and Russia will also address the gathering.—A.P.” (The Indian Express, 12 December 1934, p. 3) The Civil and Military Gazette wrote under the heading “Annual Gathering of Ahmadiyas”: “Qadian, Dec. 26.

“The annual gathering of the Ahmadiyas opened here today when 15,000 people from all parts of India were present, including Chaudhri Zafrullah Khan, Chaudhri Muhammad Din, Revenue Member, Jaipur State, Professor Abdul Majid of Bhagalpur and Seth Abdulla Alladin.

“The gathering was inaugurated by the head of the Ahmadiyas who welcomed the delegates and visitors. He referred to the rapid growth of the Ahmadiya movement from an insignificant beginning.—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 27 December 1934, p. 7) The same newspapers wrote on the next day, under the heading “Ahmadiya Movement Defended: Detractors

Denounced”: “Qadian, Dec. 27.

“Large numbers of people are here in connection with the annual gathering of the Ahmadiyas. Professor Aslam of Government College, Lahore, delivered an address on ‘God and Morals.’

“Before a huge audience and in a tense atmosphere of excitement the head of the Ahmadiyas strongly denounced the campaign of vilification of the Ahmadiya movement and its Founder which, he said, would have created riots but for the peaceful attitude of the Ahmadiyas. They would not seek revenge.

“He said that the Ahmadiyas were accused of blaspheming the Prophet [Muhammadsa] but, he declared, they loved the Prophet [Muhammadsa] and had done more than anyone to spread his teachings in Europe, America and Africa. Their organisation was based on righteousness and peace.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1934, p. 5)

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024 Reporting on the proceedings of the third day, the same newspapers wrote under the heading “Economic Ideals of Islam: Ch. Zafrullah Khan’s Address at Qadian”: “Qadian, Dec. 28.

“Some 20,000 people attended the third day’s session of the Ahmadiya Conference, a feature of which was a striking address by Chaudhri Zafrullah Khan on ‘Socialism and the economic ideals of Islam.’

“He criticised Mr. Gandhi’s views on small industries and surveyed the arguments for and against the capitalistic and socialistic systems of society and said: “‘Islam effects a rapprochement between the two by its teachings. The Islamic law of inheritance. Its prohibitory injunctions against all interest, strikes and lock-outs, its creation of arbitration courts to decide labour and capital disputes, its institution of legal alms and provision against natural calamities created a form society which met all human and economic needs.’

“Another interesting address was given by a former Ahmadiya missionary in West Africa, who described the conditions of life there and the civilising effect of Islam.

“In his speech today, the Head of the Ahmadiyas referred to the great moral and spiritual awakening effected by the Founder of the Ahmadiya movement. The object of the Founders’ mission was to promote amicable relations among various communities, establish religion on a firm basis, raise the suppressed communities, bring about a union between East and West and gather all nations under Islam’s banner.

“A women’s conference was held separately. A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 29 December 1934, p. 5)

Jalsa Salana 1935 Announcing the dates of the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1935, the same newspaper wrote: “The annual gathering of the Ahmadiyya community will be held at Qadian, Punjab from December 25 to 27—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 20 December 1935, p.

8)

Jalsa Salana 1936 Mentioning the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1936, the same newspaper wrote under the heading “The Ahmadiya Community: Leader’s Survey of Progress—Address to 20,000 Pilgrims”: “Qadian, Dec. 28.

“Addressing about 20,000 pilgrims today, the head of the Ahmadiya community surveyed the progress made by the community in all walks of life and then passed on to the industrial ventures. such as carpentry, iron-smithy and boot making, started locally under the auspices of the new schemes department, which, he said, was receiving his personal attention.

“He told his followers that the avenues of Government employment had closed and that they should take to professions.

Unemployment was a vicious circle and the sooner it was ironed out the better. He wanted to see no Ahmadi youth gad about.

He called upon youths to work.

“He dwelt upon items in the new scheme, with special reference to the trust fund, which, if it amounted to five or six lakhs, he said, would confer upon the community the blessings of economic self-sufficiency.

“He said that there would be no doles or

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alms, except to complete cripples, Poor men and women, who were able-bodied would have to work. He exhorted his followers to learn the dignity of labour, and said that he was determined to wear homespun cloth to encourage cotton weaving. He advised his audience to build houses in Qadian.

“The address concluded at 6 p.m.

“Ahmadiya Ideals “Chaudhri Sir Mohd. Zafrullah Khan[ra] addressed a gathering of youths under the auspices of the Ahmadiya Fellowship of Youth. His subject was ‘The Ideals of Ahmadiya young men.’ He told his listeners that the ideal was contained in ‘Kalima.’

They must have an unalloyed belief in God and follow the Holy Prophet[sa]. They must cultivate the qualities of courage, selfsacrifice, truthfulness and self-reliance.

“He stressed the importance of physical culture, as sound and healthy bodies, he said, strengthened human virtues and made life worth living. Islamic virtues, he continued, had been given a new lease of life after the advent of the Prophet Ahmad[as] of Qadian. He advised his listeners to emulate their spiritual forefathers and to offer unquestioned obedience to the leader. His lecture lasted 90 minutes.—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 30 December 1936, p.

5)

The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1939

The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1937

Jalsa Salana 1937 Mentioning the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1937, the same newspaper reported under the heading “Ahmadiyya Conference: 46th Annual Session Opens at Qadian—History of Movement Outlined”: “Qadian, Dec. 27.

“With a stirring appeal to the audience to have confidence In the latent powers and wonderful capacities with which human nature was imbued and to trust in God, who was the giver of these powers, Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad[ra], head of the Ahmadiyya community, opened the 46th annual session of the Ahrnadiyya Conference on Sunday morning in the presence of a very large gathering.

“The session will continue for three days in the course of which the head of the community will deliver two addresses, the first of which comprises a review of last year’s work of the community, missionary and otherwise, and the programme for the coming year.

“The subject of the second address will be literary. Fifteen more lectures will be delivered. Prominent among the lectures are Sir Zafrulla Khan[ra], Commerce Member, Government of India; Qazi Mohd Aslam, Professor, Government College, Lahore; Dr. Mufti Mohd. Sadiq[ra], a former missionary in England and America; Mr. Abdur Rahim Dard[ra], a former missionary in England and Africa, and Maulvi Abul-Ata[ra], a missionary in Palestine and the Near East.

“After recitation from the Quran, the head of the Ahmadiyya community, in the course of his inaugural address, briefly discussed the rise and fall of nations.

Sacrifices and sufferings, he said, make a nation great. United front of opponents and sundry other trials and tribulations only go to tone up the validity and moral calibre of a living community, which has a grand mission before it.

“He recalled the humble origin of the annual gathering and its growth into an institution, attracting people from all

The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1946

The Indian Express, 12 December 1934

The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1934

The Civil and Military Gazette, 30 December 1925

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quarters of the world. The cosmopolitan character of the audience bore testimony to its increasing popularity.

“He exhorted his followers to have unfailing faith in the truth of their mission and let no spirit of defeatism mar their determination.

“The service of humanity, he said, was the great purpose of man’slife, which made it worth living.

“Sir Zafrullah Khan[ra], in the course of his speech on ‘the responsibilities of Ahmadiyya youth,’ exhorted young Ahmadis to train and equip themselves, intellectually and physically, for the battle of life, firstly, by fully understanding what their movement stood for and, secondly, by living clean lives. “‘Truthfulness, uprightness, punctuality, respect for law and authority, faithfulness to one’s obligations and above all, the realisation of the importance of time,’ he said, ‘are some of the qualities badly in need of being cultivated by our young men. Time is God’s most precious gift to man, more precious than air and light. It is the breath of life and should not, therefore, be wasted lightheartedly.’

“The Ahmadiyyas are a sect among Muslims whose distinctive feature is their missionary organisations in many countries. The head office is at Qadian and the head of the organisation is called Khalifa (successor to the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement) corresponding to the Khalifas of the Prophet Muhammad[sa], whose traditions they claim to have revived.

“The Ahmadiyyas claim to have a following of over 1,000,000, which they believe is quickly increasing as a result of their missionary activities bringing converts into their movement from every religion and from every country.

“Mostly living in India, the birthplace of the movement, the Ahmadiyyas claim to have co-religionists among the inhabitants of all Islamic countries, such as Afghanistan, Persia, Arabia, Syria, Palestine, Egypt and Turkey. Penetrating Europe, they have opened regular missions in Russia, Germany, Poland, Yugoslavia, Hungary and Spain.

“The centre of the movement in England is a mosque in London built at a cost of £5,000.

The foundation-stone of this mosque was laid by the present head of the community, Mirza Bashirud-Din Mahmud Ahmad, in 1924, when he visited England in connection with the World Religious Conference.

Besides this, the Ahmadiyyas have missions, schools and mosques in North and South America and Nigeria, Kenya, Tanganyika and many other places in Africa. In the East they have established missions at Sumatra, Java, the Straits Settlements, China and Japan.

“The annual conference, of which the present is the 46th session, was inaugurated by His Holiness Mirza Ghulam Ahmad[as] in 1891 and since then it has been held every year in Christmas Week, the only interruptions having been in 1893 and 1900.

“Started on a small scale, the conference has become very popular and every year, about 25,000 pilgrims go to Qadian from all parts of India, and abroad. Qadian, which is otherwise a small village with a population of 9,000, during the conference wears the appearance of town en jete, with tents, stalls and animal and industrial exhibitions. In view of the crowds which gathered every year during Christmas and—though on a smaller scale—during Easter, the railway authorities brought Qadian within the range of rail communication in 1928 by connecting it to Batala, 13 miles away.

“A separate, three-day conference for women is held in pardah. The gathering is generally well over 3,000.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1937, p. 5)

Jalsa Salana 1938 Reporting on the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1938, the same newspaper wrote under the heading “Annual Gathering of Ahmadiyas: Thousands Meet at Qadian”: “Qadian, Dec. 27.

“The annual gathering of the community began today. Thousands of Ahmadiyas from all parts of India and some from foreign countries have fore-gathered at Qadian to pay homage to and seek guidance from their leader, Hazrat Mirza Bashirud-Din Mahmud Ahmad[ra]. All these thousands, including a fairly large number of non-Ahmadiyas and non-Muslims. are being entertained as guests, the Central Organisation of the community attending to their comfort and board and lodging.

“The Lajna Imaillah (the Society for Women), is looking after the women visitors and a separate women’s conference is being held under its auspices today.

“The conference opened in a spacious pandal built to accommodate several thousands. Among those seated on the dais were Sir Mohamed Zafrullah Khan[ra], Nawab Mohammad Din, the Revenue Member of Jodhpur, Seth Abdullah Allahdin, Maulana Sher Ali[ra] and Mirza Bashir Ahmad[ra].

“In the course of his inaugural address, the head of the community referred to the uniform success that had attended their activities despite opposition. No power on earth, he said, could stem the tide of the onward march of the Ahmadiya community, which was destined to create a new order of things. They were determined to establish God’s Kingdom on earth.

“In the afternoon, the leader, in a stirring speech before the Khuddamul Ahmadiyat (the Servants of the Ahmadiyat Society), exhorted his young followers to be true, honest, punctual, persevering, brave and humble. He explained to them the value of discipline and unquestioning obedience to the orders of their leaders. “‘Let service to humanity be your Ideal,’ he added, ‘for there is no ideal nobler than this.’

“Professor Muhammad Aslam spoke on the unity of Godhood. The oneness of Godhood, he said, pre-supposed the oneness of humanity and this was why Islam laid down the basis of a vast brotherhood in which social status, lineage and pedigree did not count and in which service was the hallmark of respectability.

“Messrs. Muhammad Sadiq[ra], F. M. Sial[ra], M. Y. Arif and A. R. Dard[ra], all former Ahmadiya missionaries in England, delivered speeches, the last mentioned ‘My Impressions about the progress of Islam in England.’ His stay of six years in England, he said, had convinced him of the very bright future for Islam in that country. A drift towards ideals and principles more akin to those of Islam than any other religious system was visible.

“A distinctive feature of this year’s conference is that, of the 14 speakers, 12 have been to England, America, West Africa.

Palestine, Syria and Egypt as Ahmadiya missionaries—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1938, p. 16)

Golden Jubilee Jalsa 1939 Mentioning the Golden Jubilee Jalsa of 1939, the same newspaper wrote under the heading “Golden Jubilee of Ahmadiya Movement: Qadian Celebrations”: “The golden jubilee of the Ahmadiya movement and the silver jubilee of its head, Khalifa Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad[ra], will be celebrated at Qadian during the next few days.

“A spacious pandal has been constructed and volunteers are working to ensure comfort for thousands of Ahmadiyas who are coming from all parts of India and foreign countries.

Simultaneously a women’s conference will be held.

“At 10-45 this morning amidst the shouts of community slogans the head of the Ahmadiyas entered the pandal and declared the conference open. He referred to the progress made by the community during the past 25 years and particularly mentioned the work of the missionaries in Foreign countries. He said that

through the combined and collective efforts of the Ahmadiyas Islam would advance to its destined and promised goal of bringing about a new and better social order on the ashes of the present corrupt and decadent system.

“Among those present today were Sir Muhammad Zafrullah Khan, Nawab Mohammad Din, and Nawab Akbar Yar Jung Bahadur.—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1939, p. 3) The Dundee Evening Telegraph wrote under the heading “Indian Leader Urges Support for Britain”: “Unqualified and unstinted support of Britain in the prosecution of the war was urged today by Mr Mirza Bashir[-ud-Din Mahmud] Ahmed, head of the Ahmadiya community.

“He was speaking at a conference at Quadian, at which the golden jubilee of the Ahmadiya movement was being celebrated.

“Mr Mirza Bashir Ahmed” criticised “‘the foolish notion that England’s difficulty was India’s opportunity.’” (Dundee Evening Telegraph, 29 December 1939, p. 1) The same news was published by Coventry Evening Telegraph, Derby Daily Telegraph, Nottingham Journal, Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette, Newcastle Evening Chronicle, Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, Grimsby Daily Telegraph, Belfast Telegraph, Leicester Daily Mercury, Bristol Evening Post, Leicester Evening Mail, Shields Daily News, Halifax Evening Courier, Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph, Liverpool Evening Express, Belfast News-Letter, Huddersfield Daily Examiner, and Torbay Express and South Devon Echo.

The Civil and Military Gazette reported under the heading “Dictatorship and Khilafat: Sir M. Zafrullah Khan Explains Difference”: “‘Difference between dictatorship and Islamic Khilafat’ was the subject of an interesting lecture delivered by Chowdhuri Sir M. Zafrullah Khan at the open session of the Ahmadiyya annual gathering at Qadian on Wednesday.

“Addressing the gathering, he said that

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra hoisting the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat at the Golden Jubilee Jalsa of 1939

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024 it should be borne in mind that being a synthesis of all constitutions, incorporating in itself all that was good in them, Islamic Khilafat neither resembled any of them nor was adequately describable by constitutional terms commonly understood. The essential and fundamental difference between dictatorship and Khilafat was that whereas a dictator was law unto himself, an Islamic Khalifa was bound by Islamic law and could not change or override it. All powers and resources of an Islamic Khalifa were devoted to the achievement of ideals, fixed

by Islamic Shariyyat but a dictator’s ideals were of his own conception.

“On Tuesday night, Maulvi Ata-urRahman, Director of Public Instructions, Assam, delivered a lecture on the spirit of Ahmadiyat. Sir Mohd. Zafrullah Khan was in the Chair. He said that the Ahmadiyya movement was neither a system of religion nor a code of ethics, but the new orientation of life for Muslims in the present time. He added that the revivalism symbolised by the Ahmadiyya movement was not man-made but divinely inspired.—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 29 December 1939, p. 4)

Jalsa Salana 1941 Reporting on the Jalsa Salana 1941, the same newspaper reported under the heading “Enemy Knocking at India’s Door”: “Qadian, Dec. 27.

“A call to the Ahmediyya community to offer their wholehearted cooperation in the prosecution of the war was made by Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmood Ahmad, the Head of the Ahmadiyya community, addressing the Ahmadiyya Annual Conference today. “‘These are very critical times,’ said Mirza Bashir-ud-Din; ‘war is knocking at India’s door. Events have taken a very serious turn.

The enemy is powerful and India is almost unarmed. The impact of war may unhinge the whole life of the country. Dangerous days are ahead and our duty is clear. [Indian peoples’] destinies seem to be inseparably linked with the British Government. We should give our wholehearted cooperation in the war effort.’

“He deplored the lack of spirit in the people to face the impending menace, which, he said, was due to the benevolent indifference of the Government to the genuine needs of India’s defence. “‘Speaking on ‘Our duties in the Present World Crisis,’ Sir Muhammad Zafrulla Khan said that, long before the present conflagration, the like of which man had not witnessed before, overtook the world, political thinkers and those gifted with

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spiritual insight to foresee and foretell coming events, had perceived that the West was heading towards a catastrophe. Western political, social and economic systems, having outlived their usefulness, were destined to die.

“The old order, he added, had gone never to return and on its ashes and out of humanity’s pains and affliction would emerge a new order very different and vastly superior to the present one.

“God in his all-pervading wisdom, continued Sir Muhammad, had decreed that, being eminently fitted on account of its vast area and being the homeland of many faiths and cultures and peoples, India should play a leading role in building the new order.

“Sir Muhammad exhorted the audience to be watchful and ready to contribute their share to the building of that order lest when the appointed hour came, they should be found wanting.

“Young men of courage, vision and conscience were needed. They help create a new and better state of things by selfless service, suffering, and sacrifice and by living up to those noble principles and ideals on which, as envisaged by Islam and the Ahmadiyya movement, future order would be broadbased.—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 30 December 1941, p. 6)

Jalsa Salana 1944 Mentioning the Jalsa Salana 1944, the same newspaper reported under the heading “Future of England and India”: “The future of England and India is inseparably linked for a long time to come, and the one cannot do without the other. “‘Let India forget her vendetta against England and England shed her imperialism in India,’ declared Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, head of the Ahmadiyya community, addressing the annual meeting of the community at Qadian on Thursday. “‘If England and India do not come to terms,’ he added, ‘both will go under, because much greater issues are at stake than either the freedom of India or England’s imperialist interests. “‘The Teheran Conference should open one’s eyes to the dangers ahead.’

“He also strongly advised Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs to learn to live like brothers, because their quarrels are a mere storm in a tea-cup in comparison with the international storm that is brewing and threatens to engulf the whole of mankind.

“The Mirza Sahib further said: “‘I have no love for the Unionist Party

The Civil and Military Gazette, 4 January 1927

or the Punjab Muslim League, because both are opportunist. “‘Ahmadi Government officials should have nothing to do with either of them. “‘The one party has no real politics—the other has bad politics. “‘But I offer from this platform,’ he said, ‘full and unqualified cooperation and support to effect peace between Muslims and non-Muslims and between India and England, because I am a man of peace and also because the critical times ahead demand it.’

“The Mirza Sahib then briefly surveyed the activities of the Ahmadiyya community in the past year and sketched a programme for missionary expansion, economic uplift, and educational progress of the community. “‘Next year,’ he said, ‘the Holy Quran will be translated into seven European languages and Ahmadiyya mosques will be built in all the provincial capitals in India.’—A.P.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 29 December 1944, p. 7)

Jalsa Salana 1946 Announcing the Jalsa Salana Qadian 1946 — the last Jalsa Salana Qadian which was graced with the presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra — the same newspaper wrote under the heading “Ahmadiyya Conference”: “The annual Ahmadiyya Conference at Qadian will be held from December 26 to 28. The head of the Ahmadiyya community [Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmadra], Sir Zafrullah Khan, and Maulana J. D. Shams, former Imam of the London Mosque, among others, will attend the conference.” (The Civil and Military Gazette, 24 December 1946, p. 15) Mentioning the Jalsa proceedings, the same newspaper reported under the heading “Annual General Meeting of Ahmadiyyas: Qadiani Head’s Message”: “Qadian, Dec. 27.—The Annual General Meeting of the Anjuman-e-Ahmadiyya,

The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1938

Qadian, opened at Qadian yesterday with a short address by the head of the Ahmadiyya community. “‘Human inventions made for progress and prosperity are turning to destruction but man must survive to fulfil the work of God that Islam shall prevail supreme over the world to give peace and prosperity to suffering humanity.’

“This was the message of hope given by the head of the Ahmadiyya community.

“Proceedings will continue for three days.

“Among other Speakers will be Maulvi Shamas, back after 10 years missionary work in London; Sir Mohammad Zafarullah Khan, and many scholars and missionaries.”

(The Civil and Military Gazette, 28 December 1946, p. 5)

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

10

The world in 2023: Can we close the Pandora’s box?

Rameen Masood Leicester, UK

As we come to the end of 2023 and enter 2024, I reflect on the lack of peace widespread across the world. It makes me wonder whether we’re heading towards a dystopian society. Perhaps not yet quite as strict as depicted in novels like 1984 and The Hunger Games, but could the underlying principle be somewhat reflected in the reality of the world today? Are we succumbing to anti-heroic traits like violence, war and injustice? Are we being controlled by power, by materialistic desires over the inherent nature of mankind? It is an interesting point to ponder.

I would say the worldly powers, driven by their relentless pursuit of authority, have opened a contemporary Pandora’s box.

Pandora’s Box relates to a parable from Greek mythology where Pandora opens a forbidden box, releasing all the evil spirits and miseries into the world and discovering that something remains inside.

With each unjust decision someone in authority makes, the lid of the box creaks a little wider, staining the tapestry of society with the indelible ink of indifference. It unleashes not mere shadows but the stark realities of suffering and how the architects of societal structure seem to disregard the predicament of the defenceless. I distinctly remember sitting in my Year 9 History lesson five years ago, learning about World War II and discussing how the war could have been prevented. What use is reminiscing when we can’t learn from the past and prevent the same mistakes from recurring?

The coveted position of power has caused many to overlook the suffering of their fellow human beings and have mercilessly drowned out their pleas for help. Peace and justice remain nothing but the fatalities of

Image: Library

this unrestrained ambition, sacrificed at the altar of inhumaneness.

An example of this is the heart-breaking situation in Gaza. I guess some are under the misconception that this war is not their matter. But they fail to realise that this war’s rippling effects are not just confined to now. They will unfold further and shape not only lives but centuries; displaced people, orphans, and broken families.

Young children will grow up suffering from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which, in the medical world, are traumatic events that can impact a child’s future life not only emotionally but physically as well.

The children, who should be encompassed by education and fun activities, are living with a constant fear of death. The dreams they had cherished for so long are now forgotten, oppressed and buried. We can’t even imagine what that must feel like. We must protect the children of today and the future generations. Innocent lives matter, and they will always matter.

So, now that the Pandora’s box has been

opened, what is the one thing that remains?

Hope.

Pandora’s parable highlights that there is always hope, no matter how desolate a situation becomes. And so I ask, can we not live amiably as humans? Is this too much to ask? Why are homo sapiens the biggest foes of homo sapiens? When the inherent nature of being human binds all of us. The other day, I was reading the book A Message of Peace by the Promised Messiahas, and it beautifully encapsulates how humans should be brimming with compassion for each other. The Promised Messiahas writes: “[A] human being without the faculty of compassion is no human at all. Our God has never discriminated between one people and another. This is illustrated by the fact that all the potentials and capabilities which have been granted to the Aryans have also been granted to the races inhabiting Arabia, Persia, Syria, China, Japan, Europe and America.” (A Message of Peace [English], p.

6) When God Almighty Himself hasn’t

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discriminated between people, who are we mere humans to discriminate against each other? The attributes of God, especially His attribute of Lord of all the Worlds, are a testimony that at the crux of it all, before religion, ethnicity, creed, and before anything, all creation is under the Supreme Creator. The Promised Messiahas further elucidates: “These attributes of God teach us the lesson that we, too, should behave magnanimously and kindly towards our fellow human beings and should not be petty of heart and illiberal.” (Ibid.)

So, what must happen now?

An immediate ceasefire.

For those in authority, I ask you to restore peace. To do whatever is in your capacity to curb the flames of this terror. Don’t think you will be immune to them because these atrocities will not be confined to one area.

They will find their way to you, too.

O Muslim countries! Unite, unite and unite! Do you not feel for your fellow brothers and sisters? Whose hearts beat in the same way as yours, whose minds hope in the same way as yours, whose lives hold the same importance as yours?

What is the point of a life that lives to afflict rather than heal the afflicted? What is the point of a life that isn’t of service to your fellow brothers and sisters?

We must save our world from crippling.

The shadows cast by the malice of power threaten to eclipse the very foundations upon which our societies stand. We must close Pandora’s box before it’s too late, and we’re left with nothing but the remains of our world – our humanity.

As we enter the new year, let’s continue praying and playing our parts to let the rays of hope shine forth luminously.

May Allah the Almighty, who is AsSalam and Al-Mu’min, bestow peace and security on all suffering souls. O Lord of all the Worlds, have mercy upon us all. Amin.

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024

11

Peace in 2024 Embracing harmony with divine guidance Gaël Gaborel - OrbisTerrae | Unsplash

Dr Nasim Rehmatullah Naib Amir USA

The current world chaos, disorder and confusion highlight a widespread failure in global leadership and societal values, played back endlessly on a loop. This reflects broader societal challenges where many fail to uphold responsible behaviour.

It arrives when our civic culture has become so debased that many nations are currently struggling to uphold the virtues necessary for responsible leadership and governance.

Rationality, reason, and knowledge are not enough to stem the tide of this cultural pathology of faithlessness, immorality, and flaunting deviancy. Many of our elected politicians are an affront to the basic standards of honesty, virtue and citizenship.

The Holy Quran refers to such a state and warns: “And when We intend to destroy a township, We address Our commandment to its rebellious people, but they transgress therein; so the sentence [of punishment] becomes due against it, and We destroy it with utter destruction.” (Surah Bani Isra’il, Ch.17:V.17) It has been the Divine practice to have good and evil coexist. Each needs a point of reference. When a threshold of defiance, depravity, and deviancy is triggered, divine admonition and guidance are the only ways to free ourselves from the cage of wickedness and adopt righteous behaviour. The Quran spells it out as: “Verily, Allah enjoins justice,

and the doing of good to others; and giving like kindred; and forbids indecency, and manifest evil, and wrongful transgression.

He admonished you that you may take heed.” (Surah an-Nahl, Ch.16: V.91) Now is the time we shed our ambivalence and work on drastic self-improvement and fostering a culture of responsibility and virtue in our environments. It is a struggle against the negative tendencies that can arise in any human. The question is not how the righteous will gain victory over the unrighteous or how the good will triumph over evil but how the evil in every good and unrighteousness of the righteous is to be overcome. The goal is to trounce pious hypocrisy and sanctimony. Till we recognise and believe that all human life is equal and there is justice, dignity, equity and respect for all, we will fail. Hate is a plentiful resource.

It is endlessly renewable. Just because we have a legal right to say and do something does not mean we have a moral right to do so. We must exercise courageous restraint to refrain from irresponsible speech and reckless behaviour.

Peace is not the mere absence of trouble—it requires the presence of God in our lives. Secular laws alone cannot bring about peace and justice on Earth.

While secular governance is important, without personal godliness, it is incomplete.

Morality cannot be legislated. Secular laws cannot hold accountable those who wage illegal wars in which hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians die. It is only a fear

of God, and recognition of our ultimate responsibility and accountability, that can prevent such heinous acts. To know God is to know each of us has a fundamental responsibility to serve all humanity, and a fundamental obligation to constantly selfreform and self-reflect. This is the purpose of our lives. Till we recognise that all human life is equal and there is justice, dignity, equity and respect for all, there will be no peace.

It is incumbent on all of us, Muslims, non-Muslims, believers and non-believers, to shed our ambivalence and stop all forms of hypocrisy. The world is too small, our wisdom too limited, and our time here too short to waste any more of it on winning fleeting victories at others’ expense. After all, war does not decide who is right, only who is left.

Leadership matters profoundly. The world benefits from leaders who shape positive societal narratives and challenge the self-destructive and dehumanising trends in our society. Such leaders do this by speaking out boldly, raising awareness, and emphasising the consequences of our words and actions. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, epitomised this ideal. He revived the world through his prayers and pleadings in the dark of night. Following his legacy, throughout early Islamic history as well as in the present era of the revival of Islam at the hands of the Promised Messiahas, the rightly-guided caliphs have consistently exemplified these noble ideals and continue

to do so.

President Lincoln, in proclaiming a National Fast Day on 30 March 1863, aptly said, “And, insomuch as we know that, by His divine law, nations like individuals are subjected to punishments and chastisements in this world, may we not justly fear that the awful calamity of civil war [... ] may be but a punishment, inflicted upon us, for our presumptuous sins […]. We have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace […] and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too selfsufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.” (“Proclamation Appointing a National Fast Day”, www. abrahamlincolnonline.org) If there is any hope for civilisation – for an uplifting, ennobling and worthwhile human community – to emerge from the current cacophony of strife, debasement, nihilism and fanaticism, we must all revert to God and reform ourselves. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, a man of God and God’s man on earth, is calling us all to come to God and to adopt a life of prayers, love and compassion.

Let us follow the voice that calls us in the name of God. Let us not pick a fight with God.

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

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A Muslim’s guide to meaningful New Year’s resolutions Asif Arif USA

With the onset of each new year, the world buzzes with excitement, and calls for global peace abound. The customary “Happy New Year and wish you good health” resonates with everybody. Yet, as Muslims, we are called upon to go beyond mere resolutions.

Our outlook on life must necessarily align with the state of the world. Rather than settle for resolutions, we must take concrete actions to progress spiritually.

Every Ahmadi Muslim recalls an incident recounted by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, the fourth Caliph of the Promised Messiahas. He was at a train station when midnight struck, unfurling his prayer mat to pray for the new year and the state of the world. At that moment, a tearful individual approached him, expressing gratitude that, amidst a world indulging in revelry and intoxication, he was the first person seen remembering the Creator. (Friday Sermon, 20 August 1982, Khutbat-e-Tahir, Vol. 1, pp.

119-120) In a world dominated by materialism and atheism, the remembrance [zikr] of God is notably absent from people’s New Year resolutions. Contrarily, wishes would revolve around a new year of “happiness,” abundant wealth, and peace. However, it is evident that as the years pass, our happiness dwindles (as seen in depression statistics), the “wealthy” world is heading towards impoverishment, and peace appears to be a distant concept that few may encounter.

While this observation is rather bleak, God has not left the believer without tools to counter the gloomy atmosphere. In the Holy Quran, God states, “Aye! it is in the

Image: Library

remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort.” (Surah ar-Ra‘ad, Ch.13: V.29) Though seemingly simple, this statement is infused with profound wisdom whose contours are challenging to trace due to its depth.

As Muslims, if we decide in this new year to find tranquility in the remembrance of God, we naturally attract happiness.

This requires some elucidation. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa advised always maintaining an optimistic view of life.

(Sahih Ibn Hibban, Hadith 896) In the face of the greatest battles, he displayed unwavering optimism. Contentment with what we have, not aspiring for more but constantly looking at those with less and thanking God for what He has given us, is a crucial step towards happiness. Uttering “Alhamdolilah” (all praise belongs to Allah) should not be dismissed as mere rhetoric; it is, in fact, a first step towards happiness as

we are content with what Allah has bestowed upon us, avoiding the constant pursuit of hypothetical and materialistic happiness.

Furthermore, the pious wish for a year rich in fortune and material wealth has, over the years, demonstrated that global poverty is increasing while a tiny minority becomes richer. Following a single verse in the Holy Quran that urges believers to remember Allah, we learn to be content with what Allah has given us. By doing so, we not only refrain from envying a wealthier neighbour with materialistic intentions, but we also attract the satisfaction of God, who, in His great mercy, may reward us with even more wealth. If we seek worldly riches independently, this pursuit is futile and leads to a mirage of prosperity.

Another common resolution is the hope for peace in the world. However, the world seems to be moving in the opposite direction. World powers follow typical

recipes that create and perpetuate disorder on Earth. Our beloved Imam, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, constantly emphasises this, yet few leaders heed the call. Again, by following the Quran’s injunction to remember Allah and seek His forgiveness and mercy, we can establish inner peace, which may lead to external peace.

Finally, in all our resolutions, we also wish for excellent health. However, in Surah at-Taubah, verse 116, God says, “Surely, it is Allah to Whom belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth.

He gives life and causes death. And you have no friend nor helper beside Allah.”

This verse implies several consequences.

When ill, we tend to remember neglected family members or place our trust in Allah.

However, these family members may resent being contacted only during sickness, and doctors may offer a professional diagnosis from an anatomical perspective. Allah reminds us that throughout our lives and at our deaths, we have no friends other than Him. Regardless of government decisions on euthanasia or the perception of it as a fundamental freedom, it remains tied to a purely materialistic conception of life.

Faced with the failure of annual resolutions and the ambition for their realisation in the coming year, it is time to acknowledge their shortcomings.

It is equally important to focus on the remembrance of Allah, the only remedy for the ailments our hearts may feel and the troubles the world is going through, which we witness as spectators. May God forgive us and provide us the opportunity to remember Him deeply and entirely, as enjoined by the Promised Messiahas. Amin.

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024

13

Solar eclipse: A timeless lesson taught by the Holy Prophet Al-Fawaz Ajimoti Student, Jamia Ahmadiyya International Ghana

As we bid farewell to 2023 and enter the new year, one can’t help but marvel at the incredible astronomical events that have graced our skies this year. From dazzling meteor showers to rare planetary alignments, we have been treated to a celestial spectacle like no other – the eclipse.

This celestial phenomenon has always held a special place in human history, often carrying deep cultural and religious significance. In the Islamic tradition as well, eclipses can hold a special significance. (Surah Al-Qiyamah, Ch.75: V.7-10) The solar eclipse that coincided with the passing of Hazrat Ibrahimra, the beloved son of the Holy Prophetsa takes on a unique and profound significance that transcends its astronomical occurrence. This event highlighted the truthfulness of the Holy Prophet’ssa teachings and the divine nature of his message. Hazrat Ibrahimra, born to Hazrat Maria Qibtiara in the eighth year after Hijra (630 CE), lived only a brief 18 months before his untimely demise.

(Sunan Abu Daud, Kitab- aljana’iz, Hadith 3187) While his death was a deeply personal loss, the coinciding eclipse became a pivotal moment for the Holy Prophetsa to impart a critical lesson. He used this occasion to clarify a common misconception, affirming that celestial events are natural phenomena governed by divine laws and are not reflective of human affairs. Hence, the significance of the eclipse lies not in its timing with Hazrat Ibrahim’sra death but in the profound teaching it facilitated, emphasising the Islamic view of natural phenomena.

His demise could be said to have gone in conformity with this verse of the Holy Quran:

ُ َۤ َ َ َ َ َ ‫اَن ُ​ُم َ​َح �َّم ٌ​ٌد َاَبَۤا َا َ​َح ٍ​ٍد �ِ​ِّم ۡ​ۡن �ِّرِ َ​َجاِل ُِک ۡ​ۡم‬ ‫َما َک‬

“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men.” (Surah al-Ahzab, Ch. 31: V. 41) To that effect, it is written in the Five Volume Commentary: “The verse under comment declared that the Prophetsa is not, never was, nor will ever be the father of any grown-up young men (‫ رجال‬meaning grown-up young men).” (Five Volume Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 2577)

The young Ibrahim’sra demise and the Holy Prophet’ssa reaction On the day of Hazrat Ibrahim’sra demise, the Holy Prophetsa had gone out for some work.

As soon as he was informed of his son’s failing health, he went to him, took him in his arms and then said: “O Ibrahim, against the judgement of God, we cannot avail you of a thing.” (The Life of Muhammad, by Muhammad Husayn Haykal [translated by Isma’il Razi A. alFaruqi], American Trust Publications, 1976, p. 437) As the Holy Prophetsa watched his

precious son take his last breath, tears rolled from his blessed eyes. He then bent down, kissed the child and said: “O Ibrahim, God’s commandment is true and His promise is that those who die will later be reunited with the loved ones who passed away earlier. If we did not have that promise from Allah, I would have grieved over your death much more than I do now.

“O Ibrahim! Had it not been an ordained affair and true promise, and a path on which all tread and through which our successors would meet our predecessors, we would have shown greater grief than this.” (AtTabaqaat Al-Kabir [Arabic] (2001), Vol. 1, p. 115) He then said: “The eyes are wet with tears and the heart is grieved, but we will not utter any words that will cause the displeasure of Allah. O

Ibrahim! Indeed, we are sad at enduring separation from you.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-jana;iz, Qawl an-nabiyyi inna bika la makhzunin, Hadith 1303) These were the words uttered by the Holy Prophetsa of Islam for his dear son.

These words alone are enough to show how saddened the Holy Prophetsa was by the demise of his son.

Coincidence or decree?

It so happened that on the day that Hazrat Ibrahimra passed away, a solar eclipse took place. Given the fact that it was a sad day as the son of the Holy Prophetsa had passed

Ponder for a moment! How heavy of a task would this have been for someone who had just lost his last living son? After the Salat, he addressed the congregation in the following words:

َ� َ� َْ َ َ ْ َ ُ َ� �ٰ ‫ِ​ِإَّن‬ ‫اِن ِل ََِمْوْ ِ​ِت‬ ِ َ‫الَّش ْ​ْم َ​َس َ​َواْلَق َ​َمَرَ ِ​ِم ْ​ْن آَي‬ ِ ٰ ‫ َ​َو ِ​ِإَّنُه َ​َما �َلُا َيَْنَخ ِ​ِسَف‬،ِ‫اِت َالّٰلِه‬ َ‫ َ​َفِإ َ​َذا َ​َرَأْيْ ُ​ُت ُ​ُمْوْ ُ​ُه َ​َما َ​َف َ​َصُّلْوْا َ​َو ْاْد ُ​ُعْوْا ال �ّٰلَه‬،‫ َ​َوَلَا ِل ََِح َ​َيا ِ​ِت ِ​ِه‬،‫َأَ َ​َح ٍ​ٍد‬ ِ

“The sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of Allah. They do not eclipse because of someone’s death or life. So when you see them, offer salat and invoke Allah.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-kusuf, Bab assalati fi kusufi sh-shams, Hadith 1043)

Testament to the truthfulness of the Holy Prophet

When the eclipse occurred and the people started speaking of it as a tribute to the demise of the Holy Prophet’ssa son, it was very easy – in fact, apparently beneficial – for him to declare that, as being the case, he could very well prove and enhance his own magnificence and greatness through it. However, this most truthful Prophetsa not only did not accept it but totally condemned this notion.

With regards to this unparallel action of the Holy Prophetsa, Sir William Muir, a renowned British historian who on countless occasions has made grave attacks upon Islam and its Holy Foundersa, also observed: “An eclipse of the sun occurred on the same day, Jongsun Lee | Unsplash and the people spoke of it as a away, the atmosphere in Medina must have tribute to the death of the Prophet’s son. A been quite morose. Therefore, when people vulgar impostor would have accepted and saw the eclipse, they naturally started confirmed the delusion, but Mohammad attributing it to the demise of the Holy rejected the idea.” (The Life of Muhammad from Original Sources by Sir William Muir Prophet’ssa beloved son.

Remarkably, the Holy Prophetsa was very (1923), p. 430) Therefore, the incident that almost displeased at the attribution of the eclipse to his son’s demise. This went against the brought the concept of mythology to Islam teachings of Islam which teach us that not only got discarded but also served as Allah the Almighty causes such events in a compelling argument for not just the sa accordance with the divine laws of nature. truthfulness of the Holy Prophet , but also The Holy Prophetsa, therefore, gathered all the authenticity of the teachings of Islam.

In a nutshell, the convergence of the the people in the mosque for the observation of Salat-ul-Kusoof (the prayer that is offered eclipse with this significant moment in during a solar eclipse) and this continued Islamic history, coupled with the reaction sa until the eclipse subsided. (Sahih al-Bukhari, of the Holy Prophet’s to the incident, Kitab al-kusuf, Bab as-sadaqat fi l-kusuf, are all clear testimonies to the enduring divine legacy of the Holy Prophetsa and the Hadith 1044) It should also be noted that this eclipse lasted profound spiritual truths he brought, which for over two hours – and as did the prayer. continue to resonate across time and space.

(Al Fazl International, 13 August 2019, p. 7)

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

14

The Saga of Joseph – Part III A Comparative study of Prophet Joseph’s story in Genesis (Ch. 37-50) and the Quranic Unveiling Dr A. R. Bhutta Germany

Prophet Joseph’sas Brothers visited Egypt thrice, not twice With a study of Genesis, we learn that there was a famine in the land of Canaan, and in order to buy grain, Prophet Jacobas had sent all his ten elder sons to Egypt, where Josephas happened to be the governor and agriculture minister. When the brothers of Josephas appeared before him, he recognised his step-brothers but they could not recognise him. Josephas noted that his real brother, Benjamin, was not among them.

According to the Bible, the brothers of Josephas made two trips to Egypt but the Quranic version says that they went there three times. There are some other differences, too, in the Biblical and Quranic versions of their trips to Egypt. Here, within this part, we shall analyse and compare the two versions of their trips to Egypt.

The Biblical version of the first visit of Joseph’sas brothers According to the Biblical story, when the brothers of Josephas went to Egypt for the first time, they were treated roughly by Josephas. He accused them of spying and put them in prison for three days. When they denied the charge, Josephas told them that to prove that they were not spies, they should leave one of them in his custody and the others should go back home with the grain, and then they should come back with their youngest brother, Benjamin, and get their

brother released.

So according to the Biblical version, Joseph arrested one of them, Simeon, and put him in prison while the others went back with their sacks full of grain. Back home, they discovered, to their surprise, that their money had been put back into their respective sacks.

They told their father that they had been treated roughly in Egypt and were even accused of spying. And Simeon had been detained by the governor until they went back and produced Benjamin before him.

The father was naturally very disturbed by this development and had even rebuked them for disclosing the family details to that officer in Egypt (Gen. 42:9-34; 43:3-8).

The Quranic version of the first visit of Joseph’sas brothers According to the Quranic version, when the brothers met Josephas on their first visit, he did not treat them roughly, nor did he accuse them of spying and put them in prison. He did not detain any of them, asking the others to go back home and bring Benjamin to him.

Josephas had treated his brothers very well, and all of them had gone back satisfied with their sacks full of grain. Moreover, Josephas had their money put back into their sacks, which they had discovered, to their pleasant surprise, when they had opened their sacks at home.

However, while seeing his brothers off with their sacks full of grain, Josephas had told them, rather sternly, that when they come next time, they should also bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, along,

otherwise they might not be allowed to buy grain or come near him. (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.59-63)

The Biblical version of the second visit to Egypt According to the Bible, when the brothers of Josephas came to Egypt to buy grain for the second time, they also brought Benjamin along, as Josephas had advised them.

Josephas was happy and treated them well, and Simeon was released. However, then we are told that on the instruction of Josephas, the workers filling their sacks with grain, put the measuring ‘silver cup’ in the sack of Benjamin.

The next morning, when the brothers left for home, they were accused of stealing the “silver cup” and their sacks were searched.

The cup was recovered from the sack of Benjamin and he was taken into custody.

Shocked by this, the brothers went to see Josephas to have Benjamin released.

Judah, the spokesman for the brothers, explained to Josephas that Benjamin, being the youngest son of his old father, was very dear to him and that his father might not even survive the news of his arrest.

He begged Josephas to let Benjamin go and take him into custody instead. At that point, the Bible says that Josephas could not control himself and made himself known to his brothers, saying, “I am Joseph; doth my father yet live?” (Gen. 45:3). He then embraced and kissed all his brothers. Then he invited them all to come to Egypt, and thus Joseph’sas family moved to Egypt and settled there. (Gen. Ch.43-46).

The biblical story ends with this second visit of Joseph’sas brothers to Egypt but the Quranic version continues with the story. It says that Josephas refused to release Benjamin as requested by the brothers. The brothers had gone back home without Benjamin.

There, they told their father that Benjamin had been detained in Egypt for stealing the royal cup. The father was naturally very disturbed by this development. Then, after some time, they came back to Egypt for the third time. It was during this third meeting with Josephas that the story reached its climax when Josephas made himself known to them.

However, let us first see the Quranic version of the second visit of Joseph’sas brothers.

Quranic version of ‘brothers’ second visit

Dario Morandotti | Unsplash

When the brothers of Josephas came to Egypt to buy grain for the second time, they also brought Benjamin with them, as Josephas had advised them. Josephas was happy to see

his real brother. He treated them well and lodged his real brother with himself. He made himself known to Benjamin, telling him he was his real brother, Josephas. He ordered the servants to give the grain to all of them.

Having received the grain, when all the brothers were ready to depart for home, Josephas was there to see his younger brother off. As he helped his brother pack his things in his saddle bag, unintentionally he happened to the measuring ‘silver cup’ in his bag.

Later, when the servants did not find the cup, they accused the brothers of stealing the cup. The brothers rejected the allegation but when their bags were searched, the cup was found in, as stated, Benjamin’s bag; and he was detained as the culprit as was agreed upon by the brothers themselves. (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.73-77; Tafsir-e-Kabeer, Vol. 3, ed. 1986, p.340) All the brothers were shocked, particularly Judah, who had given a solemn pledge to his father that he would bring Benjamin safely back home. Then, they all went to see Josephas and pleaded with him to let Benjamin go and arrest one of them instead. However, Josephas refused to grant their request, saying: “He replied, ‘Allah forbid that we should take [any] save him with whom we found our property; for then we should certainly be unjust.’” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.80)

It was a divine plan At this point, we may explain that Josephas had met his younger brother Benjamin after a very very long time, and he would have desired to “detain” him in Egypt. However, he could not do so under the law of the land.

This incident of the cup in his bag provided Josephas with a legal opportunity to detain his brother, which he availed.

Josephas had not deliberately planted the cup in his brother’s bag as the Bible says. It was, indeed, God’s plan: “Thus did We plan for Joseph. He could not have taken his brother under the King’s law unless Allah had [so] willed.” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.77) When Josephas refused to release Benjamin, the brothers conferred among themselves on how to proceed. Their leader, Judah – who had given a solemn pledge to their father, about the safe return of Benjamin – found himself too ashamed to go back and face his father. Thus, he decided to stay in Egypt and told his brothers to go back home with the grain and tell their father of the situation they were in and how Benjamin was captured as a consequence.

The brothers went back home, leaving Judah Continued on next page >>

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024

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Opinion Vatican’s stance on same-sex unions and the challenge to traditional Church doctrine Fazal Malik Canada

This analysis is rooted in religious doctrine and is not intended to pass judgement on individuals or communities. Instead, it aims to explore the theological and doctrinal implications of these changes within the Catholic Church. The discussion here is about religious teachings and their interpretation in the context of evolving Church positions.

The Vatican recently made headlines by granting tentative approval for the blessing of same-sex civil unions. However, these blessings cannot resemble or contain elements of traditional marriage ceremonies between a man and a woman. This compromise by Pope Francis aims to show more acceptance towards LGBTQ Catholics who feel excluded. This development presents a challenging juxtaposition with the Catholic Church’s long-standing doctrines on marriage and sexuality, raising questions about doctrinal consistency.

At first glance, the move appears pastoral by welcoming a marginalised group. But in reality, it sows confusion through vague guidelines rather than taking a clear stance.

The Church still defines marriage as an exclusive, lifelong covenant between a man and woman that is essentially oriented towards bearing and raising children. (“CODE OF CANON LAW”, www.vatican. va) If so, what then would a same-sex union blessed by the Church consist of? The rules remain unclear as to what exact blessings

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behind, and told their father that Benjamin had been detained by the authorities in Egypt because he had stolen the silver cup.

The already worried father was, naturally, deeply grieved to hear the sad news about another son whom he loved most. However, with his heart sorrowful and eyes tearful, Jacobas bore the shock with goodly patience.

He had always hoped that, by the grace of God, he would see, one day, his dearest son, Josephas. He knew from God what the others did not know. (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.81-87)

Quranic version of the brothers’ third visit to Egypt Some time after the second trip of his sons to Egypt, Jacobas asked them to “‘go ye and search for Joseph and his brother and despair not of the mercy of Allah; for none despairs of Allah’s mercy save the unbelieving people.’” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.88) So, once again, the brothers went to Egypt and met Josephas. They told him in a most humble way that the famine and

Nacho Arteaga | Unsplash

are permissible and appropriate.

Additionally, approving any form of blessing signals veiled permission for the same-sex unions themselves. Yet the Catholic Catechism clearly states that homosexual acts are “intrinsically disordered” and that under no circumstances may they be condoned. (“Catechism of the Catholic Church”, www.usccb.org) If same-sex couples can now receive blessings, it severely clashes with established doctrine prohibiting sexual activity between persons of the same gender.

This situation creates a complex scenario within the Church, potentially leading to doctrinal ambiguity that could concern different factions within the faith, from so-called progressives to traditionalists. It invites valid accusations of hypocrisy and

doublespeak by claiming to endorse both Catholic teachings against homosexual relations on the one hand and blessings for same-sex couples on the other.

Ultimately, this precarious compromise appears ready to collapse from its own contradictions. The Church cannot logically endorse orthodox doctrine while also welcoming same-sex unions and expecting faithfulness to traditional Catholic values.

This deep tension between teaching and practice cannot hold indefinitely without stretching reason to the breaking point.

Most faith traditions have long considered heterosexual marriage vital for social stability and continuity. Across major religions, exclusive conjugal bonds between men and women serve essential

poverty had badly hit them; and that they did not even have money enough to buy grain. They begged him to be charitable and give them “full measure” of the grain. (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.89)

Merciful of those who show mercy.” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.93) Josephas was fully aware, due to the love he was shown during his youthful age, of the fact that his father must have been suffering very badly on account of his sudden disappearance as a small boy. So, while seeing his brothers off with their sacks full of grain, Josephas gave them his shirt and told them to present it to his father as a token to assure him that he, Josephas, was well and alive. Josephas also invited all of them to come here and settle in Egypt.

Back home, when the brothers told their father all about Josephas and presented him with his shirt, the old and distressed father was greatly relieved to know that all his prayers and hopes about Josephas eventually came true. The brothers, too, expressed their sorrow to their father for what they had done to Josephas and, confessing their faults, begged him for forgiveness.

Following this, all of them migrated to Egypt, where they were received honourably

by Josephas as well as by the King. All of them felt indebted to Josephas for this loving

Buyers turned beggars On their first two visits, the brothers of Josephas had met him as buyers of grain; however, on that day, they stood before him as those seeking charity. For Josephas, it was a very moving moment, and he could no longer bear that his brothers should degrade themselves so low before him. He told them, to their great surprise and dismay, that he was no other person than their very own brother, Josephas.

The brothers felt themselves badly humbled and confessed the sins that they had committed against him. Josephas, however, did not keep them in suspense concerning the treatment that could be extended to them, and he pardoned them immediately by declaring: “‘No blame [shall lie] on you this day; may Allah forgive you! And He is the Most

functions like procreation, child-rearing and intergenerational connections.

The Bible speaks of the first woman being created “as a helper fit for [Adam]” (Genesis, 2:18) and urges the unity of husband and wife not to be divided. Similarly, the Holy Quran upholds marital intimacy as a moral safeguard. In these religious contexts, marriage is seen as sacred and integral to family structure and societal continuity.

Any significant redefinition, such as the validation of same-sex unions within these religious contexts, represents a complete shift from these traditional teachings.

This doctrinal compromise might lead to challenges in maintaining the historical integrity of the Church’s teachings.

In the context of Catholic teachings, moral boundaries and divine laws are seen as fundamental to guiding adherents towards a life in accordance with Church doctrine. These principles are not intended as arbitrary exclusions but as part of a theological framework that aims to uphold the collective spiritual welfare of its followers. The Church’s role, as it is perceived, involves the stewardship of these principles, ensuring their transmission and adherence within the Catholic community.

If the Church, perceived by many as having already strayed from its original teachings, continues to further abandon its stated role as a “steadfast guardian and transmitter of revealed wisdom” to guide humanity, it risks losing sight of preserving whatever elements of truth still remain in it, across peoples and time.

moment, bringing the family together once again. To thank God for His grace and mercy, they all fell into prostration before God. “And Joseph said, ‘O my father, this is the fulfilment of my dream of old. My Lord has made it come true.” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.101)

Conclusion By comparing the Biblical and Quranic versions of Joseph’sas story, we have seen that there are many important differences between the two. The Quranic version is far more elaborate, coherent, realistic and moving than the Biblical one. It presents Josephas as a model of patience, piety, modesty, compassion, honesty and righteousness, without any blemish whatsoever.

I advise readers to go through the Quranic version in order to apprise themselves of the true features of this most inspiring, moving and moral story ever to be recorded in the Holy Scriptures. All praise belongs to Allah, the Gracious and Merciful.

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100 A French new convert Years and tabligh in London

Ago...

Al Fazl, 4 January 1924

some people who are completely unfamiliar with Islam.

Hence, I observed that a woman in the meeting under discussion waited patiently in the rain without an umbrella for a long time for her turn to ask a question and when she got the chance, she said, “Tell me, what is the difference between Allah and Muhammad?”

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)

French new convert In the days of the report under discussion, one of the distinguished guests who visited Ahmadiyya Darut Tabligh [mission house] was a French new convert lady named Madame de Simo and her little girl Fatima. [...] We had a conversation with this honourable lady through an interpreter.

Madame de Simo edits a newspaper in the city of Nice, located in the South of France. She is a respected figure in Morocco as well. She listened very attentively to the important issues of Ahmadiyyat and showed great sincerity and love for Ahmadiyya Jamaat. Her younger daughter Fatima recited the Kalima [creed] in her childish voice in French.

Our sister has taken 100 French copies of [The Philosophy of the] Teachings of Islam for distribution and plans to present [this book of the Promised Messiahas] in her circle of French people. She suggests that much work can be done through literature in Western countries. Thus, Ahmadiyya literature should be published in every language. There is a great opportunity for the publication [and distribution of Islamic literature] in France.

In Spain, women’s rights activists are forsaking religion, especially the Catholic faith. On the other hand, people here are not well-informed about Islam. Consequently,

Ahmadi students

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

on the occasion of a lecture, the Spanish women expressed their surprise when they heard about Islam.

Lecture It was cold and raining last Sunday morning, but Allah the Almighty granted strength to some people who left all other activities and speeches and came to us. Most of the newcomers join us to hear the message of truth. They mostly ask very relevant and reasonable questions, but there are also

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, Ahmadi students living in England are diligently engaged in religious education. Aziz Seith Ali Muhammad Sahib has passed his entrance exam and is about to join the university for law studies. He will select a course that will help him compete in the civil service examination.

Hafiz Syed Mahmudullah Shah Sahib is learning to work in the Railway Department at Sheffield and is held in exceptional respect within and outside his department for his honesty, good manners and piety.

Chaudhary Maula Bakhsh Sahib Janjua BA (Hons) of Oxon, Barrister at Law, University of London, is busy preparing for LLB Hons Examination.

Sahibzada Abdul Rahim Khan Khalid Sahib has passed his final bar examination.

Ghulam Hussain Sahib Bhunno of Mauritius has passed a difficult stage of the medical examination and is having a busy time at [the University of] Edinburgh. Chaudhary Ghulam Qadir Khan Sahib BSc (Hons) aims

to stay in England for some more time to acquire more qualifications.

Sheikh Zafar-ul-Haq Sahib, BSc, is preparing for his honours exam. Brother Gabrial Martin from West Africa is studying law at the University of London after passing the Cambridge entrance examination. He will also pass the bar exam, insha-Allah.

Malik Muhammad Ismail, BSc, son of the late Dr llahi Bakhsh Sahib, who by the grace of Allah the Almighty, came first in Banaras Hindu University, has arrived in London safely to acquire education on a government scholarship. He is staying at Ahmadiyya Darut Tabligh. He has been admitted to the second-year class at the Royal Veterinary College. We request members of the Jamaat to pray for all these students of Islam.

New students Those students who want to come abroad for education and want to get acquainted with the conditions here should write to the address given below. Insha-Allah, they will be informed in detail about all the necessary matters: YH Khan Esq. The Ahmadiyya Mosque, 63 Melrose Road, Southfields, London, SW 18.

– Abdur Rahim Nayyar, 25 October 1923.

(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 4 January 1924 issue of Al Fazl)

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Czech Republic holds its second ijtema Uzair Ahmed Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Czech Republic

On 21 and 22 October 2023, Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Czech Republic held its second National Ijtema. Khuddam travelled by train and car from across the country to gather in the capital city of Prague on the evening of 20 October, from cities as far away as 400 km.

The theme of the Ijtema this year was “Allah”.

The Czech Republic is known as one of the most atheistic countries in the world; thus, we selected this theme to help khuddam embrace their responsibility of

showing God to the world.

The first day began with congregational tahajjud followed by dars of the Holy Quran.

In the opening session, Kashif Janjua Sahib, a missionary, presented essential points from Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra book, Ten Proofs for the Existence of God. This was followed by academic and sports competitions.

In the evening, we held a collaboration with “The Existence Project” by The Review of Religions. Khuddam were joined virtually by the editor of this project, Sabahat Ali Sahib, from Silicon Valley, USA for a discussion. We discussed how we have a responsibility to tread upon the path of true Islam revitalised by the Promised Messiahas

Image courtesy of AMJ Czech Republic

and his Khulafa to attain nearness to God and inspire others around us.

The second day also began with tahajjud prayer and dars.

After a prize distribution ceremony, the closing speech was delivered by my humble

self. We discussed Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa address at the MKA UK Ijtema 2023, where beloved Huzooraa reminded us that it is our duty to stand against the rising tide of atheism and godlessness.

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Friday Sermon Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, Tilford, UK

8 December 2023 Muhammadsa: The Great Exemplar After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

In the previous Friday sermon, the Battle of Uhud was being mentioned. I will present the brief details given by Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra in relation to this. Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra states: “While fleeing from the battlefield (i.e., after the Battle of Badr), the army of the disbelievers announced that they would attack Medina again the following year and avenge their loss to the Muslims.

Hence, a year later, they once again made full preparations to launch an attack on Medina. The state of rage of the Meccans was such that following the Battle of Badr, they announced that no one was allowed to mourn over their dead and that all the income generated by the trade caravans would be saved for the upcoming battle. As such, after much preparation, an army of more than 3,000 soldiers set off to attack Medina under the leadership of Abu Sufyan. The Holy Prophetsa consulted the companions about whether they should remain in the city and fight them, or go outside of the city. His personal opinion was to allow the enemy to launch the attack so that they would be held responsible for initiating the war and so that the Muslims could easily confront them while remaining in their city.

However, the young Muslims, who did not have the opportunity to participate in the Battle of Badr, whose hearts yearned that they too be given the opportunity to be martyred in the cause of God, insisted that they should not be deprived of martyrdom.

Subsequently, the Holy Prophetsa accepted their suggestion. While consulting them, the Holy Prophetsa also narrated a dream of his. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘I saw some cows in a dream and I also saw that the tip of my sword broken and I also saw that these cows were being slaughtered. I then saw that I placed my hand in a strong and secure chainmail and I also saw that I am mounted upon a ram.’ The companions submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! How

have you interpreted these dreams?’ The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘The interpretation of the cows being slaughtered is that some of my companions will be martyred. The breaking of the sword indicates that a prominent individual from my relatives will be martyred, or that I may suffer an affliction during this battle. I consider the interpretation of placing my hand in the chainmail to mean that staying in Medina is better for us. The interpretation of being mounted upon a ram seems to be that we will be victorious over the leader of the army of the disbelievers, (i.e., that he will be killed at the hands of the Muslims.)’ Though it was made clear to the Muslims in this dream that it is better for them to stay in Medina, however, since the interpretation of the Holy Prophetsa was based on his personal view and not based on divine revelation, he therefore accepted the view of the majority and decided to head out for battle.” (Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, pp. 247-248) In relation to this dream, it should be remembered that certain signs and inferences are made in dreams. Mentioning this, the Promised Messiahas elaborates upon the metaphors [in the dreams] of the Holy Prophetsa and states: “The metaphors that are found in the visions and dreams of the Holy Prophetsa are not concealed or hidden to those who read the Ahadith. At one time the Holy Prophetsa was shown in a vision that he was wearing two gold bangles on his arms, and this was interpreted to mean two liars who made false claims to prophethood; and at another time the Holy Prophetsa was shown in his dream or vision that cows were being slaughtered, and this referred to the companions who were martyred in the Battle of Uhud […] Many such examples are found in the visions of other prophets, that although something was shown to them, but in reality, it referred to something different.

Thus, metaphors and figurative meanings in the words of prophets are not a rare thing.”

(Izala-e-Auham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 3, p.

133 [footnote]) Nevertheless, when the decision was made to fight outside [the city], the Holy Prophetsa instructed the companions to prepare, and he himself also began to prepare for the battle. As it was stated, the details of this are as follows: The Holy Prophetsa did not want to go outside the city to fight on the basis of his dream, but when people continuously persisted, the Holy Prophetsa agreed to their opinion. He led the Friday prayers and delivered a sermon, commanding them to fight with complete courage and bravery.

The Holy Prophetsa gave them glad tidings, that if they acted with patience, then Allah the Almighty would bestow victory and success upon them. Then the Holy Prophetsa commanded the people to go and prepare for war. Upon hearing this commandment, people became elated. After this, he offered the Asr prayer with everyone. By this time, those who had arrived from nearby had also gathered with them. The Holy Prophetsa then went into his house alongside Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra. They both tied the turban of the Holy Prophetsa and helped him put on his armour. While waiting for him, the people were arranged in rows. At this time, Hazrat Sa’d bin Muadhra and Hazrat Usaid bin Hudhairra said to the people, “You have gone against the wishes of the Holy Prophetsa by compelling him to go outside [the city of Medina] and fight the enemy; therefore, you should still just leave the matter to him. Whatever command he gives and whatever opinion he holds, there will be betterment for us in it. Therefore, obey him.” When the Holy Prophetsa came outside, he was wearing his armour. He was wearing a double coat of armour, meaning one coat on top of another. The names of these pieces of armour were Zaat-ul Fuzool

and Fizza. Zaat-ul Fuzool was the armour that Hazrat Sa’d bin Ubadahra sent to the Holy Prophetsa when he was going out for the Battle of Badr. This was the same armour that, when the Holy Prophetsa passed away, it was in the custody of a Jewish man at the time and was kept with him as a deposit.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra obtained this armour, meaning he paid the sum and took the armour back.

The Holy Prophetsa had hung his sword on his side and put his quiver on his back.

It is stated in a narration that the Holy Prophetsa mounted his horse named Saqb, hung his bow and held a spear in his hand.

Nevertheless, it is possible that both things happened and different people witnessed them. When the Holy Prophetsa came out of his house, he was wearing his armour and weapons. He was informed that Hazrat Malik bin Amr Najaarira had passed away, and his body had been placed where the funeral prayers were offered. The Holy Prophetsa led his funeral prayer before departing.

At this time, some people said to the Holy Prophetsa that “O Messengersa of Allah! Our intention was not to oppose your opinion or to compel you into something; therefore, act according to whatever you think is best.” It is also mentioned in another narration that [they said], “If you would not like to leave the city to fight, then we can stay here.” The Holy Prophetsa said, “It is not permissible for a prophet, after he has put on his armour, to removes it until Allah the Almighty decides between him and his enemies.” In a different narration, the words used are “not until he fights”. (Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, pp. 298-299; Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 4 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah], p. 186) Regarding the preparation of the Holy Prophetsa and the companions’ realisation of their mistake, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra

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states: “Thereafter, the Holy Prophetsa retired to his residence, where he tied his turban, put on his equipment, took his arms with the assistance of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra, and came out in the name of Allah. However, during this time, due to the admonishment of some of the companions, the party of young men began to realise their mistake; in that they should not have insisted upon their own opinion in opposition to the view of God’s Messengersa, and most of them were now inclined towards remorse.

“When these people saw the Holy Prophetsa coming with his arms, clad in double the armour, and his helmet, etc., their regret grew even more. They almost unanimously submitted, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! We have committed a mistake in insisting upon our own view over your own.

You should employ whatever strategy you deem most appropriate. God-willing, it shall be most blessed.’

“The Holy Prophetsa said: “‘It does not befit a Prophet of God to put on his arms and then lay them down before God issues forth a verdict.’ So go forth now, in the name of Allah and if you are steadfast, then be certain that the succour of Allah the Exalted shall be with you.” (Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyeen, pp. 485-486) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra also states, in regard to this incident, that: “When the Holy Prophetsa came outside, the young men felt regret in their hearts, and they said, ‘O messengersa of Allah! Whatever you advise is correct, and we should stay in Medina to fight against the enemy.’ The Holy Prophetsa responded, ‘When a Prophet of God puts on his armour, he does not remove it. Now, whatever happens, we will still go forth. If you act with patience, then the help of Allah will come to you.’” (Dibacha Tafsirul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, p. 248) Thus, preparations were made for the Muslim army to depart. The Holy Prophetsa departed from Medina with an army of 1,000. (As-Sirah Al-Nabawiyyah, Ibn Hisham, Vol. 3, p. 448) At this time, the Holy Prophetsa asked for three spears and tied three flags to them.

The flag of the Aus tribe was given to Usaid bin Hudhairra, the flag of the Khazraj tribe was given to Hubaab bin Mundhirra while others are of the opinion that it was given to Sa’d bin Ubadahra, and the flag of the Muhajirin was given to Hazrat Alira. Then the Holy Prophetsa appointed Hazrat Ibn Umme Maktumra to lead in prayer all those who stayed behind. Thereafter, the Holy Prophetsa mounted his horse Saqb, hung his bow over his neck, and held his spear in his hand. It is mentioned in a narration that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, the Muslims had two horses, one horse belonged to the Holy Prophetsa and was named Saqb, while the other horse belonged to Hazrat Abu Burdahra and was named Mulawaih. And the Muslims also donned their weapons, among whom 100 were wearing armour, and the two Sa’ds, meaning Hazrat Sa’d bin Muadhra and Hazrat Sa’d bin Ubadahra, began running in front of the Holy Prophetsa.

Both of them were wearing armour, and the people were on both sides of the Holy Prophetsa. When they reached Thaniyyah, they saw a heavily armed force. Their weapons were clattering. The Holy Prophetsa asked, “What is that?” The Noble Companions replied, “These are

the Jewish confederates of Abdullah bin Ubayy.” The Holy Prophetsa asked, “Have the Jews accepted Islam?” They replied in the negative. The Holy Prophetsa then said, “We will not take the help of disbelievers in our fight against the idolaters.” (Subul alHuda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 4 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah], p. 186; Ibn Sa’d, Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra, Vol. 1 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar alKutub al-‘Ilmiyyah], p. 380) In this regard, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra also writes: “After this, the Holy Prophetsa instructed that three flags be prepared for the Muslim army. The flag of the Aus tribe was entrusted to Usaid bin Al-Hudairra, the flag of the Khazraj tribe was entrusted to Hubbab bin Mundhirra, and the flag of the Muhajirin was entrusted to Hazrat Alira. Later, this flag was granted to Hazrat Mus’ab bin ‘Umairra. Then, after appointing Abdullah bin Ummi Maktumra as the Imamus-Salat in Medina and observing ‘Asr Salat, the Holy Prophetsa set out from Medina with a large community of the Companions. The chieftains of the Aus and Khazraj tribes, Sa‘d bin Mu‘adhra and Sa‘d bin ‘Ubadahra proceeded along, running slowly, just ahead of the mount of the Holy Prophetsa, and the rest of the Companions moved forward, positioned to the right, left and behind the Holy Prophetsa.” (Sirat Khatam-ul-Nabiyeen, p. 486; Sharah Zurqani, Vol. 2, p. 398, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah) After his departure, the Holy Prophetsa set up his camp at a place called Shaikhain.

This place referred to the two mountains of Medina. Upon arriving at this place, the Holy Prophetsa inspected his army and sent back those youth whom he thought were below the age of 15, or who were 14 years old.” (Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, p. 300; Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 4 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar alKutub al-‘Ilmiyyah], p. 175) Imam Shafi’i writes that the Holy Prophetsa was presented with 17 youths who were 14 years of age, and he sent them back. He was also presented with youth who were 15 years old, and he granted them permission [to fight]. The youth who were sent back were passionate, and some of their names are found in the narration, namely Abdullah bin Umar, Zaid bin Thabit, Usamah bin Zaid, Zaid bin Arqam, Bara’ bin Adhib, ‘Usaid bin Zuhair, Araba bin Aus, Abu Sa’id Khudri, Aus bin Thabit, Sa’d bin Bahir, Ibn Muawiyah Bajali, Sa’id bin Habtah (Habtah was the name of his mother), Sa’d bin Uqaib, Zaid bin Jariyah, Jabir bin Abdullah (this Jabir bin Abdullah is not the one who narrated the Ahadith, he is someone else), Rafi’ bin Khadij, and Samurah bin Jundub.

The Holy Prophetsa was told that Rafi’ bin Khadij was an archer, and so he was granted permission. He was first instructed to return, however, upon learning that he was a proficient archer, he was granted permission to stay. Upon this, Samurah bin Jundub said, “The Holy Prophetsa granted permission to Rafi’ bin Khadij and has instructed me to return, even though I can defeat Rafi’ bin Khadij in a wrestle.” When the Holy Prophetsa learned of this, he instructed both of them to wrestle each other. Samurah defeated Rafi’ in the wrestle, and so the Holy Prophetsa granted him permission as well.

Further into the narration, it is recorded that when the Holy Prophetsa finished inspecting the army and the sun had set, Hazrat Bilalra made the call for the Maghrib prayer and the Holy Prophetsa led the prayer.

After this, the call for the Isha prayer was given, and the Holy Prophetsa led the Isha prayer. That night was spent at Shaikhain, and Muhammad bin Maslamahra was given the responsibility of keeping watch during the night. He circled the army with 50 men.

The Holy Prophetsa said, “Who will stay awake to safeguard us (in other words, who would safeguard the army and the Holy Prophetsa)?” Dhakwan bin ‘Abd Qais stood up for the task. [It was said], “Who would stay closest to the Holy Prophetsa?” to ensure that the security arrangements were done properly. Dhakwan bin ‘Abd Qais stood up, wore his armour, took up his leather shield and stood as a guard for the Holy Prophetsa.

He did not leave the Holy Prophet’ssa side for even a moment. The Holy Prophetsa rested until it was time for Sehri [dawn]. (Subul alHuda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 4 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah], p. 187) According to the narration, in the morning, the Holy Prophetsa said that he saw in a dream that the angels were bathing Hazrat Hamzara. (Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah, p. 300) Regarding this, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra has written in The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets: “The mountain of Uhud was approximately three miles north of Medina.

Halfway there, upon reaching a place called Shaikhain, the Holy Prophetsa stopped and instructed that the Muslim army should be inspected. The youth who were passionate about Jihad and had come along were sent back. Abdullah bin Umar, Usamah bin Zaid, Abu Saeed Khudri and others went back.

Rafi’ bin Khadij was the same age as those youth; however, he was an expert archer.

Owing to this skill, his father recommended to the Holy Prophetsa that he be given permission to partake in Jihad. The Holy Prophetsa looked at Rafi’ and saw that he was standing tall like the other soldiers in order to appear stronger and larger. His strategy worked as the Holy Prophetsa graciously allowed him to come along. Upon this, another youth by the name of Samurah bin Jundub – as was just mentioned – who was commanded to return went to his father and said, ‘If Rafi’ was taken then I should also be permitted because I am stronger than Rafi’ and can overcome him in a wrestle.’ His father was very pleased by his sincerity, and so he took his son before the Holy Prophetsa and expressed his son’s desire. Whilst smiling, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Rafi’ and Samurah should wrestle so that we can ascertain who is stronger.” They began to wrestle and Samurah actually defeated Rafi’ within moments. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa also graciously allowed Samurah to accompany them. The heart of this innocent youth filled with joy. Now that it was evening, Bilalra made the call for prayer and all the Companions prayed behind the Holy Prophetsa. The Muslims set up their encampment for the night at this very place, and the Holy Prophetsa appointed Muhammad bin Maslamah to make arrangements for security and surveillance during the night. He circled

the Muslim army all night with a party of 50 Companions.” (Sirat Khatam-un-Nabiyeen, pp. 486-487) Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Sulul initially accompanied them, but returned during the journey. The details of this are that at the time of Sehri [dawn], the Holy Prophetsa set out from Shaikhan to a place between Medina and Uhud known as Shaut. Upon arriving there, it was time for prayer, and so the Holy Prophetsa offered the Fajr prayer.

Shaut is a place between the Valley of Qanat and Medina. From this very place, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Sulul and his hypocrite accomplices deserted the Holy Prophetsa and returned. His accomplices numbered 300, all of whom were hypocrites. Whilst returning, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Sulul remarked, “He (i.e., the Holy Prophetsa) did not listen to me. In fact, he listened to the youth, who are not worthy of an opinion. We do not know on what basis we should give our lives.

(These are the words of Abdullah.) Thus, O people, go back.” Upon this instruction from the leader of the hypocrites, the rest of the hypocrites deserted the Muslims and went back. Upon seeing them going back, Hazrat Jabir’sra father, Hazrat Abdullah bin Amrra went after them. Like Abdullah bin Ubayi, he too was a prominent chief of the Khazraj tribe. He addressed those who were going back and said, “By God, I ask you, are you content with betraying your Prophetsa and people at a time when their enemy is standing before them with their full power and strength?” They replied, “If we had known that you were going to fight in a battle, we would not have accompanied you in the first place. We thought that a battle would not take place.” In this manner, they unequivocally announced that they were going back, despite the fact that they had prepared well for battle. Upon this, Hazrat Abdullah bin Amrra said, “O enemies of God! May Allah ruin and destroy you. Allah will soon free His Prophetsa from you.”

In one narration, Allamah ibn Jawzirh writes: “When the tribes of Banu Salamah and Banu Hartiha saw the treachery of Abdullah bin Ubayy, they also planned to return. Both of these tribes were on either flank of the [Muslim] army. But then, Allah the Almighty saved both of these tribes from sin and both of these tribes abandoned the thought of returning. Upon this, Allah the Almighty revealed the verse:

َ ۡ َ َ ُ ۡ ٰ َ َ� َ ۡ �ٰ َ �ٰ ‫ِ​ِاۡذ َ​َہ �َّم ۡ​ۡت َّطٓاِئَِفٰت ِ​ِن ِ​ِمۡنُک ۡ​ۡم َا ۡ​ۡن َتَۡفَشَلَا� َ​َوالّٰل ُ​ُہ َ​َوِل ِ �ُ​ُّی ُ​ُہ َ​َما� َ​َو َ​َعَلی الّٰل ِ​ِہ‬ ُ ۡ � َۡ ‫َفۡل َ​َی َ​َتَوَ​َّک ِ​ِل اۡل ُ​ُم ۡ​ۡؤ ِ​ِمُنۡوۡ َ​َن‬

“‘When two of your groups meditated cowardice, although Allah was their friend.

And upon Allah should the believers rely.’

(Ch.3, V.123) “Owing to the treachery of Abdullah bin Ubayy and 300 of his men, only 700 companions were left with the Holy Prophetsa. When Abdullah bin Ubayy left, the Ansar said to the Holy Prophetsa, “O Messengersa of Allah! Should we not seek the assistance of the Jews of Medina, who are our confederates?” They were referring to the Jews of Medina and from among them, perhaps they were referring to the Banu Quraizah, who were the confederates of Hazrat Sa’d bin Mu’adhra. According to some scholars, among the Ansar, the status of Hazrat Sa’dra was akin to a position held

by Hazrat Abu Bakrra among the Muhajirin.

Nonetheless, upon this question the Holy Prophetsa simply replied: “We do not require

AL HAKAM | Friday 5 January 2024 their assistance.” (Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al‘Ilmiyyah, p. 301; Farhang-e-Sirat, p. 167, Zawar Academy, Karachi) In reference to this, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra has written: “The following day, on the 15th of Shawwal 3 AH or the 31st of March 624 A.D. on Saturday, before dawn, the Muslim army marched forward and offering their salat enroute, reached the foot of Mount Uhud at the start of the morning. It was on this occasion that the evil ‘Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Sulul, chief of the hypocrites, betrayed the Muslims, and separating himself along with 300 followers, returned to Medina, saying, ‘Muhammadsa did not pay heed to my advice, and being swayed by inexperienced youngsters, he has come out of Medina. Hence, I cannot remain with him and fight.’

“Some people admonished him of their own accord, saying that such betrayal was uncalled for, but he would not have it, and continued to retort, ‘If this was a battle, I too would have taken part, but this is not battle; it is suicide.’ Now all that remained of the Muslim army was 700 souls, which was even less than a quarter of the 3,000 warriors of the Quraish. Furthermore, with respect to mounts and equipment of war as well, the Muslim army was very weak and insignificant in comparison to the army of the Quraish. The Muslim army only had a hundred men clad in armour, and a meagre two horses. By comparison, the disbelieving army boasted 700 men clad in armour, 200 horses, and 3,000 camels. In this state of weakness, which was strongly felt by the Muslims, the treachery of “‘Abdullah bin Ubayy’s 300 men, had created a state of restlessness and anxiety in the hearts of various weak-hearted Muslims, some of whom began to lose courage. Hence, as mentioned in the Holy Quran, in this very state of distress and anxiety, two tribes from among the Muslims, the Banu Harithah and Banu Salamah, had even planned to return to Medina, but since their hearts still possessed the light of faith, they managed to compose themselves. As far as apparent means were concerned, even as death stared them in the eye, they did not leave the side of their master.” (Sirat Khatam-un-Nabiyeen, p.

487) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “The Holy Prophetsa left Medina with an army of 1,000. Having travelled a short distance, they stopped and set up camp for the night. It was the custom of the Holy Prophetsa that when he would reach near the enemy camp, he would let his army rest, so they could make the necessary preparations.

When the Holy Prophetsa came out for the morning prayer, he saw that some Jews had come along with the tribes they were allies with. Since the Holy Prophetsa was aware of the mischievous ploys of the Jews, he ordered for them to be sent back. Upon this, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Sulul – who was the chief of the hypocrites – took 300 of his comrades and left, saying: ‘This is no longer a war! It is suicide!’ (Another reason for Abdullah bin Ubayy leaving was that he questioned why the Jews were not being permitted to fight alongside them and that stopping assistance was inviting one’s own destruction.) Consequently, the Muslims were left with only 700 men, which, compared to the disbeliever’s army was

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not even one-fourth in size, but even more inferior in terms of provisions. Among the ranks of the disbelievers, there were 700 men clad in armour, whereas among the Muslims, there were only 100. The disbelievers had a cavalry unit of 200 men, whereas the Muslims only had 2 horses.”

(Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, pp. 248-249) When the Holy Prophetsa reached the area of the Banu Harithah, a horse of one of the companions waved its tail and hit his sword. Sensing danger, he immediately drew his sword. The narrator states that the Holy Prophetsa was always optimistic and never worried about ill omens. The Holy Prophetsa said to the companion whose sword it was: “Put your sword back into the sheath, because I sense that swords will surely be drawn today.” (As-Sirah Al-Nabawiyyah, Ibn Hisham, Vol. 3, pp. 447-449) This is what the Holy Prophetsa understood from this incident. He then turned to the companions and said: “Who will lead us close to the enemy?” i.e., to take them using a route that is not normally used. Upon this, Hazrat Abu Khaithamahra said: “O Messengersa of Allah! I will lead the way.” Ibn Sa’d and others have mentioned his name as Abu Hatamah.

Nonetheless, he took them to the neighbourhood of the Banu Harithah using the route that passed by their pastures and land. Taking the Muslim army along this route, they reached the mountain pass of Mount Uhud and set up camp. They encamped in such a way that Mount Uhud was behind them and Medina was in front of them. (Al-Sirah al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-‘Ilmiyyah, pp. 301-302) The Holy Prophetsa then addressed the Muslims. The Muslims were arranged in rows at the base of Mount Uhud.

On Saturday, the time for the Fajr [morning] prayer approached; the Muslims could see the idolaters in front of them.

Hazrat Bilalra called the Adhan and recited the Iqamah [to signal the start of the prayer].

The Holy Prophetsa then led the companions in the morning prayer. Muhammad bin Umar al-Aslami narrates that the Holy Prophetsa stood up before the Muslims and said: “O people! I advise you about those things that were given to me in the Book [Quran]; to abide by those injunctions [in the book] and to abstain from those things that have been forbidden. Today is a day in which you can gain reward and blessings.

Whosoever keeps this in mind, is the one who is patient, has firm conviction, and is content. (One must be patient if they wish to attain this.) Today you have gathered to fight against the enemy, which will be a vigorous task. There will be few people who can truly be steadfast, except for those whom Allah the Almighty guides, because Allah helps those people who are obedient to Him, whereas Satan assists those who are disobedient to Allah. Thus, begin your actions by showing patience in your Jihad and search for the favours that Allah has promised to you by means of it. It is incumbent upon you to follow the directives I have imparted to you, because I desire for you to be guided. Undoubtedly, discord and quarrelling is a sign of helplessness and weakness and Allah is displeased by this.

(There should be no discord; otherwise they

will not be helped nor will they succeed.)

O People! It has been placed in my heart that whosoever carries out unlawful deeds, Allah the Almighty distances Himself from that person. (Allah is not pleased by this.)

Whosoever abstains from unlawful actions, Allah the Almighty forgives their sins.

Whosoever sends salutations upon me once, Allah the Almighty and His angels will send down mercy upon him 10 times. Whoever does a good deed, whether it be to a believer or a disbeliever, then his reward will be ordained by Allah the Almighty. He will be rewarded instantly in this life and after an interval, he will also receive a reward for it in the Hereafter. Offering the Friday prayers is incumbent upon every person who believes in Allah and the Day of Resurrection, except for children, women, the sick and the slaves in captivity. Whoever shows indifference towards this, Allah the Almighty will show indifference to him.”

In essence, the Holy Prophetsa set out a complete set of guidelines, perhaps owing to the dream he had seen. It was a complete set of guidelines on how Muslims should conduct themselves. The Holy Prophetsa then said: “Allah the Almighty is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy. I have commanded you to follow all those deeds that I know will grant you nearness to Allah and I have warned you about all those deeds that will push you closer to Hellfire. The Faithful Spirit [Gabriel] has revealed to me and placed in my heart that no soul shall taste death until they have gained their rightful provisions.

Their provisions will not diminish, even if there is a delay in receiving those provisions.

(That is, Allah the Almighty will grant reward for one’s deeds. This refers to all types of provisions.) Therefore, fear your Lord, and act with moderation in your pursuit of your provisions, so that you may receive them with blessings, lest you be driven to hardship in pursuit of them. (Carry out virtuous deeds, attain the loftiest of morals and always strive to gain provisions that are lawful and pure), because what Allah has in store for man can only be attained through obedience to Him. Allah the Almighty has clearly defined for you what is lawful and what is unlawful, but in between these two there are many things which are doubtful.

Many people are unaware of them except for those whom Allah the Almighty has protected. Those of you who abstain from them will uphold their honour and their faith. And those who indulge in them (i.e., unlawful deeds), their example is like that shepherd who is close to his [forbidden] grazing pasture. It is nigh that he may enter that pasture. Every king has a pasture that is a forbidden pasture. Hearken, undoubtedly the forbidden pasture of Allah the Almighty are those things He has declared unlawful.

(Abstain from all those things that Allah has made clearly unlawful.) A believer compared to the entire population of the believers is like the example of the head compared to the body. When a person suffers from a headache, the entire body experiences pain.”

(Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-‘Ibad, Vol. 4 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar alKutub al-‘Ilmiyyah], pp. 189-190) If the Muslims remain mindful of these things today, then the enemy would not have the courage to even set their sights upon them. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira states: “On the Day of Uhud, the enemy walked from Mecca to Medina. The very weapons

that Abu Sufyan brought from Syria and for which the Holy Prophetsa travelled towards Badr in order to intercept [his trade caravan] and thereby the might of the disbelievers was completely shattered, the very same weapons were now gathered to be used against the Muslims. The following verse of the Quran alludes to this and those who spent in this cause:

َ� َ ُ �ٰ َ ُ ۡ َ​َ ‫ِ​ِا �َّن اَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡ َ​َن َکَف ُ​ُر ۡ​ۡوا ُیُۡن ِ​ِفُقۡوۡ َ​َن َا ۡ​ۡمَوَاَل َ ُ​ُہ ۡ​ۡم ِل ََِی ُ​ُص �ُّد ۡ​ۡوا َ​َع ۡ​ۡن َ​َس ِ​ِب ۡ​ۡی ِ​ِل الّٰل ِ​ِہ‬ َ� َُ َُ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ُۡ َُ ً َ ‫ؕ َف َ​َس ُ​ُیۡن ِ​ِفُقۡوَۡن َ​َہا ُث �َّم َتُکۡوۡ ُ​ُن َ​َعَل ۡ​ۡی ِ​ِہ ۡ​ۡم َ​َح ۡ​ۡس َ​َرًۃ ُث �َّم ُیۡغَل ُ​ُبۡوۡ َ​َن� َ​َواَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡ َ​َن‬ ۤ َ​َ َ َ� ‫َکَف ُ​ُرۤۡو�ا ِ​ِاٰلٰی َ​َج َ​َہَّن َ​َم ُیُ ۡ​ۡحَش ُ​ُر ۡ​ۡو َ​َن‬

“[Surely, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to turn men away from the way of Allah. They will surely continue to spend it; but then shall it become a source of regret for them. (Surah al-Anfal, Ch.8: V.37)] “In this battle, Bani Tahama and Bani Kinanah also took part and the enemy numbers had reached almost 3,000. They were all clad in armour and 700 of them were on mounts. Each and every one of them was eager to quickly exact revenge against the Muslims. This zealous army of men which comprised of many small tribes was under the command of Abu Sufyan and had firmly established their base in the northwest of Medina. The valley of Uhud was all that remained between them and the city of Medina. Having established their base, the disbelievers began to destroy the fields and orchards of the people of Medina.

The companions became extremely angry and the Muslims prepared for revenge. They earnestly requested the Holy Prophetsa to be granted permission to defend themselves and so the Holy Prophetsa took 1,000 men and left Medina in order to fight against them. One of the chieftains, Abdullah bin Ubayy, who resided in Medina and outwardly showed himself to be with the Muslims, right at the crucial moments before the battle, separated himself from the Muslims along with 300 of his men.

The Muslim army was now reduced from 1000 to just 700. This small army had only two horses, but despite this, they bravely marched forth. Passing through the date orchard, they arrived at the Mount of Uhud.

The Muslim army camped the entire night in the valley of the mount and after offering the Fajr prayer, they gathered on the battlefield.”

(Fasl-ul-Khitab, Pt. 1, pp. 124-125) In other words, the battle commenced at this time. The details of this shall be narrated in the future sermon.

I have been continually reminding members to pray for the Palestinians. So do continue to pray for them. In recent days, after the pause in fighting ended, exactly what was expected is taking place now. The Israeli government is bombarding and attacking every part of Gaza with even greater force than before. More innocent children and civilians are being martyred.

Now, even a representative of Congress in the United States, who perhaps belongs to the Jewish faith, has said that this is enough and that the United States must play its part in bringing this to an end. The President of the United States is also now hinting that this firing and the bombardment must end which is taking place in the North and the South simultaneously. Before it used to be said that nothing would be done in the South yet there are now attacks there too. However, we should not make the mistake of thinking that the words of the American President

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are a result of any sort of compassion for humanity, rather these words are for his own benefit, seeing as elections are coming up in the United States, and the younger population is calling for a ceasefire, as are Muslim Americans. Hence all this is being done to win votes, otherwise, there is no compassion for Palestinians or Muslims.

The voices of the Muslim countries are beginning to gain some strength, however until they unite and call for a ceasefire, there will be no benefit. May Allah the Almighty establish unity among Muslims.

The non-Muslim world knows that there is no unity in the Muslim world, rather Muslims are killing each other. Take the example of Yemen and similarly other [Muslim] countries; thousands of children and innocent people are being killed at the hands of Muslims, in fact, hundreds of thousands are being killed in some places. Consequently, this emboldens nonMuslims, who think that it is fine to inflict cruelties against Muslims, as they see that Muslims inflict cruelties on themselves as well. When Muslims do not care for the lives of other Muslims, then why would the enemy have any care? Allah the Almighty has strictly warned in the Quran against the taking of life of other Muslims, and has rendered a Muslim who does so to be hellbound. May Allah the Almighty enable the Muslims to unite and become a means of ending injustice in the world, rather than fighting amongst each other.

The UN has tried raising its voice, but who listens to them? They claim that they will do such and such, but they cannot do anything because there is no one who listens to them. The major powers exert their rights. May Allah the Almighty have mercy upon the Muslims.

In order to end these cruelties, we must pray and alongside this — as I have already informed the members through their jamaats — they should contact their local officials and politicians so that they raise their voices to end these injustices. Similarly, we must convey the same message among our contacts that we must strive to end these injustices. May Allah the Almighty save the innocent from injustices.

After the prayers, I shall lead two funeral prayers in absentia. The first is of respected Masuda Begum Akmal Sahiba of Holland.

She was the wife of the late respected Abdul Hakim Akmal Sahib, who was a missionary of the Jamaat. She passed away recently:

ۤ َ� �ٰ َ� ‫ِ​ِاَّنا ِلِّٰل ِ​ِہ َ​َو ِ​ِاَّنۤا ِ​ِاَل َ ۡ​ۡی ِ​ِہ ٰ​ٰر ِ​ِج ُ​ُعۡوۡ َ​َن‬

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

Her maternal grandfather, Mia Abdus Samad Sahibra and great maternal grandfather, Hazrat Mia Fateh Din Sahib Sekhwanra were from Qadian and both were companions of the Promised Messiahas. The deceased remained engaged in the service of faith for a long time in Holland along with her husband. Upon the instruction of Hazrat Musleh Maudra in 1957, Akmal Sahib came to Holland for the first time and his wife was not with him. She joined him in 1969 and later returned and then went again in 1986.

During the course of her married life, she spent approximately 15 years on her own

“

Friday 5 January 2024 | AL HAKAM

The UN has tried raising its voice, but who listens to them?

They claim that they will do such and such, but they cannot do

anything because there is no one who listens to them. The major powers exert their rights. May Allah the Almighty have mercy upon the Muslims.

In order to end these cruelties, we must pray and alongside this — as I have already informed the members through their

jamaats — they should contact their local officials and politicians so that they raise their voices to end these injustices. Similarly, we must convey the same message among our contacts that we must strive to end these injustices. May Allah the Almighty save the innocent from injustices. due to her husband serving in foreign lands.

Among her notable services during her time in Holland was the establishment of Lajna Imaillah Holland. She also had the honour of being the first President of Lajna Imaillah Holland. She had a relationship of profound sincerity and loyalty to Khilafat.

She was righteous, pious, and regular in offering prayers and keeping fasts. She was a musia. She is survived by three sons and a daughter, all of whom are sincerely serving the Jamaat in one way or another.

One of her sons used to be the President of Ansarullah [in Holland] and the other has perhaps been elected this year as the President of Ansarullah [Holland]. They are also rendering services aside from this as well. May Allah the Almighty grant forgiveness and mercy to the deceased and enable her children to carry on the legacy of her virtues.

The next mention is of Master Abdul Majeed Sahib, a life-devotee, who was a teacher at the Talimul Islam High School in Rabwah. He also passed away recently. He had moved to Canada after his retirement which is where he passed away.

ۤ َ� �ٰ َ� ‫ِ​ِاَّنا ِلِّٰل ِ​ِہ َ​َو ِ​ِاَّنۤا ِ​ِاَل َ ۡ​ۡی ِ​ِہ ٰ​ٰر ِ​ِج ُ​ُعۡوۡ َ​َن‬

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

He is survived by his wife, three sons and two daughters. His son Mazhar Majeed says, “My father possessed many great qualities.

He was very humble, and lived a very simple life. My mother tells me that from their marriage until his demise, she found

him to be an extremely virtuous person. A few years after getting married, one day, he was weeping as he prayed aloud. After he completed his prayer she asked him what he was praying for. He responded, ‘It is my desire to dedicate my life and to serve as a professor at the Talimul Islam High School in Rabwah. (He was previously elsewhere in his own area.) So, I have been praying that Allah the Almighty fulfils my desire and also makes my wife agreeable to this and grants her heart contentment.’” In any case, his wife said, “You should immediately write to Khalifatul Masih requesting to become a life-devotee.” By the grace of Allah the Almighty he wrote the request to become a devotee – this was during the time of the Khalifatul Masih IIra and he approved the request upon which he moved to Rabwah.

He says, “Every month, when my father received his pay, first and foremost he would visit the finance secretary in order to offer his financial contributions. After that, he would take whatever was left and hand it to my mother. After moving to Rabwah he lived under very difficult circumstances yet he never complained. He never expressed a desire for worldly or material things.

He always advised us siblings to offer the prayers on time and to remain attached to the Jamaat and Khilafat.” At that time, the Jamaat’s financial circumstances were not very good and there would be great difficulty, despite which he lived with great patience. He was teaching at the time when I was in school, and I observed him myself; these things are not just something his son

is saying in order to praise his father. He certainly possessed these virtuous qualities.

Non-Ahmadis were also impressed by him.

In 1985 when the government promoted him, or in 1973 or perhaps after 1974 when the school was nationalised he chose to remain at the school. He spent some time at the high school and then in 1985 when he was promoted and sent as the headmaster of the Islamiyyah High School Bhera. The Deputy Headmaster there was also the Imam of the Jami mosque and it seemed he would oppose him on account of him being an Ahmadi, however due to his good character, he respected him a great deal and was very courteous to him.

Someone relates, “One day, I heard him saying to the other teachers that despite him being a Qadiani, he is a very virtuous person.”

This is how he did silent tabligh such that he even impacted those who opposed him. His students would often come to visit him and would say, “We used to be your students.”

However, he used to be most proud of those students and mentioned those who went on to dedicate their lives for the sake of God. He would very happily say that such and such life-devotee used to be his student. He had a great deal of honour and respect for life-devotees. May Allah the Almighty grant the deceased His forgiveness and mercy, elevate his station, and enable his children to carry on the legacy of his virtues.

(Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 29 December 2023, pp. 3-7. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Editor-in-chief: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Executive editors: Ataul Fatir Tahir, Aqeel Ahmed Kang | Research coordinator: Awwab Saad Hayat | Associate editors: Jalees Ahmad, Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Translations: M Adam Ahmad | Design: Tahmeed Ahmad | © Al Hakam 2024