Al Hakam - 22 February 2019

From the Markaz Local and Regional Lajna UK Presidents Mulaqat

Responding to Allegations Part one of Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas

Page 3

A

Page 7

100 Years Ago...

Friday Sermon

Our London Letter

25 January 2019, from Baitul Futuh Mosque

Page 5

Page 9

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 22 February 2019 | Issue XLVIX Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Security Without Health and Education?

CC Image courtesy of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center | Flickr

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday stated that Pakistan would retaliate if India launched an attack against them.

We do not intend to go into the geopolitical debate that has haunted the Indo-Pak borders for many decades, but interestingly enough, this warning reminds us of the ever-rising defence budget of Pakistan which is now above

one trillion rupees per year; far higher than combined budgets of key sections like health and education.

“Pakistan is a security state whose parliament never debates the defence budget. The military’s expenditure does not even go through a parliamentary audit,” says Muhammad Ziauddin, former editor of the Express Tribune English newspaper.

A country where more than 20 million children are deprived of schools and most of its citizens lack basic health facilities, just around 0.8 percent of the total GDP is spent on health and 1.8 percent on education which shows the seriousness and sincerity of the government towards its citizens.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, has on many

occasions drawn the attention of state leaders towards the fact that everything else comes second; what comes first is the wellbeing of the human population of the world. He has also warned that neglecting human wellbeing will eventually only increase global unrest.

Details can be read at www.alislam. org/pathway Continued on page 2

2

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

Muslim Integration in the West One of the remarkable developments of globlisation is the flow of people crossing borders, ending up in new environments and having to resort to different cultures.

According to The Economist, “30 million Muslims living in Europe and America are gradually becoming integrated”. Muslims gather once a week, every Friday in Washington’s Church of Epiphany and offer prayer. The Economist, on 14 February, published an article on how Muslims are trying to integrate in the Western society.

Defining integration is a challenging task, as integration is the process by which immigrants become accepted into a society, therefore the requirements for acceptance can vary from country to country.

American Muslims are seemingly far more integrated in their society than the European Muslims in their respective societies as, to some, the relationship of Islam and Europe is full of conflict since the time of the Ottoman Empire.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat has long been integrated across the globe, especially in Europe, with Ahmadi missionaries arriving in the West as early as 1913.

On 11 May 2016, the Supreme Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa was interviewed by Sveriges Television (Swedish TV) at the Mahmood Mosque in Malmo, Sweden. During the interview, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa was asked how he saw the surge of immigrants from the Muslim world to Europe and the integration of immigrants potentially giving rise to terrorism and youth radicalisation.

Regarding the issue of integration of immigrants into the Western society, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: “For me, true integration is to love the country in which you live and to be completely loyal to it. Thus, all immigrants should be loyal to their adopted nation; they should truly love it; they should honour it; they should be law abiding and work for its prosperity and progress. This is integration.”

Pursuit of Space Israel is aiming to launch an unmanned spacecraft – nearly the size of a typical washing machine – on the moon, and it is to be called Beresheet or Genesis.

While half the world population is living on $2.50 a day, wealthy countries are busy funding their space projects.

Ahmad Faraz, a famous Urdu poet, ‫ ت‬very rightly said: !‫�بس��ی�اں اچدن اتسروں یک اسبےن واول‬ ‫رکّۂ ارض ہپ ےتھجب ےلچ اجےت ہ ی� رچاغ‬ “As you populate the moon and the stars; Forget not that lights on Earth are becoming extinct.”

Billions of dollars are spent on space projects every year around the world. How beneficial does this investment prove for the general betterment of humanity?

We do not mean to contest any space ventures here, nor do we intend to challenge the pursuit of intelligence and knowledge, but we do however like to ponder over the question whether every state should be joining this race, sspecially the states that can play a pivotal role in bringing about peace in the world.

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

This Week in History 22 - 28 February 23 February 1901: Ijaz-ul-Masih (Miracles of the Messiah), a book of the Promised Messiahas, was published by Zia-ul-Islam Press, Qadian. It is a remarkable work in Arabic by the Promised Messiahas which was prompted by the devious tricks of Pir Meher Ali Shah. This masterpiece was penned by the Promised Messiahas in a very short period of time.

24 February 1887: Alexander Russell Webb sent a letter to the Promised Messiahas. This American writer, publisher and the United States Consul to the Philippines sent his first letter to the Promised Messiahas from America on 17 December 1886.

24 February 1898: The Promised Messiahas sent a report to Lieutenant Governor Nawab Bahadur which contained details regarding the condition of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya and some basic information about its founder. At the end of this 16-page announcement, there was a list of 317 respected members of the Jamaat.

24 February 1899: Owing to a court hearing, the Promised Messiahas departed to Gurdaspur from Qadian. The judge, Mr JM Dowie, gave his verdict and acquitted him of all charges.

26 February 1899: The Promised Messiahas published an announcement to convey to his followers in which he mentioned the details of the decision regarding the criminal case under section 107. Seven hundred copies of this announcement were published from Zia-ul-Islam Press, Qadian.

27 February 1905: The Promised Messiahas published a one-page announcement containing general guidance for members of the Jamaat. At the end, he stated that the book Nusratul-Haq was being printed in Qadian and had been handed over to Pir Manzoor Muhammad Sahib so that he may print and publish it. An indication that the Promised Messiahas began writing this book in the month of February is given in Mujmu‘a Ishtiharat (Vol. 2, p. 628).

27 February 1907: An earthquake struck India for the second time in accordance with a prophecy of the Promised Messiahas.

28 February 1898: The incident of Maulvi Muhammad Hussein Batalvi’s humiliation and admonishment which he faced in the governmental court for demanding a chair that resulted from his enmity against the Promised Messiahas is well-

known in our history. On this day, Maulvi Muhammad Hussein Batalvi sent a letter to the Promised Messiahas in which he strongly denied the occurrence of this incident.

28 February 1903: The Promised Messiah’sas Urdu book, Naseem-e-Dawat was published on this day.

In the month of February 1903, some new Muslim friends, out of sympathy and goodwill and without consulting the Promised Messiahas, issued a poster, Arya Samaj aur Qadian, in which they very politely invited the Arya Hindus and Sikhs to have a prayer duel with the Promised Messiahas or hold a religious conference to seek the truth about their religion.

(Al Hakam, 21 February 1903) These Muslim friends never expected a vile provocation in response to it. On 8 February 1903, the Promised Messiahas received a revelation from God:

ٌ َّ ‫َح ْر ٌب ُم َہیجَة‬

“A furious battle.” It was thought to indicate that the poster issued by the Muslim friends would evoke a violent response with vile and filthy abuse.

The revelation came true when the same evening a highly vituperative poster of the Arya Hindus reached the Promised Messiahas. It was dated 7 February 1903. It bore the heading in Urdu, A Response to the Tall Claims of the Disciples of the Qadiani Pope. It was followed by a similar vile writing in an English newspaper of the Arya Samaj.

Another abusive poster was issued by one Tooti Ram. This book of the Promised Messiahas dealt with the dire situation in a most suitable manner.

28 February 1906: A Muslim from Bans Bareli, being upset because of a book Yanabiul Islam by a Christian author, sent a painful letter to the Promised Messiahas in the last days of February. In response to it, the Promised Messiahas penned a detailed letter in March 1906 which was published

by Magazine Press, Qadian in the form of a book named Chashma-e-Masihi (The Fountain of Christianity). The Christian author argued in his book that Islam had brought no new teachings, and the Holy Quran was based mostly on tales of the past – some true, some wrong, some plagiarised – and this act was attributed to the Holy Prophetsa.

This charge against the Holy Quran and the Holy Prophetsa was enough to prompt the Promised Messiahas to write a convincing rebuttal with reasons and arguments.

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Virtue of the Five Daily Prayers

An Injustice Against Islam

Hazrat Abu Hurairah, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Do you think that if there was a river by the door of any one of you, and he bathed in it five times each day, there would be any trace of dirt left on him?” They said, “No trace of dirt would be left on him.” He said, “That is the likeness of the five daily prayers. By means of them, Allah erases sins.”

Alas for Islam! Islam has always been wronged. When two brothers are in dispute, the elder brother, on account of his age and rank, oppresses the younger one for no reason whatsoever, because the former believes he commands a greater right due to his having been born first. However, both are entitled to equal rights. A similar form of injustice is being committed against Islam, which came after all the past religions. The errors committed by these religions were corrected by Islam and since they consider themselves greater, they have become displeased with Islam just as it is customary for an ignorant person to grow hostile towards the one who means them well. A large family, ancient ancestry and wealth often make a person arrogant. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, belonged to an impoverished, small and newly formed group of people. So in the beginning, people of other faiths did not accept him. People always act unjustly towards the truth.

(Sunan an-Nasai, Kitab al-Salah)

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 6)

3

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

From the Markaz

Local and Regional Lajna UK Presidents Mulaqat Zuna Khan Lajna Imaillah UK

n Saturday, 16 February 2019, local O and regional Lajna Imaillah UK presidents were blessed to be granted a mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand.

131 local sadrs and 15 regional sadrs from across the country attended. This was a historic occasion as it was the first time Lajna Imaillah UK were privileged to have this opportunity.

During the course of the mulaqat, the sadrs were given the opportunity to seek guidance and ask questions of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. The questions asked were on a wide variety of topics including tarbiyat issues being faced in their majlis, integration of new converts into the Jamaat, effective methods of tabligh, chanda collection, raising children and how to re-establish contact with members who no longer attend Jamaat functions.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa graciously

provided guidance and wisdom regarding the various issues raised. Huzooraa repeatedly stressed the need for sadrs to work on reforming themselves first and to show patience and love to their members. Huzooraa also guided on the importance of developing strong personal relationships between sadrs and Lajna members and reminded them that tarbiyat training takes time.

The mulaqat ended just before Zuhr, where the sadrs were very fortunate to offer their prayers behind their beloved Imamaa.

Alhamdolillah, the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive. Many sadrs expressed their gratitude to Huzooraa for giving them so much of his precious time and for the loving guidance he shared. Many expressed how memorable the experience was and how they now felt inspired and re-energised to discharge their duties.

May Allah enable all of us to better serve the Jamaat and Lajna Imaillah and discharge our duties to the best of our abilities.

Norway Ansar National Amila Mulaqat with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih

I

n our previous issues of Al Hakam, we have published news of different groups such as Ansar, Lajna, Khuddam, students and Waqf-e-Nau who travel from around the world to visit their beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalfiatul Masihaa, and seek guidance on various matters.

On 17 February, the Norway Majlis Ansarullah Amila had a mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. The group’s main focus and aim was to seek guidance from Huzooraa on various matters.

Huzooraa commenced the mulaqat with silent prayer and then enquired from each Nasir regarding their duties and respective roles.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa paid great

emphasis on offering the five daily prayers, reciting the Holy Quran and listening to the Friday Sermons.

Whilst talking about the speech that Huzooraa delivered at the UK Ansar Ijtema, Huzooraa instructed the qaid of tarbiyat to extract points and write a summary of the speech and to then ensure that all Ansar in Norway read it. Huzooraa stated that the main focus of the speech was regarding the importance of Salat.

Along with seeking guidance, the Ansar also had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa various questions.

One member of Majlis Ansarullah Norway asked Huzooraa how they can involve more Ansar in Jamaat work and

activities.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa stated, “First, it is important for all the Ansar to understand their role, and in order to do this, tarbiyat is required, especially at this age as their children will look towards them.” Huzooraa further stated, “If you keep in mind the true meaning of Ansar [helpers] and Nasir [helper], then you will realise the true meaning behind Ansarullah.”

One Nasir, alluding to the Friday Sermon where Huzooraa mentioned the dangers of playing Fortnite (a popular online game), asked Huzooraa regarding the game and requested to briefly shed some more light on the matter.

Answering the question, Huzooraa stated, “I have already talked about this and after doing so, I have received letters from people around the world who have said that they have stopped playing.”

Further stating the reason behind banning the game, Huzooraa stated, “Due to this, when children become addicted to the game, they are forced to spend money to enter the next stage and this has, in many cases, resulted in emptying the bank accounts of their parents.”

At the end of the mulaqat, the Ansar were fortunate to have a group photo with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

4

Annual Peace Walk in Trinidad and Tobago Qasid Waraich Missionary, Trinidad and Tobago

O

n Sunday, 27 January, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Trinidad and Tobago hosted its 7th Annual Peace Walk.

Members from across the country began gathering at the Jamaat headquarters in Preysal at 6:30am. By the grace of Allah, over 130 members, dressed in white, participated in this five-kilometre walk.

The Peace Walk is held to create awareness about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and to clear the misconceptions regarding the true teachings of Islam.

During this walk, Khuddam held banners bearing the Jamaat motto “Love for all, hatred for none” and the logo of Humanity First. Children and Lajna members waved flags with various messages of peace.

As the members passed through the streets, one of the Ansar brothers presented a brief introduction of the Jamaat

on a loudspeaker and invited the local community to join us on this endeavour.

Local residents were curious to learn about the purpose of the Peace Walk.

Many came out of their homes and stores to show their support. The Khuddam on duty were asked several questions regarding the Jamaat. Some people requested to be informed about the following year’s Peace

Walk in advance so that they could also participate.

Although it was difficult for senior members to walk the entire circuit, they were still given an equal opportunity to take part.

For their convenience, vehicles were arranged to follow behind the walkers to ensure that they could participate to their fullest.

As the members completed the Peace Walk and returned to the headquarters, they were served a delicious Trinidadian corn soup. As the day came to an end, participants got the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate their efforts.

By the grace of Allah, this was a very successful event. May Allah continue to enable Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya to spread the true teachings of Islam and Ahmadiyyat, under the guidance of our beloved Imamaa.

Sirat-un-Nabi Jalsa Virginia Manahil Khan Virginia, USA

he Ahmadiyya Jamaat of Virginia T Central and Virginia North conducted their annual Sirat-un-Nabi Jalsa on January

27 as they remembered their chief and master, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

The event took place in Masjid Mubarak and was attended by a large and diverse group of members of the Jamaat, totaling more than 250 participants.

The common goal set by all the participants and guests was to hear the word of Allah, gain knowledge about the admirable life of the Holy Prophetsa, and most of all, to attain as much inspiration as possible to lead a path similar to the one set by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa himself.

The event commenced with a reading from the Holy Quran followed by an Arabic poem written by the Promised Messiahas expressing his great love for the Holy Prophetsa. An addition to the Jalsa this year was the successful attempt to include the younger members of the local Jamaat.

The young members of Tahir Academy

gave three different yet very insightful presentations about the life of the Holy Prophetsa, including topics such as The Childhood of the Holy Prophetsa, The Holy Prophetsa as a Father and The Holy Prophet’s Marriage with Hazrat Khadijara. All of the presentations were knowledgeable and moving for all in attendance.

Another addition to the event this year was an essay competition. The English and Urdu Essay writing competition was conducted as an open-ended invitation to all, including Atfal, Nasirat, Khuddam, Lajna and Ansar, with The Holy Prophetsa – the Exemplary Worshipper of Allah as the general topic for all. As a result, 16 submissions were received for the English essay competition and two for the Urdu essay.

The essay competition itself proved to be a very innovative and stimulating experience for all the participants, while also giving an opportunity to learn about the life and countless qualities of the Holy Prophetsa first hand.

The winning Urdu and English essays were also read out during the event and will

be published later in the Ahmadiyya Gazette of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA. Subsequently, a brief video was presented through MTA resources, displaying the excellences of Holy Prophetsa, based on narrations included in Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa Friday Sermons.

To end the event, the regional missionary Faran Rabbani Sahib delivered a speech on A Day in the Life of the Holy Prophetsa. The heart-warming and poignant speech gave the listeners multitudes to think about, analyse their own lives and motivate themselves to start an expedition to follow the course set through the ideal practices by the Holy Prophetsa himself.

The Jalsa was then concluded with silent prayer led by Faran Rabbani Sahib, followed by the Zuhr and Asr prayers and lunch served to attendees.

The event was a refreshing way for Jamaat members to glance within their souls, step away from the materialistic aspects of the daily hustle and bustle, and enliven their faith that might have been lost somewhere within the temporary sparkle of the secular world.

Health

Hyperlipidaemia Dr Noureen Ahmad General Practitioner, Belgium

Hyperlipidaemia is a condition when lipid or fat levels are high in the blood. This can be under the form of cholesterol and triglycerides. When there is a high lipid level, it cannot be removed properly from the blood. The excess fat is deposited in the blood vessels and keeps accumulating, affecting the blood flow and depriving blood and oxygen to organs such as the heart, brain and other organs. The long-term problems that this can cause are heart attacks and strokes, which can also be extremely fatal.

Our blood contains different kinds of fat, like cholesterol. There is an LDL-cholesterol, which is known as the “bad” cholesterol as it transports cholesterol to cells and blood vessels and can start building up in the vessels causing blockage of the arteries. The HDLcholesterol is the “good” cholesterol, which transports cholesterol back to the liver for it to be brokendown and excreted out of the body.

Triglycerides are another type of lipids in the blood, which are a form of fat stored in the cells and used for energy, however high levels of these pose problems for the liver and pancreas as well as heart problems.

The causes of hyperlipidaemia can be due to an unhealthy diet, smoking, alcohol, being overweight, less physical activity, diabetes mellitus and kidney, liver or thyroid insufficiency. Patients using steroids also have a high risk for developing hyperlipidaemia. In some families, there can be an underlying genetic disorder, which can lead to familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). FH can cause extremely high levels of cholesterol and can cause heart diseases at a very young age if left untreated. Usually FH is inherited and passed down through families.

The diagnosis of hyperlipidaemia is made by evaluating the lipid levels of all the different type of fats in the blood. To exclude underlying causes, tests for thyroid, liver, kidney and blood glucose are also carried out.

Despite no acute clinical symptoms in the moment, after the diagnosis of hyperlipidaemia, it is necessary to treat the high lipid levels to prevent many diseases from occurring, which can seriously affect the life expectancy.

Primary treatment of hyperlipidaemia depends on lifestyle changes. It is important to have a healthy diet and avoid saturated fats, usually found in butter, ghee, patisseries, cheese and red meat. The

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM UK health guidelines recommend a maximum of 30 grams of saturated fat a day for the average man and a maximum 20 grams per day for the average woman.

Monounsaturated fats like olive oil, avocados and nuts are thought to be able to lower the LDL levels and raise HDL in the blood. Food rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish (mackerel, salmon and herring) are also good for you and can reduce triglyceride levels in some people. However too much omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to obesity. Thereofore for people with a high triglyceride levels, at least 1-2 portions of oily fish a week is thought to be beneficial.

There are also supplements available containing fish oils and can be used in individuals who are unable to eat enough fish. Besides this, a good variety of fruits and vegetables can also lower the blood cholesterol, for instance, vegetables such as soybeans, lentils, okra, eggplants, potatoes and fruits like fresh figs, berries and apples.

Recently, there has been cholesterol-lowering products such as margarines; these contain plant sterols (similar to cholesterol) and reduce the cholesterol absorption in the intestines. This can lead to a small decrease in the cholesterol blood level, but it is advised to avoid them as a long-term use, as it can also affect the absorption of the fatsoluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, K) from the intestines.

Behavioural changes such as more exercise and smoking cessation can also lead to more production of HDL, the good cholesterol.

In some circumstances, the doctor can start with medication for hyperlipidaemia. This is usually when lifestyle changes do not decrease the high lipids in the blood. A high cardiovascular risk such as smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus can also lead to starting medication for hyperlipidaemia.

These medications can be statins, fibrates and nicotinic acid.

Statins decrease high levels of cholesterol whereas fibrates and nicotinic acid are effective against triglycerides.

The doctor will start medications based on the clinical condition of the patient followed by a control test after a few months to analyse the efficiency of the used medication.

This treatment can be continued if an improvement is observed but blood check-ups are still required regularly. With no improvement, the dose of the medication can be elevated or other medications can be suggested or added to an existing treatment.

5 100 Years Ago...

Our London Letter A letter written for the Review of Religions recounting some of his experiences whilst serving in England as a missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. This letter dates back a hundred years ago.

The Review of Religions, January & February 1919 Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra

Cross or Christ?

“You won’t be cross,” I said to my land-lady with whom I had once put up in a seaside town of England. “You won’t be cross Mrs … if I ask you to remove the wooden cross on the chimney-piece of my room? I don’t like the cross – an instrument used by the wicked people for torturing the holy men of God as Jesus, his companions and followers were.”

“Oh, no,” said the lady.

“There is nothing to be cross in that. I will remove it from there. [I] myself do not like the cross. It was given to my child as a present and I kept it there. I can’t understand why High Churchmen make so much of it.”

Really, I wonder why Christians are so fond of [the] cross. They place it on the Church minarets.

They hang it around their necks. They keep it on the altar. Some bow before it. Some kneel before it. Others go so far as to worship it. I don’t find this compatible even with their own present religious doctrines, to say nothing of those taught and practised by Jesus himself. It was Christ as they think who by victory over death brought salvation to them, not the cross which tortured or killed the Christ, their saviour.

Just fancy what the people will think of the man who makes an image of the long-range Big Bertha German gun and worships it because it killed those who gave up their lives for their king and country. Will he be a wise man?

The cross was the instrument used by the Devil and his friends to torment and kill the blessed Jesus. Ah, what a pain the spirit of Jesus might be feeling, when even those who call him “My Lord, My Lord” are loving and adoring it so much and spending a great deal of their money, time, labour and thought on it.

I think this was one of the causes that moved

his spirit to reappear in some form in those days.

And certainly he has appeared again, just as the Prophet Elijah appeared in John the Baptist.

And if you are willing to receive it, “Ahmad” is the Promised Messiah that was to come. “He that hath ears to hear let him hear.”

He has proved his claims by miracles, arguments and teachings.

One of his great achievements is that he successfully proved that the cross and the advocates of the cross were not victorious over Jesus Christ, because he did not die an accursed death on the cross, but he was victorious over the cross and the advocates of the cross that failed to take his life. He came down from it in a swoonlike state, walked about and ate with his friends for forty days in the same neighbourhood, then went up a mountain and, hid in the clouds, crossed over the borders of that land, travelled through other countries till at last he reached [Kashmir] which was inhabited by the lost tribes of the Israelites, lived there to a good old age, died an honourable death like other prophets of God and his tomb can still be seen in Srinagar, the capital town of [Kashmir].

The tradition of the country, history, the old Gospel, The Crucifixion by an Eye-Witness and above all the latest revelation of God given to one who is the Christ of the day and a messenger from the Almighty and All-Knowing all prove that it is the Christ who should be honoured and not the cross.

O ye who call yourselves Christians, remember that you are following a wrong way by honouring the cross. Better correct your mistake even now. It is never too late to mend. Remove all the crosses from your flags, decorations, paintings, and memorials, from your minds and from everywhere and follow the Messiah of the

day to have an everlasting life in the pleasure of your Creator, the One God who alone must be adored and worshipped.

A prophecy fulfilled My letter published in the Daily Echo of Bournemouth dated 20 January 1919 is given below: “Sir, as we read in the papers, King Hussein has now taken possession of another holy city of the Moslem world, viz., Medina. The word Medina, or more properly el-Medina, means “The City” being famous for containing the master-Prophet’s tomb. It was the centre of the Islamic world during the reign of the four chief Caliphs (successors) of the Prophet. This change of the rule from the Turks to the Sayeds (the direct descendants of the Prophet) will be thankfully looked upon by the Arabs specially, and the Mohammedans all over the world generally, except those who were vainly dreaming of a political pan-Islamism under the suzerainty of the Ottoman Power.

“Islam, as a religion, has nothing to do with politics. ‘No religious wars are now allowed’ said the Moslem prophet, Ahmad, of Qadian, India, not many years ago, ‘and if any Moslem ruler takes up Jehad (religions war,) he shall certainly fail, and this will be a sign of the truth of my claim and teachings.’

“It was the ill-fate of the Turks to prove first of all the truth of this prophecy. King Hussein’s securing the surrender of Medina by arrangement and not by assault, endears him the more to the Moslem hearts. King Hussein has really proved himself a wise and pious man by respecting the sacred relics. Thanks to the wise policy of the British Government in helping the Arabs to regain their traditional independence.

“Yours Faithfully. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq.

11, Methuen-road, 18 January 1919.”

A thin man Bishop Mitchinson has died leaving an estate of Rs. 72,000. He has left the wine and the beer in the cellars to his successors. For all this, it is hoped that he, like many others of his rank in the Church, was thin enough to pass through the needle’s eye into the Kingdom of God.

Jamaat Georgia’s Efforts for Local Populace he Ahmadiyya Muslim Association T Georgia (AMAG) held its first Blood Drive on Saturday, 2 February 2019 in

Tbilisi, Georgia.

The event was held in AMAG’s office, in partnership with the National Blood Bank and AG MELCO Elevator Georgia Co LLC. A total of 17 people attended, with 9 people donating blood.

The National Blood Bank expressed immense gratitude for the donation and hoped to work with AMAG in the future.

Alhamdolillah.

The following day, on 3 February, AMAG held its first Peace Seminar.

The Peace Seminar aims to spread peace, love, harmony and most importantly the true teachings of Islam across Georgia. The event consisted of two short speeches on historical personalities that undertook peace work, a speech on the Ahmadiyya Jamaat

and their peace work, a quiz competition based on the speeches, lunch and a prize and gift ceremony.

26 people attended the event, which was held from 12pm to 3pm. All participants were given gift bags containing AMAG pens and notepads, as well as an introductory

pamphlet to the Ahmadiyya Community and some extracts in the form of a booklet from Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa speeches.

The participants advised that this event was unique for them, and expressed their gratitude and willingness to attend future events. Alhamdolillah.

6

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

MKA Swaziland Hold First Ijtema Abbas bin Suleiman Swaziland Correspondent

Responding to Allegations

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas Part I

ajlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya M Swaziland held their first Ijtema in Hlatikulu on January 26, 2019.

A total of 59 participated in the Ijtema with 15 external guests invited for the programme.

The Ijtema started with the recitation of the Holy Quran and translation of the verses in Siswati – the local language of Swaziland. After this, an English poem of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra titled To the Nation’s Youth was recited and translated in Siswati.

This was followed by the Khuddam Pledge. After the pledge, an opening address was given by the missionary of Swaziland on what Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya is and the essence of the Ijtema. Following this was a lecture on the existence of God. There was a break for sports, and despite the lack of certain necessities, Khuddam were able to play a football match with the local team.

Religious competitions at the Ijtema consisted of memorisation of the Quran, memorisation of prayers and memorisation of Salat, as well as a quiz including topics of general knowledge.

After the completion of the competitions, Zuhr and Asr prayers were offered, followed by lunch.

The Ijtema came to a close with an awards ceremony, questions and answers and the closing prayer.

Ahmadiyya Representation at Spain Festival Abdusalaam Stedman, Spain Correspondent

n 2-3 O February 2019, in the town of Talamanca de

Jarama, not far from Madrid, a festival is held every year during which people of different cultures are invited to participate.

A delegation of ten representatives of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Madrid attended the festival for the second year running.

At a stand, they offered a display of books and pamphlets, and via a television screen, a recitation of poems.

Fazli Qamar Ilahi Sahib recited Surah al-Fatihah and a poem by the Promised Messiahas.

The delegation was able to greet the mayor of the town where more than 300 people took part in the festival. During the event new contacts were made both with Spanish people and persons from various Arabic-speaking countries. In total, 45 books, 400 pamphlets and 200 letters were distributed.

“All of my prophecies have been fulfilled, or in the case of those prophecies which consist of two parts, at least one part has come true so far. Even if a person were to strive all his life in the hope of finding a prophecy that was uttered from my mouth, about which one could assert that it has remained unfulfilled, he will not be able to find a single one.” (Noah’s Ark, p. 10) After citing this extract, the opponents of the Jamaat deduce of their own accord that even if a person were to strive their entire life in the hope of finding a single true prophecy of the Promised Messiahas, they would not be able to find a single one that they could concretely prove.

In addressing this challenge of opponents, a few classic examples of prophecies and their fulfilment shall be mentioned.

Example 1 In the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty states addressing Abrahamas:

َّ َّ َ ُ ٰ َ َ ً َ َ َُْْ ّ َ ْ ْ ْ ‫لی ک ِ ّل ضا ِم ٍر یَا ِتی َن‬ ‫اس ِبالح ِج یاتوک رِجالا و ع‬ ‫َو ا ِذ ْن فِی الن‬ ِ َّ ُ ‫ِم ْن ک ِ ّل ف ٍج َع ِم ْی ٍق‬

“And proclaim unto mankind the Pilgrimage. They will come to thee on foot, and on every lean camel, coming by every distant track.” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.28) In accordance with this verse, every single individual after Abrahamas who travelled to perform Umrah and Hajj till this day and who will do as such till the Day of Judgement bear witness to the fact that the tidings which God had informed Abrahamas of came to pass and the Holy Quran, which had foretold this tiding, proved true.

Similarly, addressing the Promised Messiahas, Allah the Almighty informed him: َ ّٰ ُّ ُْ َ ْ َ َ َ​َ َ َ ُّ ‫الا ا ِّن ن ْص َر الل ِہ ق ِریْ ٌب۔ یَاتِ ْیک ِم ْن ک ِل ف ٍ ّج ع ِم ْی ٍق یَات ْو َن ِم ْن ک ِل‬ َ َ ‫ف ٍ ّج ع ِم ْی ٍق‬ “Hearken, the help of Allah is near. His help will come to you from every distant track. People will come to help you from every distant track.” (Tadhkirah [UK, 2009] p. 57) This was divinely revealed to him in 1882 in which it was foretold that inanimate objects, for instance gifts, money, clothes etc. would come to him and intellectual people would also flock to him.

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas used to reside in a village to which proper roads would not even lead. In that age, no buses or trains used to head in that direction. The closest railway station was at a distance of 12 miles. In that village, there was no trade and industry. There were no markets. Yet, in such a scenario, God Almighty informed him that people and financial gifts would come to him.

After these tidings, each individual who visited Qadian and all varieties of gifts sent to him are testament to the truthfulness of this divine revelation.

If God Almighty had not informed him

of these tidings through His revelation, mentioning these tidings and attributing them to God would have been an affront to the self-honour of God. It would have resulted in no person ever coming to him, nor any gift.

Example 2 Addressing the Promised Messiahas, Allah the Almighty stated: َّ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ‫الناس‬ ‫فحان ان تعان و تعرف بین‬ “The time has come that you should be helped and be made well known among people.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya – Part IV, p. 366) That is, he would be made renowned in the world. We ask our readers to reflect, with hand on heart, whether the promise which God had made to him has been fulfilled or not? Has God not made him renowned? Or is it the contrary? Has this prophecy proven true or not?

Example 3 Allah the Almighty gave him the tidings: َ ُ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ ٰ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ّٰ َ َ ْ ُ َ ‫اءک َو ی ُ ْبد ُء‬ ‫سبحان الل ِہ تبارک و تعالی زاد مجدک۔ ینق ِطع ٓاب‬ َ ‫ِم ْنک‬ “All kinds of Holiness belong to Allah, who possesses all blessings, and is the Highest Being. He has raised your status. The name and remembrance of your forefathers will be cut off – that is, they will not be remembered in their independent capacities – and God will initiate respect and honour with you.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya – Part IV, p. 367) When God had disclosed this future occurrence, the total number of men in his family were around 70. In such a backdrop, Allah informed him that the progeny of his forefathers would thereon be brought to an end and the inception of his family would occur through his person.

What an immense claim made in this divine revelation! The progeny of all people alive in his family at the time was declared

7

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM to come to an end and it was promised that the progeny of his family only would spread through his person.

It may be the case that a few people are coincidentally omitted from families, who are incapable of producing children, but in this instance, it was foretold that all the progenies of all people alive in the family would cease. How magnificent is the promise of continuing the family lineage through him!

No human can even foretell whether they will remain alive or whether their progeny will endure or otherwise. Thus, the progenies of all people in his family came to an end and only the progeny of those endured who, taking the oath of initiation, became Ahmadi.

Today, on this earth, there is not a single human who can refute the truthfulness of this divine revelation. No one can say that they are not of the progeny of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas but are contrarily of the progeny of the disbelieving faction of his family. If God Almighty had not vouchsafed this tiding to him, he would have otherwise been challenging the self-honour of God by making such an extraordinary claim.

Example 4 Allah the Almighty exalted the Holy Prophetsa to the station of prophethood as a result of which members of his family, inhabitants of his city, the outskirts of the city, all tribes of the nation, Arabian idolaters, Jews, Christians, the Roman Empire and the Persian Empire turned against him. Allah promisedٰ him: َّ َ َ ُ ْ َ ُ ّ َ ‫اس‬ ِ ‫و اللہ یع ِصمک ِمن الن‬ “And Allah will protect thee from men.”

(Surah al-Maidah, Ch.5: V.68) Nobody was able to kill him. Allah safeguarded him and he passed away naturally.

It was this very promise that Allah had made to the Promised Messiahas. Allah stated: َ ُ َّ َ ُ ْ َ ْ َّ ْ َ ّٰ َ ّٰ َ ‫اس ف َی ْع ِص َ ُمک الل ُہ ِم ْن ِع ْن ِد ِہ ۔ ی َ ْع ِص ُمک الل ُہ‬ ‫و اِن لم یع ِصمک الن‬ َّ َ ُ ْ َ ْ ّ ْ َ ْ ْ ُ‫الناس‬ ‫ِمن ِعن ِد ِہ و اِن لم یع ِصمک‬ “And if all people refrain from safeguarding you, God will safeguard you.

And God will certainly safeguard you with His help even if all the people refrain from it.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya – Part IV, pp.

389-390) After the descent of this divine revelation, Hazrat Ahmad’sas family became his antagonists. Inhabitants of Qadian, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and all Muslim sects bore enmity to him. Edicts calling of his disbelief were pronounced. Fatwas for his death were proclaimed. He was legally tried for murder, but as of the case of the Holy Prophetsa, Allah frustrated the murder schemes of all his opponents, safeguarded him throughout his entire life and he passed away by natural means.

Example 5 Addressing an opponent, Maulvi Sa‘dullah Ludhianvi, the Promised Messiahas wrote: “By God, this very moment on 29 September 1894, I have received a revelation concerning you:َ َْ ُ َ َ َ َ ‫ا ِّن شانِئک ھ َو الابْتر‬ ‘Surely it is thy enemy who is without issue.’” (Anwar-ul-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 9, p. 86) At the time of this revelation, a son of

Maulvi Sa‘dullah Ludhianvi was alive while he himself [Maulvi Sa‘dullah] was still in his youth. However, after this revelation, neither of them had offspring.

There is not a single person today who can claim that this prophecy was not fulfilled on account of belonging to the lineage of Maulvi Sa‘dullah Ludhianvi.

Example 6 The Promised Messiahas carried out a mubahilla [prayer duel] with one abusive opponent, Abdul Haq Ghaznavi.

Afterwards, addressing him on 16 January 1897, subsequent to mentioning the shower of blessings as an outcome of the mubahilla, the Promised Messiahas said: “He has continuously sent down revelations regarding a fourth son and we now assure Abdul Haq that he will not die until the fulfilment of this revelation comes to his knowledge. Thus, if he has it within him, he should avert this prophecy through prayer.” (Anjam-e-Atham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 11, p. 342) Exactly two and a half years after this prophecy, Allah granted him a son on 14 June 1899, who was named Mubarak Ahmad.

It is worth considering whether God’s revelation was fulfilled or otherwise. Who can claim that a son would be born in his home; that he would be born in the life of a certain person and that the opponent would remain alive till his birth? On the contrary, nobody can even claim themselves that they will stay alive!

Example 7 Allah the Almighty sent down a revelation to the Promised Messiahas in which He said: “Your progeny will not be cut off and will flourish till the end of days. God will maintain your name with honour till the day when the world comes to an end and will convey your message to the ends of the earth. I shall exalt you and shall call you to Myself but your name will never be erased from the face of the earth. It will so happen that all those who seek to humiliate you, and are determined to cause you to fail and wish to ruin you will themselves be frustrated and will die in failure and frustration. But God will grant you complete success.” (Tadhkirah [UK, 2009] pp. 180-181) Nobody can claim that children will be born in their home and remain alive; that their progeny will be unending and that their message will reach the corners of the earth.

Bearing God as our Witness, we should ask ourselves, has God not conveyed Hazrat Ahmad’sas message to the corners of the earth through newspapers, magazines, radio stations, television channels, MTA, social media and the internet? Major sects of major religions, prominent scholars, religious leaders and governments have attempted to halt and supress the propagation of his message, but has God endowed them success or frustrated them? Have they succeeded in preventing his message from reaching the corners of the Earth? We leave this for you to answer.

(Research by a panel of scholars at the Research Cell, Rabwah. Translated by Fateh Alam, UK)

A Connection with Brighton After Many Decades

Ahsan Ahmedi Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK

he Ahmadiyya Muslim Association T Sussex rekindled the light they lit in Brighton after many years by holding a

Pathway to Peace Interfaith Event at the Jubilee library in Brighton, a stone’s throw away from where Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra visited and offered prayers at the Royal Pavilion in 1924.

The event was held on Saturday, 2 February 2019.

Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib, Imam of the London Mosque in Putney, London’s first mosque, said “Islam has very close links with Christianity” and outlined that “the great praise and great qualities of Jesusas and his mother Maryas are mentioned in the many verses of the Holy Quran. Chapter 19 in fact is named after Maryas and makes mention of the immaculate birth of Jesusas and his great qualities as a prophet of high repute who had to endure great hardship and persecution.”

He also pointed out that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, compared himself to Jesusas and claimed to be “the Messiah and Mahdi awaited by all faiths”.

He said “For true peace to prevail in our society, there must be no animosity between religions and people. Islam is the only religion which requires its adherents to accept all the prophets sent to all the faiths prior to Muhammadsa.”

He further added, “Muhammadsa was confronted by many opponents and underwent great persecution, but he always opened the door of peace and forgiveness despite having to fight battles when the opponents raised armies against him.”

Following a very interesting question and answer session, Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib answered questions, and in his concluding remarks as chair, Ahsan Ahmedi, Regional President of the Jamaat in Sussex thanked the guests who attended, which included representation from Sussex Police.

The meeting ended with silent prayer and refreshments for guests.

8

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

Lajna Imaillah Republic of Korea Ijtema

HF Nigeria Commissions Three New Projects Abbas Iromini General Secretary, AMJ Nigeria

Dr Ayesha Iffat Saeed Sadr Lajna Imaillah Republic of Korea

ARepublic of Korea in 2012, the Lajna

fter the establishment of Lajna Imaillah

here were able to hold their national Ijtema and Meena Bazaar dated 3-4 February 2019 at Daegu Mission House.

The theme of the Ijtema was selected on the basis of a message sent by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa to South Korean Jamaat members in a letter to National Sadr Republic of Korea. Huzooraa stated: “Listen carefully to my Friday sermons and try to understand them and obey my words of instruction and guidance … You should urge members and their families to watch MTA often as it is an ideal means for acquiring knowledge of the beauties of Islam and the truth of Ahmadiyyat, and provides unity of thought and direction within our worldwide Jamaat.”

Hence, amila members suggested and sought the approval of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa on the topic of The Importance of MTA in the Life of an Ahmadi Muslim.

Prominent features of the first day of Ijtema included meet and greet for most of the Lajna members for the very first time, religious competitions and the presence of Japanese professor, Noriko Sato, especially invited by sadr Lajna and national president at their visit to her university at Busan.

At the end of first day, before the professor left, Sadr Lajna presented a gift on behalf of South Korea Jamaat. She was overwhelmed to receive it.

Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa Salaam and prayers for the Ijtema and Meena Bazaar were conveyed to members.

An MTA documentary was also played for participants on the 25 years of MTA International. This was shown in the first session and left a remarkable impact not only on Lajna members but also on guests as well.

The main highlights of the last day were Sadr Sahiba’s speech on the importance of listening to Huzoor’saa Friday Sermons, prize distribution and question and answer session with the national president and missionary, which was followed by silent prayer.

Hopefully this event will be a source of strengthening the bond between Lajna members.

National Sadr Sahib Dr Tariq Shamim Khwaja Sahib and missionary Dilmeer Ahmed Sahib provided us great support and assistance in making this event successful.

May Allah bless them.

There were certainly shortcomings and a lot of room for improvement, but we initiated these events from scratch, so even the couple of steps we took is an achievement.

We pray and hope that this event was not only a source of spiritual knowledge but also enjoyed by all those who attended it. May Allah give us strength to make the Lajna Imaillah organisation more stable and sustainable by following the path of virtue.

“And humanity shall continue to benefit from the numerous humanitarian projects sponsored by the Humanity First.”

The above sums up the message delivered

by Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria, Dr Mashuud Fashola, at the commissioning of three humanitarian projects sponsored by HF Canada for HF Nigeria.

It was yet another success story for Humanity First worldwide in general and Humanity First Nigeria in particular when three humanitarian projects were commissioned within two days at remote locations of Oyo State, south west of Nigeria.

The two projects comprised of the Humanity First Clinic situated at Okooko and Humanity First Nursery and Primary School at Igbo Oruwo and were commissioned on Saturday, 26 January.

IAAAE had located solar power energy at Okooko years back. There has not been any government supplied power or energy in the village to this date.

The road to the village was dusty and untarred and spanned many kilometres from the main town.

It was a joyous day for the people of the village because the clinic was the first of its type. The clinic has a pharmacy, ward, delivery room, injection room, consulting room, toilet facilities among other facilities.

Commenting on the event, Alhaj Dapo Yusuf who is the Chairman of the Oyo State Supreme Council for Islamic affairs, thanked Humanity First for such a laudable project in a place where nobody ever thought such a project could ever exist because of its remoteness. He urged people of the village to make good use of the project and to see it as their own. He mentioned how he had always watched the head of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat (Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa) going all over the world commissioning projects and mosques on MTA and that the last thing he expected was that such a project would one day be opened in a village like Okooko.

Amir Sahib thanked the Almighty Allah for directing Humanity First to such a place where modern civilisation could not be seen. He described the intention

of HF as that of exhibiting the attribute of rahmaniyya (graciousness) of Allah.

Speaking during the commissioning, the chairman of HF Nigeria appreciated the donations made by HF Canada as they sponsored the projects. He called on the people of the village to support the staff of the clinic and to secure the facility from vandalism. He assured them that the fee for drugs and other services that would be charged would be minimal and affordable for the peasant farmers and their extended families as the intention was not to make profit but to serve humanity.

The chief imam of Ijio, a nearby town, who was invited to witness the event thanked Allah and said that the people of Okooko should now know that Allah had not forgotten them. He commended Humanity First and said that what had been done was the real Jihad of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa which would touch the lives of the people positively.

A volunteer medical doctor and former medical director for all the hospitals in Ogun State, Dr Akindele Nurudeen volunteered to be the pioneer medical doctor of the clinic for the first few weeks before staff would be employed.

About 80 people witnessed the commissioning of the clinic.

Shortly after commissioning the clinic, Amir Sahib and his entourage were taken through a thick forest and dusty narrow path which led to yet another very remote village called Igbo Oruwo to commission yet another HF Canada-sponsored educational facility – a block of two classrooms.

The pupils who numbered about 43 sang choral poems thanking the Almighty Allah and Humanity First for the project.

Humanity First donated free uniforms and exercise books. The king of the village appreciated the gesture of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and wanted more such projects to free the locals from the shackles of deprivation.

It was on Sunday, 27 January that Humanity First commissioned yet another humanitarian project at a village called Iye Osa at Iddo Local Government Council of Oyo State. It was about a five-hour drive from the previous day’s location.

The local government chairman was represented by the Education Secretary Mr Misbahudeen who met Amir Sahib as the programme ended.

The four plots of land on which the school is built was donated by one Alhaj Rasheed Oladepo.

Over fifty people attended the Iye Osa gathering.

9

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon 25 January 2019 Delivered from Baitul Futuh Mosque

Men of Excellence After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

T

he first of the Badri Companions [Companions of the Holy Prophetsa who participated in the Battle of Badr] that I will mention today is Hazrat Tufailra bin Harith.

Hazrat Tufailra bin Harith belonged to the Quraish. His mother’s name was Sukhailah bint Khuza’i. After the migration to Medina, the Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Tufailra bin Harith and Hazrat Mundhirra bin Muhammad. According to other narrations, this bond was established with Hazrat Sufyanra bin Nasar. Hazrat Tufailra bin Harith participated in the Battle of Badr along with his brothers Hazrat Ubaidah and Hussain. Likewise, he had the opportunity to participate in all the battles alongside the Holy Prophetsa including the battles of Uhud and Khandaq [The Ditch]. He passed away in the 32nd year of Hijra at the age of 70. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 3, p. 74, Tufail bin Al-Harithra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 38, Al-Tufail bin Al-Harithra, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The next companion is Hazrat Sulaimra bin Amr Ansari. His mother’s name was Umme Sulaimra bint Amr. He belonged to the Banu Salama clan of the Khazraj.

According to other narrations, his name is also reported as Sulaiman bin Amr. He performed the Bai‘at along with 70 people at Aqabah. He participated in the battles of Badr and Uhud and was martyred during the Battle of Uhud, while his servant Antarah was also with him. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 545, Sulaim bin Amrra, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 435, Sulaim bin Amrra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The next companion whom I will mention is Hazrat Sulaimra bin Harith Ansari. He belonged to the Banu Dinaar clan of the Khazraj tribe. It is also said about him that he was a slave of the Banu Dinaar clan. It is reported that he was the brother of Hazrat Dahhaak bin Harith. In any case, these two accounts are stated according to the available information. He participated in the Battle of Badr and was martyred during the Battle of Uhud. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 543, Sulaim bin Al-Harithra, Darul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Then, there is Hazrat Sulaimra bin Milhan Ansari. His mother was Mulaikah bint Malik. He was the maternal uncle of

Hazrat Anasra bin Malik and the brother of Hazrat Umme Haramra and Hazrat Umme Sulaimra. Hazrat Umme Haram was the wife of Hazrat Abadahra bin Samit, while Hazrat Umme Sulaimra was the wife of Hazrat Abu Talha Ansarira . Her son Hazrat Anasra bin Malik used to serve the Holy Prophetsa. He [i.e. Hazrat Sulaimra bin Milhan Ansari] participated in the battles of Badr and Uhud along with his brother Hazrat Haramra bin Malhaan. Both of them were martyred during the incident of Bi’re-Ma‘unah. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 546, Sulaim bin Milhanra, Dar-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-

Bi’r-e-Ma‘unah, which was a mountain pass near the Bani Sulaim, situated in between the land belonging to Banu Aamir and Banu Sulaim, they camped there and tied their camels. Firstly, he sent Hazrat Haramra bin Milhan to Aamir bin Tufail after conveying to him the message of the Holy Prophetsa.

He did not even read the message of the Holy Prophetsa and attacked and martyred Hazrat Haramra bin Milhan. Following this, he called for Bani Aamir to fight the Muslims. However, they refused to listen to him. Subsequently, he called for the tribes of Sulaim bin Usayya, Zakwan and Ri’l. These people set off with him and appointed him

Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 391, Sulaim bin Milhanra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) In the 36th month after the migration of the Messengersa of Allah, during the month of Safar, Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr as-Saa‘idi went was sent on a military campaign. Aamir bin Ja‘far came to the Messenger of Allahsa and wanted to give a gift to him but he refused to take it.

The Holy Prophetsa invited him to accept Islam. However, he neither accepted Islam, nor distanced himself from it. Aamir requested, “If you would send some of your companions with me to go to my people, it is hoped that they would accept your call to faith.” The Holy Prophetsa said, “I fear that the people of Najad may harm them.” Upon this, he replied, “If anyone comes to confront them, I would provide them security.” The Holy Prophetsa sent seventy young men along with him, who were referred to as qaris. Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr as-Saa’idi was appointed as their leader. This incident has been narrated before as well.

When these people reached a place called

as their leader. When Hazrat Haram was delayed, the Muslims went after him. After crossing a short distance, they encountered the group that was approaching to attack them. They encircled the Muslims, who were outnumbered by them. They fought and the companions of the Holy Prophetsa were martyred. When Hazrat Sulaimra bin Milhan and Hakam bin Kaisan from among the Muslims were encircled, they said “O Allah! We do not find anyone beside You, who could convey our Salam [Islamic greeting of peace] to Your Prophetsa.

Therefore, convey our Salam to him.” When Gabriel informed the Holy Prophetsa of this, he said َ َّ ُ ْ َ َ َ ‫السلام‬ ‫وعليهِم‬ That is, “And may peace be on them.”

Mundhir bin Amr said to them, “If you wish, we will make you a peace offering.”

However, they refused. They moved to the location where Hazrat Haram was martyred and fought them until they were martyred. The Holy Prophetsa said that they stepped forward in order to die. That is, they stepped forward knowing that death

was approaching. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 2, pp. 39-40, Sirya Al-Mundhir bin Amrra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) They fought the enemy with great courage despite not having the adequate equipment for battle and despite the fact they had not set out to engage in battle.

Then, there is mention of Hazrat Sulaimra bin Qais Ansari [Muslim native of Medina]. The name of his mother was Umme Sulaim bint Khalid. He was the brother of Hazrat Kholara bint Qais, the wife of Hazrat Hamzara. He participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all battles, including the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He passed away during the caliphate of Hazrat Uthman. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, pp. 545-546, Sulaim bin Qaisra, Darul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 372, Sulaim bin Qaisrra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Then, there was a companion named Hazrat Thabitra bin Tha‘laba. His name was Hazrat Thabit bin Tha‘laba and the name of this mother was Umme Unais bint Sa‘d, who belonged to the tribe of Banu Uzra.

His father, Tha‘laba bin Zaid, was also called Al-Jiz’. He was given this name due to his courage, strength, determination and passion. In relation to this very aspect, Hazrat Thabitra was also called Al-Jaz’.

His children were Abdullah and Harith born to Umamah bint Uthman. Hazrat Thabitra participated in the second pledge of initiation at Aqabah along with seventy Ansar companions. He also participated in the battles of Badr, Uhud, Khandaq, Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, Khaibar, conquest of Mecca and the Battle of Ta’if. He was martyred during the Battle of Ta’if. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, pp. 428-429, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Then, there is a companion [by the name] Hazrat Simakra bin Sa‘d. Sa‘d bin Tha‘labah was his father, who was the brother of Hazrat Bashirra bin Sa‘d, the father of Nu‘man bin Bashir. He participated in the Battle of Badr along with his brother, Hazrat Bashir. He also participated in the Battle of Uhud. He belonged to the tribe of Khazraj. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 552, Simak bin Sa’dra, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Then, there is a companion by the name Jabirra bin Abdillah bin Ri‘ab. Hazrat Jabir is counted among the first six Ansar to

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

10

have accepted Islam in Mecca. Hazrat Jabir participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all battles, including the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. (Al-Tabaqaat-ulKubra, Vol. 3, p. 431, Jabir bin Abdillahra Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Prior to the first pledge of initiation at Aqabah, a group of six individuals from among the Ansar met the Holy Prophetsa.

The six companions were as follows, As‘ad bin Zuraarah, Auf bin Harith, Rafi‘ bin Malik bin Ajlaan, Qutba bin Aamir bin Hadida, Uqba bin Aamir bin Nabi and Jabir bin Abdillah bin Ri‘ab. All of them entered the fold of Islam. When they returned to Medina, they mentioned the Holy Prophetsa to the people of Medina (Usdul Ghaba, Vol.1, p. 492, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) the details of which have already been presented whilst mentioning Uqba bin Aamir Nabi. I will briefly mention this here.

When these people departed from the Holy Prophetsa, they said while they were leaving that the civil wars had made them very weak. “There is a lot of discord between us. We will go to Yathrib [earlier name for Medina] and preach the message of Islam to our brothers. It is very possible that Allah the Exalted may unite us once again though your message and through our preaching. Furthermore, once we unite, we will be prepared to support you in every manner.” Hence, they left and Islam started to spread through them in Yathrib.

In relation to the apparent circumstances and provisions of the people of Yathrib, the Holy Prophetsa spent this year in Mecca in fear and hope, anticipating to see the result of these six individuals who testified to the truthfulness of the Holy Prophetsa and pledged initiation to him; whether they would be successful in Yathrib and if there is any hope or not. The reason for this was that in other places, the Holy Prophetsa was not only rejected, but he was fiercely opposed. The chiefs of Mecca and Ta’if had ferociously rejected the mission of the Holy Prophetsa and other tribes under their influence were also rejecting this, one after the other. Hence, as a result of their pledge in initiation, a ray of hope was formed in Medina.

However, there was no reassurance for this as well. Who was able to say that these six believers, who formed this ray of hope, would be able to bear difficulties and hardships in case the enemy stood up against them as well? Nevertheless, they went [to Medina] and preached. However, in the meantime, the opposition and enmity from the people of Mecca was also increasing by the day and they were certain that this was time to destroy Islam. The reason for this was that if Islam started to move and spread outside of Mecca, it would become difficult to destroy it. Therefore, the people of Mecca began to oppose them to the greatest extent possible. However, despite this, the Holy Prophetsa and his sincere companions, who had pledged initiation to him and had become Muslims, remained firm on their stance like solid rocks. Nothing could move them from Islam, its teachings or from the unity of God. In any case, this was an extremely critical time for Islam. There was hope and fear to see the result of these individuals going to Medina.

The following year, another delegation from Medina came on the occasion of Hajj [Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca]. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa very passionately came out of his home, went to Aqba, in the direction of Mina and looked here and there. Suddenly, his eyes fell on a small delegation from Yathrib, who immediately recognised him when they saw him. They came forward and met the Holy Prophetsa with great love and devotion. Six of them were the same individuals, who had previously pledged initiation, rather, five of them were the same individuals, who had previously pledged initiation and returned [to Medina]. Seven individuals were new, who belonged to the tribes of Aus and Khazraj.

On this occasion, the Holy Prophetsa took them into a valley away from people and this delegation of twelve individuals informed the Holy Prophetsa of the circumstances of Yathrib. All of them formally pledged initiation at the hand of the Holy Prophetsa. This very pledge was the foundation stone for the establishment of Islam in Yathrib. The words on which the Holy Prophet took their pledges were as follows: “We will believe God to be One; we will not associate partners with Him; we will not steal; we will not commit adultery or fornication; we will refrain from murder; we will not accuse others of anything, and we will obey you in every virtuous deed.”

After the Bai‘at, the Holy Prophetsa said: “If you remain true to this pledge in honesty and steadfastness then you shall receive paradise. However, if you show weakness, then your matter is with Allah the Exalted, for He shall do what He wills.”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 222-224) In any case, these people then not only fulfilled their oath, but they did so in the most excellent manner. From the incidents after this, we are aware of how Islam managed to spread in Medina.

Another companion who will be mentioned today is Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr bin Khunais. He also had the title ْ ُ َ ُ of ‫ ُم ْع ِنق ل َِي ُم ْوت‬or ‫ ُم ْع ِنق ل ِل َم ْو ِت‬meaning, “The one who embraces death.” His name was Mundhir, and his father’s name was Amr. He was from the Banu Sa‘dah family that belonged to the Khazraj, a tribe of the Ansar. He participated in the Bai‘at of Aqaba. The Holy Prophetsa had appointed Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr and Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadah as leaders of the Banu Sa‘dah tribe. Hazrat Mundhirra was literate even during the days of ignorance [pre-Islamic Arabia]. After migration to Medina, the Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Mundhir and Hazrat Tulayb bin Umair. Hazrat Mundhir participated in both the battles of Badr and Uhud. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 5, p. 258, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) In his book The Life & Character of the Seal of the Prophetssa, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra writes about Hazrat Mundhirra that he was from the Banu Saa‘ida dynasty of the Khazraj tribe, and was a man of ascetic disposition. He was martyred at Bi’r-e-Ma‘unah. (Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p.

232)

Bi’r-e-Ma‘unah was covered at length during the mention of other companions before this. I will now narrate as a summary some parts that are relevant to Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr from The Life & Character of the Seal of the Prophetssa.

“These tribes of Sulaim and Ghatfan inhabited the central region of Arabia in the Sath-e-Murtafa‘ Najd and had allied with the Quraish of Mecca against the Muslims.”

They had an alliance with the Quraish of Mecca on how to destroy Islam. “Slowly but surely, the evil of these mischievous tribes was continuing to grow and the Sath-e-Murtafa‘ Najd was continuing to be poisoned with the venom of enmity against Islam. As such, in the days we are describing now, an individual named Abu Barra Aamiri, who was a chieftain of the tribe situated in central Arabia known as the Banu Aamir, presented himself before the Holy Prophetsa.” This has been narrated before.

“The Holy Prophetsa very gently and kindly conveyed the message of Islam to him and at the outset, he also listened to the address of the Holy Prophetsa with interest and attention, but did not accept Islam.

Albeit, he submitted to the Holy Prophetsa, ‘Send a few Companions along with me to Najd, who can travel there and preach the message of Islam to the people of Najd.’”

He further said: “I am confident that the people of Najd will not reject your message.”

The Holy Prophetsa said, “I do not trust the people of Najd.” Abu Barra responded, “Do not worry, I guarantee their security.”

Since Abu Barra was the chief of a tribe and was an influential man, the Holy Prophetsa took his word and dispatched a party of Companions towards Najd.”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “This is the narration as it is related by history. It is narrated in Bukhari that a few people from the tribes of Ri‘l and Dhakwan, etc.” which were branches of the renowned tribe known as the Banu Sulaim, “presented themselves before the Holy Prophetsa and claimed to accept Islam. Then they requested that a few men should be dispatched along with them to assist them against those people of their nation who were enemies of Islam.” There is no elaboration as to the nature of the assistance they requested – missionary or military. “Nonetheless, they came and requested for a few people to be sent with them. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa sent off this company.”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra then writes, “However, unfortunately with respect to the details of Bi’r-e-Ma‘unah, even the details as narrated in Bukhari have become mixed to a degree,” two narrations have been mixed up, “due to which all the relevant facts,” whether from historical accounts of Bukhari, “cannot be identified in full. In any case, however, what is ascertained for certain is that on this occasion, the people belonging to the tribes of Ri‘l and Dhakwan, etc. presented themselves before the Holy Prophetsa as well, and they requested for a few companions to be sent along with them.”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra then says there are two different narrations of the account. He says the way to settle the differences between them or to

understand the connection between them is: “One prospect for the reconciliation of both these narrations is that perhaps Abu Barra Aamiri, chieftain of the Aamir tribe, also came along with the people of Ri‘l and Dhakwan, and he spoke to the Holy Prophetsa on their behalf. As such, according to the historical account, the Holy Prophetsa said, “I do not trust the people of Najd,” to which he responded, “Do not worry, I give you the assurance that your companions shall not be harmed.” This indicates that the people of Ri‘l and Dhakwan had also come with Abu Barra and the Holy Prophetsa was concerned on their account.

In any case, the Holy Prophetsa dispatched a party of companions under the leadership of Mundhir bin Amr Ansarira in Safar 4 AH. These people were mostly from the Ansar and totalled seventy in number, and almost all of them were qaris, i.e., they were well-versed in the Holy Quran.

When these people reached a place known as Bi‘r-e-Ma‘unah, which was named as such due to a water well, an individual named Haram bin Milhanra, who was the maternal uncle of Anas bin Malikra, went forward with the message of Islam to Aamir bin Tufail, who was chief of the Aamir tribe and paternal nephew of Abu Barra Aamiri (who was mentioned earlier). The rest of the companions remained behind. When Haram bin Milhanra arrived to meet Aamir bin Tufail and his followers as an emissary of the Holy Prophetsa, at first, they warmly welcomed him in their hypocrisy; but after he had been fully seated and made to feel at ease, and began to preach the message of Islam, a few evil ones from among them made a signal to someone, who struck this innocent emissary with a spear from behind and put him to death there and then. At the time, the following words were ra on the tongue of Haram bin Milhan َ ْ ّ َ َ ُ ْ ُ ُ َ ْ َ ُ ّٰ ْ َ ‫الله اكبر فزت ور ِب الكعب ِة‬ i.e., “Allah is the Greatest. By the Lord of the Ka‘bah, I have attained my objective.”

Aamir bin Tufail did not suffice upon the murder of this emissary of the Holy Prophetsa alone. As a matter of fact, after this he incited the people of his tribe, the Banu Aamir, to attack the remaining party of Muslims as well, but they refused and said that they would not attack the Muslims due to the guarantee of Abu Barra. (His tribe replied that since he had given his word for protection, they would not attack.)

Upon this, Aamir collected the Banu Ri‘l, Dhakwan and ‘Usayyah, etc. from the tribe of Sulaim (i.e., the same tribes who had come to the Holy Prophetsa as a delegation according to the narration of Bukhari) and attacked this small and helpless community of Muslims. When the Muslims saw these bloodthirsty beasts racing towards them, they said, “We have no quarrel with you.

We have only come with an assignment from the Holy Prophetsa; we have not come to fight,” but they did not listen to a word and murdered them all. (Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 517-519) According to history, Hazrat Gabrielas reported to the Holy Prophetsa about the martyrs of the Bi’r-e-Ma‘una. The Prophetsa َ ْ َ said about Hazrat Mundhir bin Amr: ‫اع َنق‬ َ ُْ َ ‫ ل ِيموت‬meaning, “Hazrat Mundhir bin Amr embraced martyrdom while fighting. He

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM

fought in the same place where his friends fought, and he knew full well that the outcome was going to be the same.” It is for this reason he was famous by the title ْ ُ َ ُ of ‫ ُم ْع ِنق ل َِي ُم ْوت‬or ‫“ ُم ْع ِنق ل ِل َم ْو ِت‬The one who embraced death.” (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 5, p.

258, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 2, p.

40, Sulaim bin Amrra, Dar-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The enemies said to Hazrat Mundhirra bin Amr: “If you wish, we will let you free in peace.” However, Hazrat Mundhirra refused their protection. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 5, pp. 258-259, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1996) Hazrat Sahl narrates, “When Hazrat Abu Usayd’s son Hazrat Mundhir bin Abi Usayd was born, they took him to the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa placed this child on his lap. Hazrat Abu Usayd was sitting there at the time. Then the Holy Prophetsa became engaged in some other work. Hence some people took Mundhir away upon the signal of Hazrat Abu Usayd.

When the Holy Prophetsa had finished his work, he enquired, ‘Where is the child?’

Hazrat Abu Usayd responded, ‘O Messenger of Allahsa! We have sent him home.’ The Holy Prophetsa asked, ‘What name have you chosen for him?’ Abu Usayd informed him of the name. The Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘No! His name is Mundhir.’ That day, the Holy Prophetsa named the child ‘Mundhir.’”

This person is the not the same Mundhir that was mentioned earlier. Commentators have explained the reason for the Holy Prophetsa naming this child ‘Mundhir.’ They state that the name of Hazrat Abu Usayd’s paternal uncle was Mundhir bin Amr, the companion whose martyrdom took place in Bi’r-e-Ma‘unah. He was the paternal uncle of Abu Usayd, who was martyred in Bi‘r-e-Ma‘unah. The Holy Prophet selected this name for the good omen that this child would turn out to be a proper heir [of his uncle]. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Adab, Bab Tahwilul Ismi ilaa Ism Ahsan Minhu, Hadith 6191) (Fath-ul-Bari Sharh Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, vol. 7, p.452, Dar-ul-Rayyan li al-Turath, Cairo, 1986) This reason might be valid, but the Holy Prophetsa would most certainly name the relatives of his beloved ones in their remembrance.

Another companion was Hazrat Ma‘bidra bin Ibad. His title was Abu Humaizah. His father’s name was Abaad bin Qusher. Hazrat Ma‘bidra bin Abad’s name has been recorded as Ma‘bad bin Ubadah and Ma‘bad bin Amarah as well. He belonged to the Banu Salam bin Ghanam bin Auf branch of the Khazraj tribe. His title is Abu Humaisah.

It is also mentioned that his title was Abu Humaisa and Abu Usaimah has also been mentioned. He participated in the battles of Badr and Uhud. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 5, pp. 211-212, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 408, 411, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Then there is a companion whose name was Hazrat Abi bin Abi Zaghba Ansarira, son of Sinan bin Subay and he passed away during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umarra. His father Abi Zaghba’s full name was Sinan bin Subay bin Tha‘labah. He was from Juhainah tribe of the Ansar. He participated

alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all the battles including the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol.4, p. 11, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 377, Darul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The Holy Prophetsa had appointed him along with Hazrat Babas bin Amr to acquire intelligence about Abu Sufyaan’s caravan at the time of the Battle Badr. He traveled to obtain this information and continued until he reached the seashore.

Hazrat Basbasra bin Amr and Hazrat Adiyy bin Abi Raghba set their camels at a hilltop near Badr which was situated next to a mountainous pass. They then took out their water-bags and went to fetch water from the waterhole. One man named Majdi bin Amr Juhani was stood near the passage. The two companions overheard two women saying that the caravan would arrive in a day or two and so one woman said to the other that she would work for the caravan in order to pay off her debt.

Despite the fact that it was two women merely talking amongst themselves, there was still something to learn from it. Majdi told her that what she said was correct and then left. Hazrat Adiyy and Hazrat Basbas overheard this as two women were speaking to one another and so they went to the Holy Prophetsa informing him as to how they heard from two women that a caravan would be coming. (Kitabul Maghazi, Vol. 1, p. 40, Bab Badr–al-Qital, Alam-ul-Kutub, Beirut, 1984) This was news of a caravan of the disbelievers of Mecca, and this is one of the ways in which these people would gather information. Even though it only seemed as if two women were in the middle of conversation, there was a message of great importance entailed in it and that is how they gained news of the arrival of the caravan. Hazrat Adiyy bin Abi Raghba passed away during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umarra. (Al-Isabatu Fi Tamyiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 4, pp. 391-392, Dar-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) The next companion is Hazrat Rabi‘ra bin Iyaas. He belonged to the Banu Lawzaan branch of the Khazraj tribe of the Ansar. He participated in the Battle of Badr alongside his brothers Warqa bin Iyaas and Amr bin Iyaas. He also participated in the Battle of Uhud. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, pp. 416-417, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Kitabul Maghazi, Vol. 1, p.

167, Bab Tasmiyah man Shahida Badran min Quraish Wal Ansar, Alam-ul-Kutub, Beirut, 1984) Another companion was Hazrat Umairra bin Aamir Ansari. His title was Abu Daud and his father’s name was Aamir bin Malik.

Hazrat Umair’s father was Aamir bin Malik and his mother’s name was Na‘ila bint Abi Aasim. Hazrat Umairra belonged to the Khazraj tribe of the Ansar. Hazrat Umairra was better known by his title of Abu Daud. He participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in the battles of Badr and Uhud.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 393, Darul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (AlIsabatu Fi Tamyiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 4, p. 598, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hazrat Umme Ammarara relates that Abu Daud Ma‘zani i.e. Hazrat Umair and Hazrat Sulait bin Amr had both departed to

11

participate in the Bai‘at at Aqabah when they heard news that the Bai‘at had already taken place. After the Bai‘at had taken place, they pledged their allegiance through Asad bin Zuraarah who was appointed as one of the leaders on the night of the Bai’at-e-Aqabah.

(Al-Isabatu Fi Tamyiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 7, p.

99, Abu Daud Al-Ansari Al-Ma’zani, Darul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) So it was through him that they took the Bai‘at. According to one narration Hazrat Umair bin Aamir was the one who killed Abul Bakhtari during the Vattle of Badr.

(Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 6, p. 92, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Then there is a companion named Hazrat Sa‘dra, the freed slave of Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta. He belonged to Banu Kalb tribe. Sa‘d bin Khauli was his name and he belonged to the Banu Kalb tribe.

However according to Abu Ma‘shar he belonged to the Banu Mazhij tribe. Others are of the opinion that he was from Persia.

Hazrat Sa‘dra bin Khauli came to Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta’ whilst he was still a slave. Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta treated him with utmost kindness and compassion.

Hazrat Sa’d accompanied Hazrat Hatibra bin Abi Balta in the battles of Badr and Uhud and was martyred in the Battle of Uhud.

Hazrat Umarra allocated an allowance for Hazrat Abdullah bin Sa‘d, the son of Hazrat Sa‘d along with the Ansar. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 2, p. 428, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 85, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Sair al-Sahaba, Vol. 4, p. 318, Hazrat Sa’d bin Khauli, Dar-ul-Isha’at, Karachi, 2004) There is the companion Hazrat Abu Sinaan bin Mihsan. His father was Mihsan bin Hurthaan and his title was Abu Sinaan.

His actual name was Wahab bin Abdullah and his title was Abu Sinaan. His name has also been recorded as Abdullah bin Wahab, but according to the most reliable historical sources, his name was Wahab bin Mihsan.

Hazrat Abu Sinaan bin Mihsan was the brother of Hazrat Ukasha bin Mihsan.

(Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 6, p. 153, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) He was the elder brother of Hazrat Ukasha and in this regard, there is a narration stating he was approximately two years older than Hazrat Ukasha. There are different views on this, some say he was ten years older, whilst others have stated twenty years. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 6, p. 153, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Raud-ul-Anf, Vol. 4, p. 62, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) (Al-Tabaqaatul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 69, Dar-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) His son was called Sinaan bin Abi Sinaan. Hazrat Abu Sinaan took part in the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq.

According to some sources Hazrat Abu Sinaan Mihsan Asadi was the first to take the oath of allegiance during the Bai‘at Ridhwan, however this is incorrect as he passed away during the siege of Banu Quraizah in 5 AH at the age of 40. Hence it was his son Sinaan bin Abi Sinaan who took part in the Bai’at Ridhwan. Hazrat Abu Sinaan bin Mihsan passed away when the Holy Prophetsa had besieged the Banu Quraizah. The Holy Prophetsa buried him in the graveyard of Quraizah. (Al-Tabaqaat-

ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 69, Dar-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Next there is the companion Hazrat Qais bin Al-Sakan. His title was Abu Zaid his father’s name was Sakan bin Zawwarah.

Hazrat Qais bin Al-Sakan belonged to the Banu Adiyy branch of the Khazraj tribe of the Ansar. Hazrat Qais was better known by his title of Abu Zaid. He participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all the battles, including the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. He is counted among those Companions who, during the lifetime of the Holy Prophetsa, collected the parchments on which the Holy Quran was written.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 389, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 4, p. 406, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (Al-Isabatu Fi Tamyiz Al-Sahaba, Vol. 5, p. 362, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik states that there were four Ansari Companions who gathered all the parchments of the Holy Quran in the time of Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Zaidra bin Thabit, Hazrat Muazra bin Jabal, Ubayra bin Ka’b and Abu Zaidra i.e. Qais bin Sakan. With regard to Abu Zaidra, Hazrat Anasra relates, “He was my uncle.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib Al-Ansar, Bab Manaqib Zaid bin Thabitra, Hadith 3810) In 8 AH the Holy Prophetsa sent Abu Zaid Ansari and Hazrat Amr bin Aas AlSahmi with a letter to the two sons of Julandi – Ubaid and Jaifar – in which he invited them towards Islam. Furthermore, the Holy Prophetsa mentioned to them that if they give true testimony and obeyed Allah and His Messengersa then Amr would be their Amir [leader] and Abu Zaid would be their Imam. That is to say that in the eyes of the Holy Prophetsa Abu Zaid had a stronger faith or was more well-versed in his understanding of the Holy Quran. The Holy Prophetsa stated that he would then be the one to lead the prayers, propagate the message of Islam to them and teach them the Holy Quran and the Sunnah [practice of the Holy Prophetsa]. The two of them travelled to Oman and met Ubaid and Ja‘far at the seashore. They handed them the letter of the Holy Prophetsa. Thereafter they accepted Islam and began preaching their new religion to the Arabs there, who also became Muslims. Islam spread here only through preaching the message. There was no war or fighting there, but the Arabs still accepted Islam. Amr and Abu Zaid remained in Oman up until the demise of the Holy Prophetsa. Some are of the opinion that Abu Zaid returned to Medina prior to the demise of the Holy Prophetsa. (Futuhul-Buldan, p. 53, “Umman”, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2000) Hazrat Qais was martyred on the Day of Jisr. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 389, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) This battle with the Iranians took place during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umarra on the bridge of the Euphrates river, and this is why the battle is known as the Day of Jisr.

(Mu’jam-ul-Buldan, Vol. 2, pp. 162-163, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Now I shall mention the companion named Abul Yasar Ka‘bra bin Amr. His title was Abul Yasar and he belonged to the Banu Salama tribe. His father was Amr bin Abaad and his mother was Naseeba bint

12 Azhar who was also of the Banu Salama tribe. Abul Yasar participated in the Bai‘at at Aqabah and also in the Battle of Badr. On the day of the Battle of Badr, he captured Hazrat Abbasra. He is the same companion who seized the flag of the disbelievers from the hands of Abu Aziz bin Umair during the Battle of Badr. He participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all the other battles.

After the demise of the Holy Prophetsa he took part in the Battle of Siffin alongside Hazrat Alira. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 6, pp. 326327, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) According to one narration, Hazrat Ubaidra bin Aus was the one who captured Hazrat Abbasra during the Battle of Badr.

(Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 3, p. 528-529, Dar-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) However, Hazrat ibn Abbas states that on the day of Badr, Abul Yasar was the one who seized Hazrat Abbasra. During the Battle of Badr, Abul Yasar was slim in stature and was 20 years of age, whereas Hazrat Abbasra was of heavy build. The Holy Prophetsa enquired of Abul Yasar, “How did you manage to take down and capture Abbas? You are slim in stature whilst Abbas is tall and strongly built.” Abul Yasar replied, “O Messenger of Allah, one other person helped me, whom I had never seen before, nor did I ever see him again.”

He then described the man’s appearance َ َ َ َ ْ َ​َ to َwhich the Holy Prophetsa ‫لقد ا َعانك َعل ْي ِه‬ َ ٌ ‫ َملك ك ِريْ ٌم‬that is to say, “Indeed a noble angel assisted you.” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 4, p. 8, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Hazrat ibn Abbasra relates that on the day of the Battle of Badr, the Holy Prophetsa stated: “Whoever kills the enemy, they shall have such and such reward.”

Subsequently, the Muslims killed seventy of the mushrikeen [idolaters] and held another seventy of them as prisoners. Hazrat Abul Yasarra came before the Holy Prophetsa with two prisoners and said, “O Messengersa of Allah! You promised us that anyone who killed [an idolater] would be given a specific reward, and similarly, the one who imprisoned any of them would receive a specific reward. Thus, I have brought two prisoners.” (Al-Musannif li Abd al-Razzaq, Vol. 5, p. 239, Kitabul Jihad, Bab Dhikrul Khams…, Hadith 9483, Al-Maktabul Islami, 1983)

Friday 22 February 2019 | AL HAKAM According to another narration, Abul Bakhtari was killed during the Battle of Badr by Hazrat Abul Yasarra. (Usdul Ghaba, Vol. 6, p. 92, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Hazrat Salama bint Ma‘qal relates: “When I was in servitude to Hubaab bin Amr, I also bore his child during that period. Upon his demise, his wife told me, ‘In order to pay off Habbab bin Amr’s debts, you will now be sold off; your status is of a slave and thus you shall be sold off.’ I then came before the Holy Prophetsa and related the entire situation. The Holy Prophetsa enquired from the people as to who was going to inherit the wealth of Habbab bin Amr and he was informed that his brother, Abul Yasar, was going to inherit it. The Holy Prophetsa called Abul Yasarra and said, ‘She is a bondswoman and you must not sell her, in fact you should set her free. When you come to know that I have been given a slave, come to me and I will hand him over to you as substitute for this.’” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 8, p. 726, Hadith 27569, Musnad Salaama bint Ma’qal, Alamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) This is precisely what happened. The Holy Prophetsa gave another slave in her place and freed her.

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra relates the following incident in Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin [The Life and Character of the Seal of the Prophet]: “Ubadah bin Walidra narrates that on one occasion we met a companion of the Holy Prophetsa named Abul Yasarra. At the time, one of his slaves also accompanied him and we noticed that he was wearing a streaked Yemeni cloth. Similarly, his slave was also wearing a streaked Yemeni cloth.

I said, ‘O Uncle! Why did you not take his streaked cloth and give him your Yemeni cloth, or take his Yemeni cloth and give him your streaked one, so that both of you could wear a matching pair of clothes?’

Abul Yasarra stroked my head, supplicated in my favour and said, ‘O nephew! My eyes have seen, my ears have heard and my heart has given place to the statement of the Holy Prophetsa, ‘Feed your slaves what you eat and clothe them with what you wear yourselves.’ Hence, I prefer greatly to give my slave an equal share of the wealth of this world, as opposed to losing my spiritual reward on the day of resurrection.’” (Sirat

Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p. 383) These were the individuals for whom God Almighty expressed His pleasure.

They would adhere to the minutest detail of every instruction of the Holy Prophetsa and they would always remain anxious with the desire to attain the pleasure of God Almighty, in fact they would crave for it.

Hazrat Abul Yasarra relates: “A certain individual from the Banu Haram tribe owed me some money for I had lent him a loan, and so I went to see him in this regard. I offered my Salaam [greeting of peace] and enquired whether he was at home? I received a reply from inside that he was not in. His son, who was a prepubescent child at the time, came to me and I also asked him where his father was. He told me that upon hearing my voice, he hid behind his mother’s bedstead.

Therefore, I again called for him to come outside and told him that I knew where he was now (i.e. the person who had to repay the debt).”

Abul Yasarra further relates: “He came outside and I asked him why he was hiding from me. He replied, ‘By God, I shall tell you the truth and will not utter a lie. By God! I was afraid to inform you and then lie to you, and also to make a promise with you, then break it. I would have falsely said that on such and such day or time I will return your money, because I know that I could not return.’ He then said: ‘You are a companion of the Holy Prophetsa and by God, I am in dire need.’”

Abul Yasar says: “I asked him, ‘By God?’” In other words, he asked a question that does he truthfully swear an oath in God’s name? “He replied: ‘Yes, I swear by God’ I then asked him again do you swear an oath in God’s name that you are in need?

He said, ‘Yes, by God.’ I then asked him a third time, do you swear an oath in God’s name? Again, he replied, ‘Yes, by God.’” Hazrat Abul Yasar took the document on which the terms of the loan repayment where written and destroyed it. He then said that in the future, if he is able to repay the loan, he could do so, otherwise there was no burden on him. He further said: “My eyes have witnessed (i.e. placing two fingers over his eyes) my ears have heard, my heart has remembered (pointing towards his heart) that I could see the Holy

Prophetsa.” He said at the time he destroyed the parchment, he bore witness with his eyes, ears and heart that he could see the Holy Prophetsa saying that whosoever granted respite to the needy or eased the financial burden of the impoverished, then God Almighty would grant that individual His shade. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab- al-Zuhd wa al-Riqaq, Bab Hadith Jabir al-Taweel wa Qissatu Abi Yasar, Hadith 7512) “Therefore, I have removed your burden because I wish to seek the shade of God Almighty.” This is another example of the fear of Allah the Almighty. If he had any desire, it was only to attain the pleasure of God, as opposed to any worldly gain.

Hazrat Abul Yasar Ka‘b bin Amr took great precaution when narrating Ahadith.

On one occasion he narrated two Ahadith from Abadah bin Walid, but he did so in a manner that he placed his fingers on his eyes and ears and said that his eyes had witnessed this and his ears heard the Holy Prophetsa narrate this incident. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab- al-Zuhd wa al-Riqaq, Bab Hadith Jabir al-Taweel wa Qissatu Abi Yasar, Hadith 7512, 7513) One of the sons of Hazrat Abul Yasar was Umair, who was born from Umme Amr. She was the paternal aunt of Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah. His other son was Yazid bin Abi Yasar, who was born from Lababah bint Harith and a third son named Habib, whose mother’s name was Umme Walad.

He had one daughter named Aisha and her mother’s name was Umme Ruaa. Hazrat Abul Yasar was 20 years old when he took part in the Battle of Badr. He passed away in 55 Hijri, during the reign of Amir Muawiyyah. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 436, Dar-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) An extraordinary grandeur surrounded these people, who showed us the paths of loyalty to God Almighty and how one should fear God Almighty. They demonstrated complete obedience to the wishes of the Holy Prophetsa by accepting them whole heartedly. May Allah the Almighty elevate their ranks.

(Translated by The Review of Religions) (Original Urdu sermon published in Al Fazl International, 15-21 February 2019, pp. 5-9)