Al Hakam - 4 October 2019

From the Archives A reformer in Paris Hazrat Bhai Abdur Rahman Qadiani’sra account of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad’sra visit to France in 1924 Page 3

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Islamic Abode of Peace and Security in the Netherlands

Religion is a solution and not the cause of current problems

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V opens a new mosque, Baitul Afiyat in Almere

Huzoor’saa address to guests at Jalsa Holland 2019

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“Make God your friend” Hazrat Khalifatul Masih addresses ladies at Jalsa Holland 2019

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 4 October 2019 | Issue LXXXI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V in France Adnan Haider Al Hakam Correspondent

4 October, Trie-Chateau, France: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, inaugurated earlier this afternoon the Jalsa Salana of Jamaat Ahmadiyya France by hoisting the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat (Ahmadiyya flag) and

delivering his Friday Sermon immediately after this, just after 2pm local time. This is the 27th Jalsa of France Jamaat.

Huzooraa arrived in Trie-Chateau, France earlier this week (2 October) after a successful visit to the Netherlands. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa was welcomed by the Mayor of Trie-Chateau,

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

Showing mercy to mankind Hazrat Jair bin Abdullah, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Allah will not be merciful to those who are not merciful to mankind.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Tawheed)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words True gratitude is in adopting righteousness and purity

David Didier together with hundreds of Jamaat members – who were very excited to see Huzooraa.

Following his arrival at approximately 18:30 local time, Huzooraa inaugurated Baitul Ata Mosque and led the congregation in silent prayer.

Continued on page 2

Your true expression of gratitude is by adopting righteousness and purity. To merely respond by saying Alhamdolillah (all praise belongs to Allah) when asked if you are a Muslim does not constitute thankfulness and appreciation. If you pay true gratitude, i.e. if you tread the ways of purity and righteousness, I give you glad tidings that when you stand at the frontier, as it were, no one can gain dominance over you. I remember that a Hindu head clerk named Jagan Nath, who was a very prejudiced man, mentioned that he was serving as head clerk in Amritsar or some place else and there was an employee – apparently a Hindu – who secretly observed the Islamic Prayer. Jagan Nath says that he, along with the other Hindu employees, disliked him greatly and all of them decided to have the man dismissed. Jagan Nath says that he harboured the most ill-intent at heart and lodged complaints against the Hindu many times, saying that he had committed this mistake or broken that rule, but no attention would be given to these complaints. He goes on to say: “However, we had determined that we would have this man dismissed and in order to succeed in our objective, we had even gathered a list of complaints and from time to time I would present these complaints to the officer in-charge as well. If ever our officer became furious and finally summoned the man, as soon as he appeared before him, his rage would subside just as water puts out a fire. The officer would lightly rebuke him in a very soft manner, as if the employee had committed no mistake at all.”

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 75 - 76)

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa inaugurates Baitul Ata Mosque The three-day Jalsa Salana commenced today with Huzoor’saa Friday Sermon. Three addresses of Huzooraa are scheduled for the next two days of Jalsa Salana France. MTA international will be covering all live sermons of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during his stay in France.

While in the country, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa will also be inaugurating another new mosque in Strasbourg, northeast France.

Another element of Huzoor’saa stay in France will be an address at The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa is on a tour of Europe and will be visiting Germany after France. Al Hakam will be updating its readers with the engagements of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa during this tour, Insha-Allah.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in France on 2 October 2019

This Week in History 4 - 10 October 4 October 1903: Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin, may Allah be pleased with him, travelled to Kapurthalla to attend his patient Hazrat Muhammad Khan. Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra also delivered a sermon during his short stay there.

4 October 1947: From Lahore, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra penned a powerful article about the intense and terrifying state of affairs for the Jamaat. This inspirational piece was published in Al Fazl and raised the morale of members of Jamaat to bravely face the hardships inflicted after the Partition.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra had the great ability to safely transfer members of the Jamaat from dangerous areas to safe haven during the partition of the Indian subcontinent. However, back in Qadian, the neighboring villagers who were forced to seek refuge in Qadian, took a dangerous decision to travel to Lahore on foot. They decided this without consultation from the Jamaat. Without proper leadership and organisation, this caravan of around 40,000 people came under brutal attack as soon they stepped out of Qadian’s boundaries. This sudden ambush left causalities and devastation behind.

4 October 1947: The foundation of a government in liberated areas of Kashmir was established by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. The first president of this sovereign body was Khawaja Ghulam Nabi Gulgar Sahib (an Ahmadi by faith). The prime minister was Sardar Muhammad Ibrahim. This new development was announced across radio services.

5 October 1945: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra initiated a

unique scheme called Waqf-e-Tijarat, in which young members of the Jamaat were encouraged to devout their lives for the cause of Islam and enhance their abilities in business and commerce.

5 October 1947: Another caravan of refugees, who had gathered in Qadian, started their journey towards Lahore, on foot. The number of this convoy was reported as around ten thousand.

5 October 1952: Indonesia’s Armed Forces Day was organised. An Ahmadi missionary, Syed Shah Muhammad Sahib, was also invited to attend this national level event. Ahmadi Muslims had been part of the struggle for the independence of Indonesia and always remained loyal to the country.

6 October 1942: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra designed and announced an exclusive scheme for tabligh in India.

The first objective of the scheme was to send 1,000 issues of Al Fazl that contained the transcript of his weekly Friday Sermon, to all Muslim scholars. He also instructed for 1,000 copies of The Muslim Sunrise to be sent to them. Secondly, he urged for constant tabligh to influential personalities of the country.

7 October 1915: Hazrat Mir Qasim Alira started publication of his newspaper Al Faruq from Qadian.

This powerful medium of tabligh continued rendering its services untill the sad demise of Hazrat Mir Sahibra in April 1942.

7 October 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra graced the House of Lords during his tour of England and silently observed the proceedings of the house.

7 October 1927: A companion of the Promised

Messiahas, Hazrat Munshi Abdullah Sanaurira passed away. He will always be remembered for his presence when the sign of “red ink drops” was shown to the Promised Messiahas. As per his will, the sacred shirt that bore marks of the red ink was buried with him.

This was a precautionary measure to prevent any possible element of Shirk.

7 October 1954: Hazrat Chuadhry Sir Muhammad Zafarulla Khanra became a judge at the International Court of Justice at The Hague, a position he held until 1961.

8 October 1924: On this date, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra visited the House of Commons and also the following day to observe the proceedings there.

8 October 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled to visit the proposed land for the new Markaz, Rabwah.

After seeing it, he recalled a dream of his in which the land of the new Markaz was shown to him. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra mentioned the difference of greenery that he had seen in his dream but was missing in those early years of Rabwah. Today, the lush greenery of Rabwah manifests the truth of the dream and its fulfillment.

9 October 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira prepared and sent a delegation of Ahmadi Muslim scholars on a tour of Utar Pardesh, upon the invitation of Madrasa Ilahiat, Kanpur and Anjuman Hidayat-e-Muslimeen, Utawa. This tour was a great success, it visited the proposed areas and institutions and well attended lectures were delivered. The delegation returned Continued on page 13

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

From the Archives

A reformer in Paris A leaf from history (Hazrat Bhai Abdur Rahman Qadiani’sra account of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad’sra visit to France in 1924, taken from his diary, published as Safar-e-Europe)

French newspaper, Le Matin published the news of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra visit to France on 30 October 1924 during his tour of Europe. The Grand Mosque of Paris can be seen in the background.

Paris, 30 October 1924: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II[ra] went out for sightseeing in the city of Paris on the morning of 30 October 1924. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud[ra] left straight after breakfast and was accompanied

by Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahib and Khalifah Taqiuddin Sahib. Lunch was served upon Huzoor’s[ra] return to the hotel at around 1:30pm.

Huzoor[ra] had planned to offer Zuhr and Asr prayers at the Grand Mosque of Paris, so he started getting ready to head there straight after lunch. Accompanying Huzoor[ra], we all left the hotel at 3pm for the mosque.

It was raining heavily and in this rain of blessings, Huzoor[ra] entered the Grand Mosque of Paris. Local residents and the administration of the mosque saw the scene

of Huzoor[ra] entering the mosque with great excitement and welcomed him with great honour.

The architect showed Huzoor[ra] around the mosque and led him to the mihrab. As the building is still underway, they moved the rubble aside to clear the area for Salat.

They had laid mats and rugs to make the place for prayer as comfortable as possible.

Huzoor[ra], standing in the mihrab, asked Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib to call the Azan.

Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib recited the Azan with such a melody that everyone present was deeply moved. It was as if the universe had just come into being and every soul had bowed before its Creator.

This Azan was the first Azan ever to be called in this mosque and the Salat that followed – led by Hazrat Khaifatul Masih II[ra] – was the first ever salat to be offered in

this mosque. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] combined both Zuhr and Asr prayers. The following gentlemen were in congregation: 1. Abdur Rahman Qadiani (the author) 2. Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahib 3. Dr Hashmatullah Khan Sahib 4. Chaudhry Ali Muhammad Sahib 5. Abdur Rahim Dard Sahib 6. Malik Nawab Din Sahib 7. Khalid Sheldrake Sahib 8. Misbahuddin Sahib 9. Khalifa Taqiuddin Sahib 10. Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib 11. Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfani Sahib 12. Zulfiqar Ali Khan Sahib 13. Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmad Sahib

14. Sheikh Abdur Rahman Misri Sahib 15. Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sahib 16. Chaudhry Muhammad Sharif Sahib 17. Abdur Rahim Nayyar Sahib 18. Dr Malik Muhammad Ismail Sahib The administration invited Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] to tea and Huzoor accepted their offer. The tea was more of an infusion and not the traditional breakfast tea that is served with biscuits. The way they served us the tea expressed their deep love and sincerity.

During tea, Huzoor[ra] expressed his gratitude for the hosts and prayed that may Allah reward them for the good deed of building the mosque. Huzoor also thanked the French government on the good gesture Continued on page 5

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

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Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat: Flying in the winds of the land of windmills

Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa hoisting the flag of Islam Ahmadiyyat in the air of the Netherlands

Nunspeet, Holland, Friday, 27 September: Jalsa Salana, as an institution, is of immense importance owing to its foundations been laid by the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas.

The promise made by Allah the Almighty to him became manifest in so many ways, and the internationalisation of Jalsa Salana is one of them.

Jalsa Salana of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Holland commenced today – Friday, 27 September – with the Friday Sermon of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, and more formally so when Huzooraa hoisted the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat at around 2pm local time, right before the Friday Sermon.

This is the 39th Jalsa Salana of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya, the Netherlands which is being held in the scenic setting of Nunspeet.

The slogans of “Allahu-Akbar” travelled on airwaves across the sky that witnessed

the historic event of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa waving the flag of Islam Ahmadiyyat in the air of the Netherlands.

The event is scheduled to run until Sunday afternoon, concluding with an address by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa at 12:30 GMT. The ladies at the Jalsa Gah will have the blessed opportunity to listen to the blessed advice of their Imam directly from him in their own Lajna Jalsa Gah on Saturday at 10:30 GMT. Huzooraa will also address external guests attending the Jalsa, later in the day at 13:30 GMT. All these speeches can be viewed live on MTA International.

Apart from the Ahmadis living in Holland, hundreds of Ahmadis from the UK, France, Belgium and Germany have travelled to Nunspeet to absorb the blessings of Jalsa Salana and the august presence of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.

“Make God your friend” Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa addresses ladies at Jalsa Holland 2019

Nunspeet, the Netherlands, Saturday, 28 September: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, graced the ladies’ Jalsa Gah on the second day of Jalsa Salana Holland at 10:32 GMT. The Lajna session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran from chapter 25, verses 62 to 68. The Urdu translation of the verses were then read out. These verses speak of the creation of the heavens and the earth as a great blessing of God. Next, an Urdu poem written by the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was read out by Sobia Leghari Sahiba. The poem highlighted the esteemed personage of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then presented awards of academic excellence to 20 Lajna members. These included 9 from the Netherlands and 11 from other countries.

Thereafter, Huzooraa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa stated that of the new inventions of our age, a very good invention was the large television screen that was present in both the men’s and ladies’ side of Jalsa Salana.

In this manner, Lajna members can view the addresses of Huzooraa when he addresses the men. However, as Lajna members want to see Huzooraa and desire for him to come to the Lajna side, Huzooraa usually delivers an address at the ladies’ side as well.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that everything that he says at the men’s side is also for the ladies. In a similar vein, commandments of the Quran are for both men and women.

Huzooraa noted that since the time of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira, Khulafa have been addressing the ladies’ sides. Addressing women directly has many benefits. One benefit is that if men are not acting, at least women may listen to what is being said and act upon it. Thus, it cannot be said that addressing the ladies’ side is a waste of time.

Another benefit of delivering a direct address to the Lajna is that mothers have a huge role in bringing up the future generations. Thus, the impact of an address will have more of an effect if it is done live.

Huzooraa said that the reason he was giving such an introduction was so that ladies listen to what he says and also act upon it. It should not be that they listen, go home, and forget whatever was said.

The teachings of the Holy Quran, the Holy Prophetsa, the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa are never outdated, rather they manifest in new ways for every age and are a means to draw closer to Allah.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa reminded men that if they acted upon what he said, then most of the women would follow

them. In this manner, the reformation of the Jamaat can take place.

Huzooraa highlighted the fact that most of the Ahmadis living in the Netherlands, are those who migrated from Pakistan due to lack of religious freedom. The governments here granted asylum to Ahmadis and enabled them practice their religion freely.

Ahmadi Muslims should be grateful to the country and work hard to benefit it.

Huzooraa said that the greatest benefit we can give to the country is to present the beautiful teachings of Islam to them.

It is wrong to think that women are not given an opportunity for tabligh. Such (tabligh) programmes should be made.

Huzooraa said that as permission was granted to stay in this country due to religious reason, every man and woman should reform themselves spiritually.

Next, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that he would present teachings of the Promised Messiahas that he gave to his followers.

The reason we accepted the Promised Messiahas was because Allah told us to. He was to come as the second advent of Jesusas and would bring the second manifestation of the true Islam. Thus, accepting the Promised Messiahas and following his teachings is no ordinary matter, rather it is the true Islam.

We should all listen to what he said and act on it. If we do not, then our claim of Bai’at is void.

We should be greatly concerned over the fact that we came here due to religious reasons. Now, after migrating, if we forget our purpose and what our faith requires from us, then we are at a loss. We vowed, through Bai’at, to self-reform and draw closer to Allah, however if we now forget this and turn towards worldliness then we are at loss.

The Promised Messiahas constantly reminded his Jamaat to carry out istighfar and remember the afterlife. True life is life after death. When we realise this, we will not give all our attention towards the world.

Huzooraa said that women sometimes unduly demand better jewelry and clothes when they are not even able to afford them.

If one wants to compete, then it should be in the field of spirituality and reformation. If one sees that someone else’s child is good in religion, they should pray for their children to be good as well.

The Promised Messiahas once said that it is God who forgives man when man comes towards Him seeking forgiveness. Before every act, one should think whether God will be pleased or become angry. The best way to come closer to Allah is through Namaz. Thus, one should perform Namaz and pray. The Promised Messiahas said that one should perform Namaz in the best manner. When one stands, bows and prostrates, it should reflect the true spirit of

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM humility and worship.

Allah has said that women should also become true worshippers. As a result, they will bring up children who are religious and spiritual. In fact, Huzooraa said, women often have a spiritual effect upon their husbands as well. Girls observe their mothers. If mothers present a good example then we will have worshipping children.

Another element that the Promised Messiahas paid great attention towards is reading the Holy Quran and acting upon its teachings. If those women read the Holy Quran who do not pay due attention to purdah, then they will automatically fix their own purdah. The culture of wearing tight clothes in such a manner that one’s figure is exposed will finish after acting upon the teachings of the Holy Quran. Huzooraa said that those women who have come from Pakistan should at least uphold the standard of purdah they had in Pakistan.

The Promised Messiahas said that after doing Bai’at, one should live a new life.

“Make God your friend”, the Promised Messiahas said. After God becomes one’s friend, angels bring them into their laps like a mother does to a child. To make God a friend, it is essential to excel in following the teachings of the Holy Quran and Islam.

Every person should self-reflect and ask themselves whether their worship, remembrance of Allah and morals are up to the mark.

The Promised Messiahas said that he did not want mere verbal proclamations of faith, rather action is required. He said that if a member of his Jamaat does not act, then they are testifying that a messiah was never needed. Such a person should not count themselves as an Ahmadi Muslim. If one calls himself an Ahmadi, they should fulfil the aims an objectives of being an Ahmadi.

The Promised Messiahas said that the Jamaat who wants to be known as a divine Jamaat cannot prove themselves unless they show good actions. He said that a Jamaat cannot live without action.

How can one ever say that their children are ready to sacrifice anything for faith, if one does not act themselves?

Huzooraa said that the community of the Promised Messiahas will continue to prosper but those among us who do not act upon his teachings will be cut off like a dry branch.

Taqwa (righteousness) is vital and Taqwa is that one acts upon every good moral, not just a few. Belief and faith is born from righteousness and it is righteousness that enables faith to flourish. If one is not righteous, they will stumble and fall.

When man strives to adopt all good acts and morals, then Allah listens to prayers and draws the believer closer to Himself.

The Promised Messiahas said that the true purpose of the Holy Quran is to establish righteousness.

Huzooraa said that special focus and attention is needed to establish righteousness in the Western countries that promote ill in the name of so-called “freedom”.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa prayed that Allah may enable everyone to establish true righteousness and gain the blessings of Allah.

The session ended with silent prayer led

by Huzooraa and choral poems recited by groups of Lajna and Nasirat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in the Paris Mosque

Continued from page 3

of allowing the mosque to be built in their country. As the majority of those present were of Moroccan or of other Arabic origin, Sheikh Abdur Rahman Misri Sahib translated Huzoor’s[ra] words into Arabic.

The architect of the mosque came out saw him off. It was still raining but as we had to board the train to Italy, Huzoor[ra] walked to his car in the rain. As soon as we arrived at the hotel, we started preparing for the journey that we were to embark upon later that night. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] himself packed his luggage and assigned various duties to us all – cargo bookings, train reservations etc.

We arrived at the Gare de Lyon Station of Paris. The clerical staff, the porters and all other railway staff could not understand a single word we spoke in English and we could not grasp a single word of French.

The whole situation became very amusing, but we were concerned about missing our train. Something had to be done.

Our train was scheduled to depart at

9:20pm and it was already 8:45pm. Porters had loaded our baggage onto trollies but left without moving the trollies. Finally, Huzoor[ra] arrived and we all felt relieved.

Chaudhry Zafrullah Khan Sahib and Khalid Sheldrake Sahib had to do a bit of running around before issues were resolved and we were just about able to catch the train.

As we anxiously ran to catch the train, passengers and bystanders looked on in great excitement. The train was about to set off when we somehow managed to haphazardly throw in our luggage and jump aboard ourselves.

The train had just started to move when someone said that our booked luggage had not been boarded. Abdur Rahim Nayyar Sahib was given a 10-pound note and told to immediately get off the train and come with the luggage the following day. It was later discovered that the luggage had been boarded on our train. It was by the sheer grace of Allah that this near impossible task was accomplished, albeit with great difficulty. It was as if each one of us had a dozen angels as helpers.

As the train started to head towards our destination, putting all the scattered luggage together was a big task. Sheikh Abdur Rahman Misri Sahib supervised this. That done, everyone started to feel hungry, so food was served – this helped in diverting our attention from the worries of the journey. Having eaten well, we all felt like talking to other passengers and try to do a bit of tabligh to them. After all, this was the primary purpose of the whole tour anyway.

There were four French passengers in the compartment that I sat in, three men and a woman. They had a French newspaper which they would glance at and then start staring at us. We tried to break the ice by talking to them but of course they would not understand a word, sign language also proved to be of no avail.

Finally, they held out the newspaper towards us, showed us a photograph and asked which one of us that was. The photograph was of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] that a newspaper had published with the story of Huzoor’s[ra] presence in Paris.

Although with great difficulty, we were able to somehow communicate to them that the person in the photograph is a man of God and is seated in the first-class compartment right now.

We told them that he wears a white turban and that makes him easily recognisable. I am sure that they would have definitely caught a glimpse of Huzoorra when we all disembarked the train as they seemed to be inquisitive. I had a few franks in my pocket which I offered them in exchange of the newspaper. They refused to accept the money but gave us the copy of the newspaper. We were aware of this photograph being published along with the news but had not been able to get it, so by the grace of Allah, we were able to obtain it this way.

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

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Religion is a solution and not the cause of current problems Huzoor’saa address to guests at Jalsa Holland 2019

At 14:33 GMT, on Saturday, 28 September, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived in the Jalsa Gah of Holland Jamaat, where external guests had gathered to listened to Huzoor’saa words in a special event organised especially for them.

The formal gathering commenced with the recitation of Surah al-Hujurat, chapter 49, verse 14 followed by its translation.

Three guest speakers were scheduled to speak before Huzooraa. The first thanked Huzooraa for being there and for being invited to the event. He praised the Jamaat who have brought a lot of positive change to the local area.

The next speaker who served the international human rights committee investigating the lives of Ahmadis who have fled from Pakistan to Thailand and Malaysia due to religious persecution, presented his findings of this committee.

He expressed his firm belief that more should be done by Western countries to help such persecuted people.

The last speaker to talk to the gathering before Huzooraa was the mayor of Nunspeet. The mayor said that he wished to welcome Huzooraa and all those who had gathered in the city. He said that his sentiments were similar to that of the first speaker in that the Jamaat connected

“We proudly proclaim to be the followers of that Noble Prophetsa who the Holy Quran declared, ‘A mercy for mankind’.

This is the reason that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community raises the slogan of ‘Love for all and hatred for none’."

people and spread love, something that is much needed in the world.

For the special purpose people had gathered, the mayor asked what our duty was in the world. He said that the answer to this is something that everybody must continue to look into.

Thereafter, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa took to the podium and presented his address.

After Tashahud and Ta‘awuz, Huzooraa thanked all the guests who had accepted the Jamaat’s invitation to the function.

Huzooraa said that a concerted attempt had been made in recent years to spread hate against Islam and malign the character of Prophet Muhammadsa, yet despite this happening all over the world, those who had come to attend showed their openmindedness.

Religion is a personal matter for everyone and no one has the right to think ill of or deride another’s belief. Doing this only leads to further division and inflicting pain to others. Understanding one another is the only true means to peace.

In Holland, for instance, Huzooraa said that certain people had made it a point to raise false accusations against the Holy Prophetsa and Islam.

Huzooraa explained that peace is something that different nations and peoples aspire to achieve. However, “What is peace and why do we need it?”

Huzooraa asked.

He said: “In my view, there are two types of peace. There is outward peace and inner peace. Often, at a superficial level, people

can appear to be happy and content. Yet, though they have outward peace, they remain bereft of inner peace. For example, powerful and influential people often speak about developing peace and they personally possess all the trappings and comforts of the world. Nevertheless, many admit that they remain in search of peace of mind and are consumed by tensions and vexation.

“From a purely external and material point of view, they have all that they need, yet their minds remain plagued by anxiety and their hearts remain unfulfilled. Thus, the reality is that until a person attains inner peace, their material comforts are worthless. Simply put, the one thing money cannot buy is inner peace.

“For example, imagine the case of an affluent mother, who has riches beyond her needs, but her child becomes lost. Despite having every possible worldly comfort, she will remain frantic and desperate, until she finds her child.”

Addressing a common problem being faced in the world today, Huzooraa said: “Sadly, in both the developed and developing worlds, mental health issues are on the rise. In rich countries, increasing number of people are committing suicide, suffering from breakdowns or depression, even though they are relatively strong in financial status.

“Unsurprisingly, a lack of inner peace is also common amongst the weaker and vulnerable members of society, who cannot fulfil their basic needs and who desperately yearn for the comforts available to others.

Thus, frustration and inner turmoil is palpable amongst the rich and the poor.”

Huzooraa then explained that critics blame religion for such mental suffering.

Huzooraa explained: “As a religious leader, I firmly believe that instead of being the cause of today’s problems, religion is the answer and from an Islamic perspective, the solution is quite simple.”

Huzooraa explained that the Holy Prophetsa of Islam taught that everyone should seek to find their Creator Who is the Lord of all the worlds. He looks over everyone, irrespective of their religious beliefs or background. Another instruction is that a Muslim should like for his brother what he likes for himself.

The unfortunate truth is that most people do not wish peace and contentment for their opponents and competitors.

Huzooraa said that the principle given by Islam’s Prophetsa is that if you wish good for yourself, then you should wish good for others also.

Unfortunately, equity and justice are being ignored by many powers of the world and this is reflected through various foreign policies of rich and powerful countries.

Many nations have sent their armies to conflict-ridden countries with the claim of establishing peace, yet the actual purpose behind those missions in the past has been to serve their own agendas and vested interests. This has always led to disaster and frustration.

The world is now so connected that the ramifications of events taking place in a country are bound to exceed the

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM boundaries of that country. Thus, the solution to this is that we should like for others what like for ourselves. We must turn to our Lord and try to emulate His attributes. Our motivation and purpose must be pure.

Huzooraa said: “Human beings should set aside their personal interests in the pursuit of peace and ensure that their motivations are pure at all times.”

Huzooraa carried on by saying that all government leaders routinely condemn warfare and bloodshed, however the reality is that their opposition to such matters remains focused on the interest of their own people. If they are attacked or their rights are usurped, they talk out, however, they do not partake in fair and honest dialogue when wrongs are done to innocent people around the world.

Addressing many privileged nations, Huzooraa said: “They are pouring petrol on an open flame and the result is that innocent people, including women, children and the elderly are losing their lives and observing the torment of their families. Cities, town and villages are being ravaged and torn asunder.

The only possible result is an upsurge in frustration and resentment amongst the local people and this is something that has been all too apparent in war-torn Muslim countries in recent years.”

Huzooraa questioned whether the world was doing what they could to stop promoting hate for Islam and its Prophetsa.

Huzooraa clarified that the state of unrest in the world, whether in Muslim or nonMuslim countries, has nothing to do with Islamic teachings. People suggest that Islam is responsible for this unrest, however nothing could be further from the truth. The Prophetsa of Islam only taught love for fellow brethren and explained that God is the source of peace.

From the basic family unit all the way to governments, the Prophetsa taught to deal peacefully and with justice. A fairminded review of Islamic history proves that these are completely unjust and false accusations.

After bearing the most unimaginable atrocities, Muslims migrated to a distant

land to avoid being persecuted. They travelled to a land that was ruled by a just king, with the hope of living in peace. After the pursuit of the opponents, Muslims continued to declare the unity of God and the importance of dealing with fairness and justice. Despite the opponents’ hatred for the Prophetsa and their desire to destroy Islam, they were forced to admit on multiple occasions that the Prophetsa and his companionsra always taught to remain patient and steadfast in their way through peaceful means.

Huzooraa then further elaborated on the history of early Islam, which is clearly explained in chapter 25, verse 64, wherein Muslims were taught to remain patient and dignified always, even when faced by the ignorant.

On the command of God Almighty, they continued to practice this in an attempt to establish everlasting peace.

Chapter 10, verse 26 shows that Muslims were to only promote peace and harmony and bring people together, as it states: “And Allah calls to the abode of peace, and guides whom He pleases to the straight path.”

When persecution saw no bounds, Muslims migrated to another land, but even there, opponents pursued them.

Then, in chapter 22, verses 40-41, Muslims were given permission to defend not just Islam, but the institution of religion as a whole. This too came with strict conditions, for instance, to not to attack any religious leader, to avoid cutting down trees, killing children, women and the elderly.

Various historians of early Islam today admit that it is inaccurate to suggest that early Islamic history was full of bloodshed.

The number of people who lost their lives in the period of early Islam is a fraction of the number of people who have lost their lives due to modern-day warfare and bombings.

Thus, Muslims have a duty to spread peace and this can only be done through love for others.

“Religion is and always will be a matter of the heart and a personal matter for each individual. The very meaning of the word

Breunis van de Weerd (mayor of Nunspeet), Laurens Klappe (Ermelo Party Councillor) and Harry Van Bommel (ex-member of parliament) meeting with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

‘Islam’ is peace and there are many verse of the Holy Quran that make it categorically clear that Muslims must be peaceful and show love and respect to others.

“How could it be that when such peaceful teachings were revealed to the Prophet of Islam, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, that he himself would violate its teachings? Honest and fair historians testify to the fact that the Holy Prophet of Islam, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, never inflicted any cruelty or usurped the rights of other people. At every juncture, he taught peace, forbearance and fulfilling the rights of mankind and certainly, his teachings are our inspiration.

“We proudly proclaim to be the followers of that Noble Prophetsa who the Holy Quran declared, ‘A mercy for mankind’. This is the reason that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community raises the slogan of ‘Love for all and hatred for none’.

“At this time of strife and division, our message is that all nations and all people must urgently strive for peace. The fierce

critics of Islam should recognise that instead of targeting their bile and venom towards Islam and its Noble Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, they should eradicate the traces of bias, prejudice and self-interest, otherwise disorder and hatred in the world will continue to escalate. Frustration and anger among those Muslims who are uneducated or ignorant of the true teachings of their religion will rise to the surface.

“Not only amongst the Muslim community, but across society, wherever young people are left hopeless and frustrated, they become easy prey for hateful clerics or extremists who poison their minds. We must guard against this, otherwise the bitter cycle of hatred that has darkened the modern world will continue to turn. Peace within Muslim societies and in the wider world will become an ever more distant dream.”

Huzooraa then invited all to join hands to develop a more promising future for the world and our coming generations.

Thereafter, Huzooraa led in silent prayer and departed the hall.

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

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Destined to prosper – The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addresses the concluding session of Jalsa Salana Holland 2019 Nunspeet, the Netherlands, Sunday, 29 September. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, presided over the concluding session of Jalsa Salana Holland, at 1:21 GMT. The formal session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Dr Eman Odeh Sahib, chapter 23, verses 1 to 12.

Saeed Ahmad Jatt Sahib read out the Urdu translation of the Quranic verses. The verses described the qualities of those believers who will be successful.

Next, an Urdu poem written by the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was read by Hammad Abassi Sahib.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then presented awards of academic excellence to 15 members of Holland Jamaat.

Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Huzooraa recited verse 9 from Surah al-Saff, translation of which is: “They desire to extinguish the light of Allah with the breath of their mouths, but Allah will perfect His light, even if the disbelievers hate it.”

Huzooraa said that it was the claim of the Promised Messiahas that he was, according to the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa, sent to revive Islam. Therefore, it was essential that Allah showed signs of support to the Promised Messiahas. Referring to the verse which he had recited at the start, Huzooraa said that this verse was revealed also to the Promised Messiahas on many

occasions, before and after his claim.

The Promised Messiahas had announced that Islam would flourish and spread with his advent. He further stated that people claim that Islam will never be successful and be destroyed, they try to blow the light of Allah out. However, they will not be successful.

Huzooraa said that people were striving to stamp out Islam at the time of the Promised Messiahas. Even Muslims themselves began to, and still do, oppose the Promised Messiahas. However, they were never and will never be able to cause any harm to Islam. Huzooraa said that even today, Islam shall be protected and will spread through the teachings of the Promised Messiahas.

The mission that Allah desires to complete can never be stopped by any opposition. They cannot divert the decree of Allah. Huzooraa said that it is Allah’s promise that he will stop all those who oppose Islam and the mission of the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas said that opponents tried and desired to extinguish this light of Allah. However, Allah had promised in the Holy Quran that they will not be able to do so.

Those who were and are of good nature, through the blessings of Allah, continue to accept the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas said that this was the last age, the 14th century. All signs that were meant to manifest at the advent of the Promised Messiahas were shown. Huzooraa stated that the Promised

Messiahas said that he was sent to manifest the grandeur of the Holy Prophetsa.

However, those who are blind cannot see this, even though it is as clear as the sun.

Huzooraa said that a reason as to why socalled scholars do not accept the Promised Messiahas is due to vested interests. They worry that their means of sustenance will diminish if they accept the Promised Messiahas.

Ahmadis have the greatest belief that the Holy Prophetsa is the last law-bearing prophet and none can come after him.

Some say that we offer Salat and fast, so why should they accept the Promised Messiahas. To this question, the Promised Messiahas said that such people are ignorant.

The only way to meet God in this age is through the Promised Messiahas.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that he would relate incidents that show how Allah guided people to Islam Ahmadiyyat and caused opponents to fail.

The Promised Messiahas said that those who have a pure nature come towards him like metal is attracted to a magnet. However those who have an abhorrent nature do not accept and continue to grow in opposition.

Such people will never receive any benefit.

The Promised Messiahas said that those people are blessed who worry about their faith, protect themselves, think positively and seek the truth. He said that it is not difficult to find out if one is truthful.

The first incident Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa narrated was of an Ahmadi

from Mali. He narrates that he heard the Jamaat’s radio and also the speech of those who were against Ahmadis, and he prayed for guidance. After this, he saw a saint in a dream who said everyone shall accept Ahmadiyyat, whether now or later.

Then another 80 year-old man from Mali who was Muslim, after seeing the socalled scholars, left Islam and indulged in idolatry. He built a house that was full of idols. Some time later, he saw in a dream that a man was carrying out tabligh about the Imam Mahdi. After this dream, he began listening to the Jamaat’s radio and his love for Islam rekindled. He ultimately accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat after research. His house of Idols also broke down which he saw as a sign from Allah.

A sadr Lajna from an area within Ivory Coast is a pious lady. She says that her husband was staunch against the Jamaat, yet he would say that his wife transformed for the better after accepting Ahmadiyyat. The lady began praying for him. The husband narrated a dream that caused him to research about Ahmadiyyat. When he decided to accept Ahmadiyyat, he saw another dream in which the local missionary was resetting his room and then came out and said to him that now because you are changing yourself, everything needed to be changed.

The gentleman says that, in the dream, when he entered the room everything was new and full of light. After this, he accepted Ahmadiyyat and did Bai‘at.

The missionary from Senegal writes about the story of a lady. When this lady heard the message of the Jamaat on the radio she went to the Jamaat’s mission and said that she wanted to accept Ahmadiyyat. With this, she also said that though her husband opposed this decision of hers, she would still accept Ahmadiyyat with all her children.

Huzooraa said that she entered Ahmadiyyat and also is active in paying Chanda.

A household accepted Ahmadiyyat in Benin after tabligh in their area. The head of that household, after listening to the message of Ahmadiyyat, said that he wanted to accept Islam Ahmadiyyat along with his household. He then sent two of his children to the Jamaat’s mission house to learn the Holy Quran. Now, within a year, his elder son can read the Holy Quran and is very active within the Jamaat. He even desires to enter Jamia Ahmadiyya.

A lady in Mexico attended a Jamaat book stall. After seeing the book stall she said that she especially prayed to be guided. As a result, she accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat. A very special element of her is that she has an immense love for the Holy Quran and calls it her “treasure”. She said that “she could not live without reading the Holy Quran”.

A gentleman from Benin contacted the Jamaat. When he went to the missionary, after having his questions answered, accepted Ahmadiyyat. He later said that the truthfulness of the Jamaat was manifested upon him like that of day.

An imam from Ivory Coast, after seeing a series of dreams, accepted Ahmadiyyat.

A gentleman from Nigeria stated that he would enter various Muslim sects but would leave after seeing their dire state. He was pleased to see the teachings presented on MTA International but was still hesitant. Nevertheless, he began to watch Huzoor’saa sermons and started to pray for guidance. His desire to watch the sermons

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM grew and ultimately he realised that Jamaate-Ahmadiyya was the truth, so he accepted it.

Another gentleman relates that his father told him that when the Dajjal comes, the Imam Mahdi will also manifest. His father told him to do the Bai‘at of the Imam Mahdi. One day, after the demise of his father, he was listening to the Jamaat’s radio, the topic was about the Imam Mahdi. After some hesitation, he continued to listen to the Jamaat radio and ultimately realised it was the truth and performed Bai‘at.

A gentleman from Mali relates that he had never heard about Ahmadiyyat in his life. He once heard the radio of the Jamaat when passing a shop and found everything he was hearing very interesting and promising. He took permission from the shop owner to listen to the radio at his shop later. For the next five days, he consciously listened to the radio and ultimately accepted Islam.

At a book fair in India a gentleman approached the Jamaat bookstall. After some discussion, it seemed that the gentleman knew a lot about Ahmadiyyat.

The missionary says that the gentleman said that he would watch MTA a lot. He was convinced of the truthfulness of the Jamaat through the videos of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh that were broadcast on MTA. The gentleman desired to meet an Ahmadi Muslim to profess his belief and was now able to at the book fair.

Khadija Sahiba, a lady from Belize was the first lady to perform Bai‘at in Belize. The missionary in Belize states that many others accepted the Jamaat after seeing her. Once she had an accident with another lady whose

name was Carla Sahiba. Khadija Sahiba did tabligh to her and invited her to Jalsa Salana.

Carla Sahiba later performed Bai‘at as well.

Upon being asked as to why she did Bai‘at, Carla Sahiba said that she knew about the Jamaat prior and was convinced of its truth.

She had also desired to meet an Ahmadi.

She said that the accident was a sign for her as it enabled her to meet an Ahmadi. Thus, she also performed Bai‘at.

A lady from France narrates that her sister accepted Ahmaidyyat after watching MTA, but she did not. She narrates that her household would label Ahmadis as liars. However, after a series of dreams, she realised the Jamaat was truthful and accepted Ahmadiyyat. She narrates that after reading the Jamaat’s commentaries of the Holy Quran she was amazed and realised they were superior to the commentaries of the Holy Quran she would read prior.

Amir Sahib Gambia writes that by the grace of Allah, the Jamaat was able to build a mosque in a district within Gambia.

Neighboring non-Ahmadi scholars would come to the mosque and try to scare those who attended the mosque, saying that Ahmadis are non-Muslim and if any of them die they will not be allowed to be buried. An uneducated lady confronted the scholars and said “do Ahmadis not recite Surah al-Fatihah in this mosque?” She told them to do what they wanted because they would stay firm on Ahmadiyyat, no matter what. In this way the non-Ahmadi scholars went away.

A gentleman from Benin accepted Ahmadiyyat when he was very poor. The local scholars opposed him a great deal.

Nevertheless, he would always give Chanda,

100 Years Ago...

Qadian to London Nayyar’s Travelogue Al Fazl, 30 September 1919 Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

20 July 1919: I cannot find the strength to leave my chair. Going to the lower deck [of the ship] is troublesome [for me].

Occasionally, the waves splash water on those sitting on the top deck. In the midst of these troublesome circumstances, nothing alive is visible beyond the ship, for miles on end. All one can hear is the sound of the ship. The [cheerful] cries of English toddlers and their screams of joy while playing is charming. Their noise is a source of amusement for men who have families and remind [us] of the small faces [of our children], who are the delight of our eyes. In this condition, I turned towards the waters of the Arabian Peninsula and with eyes full of tears and a heavy heart, I put its raging waters to shame by recalling its past glory when it was an Islamic sea. I then said: “O’ muddy water of Arabia, you are presently away from your real purity.

Neither do your northern shores possess the name of the blessed and pure Islam nor do your eastern and western coasts possess the

sign of purity and light of that Holy Being which was manifested by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Most certainly, you were a Muslim at one time. But now it is the time for you to become a [truly faithful] Muslim, rather than a Muslim by name. Instead of this hurtful rage, [you] should become an Ahmadi by displaying your graceful nature.

Thereafter, you will become an honourable, pure and clear water and your past glory will be restored.”

21 July 1919: I cannot move from my place but Allah Almighty inspired a noble Hindu gentleman to come to me and listen to my discourse. The name of this gentleman is Mr R Hindo and he is a pundit from Kashmir.

He is on a tour of Europe. He will observe the standard of education and general state of women living in south of France, Portugal and Spain. He said to me that these were Islamic countries and they must have had [Islamic] civilisation. I simply replied by saying: ‫م اک درد ااھٹ آوھکنں ی‬ ‫دل ی‬ ‫م آوسن آےئ‬ ‫ٹ‬ ‫ٹ‬ ‫�ب�ی�ھے �ب�ی�ھے ہ ی‬ ‫کا اجےئن ی‬ ‫� ی‬ �‫کا ی�اد آ یا‬

whether little or more. Now, he narrates, that he has been blessed manifold in his sustenance and also owns a motorcycle. This was because he accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya did tabligh to a village in Liberia. After the tabligh, the Imam of the village said that a few months prior some scholars came to their village and claimed that it was Ahmadis who killed Imam Hassan and Hussain. The local Imam expressed his regret that they listened to those scholars and stayed away from Ahmadiyyat. However, now, after listening to the truth, the Imam said that they would accept Ahmadiyyat as it was the truth.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then quoted the Promised Messiahas, who said that Allah sends down angels along

prophets, who support him. The Promised Messiahas further said that the time will certainly come when Allah will manifest the truth. However, at that time, forgiveness will not be accepted.

Huzoor said that the Jamaat would flourish, prosper and spread; this is a decree of God that shall come to be.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa stated that every Ahmadi should focus on tabligh, as a result, gaining the blessings of Allah.

The total attendance of Jalsa Salana Holland amounted to 5839 attendees. 1576 were from Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Holland.

Huzooraa then led the congregation in silent prayer. This was followed by choral poems recited by various groups.

[“Pain arose in my heart and my eyes are full of tears. You cannot imagine what came to my mind all of a sudden”]

Disembarking upon the land of Arabia, we sent a telegram to his holiness Hazrat Khalifatul Masihra, conveying our safe arrival in Aden [in Yemen], after escaping the storm. We offered congregational prayers of Zuhr and Asr in a mosque. Then, we had a look at the port of Aden.

The ancient town of Aden is a fiveminute drive from here on a motor car and motors are easily available over here.

Anyhow, we have seen the complete picture [of Aden] in the small town by the port. The green tea-houses are full of Arabs. They are playing ganjfa [a game of cards].

The entire trade is in the hands of the Greeks, Jews and French. There are shops of Parsees and Hindu merchants as well.

Muslims are repulsive towards studying.

Currently, attention has been drawn towards it. An Arabian [study] club has been formed and an Islamic Anjuman has been established as well. Leather trade can very well be carried out here if Ahmadi merchants pay attention towards it. The production of honey and coffee is better here than any other place across the globe. This is a tax-free port. The ponds here were created

by Shaddad [a wicked king who is said to have built a paradise] and are remarkable places of recreation]. A brother who feels affection towards Ahmadis met us as well.

He will distribute our literature, Insha-Allah.

He requests way-passenger brothers not to leave [Aden] without meeting him. His address can be gathered from the office of Talif [central publications and propagations directorate].

Dear Hindo! if the traces of Islam are not to be found in these countries any more, then say to the land thither that Islam in the days of its progression refrained from cruelty in that place. My eyes were full of tears in reality and the map of transformation over time came before me: ‫دباتل ےہ رگن آامسں ک�یسے ک�یسے‬ [ “How diverse are the changes in the shades of the sky!”]

22 July 1919: The weather is unpleasant as usual, and the storm is violent. Today, the sun sparkled a little. Black birds are seen flying over the water. These are marine Black Egrets which roost over the waves of the ocean. The captain of the ship is a clever person and his viceroy’s daughter is on board the ship as well. Therefore, the ship has been diverted from the center of the ocean and being steered near the coastline.

A dangerous “wind storm” is on its way. The captain is making effort, so that the ship escapes this “windy grasp”.

24 July 1919: Today, I had the opportunity to discourse with some Muslims and to distribute Ahmadiyya literature.

25 July 1919: Circling around a 300-mile radius and escaping the “wind storm”, the ship has reached near the coast of Arabia today. By chance, we have found a small and new steam launch boat of the government.

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

Islamic abode of peace and security in the Netherlands Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa opens Baitul Afiyat Mosque in Almere

Almere, the Netherlands, Tuesday, 01 October: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his helper, attended the inaugural ceremony of Baitul Afiyat Mosque, Almere, the Netherlands.

The inaugural session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran with Urdu translation, chapter 2, verses 128 to 130.

A member of the Socialist Party was then invited on stage in which he welcomed Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and the congregation to the city. He thanked Huzooraa for adding “this beautiful project in this wonderful city”. He also recognised the strains upon Ahmadis in Muslim countries.

However, he said, the motto, “love for all hatred for none” would ultimately dispel the hatred.

Next, a member of the political party “Respect Almere” spoke to the congregation.

He said that “freedom of religion is for everyone” and also congratulated the community for the new mosque.

After this, a member of the Sikh community congratulated the Jamaat for “this holy day”. The Sikh gentleman spoke of his visit to Qadian and the honour and

respect he has received from the members of the Jamaat. He said that “I have deep respect for Hazrat Sahib, His Highness, who has come all the way from England”.

Next, Amir Sahib Holland welcomed Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa to the inauguration. Amir Sahib thanked the government for allowing Jamaat-eAhmadiyya the Netherlands for building this mosque. A brief history of the Jamaat’s progressions in the Netherlands was also given by him.

A Dutch politician from the Labour party also spoke before the congregation.

He spoke of the new city of Almere and welcomed the Jamaat’s mosque in Almere.

Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa thanked the guests for accepting the invitation to the opening of the new mosque.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that many people living in the western world harbour suspicion about Islam and Muslims.

Huzooraa said that it was no exaggeration

that many people fear the religion of Islam and its followers. Despite this, the fact that the guests had accepted the invitation to the opening of the mosque proved that they are “open-hearted people”. Further, Huzooraa assured the guests that religion is a “matter of the heart” and everyone is free to follow what they like.

Referring to the Holy Quran, Huzooraa said that it clearly states that there should be no compulsion with matters of religion. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa told the congregation that Ahmadi Muslims have a deep connection with their mosque and on the other hand the guests had no such emotional bond to the mosque. Noting this, Huzooraa said that this proved that the guests were “kind, generous and tolerant people”. Huzooraa said, “I also commend you, because taking the time to learn about the faith and beliefs of others’ is a crucial way of knocking down the barriers that divide us and exposing those myths that often cultivate unnecessary anxiety…”

Huzooraa said that it is a cause of extreme regret to him and to all peace loving Muslims that in non-Muslim countries there is the

“widespread fear of Islam”. Many people believe that mosques only disrupt the peace within society. However, the reality is opposite to this, Huzooraa said.

With this in mind, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa mentioned the core purposes of a mosque so that everyone could also understand the purpose of the new mosque in Almere.

“Mosques are a place where Muslims join together to bow down and prostrate before God Almighty”, Huzooraa explained.

The second crucial purpose of a mosque is to be a place for Muslims to strengthen their relations and unity. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that the third objective for any mosque “is to be a means of introducing non-Muslims to the teachings of Islam and to fulfil the rights of the wider society”. Huzooraa said that mosques provide a platform to fulfil the rights of the wider society, regardless of creed or colour.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa made it clear that any mosque that does not serve as a beacon of peace and sympathy for mankind and neither fulfils the rights of God and man are nothing but a “hollow and empty shell.”

A mosque that was built to divide Muslims and promote hostility during the lifetime of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was referred to by Huzooraa. The mosque, from the commandment of Allah, was demolished by the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that a mosque’s objectives can only be fulfilled when worshippers enter to worship Allah the Almighty and to work for the betterment of humanity. Huzooraa said that “a mosque’s purpose can only be fulfilled when the worshippers are infused with a spirit of selflessness, humility and true sympathy and love for all mankind”.

Another aspect Huzooraa made clear was that a mosque is a purely spiritual place that should be kept clear of worldliness.

Mosques are only permitted to hold such events or gatherings that encourage the worship of the One God or which peacefully convey Islam’s teachings or serve the needs of humanity.

With the grace of Allah, the Jamaat has been able to establish an international charity, Humanity First. At a community

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM level, various charity events are also carried out all across the world. Huzooraa spoke of the charitable works of the Jamaat in Africa and the schools, hospitals and clinics that the Jamaat builds. This is all for serving humanity.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa detailed the humanity relief project of the Jamaat that provides clean and portable water to local people across Africa. Huzooraa said “You cannot imagine, until you see it with your own eyes, how the local people who had no concept of clean water are overcome with emotion and are bridled with joy when they see it flowing from their taps, for the very first time”. Huzooraa said that when such desperate people received clean water “it is as if they have received all the treasures of the world”.

Huzooraa explained that “If a Muslim causes pain and distress to other people and fails to show compassion, then even if they are regular in the worship of God, their prayers and supplications are futile and utterly worthless.”

Referring to chapter 107, verses 3 to 7 of the Holy Quran, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that serving humanity was essential for prayers to be accepted. If the rights of the weak and needed are not fulfilled by someone, their prayers shall not be accepted.

“The Holy Quran is very clear that their prayers are meaningless and their hypocritical ways will lead only to their humiliation and despair.”

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that a mosque draws a Muslim’s attention to not only worship God but also to serve

humanity.

With this in mind, there should be no reason to fear a mosque.

The definition of a neighbour in Islam is extremely vast and includes a huge sphere of society. “It comprises the entire neighbourhood” Huzooraa said. Quoting the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that a person’s neighbours included 40 houses around them. In such a manner, it can be said that all the people of Almere are the neighbours of the new mosque.

“Regardless of whether our neighbours are Muslims or non-Muslims, it is our religious duty to care for them; to fulfil their rights and to ensure we do not cause any problems or difficulties for them”, Huzooraa said. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that this was no favour, rather it is “our basic religious duty”.

The local Ahmadi Muslims consider all people of Almere as their neighbors.

Huzooraa said “I am confident that the local Ahmadi Muslims will take, extremely seriously, their obligations towards the local society and will always strive to contribute

positively to the city…”

Local Ahmadi Muslims must always display the highest moral standards and display the true teachings of Islam.

Ahmadi Muslims should remove any fears or misconnections about Islam that may appear among the locals.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa was confident that through the will of God, the relationship between the Jamaat and the wider local society with strengthen.

Huzooraa said that at this time, more than ever before, it is incumbent to unite and strive to bring peace to the world.

Huzooraa prayed that the mosque “proves to be an everlasting beacon of light, radiating peace, love and humanity in all directions”.

Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa thanked, once again, all those who attended the opening of the Mosque.

A short history of Baitul Afiyat, Almere Safeer Ahmad Siddiqui Missionary, Almere, Holland

Allah Almighty states in the Holy Quran: ُ ْ َّ َ ‫َو َما َخ َل ْق ُت الْج َّن َوالْإ‬ ‫ون‬ ِ ‫نس ِإلا ل َِيع ُبد‬ ِ ِ “And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.” (Surah al-Dhariyat, Ch.51: V.57) The primary purpose of our creation is to worship our Creator to the best of our ability. The most suitable place for a Muslim to carry out worship of Allah Almighty is a mosque. The first house of God, the Holy Ka‘bah, in the Holy Quran has been declared a place of peace for all of mankind. Allah Almighty states: ۢ َّ َّ َ ُّ ۡ َ َ َّ َ َّ ً َ َّ ۡ َ ّۡ ‫اس لَل ِذ ۡی ِب َبکۃ ُم ٰب َرکا َو ُہ ًدی ل ِل ٰعل ِمی َن۔ فِ ۡی ِہ ٰا ٰی ٌت‬ ِ ‫ِان اول بی ٍت و ِضع ل ِلن‬ ً ٰ َ َ ٗ َ َ َ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ ٰ ۡ ُ َ َّ ٌ ٰ ّ َ ‫ب ِینت مقام ِابر ِہیم ۚ و من دخلہ کان ا ِمنا‬ “Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Bakkah, abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples.

In it are manifest Signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.97-98) There are also countless sayings of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, regarding the importance and significance of mosques. Once, the Holy Prophetsa said: “O ye people, praise Allah. Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah the Exalted shall build a house for such a one

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

12 in paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab alSalat) The Holy Prophetsa said on another occasion: “To Allah, the most adored places are the mosques”. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab alMasajid wa Mawadhi as-Salat) Following the model of the Ka‘bah and the practice of the Holy Prophetsa, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya is earnestly engaged in building mosques across the globe. The Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa have always paid special attention and emphasis towards the construction of mosques in every corner of the world.

The Promised Messiahas said: “At present, there is a pressing need for our Jamaat to build mosques. A mosque is a house of God. Be it a city or a village, wherever our mosque is built consider it being the building block for the development of the Jamaat in that area.

If there is a village or city where there are no or very few Muslims and promulgation of Islam is required, then just construct a mosque there. Allah will indeed Himself attract Muslims to that place. But there is a condition that the mosque shall be built with very true and honest intentions [i.e. only for God Almighty].” (Malfuzat, Vol 7, p. 119) Baitul Afiyat Mosque of Holland is a picturesque manifestation of every word expressed by the Promised Messiahas in the above statement. Before the construction of Baitul Afiyat, there were only two families in the city of Almere.

A few months later, after the completion of the mosque, by the grace of God Almighty, there has been a sudden increase in the members of the Jamaat in Almere and the total number has equaled the capacity of worshippers which the mosque can accommodate.

Raised from the sea, Almere is a purpose-built city of Holland. Its construction began on 20 September 1975.

The meaning of Almere is “a huge lake” or according to some lexicons, it means “a modern lake”. It is home to more than 200,000 inhabitants from diverse races and ethnic groups. Baitul Afiyat is the seventh mosque in this city and the first of Jamaate-Ahmadiyya.

Every success and progress of the Jamaat is due to the blessings of Khilafat.

The construction of Baitul Afiyat Mosque in Almere was also made possible through the guidance and prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper. The project of Baitul Afiyat Mosque was initiated as a result of the blessed instruction of Huzooraa.

Addressing the Holland Jamaat in 2007, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said: “You should remember that one of the best means of capturing other people’s attention towards you is to build mosques and I want to draw your attention towards this. Currently, there is only one purposebuilt mosque in Holland located in The Hague and it was built nearly 50 years ago. Even then, the expenses of that mosque were given by Lajna, the Lajna of Pakistan in particular. Thereafter, this center of Nunspeet was purchased and even this place, where we are offering the Friday Prayer right now, was bought by the Markaz.

“Thus far, the Jamaat of Holland has not built even a single mosque. Presently, you are in such numbers here that if you decide and harvest a capacity for sacrifice, you can build mosques one after another.

When you will initiate the work, Allah will also help you, Insha-Allah. A great sign of being the best of ummah is that you have full trust in God. When you believe in God, you should also put your trust in Him and as I have just said, when you will start this task of building mosques Allah will help you, Insha-Allah.

“Yesterday I was telling Amir Sahib and missionaries during a meeting that once you start constructing mosques, they will eventually be built, Insha-Allah. If you are fearful of taking it upon yourselves, thinking about where the expenses will come from and when the money will be collected for its construction, then you will never be able to build it. If you make a resolve, Allah Almighty will surely help you, Insha-Allah … Therefore, you need not worry; you should not underestimate yourselves and you should not have wrong opinions about yourselves. By doing so, you are not having wrong opinions about yourselves, but in fact you are having wrong opinions about the blessings of Allah Almighty. If you have faith, then you should believe in the blessings of God. If you set a target that you will at least build one mosque in a city where Ahmadis are in reasonable number (there are two or three cities of such kind), then the Jamaat will spread in abundance, Insha-Allah.

“As I have said earlier, carry out the tabligh and continue to build mosques.

As this is a small country, when mosques are built here, and the call of Allah’s unity resonates from its minarets and you advance in good deeds and worship, then the wrong opinions of the people shall certainly be eliminated and you will be the ones to remove them and you will become the beneficiaries of Allah Almighty’s blessings. These people will know the truth as well and they will also realise that whatever they think or used to think about Islam is not right in reality, but rather it is a religion of those who are spreading peace and beauty. Hence, along with promulgation, you should also pay special attention towards the construction of mosques.” (Friday Sermon, Nunspeet, Holland, 5 January 2007) Against all the odds, when Allah Almighty wills, paths begin to open.

Likewise, the city of Almere was selected for the construction of a mosque when an Ahmadi, Mehbub Ilahi Ranjha Sahib, who lives there, contacted the council in this regard. Thereafter, a mutual connection was established with the city council.

The council suggested a land for the construction of a mosque.

In 2008, a centre by the name of Baitul Mahmud was purchased in the city of Amsterdam as an expression of gratitude for the Khilafat Jubilee. Huzooraa also visited this place in 2008. During the same trip, Huzooraa went to Almere for the first time and visited the council’s proposed land. Eventually, the council itself refused to give the place because of a great protest from the locals.

The council then proposed another location, but this time, the Jamaat refused

because the place was not suitable for the construction of the mosque. Thereafter, the Jamaat’s administration felt that there was no hope. In fact, the interaction with the council was almost over.

A few months later, unexpectedly, the council contacted the Jamaat and suggested another place for building the mosque. When the Jamaat surveyed the land, everyone liked the place. Upon the approval of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, the land was purchased. Huzooraa named the mosque to be built on this land “Baitul Afiyat”.

After purchasing the land, the administration was worried because the council had mentioned while suggesting this place that an anti-Islamic group might object to the construction of the mosque at this place, which could halt its construction.

The Jamaat wrote a letter seeking prayers to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. The effect of this prayer was such that it appeared as if the anti-Islamic party went to sleep, and during the period in which it had a legal right to object, the party did not object and thus there was no stopping in the construction of the mosque.

Amir Sahib Holland has formed a committee known as the CMC (Central Mosque Committee) for the construction of mosques and to purchase centres. This committee had the opportunity to take all the important decisions regarding the mosque. Moreover, the members had the honour of taking guidance from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The members of this committee include Hibatunnoer Verhagen Sahib (Amir Jamaat Holland), Abdul Hameed van der Velden Sahib (Naib Amir Jamaat, appointed as the president of the committee), Naeem Ahmad Waraich Sahib (Missionary In-charge), Hamid Karim Mahmud Sahib (missionary), Muzaffar Hussain Sahib (National General Secretary), Hanif Handrekas Sahib (National Secretary of Estate), Azhar Ali Naeem Sahib (National Secretary of Foreign Affairs), Abdul Haq Compier Sahib, Abdul Basit Sahib and Shahid Fras Sahib.

The architect of this mosque is a friend of the Jamaat, Farhan Ilahi Bakhsh Sahib.

During the construction of this mosque, according to the direction of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, Akram Ahmadi Sahib of IAAAE continued to oversee the mosque committee. The supervisor of this project was Azhar Ali Naeem Sahib and the president of Holland mosque fund was Abdul Basit Sahib.

The level of sacrifice and passion amongst Holland Jamaat members can be estimated in that there was no delay, even for a moment, during the construction of the mosque due to expenses.

The administration of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Holland all express that they do not know who gave the money and where the money came from, but members of the Jamaat continued to provide financial support and ensured the construction of the mosque.

The land of the mosque was purchased in 2012 and it totalled 1436 square metres.

This piece of land was purchased for 276,000 euros. The area on which the

mosque is built is 634 square metres.

The total cost for the construction of the mosque was close to 1.8 million euros.

The building of the mosque consists of two storeys. Downstairs is a multipurpose hall along with two offices for men and women respectively. Upstairs is a mission house of the Jamaat and the mosque itself.

During the period of construction, the community purchased 247 square meters of extra land. Now the total area of the mosque amounts to 1,683 square meters.

The foundation stone of Baitul Afiyat Mosque was laid on 7 October 2015 by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. Thereafter, Hazrat Syeda Amatus Sabooh Begum Sahiba placed the second brick, and then various Jamaat office-bearers and individuals had the honour of placing a brick.

The foundation stone ceremony was attended by more than 55 guests. The Deputy Lord Mayor of Almere, Frits Huis welcomed Huzooraa to the city and said in his address: “Both His Holiness and I were born in the same year, but His Holiness has far more wisdom than me and hence, I will keep my comments extremely brief. It is much more important for us all to listen to him.

All I wish to add is that the key principle of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is peace and so you are extremely welcome in Almere.”

Highlighting the true teaching of Islam, the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said: “Alongside laying the foundation stone, I wish to let the people of this city know that we have named the Mosque as ‘Baitul Aafiyat’ and this means a ‘House of Peace and Security for all people’.”

Referring to a couplet written by the Promised Messiahas, Huzooraa said: “The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community wrote that the entire world was consumed by danger and peril, so he had been sent to provide peace, security and refuge to all mankind.

Therefore, every Ahmadi Mosque, no matter where in the world it is built, is an abode of peace, security and shelter for all of humanity.”

Furthermore, Hazrat Amirul aa Momineen said: “In our own personal lives, if we build a house, we seek to ensure that it is a place where we feel protected, safe and is a place where we can live with true peace of mind and comfort. Hence, in terms of building a House of God, how is it possible that we could ever seek to construct a Mosque that is a means of spreading harm or a threat to anyone? ... It is incumbent on a true Muslim to exhibit love and compassion towards all others and to be guardians of the peace of society. Let it be clear, therefore, that this mosque, whose foundation stone is being laid today, will prove to be a glorious symbol of peace, security and sanctuary for all.”

May Allah the Almighty grant the Jamaat strength to build mosques in every city of the world, so that this religion of “peace” conquers the hearts of humanity and establishes the unity of Allah.

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

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Holland Waqifaat-e-Nau meet Huzoor n 30 September, Lajna and Nasirat of O the Netherlands were graced with a class in the presence of Hazrat Khalifatul

Masih Vaa. The class started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the Translation.

The Lajna Imaillah and Nasirat prepared a presentation on the first five women of the Netherlands to accept Ahmadiyyat.

After the presentations, Nasirat had the opportunity to ask Huzooraa various questions on diverse matters.

One of the Nasirat members asked Huzooraa regarding human nature. She asked that if human nature is pure, then why do people end up doing bad deeds?

Upon this, Huzooraa stated that the

Hadith is not that all human nature is pure, but that all humans are born with a pure nature. The environment and surroundings have an impact on his character and modify a person.

Another girl asked Huzooraa why imams, whilst leading the prayer, do not say “Amin” after reciting Surah al-Fatihah.

Huzooraa answered the young girl by saying that there are two ways of saying “Amin”; you can say “Amin” aloud and also silently. Huzooraa explained that it is important to say it from the heart, just as we do when offering the Zuhr and Asr prayers, wherein we do not recite Surah al-Fatihah aloud.

One young girl asked Huzooraa what

he thought of Holland. Upon this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa lovingly said that Holland is very good.

Another Nasirat member asked Huzooraa regarding the construction of mosques from an architect’s point of view and what things to bear in mind whilst designing mosques. She also asked about the guidance for mosques’ minarets and domes.

Huzooraa, answering the question, stated that there is no compulsory structure.

One may design it how they like. During the time of the Holy Prophetsa, there were no minarets or domes. However, designs should be creative and beautiful.

After asking various questions, the class came to a close.

Waqifeen-e-Nau Khuddam and Atfal spend time in Huzoor’s company

Continued from page 2

safely to Qadian on 17 October.

9 October 1911: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira recommenced his series of Dars-ul-Quran in Masjid Aqsa, Qadian as he felt a little better from his illness.

9 October 1918: Following the devastations of WWI, the world experienced another formidable episode of horror and death. This time it was in the shape of a disease: an unusually deadly influenza pandemic, which was colloquially known as the Spanish Flu. It infected 500 million people around the world. Probably 50 million and possibly as high as 100 million died from it, making it one of the deadliest epidemics in human history. The Jamaat, with its very limited resources, rendered its sincere services in response to the epidemic.

On this date, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra caught this Flu and braved its attack.

The scale of his illness could be judged by the fact that Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra even wrote his will.

9 October 1936: The foundation stone of a mosque in Brahmanbaria, Bengal was laid.

9 October 1947: Hazrat Chaudhary Sir Zafarulla Khanra delivered a powerful and well-grounded speech at the UNO about the Kashmir issue. The speech was widely appreciated by the Muslim press.

9 October 1964: Sheikh Amri Ubaidi Sahib passed away. He was serving as Minister for Cultural Affairs in Tanzania.

On 16 October, he was buried with full army protocols at the Ahmadiyya graveyard. The National President and members of the cabinet also attended his funeral and paid respect to him.

Sheikh Amri Ubaidi Sahib’s contribution to Tanzania as a country were immense.

But his special trait was his zeal and determination to help spread the message of the Jamaat in his country.

10 October 1927: Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra headed towards present day Sri Lanka to spread the message of the Jamaat there. His tour continued until 6 November.

n 30 September, after the Waqifaat-eNau of Netherlands met Huzoor , a O group of Waqf-e-Nau Khuddam and Atfal aa

also had a class with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The class started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by translation.

Thereafter, the Waqifeen delivered Hadith, Malfuzat and a presentation on the existence of God by two members of Khuddam.

Thereafter, the Khuddam and Atfal asked Huzooraa various questions and sought guidance.

A young Tifl asked Huzooraa why God created the universe. Upon this, Huzooraa lovingly said that it was God’s decision to create the universe. Huzooraa further stated that God had made the universe, then the world and then man. God has stated that

He has not created this world in vein, but there is a purpose behind it. Huzooraa stated that when the boy gets older, he would understand.

A Tifl asked how one can spread Ahmadiyyat in schools. Huzooraa stated that we should show a good example, pray five times daily, be good in our daily lives and work and study hard. By doing so, we will attract people through our pious examples.

One young Khadim asked Huzooraa if becoming a missionary was compulsory for Waqifeen-e-Nau. Upon this, Huzooraa stated that it is not compulsory for Waqifeen to go to Jamia and become missionaries. If a Khadim is interested in becoming a doctor, engineer, architect or lawyer, then they may do so.

Huzooraa further stated that Waqifeen

should write to him about what they opt for as their future professions.

One young boy asked Huzooraa what prayer he made to God that made him such a pious man of God. Upon this, Huzooraa stated that he should pray that God gives us all the strength to be righteous people and follow the words of the Khalifa. This is what we should actually pray for.

One young boy requested Huzooraa for prayers as his eyes were very weak. Upon this, Huzooraa instructed him to write to Huzooraa and send his medical report.

The last question was on the definition of being unsuccessful.

Huzooraa replied by saying that one should strive hard and pray to God. Then, one should leave it to God and know that the outcome is the result of God’s will. One should not lose hope in God.

10 October 1940: One of the sayings of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, states to teach one’s children swimming, archery and horse riding. On this date, following the above mentioned hadith, a swimming pool was inaugurated in Qadian to help Atfal learn to swim.

10 October 1942: Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra laid the foundation stone of a new building for the offices of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya in Darul Anwar.

Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Abdullah Khanra graciously donated a piece of land of around 8 kanals from his personal properties in Qadian.

10 October 1947: Another sad incident of a hand grenade thrown into the premises of Masjid Aqsa took place. In reality, the morale of those attacking Qadian was dropping every hour, due to the strong resistance and extraordinary bravery of Ahmadi youth who were protecting sacred places of Qadian.

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM Responding to Allegations

Why did the Promised Messiahas permit his community to use other remedies against the plague? pponents level an allegation against O the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian as to as

why he permitted his community to use other remedies against the plague, while prohibiting his community from taking the prescribed inoculation for the plague.

By raising this objection, opponents suggest that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat was not directed by any revelation of God to take such measures.

The opponents point out an extract of the Promised Messiahas in relation to the above allegation. Below is the actual statement of the Promised Messiahas in this regard: “A person raised a question that certain people say, ‘When [the plague] vaccine is not an option and Allah Almighty has promised protection [against the plague], then why is it prescribed to use marham-eIsa [Ointment of Jesusas] and habb-e-jadwar [a herbal medicine]?’”

To this, the Promised Messiahas replied: “The remedy which has been told by Allah Almighty is part of that protection because, along with [the promise], He Himself indicated [these medicines] as a means for safeguarding. We can use them with an open mind. However, if there was any benefit in taking the inoculation, we would have been directed [by God] in this

regard and then [the people] would have witnessed that we were the first ones to take it. If God Almighty reveals today that a certain remedy or medicine is beneficial, then should we not use it? [We will use it] as it will be a sign … If we take the inoculation against the plague like the general public, then [it shows that we] do not have faith in God … God would have revealed upon me if there had been any benefit in the inoculation [for plague] and in that case, I would have been the first one to receive the vaccine, but when the government has given the choice, then in fact God Almighty has given us this option and lifted the compulsion…

“Our Jamaat must not adhere to mere verbal claims alone and should not be satisfied on simply taking the pledge of Bai‘at. Instead, they should bring a [positive] change in themselves. Ponder over the fact that the army of Mosesas was affected by the outbreak of plague on various occasions.

The enemies must have rejoiced, but Mosesas would have been deeply affected by the situation. It is written [in the books of history] that the epidemic claimed 80,000 lives due to the curse of Balam. Although many others were sinful as well, but the followers of Mosesas were dually responsible.

Very few people purify their hearts…”

“We do not deny the efficacy of medicines

… However, if those people are killed who take the inoculation [for plague] and you [the members of Jamaat] also die, then there is no difference. Therefore, [spiritual] transformation is required.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, pp. 68-72) The above-mentioned statement of the Promised Messiahas elucidates that God Almighty had only indicated to refrain from taking the inoculation of plague. Moreover, the Promised Messiahas laid much emphasis on spiritual reformation as the real remedy against the plague instead of falling into the discussion of worldly cure.

The opponents highlight another extract of the Promised Messiahas and allege that he considered the act of certain rich persons of Lahore who opted to take the inoculation for the plague to be a negligence. Moreover, the opponents conclude from the statement of the Promised Messiahas that he mentioned the account of wealthy people to demonstrate that it was only them who agreed to take the plague vaccine in order to please the government whereas the general public rejected it.

Below is the complete statement of the Promised Messiahas which significantly clarifies the above allegation: “The act of certain respectable landlords who have agreed to take the inoculation [for plague] does not show their bravery, but in fact, this intrepidity is to please and assist the government. Thus far, it will be considered that our Jamaat is going against the government. Pressing priority should be given to the realisation of God. All matters come after God as we have already mentioned that salvation is possible through [true] faith.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 78) The above extract simply addresses the act of certain respectable landlords of Lahore with respect to the plague vaccine.

By no means does it conclude that the general public rejected the inoculation for the plague.

The opponents have falsely assumed from the statement that the Promised Messiahas, by mentioning the upper class to have opted for the plague vaccine, meant that the rest of the people did not take it.

The statement of the Promised Messiahas is quite clear, and deducing any meaning that is not even hinted is irrational and absurd. For instance, if someone prays:

ْ ّ ‫ا ْھدنَا‬ ‫الص َر َاط ال ُم ْس َتق ِْی َم‬ ِ ِ ِ “[O Allah] guide us on the right path” (Surah al-Fatihah, Ch.1: V.6), in view of the opponents, this means that God should guide us on the right path but lead others astray. However, a sensible person can never derive such a meaning from the verse.

Moreover, there are various statements of the Promised Messiahas which openly express that the general public was inclined to take the inoculation for the plague. For instance, the Promised Messiahas states: “If we take the inoculation against the plague like the general public, then [it shows that we] do not have faith in God.”(Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 78-79) Apart from that, the opponents have deceivingly refrained from mentioning the next few lines following the extract under discussion. It is stated in Malfuzat that the Promised Messaihas said regarding the inhabitants of Qadian who opted for inoculation of plague: “It is in our favour [that some people have taken the inoculation] because sinful and impious people are also present and the vaccine is an apparent means [of cure]. When these people believe in their assumptions [i.e. inoculation], then why should we not believe in our faith?” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p.

78-79) Hence, it is evident from the statement of the Promised Messiahas that some of the people decided to take the plague vaccine, which quite clearly shatters the objection of the opponents.

The opponents highlight another extract of Malfuzat, dated 5 November 1902, which indicates that the Promised Messiahas was informed about the cessation of plague inoculation in district Gujranwala and Gurdaspur by the then government. By presenting this excerpt, opponents suggest that the news of cessation led Hazrat Ahmadas to prohibit his community from taking the plague vaccine.

It should be noted in the first place that the news specifies the cessation of vaccine in only two districts and not the entire subcontinent. Moreover, examining the medical history of the subcontinent, we find from reliable books of medicine that the procedure of plague vaccination was carried out even after the year 1903. For instance, Khan Bahadur NH Choksy reports some figures of various private practitioners of the

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM subcontinent in his book, Serum-Therapy of Plague in India: A Record of Work Brought up to Date (1907). He states that 1,408 people received the plague vaccine during the course of the years 1904 to 1907. There were 751 deaths and the mortality ratio was 53.3%. (Khan Bahadur NH Choksy, SerumTherapy of Plague in India: A Record of Work Brought up to Date, pp. 49-52) The reference cited above signifies that the process of plague inoculation continued even after 5 November 1902 till 1907. All those statements presented by the opponents which show that the Promised Messiahas was not satisfied with the efficacy of the plague vaccine were given after the publication of the book Noah’s Ark on 5 October 1902. Moreover, we have proved with sufficient evidence in a previous article of Responding to Allegations (Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas – Part XIX) that the announcement made by the Promised Messiahas indicating the refusal of plague inoculation published in Noah’s Ark was based on a revelation of Allah Almighty that he received two or three months earlier.

Lastly, we present those extracts of the book, Noah’s Ark, which clearly show that the Promised Messiahas was not informed about the harmful effects of the plague inoculation and that he did not criticise its efficacy while he was writing those lines and it was only God Almighty Whose hand was at work. The Promised Messiahas states: “There can be no doubt that until now inoculation is by far the best physical remedy that the government has found, and there is no denying that this remedy has proven to be effective. It is the duty of all subjects to make use of the means that are available to them so that they may relieve the government of the pain it feels for them.

This notwithstanding, we must say to this kind government with all due respect that had there not been a heavenly prohibition for us, we would have been the first among its subjects to be inoculated.” (Noah’s Ark, p.

2) The Promised Messiahas further states: “I consider it a sin to throw doubt on this sign by recourse to inoculation, for it is a sign, which God, for our sake, wishes to demonstrate clearly in the world. I dare not demean His true sign and His true promise by resorting to inoculation. If I did, I would be accountable for the sin of not believing in the promise that God has given to me.

If I was to benefit from the inoculation, then I should be grateful to the doctor who invented the vaccine and not to God Who promised me that He would protect everyone dwelling in this house.” (Noah’s Ark, p. 5) The Promised Messiahas then states: “It should also be kept in mind that on account of this divine promise, it is necessary for me to eschew any human contingencies, lest our enemies attribute this divine sign to other agencies. However, in addition to this, should God Almighty Himself disclose any other means or remedy to me through His word, then such means or remedy would not contravene this sign, for they emanate from God Who has manifested this sign.”

(Noah’s Ark, p. 8)

15

National Ijtema Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Belgium

Muhammad Arsalan Belgium Correspondent

ational Khuddam Ijtema Belgium N was held on 30 August from 30 to 1 September in Bait-ur-Rahim Mosque,

Alken.

The Ijtema committee started work about two months prior to the Ijtema and held two meetings with committee members. Five to six meetings with Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya Belgium, Tauseef Ahmed Sahib were also held.

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium paid special attention towards promoting the Ijtema through social media and video promos. Video promos were circulated before the Ijtema and at the end of the first day, a highlights video was released that also motivated those Khuddam who were unable to the first day, to attend the Ijtema.

On the second day, a video was released in which Sadr Majlis, Tauseef Ahmad Sahib gave a very inspirational message. Our social media team were actively releasing content throughout the Ijtema and tweeted regularly during all the sessions.

Missionary in charge, Hafiz Essan Secunder Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya and Ijtema nazim-e-ala all inspected the Ijtema site and hoisted the flags afterwards.

The opening session was presided by Hafiz Essan Secunder Sahib, who advised Khuddam and Atfal about the importance of Salat; the theme of this year’s Ijtema.

Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya then delivered the welcome speech.

As usual, there were various educational and sports competitions for Khuddam and Atfal. This year, a bouncy castle was set up for Atfal along with other interesting activities.

For Khuddam, there was an extra competition of strong man, where Khuddam had to pass through six hurdles including lifting tractor tyres.

Khuddam and Atfal really enjoyed the competitions, Alhamdolillah.

In educational competitions, there was recitation of the Holy Quran, hifz-e-Quran, namaz, azan, nazm, qaseeda, speeches, translation of the Holy Quran, hadith and attributes of Allah.

Sports competitions for Khuddam included Cricket, Volleyball, Football and Tug of war.

Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium invited missionaries and Ansar members to friendly matches of volleyball and football with the Khuddam.

This year, the Alm-e-Inami was awarded to Majlis Muqami.

On the last session, Dr Idrees Ahmad Sahib, Amir Jamaat Belgium visited the Ijtema and appreciated efforts of Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya Belgium. Amir Sahib also distributed prizes along with Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium.

By the grace of Allah and through the prayers of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, the Ijtema was a great success. The total Khuddam participation was 186 while Atfal totaled to 121. A total of 64 guests also attended the Ijtema.

16

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

Extremism in the UK: Threats and challenges The Democracy Forum at Senate House, University of London

Ataul Fatir Tahir London

espite constant vows by world leaders D to “end” extremism, its spectrum continues to broaden. Right-wing attacks

now spread across America to New Zealand, stern governments exercise unjust control, world leaders are seeking to divide between “us” and “them” and extremist religious preachers are gaining support.

Understanding the causes and solutions to extremism remains a vital discussion and debate. The Democracy Forum, a nonprofit NGO aiming to promote ideals of democracy, pluralism and tolerance through public debate, held a seminar on Extremism

in the UK: A discussion of threats and challenges.

The seminar took place at the heart of London at Senate House, London University. The day consisted of two sessions where researchers, professors and lecturers detailed their studies on various elements of extremism in the UK. The whole event was duly chaired by Humphrey Hawksley, former BBC foreign correspondent.

Barry Gardiner MP, Shadow Secretary of State for International Trade welcomed those invited to the seminar and read out a message Lord Bruce had written for the forum attendees, as he could not attend

himself due illness.

His message encapsulated the threat of extremism and its causes, calling it a “parasite that feasts off fear and hatred”.

Next, Lord Bruce quoted Edward Said’s views (known as the cornerstone of post colonial studies) about modern fragmentation of knowledge on the internet and media that “our students” use. He was also quoted to have said how regrettable statecraft in Washington was, writing, “It is quite common to hear high officials speak of changing the map of the Middle East as if ancient society and myriad peoples can be shaken up like so many peanuts in a jar”.

Next, Humphrey Hawksley spoke of his own experiences as a BBC Asia correspondent. Recalling two occasions, he said that he once covered a massacre by the Sinhalese government of a Tamil village. The government justified the slaughter saying that if they had not done so, the Sinhalese people would have been taken over by the Tamil Tigers. On another occasion, he read a news report of a Sinhalese village massacred by the Tamil Tigers. Upon interviewing the Tamil Tiger representatives in London, the answers he received were similar, they said, “Don’t you understand we have to. We have to show them that they can’t massacre our villages and we won’t massacre theirs”.

Hawskley then mentioned a demonstration several years later by the Tamil representatives in London. He said that he observed the very man who he had interviewed, shoulder to shoulder with British MPs. Acknowledging the human rights concern of the MPs, Hawskley also noted that the MPs needed Tamil votes and funding for their election campaigns.

Hawksley opined that extremism develops when one feels the system does not work for them anymore and then the vested interests at work “will find those people who think the system does not work for them” and then make them into a militia force.

“Masculinity and the UK’s radical right” After these introductory observations, the first speaker to present her research was by a lecturer at the Cyber Threats Research Centre. The speaker’s identity was to be kept anonymous. The topic was “Masculinity and the UK’s radical right”.

Throughout this insightful talk, the speaker described the “culture” and “motives” behind supporters of populist groups like the English Defense League (EDL) and Britain First (BF), who oppose Islam. She explained how extremism amongst men stems from “toxic masculinity”, a term coined in the 1980s. It describes stereotypical norms of masculinity and manhood and the expectation from boys and men to be aggressive, tough, daring, dominant and have self-reliance. These traditional cultural masculine norms can be harmful to society at large.

The talk examined research suggesting members of the EDL and BF are often “angry, white, damaged and vulnerable” men who seek to protect themselves and use the “other” as a scapegoat. EDL demonstrations are noisy, vibrant and full of people who are “passionate about the problem of Islam”.

Right-wing members live in a niche of specific cultural traits and habits. Research indicates that 70% of British right-wing members have a football hooligan culture, assertion of ownership and a deep attachment to protect “their space”. Therefore, the loud and aggressive demonstrations allow them to express their emotion – a prime example of toxic masculinity.

The lecturer drew on right-wing extremism to also reflect the social psychology of men joining extremist religious group like Daesh. Though toxic masculinity serves as an essential piece in understanding extremist psychology, it is not all-inclusive and other factors play a role.

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM “Good news, bad news and agendas: extremist venues in the UK” The second talk was by Dr Paul Stott, research fellow at the Centre for the Response to Radicalisation and Terrorism, the Henry Jackson Society. The talk was titled, “Good news, bad news and agendas: extremist venues in the UK”.

Dr Stott described the rise and fall of radical Muslim preachers in the UK and their influence. Further, he detailed the kind of places that have bred extremist cultures and ideologies. Venues included: Mosques, Islamic centres, fitness centers, street stalls, tables outside mosques, book shops, university campuses, houses and madrasas.

The Muslim terrorists who carried out various attacks on British soil were found to be misled and radicalised in such venues.

These venues were also and to some extent still are, within their own bubble.

However now “visit my mosque day” events have enabled interaction with the wider Muslim community and the British public, Dr Stott noted.

Dr Paul Stott took his discussion a step further and spoke on the politicisation paradox between political figures and mosques. He said that mosques in the UK have now become key political players for political figures to gain votes and funding.

Mosques and organisations that have previously preached extremist ideologies were still used by politicians to gain support.

University campuses have been venues where radicalised actors may have met. Dr Stott explained how university lecturers will bar and discourage if people are from the right-wing. However, they are less comfortable doing so with Islamic actors.

Though universities have struggled with these issues they are better than they were, Dr Stott said.

Dr Stott mentioned the release of a book, The Qatar Papers that detailed very significant funding of Islamist terrorist groups and individuals across Europe by Qatar, including Britain. Articles about the findings appeared in most European countries, however, they nearly did not appear in the UK. He said it was in the public interest to know that funding comes from Qatar to the UK and then is sent to extremist groups around the world, however this was not reported. This, Dr Stott said was another example of how discussions have narrowed over the years about discussing radical trends.

“A strategic overview of the UK’s early post-9/11 counter-terrorism policy” The third talk of the first session was

by Dr Edgar Tembo, Assistant Professor of International Relations, Centre for Conflict, Security and Terrorism, University of Nottingham. His talk was to investigate the strategies and the effectiveness of the UK in reaction to 9/11.

He said that it is not easy for a government to develop a counter terrorism strategy as they need to find a balance between acceptability and effectiveness.

For example, do we have to accept a certain level of terrorism in order to “maintain the civil liberties and political rights that we cherish?” Or do we want to “sacrifice some democratic substance in order to be effective against terrorism?”

He said this problem was perhaps encapsulated by the Irish Republican Army

17 (IRA) statement after their failed attempt to assassinate Margret Thatcher. The IRA declared, “Today we were unlucky, but remember, we only have to be lucky once.

You will always have to be lucky.”

Dr Edgar Tembo then spoke of the United Kingdom’s counter terrorism strategy, CONTEST. He explained the positive and negative elements of this multi-layered strategy. The talk went into information sharing between security agencies within the UK and their problems while also speaking of the weaknesses of the Prevent strategy, a strand of CONTEST. Intelligence agencies can share more information with local police authorities, he explained. However, now law enforcement and intelligent agencies are now working much better.

“The importance of engaging with theology in countering violent extremism” Dr Usama Hassan, Head of Islamic Studies, Quilliam and gave a talk on tackling extremism through changing the theology of extremists. He spoke of case studies where Muslims have reverted away from extremist beliefs after they were taught the true teachings of Islam. He referred to a quote of Hazrat Alira, who said the following about the Khawarij (extremist Muslims who opposed Khilafat-e-Rashidah): “They are our brothers who have transgressed against us”. Dr Hassan said that Hazrat Alira would often use dialogue to convert the Khawarij back.

He detailed his childhood and how he was bought up with a large map on a wall of his house that showed Muslim countries. He said this made him think it was “Muslims versus the rest”. In a similar manner, other Muslims are bought up with such beliefs which lead them towards extremism.

Caliphate was discussed and Ibn Khaldoon’s and Ibn Taymiya’s views about the Caliphate being about “good governance” and that there was no problem in having multiple Islamic states were expressed. Dr Hassan said that extremists have other views and present Caliphate as a super-state ruled by a dictator.

“The problem begins at home: domestic cultural drivers and alienation of extremism” Prof Bill Durodie, Chair of risk and security in international relations, University of Bath spoke of his concerns about the lack of freedom when it comes to speaking about extremism. Prof Durodie said that people, in our current discourse, are “walking on eggshells” when engaging in their own beliefs regarding religion, politics and community. He said people have “paralyzed their views” for fear of “hurting others”.

Dr Durodie said that history teachers in France are afraid of saying certain things as it may hurt the Muslim students. He said that we are in an “age of bad faith”. Younger people are energetic, passionate and looking something to believe in, however it is our inability to provide them with something to believe in, the professor said.

Prof Durodie also criticised the policy of “Run, Hide and Tell” as an official response to an attack or terrorist event for the public, taught by the police. He said that such a teaching highlights the problem within our discourse. He emphasised that problems

Humanity First UK: Disaster Response Course

Masood Malik Director Disaster Relief Humanity First UK

azrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah H be his Helper, has regularly put an emphasis on members of the Jamaat

preparing for any disaster situation. In response to this Humanity First held a disaster response course on 31 August 2019 at Jamia Ahmadiyya UK. This was a course run by the Humanity First International team to train members of the UK fraction, with the aim of creating a team that can carry out a similar course for Khuddam and Ansar across the country.

This was a successful one-day event attended by 24 people, of which twenty two members were from the Humanity First UK Disaster Relief (DR) team.

The course started off with an introduction by Dr Aziz Hafiz, head of Humanity First International DR. In his talk, he said that “disaster relief has been around since the start of time” and spoke about the importance of showing emotion in humanitarian relief.

The resdt of the day covered the three main phases when managing an emergency: preparation, response and recovery. To give a perspective of the types of disaster responses within the UK the different levels of emergencies were described, ranging from significant to catastrophic. The response to each of those emergencies were should be openly talked about without care of hurting others.

“Extremist ecosystems: how do Islamists create power and influence?”

The final talk was under Chatham House Rules. The insightful talk detailed how extremist Muslim groups use Muslim television channels as platforms for support and funding. She explained that personalities who regularly appear on such channels have had direct links with promoting extremist ideologies.

The overall forum was certainly insightful and informative – a wealth of research was presented. Insights, through imperative data, into why and how extremist ideologies form gave the forum credibility and legitimacy

explained.

One of the sessions required teams to make an assessment of a response to a plane crash. They were taught that to make an assessment in any disaster situation one must consider safety, logistics, funding, medical response and business continuity.

It is also important to identify all the stakeholders involved.

Furthermore, trainees were told to get involved on a local level by joining the Local Resilience Forums, which are comprised of local organisations that support the response to any emergency. Apart from this there were sessions discussing mental health problems and everyone was trained in basic first aid.

To create an interactive course, disaster simulations were carried out at the start and end of the day. The trainees were able to provide a better response by the end due to applying the skills and knowledge they gained throughout the day.

One of the key themes in these simulations was safeguarding a disaster victim, which does not only include medical attention, but also safety and emotional support. In the closing session Dr Aziz Sahib praised the efforts of the team and reminded the attendees that they should forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve Allah the Almighty and gain His blessings.

May Allah enable us all to follow the instructions of our Khalifa and serve mankind to the best of our ability. Ameen.

However, Dr Hassan’s quotes about Caliphate being only “governance” did not resonate too well with me, as the spiritual element of Caliphate was totally ignored.

After all, the true understanding of Caliphate and its purpose was unveiled to the world at the advent of the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa.

Prof Durodie’s continuous assertive view of not caring about the sentiments of others seemed a bit obnoxious. Personally, I felt his opinion that society is “walking on eggshells” was exaggerated, as the media is saturated with hurtful discourse towards other groups; including anti-Islamic rhetoric. Not caring about the sentiments of others leads one to erase all lines of respect and honour. Yes, having open discussions is essential and vital but a sense of dignity and

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

18 100 Years Ago...

Ahmadiyya mission news The Review of Religions, October and November 1919

T

he future of Turkey, which forms the first article of this issue, has also been translated into Arabic by Syed Zain-ulAbideen Wali Ullah Shah for distribution in Egypt, Syria, Mesopotamia and other Muslim countries. The pamphlet is to be printed in Egypt.

The annual gathering of the Ahmadiyya community will Insha-Allah take place on the 26, 27, 28 and 29 December 1919. It is expected that there will be a gathering of Ahmadi ladies also, as usual.

Chaudhary Abul Hasham Khan M A, Assistant Inspector of schools Dacca Division, Bengal, has come to Qadian on long leave ans is nowadays engaged in translating Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’sra reply to Mr Muhammad Ali’s pamphlet entitled The “Split”.

Students from Ceylon, Mauritius and Nigeria are making satisfactory progress in their studies and we are glad to say that Mr Abdur Rahim Smith of Nigeria who arrived at Qadian on the 6th September 1919, can now express himself in Urdu fairly well.

England Our missionaries in England are actively engaged in their propagation work. They are receiving visitors daily who inquire from them about Islam and the Ahmadiyya Movement and we are glad to say that they are generally favourably impressed. These visitors are not only Englishmen, but also men and women coming from foreign countries. Lately, they had two visitors, a gentleman and a lady, from Brazil and

two from Italy. Among the visitors are also men from Arabia, Egypt and other Muslim countries. New converts also visit them as frequently as possible.

Lectures are delivered every Sunday at the Ahmadiyya Lecture Hall and many seekers after truth have begun to take a keen interest in Islam as represented by the Ahmadiyya Movement. Following is a list of the subjects on which our Missionaries have delivered lectures between 8 August to 8 October, 1919.

1. Are you Christian?

2. Love of God 3. Muhammad, the perfect ideal 4. Need of the Holy Quran 5. Islamic prayer 6. Word of God 7. Children of God 8. Prayer 9. The philosophy of sacrifice The above lectures were delivered in London. Lectures were also delivered at Hastings and Folkestone by Qazi Abdullah BA, BT, Chaudhary Fateh Muhammad Sayal MA and Mr Muhammad Sagar Chand, Bar-at-Law, some of the subjects they covered were, “certainly of faith”, “prayer”, “Islam” and “revelation”. These lectures are generally followed by a discussion.

Propagation work is also being conducted by distributing literature. A new pamphlet entitled “A Call to Truth” has been published and is being freely distributed. A curious incident took place

while our brother, Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, offered a copy to a number of old men sitting in a railway train. One of them had a short discussion with the learned Mufti, and was soon silenced.

Then another of the party remarked, “Do you not then believe in the Atonement?”.

“I cannot believe in it as you do,” replied the Mufti. “Oh! what is the use of talking with you then?” said the old man. Then the learned Mufti explained to him that it was vain to believe in Atonement and that it served no useful purpose at all. “You are doing harm to the world,” exclaimed the old gentleman and with these words, he tore up the pamphlet and threw it away. That act was well worthy of such a gentleman.

A good deal of propagation work is being done by means of correspondence which is carried on not only with persons living in England, but also with those living in foreign countries, such as Denmark, Norway, Honduras, Persia, Africa, America &c.

We thank God that the propagation work is making satisfactory progress and many persons have begun to feel great interest in Islam. There are said to be a large number of men who have become Muslims at heart, though they have not yet openly declared their faith. There are others who have declared their faith in the truth of the Holy Prophet (may peace and the blessings of God be upon him) and even in the truth of Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and have also adopted Muslim names but have not yet formally joined

the Ahmadiyya Movement by signing the form of Bai‘at (initiation into the Ahmadiyya movement).

Among these, may be mentioned the name of Miss Reynold who, during the period under report, declared her faith in the truth of the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas and was given the Muslim name of Saeedah.

The following is a list of the gentlemen and ladies who have embraced Islam and joined the Ahmadiyya movement during the period under report: 1. An Arab gentleman, named Abdullah Hasan, who is the proprietor of a hotel in London.

2. An Egyptian gentleman, named Hasan Gauhar.

3. An Indian student, named Ali Muhammad.

4. An English lady, whose Christian name was Lilion, embraced Islam in August last.

She knows something of Arabic and when she signed the Bai‘at form, she expressed her determination to remain true to her word and said, pointing to her lips, “my profession of faith is not from this,” – meaning, it is not merely a lip-profession, and then pointing to her heart, she said, “but it is from this,” i.e., “my faith is sincere and true”.

5. A British lady named Anne May who was given the Muslim name of Ayesha.

6. An Arab named Haji Ali Musa.

7. An Arab named Haji Hasan Ali. 8. George Samuel Bailey MD, who has been given the Muslim name of Ahmad.

9. Mr F William, who has been given the Muslim name Mahmud.

10. A Nigerian prince, Mr Thomas, who has been given the Muslim name Ahmad Ibrahim. Mr Thomas is the son of a Nigerian Muslim Chief. He had been Christian for some years but now, thanks to the efforts of our preachers in London, has re-embraced Islam and has become a member of the Ahmadiyya

26th Jalsa Salana Belgium Muhammad Arsalan Belgium Correspondent

he Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Belgium T held its 26 Jalsa Salana from 13 to 15 September 2019 at Brabanthall in Leuven. th

The Jalsa Salana started with the flag hoisting ceremony followed with an inspection by central representative, Abdul Majeeb Amir Sahib alongside Amir Sahib and Missionary in charge Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Belgium.

One of the highlights of our Jalsa was the exhibition that contained historical photography and unique information about Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Belgium. Interactive tablets were placed for the visitors to explore the archives of memorable pictures from the past. At the bookstall, a souvenir magazine

of the last 25 years was available for the members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Belgium.

On the second day, a tabligh event took place for the Dutch, French and Arabic speaking guests.

On the third day, a Bangla tarbiyyat program was held for our Bangla speaking Ahmadi members. Respected Ferooz Alam Sahib was the Markazi guest for this program.

In the afternoon, Jalsa Salana attendees were blessed with the opportunity to watch two live adresses by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa which he delivered to the National Ijtemas of Lajna Imailah UK and Ansarullah UK. With the collaboration of MTA International, MTA Studios Belgium was able to stream all three days of the Jalsa Salana proceedings live on YouTube. Alongside

the Belgian MTA team, the translation department also provided facility of translation in four languages: Dutch, French, English and Bangla.

On the last day of Jalsa Salana Belgium, two distinguished guests addressed the Jalsa. The first was Mr Fouad Ahidar, former Vice President of the Brussels parliament and acting Chancellor of the Dutch Community Council. The second speaker was a priest of a local church. Both appreciated the efforts of the Jamaat toward

establishing peace in society.

The total attendance of the Jalsa was 1489.

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM community. His coming in contact with our missionaries in England is, he says, in fulfilment of a vision which his father had seen years ago and which he had told him when he was yet a child.

11. An English lady named L Wilson, who has been given the Muslim name Fakhira.

12. A learned Jew of Russian descent named Solomon Faith. He had embraced Christianity and even acted as a Christian preacher. About three years ago, our brother Qazi Abdullah met him at Hyde Park and as a result of our brother’s preaching, his faith in Christianity was shaken and he gave up that faith. At last a vision led him to the acceptance of Islam. He saw himself on a rock and was in imminent danger of being drowned.

Just then he saw a holy figure clad in an eastern dress holding out his hand from another rock and beckoning him to lay hold of a rope. Having seen this dream he came to our missionaries at 4 star street and related to them his dream. They told him that the rope which could rescue him from the storm was the one spoken of in the Holy Quran as ‫“ ﺣبﻞ اللہ‬The rope of God”. Then they showed him a photo of the Promised Messiah, upon this he said, “this photo does bear resemblance to the holy man whom I he saw in the dream, but he was a different man.” Then they showed him the photo of Hazrat Mirza Bashirudin Mahmud Ahmad, son and second successor of the Promised Messiah and the present Head of the Ahmadiyya Community. At seeing this [photo] he declared, “this is indeed the photo of the holy man who stretched out his hand from the other rock and beckoned me to lay hold of the rope.” The dream had made him restless and he had in vain rummaged the pages of the Bible for some passage which might give him some consolation, but when he read in the Holy Quran the verse which says, “lay hold of the rope of Allah all together” and when he saw the actual image of the holy man who had beckoned him with his hand to lay hold of the rope, he was convinced of the truth

19 of Islam and signed the Bai‘at form which begins with the words, “Today I enter the Ahmadiyya Movement and repent of all my sins at the hand of Mahmud.”

He is a learned Jew and knows Hebrew, Yiddish, Russian, German, Lettish, Finnish, Flemish and English. He is now inspired with a zeal to preach the truth to other people. May God help him!

13. Mr W J Sarsh who has been given Yahya as his Muslim name.

14. A Scotch lady named Mrs S Roberts.

She has been named Majidah.

15. Yoosaf Ammad 16. Abdullah Ibrahim 17. Abdullah Adham 18. Ali Adam 19. Farih Abdulla 20. A. Muhammad 11. Muhammad Farih 22. Muhammad Ali The last named eight gentlemen who joined the Ahmadiyya Movement on the 5 October come from Arabia and Somaliland.

23. A respectable Englishman of good family whose name has not yet been disclosed.

Twenty-three converts in two months’ time is a good number and we congratulate our brethren in England on their success.

Of these twenty-three persons, four are British gentlemen, 4 are British ladies, 1 Russian Jew, 1 Nigerian, 1 Indian, 1 Egyptian and 11 Arabs and Somalis. It is also gratifying to learn that among this number, there is a Doctor of Medicine, a Jewish Scholar, a Nigerian prince, and the rest are also mostly educated and of good social position.

Some of the converts and even some Christians have begun to learn the Holy Quran. They have also begun to make weekly contributions to the mission funds.

Our brother, Mufti Muhammad Sadiq also acted as a political delegate of the Ahmadiyya community to represent the views of the community on the Indian

Cordoba Book Fair, Argentina

Marwan Ahmad Gill Argentina Correspondent

Argentina had the Jfirstamaat-e-Ahmadiyya opportunity to participate, for the very time, at the book fair of Cordoba,

Argentina. The book fair was held from 5 to 22 September 2019.

Cordoba is the second largest city in Argentina. By the grace of Allah, the book fair was a very successful platform to convey the true message of Islam to thousands of Argentinians.

More than 100 people left their contact details to stay in touch with the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Argentina and learn more about Islam.

Therefore, each month, Islam classes will be organised in the city of Cordoba for such people. Insha-Allah May Allah reward the eight local Argentinian Ahmadis who participated in the book fair as volunteers and conveyed the teachings of Islam to their fellow countrymen and explained about the advent of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him.

Reform Scheme before the Parliamentary Committee for Indian Reforms. His Memorandum on the Reform Scheme which he laid before the members of the Committee was published in our last issue.

English papers have published in their columns the substance of this memorandum with a photo of our brother and a brief account of the Ahmadiyya Community. While attending one of the sittings of the Committee in the House of Lords, our brother met Sir Michael O’Dwyer, late Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab, who happened to be sitting close to him. Without recognising the late Lieutenant Governor, he delivered his message to him and the latter listened to him with close attention and showed great respect for him. Afterwards our brother learnt that the gentleman to whom he had been preaching was Sir Michael O’Dwyer who had only recently come from the Punjab.

[The fact that] the people of London have now become well acquainted with the message which our brothers have gone there to deliver is clear from an incident which occurred on the day of the Victory Celebrations. Our brother Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, as a representative of a loyal community, thought it his duty to share with the Londoners their rejoicings at the victory and joined a victory procession with a green flag in his hand. His green turban soon attracted notice and a party of spectators who were watching the procession from a roof, in order to convey to him the pleasure they had felt by his presence in the procession, took a brass horn and sounded through it the words: “Allah is Great, and Muhammad is His Apostle” Our brother made a courteous acknowledgment and passed on with the procession.

Brother Qazi Abdullah who has worked as an Ahmadi preacher in England for about 4 years, and Mr Muhammad Sagar Chand who declared his faith in Islam not long ago and who has done good missionary work at Hastings and Folkestone have come back to India.

Brother Mufti Muhammad Sadiq will shortly proceed to another country to deliver the message of Ahmad to another people. May God grant him success!

We congratulate our esteemed brothers and friends, Qazi Abdullah and Mufti Muhammad Sadiq on the success with which, through God’s grace, their work in England has been crowned.

India Ahmadi preachers are working as usual in different parts of India. Meetings have also been held in different places and there have also been controversies with non-Ahmadi maulvis and others.

Propagation secretaries have also been appointed in a large number of towns and villages whose duty it will be to make arrangements for preaching through the members of the Ahmadiyya Community in their respective districts, to superintend the work of these honorary preachers, devise and carry out different plans for the dissemination of Ahmadiyya doctrine

and send regular reports of their work to the Secretary for propagation at Qadian.

Arrangements have also been made to establish Libraries and Reading-rooms in different towns.

Among honorary workers, the name of Seith Abdullah Allah Din of Sikandrabad deserves special mention. He is filled with great zeal for the propagation of the truth taught by the Ahmadiyya Community and has spent thousands of rupees in publishing and distributing Ahmadiyya literature. He has only recently succeeded in winning over a learned Imam of Sikandrabad whom he now wishes to employ as an Ahmadi preacher and has asked him to prepare himself for that purpose. It is gratifying to learn that many a seeker after truth has benefited by the literature published by our brother and Ahmadi preachers are making the best use of his publications. They are mostly English and Gujrati translations of the writings of the Promised Messiah.

Among those who have been led to the acceptance of truth by a perusal of Seith Abdulla’s publications, is the name of Sulaiman Ismail Jamoter of Cutch Jakhao, who is a big business man and is the owner of several vessels sailing to Bombay, Karachi, Malabar, Colombo, Arabia &c.

He is now a devoted adherent of the Ahmadiyya movement and proposes to hand over his whole business to his younger brother so that he may be able to devote himself wholly to the propagation of truth.

The records in the office of the Secretary to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih for propagation, show that since the 1 January 1919, 1640 new men have joined the Ahmadiyya Movement by entering into the Bai‘at of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih but the figures are not complete, as most of those who enter into the Bai‘at by coming to Qadian are not included in the above number. The above figure represents mostly those who send written applications for admission into the Ahmadiyya movement.

Ceylon The secretary of the Colombo Ahmadiyya Association reports: “Opposition to us has become very bitter again, owing to malicious letters appearing in a local non-Ahmadi paper and the continued preaching by a South Indian, thousands flocking to hear him.

He has preached in four centers and now last of all is expected in Slave Island. We are not afraid. Allah is our Helper.”

This bitterness of opposition on the part of the non-Ahmadi public of Ceylon and the activities of the South Indian preacher who is going about delivering lectures against the Ahmadiyya movement is a proof that our brethren there are working zealously to convey to their fellow-islanders the message of the Promised Messiah. Enemies of truth always do their worst to destroy heavenly movements and so are our opponents in Ceylon doing. But all their efforts are doomed to failure and we pray that God may help our brethren in the island and enable them to make Ceylon an Ahmadi Island.

20

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon Men of Excellence 6 September 2019 After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

n the previous sermon, I started to IUbadah relate accounts from the life of Hazrat bin Samit, however there ra

still remained some accounts and so, I will present some further accounts and incidents during his life.

It is written in historical accounts that when the Banu Qainuqa decided to wage war against the Muslims – on the orders of Abdullah bin Ubay – Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit, like Abdullah bin Ubay, was a confederate of the Banu Qainuqa.

However, owing to the impending battle, he distanced himself from the Banu Qainuqa and for the sake of God Almighty and His Prophetsa, he detached himself from being their confederate. It is stated that the following verse was then revealed:

َّ َ َ ْ ُ َ ْ ُ َّ َ َ ْ ُ َ ٰ َ ْ َّ َ ُّ َ ٰٓ ُ ‫آء بَ ْع ُض ُہ ْم اَ ْول َِی‬ َ ‫الن ٰص ٰٓرى اَ ْول َِی‬ ‫آء‬ ‫یایہا ال ِذین امنوا لا تت ِخذوا الیہود و‬ ّٰ َ ْ َ ْ ّٰ َّ ْ ُ ْ ٗ َّ َ ْ ُ ْ ّ ْ ُ َّ َ َ َّ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ َ‫الظ ِلمیْن‬ ْ َ َ ِ ‫ض ومن یتولہم ِمنکم ف ِانہ ِمنہم ِان اللہ لا یہ ِدی القوم‬ ٍ ‫بع‬ “O ye who believe! Take not the Jews and the Christians for friends. They are friends one to another. And whoso among you takes them for friends is indeed one of them. Verily, Allah guides not the unjust people.” [Ch.5: V.52] (Al-Isaba Fi Tamyeez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 3, p. 506, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2005) At this point, I will reiterate that this verse does not mean that one should not perform virtues deeds that would benefit the Jews or the Christians, nor does it mean that one must sever all ties with them. Rather, it means that one ought to avoid making friends with those Christians and Jews who are engaged in battle with the Muslims. In fact, God Almighty has explained in other place in the Holy Quran that He does not forbid for one to perform virtuous deeds or deal justly with those people who do not

wage war against Muslims or to those who do not exile the Muslims from their homes, irrespective of whether they are disbelievers, Jews or Christians. Just as God Almighty states: ُ ُ َ ُ َ َّ ُ ْ ّٰ ُ ٰ ْ َ ّ ‫الدیْ ِن َول َ ْم یُخ ِر ُجوْک ْم ِّم ْن‬ ِ ‫لا یَنہىک ُم الل ُہ َع ِن ال ِذیْ َن ل ْم یقا ِتلوْک ْم فِی‬ ُ َ َ ُ ّٰ َ ُٓ ُْ ْ ْ ْ ُ ‫ِدیَارِک ْم ا ْن تب َ ّر ْو ُہ ْم َوتق ِسطوْا ِال َ ْی ِہ ْم ِا ّن الل َہ یُ ِح ّب ال ُمق ِس ِطی َن‬

“Allah forbids you not, respecting those who have not fought against you on account of your religion, and who have not driven you forth from your homes, that you be kind to them and act equitably towards them; surely Allah loves those who are equitable.” [Ch.60: V.9] Thus, through the earlier verse, it has been made evidently clear that one should not forge relations with nonMuslims on the basis of any weakness, fear or cowardice. The real objective should be that one ought to have complete trust and reliance in Allah the Almighty

alone. Furthermore, if one improves their spiritual condition, then God Almighty shall grant His support. Unfortunately, these days we witness that Muslim governments fall in the laps of foreign powers and are fearful of them. The result of this is that owing to benefiting from their aid, one Muslim country is turning against the other and they are the very people who are destroying Islam from its roots. Nonetheless, we pray to God Almighty to enable these Muslim governments to see reason.

In any case, in relation to the incident that is being mentioned, which is the battle against the Banu Qainuqa that resulted in them being besieged after the battle and eventually they were defeated, there are further details about it found in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin. It references various historical sources and states regarding this incident that after their

defeat, the Banu Qainuqa were ordered to leave [Medina] and the details of this incident are as follows: “When the Battle of Badr had taken place and Allah the Exalted, out of His grace, granted a convincing victory to the Muslims, despite their being few and without means over a very fierce army of the Quraish, and the prominent leaders of Mecca were mixed to dust, the Jews of Medina went up in flames of jealousy.

They began to openly hurl stinging comments at the Muslims and publicly asserted in gatherings that, ‘So what if you have defeated the army of the Quraish.

Let Muhammad[sa] fight us and we shall demonstrate how wars are fought.’

“This escalated to such an extent that in one gathering they even uttered such words in the very presence of the Holy Prophetsa. As such, there is a narration that after the Battle of Badr, when the Holy Prophetsa returned to Medina, one day, he gathered the Jews and admonished them and whilst presenting his claim, invited them to Islam. The chieftains among the Jews responded to this peaceful and sympathetic address of the Holy Prophetsa in the following words: “‘O Muhammad[sa], it seems that you have perhaps become arrogant after killing a few Quraish. Those people were inexperienced in the art of war. If you were to fight us, you would come to know the real likes of warriors.’ The Jews did not rest upon a mere threat, rather, it seems as if they even began to hatch conspiracies to assassinate the Holy Prophetsa. There is a narration that in those days when a faithful Companion by the name of Talhara bin Barra was about to pass away, he bequeathed, ‘If I die at night, the Holy Prophetsa should not be notified about

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM my funeral prayer, lest a misfortune befalls the Holy Prophetsa at the hands of the Jews on my account.’ (i.e. lest the Holy Prophetsa comes at night to lead the funeral prayer and the Jews see it as an opportunity to attack) Therefore, after the Battle of Badr, the Jews openly began to fuel mischief, and among the Jews of Medina, since the Banu Qainuqa were the most powerful and bold, it was they who first began to breach the treaty. As such, historians write: “‘Among the Jews of Medina, the Banu Qainuqa were the first to break the treaty which had been settled between them and the Holy Prophetsa. After Badr, they began to rebel fiercely and openly expressed their rancour and malice and broke their treaty and agreement.’

“However, despite such events, under the guidance of their Master, the Muslims demonstrated patience in every way and did not allow themselves to take the lead in any respect. It is narrated in a Hadith that after the treaty which had been settled with the Jews, the Holy Prophetsa would even take special care to protect their sentiments.

“On one occasion, an argument broke out between a Muslim and a Jew. The Jew asserted the superiority of Mosesas above all the other Prophets. The Companion was angered by this and he dealt somewhat harshly with that person replying that the Holy Prophetsa was the most superior of all the Messengers. When the Holy Prophetsa was informed of this, he was displeased and rebuked the Companion saying, ‘It is not your task to go about speaking of the superiority of God’s Messengers in comparison to one another.’ Then, the Holy Prophetsa mentioned a partial superiority of Mosesas and consoled the Jew. However, despite this loving conduct of the Holy Prophetsa, the Jews continued to escalate in their mischief. Eventually, it was the Jews who created a cause for war and their heart-felt animosity could not be tamed. What happened was that one day, a Muslim lady went to the shop of a Jew in the market in order to purchase some goods. A few evil Jews, who were then sitting at the shop began to harass her in a most mischievous manner and even the shopkeeper himself committed the evil deed that while the lady was unaware, he attached the lower corner of her skirt to the mantle on her back with a thorn or something of that sort.”

(Perhaps there was a hook of some sort and he pinned it against that.) “As a result, when the lady stood up to leave due to their rude behaviour, the lower part of her body became exposed at which the Jewish shopkeeper and his accomplices burst out in laughter. Outraged, the Muslim lady screamed and appealed for help. It so happened that a Muslim was present nearby. He dashed to the scene and in a mutual altercation, the Jewish shopkeeper was killed. Upon this, the Muslim was showered with swords from all directions and this remarkably indignant Muslim was put to death. When the Muslims were informed of this event in national indignation, their eyes gorged with blood in rage. On the other hand, the Jews who

21 desired to make this incident an excuse to fight, congregated in the form of a crowd and a state of riot broke out.

When the Holy Prophetsa was informed of this, he gathered the chieftains of the Banu Qainuqa and explained that such behaviour was not appropriate and that they should refrain from such mischief and fear God. Instead of expressing disappointment or remorse and seeking forgiveness for what had happened, they responded with very refractory answers and boldly repeated their earlier threat that, ‘Do not become arrogant over your victory at Badr. When you are to fight us you shall come to know the real likes of warriors.’ Left with no other choice, the Holy Prophetsa set out towards the fortresses of the Banu Qainuqa with a force of Companions.” (When the Holy Prophetsa went to see the Jews with his companions, they ought to have shown remorse for their actions and extended a hand of peace, but instead they were ready to fight.) “Therefore, war was declared and the forces of Islam and Judaism came forth to battle one another.

“According to the custom of that era, a method of warfare was that one party would secure themselves within their fortresses and wait. The opposing force would besiege the fortress and whenever an opportunity presented itself, every now and then, attacks would be launched against one another. This would continue until the surrounding army would either lose hope in capturing the fortress and lift the siege, and this would be considered a victory to the ones besieged; or being unable to muster the strength to fend off the onslaught, the besieged force would open the gates of their fortress and hand themselves over to the victors. On this occasion, the Banu Qainuqa employed the same tactic, and closed themselves within their own fortresses. The Holy Prophetsa besieged them and this siege continued for fifteen days. Finally, when all the strength and arrogance of the Banu Qainuqa had been shattered, they opened the gates of their fortresses on the condition that though their wealth would belong to the Muslims, their lives and families would be spared. The Holy Prophetsa accepted this condition, even though according to Mosaic law, all of these people were liable to be put to death (according to the Mosaic law, they were liable to be put to death for their wrongdoings) and according to the initial agreement, the judgement of the Mosaic law should have been administered to them.

“However, since this was the first crime committed by this nation, as a first course of action, the merciful and forgiving disposition of the Holy Prophetsa could never be inclined towards an extreme punishment, which should only be imposed as a final remedy.

However, on the other hand, allowing such a treacherous and rebellious tribe to remain in Medina was no less than nurturing a snake in the grass, especially when a group of hypocrites from among the Aus and Khazraj was already present within Medina, and from the exterior as well, the opposition of the whole of Arabia

had greatly distressed the Muslims. In such circumstances, the only judgement which the Holy Prophetsa could pass was for the Banu Qainuqa to leave Medina.

In comparison to their crime and taking into account the circumstances of that era, this was a very mild punishment.

Furthermore, the purpose of this punishment was the security of Medina.”

(The main purpose of this was to ensure the safety of the Muslims of Medina.)

“Nonetheless, for the nomadic tribes of Arabia it was nothing out of the ordinary to move from one place to another, especially when a tribe did not own any properties in the form of land and orchards - and the Banu Qainuqa had none. The entire tribe was given the opportunity to leave one place and settle somewhere else, with great peace and security. As such, the Banu Qainuqa very peacefully left Medina and settled towards Syria. The Holy Prophetsa assigned the task of overseeing the necessary arrangements, etc. associated with their departure to a companion named Ubadahra bin Samit (the companion who is being mentioned) who was from among their confederates.

Ubadahra bin Samit escorted the Banu Qainuqa for a few manzils [ a day’s journey] and after safely sending them off, he returned. The spoils which were attained by the Muslims consisted only of weaponry and instruments of their profession.” Aside from this there was nothing more that the Muslims gained in the spoils. (Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 458-460) Some details in relation to this incident are also found in Sirat-ul-Halabiyyah. It states that the Holy Prophetsa commanded to expel and exile these Jews from Medina for good. The Holy Prophetsa entrusted Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit with the responsibility of exiling them and he gave the Jews respite for three days.

Subsequently, after three days, the Jews said farewell to Medina and left.

Prior to this, the Jews had requested Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit to extend the period of respite that they were granted.

However, Hazrat Ubadahra rejected this request stating that not a single minute of respite would be given to them.

Following this, Hazrat Ubadahra oversaw their exile and the Banu Qainuqa settled in the plains of a town in Syria. (Al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, p. 287, Bab Dhikr Maghaziyah, Ghazwah Banu Qainuqa, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) There are many other Ahadith [sayings of the Holy Prophetsa] which have been narrated by Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit. In one narration, Hazrat Ubadahra states: “Owing to the increasing engagements of the Holy Prophetsa, whenever someone from among the Muhajireen [Muslims who migrated from Mecca to Medina] presented himself before the Holy Prophetsa, he would entrust him to one of us in order to teach him the Holy Quran as well as religious knowledge.”

He further narrates, “On one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa assigned an individual to me. He stayed at my home and ate with me and my family and I taught him

the Holy Quran. When he was about to return home, he thought that since he had stayed with me and I had taught him the Holy Quran, therefore perhaps I had some rights over him. Hence, he gave me a bow as a present.” He further says, “It was of such exceptional quality that I had previously never seen a better bow and was made of excellent wood and was very soft.” Hazrat Ubadahra then says, “I presented myself before the Holy Prophetsa and asked, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! Such and such individual has granted me this bow as a gift. What is your guidance in relation to this?’ The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘What you are carrying between your shoulders is like a burning coal.’”

Meaning that the present he accepted was only given to him because he taught him the Holy Quran and thus it is was fire which he was carrying between his shoulders. (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 7, p. 563, Ubadahra bin Samit, Hadith 23146, Aalamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) There is another narration related by Hazrat Ubadahra as well in which he said: “I taught the Holy Quran to some individuals from among the Ahl-e-Suffa and I also taught them how to write.

Upon this, one of them sent me a bow as a present. In my heart I thought that this is not money, cash, gold, silver or any form of currency and so decided that I will use it to shoot arrows in the way of Allah. It is merely a bow and it will be useful to me to shoot arrows if the occasion of Jihad ever arises and will be used in the way of Allah.”

Nevertheless, he says, “I sought guidance from the Holy Prophetsa in relation to this. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘You may accept it if you wish to wear a chain made out of fire around your neck.’”

(Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitabul Tijaaraat, Baab Al-Ajr Ala Taleem-ul-Quran, Hadith 2157) That is, if he wished to have a chain made out of fire and placed around his neck, then he could accept it.

Both of these narrations are similar and have appeared in different sources.

The commentators [of Ahadith] have concluded from these narrations that the bow was given as remuneration for teaching the Holy Quran, however this practice was disliked by the Holy Prophetsa.

Therefore, this incident contains guidance for those people who teach the Holy Quran and use it as a source of personal income.

Hazrat Rashid bin Hubaish narrates that on one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa went to enquire about the health of Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit who was ill at the time. The Holy Prophetsa asked, “Do you know who from among my Ummah will be counted amongst the martyrs?”

At this, the Companionsra began to look at one another. Upon this, Hazrat Ubadahra asked for help so that he could sit upright and using support, he sat up and submitted, “O Messengersa of Allah!

You asked about who from among the Ummah, will be counted amongst the Martyrs? The ones who will be counted amongst the martyrs are those who only seek virtue as their reward and are subsequently martyred fighting bravely

22 and displaying steadfastness.” To this the Holy Prophetsa replied, “If it is left to this alone, then there will be very few martyrs among my Ummah.” The Holy Prophetsa then said, “The one who dies fighting in the cause of God Almighty is a martyr, the one who dies from the plague is a martyr”, that is, if there is an epidemic and a pious believer passes away due to it, then in that case he will be deemed as a martyr; “the one who drowns will be deemed as a martyr, the one who passes away due to an abdominal illness is a martyr.” The Holy Prophetsa then further said, “A woman who passes away in the state of nifaas, her child will take her straight into paradise.”

(Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 5, p.

492, Musnad Rashid bin Hubaish, Hadith 23146, Aalamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) The state of nifaas is when a woman passes away after childbirth due to excessive blood loss. The state of nifaas can last for up to forty days after childbirth and if owing to weakness or any other reason, a woman passes away during this period, the Holy Prophetsa has said that her child will be the reason for her entering paradise.

There is a narration in Sahih Bukhari, which is similar to the one I have just stated; Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said, “There are five types of martyrs: the one who dies from the plague, the one who passes away due to an abdominal illness, the one who drowns, the one who passes away by being crushed and the one who dies fighting in the cause of Allah.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jihad Wa Al-Sair, Hadith 2829) The Promised Messiahas was informed [by God Almighty] that the plague was sent down as a sign for him in that whosoever believed in him in the true sense would be saved from the effects of the plague. Thus, this particular case is a completely different matter altogether, however, if under normal circumstances there is an epidemic and a believer who has firm faith passes away as a result of it, then they will be deemed as a martyr.

Ismael bin Ubaid Ansari narrates that Hazrat Ubadahra once said to Hazrat Abu Hurairahra, “O Abu Hurairahra! You were not present at the time when the Holy Prophetsa took the pledge of allegiance from us on the basis that that we would always demonstrate obedience to him in times of increased activity or times of rest, and in times of hardship or ease; and that we will enjoin good and forbid evil in a way that we would not worry about the reproach of any critic. Then when the Holy Prophetsa migrated to Medina, we pledged allegiance to support and protect him with our lives as we would protect our wives and children. We pledged allegiance on all of these matters and in return, we were promised the tidings of paradise.

Thus, whosoever breaks this pledge that he made with the Holy Prophetsa, only causes harm to himself. Whosoever fulfils the pledge he made with the Holy Prophetsa, then God Almighty will fulfil His promise as vouchsafed to the Holy Prophetsa.”

On one occasion Hazrat Muawiyyara wrote a letter to Hazrat Uthman Ghanira

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM stating, “The people of Syria are creating unrest against me due to Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit Therefore, either call back Ubadahra bin Samit to you, or I will remove myself between him and Syria” i.e. he would leave Syria. Hazrat Uthmanra wrote back stating: “Provide transport for him and ensure that he reaches his home in Medina Munawwarah.” Hence, Hazrat Muawiyyara arranged for him to reach Medina. Hazrat Ubadahra went to visit Hazrat Uthmanra in his home and aside from one person, there was nobody present, meaning out of those who had met with the companions, Hazrat Ubadahra saw Hazrat Uthmanra seated in the corner of the room. Hazrat Uthmanra then turned to Hazrat Ubadahra and asked, “O Ubadahra bin Samit what is the matter between you and us?” Hazrat Ubadahra stood up and began addressing the people saying: “I heard the Holy Prophetsa say: ‘After me there will be certain leaders who will urge you to perform deeds that are displeasing to you, and they will dislike those deeds that are pleasing to you. Therefore, whoever is disobedient to God Almighty you should not follow him.

Thus, do not transgress the boundaries set by God Almighty.’” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 7, pp. 564-565, Musnad Ubadahra bin Samit, Hadith 23149-23150, Aalamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) There are certain matters regarding which there can be a difference of opinion between people, and between Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit and Hazrat Amir Muawiyyara, there were differences of opinions regarding certain matters. I mentioned in the previous sermon as well that there was a similar incident during the Khilafat of Hazrat Umarra. Since Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit was among the early companions, who had heard about matters directly from the Holy Prophetsa, therefore, he would firmly adhere to them and ensure others acted on them accordingly. During the Khilafat of Hazrat Umarra there was a difference of opinion between Hazrat Amir Muawiyyara and Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit. Hazrat Umarra instructed Hazrat Amir Muawiyyara that he was not to question Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit and to let him act on the matters as he deemed correct. Later, when Hazrat Ubadahra retuned to Medina [due to these differences], Hazrat Umarra sent him back. (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 18) However, in the time of Hazrat Uthmanra, when the issue arose again, Hazrat Uthmanra called Hazrat Ubadahra to Medina due to the conditions at the time. Nonetheless, Hazrat Ubadahra had a very high status and he was able to interpret certain matters because he had heard them directly from the Holy Prophetsa. For this reason, there was a difference of opinion in certain matters and he would voice his opinion.

For example, in matters of exchanging goods, bartering or in matters of trade.

This is a lengthy subject and there is not enough time to discuss it here, but it was relating to such matters that Hazrat Ubadahra and Hazrat Muawiyyara were in disagreement. Since Hazrat Ubadahra had sound arguments to prove his case,

therefore he would interpret matters accordingly, while at the same time Hazrat Ameer Muawiyyara held a different opinion about the same issues. However, it is not for everyone to voice disagreements, unless they have clear proof from the Holy Quran or Hadith. Moreover, in this era the Promised Messiahas has elucidated many issues. Nonetheless, the fundamental point to remember in all of this is that one should never cross the limits set by God Almighty and always remain within those prescribed limits. Thus, every Ahmadi ought to bear this in mind and demonstrate complete obedience.

Ata narrates, “I met Waleed, who was the son of a companion of the Holy Prophetsa named Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit and I asked him what his father, i.e.

Hazrat Ubadahra, advised him before he passed away. Waleed replied that he (i.e.

Hazrat Ubadahra) said: ‘O my son! Fear God Almighty and know full well that you can never become righteous until you have firm belief in Allah the Almighty, and also until you believe in the divine decree, whether good or bad. Therefore, if you die and believe something contrary to this, then you will be thrown into the fire.’”

Hazrat Anasra bin Malik narrates that the Holy Prophetsa would frequently visit the house of Hazrat Umme Haramra bint Milhan, who was the wife of Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit and she would present the Holy Prophetsa food. On one occasion when the Holy Prophetsa visited her home, she served him food and then began to groom his hair, at which the Holy Prophetsa fell asleep. A short while later, he woke up from his sleep and he was smiling. Hazrat Umme Haramra asked, “O Messengersa of Allah! Why were you smiling?” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “A few people from among my Ummah who had set out to fight in the way of God Almighty were brought before me.

They were sailing in the sea in a manner as if they were kings sitting on thrones, or he stated that they were like kings seated upon their thrones.” The narrator of the incident was unsure as to exactly which word the Holy Prophetsa had used.

Nonetheless, Hazrat Umme Haramra said to the Holy Prophetsa, “O Messengersa of Allah! Pray to God Almighty that I may be among those people.” The Holy Prophetsa then prayed for Hazrat Ummera Haram and then rested his head and fell asleep again. Again, he woke up and he was smiling. She asked again as to the reason why the Holy Prophetsa was smiling, to which the Holy Prophetsa said, “Some people from among my Ummah who had set out to fight in the way of Allah were presented before me.” The Holy Prophetsa then repeated what he mentioned earlier.

Hazrat Umme Haramra submitted to the Holy Prophetsa, “O Messengersa of Allah!

Pray that Allah the Almighty also enable me to be among those group of people.”

The Holy Prophetsa stated, “You already are included in the company of these people.” Subsequently, during the era of Muawiyyah bin Abi Sufyan, Hazrat Umme Haramra was part of a voyage and upon disembarking, she fell from

her mount and passed away. (Sahih alBukhari, Kitabul Jihad Wa Al-Sair, Hadith 2788-2789) The Holy Prophetsa would visit the house of Hazrat Umme Haramra because he had close familial ties with her. With regard to this, it is stated that Umme Haramra was the daughter of Milhan bin Khalid and belonged to the tribe of Banu Najjar. Umme Haram was the sister of Umme Sulaim, whose son was Hazrat Anasra, and thus she was his maternal aunt. Both Umme Haramra and Umme Sulaim were maternal aunts of the Holy Prophetsa, related to him either through a blood relation or foster relation. (AlIsti‘ab, Vol. 4, p. 1931, Dar-ul-Jeel, Beirut, 1992) Imam Nawawi writes that all the scholars unanimously agree that Umme Haramra had a close family relation with the Holy Prophetsa. Owing to this relation, the Holy Prophetsa would sometimes visit her house and take rest during the afternoons. However, there are varying opinions as regards the exact relation.

Everyone agrees that she was his close family relative, but there are different views as to exactly how they were related. (AlMinhaj Bi-Sharah Sahih Mulsim, Imam Nawawi, Kitab-ul-Amarah, Hadith no.

1912, Dar-e-Ibn Hazam, Beirut, 2002) In any case, they had close family relations in one way or another. Hazrat Umme Haramra accepted Islam at the blessed hand of the Holy Prophetsa. Later, during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthman Dhul-Noorainra, she left to take part in Jihad, along with her husband, Ubadahra bin Samit, who was a very prominent companion from among the Ansar (whose account is being mentioned) and she was martyred whilst reaching territory occupied by the Byzantines.

Thus, she attained the status of martyrdom according to the vision of the Holy Prophetsa.

In Umdatul Qari and Sharah Irshhaadul-Saari, which are commentaries of Bukhari, it is stated that Hazrat Umme Haramra passed away in 27-28 AH. According to some, she passed away during the rule of Amir Muawiyyara.

However, the earlier narration is more commonly known and has been quoted by the historians, which is that she passed away during a naval battle during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra. In reference to the “era of Muawiyya”, it does not refer to the rule of Hazrat Amir Muawiyyara, rather it refers to that period in history in which Hazrat Amir Muawiyyara fought a naval battle against the Byzantine Empire.

Hazrat Umme Haramra also took part in this with her husband, Ubadahra bin Samit and upon returning from the battle, she passed away during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra. (Umdatul Qari [Sharah Sahih al-Bukhari ] Vol. 14, p. 128, Dar Ihyaa alTurath al-Arabi, Beirut, 2003), (Irshhaadul-Saari [Sharah Sahih al-Bukhari], Vol. 5, p. 230, Dar-ul-fikr, Beirut, 2010) Junadah bin Abu Umaiyyah narrates that they visited Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit during his illness. They requested

Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM him to narrate a hadith which he had heard from the Holy Prophetsa, so that by doing so, God Almighty will grant him blessing. Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit stated that the Holy Prophetsa once called them and took their Bai‘at. The Holy Prophetsa took a pledge from them on the conditions that they will show complete obedience in all circumstances, whether it be in a state of happiness, sadness, poverty or affluence or even when the decision goes against their preferences. Moreover, they shall not dispute with the rulers in order to assume power for themselves, with the exception of manifest disbelief.

(Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Fitn, Hadith no. 7055-7066) In regards “with the exception of manifest disbelief ”, [i.e. when one can disagree] even then that is when it comes to a fundamental law of God, for which one has a clear and conclusive argument from God and also if one has the power or means to do so.

Sunabihir relates, “I visited Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit when he was close to his demise and I began to cry. Hazrat Ubadahra bin Samit told me to stop and enquired the reason for my crying. He then said, ‘By God, if I were to testify, I would certainly testify in your favour. If I were granted the permission to intercede, I will certainly intercede for you and if I had the strength to help you in any way, I would certainly do so.’ He then said, ‘By God, I have narrated to you all the hadith from the Holy Prophetsa which contain all that is good for you, except for one hadith, which I shall narrate to you today at a time when I am close to my demise. I heard the Holy Prophetsa state that whosever affirms that there is no God except Allah and Muhammadsa is the Messenger of Allah, will be safeguarded from the hellfire, in other words, such a person is a Muslim.’”

(Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Iman, Hadith no. 29) May God Almighty continue to elevate the status of the Companionsra, who have conveyed to us such knowledge which is not only beneficial to us spiritually but also in our practical lives as well.

I shall now mention some deceased members [of the Jamaat] and will also lead their funeral prayer.

The first is Saeed Suqiya Sahib from Syria. He passed away on 18 April, however the funeral prayer is being offered late since the news of his demise was not received until recently. َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

The deceased was among the very sincere and pioneer members of the Jamaat in Syria. He completed the first reading of the Holy Quran by the age of 5 and right from his childhood, he was extremely proficient and skilled in the rules for the correct pronunciation of the Holy Quran and also its recitation. He taught many Ahmadis the rules for the correct pronunciation of the Holy Quran [i.e. Tajweed]. Respected Munir-ul-Husni

23 Sahib had great trust in him.

The deceased acquired an education in law, however he did not like the field of law and instead pursued a career in teaching. He was considered among the top teachers in the country. He taught in various parts of the country and was promoted as headmaster.

The deceased had great passion for tabligh and would preach to everyone he met. A few years ago, when the Arabic Desk translated the books of the Promised Messiahas into Arabic and republished them, he stated that despite having been Ahmadi for such a long time, only now had he truly understood what the Promised Messiahas had stated and for the first time he understood the true essence of the Jamaat. He further stated that he was acquiring information all over again about the true Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Every acquaintance of his has mentioned his attributes of exhibiting high morals, dealing with others with kindness, generosity, confidence, considerate of other’s feelings and sentiments and to selflessly help others. In fact, every person who knew him mentioned these qualities of his and had great love for him because of this.

He remained occupied in his own work, very cheerful, a benevolent father and was a devoted husband. He had a very extensive social circle, very regular in his prayers and worship. Whenever he received any money, he would offer his Chanda first, and at times, he would donate the entire amount towards Chanda.

He leaves behind three sons and three daughters. His eldest son, Muhammad Sahib, and his youngest son, Jalal-ul-Din Sahib, are Ahmadis. May God Almighty grant him His mercy and forgiveness.

May He elevate His status and enable his progeny to become the recipient of his prayers. May God Almighty also enable the rest of his progeny to accept the truth.

The second funeral is of respected AlTayyab Al-Ubadi Sahib from Tunisia, who passed away on 26 June at the age of 70 َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

He was the only Ahmadi in his area and was extremely sincere and had great love for the Jamaat and Khilafat. He spent almost his entire life in the mosque. He was a true devotee of the Holy Quran and spent a lot of time occupied in the remembrance of God Almighty.

Upon learning about the Jamaat, he immediately travelled to its headquarters and did the Bai‘at. He had great love for the writings of the Promised Messiahas.

In order to attend the Friday Prayer, he would travel almost for five hours on train to offer his prayer in the headquarters. He was an extremely courageous person, and would introduce the Jamaat to whoever he met. He faced a lot of pressure from his family and locals but he remained firm in his belief.

He

openheartedly

contributed

towards Chanda, right from the moment he did the Bai‘at and when he learnt about the Nizam-e-Wasiyyat, he immediately became a part of it. He would always urge the youth to spend in the way of Allah the Almighty and would tell them that it was owing to spending in the way of God Almighty that his wealth was greatly blessed. The deceased also had the opportunity to perform the Hajj. He had great love for the Jamaat and Khilafat.

May God Almighty grant him His mercy and forgiveness and enable his progeny and dear ones to become the recipient of his prayers.

The third funeral is of respected Amatul Shukoor Sahiba, who was the eldest daughter of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh. She passed away on 3 September at the age of 79 َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

As I mentioned that she was the daughter of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh and she was the paternal granddaughter of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and the maternal granddaughter of Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahibara and Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan Sahibra.

She was born in April, 1940 in Qadian.

She acquired her primary education in Qadian and completed her BA from Lahore. She was married twice. Her first marriage was with Shahid Khan Sahib, who was the son of Nawab Abdullah Khan Sahib, she had two sons and three daughters from that marriage. One of her sons, Amir Ahmad Khan, is a Waqfe-Zindagi and is currently serving in Tahrik-e-Jadid. Two of her grandsons are currently studying in Jamia. Her second marriage was with Dr Mirza Laiq Sahib, however she did not have any children from that marriage.

Although she did not serve in any major office for the Jamaat, however she

generally had the opportunity to serve in various Jamaat departments of Lajna Imaillah. Everyone who has written about her has mentioned that she worked with great cooperation and humility. She had great interest in reading and writing and had written a biography on Hazrat Amma Janra and another book on Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahibara, the title of which is, Mubarka Ki Kahani, Mubarka Ki Zubani. Her third book is a biography on the wife of Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmad Sahibra, Hazrat Bu Zainab Sahibara. The manuscript of the book is complete but has not been published yet due to the current circumstances [in Pakistan].

These three books therefore are a great literary contribution for the Lajna. Her maternal granddaughter, Malahat, writes, “My grandmother would always tell us that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh would say that one should always smile for it is an act of charity. Therefore, I saw that even during the period of her final illness, she would always be smiling.”

She was suffering from a very painful illness and found out very late that it was cancer, however she bore this with great courage and patience.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh would also say that she would endure every difficulty with great patience.

May Allah the Almighty grant her His forgiveness and mercy and may He enable her children and future progeny to also remain attached with Khilafat and the Jamaat with a bond of true loyalty.

I would also like to mention that since the Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Ijtema is commencing from today, therefore the Asr prayer will be combined with the Friday Prayer.

(Originally published in Al-Fazl International on 27 September 2019, pp. 5-9. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

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Friday 4 October 2019 | AL HAKAM

27th Jalsa Salana France 4-6 October 2019 Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s faith-inspiring Friday Sermon and addresses • Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya and the construction of mosques • The high morals, qualities and example of the Holy Prophetsa during wars • The Promised Messiahas: The citadel of peace • To serve religion is a blessing and grace of God • Our duty to spread the teachings of Ahmadiyyat in the world • The philosophy behind purdah (modesty in Islam) • The root causes of Islamophobia in France • The life and example of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira • The institution of Majlis-e-Shura (consultative body) of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya • The root of all good is righteousness

Three days of a spiritual atmosphere • Tahajud and the five daily prayers in congregation • Dars of the Holy Quran and Hadith • Speeches on morality and spirituality • The Holy Quran exhibition and book stand displaying books about Islam • Faith inspiring speeches of new Ahmadis and their acceptance of Ahmadiyyat • An atmosphere of brotherhood

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2019