Al Hakam - 08 November 2019

Do Ahmadis celebrate Milad al-Nabi [birth of the Holy Prophet]?

Page 12

A

The perfect example for the whole world

The Holy Prophet’s favours upon women

A day in the life of the Holy Prophet

Original Urdu published in Al Fazl on 12 June 1928

Page 3

Page 13

Page 5

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 8 November 2019 | Issue LXXXVI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Prophet sa Muhammad : The raison d’être of the world “Each Ahmadi should pay great attention to prayers these days because due to its own mistakes, the world of Islam is suffering from most frightening circumstances. If we have true love and devotion for the Holy Prophetsa, then we should pray abundantly for the Ummah. We need to pay attention to this, which we are already in the process of. ”

The real way of supplicating and receiving blessings “However, today I wish to draw attention to the way in which we should pray. These ways and modes of praying are also taught to us by the Holy Prophetsa, which not only reform us, but also make us experience the acceptance of prayers.

“According to the Hadith, which is related by Hazrat Umarra bin Khattab, the Continued on page 2

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

Perfect and complete faith Hazrat Anas, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “None of you will have perfect and complete faith until he loves me more than his father, his children and all mankind.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words The second difference between the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Torah

The second difference is that the Torah has only addressed the Children of Israel and never had any concern for, or association with, any other nation.

This is the very reason that it has laid no emphasis on argumentation and evidence, because the Torah did not have in view any other denominations such as atheists, philosophers or Brahamos. Since the Quran considered every community and every nation, and since no further needs were to arise, the Quran provided sound argumentation to support its doctrines and practical injunctions. As such, the Quran states: َ ُّ ُ َ َ ْ ُ ْ ّ ُ ُ َُ ‫ِي� يغﻀوْا ِم ْن أ ْب َصارِ ِه ْم َویَ ْحفظوْا � ُر ْو َج ُه ْم‬ ‫قل ل ِلمؤ ِمن‬ Meaning, say to the believers, do not lustfully look at the private parts of others and also safeguard your other furuj or organs as well. It is necessary for a man to keep their gazes low, lest they succumb to temptation at the sight of a woman that is a non-mahram. Even the ears are implied by the word furuj, which may lead one to temptation by listening to ill-natured stories. This is why it is generally instructed that you ought to safeguard all your furuj or “openings” and keep them closed because: َ َْ َ ٰ ‫ذل ِك أز�ی ل َ ُه ْم‬ In other words, this is best for them and such practice bears the hallmarks of the highest level of purity, which if possessed shall keep you away from evildoers.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 84-85)

2

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

Holy Prophetsa said that prayer stops in between the earth and the heavens, and unless salutations and blessings are invoked on the Holy Prophetsa, no portion of the prayer reaches above [to be presented to Allah]. (Tirmadhi, Kitab-us-Salat, Babu ma Ja‘a fi Fadhlis-Salati ‘alan-Nabiyyi) “This is a reality about that which Allah the Exalted has also clearly explained to us in the Holy Quran, and that is in the verse I just recited:

ُّ ُ َ َ ْ َّ َ ُّ َ َ ّ َّ َ َ َ ُّ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ َ َ ّٰ َّ ‫ٓامنوْا َصلوْا‬ ‫إِن اللہ وملائِکتہ یصلون علی الن ِب ِي ۚ یا أیها ال ِذین‬ ً ‫َع َل ْی ِہ َو َس ِّل ُموا تَ ْس ِل‬ ‫یما‬

“‘Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! you also should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace.’” (Surah Al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.57) “In the Holy Quran, numerous commandments are given to follow.

Following them makes one dear to Allah, the recipient of His blessings, closer to Him, the recipient of protection from hell and of entry into paradise. The commandment here refers to a task, which is so tremendous and great that Allah the Exalted has engaged His angels to do the job, and He Himself also invokes blessings and salutations on His beloved Prophetsa.

“This is an act, by following which one would be following the task that is an act of Allah. When Allah the Exalted grants us immense rewards for abiding by His commandments, imagine the reward for following something that He Himself engages in. Most certainly, the Durood invoked with sincerity of the heart would be a source of the reformation of the Ummah, a source of protecting the Ummah from disgrace, a source of our own reformation, a means of acceptance of our prayers and also a basis of our protection from the evil of the Dajjal.”

(Taken from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa Friday Sermon delivered on 24 February 2006)

The Weekly Al Hakam

Articles on various topics now available for you to listen on the go Visit : www.soundcloud.com/ alhakamweekly

This Week in History Selection of brief incidents from the blessed eras of first and second Khilafat

8 - 14 November 8 November 1931: The Jamaat arranged a worldwide series of Jalsas with the aim of highlighting the holy life and character of the Prophet of Islam, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. On this date, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, may Allah be pleased with him, addressed such a Jalsa in Lahore.

8 November 1933: The Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was shown, in writing, a dream in the early hours of 3 May 1905: ‫گا۔‬ ‫آہ �در �ہ �ں ی‬ (Alas; where has Nadir Shah disappeared?)

This prophecy was fulfilled when in 1929, by the decree of Allah the Almighty, Amir Amanullah Khan, King of Afghanistan, was deposed by Habibullah Khan, commonly known as Bacha Saqa. The Afghans called Nadir Khan, who was then in France, for assistance. Nadir Khan came and Bacha Saqa was arrested and killed by him. Nadir Khan ascended the throne of Afghanistan. He dropped his traditional and national title of Khan and was called “Nadir Shah”. Later, on this date, a man named Abdul-Khaliq killed Nadir Shah in a large crowd in broad day light. The untimely and sudden death of Nadir Shah prompted many Afghans and others in the world to say, “Alas, where has Nadir Shah disappeared?”

8 November 1939: An eminent Turkish pilot, Saifuddin Bay visited Qadian. He was accompanied by Dr Muhammad Salim Bay, who was attached to the Turkish Army then. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra received these honourable guests and they had a chance to enjoy his blessed company.

8 November 1965: Owing to an assassination attempt and his restless and tiresome struggle for the Jamaat and nation, over the years, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra health continued a prolonged process of slow decline. On this date, at 2:20am, he passed away in Rabwah, Pakistan. On the same day, after Isha prayer, the electoral college held its proceedings and announced the election of Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad, may Allah have mercy on his soul, as Khalifatul Masih III. Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh led the funeral prayer the very next day at around 4:30pm, which was attended by thousands of members of the Jamaat.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh made a short speech, which was followed by the funeral prayer. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was buried in Bahishti Maqbara in Rabwah next to his mother, Hazrat Nusrat Jehan Begumra.

9 November 1936: Hazrat Haji Abdul Azizra, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away.

10 November 1936: Hazrat Baba Allah Ditara, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away.

10 November 1940: Hazrat Maulvi Fakharuddinra, a companion who pledged his obedience to the Promised Messiahas in 1898, passed away.

10 November 1953: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent a cordial message expressing sorrow and grief upon the demise of King Abdulaziz bin Saud, who passed away the day before on 9 November. He was the monarch and founder of Saudi Arabia.

11 November 1915: Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Hayy, son of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira, passed away.

11 November 1949: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra visited Sargodha, a city located to the north-west of Rabwah and at a distance of around 50 kilometres, upon the invitation of Malik Sahib Khan Noon, retired Deputy Commissioner. After delivering the Friday Sermon and leading Jumuah prayer, Huzoorra proceeded towards the Company Bagh to address a large crowd gathered to listen to him. Huzoor’sra two-hour long talk was listened to carefully.

12 November 1918: The whole of British India celebrated the horrific end of World War I. Qadian also participated in these celebrations. The Jamaat was worried due to the widespread carnage and inhumane acts committed during the war. To mark the event, the youth in Qadian arranged sports competitions.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra always thought of something meaningful and constructive, even when all others were busy in mere worldly euphoria. Huzoorra drew the attention of people towards the welfare of the orphans that the War produced. Huzoorra graciously bestowed a heavy donation of 5,000 rupees for the fund dedicated for the education and wellbeing of these children of Muslim combatants.

12 November 1931: Muslims living in Kashmir have a long history of suppression and persecution, with many chapters.

On this date, the Maharaja of Kashmir announced that from now on, Muslims living in Kashmir would also enjoy basic human rights.

12 November 1936: The High Court gave its verdict in favour of Ahmadis regarding a dispute of a mosque located in Koocha Chabuk Sawaran in Lahore.

13 November 1917: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled to Delhi to to assist the Muslims who were facing great difficulties in those days. Huzoorra also summoned some noteworthy members of the Jamaat to the capital. On 15 November, a delegation comprising of selected members of the Jamaat called on Mr Edwin Samuel Montago, who was serving as Secretary of State of India. Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Zafarulla Khanra presented him with an address on behalf of the delegation. The same evening, Mr Montago had an audience with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. On 26 November, Huzoorra returned to Qadian.

9 November 1939: Hazrat Baba Shabrat Alira, a companion of the Promised Messiahas from Bhaghalpur, passed away.

13 November 1925: In the aftermath of French bombardment of Damascus, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra strongly condemned this barbaric crime and also backed the idea of Syrian independence from the French mandate.

10 November 1931: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra attended a session of the Kashmir Committee to devise planning for the cause of Kashmir.

13 November 1947: Before the Partition of British India, the Jamaat was successfully running 18 educational institutes, half a dozen of them were established in Qadian itself. After Continued on page 10

3

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

The perfect example for the whole world Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira, the author of this article, was born in Sargodha on 24 November 1857. In 1897, he visited Qadian for the first time and this led to a deep and loving relationship with the Promised Messiahas. Later in life, he had the honour of serving as amir-e-muqami on multiple occasions when the Khalifa of the time would leave Qadian. He served the Jamaat in multiple capacities, including headmaster of Talim-ul-Islam High School, editor of The Review of Religions and nazir-e-ala. He is famous for translating the Holy Quran into English, a translation that is widely used even today. He passed away on 13 November 1947 and was buried in Rabwah. The original Urdu of this article was published in Al Fazl on 12 June 1928 Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira

ogically speaking, it is not possible for Ltermed a person to be deemed worthy of being the perfect example for the whole

world, until and unless they fit the following two criteria: 1. Their habits and practices during day and night should be well-documented for the world to see as well as the conditions surrounding their life and how they lived according to those circumstances. All these aspects should be available to us in clear terms. No aspect of their life should remain hidden from us.

The purpose of an example is for people to try and follow it. If we are not entirely familiar with someone’s example, then how can we possibly imagine emulating that person’s example in our day to day lives. To have a perfect example, it is necessary that a perfect picture of the person is portrayed.

Every aspect of their life – how they walked, talked, slept, ate, at night and during the day – should be presented before our eyes as a moving image. No aspect of their life should be hidden in the dark. Such a person cannot be a perfect example for us if the majority of their life, or a large chunk of their life, was kept in the dark and only a few years were shown to the world before they disappeared again; even if just a few years, then those years should reflect their life like a mirror.

2. Their life should have such experiences that every aspect of them should have the potential to serve as a complete example for us. For example, if the said person lived their life in celibacy, then they cannot serve as an example for those who are married.

What example can such a person show and of what benefit can their life be to those with spouses and children?

Similarly, if the said person lived their life in poverty and never presented an example as a wealthy person, then even though the impoverished may find an example in that person (provided that even in poverty the person presented an excellent example), but those who are not underprivileged cannot benefit from such an example.

If affluent people wish to find an example in how to live a wealthy life and how to spend in the way of orphans, the underprivileged and the needy, then such a person’s example will be of no benefit to them. Also, if such a person always experienced hardships at the hand of oppressors and never experienced

“Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model, for him who fears Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah much.”

Surah al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.22

A a period in which they had the upper hand over their enemies, then such a person can undoubtedly serve as a model in tolerating and enduring the difficulties of oppressors, but they cannot show an example in how to treat one’s enemies after rising to power and the treatment that should be extended to them.

The question would remain whether, in such circumstances, they should allow the fire of vengeance to burn the enemy or whether they should show generosity and proclaim: َْ ْ ُ َ ‫لَا تثرِیْ َب َعل ْیک ُم ال َیوْم‬ [No blame (shall lie) on you this day.]

Similarly, if a person always remained a subject and never had any authority, then they can provide a good or bad model for subjects, but those in authority cannot hope of seeing an example in such a person – neither in matters of ruling a state and administration of a dominion, nor in drafting laws, enforcing laws with justice and matters of politics, where relations between nations are concerned.

If a person kept to themselves and lived their life as such, never intermixing with the public, then the mystics and those solely focused on worshipping Allah may find a good model to follow, but those going about their day to day lives cannot hope to find an example in them.

Thus, for a person who is to present a perfect example for the world to follow, it is necessary to meet all the aforementioned criteria and they should have had the chance to show the perfect model in every sphere of life. Such a person should be able to show a perfect practical example in every avenue, every condition and all circumstances. For instance, if they never had wealth, then how

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org

can they show an example of generosity?

And if they never faced danger, then what example can they show of bravery?

These are the criteria that the person, who is to show the perfect example to the world, must meet. If a person falls short in any way in these criteria, then they cannot be considered a worthy perfect example for the world.

Now, I shall present some examples in contrast to other leaders of religions who are also presented as perfect role models for the world. Of these leaders, we only find one such person who perfectly fits the two criteria mentioned above. That person stands alone; he is the Prophet of Arabia, may my mother and father be sacrificed in his way and may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

Among the leaders of religions, he is the only pious soul whose life God filled with examples that met the aforementioned criteria and it is only his life that is clearly presented to us without even a fraction hidden in the veils of darkness. His entire life, from birth to death, has been preserved in history. Narrations to do with his childhood conduct and customs are before us and were collected by people who had the honour of spending day and night in his righteous company. Among such people are his close relatives and also are those who, albeit opposed his religious principles, attested to his pure ways; for example, sworn enemies such as Abu Jahl and Umayya bin Khalf.

His life, from his claim to prophethood until his demise, is so well-documented that its example cannot be found with regard to the lives of other prophets. His practices during daytime and his life after nightfall

have been covered in great detail. His daily schedule has been described so clearly as though we are able to witness it and live in that period of time, observing every moment.

The first criteria is seen in his life in an unparalleled manner. Then, just as the first criteria was fulfilled by him in an extraordinary fashion, in a miraculous way, the second criteria is also seen completed by him alone. The All-Knowing God, in His infinite wisdom and power, passed him through such revolutionary phases that in a short span of 23 years, he presented a perfect model in every sphere of life for all of mankind to follow. There is not a single human characteristic that he was not given the perfect opportunity to show the perfect example for.

When we observe his life from this angle, we see God’s magnificent ways. The Holy Quran is a miracle in that not only is it a miracle in itself, it possesses all divine facts and there is no religious fact that has been left out from it. In a similar vein, the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa life is so miraculous that in such short period of time, he left a pure and perfect example in every aspect of life for people of all walks of life to follow.

There is no faculty from human morality for which he did not present an excellent example at the most appropriate time.

Prophet Muhammadsa was born an orphan in a noble, yet poor family. In childhood, he possessed a sense of dignity.

At home, he would never even ask for food.

To survive, he felt no shame in manual labour work. In fact, he is reported to have once said that he would graze the goats of Mecca for money. He later started work in trade and became famous for his

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

4 honesty, integrity, clarity and loyalty. His environment was surrounded by idolworship, alcohol consumption, gambling and various other forms of moral vices, but he always kept away from all types of evils.

Among his countrymen, he became widely known as Sadiq and Ameen [truthful and trustworthy]. He would show compassion to his fellow beings, obedience and kindness to his elders and all forms of goodness. He was equipped with all positive attributes.

For 25 years, he remained single and spent this time in a chaste and modest way.

Thereafter, he married a 40-year-old widow and until the age of 50, he remained loyal to her. The way he conducted himself was so pure that pious people, upon hearing his claim to prophethood, immediately accepted him. Even the unfortunate people who did not accept him were compelled to admit that though they could not falsify his claim, they would not accept his religion.

After his claim to prophethood, he was bitterly opposed and he and his followers were grossly mistreated. Allah the Almighty extended this period of tribulations to 13 years. His uncle, who had helped him in times of great distress, and his wife, who was a source of comfort for him, both passed away. He had no apparent means of solace. God did this and extended this time of trials and tribulations so that his patience and fortitude may become manifest to the world.

Eventually, under divine command, he sought refuge in a distant land along with his followers. The enemy did not stop in pursuing him even there and stirred a great outcry against him in the whole of Arabia.

It was then that, despite being small in number and weak in apparent strength, he was given divine permission to challenge the enemy for protecting himself and the religion of Islam from the enemy. Despite being ill-equipped and numbering very little, he proved victorious over his enemy, rendering them broken and routed, even though they were greater in number and had more experienced fighters. Eventually, facing humiliation, they accepted defeat at his hands. In response, he openheartedly forgave their wrongs and, disregarding all their crimes and damages, embraced them as brothers.

Not only did he defeat the Quraish of Mecca, he also hailed over the enemy tribes in all of Arabia. He thus spread a centre of peace and freedom to the east, west, north and south.

The bravery with which he faced his enemy; the strategy through which he defeated them; the manner in which he transformed the land of beasts and animals to the centre of peace; the way he drafted a moral code for battle in how to treat the captives and the criteria for a truce; the nobility and courageousness he displayed when fighting in battle and the integrity he showed when he peacefully settled for truces; the honesty and decency with which he adhered to truces and the excellent standards he displayed when dealing with the defeated enemy were, and are, excellent examples for the most civilised of nations to follow, and shall remain so.

He left his dear city and settled in Medina, making it the Markaz. He called for a treaty with all the non-Muslim settlements on the principles of cooperation and religious freedom. Later, as fighting had

broken out with all tribes of Arabia, he had to strengthen the Markaz. After defeating some of the tribes nearby, he settled for peace with them. For the establishment of peace, he drew out some rules and regulations.

In this manner, gradually, Medina became the headquarters of the Islamic dominion, thus crowning him the king.

At that point, the circle of his works had expanded a great deal and so too did his relationships. His roles were vast – a religious leader, moral teacher, social reformer, as well as having to manage all aspects of politics as he was now the king, the commander in chief, the general. He had to devise laws and announce them publicly – he was the judge and the magistrate. He was the one who would complete political moves. As his dominion expanded, so too did his responsibilities, so much so that a time came when he had to deal with neighbouring governments.

Aside from all these responsibilities, his social interactions expanded. His responsibilities and engagements saw such expansion that to define them is an impossible task. But as history bears testimony, he served all these roles in the most beautiful manner. In every role, he showed such an example and laid down such principles that are perfect examples for all humans to follow.

Along with these departments, as his social interactions saw an increase, he had the opportunity to show perfect morals. He exemplified all his morals at the most apt time and in the most apt manner. He was the king but did not desire for any worldly pomp and ceremony, rather he preferred to live the simple life he was used to. He saw a lot of wealth come in, but never did he gather even a little for himself, rather he distributed all of that wealth for the benefit of the less privileged, widows and orphans.

For himself, he preferred the simple life of a dervish.

As the book that was revealed to him is perfect, so too was he as a human. As his teachings are perfect, so too is his practical example. In this manner, he exemplified the perfect teachings through practical steps. It was for this reason that an intellectual and righteous lady, who had the opportunity to observe him day and night, said regarding to him: ُْ ُ​ُ ُ َ َ ‫ان خلق ُہ الق ْرٓان‬ ‫ک‬ [His conduct was the Holy Quran (personified).]

As the Holy Quran bears perfect guidance for people of all walks of life, similarly, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa showed the perfect example for all types of people.

His life is a perfect example for children, adolescents, the elderly, underprivileged, affluent, subjects, rulers, dervishes, kings, religious leaders, social reformers, patriots, political leaders, devout worshippers, businessmen and women, singles, couples, army generals, soldiers, think tanks, leaders of nations, humanitarians, well-wishers, charity workers, policy makers, religious jurists, judges and magistrates.

Thus, his life was a complete and perfect example for people of all nations and of all eras. There is no moral excellence, the perfect example of which was not demonstrated in his lifetime.

100 Years Ago...

London letter Al Fazl, 1 November 1919

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

General conditions The weather has changed and winter has started. I have to wear an overcoat on land while on the sky, the illumined city is acquiring a habit of putting on a coat of clouds. However, the veins of the freezing cold English citizens are full of warmth and their blood is full of fervour. An extraordinary change is visible in every branch of life.

The prime minister tells us the good news of making a new world. Dr Clifford gives glad tidings of an age of affection and peace to the world in the United Nations Congress. But these people do not understand that it is impossible.

Certainly, it will not happen. Surely, it is not possible until the prince of peace does not gain a foothold with all his glory and unless the east and the west do not submit to Ahmadas, while singing the taranas [choral poems] of love. Indeed, this is the reason [behind the lack of peace]. This is the basis. Surely, this is the case. As right now, the following phenomenon is at work: ‫ئ‬ ‫� اک ززلہل ےس تخس شبنج ی‬ ‫ی� ب ی‬ ‫اھک� ےگ‬ ‫ک رجح اور ی‬ ‫کا احبر‬ ‫ک رجش اور ی ا‬ ‫ک رشب اور ی ا‬ ‫یا‬ [All of a sudden, through reoccurring earthquakes, they will shake vigorously; the people, trees, stones and seas.]

Earthquake in the world There is a major uproar in Europe and England that in the battle of capital income and wages, the first one should be openly defeated. A series of strikes are being carried out by workers belonging to every field of life. Even the entertainers are not lagging behind in this regard. Clerks and teachers are endeavouring as well.

In the current week, 50,000 engineers abandoned work and the Chairman of the Railway, Sir Thomas is threatening to drop a huge “bomb of strike.” Although, a truce has been made with Germany, but even now, the running waters in the hilly areas of the Caucasus Mountains (where it is said […] and some Turkish generals together with Tatars are engaged in a struggle against Armenia), and the plains of Russia, are turning red with the blood of dead men. A conflict has taken place between Italy and the Serbian Empire (which was established by the Coalition Emperors) on the dispute of Faiyum.

The Turkey General, Mustafa Kamal and his accomplices are in rage against their government on the matter of handing over a part of Turkey to Greece. Amir Faisal has arrived in London. The fate of Syria is to be decided after the heated debate between France and England. The

poor Cyrus is coming to London, whose places have been experiencing tumult for a long time. What more should I write! Everywhere, there is a state of an earthquake.

Peace message In the middle of this earthquake, flood and turmoil, we are conveying the message of that truthful who says: ‫ن‬ ‫وکیئ یتشک اب اچب یتکس ہ ی‬ ‫� اس ی‬ ‫س ےس‬ ِ ‫ح�یلے بس اجےت رےہ اک رضح‬ ‫ت وتّاب ےہ‬ [Not a single ship will be able to save [us] from this flood. All the preventive measures went in vein, leaving only God, the Accepter of Repentance, as the last resort.]

So, in the current week, on Sunday, I delivered a lecture on the subject of “Children of God.” A number of Jews, Christians, seekers of truth and liberals were present. After the lecture, an opportunity for questions and answers was presented. Brother Qazi Abdullah Sahib and an English new convert took part in the discussion which was held for well over an hour. Mr Sagar Chand and Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sahib MA are in Folkestone, while Mufti Sahib is in Southend-on-Sea and they are all engaged in the work of tabligh.

Muhammad Sagar Chand Members of the Jamaat have already heard by means of newspapers that Mr Sagar Chand Barrister has accepted Islam and that another 40 Englishmen have expressed faith in the truth of the Promised Messiahas through him.

Now, I have to convey some more information that brother Sagar Chand possesses an extreme passion for tabligh of Ahmadiyyat in his heart and out of strong emotions, I read out the poetry of the Promised Messiahas by exchanging the name “Nanak” with “Sagar,” then it would be an exact portrayal of the present state of brother Sagar Chand: ‫واہ رے زور دصاتق وخب دالھک یا� ارث‬ ‫گ اسرگ اثنر ی ن‬ ‫د� ادمح رس رسب‬ ‫وہ یا‬ [How wonderful the fruit is that the power of truth has borne! Sagar has taken Ahmad’s faith completely to heart.]

After conveying the message of truth in Hastings (where people attested to the truth of the subject matter of his speeches and expressed compassion for Ahmadiyyat), he [Sagar Chand Sahib] is engaged in tabligh along with Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayal in Folkestone through lectures and individual meetings.

Good news, but we are heedful Owing to the directions of Khilafat, and bearing in mind farsightedness and due

5

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM care, neither do we declare the figure of that party which has accepted the truth in their hearts (which include very brilliant minds), nor do we call those people Ahmadis who attest to the truth, express compassion and are Ahmadis at heart and even call themselves Ahmadis by word of mouth, until they formally study the conditions of Bai‘at and place their signature on the request of Bai‘at.

However, congratulations are due to the members of Jamaat that in various places …, a number of people have actually accepted the truth at heart and express compassion in reality, but we are waiting for the right moment to make formal announcements. The members of the Jamaat are requested to pray.

An open good news By the sheer blessings and only through the inspiration of Allah Almighty, we announce that a British scholar of Russian descent has entered the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. He has converted and has been named Muhammad Suleiman, originally coming from the Solomon faith.

Alhamdolillah!

A day in the life of the Holy Prophet We all know that our holy master, Hazrat Muhammad al-Mustafasa led an extremely busy life. A great part of his time was taken up by expeditions carried out for the defence of Islam. Devising strategies for these defensive battles required a great deal of physical and mental strength, as well as time. Below is an account of what a normal day of the Holy Prophetsa would be like when at peace

Seerat-un-Nabi Jalsa, Kano

t is said that the king of Persia – a Idivided contemporary of the Holy Prophet - had his days in the following manner: sa

Raja Ather Qudoos Missionary, Nigeria

privilege of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Ipeacetthatis itaandcelebrates the life of Holy Prophet, blessings be upon him, by

conducting Seerat-un-Nabi seminars across the globe. This is not limited to any day or a month, rather the Jamaat honours the great life of the Holy Prophetsa throughout the whole year.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kano had the blessing to conduct Seerat-un-Nabi seminar on 20 October 2019.

The keynote speaker was missionary in charge, Afzal Ahmad Rauf Sahib. Three other speeches were also delivered. All the speakers highlighted different aspects from the holy life of the Holy Prophetsa. The keynote speaker reminded the congregation to act upon the example of the Holy Prophetsa and that we must endeavour to follow the footsteps of our beloved master.

Non-Ahmadi Muslim guests also attended the seminar and representatives from three radio stations were also there to cover this seminar. A question and answer session was held at the end of this seminar.

A total of 137 people, including ladies and children, attended this seminar. After the closing prayer, refreshments were distributed to the attendees.

The days of spring were set aside for rest and sleep; overcast days were for hunting; rainy days were reserved for drinking, partying and enjoyment; and when the day was bright and clear, the king would hold his court and hear public grievances.

Such indeed are the days of the worldly people who have no thought for the Hereafter. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, on the other hand, had permanently divided his day into three parts, regardless of the conditions. One part of the day was set aside for worship, the second for his family and the third for his own personal needs. Most of the time that he reserved for himself was again allocated for the service of mankind.

(Ash-Shifa‘ by Qadi‘Ayad, Vol. 1, p. 174, Darul-Kitab Al-‘Arabi) The 13 years which the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa spent in Mecca after the proclamation of Prophethood, were spent in receiving the revelation of the Holy Quran, preaching, teaching, training of converts and enduring a long period of trials and hardships.

The details of this period are rather sketchy, but, on the other hand, there are countless traditions which shed light on the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa life in Medina, and from these, we are able to construct a sketch of the way he spent his life in Mecca.

According to traditions, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa started his day with

predawn Tahajud prayer. Before the prayer, he would perform ablution, clean his teeth with miswak (a piece of tree-branch used for this purpose), and wash his mouth thoroughly. He would then stand up and offer a long and beautiful Tahajud prayer, in which he would recite long chapters of the Holy Quran. These prayers would be so long that his feet would begin to swell. He would then rest for a while. After this if anyone of his family was awake at the time, he would talk to them, otherwise he would continue to rest for a little longer.

As soon as Bilal’sra call for prayer reached his ears, he would promptly rise up and offer two short rak‘ats of Sunnah, and then proceed to lead the Fajr prayer in the mosque.

If he ever missed the Tahajud prayer due to illness, he would offer nawafil during the day (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Tahajud).

After Fajr prayer, the Holy Prophetsa would enquire after his Companionsra and sit with them till sunrise. Sometimes they would talk about the time before Islam. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would ask if anyone had had a dream. He would be pleased if the dream was good and would interpret it. Sometimes he would even relate his own dreams. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Ta‘bir-ulRu‘ya; Sunan Abu Daud, Kitab-ul-Adab; Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Masajid, Bab FadlilJulus fis-Salat) The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would plan his day in the morning. If he did not see someone in the mosque for two or three days, he would be concerned and enquire

about them. If the person was on a journey, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would pray for them, and if they were in town or were ill, he would pay them a visit. (Kanz-ulUmmal, Vol. 7, p. 153) The Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa company was an ideal source for the edification and training of the Companionsra.

Early in the morning, children would bring containers filled with water to him. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would bless the water by dipping his fingers in it. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Fadhail, Bab QurbinNabisa minan-Nas) After concluding his public duties, he would go home and ask if there was anything to eat. If there was any food, he would eat and if there was nothing, he would say, “Alright, let us fast today.”(Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab-us-Saum) Worldly rulers and noblemen are known to delegate their duties to their ministers and indulge in their own pleasures, but this was not the way of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. He would himself lead the five daily prayers as well as the Friday and Eid prayers. He would help his wives with household chores and never considered it below his dignity to work with his own hands.

Like an ordinary person, he would sew and patch his own clothes, repair his shoes, sweep the house, look after the livestock and milk them; helping the servants if they were tired (Musnad Ahmad, Vol. 6, p. 121; Usdul-Ghabah, Vol. 1, p. 29). He himself would brand the cattle of the treasury (Baitul-Mal). He would look after the neighbours and milk their goats for them. (Musnad Ahmad, Vol. 5, p. 111) One of the most important and delicate tasks the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa had to perform was the safeguarding of the revelation of the Holy Quran. Most of his time was reserved for this purpose.

Whether he received a revelation in his house or during some meeting, he always experienced a peculiar feeling since the task was an onerous one and he would perspire profusely. He would immediately call the scribe to record the revelation in writing. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Bada-ul-Wahi wa Fadhail-ul-Quran) Memorising the revelation, revising it for recitation in Salat and pondering over its meanings was yet another demanding task the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa had to perform.

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

6

Eloquent humour: A less mentioned quality of the Holy Prophet

rue happiness and affluence lies in T a person’s contact with God and his resignation to the will of God. Such a person

who enjoys a perfect relatioshipn with God is granted the status of Nafs-e-Mutma‘innah (the soul at rest). By showing steadfastness in faith and actions, such people hear the comforting voice of the angels; “Fear ye not, nor grieve; and rejoice in the Garden that you were promised.”(Ch.41: V.31) This world becomes a paradise for such believers. A succession of divine tidings is revealed to them and they have perfect belief in them. They are justifiably happy at the blessings and mercy of God and this is what God enjoins on them.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa used to say, “A true believer is in a unique position.

Whenever he suffers affliction, he gladly endures it and is rewarded by Allah. And when he receives goodness, he is grateful and is a recipient of reward from Allah.”

This shows that a true believer is happy in every situation and is pleased with his Creator. In this respect, this true feeling of happiness and pleasant nature is not only indicative of his mental and physical health, but also becomes a sign of his faith. Who else can be at a higher status of gaining Allah’s pleasure than the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa?

He was always smiling. He advised his companionsra not to consider any good deed as meagre, even though it may only be a smile and pleasantness towards a brother.

(Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Adab) The companionsra describe the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa as the most smiling one amongst the people and having the best temperament.

Hazrat Jabirra relates, “When the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa used to receive a revelation or delivered a sermon, he would look as a warner for the people who were

going to be punished, otherwise his general appearance was that of the most beautiful person, with a smiling face.” (Majma-uzZawaid, Vol. 9, p. 17) Hazrat Aishara relates that the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa had a humorous nature and would always be smiling and cheerful in the house. (Sharah Mawahibul Ludunya, vol.4, p.253) The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa had a subtle sense of humour. His jokes were clean and true. He used to say that he did not lie even while telling jokes. (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab-ul-Bir wa al-Silah) Hazrat Aishara reports, “The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was very witty and used to say that Allah is not displeased with a person of true wit. (Jami‘-ul-Kabir, p. 142) His companions relate that the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa used to sit in their gatherings and it never happened that they were sitting and enjoying themselves and he would talk about some sad or dull matter.

He would sit with them, laugh and tell jokes and listen to their humorous stories.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Fadhail) Hazrat Jabirra bin Samurah relates, “I had the opportunity of benefiting from attending more than a hundred meetings with the Prophetsa. The Companions used to recite good quality verses of poetry and also talk of various matters from the days of darkness – the times before the advent of Islam. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa used to listen to all this quietly and, at times, would smile while listening to them. (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab-ul-Adab) Hazrat Zaidra bin Thabit relates that they used to talk about worldly things. The Prophetsa would occasionally join in. He would even participate in talks about food and other matters of day to day life. (Dalailun-Nubuwwah, Vol. 1, p. 324) Someone enquired of Hazrat Abbasra about the nature of the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa jokes. He gave the example that once, Huzoorsa covered one of his wives with a shawl and told her to praise and glorify Allah and walk like brides with a trailing dress. (Kanz-ul-Ummal, Vol. 4, p.

43) One distinctive feature of the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa humour was that he used to say ordinary routine things in such a manner that it would become humorous.

For example, it is normal for every person to have two ears. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would lovingly call his servant Anas, “O the one with two ears, come here.”

It created the humour of a superb quality.

(Shama‘il al-Tirmidhi) The subtle aspect of this humour was that the obedient servant, Anasra, used to be all ears to answer his master’s call. Similarly, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa once called

a tall person “Dhul-Yadain”, meaning the one with long hands.

Once, a companion came to the Holy Prophetsa and requested a she-camel for travelling. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa said, “I only have a baby she-camel.” The companion entreated as to what good a baby camel would be for him. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa replied, “Isn’t every camel the baby of a she-camel?” He then gave a camel to him. (Abu Daud, Kitab-ul-Adab) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra, the attendant of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa relates that Huzoorsa would talk to children in a humorous and lovingly informal manner.

(Dalailun-Nubuwwah, Vol. 1, p. 331) Hazrat Safinahra relates, “We were accompanying Huzoorsa on a journey.

Whenever any fellow traveller got tired, he would give his sword, shield or spear to me to carry and I ended up with a heavy load. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was watching this. He said, “You are truly a safinah (boat). You are carrying everyone’s load.” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 5, p. 221) Once, an old lady came to see the Prophetsa. He told her, “Old women will not be in paradise.” This made her sad and she started to cry. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, comforting her, explained, “You shall be admitted to paradise as a young lady”, meaning that she would not be old in paradise. This cheered up the lady.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa recited the verse of Surah al-Waqi‘ah, which says, “We have made the women of paradise young and virgins.” (Shamail al-Tirmidhi) The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, with his quick awareness, would say something witty in ordinary talk. Abu Rimthah, accompanied by his father, came to see the Holy Prophetsa. By way of introduction, the Prophetsa asked his father if this was his son?

The emphasis was on “this”. In his simplicity, his father understood it as if Hazrat Muhammadsa was asking, if he was really his son? His father replied, “I take oath in the Lord of the Ka‘bah, that he is my son”. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa understood his misunderstanding, but in way of humour asked, “Is it a confirmed fact?” His father became even more serious and said, “O Prophet of Allah, I firmly swear and can say that he really is my son.” The Holy Prophetsa was greatly amused and laughed at this response. The oaths taken by Abu Rimthah’s father especially amused Huzoorsa a great deal as the resemblance between the father and the son was so great that no one could have entertained any doubt. (Sunan Abu Daud, Kitab-ul-Diyat) The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would say humorous things to children and kept them close to himself. Once, he visited his attendant Anas’ra house and found his younger brother looking a bit sad. Upon asking the reason, Huzoorsa was told that his pet starling had died. From then on, whenever Huzoorsa visited them, he would lovingly joke calling him by his patronymic name and say, “O Abu Umair, tell me about your starling.”

Hazrat Mahmudra bin Rabi fondly recalled one such humorous event of his childhood. He said, “Once, when I was five years of age, the Prophetsa came to our house, drank water from the well and, in a playful manner, squirted water with his mouth in my direction. (Sahih al-Bukhari,

7

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Kitab-ul-Ilm) Another companion relates, “I was quite young when my father took me to see the Holy Prophetsa. There was a raised part of flesh of the size of a pigeon’s eggs between the shoulders of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Old scriptures had it as the “Seal of Prophethood” – a physical, recognisable sign of prophethood. I saw that part of the flesh and started to play with it.

My father scolded me but Huzoorsa said, “Let him play, he is only a child. No need to reproach him.”

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa encouraged his Companions’ sense of humour. They knew that Huzoorsa would enjoy the lightheartedness and would not be cross at them.

Aufra bin Malik relates, “During the Battle of Tabuk, I went to see Huzoorsa who was staying in a small leather tent. I greeted him and he invited me in. Realising the small size of the tent, I jokingly said, “Should I bring my whole body in?” The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa enjoyed the joke and said, “Yes, bring your whole body in the tent.”

(Sunan Abu Daud, Kitab-ul-Adab) Hazrat Suhaibra once went to see Huzoorsa and found some bread and dates placed before him. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa invited Suhaibra to have some.

Suhaibra started to eat more dates than the bread. Huzoorsa, noticing the swelling in one of his eyes, remarked about his sore eye. The purpose of this remark was that he should be careful in eating dates in case as it could aggravate his sore eye. Suhaib replied, “Huzoor, I am eating from the side of my healthy eye.” The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was much amused by his wit and smiled at his companion’s repartee.

(Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 4, p. 61) With his light humour, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa would draw attention to the matters of training of his companionsra.

Hazrat Khawwatra bin Jubair related, “Once, during a journey, we encamped at MaruzZahran. I came out of my tent and saw some women sitting on one side and talking. I went back to my tent, put on a silk robe and went and sat near them. In the meantime, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa came out of his tent and asked me, ‘O Abu Abdullah, why are you sitting near the ladies?’ I became nervous and made an excuse, ‘O Messenger of Allah, my camel tends to wander off; I am looking for a string to tie it with.’

“The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa went away to perform ablution and returned.

He teasingly asked me, ‘So, Abu Abdullah, what were you saying about your wandering camel?’”

Khawwatra says that he was ashamed of his excuse. He further relates, “We departed from that camp, but whenever we encamped, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, whenever he saw me, would say, “Assalamo Alaikum, O Abu Abdullah; how is your wandering camel?”

“At last”, says Khawwatra, “we reached Medina. Now I started to avoid the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and miss his meetings. One day, I found a time when the mosque was empty and started to offer Salat. In the meantime, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa came and started his Salat.

He offered two short Rak‘ats and sat, as if waiting for me. I prolonged my prayer hoping that Huzoorsa would leave. The Holy Prophetsa surmised this and said, ‘O Abu

Abdullah, you may prolong your Salat as much as you like, but I will not leave before you finish.’

“I thought to myself, ‘By God, today I will have to apologise to the Prophetsa.’

“As soon as I finished Salat, the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa said, ‘O Abu Abdullah, tell me more about your wandering camel!’”

“I entreated, ‘O Messenger of Allah, I take oath in the name of the One, Who has sent you with truth, that my camel has never wandered off.’

“The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa said, ‘May Allah have mercy on you.’ He blessed me two or three times with this prayer. Afterwards, he never joked with me regarding this incident.” (Mu‘jam-ul-Kabir, Vol. 4, p. 243) We conclude with an interesting humorous event which amused the companionsra for a whole year. Hazrat

Umm-e-Salamara relates that a year before the death of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, Hazrat Abu Bakrra went to Basra for trade.

He was accompanied by Nuaimanra and Suwaibatra, both of whom had the honour of participating in the Battle of Badr.

Nuaimanra had the duty of preparing food. Suwaibatra was very intelligent and a humorous person. During the journey, he asked Nuaimanra for food. Nuaimanra said that food will only be served when Hazrat Abu Bakrra returns to the camp. After a little while, a caravan passed from near by.

Suwaibatra asked the people of the caravan if they were interested in buying a slave. They readily showed their interest.

Suwaibatra told them that there was only one defect in that slave that when someone tried to buy him, he would start to cry that he was not a slave, but a free man. Suwaibatra made it clear that they should not leave him whatsoever, once the deal was made.

The people of the caravan agreed and showed their willingness to buy the slave.

So, he sold Nuaimanra in exchange for ten camels. When these people came to collect their newly bought slave and tried to put a collar around his neck, he started saying that Suwaibatra was joking and that he was not a slave, but a free man. The people of the caravan ignored his pleas and dragged him along and took him away. Once they were gone, Suwaibatra sat down and peacefully ate the meal.

When Hazrat Abu Bakrra returned and came to know the story, he ran after the caravan, gave back their ten camels and brought Nuaimanra back.

On his return from the journey, Hazrat Abu Bakrra related this story to the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, who was greatly amused and enjoyed the incident. (Sunan Ibn-e-Majah, Kitab-ul-Adab)

Regional Jalsa of Banten, Indonesia Hafizur Rahman Indonesia Correspondent

t was a bright clear day, with more IAhmadiyyat than 2,000 participants, when Liwa-ewas hoisted on 25 October

2019 in front of our mosque, Al-Rahmat in Peninggilan, Banten. This marked the beginning of the Regional Jalsa in Banten, Indonesia.

After the Jumuah prayer, National Amir Sahib led the opening session and addressed the members present.

A series of beautiful and faith-inspiring addresses were delivered for three days, including promoting the true Islam, a perfect

belief in the Promised Messiah, Indonesian strategic projects, moral training in family, means of attaining the nearness to God, the noblest example of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) on how to give advice, 130 years of Ahmadiyyat, Nizam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and its blessings, the importance of financial sacrifice, true meaning of devotion of life, Quranic gladtidings, and miracles and truth of the Promised Messiahas.

Some external guests also had the opportunity to speak on the podium, among of whom were head of Research and Development Centre for Research and

Training of the Ministry of Religion of the Republic of Indonesia, presidential chief of staff, chief of GP Anshor of Tangerang, chief of Pokdarkamtibmas (a group that is aware of community security and order), regional chief of Indonesian Ulema Council in edict board in South Tangerang and Director General of Human Rights.

On the third day, 27 October 2019, rewards for prestigious youth ahmadis were presented before the concluding session.

The Jalsa concluded with silent prayer led by the National Amir.

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

8

The pure life of the Seal of all Prophets Hazrat Dr Mir Muhammad Ismailra, the author of this article, was born on 18 July 1881 and was the brother of Hazrat Nusrat Jehan Begum Sahibara, the noble wife of the Promised Messiahas. He was among the 313 Companions of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas. Whilst studying in the Medical College, Lahore in 1905, the Promised Messiahas received a revelation about him, “Assistant surgeon”. As a result, in the whole of Punjab, he came first in his medical exam.

Hazrat Mir Sahibra was an extremely pious and devoted servant of the Promised Messiahas and authored many books in the service of Islam Ahmadiyyat. He was famous for his knowledge of Hadith and the life of Prophet Muhammadsa, which can be ascertained in his writings and compilation of poetry called Bukhar-e-Dil. He passed away in July 1947. This article was originally published in Urdu in Al Fazl on 12 June 1928

to any indecency. He never committed any sin.

When he was divinely commissioned with prophethood, he openly challenged his nation and said, “I spent my entire life among you. Tell me, what sin have I ever committed?” This challenge is in the Quran today.

Hazrat Dr Mir Muhammad Ismailra

Araising an assault on the Holy Prophet,

ryas have followed the Christians in

peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, that he was, God forbid, licentious and lived a luxurious lifestyle. To rebut this heinous allegation, we need not go far, nor do we need to present subtle arguments in response because when something is already so clear, it only requires us to point in the right direction.

We shall prove, from the noble life of the Holy Prophetsa and his sayings, practices and Quranic testimonies, that to launch such attacks is the typical cold-bloodedness of spiteful enemies and nothing more.

The personality of a prophet is much like a mirror and opponents only see their own reflection or the reflection of their nation in them. The nations that used force, deception and the sword to gain control over other nations accuse the Holy Prophetsa of using the sword and force. The nations that are consumed by indecency, adultery, fornication and other moral vices are the ones who accuse the Holy Prophetsa of living a luxurious and lascivious lifestyle.

Who stopped adultery in Arabia?

There was so much salaciousness in Arabia that only God could protect one from it. Not only were people immersed in adultery, but they would proudly boast of this. Brothels and other such businesses that promoted this were available in every tribe and group, so much so that once, a group came to visit the Holy Prophetsa in Medina and told the Prophetsa, “Ya Rasulallah [O Prophet of Allah]. We are extremely adulterous. Please permit us this and we shall all accept Islam.”

Not only did the Prophetsa not accept this request, but in a matter of only a few years, he destroyed this tendency in all of Arabia, to the extent that a woman could travel from one end of the country to the other, without any fear, save for the fear of Allah. This example, in which the entire Muslim world was cleansed, cannot be found by any reformer in any country. This was only through the spiritual power of one exemplary, chaste and pure individual.

Otherwise, to achieve such a feat is the task of no ordinary human. Is it possible to suggest that a licentious individual eradicated the lasciviousness of a nation and replaced the

Marriage to a 40-year-old woman At this age, he married and that too a 40-year-old widow who had lost two husbands previously. He loyally and purely remained with this lady for 25 years. When Hazrat Khadijara passed away, he was 50 years old – he had reached old age.

Polygamy was common in Arabia. He was from among the elite of his city and was the chief of his nation. Could he not have married another young wife during this time? However, he did not. Despite being young, he lived his life with an older lady.

Nikah with Saudahra and Aishara After the demise of Khadijara, he married Hazrat Saudahra and Hazrat Aishara.

Saudahra was elderly and not physically very attractive. Her husband was a companion and after his demise, the Prophetsa deemed it appropriate to marry Saudahra. This was his favour upon her. His marriage with Aishara was in fulfilment of a dream. Although the marriage took place straight away, Aishara was sent off to live with the Prophetsa three or four years later.

people’s indecency with purity?

Criteria for licentiousness Those who have a licentious nature never limit themselves to “Halal” licentiousness.

When the circumstances become favourable for them, it extends to adultery. Without alcohol and dancing, such shameless people cannot fully enjoy their indecent acts.

Can any rightminded person accept

that the individual who eliminated adultery, consumption of alcohol, dancing and even trespasses of the eye from his nation, was himself addicted to such a lifestyle?

The pure lifestyle of the Prophetsa Until the age of 25 – that is, the complete age of youth – the Prophetsa remained completely chaste. Neither did he commit any wrongful act, nor did he ever succumb

The other noble wives Many among the other noble wives who married him later in Medina were widows.

While some had lost one husband, others had lost two and they were all old in age. The reason for their Nikah with the Prophetsa is summarised as follows: 1. To promote education of the new religion among women 2. As a favour and courtesy on those women 3. As their entire people had accepted Islam, for example Hazrat Juwairiyahra 4. To inform others about the Prophet’ssa practices, manners and worship at home 5. To set a precedent and example for those who desired to marry more than once 6. For some women, there was no other guardian 7. To break some trends from the era of misguidance and disbelief, for example the

9

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM marriage with Hazrat Zainabra Thus, in his entire lifetime, he only married one virgin. If he was addicted to a life of licentiousness, then there were thousands of women he could have chosen.

Why would he fix assign his night at the house of a virgin after nine days?

Hazrat Aisha’sra testament I address our opponents and quote a narration of Hazrat Aishara, which has been included in Sahih al-Bukhari, a most authentic and accurate book, so that they may feel some shame and they may know through Hazrat Aishara that the person who had the most self-control and tamed his carnal instinct was none other than Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

With regard to the Prophetsa, Hazrat Aishara says, “He had the most control over his carnal desires.”

This is the statement of a wife and that wife for whom he had the most love. This is narrated by that wife, concerning whom this allegation against the Prophetsa is made in the first place. This is a testimony regarding his extraordinary character from a person who was most acquainted with him.

This testimony bears more weight than a thousand other testimonies. Is there anyone who can accept it?

The Prophet’ssa love for Aishara People have mentioned various reasons behind the Prophet’ssa love for Aishara.

Friends say that as she was extremely intelligent, a scholar of religion and the Prophetsa loved her more, whereas the foes say he loved her more as she was young and attractive.

The Holy Prophetsa himself answered this question, which is quoted in the authentic book of Sahih al-Bukhari.

It is said that once, he was asked by a lady, “Why do you not love your other wives as you do Aisha?” He replied, “When I am with the others, the angel that brings me God’s revelation does not descend upon me. When I am with Aisha, the angel comes to me.”

This means that Hazrat Aisha’sra physical and spiritual states were so high that even Gabrielas did not hesitate in visiting her house. The condition of other wives was not the same.

This clears the matter; the Prophet’ssa love for Aishara was in fact a result of his love for Allah as his Most Beloved’s words would be revealed to him in her abode. His love for her was not because of her youthful looks, attractiveness or beauty, but rather due to the revelation of God. This love was thus due to his love for Allah and not because of physical beauty or any carnal passion.

Other characteristics and attributes Once, the companions asked Hazrat Aishara, “How were the Prophet’ssa morals?” Hazrat Aishara replied: ُْ ُ​ُ ُ َ َ ‫ان خلق ُہ الق ْرٓان‬ ‫ک‬ [His conduct was the Quran (personified).] His morals were in complete harmony with the teachings of the Holy Quran. Whatever the Quran considered bad, he stayed away from it and whatever the Quran instructed, he always acted accordingly.

Now, let us take a look at the Quran and see what commandments there are concerning licentiousness.

Firstly, the Quran is replete with

Abdullahra bin Hisham narrates: “We were with the Prophetsa and he was holding the hand of Umar bin al-Khattabra. Umarra said to him, ‘O Allah’s Messenger! You are dearer to me than everything except my own self.’ The Prophetsa said, ‘No, by Him in Whose Hand my soul is, you will not have complete faith till I am dearer to you than your own self.’ Umarra then said, ‘However, now, by Allah, you are dearer to me than my own self.’ The Prophetsa said, ‘Now, O Umar, now you are a believer.’”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Iman wa al-Nazur)

instructions about refraining from adultery, trespasses of the eye and indecency (both inward and outward). Secondly, the Quran contains the instruction of Nikah and it is said that it should be performed not out of any carnal passions, but for Taqwa [fear of Allah] and to protect oneself from harm.

The condition for Nikah, as mentioned in the Quran, is “Ghaira musafiheen”, that is, “O Muslims. Do not perform Nikah due to carnal passions, but rather do it so that you may suppress and tame such passions.”

Therefore, if his conduct was in accordance with the Holy Quran, as Hazrat Aishara pointed out, then there is no doubt that he was not licentious or filled with lustful desires as the Holy Quran forbids licentiousness and lust, not only with other women but also with one’s wives.

His brother-in-law – Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra, who was highly intelligent, intellectual, close to the Prophetsa and would often visit him at home – says: ‫لم یکن النبی صلی اللہ علیہ و الہ و سلم فاحشا و لا متفحشا‬ “The Holy Prophetsa neither spoke indecently, nor was he indecent in any way.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari) This means that neither was anything foul or indecent heard from his mouth, nor was it ever noticed in his conduct. Who can say concerning a person who was piety and purity personified that he was prone to lasciviousness and lust? For these to exist requires some elements of indecency and obscenity as these are the first traces.

Due to my profession, I come across many immoral people and I have reached the conclusion that immorality and licentiousness and obscenity all go hand in hand. Without entering the realms of obscenity and indecency, a person cannot be licentious.

During his youth, his modesty was such that once, his uncle, Abbasra removed the Prophet’ssa clothes. Due to the shame, the Prophetsa fainted. An example of his modesty in later years, in the words of Hazrat Aishara, is, “The Holy Prophetsa never removed his clothes entirely in front of me, nor would he expect me to do so.” The Companionsra attest to the fact that the Prophetsa was more modest than a young, virgin girl.

In response to these facts, how is it acceptable to hear an immoral person suggest that the Prophetsa was licentious or lustful? If a person is called modest by his relatives, peers, friends and wives, how is it justified to attack that person’s modesty?

Only such a person can do so who is himself shameful.

Licentiousness is against the Islamic teaching of polygamy If the Holy Prophetsa had married all his wives out of lust and because of their physical beauty, then why is it that he had an inclination only to Aishara? And if he was only attracted to Aishara, then why would he

marry more wives and form a sort of barrier between him and Aishara?

No matter which angle this allegation is seen from, it just doesn’t fit right. His marriages were a great sacrifice which he made for the sake of Islam’s tabligh, to flourish religious education among women and to promote his practices. Due to these marriages, he always suffered pain and never was able to experience pleasure that husbands experience. He endured these great challenges for us as he was an example for us all and the first perfect model for equality and justice.

The people of his time never made such allegations All those allegations that were levelled against the character of the Prophetsa by the disbelievers and the People of the Book have been mentioned in the Holy Quran. At times he was called a poet, while also being called insane, a soothsayer and at other times, allegations were raised on his prophecies and other prophecies contained in earlier books.

Thus, there is a long list of allegations that were levelled against him, but never did anyone raise the allegation that he had lustful tendencies or a licentious attitude.

Jews lived with him in Medina for a long period and were present at Khaybar when he passed away; they never desisted in raising allegations against him.

This allegation is a creation of that period. Do these ignorant people not ponder over the fact that a lustful person always stays at home at the threshold of his beloved as opposed to staying out all day and parting from his dear wives at night to worship Allah to the extent that his legs and feet begin to swell? Is this the definition of a lascivious person?

Did anyone ever say, “O Prophet, do not stay with your wives so much as this does not behove you.” It is unfortunate that if such individuals who raised these allegations knew the truth about him and saw the actual love and desire he had in his heart, they would never allow such crude remarks to slip the tongue.

The Prophet’ssa relationship with the world The Holy Prophetsa+ describes his relationship with the world by saying, “The relationship I have with this world is similar to a person riding a camel for an important task and on his way, due to the intensity of the heat, he stops in a jungle beneath a tree to catch his breath under some shade so that he may carry on his journey.”

How can a person whose worldly life and worldly pleasures are described in this manner and who has such concern for his mission be accused of licentiousness and fulfilling his carnal passions? This can only be the work of a bitter and rancorous foe.

A

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org

He was king in his final years In his final years, the whole of Arabia had come under his rule. At one gesture, all comforts and luxuries could have been afforded to him, however he never turned towards worldly luxuries. His house always experienced a lack of wealth.

When Muslims saw great victories in his time and a large amount of wealth had been gathered, his wives came to request him for money as now, all Muslims in general had better living standards. “Can you please give us more food and clothes?” The Prophetsa was displeased at this request, so much so that he began staying in a separate house.

Hazrat Umarra came to see the Prophetsa and noticed that there was nothing in his house except a coarse rug, which had left marks on the Prophet’ssa body. Observing this state of the king of both worlds, Umarra began to cry. The Prophetsa enquired, “Why are you crying, Umar?” He replied, “While Caesar and Khosrow live in luxury, you live like this.” The Prophetsa responded, “For them is this world and for me is the Hereafter.

What benefit can worldly comforts bring to us?” Was this a lascivious person?

If he was, then whatever wealth came in the central reserve, he would have first distributed it between his wives to get better clothes, jewellery, ornaments and beautification for their homes. He would have celebrated that wealth and enjoyed a licentious lifestyle.

In contrast, however, they requested for a bit more food, which displeased him and even caused him to stop visiting them.

When, after a month, he revisited them, he said to one of his wives, “If you require the pleasures and delights of this world, then come, let me give you wealth so that I may free you. If, however, you desire God, His Prophet and an abode in the Hereafter, then you must reside in these very conditions.

And if you commit any act of indecency, then you will face double the prescribed punishment.”

He then said, “The make-up and beautification of the Jahiliyya period is forbidden for you. You should offer Salat, Zakat and recite the Quran. God desires to rid you of your sins and weaknesses and cleanse and purify you in every way.”

Are these the words of a licentious person? Can this be the reaction of an immoral person? Can the person, who warns his wives of a dual punishment for indecency, himself be indecent and obscene towards them? This is a point for deep reflection.

His family life Hazrat Aisha says, “In the Holy Prophet’ssa home, the stove would sometimes not function for two months. At times, we would have to survive on milk and dried dates or we would fast or stay hungry. During his ra

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

10 life, we never ate to the full, nor did we ever drink water so that it would fill us.”

Once, a guest came to visit at a time when there were nine houses. The guest went to every house and upon returning, conveyed the news that there was nothing to eat and that there was only water and if they wanted that, it was available.

During the Battle of the Ditch, some people complained of hunger and lifted their shirts to show that they had tied rocks to their abdomen to eradicate the hunger. When the Holy Prophetsa heard their complaints, he too lifted his shirt up and showed that he had, in fact, tied two rocks to his abdomen.

His poverty, and self-imposed poverty, proves the fact that he disliked the comforts and luxuries of this world, something he moulded his wives to be like.

Advice to others The Holy Prophetsa would always advise the younger generation to practice chastity and piety and would say, “O youth, get married or observe fasts as fasting eliminates carnal passions. Steer clear from every form of indecency.” The Holy Prophetsa himself would profusely observe fasts.

Commandments of the Holy Quran By saying “Ghaira musafiheen”, the Holy Quran not only forbade indecency with one’s wives, but also said, “Nisa‘ukum harthun lakum”, that is, “Your wives are a tilth for you.” This means that not only should men not use their wives to satisfy carnal desires, they should benefit from them as their tilth.

Aside from the appropriate relationships, inappropriate limits should not be crossed even in appropriate relationships.

Thus, the purpose should be to have offspring, tame one’s carnal instincts, develop the fear of Allah and to increase in love and mercy for one another, as opposed to unleashing one’s carnal passions uncontrollably.

The Holy Quran states that Allah prohibits us from every form of immoral vice. Salat has been made incumbent upon us so that we may refrain from every form of indecency. Thus, the Holy Quran – which our opponents suggest was designed and written by the Holy Prophetsa – in fact discourages the untamed expression of one’s carnal passions.

Thus, if the “author” lived by this and taught the world to live by this principle, then what sort of a person would he have been?

A European author writes, “Is it not astonishing that among all heavenly books, it is only the Holy Quran that is free from indecent and immodest subjects? Take other heavenly books for example and one is left stunned.”

A tree is known by its fruit The mass transformation that the Holy Prophetsa made in the whole of Arabia with regard to chastity is unparalleled. If one, however, reads about those who had the honour of being in his company, the world will be even more amazed. One or two examples are presented below: During the Jahiliyya period, a companion fell in love with a woman in Mecca and would often visit her. After the migration to Medina, he returned to Mecca for some errands. Whilst in Mecca, that same woman noticed him and lovingly called him over.

However, he replied, “Now I am a Muslim and we consider this Haram. Therefore, I

cannot come to visit you.” She replied, “If you do not cooperate, I will cry aloud. These Meccans are thirsty for your blood and they will capture you and kill you. If you wish to avoid this, then come inside.” The companion replied, “I may be killed, but I will not let my faith be compromised.” That lady then screamed out aloud, but God protected the companion and he clandestinely left the area. Had he not, he would surely have been killed.

Hazrat Abu Musa Ash‘arira says, “There was once a time when adultery was deemed to be a decent act. Now we live in a time when I can swear on oath and say that I would prefer to smell carrion as opposed to smelling the scent of another woman, who is unlawful for me.”

One companion felt the need for Nikah.

With great difficulty, he found a suitable match (as he was not physically attractive).

One day, when he went out to purchase a dress for her to wear when she would leave her home and finally enter his, he heard a loud cry, “O Muslims, listen! Come to Jihad.

The Prophet is leaving for Jihad.” With the money he intended to purchase the dress, the companion bought a horse and artillery and immediately joined the ranks of the Muslim army. During that same battle, he was martyred; may Allah be pleased with him!

How great was the person whose followers sacrificed their desires and worldly comforts for the sake of Allah the Almighty?

Tell me!

His Companionsra were such that one of them once said, “During the life of the Holy Prophetsa, we would not even fulfil our lawful desires out of fear because we could see God before our eyes. After his demise, the situation changed; otherwise, that period was very different.” Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him …

Foolishness Some opponents raise a foolish allegation by confusing sexual intimacy with lasciviousness. Such ignoramuses do not stop to think how the person with unparalleled qualities and morals must be in his treatment with his wives. To understand, this sentence should suffice and there is no need to break this down further.

A principal rebuttal Friend or foe, everyone is in agreement that the Holy Prophetsa spent his entire life, every day of his life and every moment of each day, in the concern of how to glorify the name of Allah throughout the world; how the world can be freed from the shackles of Shirk and establish the unity and oneness of Allah on this earth.

He could see the works of only one single power – Who is free from any need and blemish, adorned with every beauty and quality and equipped with all knowledge and all power – in the heavens, the earth, the wind, water, natural phenomena, daily affairs, the rain in spring, the intensity of summer heat, the cold of the winter season, blades of grass, the hairs on a camel, the birth and death of humans and animals, the existence of the universe and every natural occurrence; he was immersed in His love.

Apart from Him, nothing else was visible.

In His name, out of love for Him and for His worship, this ardent devotee of God sacrificed his entire life. When God made a decision, that was his decision. When God was displeased, this servant of God was

displeased. He was content in complete submission to his Master. The state of this love had reached such a stage that even the enemies would say, “Muhammad is immersed in the love of his God.” Every action, every word uttered by him, every movement and every pause was for his Most Beloved. It was to the point that when death approached him and his breathing became difficult, even at that point, the words “Bil-Rafiq-il-A‘la” [with the Most Noble Companion] were being uttered by him in reverence of his Master.

When this love is part of the equation and the servant has completely absorbed himself in the love of his Master, friend and foe both proclaim that he was a fervent lover of God. He sacrificed every fibre of his body for the love and service of his Lord. Then how can it be said about such a person that he had any attachment with this world? If he was truly a servant of God, then he cannot be considered worldly, licentious, a status seeker or wealth chaser. When true love comes into consideration, then any question on the subject holds little weight, rather it has no weight.

When such a person performs a task, he does so in obedience to the Master’s instructions and for attaining His pleasure and not for his own sake or for fulfilling his lustful desires. All pleasure, for such a person, is in attaining the nearness of the Beloved as opposed to the nearness of anyone else.

The relationship the Prophetsa had with his wives was due to God’s command and to show a perfect example to his Ummah, otherwise the true happiness for this servant of God was in acquiring the pleasure of his Lord and not in this inferior life.

Therefore, never forget this true and unique aspect of the Prophet’ssa life for allegations are raised only when this aspect is not borne in mind. Muhammadsa was devoted to his Lord. He could not find pleasure in anyone else’s company. The person who says anything contrary to this is a liar for the devotee himself says, “Qurratu ‘aini fil-Salah”, that is “The delight of my eyes is in presenting myself before my Lord in prayer.” May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

The leaders of the Quraish once called him and asked, “O Muhammad, you must cease from promoting Islam. We shall proclaim you king. We shall gather wealth for you. You may select the most beautiful of women in Arabia and we shall arrange them for you.” When this offer was presented to him, how did he respond? He completely rejected it and said, “The most beautiful woman of Arabia! If you were present women as beautiful as the sun and moon in my right and left hands, even then I shall not desist in spreading the message of God. And if I am to be slain in this way, even then I cannot cease from this task.”

I ask our opponents, even after reading this response in the Prophet’ssa own words, will you continue to make obscene assertions?

May God guide you and those of similar mindsets and may He remove the veils of prejudice from over your eyes so that you may see the true face of this light personified, which is not only pure and cleansed itself, but through its effect has purified and cleansed millions of humans. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him!

Continued from page 2 the horrific episodes of migration and relocation of families, Huzoorra instructed to restart these schools and colleges as the summer vacations were over. Upon this, Jamia and Madrassa Ahmadiyya’s teaching staff was shifted from Qadian to Lahore by 10 November. Both faculties were operational by 13 November in Lahore.

But the shortage of accommodation and other factors compelled the organisers to search for a new place.

Eventually, these training hubs were relocated in Chiniot and then, after two months, in Ahmad Nagar. Here, in the new location, they were merged as one institution and Maulana Abul Ata Sahib was appointed its head.

13 November 1947: Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira passed away. He was a prominent scholar with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the English language, yet surprisingly, he was known for a very simple and humble personality. He had the honour of translating the Holy Quran into English and was a devout companion of the Promised Messiahas.

13 November 1948: France witnessed a unique gathering convened in a public hall, which was presided over by a professor of Paris University.

Jamaat missionary, Malik Ata-urRahman Sahib spoke at this event and introduced the message of Jamaat.

14 November 1912: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira called the members of Jamaat to divert a part of their financial sacrifices to the fund established for the wounded soldiers of the ItaloTurkish War. 14 November 1923: Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra spoke to the audience gathered in Bradlaugh Hall, Lahore to listen to his words about national security and communal harmony.

14 November 1928: The rail track connecting Qadian to the rest of India was nearing its completion. On this historic occasion, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra engaged members of the Jamaat to remain loyal to God and ask His mercy time and again.

11

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Pan-African Peace Symposium 2019 Establishing Peace Through Justice, Compassion and Mutual Respect Ismail Anason, Secretary PAAMA Peace Symposium Organising Committee

n Saturday, 26 October 2019, the O Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association (PAAMA) UK held its third

Annual Pan-African Peace Symposium at the Baitul Futuh Mosque.

This year’s landmark event was themed “Establishing Peace Through Justice, Compassion and Mutual Respect”. The symposium sought to develop a deeper understanding of Islam and other faiths and to inspire a concerted effort for lasting peace among Africans and all peoples of the world.

The event was attended by distinguished personalities from various walks of life, including parliamentarians, diplomats, faith, community and civic leaders and was broadcast via livestream by MTA International, whereby people from around the world could also participate.

Before the formal session commenced, guests had the chance to peruse various exhibitions by PAAMA UK and IAAAE on the services to humanity and translations of the Holy Quran into various languages of the world.

The symposium opened with recitation from the Holy Quran by Mr Mansur Abiola Osota and its English rendition by Mr Ibrahim Bonsu. This was followed by a brief introduction of the dignitaries at the head table by Mr Ahmed Owusu, the Event Organising Chairman.

In his welcome address, Mr Tommy Kallon, President PAAMA UK, touched upon the aim of the event which was “to create a platform to engage and dialogue on issues that enhance the values of peace, righteousness, unity and brotherhood.”

He narrated the inspirational story of Hazrat Bilalra; his conversion to Islam, persecution and steadfastness, his services to the Holy Prophetsa and the role he played on the day of the conquest of Mecca in announcing amnesty and clemency to the people of Mecca and role that played in overcoming enmity and establishing bonds

of brotherhood as a practical example of how justice, compassion and mutual respect can establish peace.

This was followed by video presentations introducing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The videos also chronicled the efforts and endeavours of His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, towards world peace. His numerous trips and visits made to various world legislative bodies were shown where he takes the message of peace and “Love for all, hatred for none’ to world leaders discussing economic, social and political problems facing the world today.

The event continued with brief remarks by the guest speakers including Dr Basiyr Rodney, President PAAMA USA, Mrs Freda Bediako-Puni Minister Councillor for Political and Economic Affairs at the Ghana High Commission, Hon Abass Ridwan Dauda, Member of Parliament Ghana and His Excellency Dr Morie Komba Manyeh, Sierra Leone High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. They all lauded the organisers for hosting the event and stressed on the need and the possibility for peace.

There followed another video presentation highlighting the humanitarian work carried out by PAAMA UK in collaboration with Humanity First, the charity wing of the Community, as well as the International Association of Ahmadi Architects and Engineers (IAAAE) in Africa.

The keynote address was delivered

by His Excellency Sir Iftikhar Ayaz OBE KBE, High Commissioner Designate for Tuvalu and Chairman International Human Rights Committee. He started his speech by invoking upon the audience the peace, mercy and blessings of God. Sir Iftikhar reminded the audience on the philosophy behind the event which was to find an answer to attaining peace through justice, compassion and mutual respect for all. He touched on the visionary leadership of the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings

Tommy Kallon Sahib, President PAAMA UK, delivering the opening address

of God be on him) with regards to the administering of justice.

He alluded to a statement made by His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, (may God be his Helper) during his historic speech at UNESCO in Paris, made a few days ago, when he said, “The Prophetsa of Islam established an impartial judiciary and made it clear that there would be the same law for the rich and powerful and the poor and weak. All people would be treated equally, according to the law of the land.” He further added that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) made it clear that the same law applied to his own family.

He also remarked on the importance of education as being another key element in attaining world peace and reminded Africans to prepare to assume the leadership of the world in light of the profound words of His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may God be his Helper),“I firmly believe that the time is fast approaching for Africa to lead the world”. Sir Iftikhar ended with prayers that humankind comes

to recognise its obligations to one another so that future generations remember us for leaving behind a legacy of godliness, unity, fraternity, peace and prosperity.

Rafiq Hayat Sahib, Amir Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, gave the closing remarks to the symposium. He congratulated PAAMA UK on organising the event and expounded on the need for man to recognise his Creator. This, he said, is the only source and means for internal peace and peace of the world at large. He then led the traditional collective silent prayer to bring the formal session to a close, following which dinner was served to all attendees.

Overall, the Pan-African Peace Symposium was a resounding success and feedback received from attendees testified to that. The number of highly distinguished dignitaries and guests in attendance, which totalled 668 participants, was an indication of the wide appeal the event had. The event was not only well-organised and wellattended, but also had a theme and objective which generated much interest among the attendees and viewers on livestream.

12

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Responding to Allegations

Do Ahmadis celebrate Milad al-Nabi [birth of the Holy Prophet]? states in the Holy Quran: ُّ Almighty ُ َ َ ْ َّ َ ُّ َ َ ّ َّ َ َ َ ْ ُّ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ َ َ ّٰ َّ Allah ‫آمنوْا َصلوْا‬ ‫إِن الله وملائِكته يصلون على الن ِب ِي ۚ يا أيها ال ِذين‬ َ َ ّ ‫َعل ْيه َو َسل ُِموْا ت ْسل ِْي ًما‬

ِ “Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe, you too should invoke blessings on him and salute him with the salutation of peace.” (Surah alAhzab, Ch.33: V.57) The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “A person who invokes durood on me will receive ten blessings from Allah.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab as-Salat) There are countless occasions and various ways of expressing love and affection towards the Holy Prophetsa. Rabi‘ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar, for instance, is a time when the hearts of the Muslim world are compelled to remember the blessed personage of the Holy Prophetsa, as it is the month in which he was born. A great number of Muslims gather on 12 Rabi‘ al-Awwal across the globe and celebrate the day when the blessing for all universe, Hazrat Muhammad al-Mustafasa came into this world.

Pondering over the history of Islam, we do not find any evidence whatsoever which indicates that either the Holy Prophetsa celebrated his own birthday or his companions who possessed extreme love for him commemorated the day of his birth.

Nevertheless, celebrating the birth of the Holy Prophetsa, people decorate mosques, houses, streets and parks with lanterns and twinkling lights. Mass gatherings are held and blessings are invoked along with songs being sung in his praise to show extreme devotion for the Holy Prophetsa. Some people cut cakes to celebrate the birthday of the Holy Prophetsa and candles are lit.

On the other hand, a group of Muslims consider these practices to be against the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa and even oppose the act of remembering and highlighting the character and blessed life of the Holy Prophetsa.

Regarding the celebration of Milad alNabi, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat believes that either extremes are bad. Considering it forbidden to mention even the name of the Holy Prophetsa on this occasion is one extreme, while on the contrary, celebrating it by introducing a number of innovations in the blessed and peaceful religion of Islam is another extreme.

In response to a question about maulood khawani [invoking blessings on the Holy Prophetsa on the day of his birth], the Promised Messiahas said:

“The act of remembering [the life and character] of the Holy Prophetsa is a very remarkable thing. In fact, a hadith confirms that mercy descends by remembering the prophets and auliya [beloved ones of God]. Even God Himself has drawn attention towards the remembrance of prophets. However, if such innovations become a practice that causes a defect in the unity of God, then it is not permissible.

Honour the Glory of God according to His status and regard the dignity of a prophet in accordance with his station. The words of present-day Maulvis are full of innovations. If innovations are not present [in a practice], it becomes a kind of sermon.

The remembrance of the Holy Prophet’ssa arrival, birth or demise is worthy of reward.”

(Malfuzat, Vol. 3, pp. 159-160) Highlighting the significance of Durood Sharif, the Promised Messiahas states: “What is Durood Sharif – to call upon that lofty station of the Holy Prophetsa, through which these tubes of spiritual light emerge. It is incumbent upon whoever wishes to have the blessings and beneficence of Allah the Exalted to invoke Durood Sharif in abundance so that the beneficence is stirred.” (Al Hakam, 28 February 1903, p.

7) Following the footsteps of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, members of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Islam engage in invoking blessings upon the Holy Prophetsa throughout the year. Jalsa Seerat-un-Nabi [gatherings dedicated for the life and character of the Holy Prophetsa] are conducted across the globe. The blessed model of the Holy Prophetsa and the teachings of Islam are highlighted. Ahmadis pray and strive to act upon the guidance and instruction laid down by the mercy of all mankind.

Regarding the celebration of Milad alNabi, the present head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that though commemorating Eid Milad alNabi like the other Muslims do is wrong, considering it forbidden is incorrect also.

He explained that Eid Milad al-Nabi was even celebrated in Qadian and Rabwah where people used to decorate their houses by installing lamps and lights along with small flags. He further said that such celebrations are forbidden which involve harmful innovations that have nothing to do with Islamic teachings, but if it is celebrated to highlight the massage of Islam and the Holy Prophetsa in certain countries or as

Wiki Commons

Firdaus Latif, Wiki Commons

For a long time, processions have taken place on the streets of large towns and cities across the world (as shown above). Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa­ guided the Jamaat by saying that although this is not correct, we can, on this day, hold Jalsas and read more about the Prophet’ssa life to inform ourselves of his grand status and noble example, without getting involved in any form of innovation

Jalsa Seerat-un-Nabi, then there is no harm in it. Huzooraa also drew attention towards studying and being well-informed about the life and character of the Holy Prophetsa and suggested to read the second half of the book, Introduction to the Study of the Holy Quran written by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra, as it contains a brief history of Islam and Prophet Muhammadsa.

Hence, Ahmadis celebrate Milad al-Nabi every day of the year by spreading the true teachings of Islam and presenting the Holy Prophetsa as a role model before the world.

Moreover, we do not consider it unlawful to celebrate the day of the Holy Prophetsa as far

as it is celebrated within the limits laid down

by Islam and proves beneficial for mankind.

However, we should remain cautious that no harmful innovations are involved in it.

The actual purpose which is the remembrance of the Holy Prophetsa should not be pushed aside or ignored, as it is stated

by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa: “May Allah make it so that to avoid the evils of the world and to foster the love of the Holy Prophetsa in our hearts, to spread his teachings in the world and we continue to be the recipients of the blessing and beneficence by invoking Durood, by turning to Allah and seeking His help. May God Almighty help us.” (Friday Sermon, 10 February 2006)

13

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

The Holy Prophet’s favours upon women Original Urdu published in Al Fazl on 12 June 1928

Zakiya Khatun

B

efore Islam, the conduct of the world towards this one half of mankind is still preserved in the pages of the history.

Pondering over the history of various nations, traditions of different faiths and religious doctrines, this reality becomes evident that not a single nation or religion established such a status for women which they deserved and it was only established by the pure teachings of the Holy Prophetsa.

Today, when a period of more than 13 centuries have passed since the spread of the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa in the world, followers of different faiths, while existing side by side with Muslims, have observed the Islamic mode of life and culture. Every religion in its own circle claims to be the bestower of supreme status to the women and actively tries hard to do it, but the reality remains that all these efforts were inspired by the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa of Arabia, who supported this vulnerable and oppressed being 1,300 years ago. Otherwise, their own religious books have no mention of these teachings.

Although, I have to mention the

favours of the greatest benefactor, my beloved Prophet Muhammadsa on this occasion, in order to shed more light on the attributes of his blessed teachings, I present some teachings of various other religions as a sample: Status of women in Arabia What was the condition of women in Arabia before Islam? In response, it should suffice to say that as a wife, she was like a property to the husband, which was transferred as inheritance. A single man could marry as many women as he desired. The bond of marriage was so weak that divorce was given on trivial issues. As a daughter, she was worthy of being buried alive.

Status of women in Christianity Although Christianity is famous for its kindness and compassion, it has not done any favours towards womankind. It is said that Jesusas gave precedence to celibacy over marriage and in fact hailed it as the means for entering into the heavenly empire and it is said that he himself remained single.

Moreover, it is indicated from the Gospels

that his behaviour towards his mother was also not very good.

It is for this reason that Christian noblemen always saw this oppressed class with disdain. Even today [in 1928], after a lot of reformation, women have no permanent status in Christian countries. Immediately after marriage, all of her property becomes the possession of her husband and she herself is left emptyhanded. Furthermore, she has no share in her father’s estate along with her brother. In fact, even if a single heir exists, she gets nothing from the inheritance.

Apart from this, religiously, she was considered the first sinner and the root cause of evil. It was because of her that mankind was rendered sinful. This is that belief which is the basis of hatred and scorn towards womankind by holy and staunch Christian noblemen.

Status of women in Hinduism The condition of Hinduism is much worse, as it considers this vulnerable being to be absolutely unworthy of trust, who can never be trusted. The steadfastness of Rani

Kausalya and the maxim of Sita Ji’s loyalty did not prove enough to minimise the untrustworthiness.

According to the doctrines of Hindus, marriage is the name of kanyadaan, i.e. giving charity and its acceptance. The wife is considered such a thing that is granted to the husband as a charity. Therefore, it is his lawful possession. Her status is that of a servant of the husband in the house. Her obligation is to serve the husband and his family, but she has no special rights.

If the husband passes away, then the wife should be burnt alive alongside him because her own life has no purpose. A woman is one of those things that has been created in the universe to fulfill the necessities and to serve for the comfort and well-being of mankind. A Hindu woman has no share in inheritance as well.

Regardless of being born in the era of progression and development, Arya Samajists consider wives to be such a possession of the husband that whenever he wills, wherever he desires and for as many days as he wishes, he can transfer it. According to the belief of Arya Samaj, a woman always possesses a sinful soul in her body because, as per the concept of reincarnation, the soul is given the medium of woman as a punishment of certain sins.

Hence, neither any religion nor any reformer made an effort to eradicate cruelty and unfair domination of the oppressed class of women and to liberate them from the oppression to which they were subjected.

There was only for the one and only holy personality, who was sent by God as “Rahmatun-lil-Alamin”, i.e. he was sent in the world as an absolute mercy for all mankind. His blessed personage was the sheer grace of God. His compassion and kindness rescued this creation from the pit of disgrace in which the mankind had thrown them. Their urusped rights were reinstated and their dignity and status, bestowed to them by their Creator, were re-established.

Status of women in Islam The Holy Prophetsa made it clear that a woman is also a creation of God Almighty as is a man. They have the same status in humanity as that of men. They can also attain the delight of God Almighty and His nearness by following the same conditions

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

14 set out for men. Their virtuous deeds are equally worthy of acceptance as that of men. The Holy Prophetsa said: ‫ واحصنت‬،‫ وصامت شھرھا‬، ‫المراۃ اذا صلت خمسھا‬ ‫ فلتدخل من ای ابواب الجنۃ‬، ‫فرجھا۔ واطاعت بعلھا‬ ‫شاءت۔‬ A faithful chaste woman who abides by the commandments of the Shariah [divine law] can enter the paradise from whichever gate she pleases. It means that there is no specified rank for God Almighty’s nearness and spiritual advancement limited to men.

According to their deeds, women can also achieve every rank.

The Holy Quran states: َ َُْ َ​َ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ‫نث ٰى َو ُهوَ ُم ْؤم ٌن َفأُولٰٓئ َك يَ ْد ُخ ُلوْن‬ ‫ات ِمن ذك ٍر أو أ‬ ‫ومن يعمل ِمن‬ ِ ‫الصال َِح‬ ِ ِ َ ‫ال ْ َج َّن َة َولَا يُ ْظ َل ُم‬ ً‫ون ن َ ِقيرا‬ “And whoso does good works, whether male or female, and is a believer, such shall enter Heaven, and shall not be wronged even as much as the little hollow in the back of a date stone.” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.125) In clear words, this verse gives glad tiding of equivalent reward to both men and women as a result of virtuous deeds.

Islam has not established any distinction between men and women in matters of faith. The real purpose of a person’s life, i.e. the door of attaining God Almighty’s nearness and delight, is equally open to both.

The instructions laid down towards men for performing particular good deeds and prayers are equally directed to women as well. Those wrong deeds from which the men are prohibited, women are also barred from them. Neither are women deprived of any virtue or prayer, nor are men freed from any restrictions.

Both of them are promised equal reward on virtuous deeds. In fact, in certain situations, considering the natural vulnerability of women, some relief has been given in the commandments, which cannot be elaborated in detail on this occasion.

Women as mothers Almost every nation gives respect to women as mothers. However, the saying of the Holy Prophetsa in this regard stands out as well. The Holy Prophetsa said, “Paradise lies under the feet of mothers.”

The obedience and service towards the mother brings about Allah Almighty’s pleasure and draws a person near paradise.

On the other hand, God is displeased if someone acts disrespectfully towards the mother and the person strays away from the rewards of God Almighty, even though his other deeds are good.

The Holy Quran draws the attention of mankind towards the rights of parents in the following words: َ ُ َ ْ َ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ ُ ْ َ َّ ً َ ْ ْ َ َ ْ َ ‫اه َما فلَا‬ ‫و ِبالو َال ِدي ُ ِن ِإحسانا ۚ ِإما يبلغ َن ِعندك َال ِكبر أحدهما أو ِكل‬ ْ َ ً ًْ َ َ ُ ّ ُ َ َ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ​َ ّ َ ُ ّ ُ َ َ‫اخ ِف ْض ل َ ُه َما َج َناح‬ ‫تقل لهما ُأ ٍف ولا تنهرهما وقل لهما قولا ك ِريما۔ و‬ ّ ً ‫الرَ ْح َم ِة َو ُقل َّر ّب ْار َح ْم ُه َما َك َما َر ّبَ َياني َص ِغ‬ ّ ‫الذ ِ ّل ِم َن‬ ‫يرا‬ ِ ِ “And show kindness to parents. If one of them attain old age with thee or both of them, never say unto them any word expressive of disgust nor reproach them, but always address them with excellent speech. And lower to them the wing of

humility out of tenderness. And say, ‘My Lord, have mercy on them even as they nourished me in my childhood.’” (Surah Bani Israil, Ch.17: V.24-25) How pure a teaching it is! Not only should you treat your aged parents with kindness, but you should also pray before Allah Almighty to shower mercy upon them. Here, if the rights of the mother are not more, then they are no less than the father as well. The instruction to pray for the parents before God Almighty is an attribute which is only peculiar to Islam.

Women as wives The most important, yet the most oppressed state of women is that which is called by the name of “wife”. It is for this reason that the greatest benefactor of womankind, the Holy Prophetsa had to lay special emphasis on kind treatment towards wives. The Holy Prophetsa said: ‫ وأنا خيركم لأهلي‬،‫خيركم خيركم لأهله‬ “The best of you is the one whose treatment towards his wife is the best and my conduct towards my wives is the best from among you.”

The saying is captivating and encourages kind treatment. It is a great truth which manifests the status and dignity of wives in its entirety. Acting kindly towards one’s wife is declared a standard of virtue.

When somebody enquired about the rights of a wife from the Holy Prophetsa, he said, “Whatever you eat, you should give her to eat as well. When you wear new clothes, make them for her as well. Never hit her on the face. Never say a bad word to her. Never separate from her.”

Indeed, he explained that the way husband stays within the house, it is necessary to keep the wife in the same condition. It is not permissible for one to live in a good condition and keep their wife in a bad state. One should not insult and humiliate her. If, owing to calm a situation or for any other settlement, you have to separate, then you can do that while staying within the four walls of the house.

So that no harm is done to the overall love and affection in the household, separation for reconciliation does not become the source of hatred.

Regarding the rights of the wife, the Holy Quran states: َّ ْ َ ْ ‫َو ل َ ُھ َّن ِمث ُل ال ِذ ْی َعل ْی ِھ َّن ِبال َم ْعرُ ْو ِف‬ “And they [the wives] have rights similar to those [of husbands] over them in equity.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.229) All religions have emphasised over the rights of husbands, but the rights of wives are thrown behind their backs. It is only Islam which states that it is not only that husbands have rights over the wives, but wives also have rights over husbands. As you expect the fulfilment of your rights, their rights should be fulfilled also.

Then, the Holy Quran states about the relationship of a husband and wife: ً ًَ َ َُ ‫َو َج َع َل بَ ْينكم ّموَ ّدة َو َر ْح َمة‬ “He has put love and tenderness between you” (Surah al-Rum, Ch.30: V.22). This means that there should be a connection of love and affection between

husband and wife.

At another place, the Holy Quran states: َْ َ َ ُ ُ​ُْ َ َ ً َ ْ َ ُ ‫وه َّن ف َع َس ٰى أن تك َر ُهوْا ش ْيئا‬ ‫وف ۚ ف ِإن ٰك ِرهتم‬ ِ ُ‫َو َعا ِش ُروه ّن ِبال َم ْعر‬ َ َ ّ ْ ً ‫يه خي ًرا ك ِث‬ ‫يرا‬ ِ ِ‫َويَ ْج َع َل الل ُه ف‬ “And consort with them in kindness; and if you dislike them, it may be that you dislike a thing wherein Allah has placed much good.” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.20) Glory be to God! How beautifully has the emphasis been laid on kind social conduct! It is quite possible that you dislike your wife for a certain reason, but even in these circumstances, you should not act unkindly towards her. Who knows the underlying philosophies of God Almighty’s wisdom? What do you know?

It is possible that there are many positives hidden in it.

Have faith in the graciousness and blessings of Allah Almighty and under His directions, behave kindly, even if you dislike a thing. If you do so, Allah Almighty shall place goodness and blessings in it.

Is there any other religious book in the whole world which emphasises such kind treatment towards wives?

The Holy Prophetsa was so concerned about the rights of women that in the last sermon which he delivered on the occasion of Hajj at Arafat, he addressed the Muslims in the following manner: “O people! Some rights of yours are due upon women and some rights of theirs are due upon you. Act mercifully towards your wives. You have married them believing in God to be Omnipresent and Omniscient, and they have been made lawful for you under the directions of God Almighty. Hence, you have offered them protection under the obligation of God Almighty.”

Even in his last will, our beneficent Prophetsa was concerned about our prosperity and progress. He drew attention towards the rights of women in the best possible way and stressed upon behaving kindly towards them. O Allah, shower peace, blessings and bounties upon Muhammadsa.

Women as daughters Not only did the Holy Prophetsa declare the cruel practice of burying daughters alive forbidden, he laid emphasis on behaving compassionately and affectionately towards daughters also. Hence, he said, “Should I not tell you that there is no better charity than looking after your daughter when she comes to you and no other person in the world cares for her except you.”

How beautifully has the Holy Prophetsa highlighted that if your daughter becomes worthy of help, you must assist her. Aiding her in this condition is the best of virtues.

On one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa said, “The person who is blessed with daughters and treats them kindly, the same daughters will veil them from the fire of hell.”

Furthermore, he said, “Whosoever looks after his daughters, he and I will be like this in the Hereafter”, and he joined two of his fingers, meaning that the Prophetsa and such a person would be together.

In the present age, conditions have changed a lot, but the person who ponders over the circumstances 13 centuries ago can very easily realise the significance of the Holy Prophet’ssa instructions. The being who was considered a calamity by her mother and a disgrace by her father, the Prophetsa established her love in the hearts of parents. Moreover, he expressed that daughters equally deserves our kindness and affection as sons do.

General rights of women The Holy Prophetsa said, “Fear God Almighty with respect to [the rights] of women and orphans.” As both are weak classes [of society], therefore he put emphasis not to deprive them from their rights owing to their weakness and whilst fearing God, their due rights should be given. If one fails to do so, God Almighty shall hold them accountable.

All nations deprived women from the rights of inheritance. It was only Islam that recognised the right of inheritance for women. Allah the Almighty states: ّ َ ُ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َّ ّ ٌ ْ َ َ ّ َ َ َ َ ‫ِلن َسا ِء ن ِص ْي ٌب ِّم ّما ترَك‬ ‫ان والأقرب‬ ِ ‫ون َول‬ ِ ‫ل ِلرجال ن ِصيب ِمما ترك الوال ِد‬ ً ُ ْ َّ ً ْ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ ْ َّ َ َّ َ ْ ُ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ ِ ِ ‫ان والأقربون ِمما قل ِمنه أو كثر ۚ ن ِصيبا مفروضا‬ ِ ‫الوال ِد‬ “For men is a share of that which parents and near relations leave; and for women is a share of that which parents and near relations leave, whether it be little or much a determined share.” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.8) A Muslim woman is heir to the estate of her parents and relatives, similar to that of a man. Moreover, she is the owner of her own property, upon which neither her husband, nor any other relative has any right of possession. Hence, Allah the Almighty states: َ َ َ ّ ُ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َ ُّ َ َ ْ ُ َ َ ْ َّ َ ُّ َ َ ‫اء ك ْر ًها‬ ‫النس‬ ِ ‫يا أيها ال ِذين آمنوا لا ي ِحل لكم أن ترِثوا‬ “O ye who believe! it is not lawful for you to inherit women against their will.”

(Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.20) A wife can buy and sell her property in accordance with her wishes and she has absolute control over the gains received.

Another right of a Muslim woman is the dowry, which is settled on the occasion of Nikah, according to the status of the husband. Its dispensation is incumbent on the husband. This is the protection of women’s rights and it is for those needs of women which are not compulsory for the husband to fulfill.

Ponder over all the rights of women which have been presented as a model.

Has any other religion or any other guide and reformer supported this being in this way? Have they granted such high worldly and religious status and honour? Has any other human being stressed and strived for protecting her lawful rights? Certainly not!

It was only the blessed personage of Rahmatun-lil-Alamin who yearned for the prosperity and progress of women and who endeavoured for them to the fullest possible extent. Hence, how much worthy of respect, honour and love is that holy personality who is our greatest benefactor beneath the skies! Peace, blessings and bounties of Allah be upon him.

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

15

A favour by the patron of humanity Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra­, the author, was born on 13 January 1872 in Bhera, India. He learnt a lot spiritually from his relationship with Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra. He first visited Qadian in 1890 and after pursuing various careers, he resigned from the last one and permanently resided in Qadian, where he would later serve as the second headmaster of Talim-ul-Islam High School and editor of Al Badr. He is famously known for serving the Promised Messiahas in his department of correspondence. He later served as missionary in the UK, and the USA where he was the first Ahmadi missionary. He also had the honour of serving as private secretary to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and was, overall, an ardent devotee of the mission of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas. He passed away on 13 January 1957. This article was originally published in Urdu in Al Fazl on 12 June 1928

Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra

M

any people came into the world and passed away, but praiseworthy are those benevolent personalities who set foot on this planet and brought about a positive transformation in the condition of [humanity] on the earth. Their promising arrival led to significant progress in the prosperity and well-being of mankind.

The most blessed personality among these eminent persons is that of Hazrat Muhammad al-Mustafasa, the glory of the universe, benefactor of all the worlds, the guide for creation and mercy to all mankind.

His universal compassion and endless blessings are not limited to Arabs and non-Arabs, but for every country, nation,

ethnic group and all ages. He was the life support for the awwalin [pioneers] and is the pride of the akharin [people of the latter days] because they had the honour of being regarded as his servants. Millions and millions of blessings, benevolence, bounties and peace of Allah and His angels be upon his blessed personage. Amin summa Amin!

Nobody can count the favours and bounties of the Holy Prophetsa, the chief of the universe, upon mankind. Those nations who are deprived of the honour of openly entering into the servitude of the Holy Prophetsa by reading out the kalima, ّ ٰ ُ ْ ُ َّ ٌ َّ َ ُ ُ ّ ٰ َّ َ ٰ َ ‫[ لا اِلہ اِلا اللہ محمد رسول اللہ‬There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His messenger], despite being shackled

in their ancestral and cultural constraints, they are deeming it necessary to enter the principles laid down by Hazrat Khatam-unNabiyyin [the Seal of all Prophets] in their manual of regulations and laws. Even if those rules are against and contrary to their religion. From countless instances, I present only one example on this occasion.

Before the bounteous appearance of the Holy Prophetsa, the king of both worlds, wine-drinking was a usual practice. Be it Jews, Christians, Hindus, Chinese and Japanese etc., no one was free from this ill. Moreover, there was no instruction of prohibition of wine in any religion.

This malignant and impure practice was considered as lawful as mother’s milk. They

would drink it in abundance and remained drunk. The very first awareness and the very first instruction to eradicate this impurity from the world was initiated by Hazrat Khatam-un-Nabiyyin. Through his power of purification, he practically removed this evil from the entire Jamaat of Muslims and the whole of Arabia, within his lifetime.

Holy is Allah! How dignified and extraordinary was that being’s personality who laid down the foundation of such a grand law, in order to save the world from great torment and pain. He caused to flow a wave of reformation in the minds across the globe and granted a spiritual power to the wonderful Jamaat for acting upon [the teachings]. O Allah, peace, blessings

16

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Wiki commons

and bounties be upon Muhammad and the people of Muhammad. Thou art indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.

In the course of time, the same reformatory wave had such an impact on the face of the earth that the Christian world of Europe and America who had the commandment of drinking wine in their sacred religious ceremonies and was sipped while sitting in the middle of the worship places, they too began to realise the ill effects of alcohol. Temperance societies came into being. The rich millionaires, with their high value donations, established institutions in which highly qualified doctors and experts began to medically examine the chemical formation of alcohol and the outcome of its uses.

After a lot of research and deep study, they issued verdicts stating that drinking alcohol was very harmful and is in fact deadly for the human body and soul. They said that it should be declared illegal by law and its manufacturing, along with its consumption, should be declared a crime.

The words of the Holy Quran already contained the knowledge gathered by European and American physicians and philosophers after spending millions of rupees and centuries of experiments and observations, and considered that knowledge to be extremely vital for the life of mankind.

Moreover, the Prophet Muhammadsa, the manifestly truthful, the symbol of the Gracious God, the sun of knowledge and guidance, and the chosen one, had intructed his Ummah to follow these [verdicts of scientists] 1,300 years from now. That Holy Prophetsa of Arabia had no laboratory. He had not studied the books of physics and chemistry. He had not gathered the statistics of the conditions and instances of wine drinkers across the world.

However, today, the greatest minds and the so-called rationalists are placing the pearl of wisdom that [originally] came out of his innocent mouth, into their own crown of reformation.

America, which is considered at the forefront of every civilised world, took steps at the outset and the law makers of its parliament, irrespective of extreme opposition by the Christian priests, made a law for their country that made alcohol and its manufacturing illegal and a crime of state and law. Christian priests and verbal lovers of Christianity constantly screamed

and shouted, saying that there was a vital requirement for wine in the ritual of Eucharist in the cathedral. The communion which is the highest worship of divine unity cannot be performed without wine and it should not be forbidden, they said.

In fact, certain priests delivered addresses from the top of their voices and said that brothers should realise that alcohol is such a fine thing that Jesus Christ himself used to drink it and his disciples would greatly enjoy it.

In fact, in a wedding ceremony, when there was a shortage of wine for the participants, the mother of Jesusas requested him and Jesusas, accepting the request of his kind mother, turned water into wine through a miracle. The participants of the wedding procession drank it and celebrated with delight. When Jesusas permitted the use of wine, then who has the right at present to declare wine to be unlawful.

Various priests protested in this way.

However, the wise priests assisted the works of researchers and said that it is true that all these matters are mentioned in the gospel.

However, they said that firstly, the present gospels consist of certain adjunctions.

Secondly, when an observation had been concluded through centuries of experiments and scientific research and shows [alcohol] to be a deadly poison for the human body and lethal for morals, then what should be done about the Gospel! The matter which is entirely beneficial for the country, nation and mankind should be adopted and followed, whether it is for or against the Gospel. Hence the outcry of those priests, who wished to legalise alcohol was not accepted and the American congress, along with their president, devised a law which made selling and drinking alcohol a crime.

When this humble writer [of this article] entered the country of America, the time for the implementation of this law came to pass. As whenever such laws are created that cause an impact on the trade of the country, enough ease is provided. A respite of two years was given before the implementation of this law. When this time of relaxation came to end, the drunkards passed the last night in drinking and bidding it farewell. Singing farewell songs for alcohol, drunkards were wandering around every street and lane. There was extreme restlessness. However, when that night ended, the entire country was at peace. Every wine shop was closed. Every

bar was locked. Police began to arrest those who were not abiding the law.

All of this came to pass and happened for good, but worldly laws have very little power as compared to religion. People follow the law only out of fear of getting caught. However, religion impacts the heart of man and not for any fear, but a person practices it owing to the love of his religion.

This attribute and blessing is not present in material laws. It was for this reason that even after the establishment of this law in America, wine manufacturers, sellers and drinkers continued to exist.

In the middle of this, when I arrived in America and the law of prohibition had been implemented, I was residing with a family in a city as a paying guest and used to have my meal with them, as it is customary practice over there that the food is included in the rent. Once, when I came down for breakfast from my room upstairs, I noticed that the lady of the house, who was an elderly woman, was shouting. I asked her gently, “Miss, what is the problem?” She cried out loud and pointing towards her old husband sitting on the chair in front of her, said, “Look at this old man. Every evening, he drinks wine and comes back stumbling drunk and intoxicated. He has made my life miserable. He has no shame at all.” I said, “Miss, it is quite surprising what I am hearing from you. Everyday, I read in newspapers that the law of prohibition has been passed in the country. Neither can anyone manufacture, nor can anybody drink alcohol.” She replied, “O mister, you are a stranger. You are not familiar that nowadays, far more alcohol can be purchased as compared to before, provided you know the place to purchase it and your pocket is full of money.”

Hence, the law was made, but who can compel [someone] to follow the law! The makers of law do not possess that divine power which was present in the purified soul from whose mouth these words were expressed, “Do not drink alcohol” and they settled in the hearts of the Bedouins of Arabia and the drinkers.

Those people who used to drink five times a day suddenly left the alcohol and their minds began to be intoxicated with the addiction of worship and prayer before Allah Almighty at five different times. Allah is the Greatest. How strong was the spiritual power of Muhammadsa al-Mustafa, the guide for the weak, who expelled the ghost

of alcohol in a single attack from the entire country! If the world had followed his instructions, this evil practice would have vanished from the face of the earth and present day archeologists would not have found any sign of it.

It is reported that when the chief of the universe announced the commandment regarding wine in his blessed mosque and the audience dropped their heads in submission, one of his companions carried this announcement on his way back home in a loud voice, saying that the Holy Prophetsa had conveyed the commandment of alcohol being prohibited and that nobody should drink it anymore. Whoever heard this decided to follow and they never tasted alcohol again.

Two brothers were sitting in their home, when one of them heard the voice and expressed it to the other one. He replied that as it was an order, they should follow it. The former said that they had a pot of wine at home and that they should dispose of it. To this, his brother questioned what the rush was all about and that they would enquire about it when they got to the mosque. If it was an actual commandment, they would discard. The first one said that he was making a mistake. “If we visit the mosque to ask about it and it turns out to be true and we flip over the pot afterwards, then we will lag behind from other Muslims in acquiring the reward of this good deed.” He expressed, “I cannot tolerate this. Destroy it right now. If it is not a commandment, then once we are back, it is not difficult to buy more.” Saying that, he grabbed a stick and smashed the pot.

Glory be to Allah! How pure were their emotions! What an extraordinary spirit of advancing in good deeds was blown in his followers by the warrior of the Glorious God! How beautifully he purified his Jamaat! Who was Muhammad? He was a remedy, the philosopher’s stone. Even dirt would turn into gold by touching him.

Owing to Muhammadsa, those who were considered the most ignorant across the globe became teachers of the world in the fields of arts and sciences. Thanks to the Holy Prophetsa, the residents of an uncultivable valley, who were not considered worthy of being conquered by a king owing to their dryness and bareness, became the conquerors of the world and the most civilized. How great was that attraction, power and drawing force that an instruction would be uttered from the mouth of beloved Muhammadsa and it would settle in the hearts of countless people, such that nobody was able to eradicate it.

There are many bounties of the merciful and compassionate personage of Muhammadsa on mankind, innocent animals, insects, birds, trees and fruits.

However, if he had done nothing else, then the extraordinary work of eradicating and killing the serpent of alcohol by this Rahmatun-lil-Alamin is in itself enough to prove why mankind sings songs of praise for this great benefactor and continues to send peace and blessings upon him and shall do so till Judgment Day. O Allah, send peace blessings and bounties upon Muhammad and the people of Muhammad. Thou art indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

17

Wives of the Holy Prophetsa

Hazrat Aisha bint Abi Bakrra Awais Rabbani Missionary, Pakistan

“The greatness of Aishara over the rest of the wives is like thareed”, i.e. the superiority that meat has over ordinary food. (The Holy Prophetsa) Full name: Aisha bint Abi Bakr Father: Abdullah bin Abi Qahafa (Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra) Mother: Umme Ruman Zainab bint Amir Appellation (kuniyat) : Umme Abdullah Ahadith Narrated: 2,210 Introduction Hazrat Aishara was the daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra, who was the closest companion of the Holy Prophetsa and the first Khalifa of the Holy Prophetsa.

Her life is proof of Islam’s progressive stance on women. She was a prominent figure who challenged the prevalent stereotypes and taboos of society. She is proof that women share egalitarian rights in Islam. Her life ascertains that Islam does not discriminate between sexes, nor does it mandate marginalisation of women. A wife, stateswoman, scholar and an enlightened thinker; she was an astute woman who exhibited exemplary moral qualities and became one of the most influential persons of the Islamic history.

A divine marriage After the demise of Hazrat Khadijara, the Holy Prophetsa carried on with his mission and did not pursue to marry anyone for a while. However, he had dreamt that an angel had presented something to him wrapped in silk. He was told that it was his wife in this life and the Hereafter. When he unveiled the silk cover, he saw it was Hazrat Aishara.

When Hazrat Khaulah bint Hakimra advised him to remarry and offered Aisha’s name, the Messengersa of Allah took it as a divine sign and asked her to send the proposal. Hazrat Aishara was first betrothed to Jubair, son of Mutim bin Adi, a non-Muslim friend of Hazrat Abu Bakrra.

Hazrat Abu Bakrra went to his house and enquired if Jubair wished to continue with the marriage. However, Mutim nullified the engagement citing that they would not marry a Muslim. Hazrat Aishara was then married to the Holy Prophetsa, though the union would not be consummated for several years.

A question briefly answered Her age at the time of her marriage has been a controversial topic of debate. There is only one hadith narrated by Hisham which suggests that Hazrat Aishara was nine years old. With reference to her age, the Promised Messiahas stated in one of his writings: “It has been written that she was nine years of age. Firstly, there is no evidence that the Holy Prophetsa stated this, nor has

there been any revelation in regard to this, nor is it substantiated from the Akhbare-Mutawatirah, [sayings of the Prophet Muhammadsa reported by a large number of people] that she was certainly nine years old. It has only been taken from one narrator.” (Nur-ul-Quran, No. 2, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 9, pp. 377-378) Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra also discoursed in The Life and Character of the Seal of the Prophets that she may have been 12 years old.

Modern researchers have debated on the veracity of this Hadith and inferred that she was much older. According to one of the scholars, Hisham mistakenly left out the word “ashara” i.e. “ten”, after the word “tis‘ah”, which means “nine” in Arabic; insinuating that she was 19 years old when she entered the household of her husband.

Moreover, it is narrated by Hazrat Anasra that in the Battle of Uhud, Hazrat Aishara and Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra would carry water and tend to the wounded on the field. The Holy Prophetsa specifically forbade young boys or girls to partake in the battle. The Battle of Uhud took place in 3 AH, and Hazrat Aishara bade farewell to her parents’ home in the second year of Hijrah. If it is to be presumed that she was only 11 years old at the Battle of Uhud, it is incongruous with the command of the Holy Prophetsa.

The fact of the matter is, the Holy Prophetsa did not marry Hazrat Aishara out of lasciviousness or carnal passion (God forbid) as certain orientalists imply; rather, he saw in Hazrat Aishara the future religious scholar who, owing to her young age, would receive a longer opportunity to educate and train Muslim men and women alike. And as the history would later unfold, she became one of the most prolific scholars of her time.

A source of blessings Her abode was a treasure house of blessings. The Holy Prophetsa used to say that among all his wives, it was only in her abode that he received revelation. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 3775) Their union was a product of divine inspiration and the angels would descend upon her and convey their salutations to her. Hazrat Abu Salama narrates the Holy Prophetsa said to Aishara: “Aisha, Gabriel conveys his Salam to you” to which she returned his greetings.

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 3217) It is reported by Ibn-e-Abbasra that once, the Holy Prophetsa enquired from Gabrielas as to why he did not visit him more often. To this, the following verse was revealed, “We [angels] do not come save by the command of thy Lord. [Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.65]” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 3218) It can be deduced from the aforementioned ahadith that it was

Hazrat Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Holy Prophetsa was asked: “'O Messenger of Allah! Who is the most beloved of the people to you?'

The Holy Prophet replied: 'Aisha.'

He was then asked: '(and who is most beloved to you) From among the men?' He replied: 'Her father.'”

Jami` at-Tirmidhi

A

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org

under the command of God Almighty that angels would relate their salutations to her. This further sheds light on the lofty status she held in the eyes of God and the Prophetsa of Islam. It is owing to this that the Holy Prophetsa used to say: “The greatness of Aishara over the rest of the wives is like thareed”, i.e. the superiority that meat has over ordinary food. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 3769) Once Hazrat Aishara lost her necklace and the Muslim army had to camp at a place where there was no water. At the moment, God conferred upon the Muslims the convenience of tayammum.

Hazrat Uzairra bin Huzair told her: “Whenever you encounter a difficulty, Allah took you out of it and brought with it a blessing for the Muslims.” (Sahih alBukhari, Hadith no. 3773) The last companion A unique distinction she holds over the rest of the Prophet’ssa wives is that the Holy Prophetsa spent his last days and hours at her house. The wives of the Messengersa of Allah had unanimously agreed that considering his illness, it was in his best interest to live the rest of his days in Hazrat Aisha’sra house.

His last words were, “[I now go to] Allah, the Most Noble Companion” as his head rested on the bosom of his beloved wife, Aishara. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith no. 4463) Knowledge After the Messengersa of Allah passed away, she played a critical role in the

transmission of knowledge she acquired from her husband. She is the narrator of more than 2,200 ahadith, which today shape the Islamic legal traditions.

She is one of the most compelling figures in the mainstream of Islamic intellectual history. She helped the companions of the Holy Prophetsa in resolving intricate issues and the Holy Prophetsa instructed the believers to learn half of religious knowledge from her.

Her nephew, Hazrat Urwara bin Zubair attested to her knowledge in the following words: “I have never met anyone whose knowledge surpassed Hazrat Aisha’sra. She was the most scholarly person of her time in the Quran, fundamentals of religion, fiqh, poetry, medicine, Arabian history and genealogy.”

Scholars believe that one fourth of Islamic jurisprudence is based on her accounts. Such was her knowledge, which she passed on to the Muslim world.

Demise Hazrat Aishara passed away in 678 AD. In accordance with her wishes, she was buried in Jannat-ul-Baqi alongside the rest of the noble wives of the Holy Prophetsa.

It is narrated on the authority of Hazrat Amr bin Al ‘Asra: “I came to the Holy Prophetsa and asked, ‘Who is the most beloved to you?’

He replied ‘Aisha.’ ‘And who among men?’

I asked. He replied, ‘Her father.’” (Sahih alBukhari, Hadith no. 3662)

18

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

The steadfastness of the Holy Prophet in the face of adversity

Fazal Masood Malik Canada

dversity is one of the most powerful forces in life. It can bring out your A best or your worst. The life of our beloved

Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad Mustafa, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is full of examples that signify the importance of steadfastness in face of adversity. His life is an excellent example of how we can turn the perceived roadblocks of life into a springboard of greatness.

The Holy Prophetsa was raised as an orphan in a city that was merciless.

Meccans knew no empathy, and sympathy was scarce. Although known for his honesty, he was considered an odd person because of the strength of his moral character.

When Allah spoke to him and he started preaching the word of God, the dark elements of society started becoming darker. As the preaching of the Holy Prophetsa progressed and Islam started to spread across the Arabian Peninsula, the persecution of the Quraish increased. When this persecution became unbearable, he advised some of his

followers to migrate to Axum (Ethiopia), a Christian kingdom whose king was known as a just ruler.

The identity of the king is a subject of current research. It is likely that Armah was the king of Axum at the time of migration; however, historians have found recent evidence that presents the possibility that King Armah’s father – Ella-Tsaham – was the king who received the Muslim refugees from Mecca.

Shortly after the migration, Hazrat Hamzara and Hazrat Umarra accepted Islam, further fueling the anger of the Quraish. They decided to boycott the Holy Prophetsa and his followers, as well as the two tribes that supported and protected him, being Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib.

A pact was drawn up that prohibited the Quraish to marry anyone from the two tribes and it forbade all others from conducting any financial transaction. The pact was ratified and came into force once hung on the wall of the Ka‘bah. This was done to ensure that all tribes in Mecca were mindful of the enforced pact.

Fearing retaliation and loss of life for

their members, Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib consulted with Abu Talib and decided that it was safer for them to move out of Mecca. The two tribes sought refuge in a steep valley (Shi‘b) that belonged to Abu Talib; this is known as Shi‘b Abu Talib. The valley was peculiar in nature as it had only one entry and had steep sides, much like a gorge. This complicated the matters further as the believers and the non-believers, for the most part, became captives in the valley.

The boycott started in 616 AD; the prediction of Waraqa bin Nawfal had come true. Waraqa bin Nawfal, cousin of Hazrat Khadijahra had accepted Christianity in the period of Jahiliyya and used to translate the Gospels from Hebrew into Arabic. When the Holy Prophetsa had narrated the incident that occurred at the Cave of Hira in 610 AD, Waraqa forewarned the Prophetsa that a time would come when his tribesmen would oppose him and compel him to leave his home town.

The intention of the Quraish was to compel the Muslims and their helpers to death, at the mercy of the scorching heat

with no expectation of help from anyone.

Despite the secret help of many righteous people, scarcity of food forced them to eat leaves and tree barks. The hungry cries of children could be heard outside the valley and they would soften the hearts of many, who would come to supply the people living in Shi‘b Abu Talib with food, under the cover of night.

The cries of the children and women would shatter the heart of the Holy Prophetsa, who could do nothing to alleviate the suffering of the people; so, he counselled them patience and continue to pray.

Despite the horrendous conditions, the people stood by their support of the Holy Prophetsa who held fast the hand of Allah.

He would often say, “Is it not wondrous how God turns away from me the injuries of the Quraish?” This reflected his complete trust in Allah and strengthened his followers and non-followers alike.

Eventually, by 619 AD, many chiefs had started to raise their voices against the injustice and, through an amazing turn of events, the boycott came to an end. Three years into the siege, one day the Holy Prophetsa informed his uncle, Abu Talib, that God had informed him that apart from where God’s name was mentioned on the pact, the rest was eaten by insects. Abu Talib went to the Quraish, mentioned this and commented that if such was the case, then the agreement must end. Upon checking, they found this to be exactly true. On this, some chiefs among the Quraish tore the remainder of the document and proceeded to the Shi‘b Abu Talib with drawn swords, informing the besieged that the boycott was over and that they could return to their homes under the protection of these chiefs.

The harsh living conditions, long periods of starvation and thirst and utter hopelessness is perhaps a mild description of the situation. The besieged people suffered much loss; the Holy Prophetsa himself suffered the loss of his beloved wife, Hazrat Khadijara and his uncle Abu Talibra. Yet, against all odds, despite the horrendous conditions, the Muslims survived these years. In response to the intense suffering, the Holy Prophetsa humbled himself before God and taught us that the proper response to great suffering is humility and steadfastness.

Throughout the entire episode of Shi‘b Abu Talib, the Holy Prophetsa never stopped inviting people to Allah; the zeal

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM and intensity increased after their return to Mecca, after 3 very long years. Having met with disappointment and frustration in every direction, he decided to proceed to Ta‘if and invite its people to Islam. Ta‘if was a well-known city, with an abundance of affluent population, located about 80 kilometres (2019 measurement) southeast of Mecca.

In Shawwal of 619 AD the Holy Prophetsa journeyed to Ta‘if with Hazrat Zaidra bin Harithah. During the ten days stay in Ta‘if, the Holy Prophetsa met many chiefs but the people of Ta‘if refused to accept his message. At last, the Holy Prophetsa approached the grand chief named Abdu Yalail and invited him to Islam, but he also refused, mockingly observing, “If you are true, I dare not converse with you; if you are false, it is no use talking with you.” Concerned that the youngsters of the city may become influenced by the Holy Prophetsa, he advised him to leave the city because nobody was willing to listen to the message of Islam.

To ensure his exit, Abdu Yalail enticed the mischief mongers of the city to pelt the Holy Prophetsa with stones, due to which the entire body of the Holy Prophetsa became drenched in blood. Hazrat Zaidra bin Harithah would try to come in between the rocks and the Holy Prophetsa as they made their way to the city limits.

With his ruthless enemies retreated to Ta‘if, wounded and drenched in blood, the Holy Prophetsa and Hazrat Zaidra stopped at an orchard about three miles from Ta‘if. It belonged to a Meccan, Utbah bin Rabi‘ah who recognised the duo and offered sanctuary. The Holy Prophetsa took refuge in this orchard.

It is easy to lose your way when you are being battered about, but the man of God, standing in the orchard, prayed before Allah, “O My Lord, I complain to you of my helplessness, and my inability, and my helplessness before the people. O My God, You are the most merciful, for You are the guardian and protector of the feeble and helpless – You are my Lord. I seek refuge in the light of Your countenance. It is You who dispels all darkness and it is You who bestows the inheritance of favour in this world and in the next.”

An orchard worker, a Christian named Addas brought a tray of grapes as a gift from the owners of the orchard. The Holy Prophetsa accepted the gesture and addressed Addas, “Where are you from, and which religion do you follow?” “I am from Nineveh,” responded Addas, “and a Christian.” The Holy Prophetsa enquired, “The same Nineveh, which was home to the righteous servant of God, Jonahas, son of Matthew?” “Yes,” responded Addas, “but how are you aware of Jonahas?” “He was my brother,” said the Holy Prophetsa, “for he was a prophet of Allah, and I am also a prophet of Allah.” Then the Holy Prophetsa preached the message of Islam to him, which moved him greatly. In his passion of sincerity, he moved forward and kissed the hands of the Holy Prophetsa.

The Holy Prophetsa rested in this orchard for some time before continuing his

19

journey home.

Dealing with constant storms can wear down even the most resilient person. The life of our Holy Prophetsa is full of storms that came in full force, attempting to wipe out the few who took the name of God and stood by His messenger. The Battle of Badr, one of the first battles forced upon Muslims who had migrated to Medina, is a classic example that determination in the face of adversity can lead to prayers that move the heavens in favour of the supplicant.

Camped on the dry, solid grounds of Badr, away from the stream that flowed in a mystic rhythm, the Meccan’s were in an excellent position to fight the Muslims.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa advanced towards the stream, camping for the night. The land adjacent to the stream was all sand and unsuitable for battle.

On one side stood over 1,000 skilled Meccan warriors, while on the other, 313 mostly unskilled and untrained

Muslims who were suddenly thrust into a dangerous battle. The anxiety among the Muslims was palpable. The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa also shared this anxiety.

It was the most vulnerable moment for Muslims in the history of Islam. Nothing less than the survival of Islam was at stake.

The Holy Prophetsa retreated to his tent and began his supplications.

As the night progressed, his powerful supplications could be heard across the camps. “O my Allah,” cried the messenger, “over the entire face of the earth at this moment, there are only these 300 men who are devoted to you and determined to establish your worship. O my Allah, if these 300 men die today at the hands of their enemy in this battle, who will be left behind to glorify Your name?”

Muslims gained their strength through the constant supplications of the Holy Prophetsa. By dawn, came the verdict from Allah. “The hosts will soon be routed and turn their backs in flight” declared

the Prophetsa. Before the sunset on 17 Ramadhan 2 AH, Al-Mujeeb, our Lord, our Allah had answered the prayers of His humble servant and the battle which presented defeating odds to Muslims was won in a matter of hours. Not only was Islam saved from extinction, but this battle placed fear at the heart of opponents.

Our beloved Prophetsa is a model of compassion, of extreme sympathy and forgiveness and a mountain in face of adversity. Sometimes, he looms larger than life in our imaginations. Most events from his life can seem intimidating, but his life has lessons for all of us; lessons that are there to make us better human beings, better husbands, fathers and sons.

A review of any event from his life shows us that prayers and full reliance in Allah kept him and his followers right in the centre of God’s Will. It is only by praying and holding the rope of Allah, that we can shine in the darkest of nights.

MKA Sierra Leone holds its Annual Academic rally

Abdul Hadi Qureshi Sierra Leone Correspondent

nder the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V , Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya U Sierra Leone and all its auxiliary aa

organisations are routinely working for the spiritual, moral and academic training of their members. The annual Ijtema and other events are regularly held. Thus, every year the syllabus is prepared and sent to the regions. All regional missionaries, their assigned local missionaries and auxiliary bodies arrange classes and prepare members for the national events.

Alhamdolillah, MKA Sierra Leone held its Annual Academic Rally on 2526 October at the Baitus Subuh Mosque,

which is the Central Ahmadiyya Muslim Mosque in Freetown.

25 October was the first day of the rally and from early morning, Khuddam and Atfal from various regions of the country started gathering at Baitus Subuh compound for this blessed gathering.

This year, all regions held their Ijtemas, so most of the Khuddam and Atfal who came to attend this event were those who took first, second and third positions in their respective regional Ijtemas. After the registration and lodging arrangements, all the participants gathered in the mosque to listen to the live Friday Sermon of Hazrat

Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The inaugural session was held after prayers. The programme was chaired by Maulvi Munir Abu Bakar Yusuf, National Sadr of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Sierra Leone. Mr Minkailu S Tholley recited the Holy Quran followed by the translation which was presented in local Krio language. The National Sadr Sahib led the Khuddam and Atfal in their pledge.

On the first day, the academic competitions were held for Khuddam and Atfal. The competitions included tilawat, Azan, nazm, qaseeda, memorisation of the Holy Quran and a quiz on religious knowledge.

The second day, Khuddam and Atfal took part in speech competitions in the local language.

Maulana Saeed ur Rahman Sahib, Amir and Missionary-in-Charge was the chief guest of the concluding session.

Maulvi Osman A Barrie, the motamid, presented the report. Amir Sahib addressed the gathering and advised them to discharge their duties towards Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and become a hardworking member of the Jamaat and society. He distributed prizes among Khuddam and Atfal and led them in silent prayer.

Freetown region stood first and Maulvi Sulaiman Bangura was declared the best qaid. Mustapha I Koroma from Kenema was the best Khadim and Abdul R Ali from Moyamba was declared the best Tifl.

The total attendance was 697.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to get maximum benefit from such gatherings and that we may become useful members of the Jamaat and of society. Amin.

20

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon Building of mosques and our responsibilities 11 October 2019 After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa recited verse 18 of Surah al-Taubah and then stated:

fter a long period of time, Allah the Almighty has enabled the Ahmadiyya A Muslim Community in France to

construct another mosque. By the Grace of Allah, there is a large number of converts and non-Pakistani Ahmadis in this city of Strasbourg, or rather 75% of the Jamaat are not of Pakistani origin. By the grace of Allah, they are very sincere and loyal and Allah the Almighty has now also granted them a mosque. Now, the Ahmadis residing here can forge an even stronger relationship with the Community than before. May Allah the Almighty enable them to do so.

I will now present the translation of the verse recited at the beginning.

“He alone can keep the Mosques of Allah in a good and flourishing condition who believes in Allah, and the Last Day, and observes Prayer, and pays the Zakat, and fears none but Allah; so these it is who may be among those who reach the goal.” [Surah al-Taubah, Ch.9: V.18] Allah the Almighty has mentioned the characteristic of those who build mosques and populate them which are that they believe in Allah i.e. they have firm and complete faith that God Almighty is the Fountainhead and Master of all powers and that all else beside Him is of no value.

Hence, it is vital to prostrate before Allah the Almighty and to worship Him in order to attain this level of faith. Allah the Almighty increases them in faith and in their level of belief, who bow down before Him. Moreover, belief in the Hereafter is another characteristic or a condition that Allah the Exalted has outlined for those who come to mosques because it is belief in the Hereafter that encourages one to worship Allah the Almighty in order to attain His pleasure. Elucidating on this matter, on one occasion the Promised

Messiahas stated: “Belief in the Hereafter serves as a means to attain divine insight and divine insight cannot be attained without the awe and fear of God. Thus, remember that when a person begins to doubt the Hereafter, this puts a person’s faith in danger and taints the prospects of a good end.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 53-54) In other words, under such circumstances, one is no longer guaranteed a good end, nor is there certainty that such an individual will remain faithful. Thus, a true worshiper and one who populates mosques never entertains any doubt in his heart about the Hereafter and remains ever inclined towards Allah the Almighty in order to attain a good end.

Only those individuals can truly derive benefit from constructing mosques and populating them who observe the prayer. Moreover, they proclaim that they have not merely constructed a mosque to

show others that they too have a mosque, rather it becomes their duty to offer the five daily prayers. [In this verse] Allah the Almighty has mentioned that one must observe prayer, and by observing prayer it means to offer them in congregation.

Then attention has been directed towards paying the Zakat [almsgiving] and offering financial sacrifices. Hence, offering sacrifices for the propagation of the religion of Allah the Almighty and to fulfil the rights of the creation of Allah should be distinct qualities of those who populate mosques. All of this is done so that the fear of Allah the Almighty increases in our hearts and so that we try our level best to acquire His pleasure.

Allah the Almighty states that those who fulfil these conditions are the ones who will be considered amongst the guided ones. Hence, we should always pray for this and strive in order to achieve this whilst prostrating before God Almighty.

Both, the new Ahmadi converts and those who are Ahmadi by birth ought to bear this in mind, in fact, those who have been Ahmadis for a long time, especially those that have come from Pakistan, have a greater responsibility of being mindful of the fact that they have to establish good examples for the new Ahmadis. Therefore, whilst adopting this mind-set and acting in accordance with these commandments, one ought to pray that Allah the Almighty may grant them the ability to populate the mosques and be counted amongst those who are the guided ones.

It should not be the case that owing to our negligence and weaknesses we ruin our life in this world and the Hereafter as a result of not acting in accordance with this commandment of Allah the Almighty, which is regarding those who populate the mosque.

May Allah the Almighty have mercy on us, protect us from going astray, continue to guide us on the right path and always keep our intentions pure and virtuous. May we fulfil the rights of God and become those who convey the message of God’s religion to the people of this area.

After having constructed this mosque, may we act in accordance with the guidance of the appointed Promised Messiahas, and thus make this mosque a means for the propagation of Islam. May God Almighty shower His blessings upon us and enable us to fulfil the saying of the Holy Prophetsa in which he stated that whoever builds a mosque for the sake of Allah the Almighty, He will in turn build a similar house for him in paradise. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Salat, Hadith no.

450) Thus, may Allah the Almighty enable us to become true believers and continue to shower His blessings upon us.

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM In order to achieve this, every Ahmadi must first and foremost evaluate the condition of their prayers as to whether or not they are mindful of offering the five daily prayers regularly and also whether or not they are offering prayers in congregation. It is not sufficient to merely claim to have a built a mosque and consider this alone to be a means of securing an abode in paradise, rather in order to achieve this, faith must be accompanied with deeds. It is also necessary to follow the commandments of Allah the Almighty. It is also imperative to do true justice of being in the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas.

Each year, Muslims build thousands of mosques, however, if sermons are delivered on sectarianism instead of discussing how one ought to have fear of Allah the Almighty and fulfil the rights of His creation; if discussions are merely held on personal vested interests; or if the so-called scholars are giving rise to harmful innovations which have no relevance with the traditions of the Holy Prophetsa, then such mosques do not lead towards paradise in the sight of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa.

Thus, to fulfil the rights of a mosque, to make it the means of leading a person to paradise and to have a house built for oneself in paradise are huge responsibilities. Therefore, every Ahmadi should understand these responsibilities, try to act in accordance with them and endeavour to fulfil the due rights of a mosque. Furthermore, it is necessary to understand and act in accordance with the guidance granted to us by the ardent devotee of the Holy Prophetsa, who has guided us in this era on how to become a true Muslim, how to fulfil the rights of our worship and mosques and how we can fulfil the rights of the creation of Allah the Almighty. Only then will we be able to say that we have firm and complete faith in Allah the Almighty; we have complete faith and certainty in the Day of Judgement; we establish our prayers in order to acquire the pleasure of Allah the Almighty and that we also sacrifice our wealth in order to fulfil the rights of the creation of Allah the Almighty.

The only fear we should have is the fear of God because we have love for Him; we do not fear anything in this material world, nor do we love any worldly object in the same manner as we love Allah the Almighty; we are those, who sacrifice their worldly interests for the sake of our faith and religion.

I will present some of the guidance of the Promised Messiahas, which he has given us in order to become true Ahmadis and true servants of Allah the Almighty.

The Promised Messiahas states: “None of the faculties (such as hands, feet, eyes, the mind) endowed by Allah Almighty have been granted to man so that they may be wasted; rather, their discipline and proper use is the true means by which they are nourished and developed (how can they be nourished?

This is through their proper use and not through any misuse of them). This is why Islam has not taught that the faculties of

virility be slaughtered completely or that the eye be gouged out. Instead, it teaches their proper use and the purification of one’s inner self.”

It does not teach that since a person will be inclined towards leering, therefore the eyes should be removed, rather they should be used appropriately, it should not be the case that one should destroy their faculty of virility. Rather the true deed is to use them in a pious and appropriate manner.

“In this respect, Allah the Almighty states: ُ ْ َ َْ َ ‫ق ْد افل َح ال ُم ْؤ ِمنوْ َن‬ ‘Surely, success does come to the believers.’

Then, after illustrating the life of a righteous person, God Almighty draws a conclusion in the following words: ْ ْ َ ُ ‫َواولٰٓ ِئک ُہ ُم ال ُمف ِل ُحوْ َن‬ ‘And it is they who shall prosper.’”

First God Almighty explained the qualities of a believer and stated: ُ ْ َ َْ َ ‫ق ْد افل َح ال ُم ْؤ ِمنوْ َن‬ And then stated: ْ ْ َ ُ ‫اولٰٓ ِئک ُہ ُم ال ُمف ِل ُحوْ َن‬ “That is to say, those who tread the path of righteousness; those who believe in the unseen; those who establish or set upright their Prayer when it begins to fall as it were; (i.e. when other thoughts appear during the prayer, they maintain their concentration again) those who give from that which is bestowed to them by God; those who, irrespective of their own thoughts and desires, believe in all the divine scriptures sent by God, (since God has stated to believe in all the scriptures, they believe in them), such people ultimately attain to the level of certainty. It is these very people who are truly guided and who tread a path that goes on to lead a person to success. Therefore, it is such people who are triumphant and who shall reach their final destination, and who have been delivered from the perils of the journey before them.”

The Promised Messiahas then says: “Hence, from the very outset, Allah the Almighty has given us a teaching of righteousness and bestowed upon us a book, which also provides counsel on how to develop piety. And so, let my community grieve, more than anything else, over whether they possess righteousness or not.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 35) How can one determine whether or not they possess Taqwa [righteousness] and who is truly a muttaqi [righteous person]? Expounding upon this, the Promised Messiahas states: “The Word of God states that the righteous are those who walk with humility and modesty, and do not speak arrogantly (i.e. they are humble and have no sign of arrogance in them). They speak as though they were a lowly person addressing their senior. In any case, we should act in a manner that brings about our prosperity.

None can claim a monopoly over Allah Almighty, for He desires righteousness alone. One who adopts righteousness shall attain a lofty status.”

The Promised Messiahas states: “The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, or Abraham, on

21 whom be peace, did not receive honour by any inheritance. Although we believe that Abdullah, the revered father of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was not an idolater, but it was not on this account that the Prophet of Islam was conferred his prophethood.

Prophethood was endowed to him by divine grace due to the virtues present in his nature. This is what drew in God’s grace. It was sincerity and righteousness which led Abraham, on whom be peace, the Father of the Prophets, to sacrifice his son without hesitation. Even he himself was cast into a fire. Just reflect upon the sincerity and devotion of our Chief and Master, Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. The Holy Prophetsa stood firm against all forms of evil. He bore diverse trials and tribulations, but did not care in the least. It was this sincerity and devotion which moved Allah the Almighty to shower His grace. It is for this reason that He states: َّ ُ َ َّ َ ُّ َ َ ُّ ُ ّٰ َ ‫ِا ّن الل َہ َو َم ٰٓل ِئک َت ٗہ یُ َصلوْ َن َعلى الن ِب ِ ّی ٰٓیا ّی َہا ال ِذیْ َن ٰا َمنوْا َصلوْا َعل ْی ِہ‬ َ ّ ‫َو َس ِل ُموْا ت ْس ِل ْی ًما‬ ‘Allah Almighty and all His angels send blessings upon the Messenger. O ye who believe! You also should invoke blessings and peace upon the Prophetsa.’

[Surah al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.57)” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 37) Thus, we have been commanded that if we wish for our prayers to be granted acceptance then we must recite the Durood [invoking salutation on the Holy Prophetsa]. Without reciting the Durood, one’s supplications cannot reach to the heavens and nor can one attain any form of success. Therefore, in order to improve one’s standard of worship and to attain the nearness of God Almighty, one must recite the Durood. Indeed, one who recites the Durood will naturally be mindful of the noble example of the Holy Prophetsa.

What did the Holy Prophetsa say regarding the prayers and what instruction did he impart to his followers? The Holy Prophetsa stated that Salat was the delight of his eyes. (Sunan Al-Nisai, Kitab Ashratul-Nisa, Hadith no. 3391) Similarly, the Holy Prophetsa established such an example in regard to fulfilling the rights of Allah’s creation that the likes of which cannot be found.

The Holy Prophetsa did not show any concern for his own personal welfare, rather whatever he had, even if the wealth was equal to the size of a field, he would distribute it amongst people and anyone who came to him seeking help, would never leave emptyhanded. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Fadhail, Hadith no. 2312) Aside from this, the Holy Prophetsa was always willing and ready to extend his hand to help mankind. Therefore, when one recites the Durood whilst keeping in view the noble example of the Holy Prophetsa, only then can one’s attention remain focused on seeking to emulate the perfect examples established by the Holy Prophetsa. When one develops this condition then God Almighty, owing to our expression of love by reciting the Durood on the beloved Prophetsa of God,

accepts our supplications. It is only then that we can attain the nearness of God Almighty and demonstrate meekness and humility; and become counted amongst those who tread on the path of righteousness and it is these people who will ultimately prosper.

The Promised Messiahas states: “If one possess only verbal claims then remember that this is of no benefit. In order to succeed, one must adopt Taqwa (if one wishes to succeed then they must become a righteous person). True Taqwa enables one to attain the cognisance of God Almighty and to adhere to His commandments.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p.

232) In regard to the reality of prayer and describing the condition of true prayer, the Promised Messiahas states: “There are many people who verbally profess their belief in God. However on further investigation it becomes evident that they are in fact atheists. The reason for this is that when they are busy in their worldly pursuits, they overlook the wrath and grandeur of God. Hence, it is vital that every single one of you should pray to God Almighty to seek true cognisance of His existence. However, that can only be attained when one realises that abandoning God is tantamount to death.

“When one prays to abstain from sin, at the same time one should never forsake the measures required to achieve this. To seek prayer and to exert one’s own physical efforts are both essential. You should eschew every assembly and gathering that incites one to commit sin.”

Every one of you can assess for himself that which kind of gatherings, meetings, television programmes, etc. incite one towards sin and therefore must be abandoned. One must not only abandon them but also pray in this regard because it is only owing to the grace of God Almighty that one can abandon such ills.

“Behold! Unless one has the succour of God Almighty, one can never evade those trials that are destined for him.

“Prayer which is offered five times in the day alludes to this very truth in that until it is not protected from one’s inner passions and thoughts it will certainly not be considered true prayer. Prayer certainly does not mean to simply go through the physical motions and to offer it merely as a ritual or as a customary practise. Prayer is where one’s heart feels the soul melt and in an extreme state of fear falls at the threshold of God. “To whatever extent possible in one’s own efforts, one should try and instil a state of intense fervour and supplicate with complete humility to become free from insolence and sin which is found in one’s nature. Such is the prayer which is full of blessings. If one perseveres in this way then soon a moment shall appear, either in the day or in the night, where one shall witness that a spiritual light has descended upon their heart and the brazen nature of Nafs-e-Amara [the soul that incites to evil] has reduced. Just as a snake carries venomous poison so too does the Nafs-e-Amara [the soul that incites to evil] and thus He Who has

22 created it also has its antidote.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 123) In other words, it is God Almighty Alone, Who can safeguard one from such ill, thus one should always seek the blessings of Allah the Almighty.

Expounding on the importance of prayer, the Promised Messiahas states that Salat is the essence of prayer and without it one cannot fulfil the due rights of Allah the Almighty. Thus, one should remember that without Salat, or adhering to the methods prescribed by God Almighty, one cannot fulfil the due rights of God Almighty. Also, Salat entails various conditions which must be fulfilled.

Whilst observing Salat, one should always remember that they should stand before Allah the Almighty with utmost respect and courtesy; humility; full concentration and seek the blessings of God Almighty.

Further expounding on the condition of Salat, the Promised Messiahas states: “Once I was pondering over the difference between Salat and prayer [in general]. In the Hadith, it states that: ُ ٰ َّ َ ُ َ ُّ َ ُ ٰ َّ َ َ ‫وۃ ُم ُّخ الْع َب‬ ‫الصلوۃ ِھی الدعاء۔ الصل‬ ‫ادۃ‬ ِ ‘Salat is a form of prayer and it is the essence of prayer.’ When a person prays solely for worldly material, it is not called Salat.”

A person supplicates, attends the mosque, begins to offer the five daily prayers and demonstrates fervency in his prayers, but the reason is only because he faces certain worldly difficulties.

Therefore, if one only prays for worldly gains, it cannot be called Salat.

“However, when one prays with the intention to seek communion with God Almighty, win His pleasure and stands before Allah the Almighty with utmost courtesy, humility and concentration, but not for his own personal reasons, rather to seek the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, that is, when it is called Salat.”

One does not seek for any personal gains, rather his objective is to seek the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. “True prayer is when a sincere and holy relationship is established with God and the worshipper”, this is the means through which one can attain the nearness of God Almighty, “and safeguards one from inappropriate things.

The main objective is that one should seek the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, thereafter it is permissible for one to pray for their worldly needs.”

Thus, one should first pray to attain the pleasure of God Almighty and then they may pray for their worldly needs because they too can only be attained through His grace.

“This is so because at times, one’s worldly difficulties can affect one’s religious affairs, particularly during such difficult and challenging times through which the world is passing.” When a person is weak and facing difficulty, then their worldly affairs can be the means for them to stumble. Thus, one should first forge a relationship with Allah the Almighty and then also pray for their worldly needs as well.

The Promised Messiahas states, “The word ‘Salat’ alludes to burning just like

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM something burns in fire. Thus, one’s level of fervency in prayer should be similar to this state of burning. When one reaches this state as if one is nearing death that is true Salat.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, pp. 367-368) Thus, this is the reality of Salat which we should all try to attain; may God Almighty grant us the opportunity to do so.

Further explaining this, the Promised Messiahas states: “If one claims to be a believer then it is essential for them to offer prayers. It is wrong to only offer Salat only three or four times and yet claim to be a believer because Salat is the very root of faith.

One who is empty of this root is like a hollow tree which will be uprooted at the mere blowing of a breeze.” The Promised Messiahas states, “Just like on a hot day, clouds gather together and it begins to rain; similar is the case of one’s Salat.

The intense passion of faith enables one to accomplish what they are seeking for.

Salat is when one stands before Allah the Almighty with intense fervency and passion and courtesy. Despite being a servant of God, if a person then shows negligence, then God Almighty is selfsufficient (and He shows no concern).

Any nation will only survive so long as they remain focused on forming a relationship with God Almighty. Prayer is the foundation of faith. Some foolish individuals question why does God Almighty need our prayers?”

The Promised Messiahas says: “O foolish ones! God Almighty is not in need of anything, rather it is you who are in need of prayers and for God Almighty to turn His attention towards you. Every incomplete task can be accomplished if God Almighty is with you. Prayer can remove thousands of sins and become a source of gaining nearness to God Almighty.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7. p.

378) To attain the nearness of God, to have one’s sins forgiven and to fulfil one’s uncompleted task is not restricted to prayer alone. In fact, regarding those who go to the mosque with sincerity and wait for the prayers, the Holy Prophetsa says that when a person remains in wait for the prayer in the mosque, it will be as if he is preoccupied in prayer. If a person remembers God Almighty whilst sitting in the mosque, it will be as if they are engaged in worship and the angels will send down their blessings on that person by saying: “O Allah, have mercy on him and forgive him, accept his repentance.”

(Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Masajid, Hadith no. 649) How great is the reward for the one who offers their prayers in the mosque?

The reward is not only for praying in the mosque, rather even the person who is waiting for the prayer to begin receives a reward from God Almighty, and the angels pray for that individual. Thus, we ought to show great concern in order to fulfil the rights of worship of such a benevolent God and attend the mosque for the five daily prayers.

Whilst explaining the fact that the purpose of religion is to establish unity

and create one community, the Promised Messiahas says: “Allah desires to make all mankind as if they were all one person. This could also be called a democratic singularity. Under this concept the diverse mankind could be considered as one individual. The purpose of religion is also that the human race be united in the form of the beads of a tasbeeh (rosary) through one thread.

“The congregational prayers, or Salat, is also for such unification so that all the worshipers are counted as one. The reason why we are prescribed to stand shoulder to shoulder is so that whoever has greater wisdom or spiritual charisma is able to influence the weak. It is hoped that spiritual influence of the wise will diffuse into the weak. The Hajj is also for the same plan.

Allah started the plan of democratic singularity by instructing that all Muslims of a locality should say the five prayers in congregation in the local mosque. So that the moral qualities can be exchanged and the wisdom and light replace weaknesses. By such interaction Muslims are introduced to each other and develop affection for one other. Such introduction is very important as that leads to affection which is the basis of the unification.

To the extent that an enemy that one is aware of is better than a friend who he knows nothing about. When one meets a person in a foreign land and they become acquainted, then a natural affection is formed in the hearts. The reason for this is that when one is away from the location where the feud originated, which is only a temporary emotion, it then no longer exists and all that remains is their mutual acquaintance.

“The second Divine instruction is that on Friday for the Friday prayer Muslims should gather in the main mosque of the township. It is hard for all the people of the town to get together on a daily basis.

Therefore, it was suggested that all the citizens of a town should at least weekly get acquainted with each other and promote unity.”

If, here, the distances are greater, then for those who have conveyance can easily come to the mosque every day.

Furthermore, if one has the intention of populating the mosque, then they will also go to the mosque. Nevertheless, even if someone is living far and is compelled, then it is vital for them to come for the Friday Prayer.

“By such a scheme, eventually, all of them will unite in one body or singularity.

Then on an annual basis Allah has prescribed that the Eid prayers be said at a regional level so that acquaintance and affection grows wider and helps in the process of democratic singularity.

“In the same theme, for the unity of the whole world, Allah has prescribed to perform Hajj at least once in one’s lifetime so that representatives of all people assemble together in the expanse of Mecca”, i.e. those who have the capacity to perform the Hajj ought to go for Hajj. “In summary, this is Allah’s desire that affection and love among mankind progresses.”

Then, regarding his opponents, the Promised Messiahas says that they are completely oblivious to the philosophy of Islam. Those who are opposed to Islam are unaware of the reality of these matters, yet they raise allegations against the five daily prayers and why Muslims have to offer Friday Prayer once a week and the purpose of the Eid prayers, etc. The Promised Messiahas says that there is a philosophy behind these prayers and we ought to bear it in mind. He further says: “There is no carelessness in the commands of God Almighty and to abstain from them completely is never possible.”

The Promised Messiahas says, “They are oblivious to the great philosophy of Islam.

One may show negligence or carelessness towards fulfilling obligations of ones superiors in a worldly capacity, however, it is not possible to show negligence and to abstain completely from the commands of God. Irrespective of the level of faith of the Muslim, he will at least offer the Eid prayers. The benefit of all these gatherings is that spiritual radiance of one would have an impact on the other and thus would strengthen them.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, pp. 129-130) When people meet and interact with one another, it certainly has an impact.

However, this is for those people who are very weak in their faith. True faith is that one ought to offer their five daily prayers in the mosque.

Now that Allah the Almighty has granted you this mosque, you ought to exemplify the aforementioned example of unity by gathering together, especially those who have the ease of a conveyance.

Derive the blessings of God by populating the mosque, then God Almighty will grant His favours. As mentioned previously that God Almighty appoints the angels to pray for the person who goes to offer the five daily prayers [in the mosque].

Furthermore, God Almighty has stated that prayer in congregation is 27 times more blessed. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul-Adhan, Hadith no. 645) Thus, if God Almighty has outlined these favours and despite having the opportunity, we do not value them, then it will be most unfortunate. Every Ahmadi ought to ponder over this and they must strive to come to the mosque.

The Promised Messiahas says, “O ye people who consider yourselves members of my community! You will be counted as such in heaven when you truly tread upon the ways of righteousness. So, offer the five daily prayers in such fear and with such complete attention as though you were actually beholding God Almighty.

Sincerely observe your fasts for the sake of God. Let everyone who is liable to pay the Zakat do so and anyone upon whom the Hajj has become obligatory and who face no hindrance ought to perform the pilgrimage. Do good in a handsome manner and discard vice with disgust.

Bear well in mind that no action of yours, which is empty of righteousness, can reach God. Righteousness is the root of all goodness. No action that is rooted in righteousness will go in vain.”

The Promised Messiahas further says:

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM “Whenever harm befalls you, it will be from your own hands and not from the hands of your enemy. Even if you lose all honour on earth, God will bestow eternal honour upon you in heaven. So do not forsake Him.” The Promised Messiahas continues, “You are the last community of God, so practice virtue at its best. Anyone of you who becomes slothful will be cast out of the community like a foul thing and will die in regret and will be able to do no harm to God. I gladly inform you that your God truly exists. Though all are His creation, but He chooses the one who chooses Him. He comes to the one who goes to Him. He bestows honour upon him who honours Him” i.e. to man. (Kishti-e-Nuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 15) May Allah the Almighty enable us to understand these heartfelt words of the Promised Messiahas and enable us to increase in our faith. May He enable us to fulfil the rights of worship and enable us to form an active connection with God Almighty, and may He enable us to keep this mosque populated.

I will now present some details regarding the mosque.

By the grace of Allah, a concerted effort was made for this mosque a few years ago and God Almighty granted us this site, which is a total of 2,640 square meters. There is an existing three-storey building which has 15 rooms and a large hall. In order to purchase this, a loan was taken from the Markaz [headquarters] at the time.

Amir Sahib [National President] says that now almost all of it has been repaid with the exception of 50,000 euros.

The council raised various concerns which were resolved in subsequent meetings. During various meetings with the mayor, the plans were submitted and, by the grace of Allah, they were approved.

According to the plans and sketches that were submitted, the architect estimated that the cost of the project would be one million euros, which Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya France pledged to give and took this on as their responsibility.

However, by the grace of Allah, this mosque was completed in 530,000 euros.

At present, Majlis Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya France have given 350,000 euros and the remaining was paid by the Jamaat [headquarters]. Khuddam-ulAhmadiyya France have pledged that they will pay the remaining amount.

Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya have vowed to fulfil this and will, God willing, fulfil it, but why is the rest of the Jamaat abstaining from partaking in this? If this mosque has now been completed, then the Lajna and Ansar should work together to build a mosque and they ought to construct another mosque within three years.

For the construction of this mosque, a committee was formed consisting of Mr Aslam Doobory Sahib, Shahbaz Sahib and Muhammad Asim Sahib. According to their report, Mansoor Sahib has worked very hard in this project, may Allah the Almighty reward him.

The official capacity of this mosque is for 250 worshippers, which the

23

council has worked out according to its calculations, there is also a car park for 50 cars, one office for the Jamaat, a office for Lajna, a library for men and women and there is adequate lavatory facilities.

The large parking hall is covered and if there is ever an emergency, there is space for a further 125 people to offer prayers there. The pre-existing building contains 15 rooms which were renovated and now can be used.

This mosque is situated approximately 15 kilometres from Strasbourg. This is not a great distance whereby one cannot come to mosque, in fact one can easily reach. The covered area for the mosque

and halls is 303 square meters. There is also a house for the missionary, as well as a four-bedroom guest house. Permission was not granted for the construction of a minaret, nevertheless, permission was given for a dome to be built, which sits at a height of 8 metres and is located to the right side of the mosque which looks very beautiful and is part of the mosque’s feature. Inside, however, all the features are present including a mihrab and the inside of the dome has also been adorned with calligraphy.

May God Almighty bless it in every respect and may He greatly bless the progeny and wealth of those Khuddam

who sacrificed in order to construct this mosque. May this sacrifice not be limited to financial sacrifice alone; may God Almighty enable them to understand the spirit of populating mosques. May God Almighty elevate the level of worship of the Khuddam and also elevate the levels of worship of the rest of the Jamaat members.

(Original Urdu published in Al Fazl International, 1 November 2019, pp. 5-8.Translated by The Review of Religions)

2019 National Majlis-e-Shura MKA USA Talha Saifi Mohtamim Ishaat MKA USA

On Saturday, 5 October, Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya USA held their 2019 National Majlis-e-Shura in Baitur Rahman, Silver Spring, Maryland.

The event formally commenced at 9am with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the declaration of the Khuddam pledge by all delegates.

Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya, Dr Madeel Abdullah Sahib, delivered a welcome address and etiquettes of Majlis-eShura. In his address, Dr Madeel Abdullah Sahib referred to the guidance of the founder of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, alMusleh al-Maudra.

After that, the implementation reports of the previous year’s Shura proposals were delivered by the respectively allocated chairpersons, secretaries and department Mohtamimin. Following these implementation reports, the proposals for this year’s Majlis-e-Shura were presented by Muavin Sadr, Naim Muhammad Sahib.

In total, 20 proposals were presented to the national amila by members throughout the country, across many different departments. Of these proposals, five had been proposed to and approved by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa for discussion.

At around 10:30am, the sub-committees were formed, based on delegates being

nominated by delegates, as well as special appointments by Sadr Majlis. After a short break, the sub-committees that had been formed were able to deliberate over their respective proposals.

After the Zuhr and Asr prayers were combined, a group photo was taken.

Afterwards, a delicious lunch was served for all to enjoy – lovingly prepared by the exceptional and well-regarded chefs of MKA USA’s Ziafat team.

After lunch, the sub-committees continued their deliberations. To keep the size of sub-committees to a reasonable number and allowing discussions to be manageable and meaningful, there were inevitably a number of unallocated delegates. Therefore, in parallel to the subcommittee deliberations, a taribiyat and open question and answer session was held with missionaries as well.

The plenary and closing session of the Shura commenced at 4:45pm, with tilawat. The sub-committee chairmen along with their secretaries presented their summary reports of the deliberations and recommendations made. The floor was then opened up for questions, comments and suggested additions and amendments to the recommendations. The proposals were then voted upon for approval to be sent to Huzooraa for review and approval.

Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered at 7pm and dinner was served afterwards.

As per tradition, the outgoing members of national amila of Majlis Khuddamul-Ahmadiyya – those entering Majlis Ansarullah – who had rendered significant services towards the Majlis in their time as Khuddam, were presented with tokens of appreciation, including a special plaque.

The plenary and closing session reconvened at 8:20pm. Once all proposals had been presented and reviewed by the Shura delegates, a few closing remarks were given by Dr Madeel Abdullah Sahib, in which he thanked all the Majlis for their support and hard work. Sadr Sahib then led the congregation in silent prayer, thereby concluding the final session with five proposals along with the budget being approved for submission to Huzooraa.

The following day, on Sunday, 6 October, a couple of parallel sessions were held. One was training on bias and diversity. The other one was Umoomi training. Afterwards, the delegates and guests of Majlis-e-Shura made their way home. Insha-Allah, this Majlise-Shura will shape the coming year and beyond for MKA USA with a desire and passion to seek continuous improvement.

A summary report of key activities and reports of various departments from the previous year of MKA USA was shared with all delegates. All of the humble efforts made by the Majlis are humble sacrifices in the way of Allah.

24

Friday 8 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

The eventful and blessed life of our Holy Master, Hazrat Muhammad Mustafasa The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was born in the same year in which Abraha of Yemen attacked the Ka‘bah. Historian Mahmud Pasha Falki, the renowned mathematician, has calculated this year to be 571 CE, agreed upon by many authentic works on the history of Arabia. The date is said to be around 20 April on the Gregorian calendar, while the dates marked on the Islamic calendar are estimated to be on or between 9 and 12 Rabi‘ al-Awwal.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa was called to prophethood by Allah the Almighty at the age of 40 and from then started the most remarkable chapter of human history, a brief sketch of which is outlined below: The Meccan Years: 1st year – 610: Beginning of the revelation of the Holy Quran 5th year – 614: First migration to Abyssinia 7th year – 615: Siege of Shi‘b Abu Talib; The miracle of the splitting of the moon 10th year – 619: Demise of Hazrat Khadijara and Hazrat Abu Talib; The Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa Nikah with Hazrat Aishara and Hazrat Saudahra; Journey to Ta‘if.

11th year – 620: Meeting with people of Yathrab (later Medina-tun-Nabi, more commonly Medina) 12th year – 621: Mi‘raj (spiritual ascension) 13th year – 622: Bai‘at (initiation) Aqabah Thaniah; Migration to Medina The Medinan Years: 1st year – 622: Arrival at Medina; Established Masjid-e-Quba and Masjid-eNabawi; The beginning of Azan (the call to prayer); Establishment of brotherhood between Ansar (local residents of Medina) and Muhajirin (the migrants from Mecca); Signed treaty with Jews of the area 2nd year – 623: Change of the qiblah; Received divine commandments regarding Ramadan; First Eid-ul-Fitr; Battle of Badr; Married Hazrat Aishara 3rd year – 624: The Battle of Qainuqa; First Eid-ul-Adha; Nikah of Hazrat Alira with Hazrat Fatimara; Marriage of Hazrat Usmanra with the Holy Prophet’ssa daughter Umm-e-

Kulthumra; The Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa marriage to Hazrat Hafsahra; Battle of Uhud 4th year – 625: The incidents of Raji and Bi‘r-e-Maunah (where a number of the Holy Prophet’ssa companions were betrayed and martyred); The expulsion of Banu Nadir from Medina; The Holy Prophet’ssa marriage to Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra; Battle of Badrul-Mauid 5th year – 626: Battle of Daumat-ul-Jandal; Lunar eclipse in Medina and the eclipse prayer; Battle of Banu Mustaliq; The incident of Ifk (false accusation against Hazrat Aishara); Battle of the Ditch; Battle of Banu Quraizah 6th year – 627: Battle of Banu Lahyan; Acceptance of Islam by Sumamah bin Uthal, a chief of Yamamah; Acceptance of Islam by Abu al-Asra (later the Holy Prophet’ssa sonin-law); The treaty of Hudaibiyah; Bai‘at-eRizwan 7th year – 628-629: Letters to various kings inviting them to Islam; Battle of Zi Qird; Battle of Khaybar; Marriage to Hazrat Safiyyahra; Treaty with the people of Fidaq; Conspiracy to poison the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa; Return of migrants from Abyssinia; Acceptance of Islam by Hazrat Abu Hurairahra; Battle of Zatur Riqa; Umratul-Qada 8th year – 629: Battle of Mu‘tah; Conquest of Mecca; Battle of Hunain; Battle of Ta’if; Arrival of Arab delegations to the Holy Prophetsa 9th year – 630: The Battle of Tabuk; Arrival of

more Arab delegations; Death of Abdullah bin Ubayy (the notorious hypocrite); Acceptance of Islam by the people of Ta‘if; Muslims offer their first Hajj led by Hazrat Abu Bakrra 10th year – 631: Acceptance of Islam by the chief Adi bin Hatim Tai; Dispatch of Hazrat

Abu Musara and Hazrat Muazra to Yemen; Hajjatul-Wida (the last Hajj performed by the Holy Prophetsa) 11th year – 632: Arrival of the last foreign delegation; The Holy Prophet’ssa final illness; Sariyya (troop) led by Hazrat Usama bin Zaidra. The sad demise of the Holy Prophetsa

Face2Face 2019 3rd Season

Starting 10 November at 19:00 GMT

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