Tariq Magazine (Volume 13, Issue 2) by Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK

Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad in Mulaqaat with Majlis–e–Amila on 16th November 2008 at Fazl Mosque, London.

2 | Tariq Magazine

Tariq Magazine Volume 13 • Issue 2 • February 2009

The oﬃcial publication of: Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Baitul Futuh, 181 London Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5HF Tel 020 8687 7843 Fax 020 8687 7889

Editorial Tommy Kallon Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Aziz Ahmad Haﬁz Naib Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and Chief Editor Nadimur Rahman Mohtamim Isha’at Irfan Chaudhry Design & typesetting

Contents 1 Words of Wisdom The Holy Qur’an Hadith Writings of the Promised Messiah а

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2 Editorial Message from Sadr Majlis: Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Pledge Editorial

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3 Islam The Holy Prophet’s Love of Allah Salat al–Jumu’ah — The Friday Prayer

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4 Ahmadiyyat, the Renaissance of Islam Khilafat Centenary Musha’irah Khilafat Centenary Tree Plantations Khilafat Centenary 100 Cyclists Khilafat Centenary Football Tournament The Khilafat Centenary Ascent of Ben Nevis

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5 National Khuddam Ijtema Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Ijtema 2008

6 Regional Khuddam Ijtemas Baitul Futuh Regional Ijtema Middlesex Regional Ijtema North West Regional Ijtema East Regional Ijtema Midlands Regional Ijtema

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7 News and Events Majlis–e–Shura Mulaqat with Huzur Inauguration of Masjid Al–Mahdi, Bradford National Qaideen Forum Faith in Youth My Trip to The Gambia Fulcrum Africa Scotland Tarbiyyat Forum Charity Challenge 2009 — THE MKA10K

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8 Letters and Comments Sighting of the New Moon

All correspondence should be forwarded directly to: The Editor, Tariq Magazine Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Baitul Futuh, 181 London Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5HF Tariq Magazine is published by Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, the youth organisation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association in Islam. Some of the views expressed by contributors may not be the representative views of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, or the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Association is a registered charity, UK Charity Reg No. 299081

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1 Words of Wisdom The Holy Qur’an “And never did We send a Prophet to any town but We seized the people thereof with adversity and suffering, that they might become humble. Then We changed their evil condition into good until they grew in affluence and number and said, ‘Suffering and happiness betided our fathers also.’ Then We seized them suddenly, while they perceived not”. The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 7, Verses 95–96

This verse refers to a general law that God invariably operates whenever a Prophet of God makes his appearance. The advent of every Prophet is attended in an extraordinary manner with calamities and miseries of diverse kinds that afflict mankind in order to serve as an eye-opener for the people. If the Messenger of God is raised for a particular people, then only that people are made to suffer, but if he is raised for the whole world, then the whole world is visited by afflictions and disasters. These afflictions are meant as warnings and are intended to awaken the people. Two things may be inferred from this verse (1) that general

disasters do not overtake people unless a Prophet of God has ﬁrst been raised (2) that it never happens that the advent of a Prophet of God is not accompanied by calamities of a general nature. The words good condition and evil condition are not used here in their moral sense, but in the sense of straitness and plenty. It is the case that when the afﬂictions and miseries which come upon a disbelieving people, as a result of their rejection of a Prophet of God, pass away, making people feel at ease and comfortable again. Then, instead of improving their condition and turning to God in

repentance, they refuse to recognize the past aﬄictions as heavenly visitations as signs of the truth of their Prophet. On the contrary, they begin to say that they were merely normal occurrences of nature which even their forefathers experienced in their time but which then passed away. Commentary from Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad “The Holy Qur’an with English translation and commentary”, volume 2, pages 809–810

Hadith The Holy Prophet said: Gabriel informed me that every successive prophet has lived to half the age of his predecessor. And verily Jesus, son of Mary, lived to 120 years. Therefore, I think I may reach the age of sixty. Kanzulummal, volume 11, page 479 Note: The full name of this book of Hadith is ‘Kanz al’Ummal ﬁ Sunan al-Aqwal wa’l Af ’al’ which translates as ‘Treasure of the Doers of Good Deeds’ is a well known Hadith compilation, collected by the Islamic Scholar Shaikh ‘Ala al-Din ‘Ali al-Muttaqi al-Hindi (d. 975 AH/1568 CE). 4 | Tariq Magazine

There is another important statement by the Holy Prophet . During his last illness, the Holy Prophet said to his daughter Hadhrat Fatima , “Gabriel has recited the Qur’an to me every year. This year he recited twice. He also told me that every succeeding prophet has lived half the age of his predecessor. He told me that the son of Mary lived 120 years. Therefore, I may live about 60 years.” According to the New Testament Jesus was about 32 when the event of the cross took place, when Jesus is said to have been ‘ascended’ to heaven. If Jesus did really ascend, his age at the time of the Holy Prophet would be about 600 not 120. The Holy Prophet should then have lived for about 300 years. But we know from history that he lived only 63 years. This important statement by the Holy Prophet proves that Jesus died a natural death in his own good time. To think otherwise is contrary to what the Holy Prophet thought about the matter. How can we be persuaded that Jesus is alive in heaven? How can we deny something which the Holy Prophet has stated so clearly? Extract from Invitation to Ahmadiyyat by Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad

Writings of the Promised Messiah а Today, God Almighty has again informed me of a severe earthquake which will be frightful and resemble the Judgment Day so I have been warned about it twice by the All-Knowing One. I consider that this terrible occurrence which will be a reminder of the Judgment Day is not very distant. God, the Majestic and Glorious, has also told me that both these earthquakes are signs in support of my truth like the signs which Moses demonstrated before Pharaoh and the sign which Noah showed to his people. Remember also that these signs are not all, but that many others will follow, one after the other till man takes note of them and inquires in surprise: What are we coming to? God says: I shall perform wonders and will not stop till the people have puriﬁed their hearts. As there was a tremendous famine in the time of Joseph, so much so that even the leaves of trees were not available for eating, in the same way people will be confronted with a great calamity. As Joseph helped save the people by storing up grain, in the same way, God has appointed me a messenger of spiritual sustenance. He who partakes sincerely of this food up to the required quantity will, I am sure, be dealt with mercifully. God has also informed me that the number of my followers will be augmented through the plague and the number of other Muslims will thereby be reduced. I tell you truly that the faith of him who accepts me after witnessing the sign prophesied here will not be worthy of great honour. Let him who has ears, hear. God Almighty says: “My wrath has been kindled upon the earth because the dwellers of the earth have turned away from Me”. Seeing that man’s government deals severely with disobedience, then you can imagine, how terrible God’s anger will be. Repent, therefore, for the days are near.

The Promised Messiah and Mahdi Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad а (1835–1908)

I set down now the revelation that I have received in this context: (Persian): Eat whatever I require thee to eat. (Arabic): You have a standing in heaven and also among those who are able to see. I shall descend upon the earth in thy support and shall show My signs and shall demolish that which they put up. Tell them: I shall hold back the enemy from Bani Israel. Pharaoh, and Haman, and their armies were wrongdoers. I shall come to thee suddenly with My hosts. God Almighty says that He will show these signs when most people will be occupied with laughter and mockery and will be entirely unaware of My purpose. I shall then demonstrate to them My sign in such manner that the earth will tremble thereat. That day will be a day of mourning for the world. Blessed are those who fear Him and would win His pleasure through repentance before the coming of the day of His wrath, for He is Forbearing and Benevolent and Forgiving and OftReturning with compassion as He is Severe in retribution. Announcement of April 21, 1905, Al-Hakam, Volume IX, Number 14, April 24, 1905, pages 5–6). Cited on page 306, Tadhkirah February 2009 | 5

2 Editorial Message from Sadr Majlis: Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Pledge My Dear Brothers Khuddam and Atfal.

May the Lord of mankind open unto you all the gates of His mercy and may He so ordain that you are always accompanied by the supplication of His angels. It gives me great pleasure to write this message in the first Tariq magazine of the new Khuddam administration. I know much effort has gone into preparing this publication and it has involved a commitment of considerable effort and time from each of the authors, typesetters, designers, proofreaders and editors. I am confident that, , under the editorship of Dr Aziz Hafiz Sahib this magazine will continue to act as a vessel by which our talented Khuddam and Atfal can showcase their literary skills and as a means by which the activities of the Majlis are disseminated. This magazine represents but one example of the commitment required of our Khuddam. At each of our events we are guided to repeat the Khuddam Pledge. It is a solemn oath taken by all and by which the members of the Majlis promise to sacrifice all, be it “life, wealth, time and honour” for the sake of one’s “faith, country and nation.” Tommy Kallon It goes on to seek a commitment from each of us to continually be ready to render Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK any sacrifice “for guarding the institution of Khilafat–e–Ahmadiyya.” This pledge was adopted by the Majlis in 1956 in its current form under the guidance of Hadhrat Musleh Maud . The revision from its previous format incorporated the concept of sacrifice of one’s time. The amendment is a telling one given the collective pressures on our time reinforcing the true import of the commitment required in service to the Jama’at. Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, in many ways, represents the engine room of the Jama’at; ever active and restless in pursuit of the cause of Ahmadiyyat. It is, undoubtedly, a Divinely inspired exhortation for us to repeat this pledge at the commencement of each of our activities serving as a reminder of the sacrifice and obedience required if we are to live up the noble ideals upon which our Majlis was established. We must be forever mindful of the sincerity with which our pledge is taken, never allowing ourselves the complacency to believe that we are completing a mere formality. Pledges have always been of central importance in the history of Islam; from one of the earliest pledges taken by the 12 people of Yathrib at the hands of the Holy Prophet at Aqaba to the pledge taken by tens of thousands of Ahmadis each year on entering into the fold of Ahmadiyyat. If we are to emulate, and indeed exceed, the sacrifices of those that have gone before us then we must reflect carefully and resolve firmly to ensure that the words of our pledge are being reflected in our actions. We must neither violate nor betray the pledge. May Allah enable all members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK to be the embodiment of the pledge which we all so frequently undertake and, through this, may He make us true guardians of the institution of Khilafat–e–Ahmadiyya. Wassalam, Tommy Kallon Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK 6 | Tariq Magazine

If we are to emulate, and indeed exceed, the sacrifices of those that have gone before us then we must reflect carefully and resolve firmly to ensure that the words of our pledge are being reflected in our actions.

Editorial 2008 has seen momentous change in which we have all witnessed the global economic slow down and the world financial system brought to its knees. Nobody could have ever envisaged we would find ourselves in this predicament – or could they? Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV warned the world many times over about the current financial system and how it would lead the world to destruction. How prophetic his words now seem. As many in our own nation here in the United Kingdom are facing the repercussions of this global slow down it has opened up the whole debate about the moral direction of our society. Has our greed and desire for more finally got the better of us? Although we have been fortunate in the Jama’at to have been blessed with guidance well in advance of world events hitting the headlines it is interesting to note that in Aziz Ahmad Hafiz the current climate many are speaking up or at least attempting to debate the per- Naib Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and Chief Editor spective on our society and our financial system. In a recent interview on the ‘Today’ programme on Radio 4 the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Rowan Williams expressed his concerns about the current financial system and how as a society we had lost the sense of accountability, and that the current difficulties were a “reality check” that would give us a new perspective on life. In describing the current financial system he referred to it as having a rationale of “accumulating wealth which has nothing much to do with producing anything.” It is pleasing to see a personage of such stature and authority giving much needed moral direction to the society. On hearing this interview it made me think how fortunate indeed we are to have been blessed with Khulafa over the years that have constantly through divine guidance guided us through the treacherous paths that lay ahead. Fortunate we are indeed but how many of us actually realise what treasures have been given to us? How many of us actually see how the spread of Islam Ahmadiyyat fits into the global scheme of things? How many of us actually understand the great wisdom in the guidance of Tehrik-e-Jadid given by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih II with regards to simple living that would so help many in today’s climate?

As many in our own nation here in the United Kingdom are facing the repercussions of this global slow down it has opened up the whole debate about the moral direction of our society.

If we heed the advice we have received then maybe we can save ourselves the pain and the anguish that is now aﬀecting more and more across the country. May Allah Almighty be our Guardian through these turbulent times and may we at all times turn to Him for guidance and assistance. Ameen. Aziz Ahmad Haﬁz Naib Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and Chief Editor, Tariq Magazine

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3 Islam The Holy Prophet’s Love of Allah By Tommy Kallon, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK The Holy Prophet of Islam was a man of love! He was a loving husband, a loving father and a loving companion. He loved humanity; he loved animals; He loved the poor, the oppressed, the marginalised and throughout his life, he strove to ameliorate their melancholic plight. But it is the love of Allah which dominated his heart. It is in his love of Allah Almighty that he excelled every other creature and creation of Allah. It is in his love of Allah that he remains a shining example for everyone else to emulate. This love found expression through his worship and his honour of Allah Almighty; this love found expression through his obedience, his faithfulness and through the discharge of his duty to Allah Almighty. Within the short time at my disposal this evening, I will endeavour to shed some light on these aspects to demonstrate the all–consuming love which the Holy Prophet had for his Lord. Even before he assumed the mantle of prophethood, it is patently obvious that the love of Allah and the love of His worship began to possess the Holy Prophet . This is evident from the fact that even though his childhood, boyhood and youth had been spent in the corrupt and debased society which Makkah was at the time, he never engaged in any of the evil practices or frivolous activities of his fellow citizens. He never paid homage to an idol nor did he partake of any food presented to an idol as offering. Revolting against the many vices of the people of Makkah, he would remove himself, with provisions, to the solitary confines of Cave Hira, two or three miles out of town. Here he would spend several days and nights at a time in the worship of Allah . It is indeed on one such occasion while in this very Cave Hira, that he received the Divine call inviting him to the ministry – an event which changed the course of history! That which inspired the Holy Prophet first and last was his duty to God. After receiving the call, he demonstrated his love of Allah through his devotion to duty in the face of persecution and privations that were bitter, cruel and sustained. Nothing and no one could affect his high resolve and no consideration could stand in the way of the performance of his duty. The people of Makkah sought to place all sorts of temptations in his way to persuade him to give up his opposition to idol–worship. When all this had failed, a delegation was sent to his uncle and guardian, Abu Talib , with the message that if he did not persuade his nephew to give up preaching the new doctrine, on the pain of being disowned, they would be 8 | Tariq Magazine

compelled to disown Abu Talib . Abu Talib spoke to his nephew, conveying to him what the delegation had said but the Holy Prophet replied ﬁrmly that while he lamented his uncle’s dilemma, he was under Divine instructions which he could not disobey. “Do not give up your people, uncle”, he said, “I do not ask you to stand by me. You may disown me as they have suggested. As for me, the One and Only God is my witness when I say that if they were to place the sun on my right hand and the moon on my left hand, I would not desist from preaching the truth that God commands.” Abu Talib was not ready to declare his faith in the Prophet’s message but was quite fond of him and must have felt a surge of pride at his ﬁrm and noble resolve that he was moved to say: “Go thy way; do thy duty as thou seest it; my people may disown me but I will stand by thee.” Every aspect of the Holy Prophet’s life was coloured by his love for, and devotion to God.

The Holy Prophet was most forgiving and forbearing in respect of personal wrongs or injuries against him. His judgements were always tempered with mercy. But when it came to the discharge of binding obligations and the demands of justice imposed upon him by his duty, his love for Allah would not allow him to fail to exercise sternness when the occasion required it of him. In spite of the very heavy responsibilities that had been laid upon his shoulders, the greater portion of his time during the day, as well as during the night, was spent in the worship and praise of Almighty Allah. He would leave bed at midnight and devote himself to the worship of God till it was time to go to the mosque for the morning prayers. He prayed till his prayer mat became wet with tears; he wept till his breast heaved like a boiling pot. He sometimes stood so long in prayer during the latter part of the night that his feet would get swollen, and those who saw him in that condition were always much aﬀected. When his Holy Consort, Hadhrat Aisha , was moved to venture a mild protest against such prolonged devotion, the Holy Prophet answered: “If Allah has, by His Grace and Mercy, conferred His love and nearness upon me, is it not my duty in return to be always rendering thanks to Him?” With a few honourable exceptions, through fourteen centuries Western critics have consistently ignored all that was patently good and beneﬁcent in the life of the Holy Prophet , and have been anxious to paint his portrait with bright colours of falsehood. But in truth. every action of the Holy Prophet was governed by his love of Allah. Everything he did was an act of worship. A book published by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community entitled “Invocations of the Holy Prophet ” illustrates the case in point. It catalogues hundreds of prayers which the Holy Prophet recited on all occasions, from the ceremonies of religion to the rituals of daily life. The Holy Prophet supplicated to Allah

when arising in the morning and when retiring to sleep at night; he supplicated when starting a meal and upon its completion; when leaving his home and when re–entering, when entering and when leaving the mosque; he supplicated when donning on his attire, when putting on new shoes, when mounting his ride; he supplicated upon the sighting of the moon, upon the falling of rain and upon an eclipse. He constantly supplicated for divine grace, mercy and communion for such was his desire for nearness to his beloved Lord. One of his oft–recited prayers which not only shows how much he loved Allah but also how much he longed for the love of Allah is: “O Allah, grant me Thy love and the love of those who love Thee and the love of those deeds which enable me to attain Thy love. O Allah, make Thy love dearer to me than my life, my family and [dearer to me than] cold refreshing water to a man dying of thirst.” As the Holy Prophet loved Allah , so did he love the Word of Allah. Whenever he heard the Holy Qur’an being recited, he was overcome by emotion and tears would well up in his eyes. And whenever he referred to or discoursed about God, it appeared to onlookers as if his whole being was in the grip of a passion of love for and devotion to God. So much was this so that even his enemies in Makkah would often remark, “Muhammad is intoxicated with the love of his Lord.” Such was the desire of the Holy Prophet to please his beloved Lord that he never entered upon any undertaking without divine command or permission. When persecution in Makkah became very severe and life became unbearable,

he gave permission to his Companions to migrate to Abyssinia and though some of them expressed their desire for him to join them, he declined on the grounds that he had yet not received divine permission to that eﬀect. Thus he chose to endure privations in the cause of Allah until such time as he was commanded to migrate to Medina. Where there is love, there is a jealous regard for the beloved. So it was with the Holy Prophet in his love of Allah. He had an extreme sense of jealousy for the honour of Allah Almighty. One incident which sums this up occurred after the cessation of hostilities in the Battle of Uhud. As the exhausted and badly wounded Muslim army gathered around the Holy Prophet , the Makkahns raised slogans, one after the other, to the eﬀect that they had, God forbid, killed the Holy Prophet , Hadhrat Abu Bakr and Hadhrat Umar . The Holy Prophet heard these boastful cries but, on each occasion, forbade the Muslims from answering lest the enemy should know the truth and attack again. Then the enemy raised a cry in praise of their national idol “Glory to Hubal! Glory to Hubal! For Hubal has put an end to Islam.” The Holy Prophet could not bear this boast against the One and Only God, Almighty Allah. Only remnants of his small force remained and the enemy forces were large and buoyant. But the jealousy of the Holy Prophet had been aroused by this insult to Almighty Allah. Even though his own safety and that of the small band of Muslims lay in keeping silent, he could no longer restrain himself. He looked angrily at the Muslims and said: “Why stand silent and make no reply to this insult to Allah, the Only God?” February 2009 | 9

Some of the wives he married after Hadhrat Khadija’s death, died during his lifetime and towards the close of his life, he had to bear the loss of his son Ibrahim. He bore all these losses and calamities cheerfully and accepted the Will of Allah on all occasions. Indeed, on the loss of his son Ibrahim, he uttered those heart–rending words of grief which have become a formula for the mourning of a departed soul: “The eyes shed tears and the heart grieves” he said, “yet we say not anything that would offend our Lord. Ibrahim, we grieve sorely thy parting. To Allah we belong and to Him shall we all return.” ABOVE A view of Cave Hira from above. Cave Hira is a small enclosure a few kilometers on the outskirts of Makkah. Such was the love of the Holy Prophet for Allah that he would often walk here in order to remember and worship Allah in seclusion. It was here that he received his ﬁrst revelation.

The Muslim’s asked: “What shall we say, O Prophet?” He replied, and the Muslims shouted accordingly, “Allah alone is Great and Mighty! He alone is High and Honoured!” This cry stupeﬁed the enemy for they realised that they had not succeeded in killing the Holy Prophet after all. But they dared not attack again. Another remarkable scene was witnessed when Makkah, without any bloodshed, was conquered by the Muslims and the Holy Prophet and his companions marched triumphantly into the city within eight years of their ﬂight therefrom. There are a thousand and one things the Holy Prophet could have done upon re–entering his home town after so long. He could have sought reunion with friends and family, he could have proceeded to the tombs of his beloved wife Hadhrat Khadija and uncle Abu Talib ; he could have called to account the Makkahn leaders who had left no stone unturned in their

persecution of the Muslims. But the ﬁrst thing the Holy Prophet did was to proceed to the Holy Ka’aba and having performed the circuit of it, he directed the demolition of all 360 idols that were installed inside and around the Holy Ka’aba. The Holy Prophet abhorred every action and practice which savoured of idolatry and it is patently obvious that the presence of idols in the House of Allah had been consuming his soul. His soul could now rest in peace in the realisation that the Holy Ka’aba had been restored to its original purpose—that of the worship of the One True God. The love which the Holy Prophet had for his Lord is also evident from the way he submitted to the Will of Allah in the face of extreme adversity. Throughout his life, he encountered a succession of bitter experiences. He was born an orphan, his mother died while he was still a small child and he lost his grandfather at the age of eight. After marriage he had to bear the loss of several children, one after the other, and then his beloved and devoted wife Hadhrat Khadija died. A month later he lost his uncle, Abu Talib .

Yet even as he grieved, he displayed a singular sense of honour for Allah, the Almighty. An eclipse of the sun occurred on the same day that his son Ibrahim died and some people spoke of it as a mark of divine condolence. The Holy Prophet’s love of Allah would not permit such a misguided notion to gain currency. He expressed great displeasure and severely condemned it explaining that heavenly bodies and their phenomena are governed by divine laws and had no relation to the life or death of any person. The Holy Prophet was most forgiving and forbearing in respect of personal wrongs or injuries against him. His judgements were always tempered with mercy. But when it came to the discharge of binding obligations and the demands of justice imposed upon him by his duty, his love for Allah would not allow him to fail to exercise sternness when the occasion required it of him. Once a daughter of a prominent Arab chieftain was caught stealing; her name was Fatimah, the same as that of the Holy Prophet’s daughter. Some people were asking for mercy as she was the daughter of a powerful chief. They prevailed upon Usamah bin Zaid whom the Holy Prophet loved dearly to intercede on her behalf. He proceeded to do so, but this annoyed the Holy Prophet so much that the

As the Holy Prophet loved Allah , so did he love the Word of Allah. Whenever he heard the Holy Qur’an being recited, he was overcome by emotion and tears would well up in his eyes. 10 | Tariq Magazine

vein on his forehead darkened. “What do you mean by this intercession?” he asked, “I would most certainly have done what Allah wants me to do even if my daughter Fatimah had committed this crime.” Such was the Holy Prophet of Islam ! Little wonder then that we ﬁnd his love for Allah reciprocated manifold times by Allah , his beloved. Little wonder that he is assured by the Holy Qur’an of blessings from Allah and His angels. Little wonder that the believers are commanded in the Holy Qur’an to invoke blessings upon him when it enjoins: “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.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 33, Verse 57 When the time of his departure from this life was near, he was given a choice by God either to return to Him or to spend some more years in this earthly existence. His response was: ‘To the companionship of my Exalted Lord. To the companionship of my Exalted Lord.’ These were the last words he uttered before passing unto life eternal. The Holy Prophet chose death so that he can live forever in the love of Allah .

“My Prayer and my sacriﬁce and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds. He has no partner. And so am I commanded, and I am the ﬁrst of those who submit.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 6, Verses 163–164

He indeed proved himself to be a loving, faithful, loyal, steadfast, humble, obedient servant of Allah . His every thought, every movement, every action, his very being was devoted to God in the effort to seek closer communion with Him. This is affirmed by divine testimony. He was directed by the Holy Qur’an to say: “My Prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds. He has no partner. And so am I commanded, and I am the first of those who submit.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 6, Verses 163– 164 One indisputable truth emerges from all this and that is whatever view might be taken of the Holy Prophet’s claim to prophethood, he certainly was no impostor. His devotion to, and his love of Allah affirm sincerity and truth. May light perpetually shine upon him!

“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.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 33, Verse 57 February 2009 | 11

Salat al–Jumu’ah — The Friday Prayer By Sirajul Haq Khan, Mohtamim Tabligh

O ye who believe! when the call is made for Prayer on Friday, hasten to the rememberance of Allah, and leave oﬀ all business. That is best for you, if you only knew. The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 62, Verse 10

It has been observed in certain places that some people are unaware of the correct manner of oﬀering the Salat al–Jumu’ah: the Friday prayer. It is hoped that this short article will serve as a timely reminder of the correct practice according to the Sunnah of our Noble Prophet .

The importance of Salat al–Jumu’ah is clearly stated in the Holy Qur’an as a time when the believers should leave all their worldly obligations and devote the time of the Friday prayer solely to Allah. Allah states: “O ye who believe! When the call is made for Prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off all business. That is better for you, if you only knew.” The Holy Qur’an, Sura Al–Jumu’ah, Chapter 62, Verse 10 According to some schools of Fiqah (Islamic Jurisprudence), Salat al–Jumu’ah is a fard (compulsory obligation), and indeed this is the case regarding our Jama’at, who largely subscribe to the school of jurisprudence of Imam Abu Hanifa, known as the Hanafi school of thought. Thus it should be clear to all reading this that it is unacceptable to miss the Salat al–Jumu’ah without any substantial reason. Indeed, our Noble Prophet is reported to have specifically travelled on a Thursday so that he would be able to attend the Salat al–Jumu’ah on Friday. Those who are in travel are specifically excused from performing the obligation of Salat al–Jumu’ah; and even then our Noble Prophet regarded this to be such an important obligation that he would try to ensure that he would make the Salat al–Jumu’ah, and that there would be no expiation or permission that would excuse him from performing this obligation. Another important point to note about 12 | Tariq Magazine

the Salat al–Jumu’ah is the manner of its performance. There are many issues that some people may not be aware of when performing the Salat al-Jumu’ah in specific circumstances. For example, how many raka’at (bowing) of the Sunnah prayers should one perform if the first khutbah (sermon) has started, or if, indeed, the fard prayer of Salat al-Jumu’ah has begun. These are all issues of Fiqah which have been pondered upon by the Fuqaha ( Jurists) of Islam and they have proffered their respective legal opinions according to their intense studies and examination of the Shari’ah and the reports contained in the Ahadith of the Noble Messenger and the practices they witnessed of the generations of the Sahabah (companions of the Holy Prophet ), the Tabi’in (generation following the Sahabah ), and the taba’a-tabi’in (the generation that succeeded those that succeeded the Sahabah ), with respect to these matters. In order to provide a succinct summary of the correct practices with respect to some of the issues which one may encounter whilst attending the Salat al-Jumu’ah, an excerpt from ‘Fiqah al-Ahmadiyya’ has been translated into English from the original Urdu and has been provided here for the benefit of readers instructing as to the basics of the correct manner in which to perform the Salat al-Jum’ah according to the Fiqah al-Hanafiyyah (Hanafi school of Jurisprudence). The first adhan should be called as the sun starts to decline [after midday just

prior to Zuhr time]. As the Imam arrives to give the khutbah the second adhan should be called. In the first khutbah, the Tashahhud [“Ashhadu an-la-ilaha illa-Allah…”] and the Surah al-Fatiha should be recited after which necessary reminders and advice should be given relevant to the occasion in a language which is understandable by the majority of the congregation. In this khutbah the congregation should be reminded of their essential religious obligations (fara-id). After this, the khatib [the person giving the khutbah] should stay quiet and sit for a few seconds. Then he should rise and recite the second specified khutbah, in Arabic. Both khutbat should be attentively listened to – it is impermissible to speak during either of them, however if it is necessary, then one may, using their hand or their fingers, indicate something to another person. If however, the Imam asks a person a question, then one should answer him. After the second khutbah, the Iqamah is called [calling to attention that the prayer is standing], and two (2) raka’at of prayer are offered in jama’ah [congregation]. During the salat, the recitation of the Qur’an should be relaxed in accordance with the rules of recitation. The person who has given the Khutbah should lead the Salat. However, in case of some extreme necessity, and the per-

Friday Prayers in the Hadith “… (He who) offers the Prayers and listens quitely when the Imam stands up for sermon, will have his sins forgiven between that Friday and the next” son who gave the Khutbah cannot lead the prayer, then according to the instructions of the Imam, another person can lead the Salat in his place. Four (4) raka’at Sunnah should be observed before the Salat al-Jumu’ah, and 4 raka’at Sunnah should be observed after the Jumu’ah Salat. However, two (2) raka’at Sunnah can also be observed after Salat al-Jumu’ah instead of the four (4) previously mentioned. Those who arrive whilst the khutbah is being delivered are advised that they should not attempt to jump over the shoulders of others in order to get close to the front. Rather, such a person should very quickly offer Two (2) raka’ah of Sunnah, immediately before the fard prayers start. If the Imam has begun leading the fard prayers, one should join the fard prayer and observe the two (2) raka’ah of sunnah which should have been observed before the fard prayer, after the Imam has concluded the prayer. If a person, for some reason, joins the prayer late, in the last qa’dah [the final sitting position in the Salat, after which the prayer finishes with the Imam’s saying ‘Assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatAllah’] then he should join the prayer at that moment and sit in that position and then complete Two (2) raka’at when the Imam finishes the prayer. This will, due to the intention of joining the Jumu’ah, maintain the number of raka’at equal to that which the Imam had led the congregation in. However, the reward will be somewhat less. There is no qada [replacement at any later time] for Salat al-Jumu’ah; if the Salat al-Jumu’ah is not observed within its timings, then the Zuhr Salat should be observed. Fiqah al-Ahmadiyya – Vol.1 – ‘Ibadat, pp.162-163, Published by Nazarat Nashrwa-Isha’at Qadian, 2004

Importance of Friday Prayers “O ye who believe! When the call is made for Prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off all business. That is best for you, if you only knew. And when the Prayers if finished, then disperse in the land and seek of Allah’s grace, and remember Allah much that you may prosper.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 62, Verses 10–11 The sheer importance of the Friday Prayers can be seen by its specific mention in the Holy Quran. Despite the repeated commandments made of offering Salat in congregation, Allah the Almighty, who holds the knowledge of the Seen and the Unseen, makes specific mention of this most blessed prayer. The Friday prayers encompass great spiritual training. We make the sacrifice of time, leaving our worldly affairs in the midst of the day, listening quietly and attentively to the advice and wisdom given in the Friday Sermon. Praying with full attention and trust in Allah, holding fast the belief that there is no place or matter more important at that point in time other than to be at the Friday prayers in full obedience to the command of Allah the Almighty and believing in the words of Allah. “And whoso obeys Allah and His Messenger, and fears Allah, and takes Him as a shield for protection, it is they who will be successful.” The Holy Qur’an, Chapter 24, Verse 53 The great emphasis in the attendance of Friday prayers was repeatedly further emphasized by the Holy Prophet . “The word witnesses refers to Friday. There is no day more virtuous than Friday. There is such an hour in this day that no Muslim will make dua in it except that his dua will be accepted. And he does not seek protection from anything except that Allah Most High will grant him protection.” Tirmidhi Thus the Companions of the Holy Prophet , obeying these commands made every effort to come early to the mosque for Friday prayers and thus as Ahmadis and claimants of being the followers of the Reformer of the Age, we too should be following the example of these blessed Companions so that we may be deserving of the ‘akhareen’ who are to join them. Thus as we strive to make the effort to attend the Friday prayers punctually and regularly. We must also be weary that once we disperse, we must continue in our remembrance of Allah, striving to be close to Him and heightening the standards of our worship. We must seek Allah’s help that we may become worthy servants of His bountiful blessings, that the reform we try to bring in ourselves continues and that we may never put anything before the Almighty. May Allah enable us all to follow the model of the Companions of the Holy Prophet who strove to never forget the remembrance of Allah and who made every effort in their power to earn Allah’s pleasure by following His commandments.

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4 Ahmadiyyat, the Renaissance of Islam Khilafat Centenary Musha’irah By Atta-Ul Naseer, Qaid Majlis Jamia

Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK hosted its second Musha’irah of the blessed Khilafat Centenary year on Saturday 4th October. This was also the second day of the 36th annual Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Ijtema which was held in Islamabad. Due to the historical Khilafat Centenary the theme of the Musha’irah was Khilafat. Nine poets participated in the event, including the Secretary Musha’irah. Of the nine poets, three delivered their poems in English, and the other six delivered their poems in Urdu. The proceedings of the Musha’irah began at 10:25 pm under the chairmanship of Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib, Imam Masjid Fazl London, with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Maulana Muniruddin Shams Sahib. Rana Mahmoodul Hasan Sahib presented a few couplets from a poem written by the Promised Messiah 14 | Tariq Magazine

а. After this, with the permission of the chairman the Secretary Musha’irah Mr. Farooq Mahmood Sahib presented his beautiful poem addressing the Lahori Ahmadis on their feelings of not having the blessed institution of Khilafat. He also presented a selection from Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s poem. The ﬁrst English poet to present his poetry was Mr. Sabahuddin from the Middlesex Region under the topic of “100 years and we’re still going”. He had been awarded the best under–18 poet by the Muslim Council of Britain. After his beautiful poetry, Usman Khan Sahib from Baitun Noor Region and Sardar Attaul Quddous Sahib from Jamia Ahmadiyya UK also presented their love for Khilafat in the form of beautifully chosen words. After the English poets, Maqsoodul

Haq Sahib presented his poem in Urdu. He was followed by Mubarak Siddiqui Sahib, who presented his poem in a form of a dialogue taking place in a court named as Farde Jurm. Mubarak Zafar Sahib, author of Sahifae Ishq was the next poet to present his poetry. Naseer Ahmad Shah Sahib, who is the Chairman of MTA, had especially come from Birmingham to participate in this historical Musha’irah. He presented his poem Ayyadahu biruhilqudus. Finally, the Chairman of this Musha’irah Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib presented his beautiful poem. The Musha’irah ended with the words of thanks by Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib. The attendees included Ansar, Khuddam and Atfal from all over the UK. The recording was done by MTA International.

Khilafat Centenary Tree Plantations 1. North East Region

Khuddam from Bradford Qiadat of the North East region, under the guidance and assistance of Qaid Sahib and Mahmood Syed Sahib (Regional Khidmat-eKhalq Secretary), identiﬁed a site with the local council forestary department to plant trees and ﬂowers. the Khuddam on two occasions participated to beautify an area and conserve it by carrying out this task of plantation. This was to mark the Khilafat Centenary. The area that the Khuddam worked on was going to be demolished and used for the construction of new homes. However, the general public petitioned against such a campaign and knowing that with the help of MKA the area would be

utilised for conservation and beautiﬁed with natural plants and trees, providing natural beauty back to the community. It was an enjoyable experience for the Khuddam, and the local authority were overwhelmed that Muslim youth were interested in such initiatives. This event gave good grounding and opportunities for the Khuddam to explain to the local authorities who they are and what the purposes of the Jamaat are. The neighbours around the vicinity of the area were happily engaged in friendly discussions with the Khuddam and were happy that the land was being used for such purposes.

The area that has been developed is not only important as it was going to be used as a building site for new homes, but it is also on a hill that looks out over Bradford City. With the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya’s assistance and help, the council and forestry department in particular, will maintain and look after the trees and plants. The forestry department wase also happy to allow a plaque to be placed in the area of development in honour of the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. This act outlines the purpose and the truth of the message “Love for All, Hatred for None”.

February 2009 | 15

2. Bestwood Country Park (by Midlands Region) By Atif Mehmood

on 13th April Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Nottingham planted 100 trees at Bestwood Country Park (part of The Famous Sherwood Forest) to mark the Khilafat Centenary. Members of Majlis Ansarullah were also invited to take part in this event. Fourteen Jamaat members took part in planting the trees, comprising of four Ansars, six Khuddam and four Atfal. The tree planting event started at 10am. There was a brief introduction from the Rangers at the Park about how to plant the trees properly who also answered any questions we had. We then split up into pairs and planted the trees randomly in the dedicated space, ensuring we followed the natural pattern of the existing forest. 100 small Oak trees (2ft long) were planted 16 | Tariq Magazine

by the Khuddam and Atfals. It was organised for the Ansars to plant the large oak tree (9ft long). Towards the end we presented the Rangers with a small gift as a gesture of good will. The event concluded with a silent prayer lead by President Sahib. The event lasted for two hours, after which refreshments were provided at the local community centre. The local press has already covered the story and a picture from the event was sent to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;picture storyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; section of the newspaper for further coverage.

Khilafat Centenary 100 Cyclists by Zafar Bhunnoo

On a day, where the forecast was “strong winds and torrential downpours”, Friday 3rd October proved the weatherman wrong again. Allah Almighty had truly listened to the prayers of everyone involved that day. Blue skies and a spot of sunshine made it a wonderfully fresh October day which was reason enough for anyone to get on their bike. the continuation of the celebration of Khilafat Centenary continued with an event for 100 cyclists to make the 33 mile journey from Baitul Futuh to Islamabad, for the start of the National Khuddam Ijtema 2008. With word of the event initially spread via the MKA email database, momentum soon picked up as the good old fashioned word of mouth method kicked in across the UK. Handy information packs detailing training, equipment, nutrition,

etiquette and much more were created and distributed to all those registering their interest in the auspicious event. The event was also made known and available to Ansar and Atfal. It was encouraging to have representation from all 3 age groups. Members from Jamaats as far as Manchester, Birmingham, Scunthorpe and parts of Wales took a hold of the opportunity to participate with an overall total of 94 cyclists and six support personnel, representing 13 diﬀerent UK regions. The event began at 7am on Friday, with the participants congregating at Baitul Futuh. Everyone was registered accordingly, payments for hired bikes were collected and name tags were distributed too. Once all bikes were issued and prepared for each rider, all the luggage was loaded onto the support truck region by region. It was at this very early stage that

the beauty of the Jamaat brotherhood and ethos began to shine through. The participants, mostly of whom did not know each other personally helped one another with their bike adjustments and pre-departure preparations. The event was structured to include the support from three vehicles. The ﬁrst support vehicle was always well ahead of the cyclists to set up the signposts, route markings and prepare all of the four refreshment points along the cycle route. The second support vehicle had the responsibility of clearing up the litter, packing up the refreshments and removing all the signposts. It also had suﬃcient space to carry any participants who may have been physically unable to complete the journey. The third and rearmost vehicle was a truck, which was in place to carry all the luggage, spare bikes and assist wherever possible. In addition, February 2009 | 17

there were six strong (very regular) cycle marshals to usher, guide and take care of the group along the route ensuring their safety and well being at all times. After invitation, the group was graced with the presence of Naib Amir UK, Nasir Chaudhry Sahib and Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fakhar Sahib to say a few words of encouragement and also to lead us in silent prayer before departure. With all the riders geared up and ready, the final safety briefing was delivered and the participants split into two groups. Just after 10am the 94 cyclists took to the A24 road to begin the 33 mile journey to Islamabad. As it was expected, as the ride progressed, there were some mechanical teething problems for few individuals. The two broken pedals and three punctures picked up were, , issues that were dealt with quickly and effectively due to the planned resources available. The aim of the event was always for 100 cyclists to start together and 100 cy18 | Tariq Magazine

clists to finish together, which essentially meant that the slowest rider dictated the pace. Therefore, it was essential for the tail end riders to be given the chance to catch up and remain a part of the whole group. So, to serve that purpose; four predetermined regroup and refresh points were, in turn, temporarily set up to give everyone an opportunity to refuel on peanuts, raisins, biscuits, oranges, bananas and water. About one mile from Islamabad, Tilford Green provided the venue for namaaz and the final stop. The congregation for Zohr and Asr namaaz was led by Ataul Quddous Ahmad of Jamia, before riders put on their commemorative t-shirts and got ready for the finish. Although a little later than originally planned, a complete group of cyclists proudly adorning their t-shirts and filled with a sense of accomplishment, left Tilford Green together to cycle the last mile to cross the finish line in Islamabad. A healthy group of highly respected Jamaat members, including Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, gathered around our beloved Huzur

to welcome the ﬁnishing elated cyclists. Overall, by the grace of Allah, the event was a huge success and was beautifully capped with the presence of our beloved Huzur and a Musafa with all participants. A new seed of challenge and motivation has been planted within the UK Jamaat and with the establishment of a ‘British Cycling’ aﬃliate cycle club, regular planned activities are due to begin shortly. The future is bright and healthy with two wheels subtly carrying the message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat up close, personal far and wide. There are more events just around the corner so no matter what your age, or your skill level might be, now is the time to get ready, get on your bike and start pedalling. For more information on the cycle club or general cycle related information, please do not hesitate to contact Zafar Bhunnoo at cycle@khuddam.org.uk.

Khilafat Centenary Football Tournament By Faraz Sethi , the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Khilafat Centenary National Football Tournament 2008 was successfully held on Saturday 14th June in Roehampton Vale. We were blessed with a tremendous venue, spectacular playing surfaces and blossoming weather all day. Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib joined us for the opening session where he conducted the oﬃcial draw and oﬀered words of wisdom to the attendees.

Group 1

PTS

Midlands

Muqami

East

South

Middlesex

Breakfast had been organised by Baitul Futuh region, consisting of cereals, biscuits and fruit. A First Aid point was made available on pitch side consisting of muscle rubs, various bandaging and essential medications and was manned by Dr. Hasham Ahmad throughout the day.

Group 2

PTS

Islamabad

Baitul Futuh

Baitun Noor

North West

Ansarullah

A total of 10 teams were entered in to the draw. Seeded teams included Islamabad, East, North West and Middlesex. Other teams included Baitul Futuh, Muqami, Baitun Noor, South and Midlands, not forgetting our respected Majlis Ansarullah who also entered a team. The tournament had an added edge to it this year as it was being used as a trial to select a squad of players for The Khilafat Jubilee Tournament in Germany and The International Ijtema in UK in which we hope to enter strong teams. Mohtamim Sehate-Jismani, Naseer Shams Sahib had established a committee of members to help with the identification of talent and this had been approved by Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. The tournament was well structured. There were two groups of five, meaning each team was guaranteed four games. The standard of football was excellent. Midlands and Muqami region both displayed good youngsters with pace, flare and finesse. Last years winners Islamabad looked strong. Baitul Futuh region had a new look side that seemed to be gelling together. Each match was officiated by professional external referees so there were no discrepancies in decisions and no serious foul play. The group games were all played before lunch. A rolling lunch was served at 2pm. Lunch consisted of sandwiches, chicken biryani and fruit. Bottled water and orange squash was available throughout the day. Zuhr and Asr prayers were offered in congregation and were lead by a student from Jamia. The group standings were as follows.

The tournament structure permitted the top four teams to go through to the quarter finals. Middlesex and Majlis Ansarullah competed for the Plate Competition. After being 3-0 in front, Middlesex battled back to 3-2, however fell just short of Majlis Ansarullah who registered their names on the 2008 Plate Competition trophy. The quarter finals were played simultaneously. The quarter finals were all very tightly contended with one goal in two games being enough for a place in the semi–finals and two games being settled with a penalty shoot out. The quarter finals produced a few shocks with East region, last years runners up being knocked out by Baitul Futuh region. South region won against Islamabad, who were last year’s National Football Tournament winners. The semi – final fixtures were Baitul Futuh vs. South and North West vs. Muqami. Baitun Noor region overcame South region comfortably with a good display from Raashid Khan and veteran Ahmer Ahmedi. The youngsters of Muqami had to settle for a penalty shoot out against North West who definitely fancied their chances having previously knocked out Midlands in the quarter finals on penalties also. And so it proved to be the case, North West conquered Muqami on penalties. Naib Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Fahim Anwar Sahib blessed us with his presence at the final and closing session. There were some excellent displays in both attack and defence from both teams in the final. The game was end to end with both keepers having to work hard to keep their teams in the hunt for a winners medal. Eventually, Baitul Futuh broke the deadlock with almost four minutes left of the game. North

February 2009 | 19

Westâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan of holding out for a third consecutive penalty competition had been shattered. With time of the essence, North West pushed for an equaliser and were punished on the counter attack and the game ended 2-0. Baitul Futuh had ďŹ nally won the trophy.

The Khilafat Centenary Ascent of Ben Nevis Syed Omar Shah

The ďŹ nal session was kept very short, as it had been along day for all participants involved. Naib Sadr, reiterated Sadr Sahib, Mirza Fakhar Ahmadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point in the morning session regarding keeping up the local and regional sporting activities to ensure we have the correct pedigree to take with us to Germany and other future events. Overall, the day planned out well. By the grace of Allah, the passing neighbours with their dogs, the groundsmen, and even the weather were all very kind to us.

To commemorate one hundred years of Khilafat, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK embarked on an epic journey to climb the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, which stands at 1,344 metres high (4,408 feet) and is the highest mountain in the British Isles. Ben Nevis, translated from Gaelic into English, means Mountain of Heaven. The Centenary of Khilafatâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;eâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Ahmadiyya testiďŹ es to the favours and blessings showered upon us from the Master of the Heavens and here we were ready to tackle this mountain. Today Ahmadis are able to continue upon the path laid by Allah, shown how to walk on by the Holy Prophet , rejuvenated by the Promised Messiah Đ° and we are continuously lead by the Khalifa of our time. The group consisted of 30 participants from 8 Regions namely Baitul Futuh, Baitul Noor, South, East, Middlesex, Hertfordshire, North East and Scotland led by Dr Aziz HaďŹ z, Naib Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. All the participants had to report to the Glencoe Bunk House on Saturday 23rd August. The bunkhouse was set against the back drop of the Scottish Highlands, a beautiful location. On entering the bunkhouse, you could feel the essence of the ascent of Ben Nevis. The bunkhouse had simple facilities and was perfect for the participants to get thier mind set for the task ahead. By 9.30pm all the participants had arrived and Maghrib and Isha salaat was oďŹ&#x20AC;ered. This was followed by a formal session which included:

Please remember Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya in your prayers, as well as Baitul Futuh region who hosted a fantastic tournament as well as my team who worked behind the scenes to allow â&#x20AC;˘ this tournament to happen.

Tilawat from Sura Alâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Nur

â&#x20AC;˘

The Khuddam pledge

â&#x20AC;˘

A message from Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib

Main Competition

â&#x20AC;˘

A brief introduction by Dr Aziz HaďŹ z Sahib, outlining the importance of maintaining discipline and good behaviour

Winners Baitul Futuh Region

â&#x20AC;˘

A detailed debrieďŹ ng by Tayyib Hayat who expounded the rules and etiquettes of mountaineering and hiking

RESULTS TABLE

Runners up North West Region Third Place Muqami Region

Plate Competition Winners Majlis Ansarullah

Golden Boot Ahmed Obeng Midlands Region

Player of the Tournament Amir Mahmood North West Region

This was a crucial message which was imperative to be delivered to all so they understood the rudiments of the expedition, what was expected from them the importance of discipline, obedience, team work, respect for peers and a positive spirit which covered the basic tenets of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. Looking back to this brieďŹ ng, I personally thought that the rules would be something that would be followed in spirit only, but from the moment the ascent started I quickly understood that we had to follow these instructions to the letter.

Sunday 24th August 2008 On the day of the ascent, our morning started at 3.30am with an initial wake up call. At 4.45am Fajr salaat was oďŹ&#x20AC;ered after which a Dars about Khilafatâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;eâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Ahmadiyya and the purpose of the trip was outlined. Breakfast was served at 5.30am, by now the Khuddam began to interact freely and got to know each other on a personal level. Then an individual kit inspection followed to ensure all participants had the relevant clothing to participate in the expedition. At 7.30am we received a telephone message of prayers and support from Sadr Majlis to all the team. After receiving this we departed for Ben Nevis and arrived at base at 8am. At the foot of Ben Nevis we were split into two teams by our team leaders Tayyib and Qasim Hayat and received a ďŹ nal brieďŹ ng and commenced the ascent of Ben Nevis

20 | Tariq Magazine

with silent prayer. At the start of the ascent Ben Nevis lets you know what you are in for from the beginning. Initially you begin to climb steep steps, though the path did eventually even out into a more moderate walk. As we proceeded, the path up the mountain began to wind up and this presented a variety of panoramic views, which were truly fascinating and beautiful. As there was varying experience of hiking amongst the team it meant that the pace was steady and we gradually climbed the mountain, slowly we began to rise above the hills opposite us. We took rest breaks as we made our way up the mountain. As we looked ahead we saw what was awaiting us was a zig zag path. Once we began our assault on the body of the mountain the conditions began to change and Ben Nevis stated its intentions. It was not going to make it easy for us and the gusts of wind now became constant, visibility became poor and it began to rain, however our resolve hardened, we were motivated by our leaders who also kept us grounded by the importance of conserving energy and how to do this. So the battle commenced against the mountain and the terrain changed from pleasant green to grey rocks also as we looked ahead.

So we began to tackle the zig zagging path. Whilst approaching the end of the switch backs you feel that you are nearly at the summit but Ben Nevis does not make it so easy. It seems as the mountain begins to play a game of deception, naturally your mind feels that you have almost reached the summit, you are feeling fatigued, your legs telling you that you can’t go any further, at this point as a novice walker I felt like crying and the weather was abysmal. My mind kept telling me I had reached the top of the mountain. But then you realize that you are surrounded by your brothers giving you encouragement and driving you forward. A rule amongst hikers is that if one falls then the whole team turns back. With this support and the magnitude of expedition and its importance, meant what my mind thought was irrelevant. The third and ﬁnal part of the journey commenced I would best describe this as encountering lunar landscape, visibility dropped to nothing, the fog engulfed us, the air turned very cold it felt like the temperature fell to below zero. This was the ﬁnal attempt of Ben Nevis to stop us in our tracks to prevent us from completing our mission. The conditions meant that injuries were coming thick and fast one of the team members had severe muscle contraction, however there were

doctors amongst the team that were able to assist him yet this muscle contractions made it very painful to walk, along with weather conditions purported that it would be very difficult to continue and it seemed we would have to turn back but Dr Aziz was an inspiration at this point as he pushed and motivated the member forward. It was a testament to him that he showed the steel and resolve of a true Ahmadi and marched on; albeit slowly. Also another member fell due to not being able to see clearly and dislocated his finger. We now knew that this was serious and those messages we received at the start we truly understood. The pace dropped considerably as did the temperature. At this point we had to slow down to wait for the other team once they arrived we continued to the summit. Once we reached the summit Ben Nevis was very flat and very big, it was not like a traditional mountain peak that one would imagine but our task was complete, we had reached the summit. A SMS was sent to Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya at 2.30pm it was an arduous journey and the actual highest point of the mountain is the cairn and most took turns to stand on this. At the summit the Liwae-e-Ahmadiyyat and the United Kingdom flag were February 2009 | 21

raised, the occasion was celebrated with “Nare-takbir” celebrating Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya and the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad а, along with slogans of “long live UK and Scotland”. This was done in the presence of other climbers and this was translated to them and they were very impressed to see Islam in a different light and were intrigued by us and further discussed our message. As a result some Khuddam handed the climbers cards stating the message “Love for All, Hatred for None”. Pictures were taken with the flags by the team. Finally the strong team of 30 offered Zuhr and Asr salaat on the summit and then the de22 | Tariq Magazine

scent began. The long time we spent on the summit had taken its toll as the cold began to set and there was risk of hyporthermia. One member suﬀered a knee problem on the way down, we reached the base at 8pm and returned to the bunkhouse. Upon return a team began to cook a barbeque whilst others rested and showered. After enjoying the barbeque Baitul Futuh, Baitul Noor, Scotland and South set oﬀ for home at midnight. On Monday 25th August the remaining Regions woke at 5.30am for Fajr salaat and then received a Dars on Khilafat, we

ate breakfast at 6.30am and then proceeded to clean up by 9am. North East, Middlesex and Herts set oﬀ for home by the early hours of Tuesday morning the last members of expedition arrived home safely. I felt privileged to be a participant in this exhibition, a very rigid system of obedience and discipline was instilled from the outset, this enabled the expedition to be a success. And all 8 Regions developed close friendships with each other. I shall treasure these memories.

5 National Khuddam Ijtema Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Ijtema 2008

Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad addressing Khuddam at the 2008 National Ijtema

Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya held its 36th annual gathering in the United Kingdom at Islamabad in Tilford, Surrey on 3rd, 4th and 5th October 2008. Khuddam came together from all over the UK to enjoy three days of sport and academic competitions and the now traditional barbeque as well as some exhibitions. As in previous years, the exhibitions included a talk by members of the British Army, the Army Assault course and the Ishat exhibition. This year the National Ijtema started the day after Eid celebrations following the month of Ramadhan, which gave the Ijtema its unique character in addition to being held in the year of the Ahmadiyya Khilafat Centenary.

to the main exhibition organised by the Ishat team, each region set up an exhibition; one for each of the Khulufa–e– Ahmadiyyat.

Friday The Ijtema began in the morning at 10am. 94 cyclists left Baitul Futuh Mosque for Islamabad following silent prayers lead by Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. Unfortunately, 6 cyclists were not able to join the convoy. The route was 33 miles and was completed in approximately 7 hours.

The intended plan was for the cyclists to stop for Jumma and an Imam had also been appointed for this purpose. HowTheme of Ijtema ever, due to logistical reasons and an oversight on the part of the administraThe theme for this year’s Ijtema was tion, we regret that we were not able to Khilafat, in the spirit of this year’s Ah- adhere to the plan. The cyclists did oﬀer madiyya Khilafat Centenary. In addition their prayers before entering Islamabad. February 2009 | 23

for all future events we will pay par- Masih I by Dr Abdul Sami Omar ticular attention to this shortcoming. Sahib, grandson of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih I . A presentation was also no major accident or injuries oc- delivered by Muhammad Hashim Syed curred during the journey and Huzur Sahib on the historical sites of Makkah Aqdas greeted the cyclists and Medina. These were followed by a once they arrived at Islamabad. In the Bait-Bazi competition. evening, Khuddam and Atfal then had the opportunity to oﬀer Salaat in con- In addition, the following speeches were gregation lead by Hadhrat Ameerul Mo- also delivered: mineen . After this, Huzur Aqdas most graciously dis- • Hadhrat Musleh Maood by tributed sweets to all Atfal present and Muhammad Ahmad Sahib individually greeted every Khaddim. • Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih III

With our souls uplifted through Huby Imam Ataul Mujeeb Rashid Sazur’s presence, we are most hib grateful to Hadhrat Ameerul Momineen for sharing this treas- • Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV

ured time with us from his demanding by Maulana Jahanghir Sahib schedule.

Saturday Ijtema Program The Ijtema programme began immediately after Jumma prayers with sport competitions. After Maghrib Salaat, a Taleem session took place which contained an address on Hadhrat Khalifatul 24 | Tariq Magazine

There was healthy participation in all competitions and feedback from the judges indicated the standard of the participants in the tilawat and nazm competitions had improved considerably from last year. The sports events also commenced at 9am and included competitions for football, volleyball, shot put, table tennis, long jump and a skills test. The first half of the sports competition concluded prior to the inauguration and flag hoisting ceremony. We are grateful to Amir Sahib UK for attending the inauguration and addressing us. Amir Sahib addressed the Majlis to inaugurate the Ijtema with a speech expressing a wish for Khuddam and Atfal to aspire to fulfil their potential and become successful professionals. Amir Sahib particularly highlighted the need for Ahmadis to be in the field of journalism.

The programme of Khuddam academic competitions started at 9am on Saturday and, in addition to the traditional tilawat, nazm and quiz competitions; included a Following this was an appetising lunch, written test on the book The Need for the Zuhr and Asr Salaat lead by Imam Ataul Mujeeb Rashib Sahib and a short Dars– Imam by the Promised Messiah а.

ul–Qur’an. Saturday’s afternoon session then began at 1:40pm and included an address by Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. Sadr Sahib reminded everyone to observe regular prayers in order to be fully faithful to Allah and the institution of Khilafat. The sports competitions then continued until the evening session, which commenced at 5.40pm and included a “Question and Answer” session held with a panel consisting of Imam Ataul Mujeeb Rashid Sahib, Laiq Ahmad Tahir Sahib and Mujeeb Sialkoti Sahib. Over 10 questions were asked on the life of Khulufa–e–Ahmadiyya where the panel shared their own personal memories. After Isha prayers a captivating sitting of Mushaira, which included some English poetry, was enjoyed by many in the Ijtema Gah. Arrangements for the much looked forward to barbeque began at 8pm at each of the Regional sites. Due to deteriorating weather conditions, the central barbeque was hosted in the Atfal Gah and was attended by Amir Sahib UK, the National Amila along with guests from members of Ansarullah and Lajna Imaillah. Although provisions were made for regions to also move into the main dinning area in the Atfal Gah due to the rain; they showed great brotherhood in persevering with their plans at their local sites under whatever shelter could be made available. It seemed the discipline developed over the month of Ramadhan, which ended with Eid just the day before Ijtema, had created an atmosphere of patient resolve and was an endearing site to see organised queues at each site despite the light shower. The day concluded with the Sultan–al– Qalam conference which began after 10pm and sought to enable open discussions on current aﬀairs and topical issues facing Islam today. Sultan Al–Qalam MKA UK is a group founded in response to the directives of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih V to form a body of Khuddam to respond to allegations against Islam and its noble Prophet . This group functions under the guidance and supervision of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. Sultan Al–Qalam was a title given by Allah to

February 2009 | 25

the Promised Messiah а and means “King of the Pen”.

Sunday Khuddam were treated to a wonderful falconry exhibition on Sunday morning. The highlight of the day came in the afternoon when our hearts rejoiced at the arrival of Huzur at our Ijtema. Prior to Hadhrat Sahib’s concluding address, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, delivered the Ijtema report which related a total of 2,910 attending members in this year’s event which was a significant increase on last year’s total. Including all guests the number of participants this year was over 3,200. Sadr Sahib went on to say that this year’s event held even greater significance as it coincided with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at’s Khilafat Centenary celebrations. After Sadr Sahib’s report, Huzur Aqdas addressed us for approximately 45 minutes about a number of topical issues concerning Khuddam. He said that recently there had been a spate of knife attacks by the youth in the UK which had been widely reported in the press. Such acts of violence could never be justified nor could taking the law into one’s own hands. Revenge was not something that Islam permitted no matter how heinous the crime. Khuddam ought to be shining examples. In this respect, Huzur stated: “Every person should be able to distinguish Ahmadis from other people. When people see an Ahmadi they should know that what this person preaches he most certainly practices.” Huzur went on to condemn all forms of religious extremism and said that the purpose of Islam was to reform society for the better. Thus where a person had committed a crime, he ought to be punished only where that punishment would lead to his long term improvement. Where forgiveness was a more suitable tool it ought to be employed. The law of a country was always to be respected: “Never take the law into your own hands.

26 | Tariq Magazine

That is not permissible in Islam because where a person takes the law into his own hands it can only lead to strife within the society which he inhabits.” There are many qualities that Khuddam ought to continually endeavour to develop. They must always exercise honesty in all aspects of their lives, they ought always to act justly and with humility. Furthermore all Ahmadis ought to respect any trust placed with them, be such trusts ﬁnancial, societal or religious. Huzur concluded the event by praying that all Khuddam become examples for all of mankind to follow and that they remained ever loyal and dedicated to Khilafat–e–Ahmadiyya.

Weather conditions Weather conditions deteriorated after 1pm on Saturday afternoon which affected some of the programmes. Provisions were made and the programme was altered due to the heavy down pour. Sports competitions were postponed in the afternoon and Taleem events took place in the Ijtema Gah. The rain also aﬀected the evening barbeque and the central barbeque was moved indoors to the Atfal Gah.

Exhibitions Amir Sahib kindly judged the Regional Exhibitions, which were based on the theme of Khilafat

Ziafat and roti plant Behind the scenes of any successful Ijtema, there is of course a hard working Ziafat team. Starting with 6:30am breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday, they served Chana ghosht and tea for the morning meal on Saturday with Pai Gosht and tea served on Sunday. Naturally, a Continental breakfast was also oﬀered on both days. Lunch consisted of Kima Alu on Friday and Daal Ghost on Saturday. Saturday evening’s dinner consisted of the main barbeque, biryani and korma. By the Grace of Allah a team of 20 Khuddam from East region where allocated the task of running the roti plant, which produced an impressive 20,000 naan during the Ijtema.

February 2009 | 27

6 Regional Khuddam Ijtemas Baitul Futuh Regional Ijtema April 5th - April 6th 2008

Preparation Preparation for this annual event started months in advance. The ﬁrst step was to form an Ijtema committee, this was formed in January. Through the sheer Grace of Allah and months of hard work and planning from the Ijtema committee, Baitul Futuh Region was able to hold this year’s annual Ijtema. This year’s Ijtema also marked the 10 year anniversary of the Baitul Futuh Region and of course the Khilafat Centenary year, therefore the committee aimed to create a memorable event in every way. This year, the committee included many members who were in new positions including Raashid Khan Sahib (Nazim e Ala), Khalid Mahmood Sahib (Naib Nazim Ala) and Sheikh Naeem Ahmad Sahib (Naib Nazim Ala); as well as the new Qaideen Musawir Idrees Sahib (Worcester Park Qiadat) and Adnan Wadood Sahib (Sutton Qiadat)

Breakfast / Opening session 28 | Tariq Magazine

The day started at 8am with a unique breakfast menu of freshly prepared ‘Halwa and chana with poori’, along with a continental breakfast consisting of croissants and fresh fruit with tea, coffee and orange juice to help shrug off the morning’s snow. This seemed to help Khuddam to brave the weather and consequently achieve a record attendance for an opening session. The opening session started at 10 o’clock. Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib addressed the Khuddam and reminded them of the need for financial sacrifice for causes such as the Al-Mahdi Mosque appeal. Particular emphasis was laid on the institution of Wassiyat, and its direct link to Khilafat, thus emphasising of this year’s centenary. Following a rundown of the programme, the opening session was concluded by silent prayer.

Academics / Salaat and Lunch The Academic competitions followed and included Tilawat, Nazm and Speech

Competitions. The standard and participation of these events was extremely high, so much so that even our judges were impressed to the extent that one commented that the standards were higher than at some Ansar Ijtemas. The competition was completed before Zuhr Namaaz which was oﬀered at 2pm and then followed by a delicious lunch consisting of “Chana Pilau and Chicken Salan”.

Sports Competitions / Talqeene-Aml Due to the heavy snow, the grass pitches across the road where football and cricket were scheduled had become unusable so a contingency plan of indoor sports was deployed. A penalty shoot-out competition, tug of war and handkerchief picking competition entertained participants and spectators alike. the competitions were completed prior to Asr Namaaz which was then followed by Talqeen-e-Aml session led by Khawaja Shareef Sahib.

Final Session

year’s Ijtema with silent prayer.

The ﬁnal session was chaired by Amir Sahib UK and commenced with an enjoyable reminder of the roots of our region, thanks to a presentation on the Regional Qaideen of the last 10 years of Baitul Futuh conducted by Arif Khan Sahib. This included an emotional speech by ex Regional Qaid, Tommy Kallon Sahib in which he described his fond memories of his time in oﬃce.

Attendance

The closing session commenced on schedule with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an followed by Pledge and Nazm. Then Regional Qaid Sahib delivered the Ijtema report in which he explained the event and thanked all the committee members for organising this event. This was followed by the prize distribution session; at the end there was a special prize for the previous Regional Qaids that were present as a token of thanks for their past services to the Region. This was then followed by special prizes for Qiadats. Amir Sahib then gave his concluding address and particularly urged Khuddam to focus on education and reap the benefits of the education system on offer. Amir Sahib finally closed this

The Ijtema this year will be remembered for a beautiful Khilafat exhibition to commemorate the Khilafat Centenary which was created by Okasha Ahmad Sahib. This was enjoyed by all and added a signiﬁcant presence to the Ijtema Site. It included brief descriptions of each of the Khulfa-e-Ahmadiyya and the Promised Messiah а.

Despite the adverse weather conditions on the day of the Ijtema, the total registered attendance by the Grace of Allah was 302 out of a total tajneed of 539 which equated to a 56% attendance.

Khilafat Exhibition and other Highlights of the Ijtema

As is customary in Baitul Futuh Ijtemas, there were also plenty of photos on display of the events that Baitul-Futuh had been involved in over the year. It also had photo albums of previous years of the Baitul-Futuh Regional Ijtemas, and proﬁles of all the previous Regional Qaideen.

Following on from last year’s successes we also had a finance desk to collect chanda and for Khuddam to complete standing order forms. the finance desk was a great success and is something we will be looking to build upon and add into next year’s Atfal as well as Khuddam Ijtemas. As part of the registration process we tried to capture as much information as possible so as to benefit the centre and for the Qaideen to update their records. The information that was captured from each Khadim included: tajneed check to update records, email addresses, AlMahdi donation amount promised and amount paid, Tehrik-e-Jadeed promised and paid, Waqf-e-Jadeed promised and paid, whether the Khadim: a) Is a Moosi; b) Has read Al-Wassiyat; c) Has applied for Wassiyat or; d) Is considering doing Wassiyat. All of this information has now been captured and will be made available to the Qaideen for them to update their records. Moreover, the registration process was fully computerised using a wireless network which proved successful and will be employed in subsequent years.

February 2009 | 29

Middlesex Regional Ijtema March 30th 2008

Introduction

Special features

the Middlesex Regional Ijtema 2008 took place on Sunday 30th March 2008 at Lampton School, in Hounslow. The school provided us with the required space and facilities that we now need thanks to a growing tajneed, and an increase in attendance over the past few years. The main hall itself provides excellent audience facilities including ample space, lighting and audio video setup for PA and laptop presentations. Sports competitions are also well catered for with a large grass playing ﬁeld and concrete enclosed cricket pitches. It also has plenty of extra space for events as well as dining.

Immediately after the opening session all Khuddam and Atfal were given a PowerPoint presentation on the subject of Tarbiyyat, on a large overhead projector by Dr. Shirjeel Tahir Sahib. Dr. Sahib talked about a number of current issues concerning Khuddam raised in this country. A Boxing Exhibition was also organised by a professional boxing club. They had organised a full sized boxing ring in the main hall and had three members of their gym present to demonstrate. Some Khuddam and Atfal also got involved in the demonstation.

We had access to the building at 8:30am when a team of Khuddam prepared the main hall, setup chairs and large Jama’at banners around the main hall. The programme began at around 10am, with Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK giving a talk at the opening session. This year some of our regular judges noticed a couple of changes in the academic competitions. They observed that the level of participation was higher than in previous years and the quality of the actual participation was also better than in previous years.

30 | Tariq Magazine

Attendance Campaign There was one major change this year with regards to the attendance campaign. Previously a team of around 3-5 Khuddam would regularly meet in the evenings in order to make phone calls to the entire Khuddam tajneed. This would typically take place about three weeks prior to the Ijtema itself and would take around two weeks to complete. This year we opted for a diﬀerent approach. Phone calls prior to the Ijtema were carried out by the Qiadats themselves. The regional Attendance team would only kick into action on the morning of the Ijtema itself, around three hours before the opening session. The purpose of the phone call campaign being carried out early in

the morning of the actual Ijtema was, to wake the Khuddam up and give them an absolute final reminder on the day itself. This was aimed at the ones that would initially say “Yes”, but then would not wake up and make the effort to attend. We also found that this approach was only effective with Khuddam, as Atfal tend to be more reliable with regards to their attendance status, if they say they are coming then there is a 95% chance they will be there.

Attendance Figures Tajneed

Attendance

Percentage

Khuddam

339

143

42%

Atfal

55%

Total attendance (Khuddam +Atfal) 198 Regional Qaid: Imran Mirza Ijtema Chairman (Khuddam): Muddassar Ahmed Ijtema Chairman (Atfal): Hammad Ur Rehman

North West Regional Ijtema

By the Grace and Mercy of Allah, we held our Ijtema on Sunday 6th April 2008 at Dar–ul–Aman Mission House, Manchester. The Regional Qaid of the North West region, Muzaffar Hasni Sahib, began Ijtema preparations with the appointment of Shiraz Sethi Sahib as Nazim–e–Ala for the Ijtema. After the appointment a letter was immediately sent to Huzur requesting prayers for the success of the Ijtema. Preparations got under way thereafter, with Shiraz Sethi Sahib choosing his Ijtema committee. Firstly, letters were sent to all Khuddam of the region 6 weeks prior to the Ijtema with a copy of the full programme and the rules and regulations. In addition, various flyers were distributed at Jumma and regular announcements and reminders were made. In addition, posters were also displayed on the Jama’at notice board. Meetings between the Nazim–e–Ala and his secretaries were held on a weekly basis to discuss the progress of work and to assign duties to the committee members. Around this time, letters were sent to guests and academic judges. It was also decided that the committee would undertake three telephone campaigns at regular intervals prior to the Ijtema to ensure maximum attendance. A full committee meeting was held one week prior to the Ijtema in which various matters were discussed and arranged. The Ijtema this year was somewhat different from those of previous years because

in order to encapsulate a larger audience, pre–Ijtema sporting events, consisting of a badminton and cricket tournament, were held. These events were attended by a large number of Khuddam and enjoyed by all participants. Arrangements commenced on Saturday afternoon, at which juncture the stage was set up with a large balloon arrangement provided by Mahmood Anwar Sahib and a banner designed by Irfan Ali Sahib. Sunday’s proceedings commenced with Tahajjud prayer followed by Fajr prayer. The Ijtema programme commenced at 8:30am with ‘halwa puri’ for breakfast and registration. Registration was undertaken electronically using laptops, this allowed the regional tajneed to be updated simultaneously. The opening session commenced thereafter at approximately 10am, which was chaired by respected Murabi Sahib and an opening address was delivered by Regional Qaid Sahib.

vegetarian pasta on the menu! Thiswas swiftly followed by a gruelling arm wrestling competition. The academic competitions commenced at 3pm which included a bait-bazi competition, quiz and paigham–e–rasani along with the tilawat, nazm and speech competitions. Soon after the ﬁnal session commenced with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and was chaired by Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. Khuddam enjoyed Sadr Sahib’s faith inspiring speech which was then followed by dinner and group photographs were taken to capture the occasion. The total attendance for this year’s Ijtema was 83. A red book meeting was held over a dinner for the whole committee in which various discussions ensued about possible improvements for subsequent Ijtemas.

After the opening session, all Khuddam proceeded to the sports hall located at a ﬁve minutes drive from the Mission House. Firstly a volleyball competition took place for an hour and was followed by the football tournament, which took place for two hours. A 100m sprint was also very strongly contested. Bananas and drinks were provided as refreshments during the sports competitions. Upon return to the mosque, preparation were made for Zuhr and Asr prayers, which was followed by a Talqeen–e– Aml. Lunch was then served; with February 2009 | 31

East Regional Ijtema April 6th 2008 Early Sunday morning in London and the outskirts started with heavy snow covering most of the area. For this to happen in the month of April was rarely seen before, but this did not discourage the early starters to arrive and prepare for the days event.

was the key for the future of our young Khuddam.

Forest Gate School was hired for our venue once again as the Atfal were also holding their event the same day. The venue provided suﬃcient space for both Khuddam and Atfal to hold there respective programme independently.

At 10:30am the academic events (Tilawat, Nazm, and Prepared Speech) began with Khuddam utilising the main hall and Atfal using the smaller hall adjacent to the main hall. Five senior members of Majlis Ansarullah kindly judged all the competitions between them. The prepared speech competition had good individual participants. Good topics were chosen by the speakers and a very high number of individuals participated in the Tilawat and Nazm competitions.

A hot breakfast was served to all guests upon arrival and registration. A refreshments stall was held by Newham Qiadat. The opening session began at 10am presided by Regional Ameer Sahib. Tilawat, Pledge and Nazm were recited followed by Regional Ameer Sahib’s address. He stressed the importance of regular events for all of the Khuddam and Atfal, but more importantly stressed the importance of family and parents actively participating in their children’s future. Promoting brotherhood and gaining valuable education within the Jama’at

32 | Tariq Magazine

This was followed by silent prayer and announcements. At the start of the ﬁrst session a total of 55 Khuddam and 31 Atfal had registered.

Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib graced us with his presence at 1pm and delivered a short speech. This was immediately followed by lunch and Zuhr and Asr prayers led by Sadr Sahib. Talqeen – e - Amal was delivered by Dr. Salim Shahid Sahib. The sports competition began at 2.00pm and had to be rearranged due to the ad-

verse weather conditions and therefore the outdoor football pitches could not be utilised. We were fortunate to have three indoor halls available which allowed us to have a Badminton and Table Tennis competitions for Khuddam and indoor football for the Atfal. A number of Khuddam also participated in the extempore speech competition which took place in a separate hall. As always, the sports events provided good entertainment and the highlight being the Ansarullah beating the Khuddam in a challenge match in table tennis. By 2:45pm the attendance had increased to 124 Khuddam and 41 Atfal. Throughout the day our Ziafat team provided fruits and drinks to all the participants. The ﬁnal session began at 4:30pm chaired by Waheed Akhtar sahib, Regional Qaid East who presented prizes to all the winners and runner ups and delivered the concluding address. The ﬁnal attendance was 120 Khuddam, 45 Atfal and 20 guests. Silent prayers concluded the proceeding at 5.00 pm.

Midlands Regional Ijtema by Maqbool Bhatti

Committee

• Hospitality: Tarik Malik

After discussions with Regional Qaid Sahib and his appointment of Naib Regional Qaid, Maqbool Bhatti, as Nazim-e-Ala, the ﬁrst task was to form a committee. Approved by Regional Qaid Sahib, these were:

• Exhibition: Asif Abdul

• Secretary Ijtema: Syed Junaid Anwar • Registration: Syed Junaid Anwar and Mirza Irfan Akram • Attendance: Syed Juanid Anwar • Sports: Zia Noor • Academics: Imran Masood • Prizes: Haroon Khan • Site Arrangements: Nadeem Ahmad Asst: Birmingham Central, West and East • Audio Visual: Nadeem Ahmad • Ziafat: Imran Amir • Guests: Waqar Ahmedi

• Book Stall: Faizur Rehman

Secretarial and Registration A number of pre-Ijtema committee meetings took place ensuring each department had a clear understanding and the project remained under budget. Attendance campaigns began in earnest by Junaid Anwar Sahib. Registration was covered through the use of an electronic system produced by Mirza Irfan Akram Sahib. On the day, football took place at Star City, with Zia Noor Sahib organising the booking and the sub event. He was assisted by Nadeem Ahmed Sahib and Haroon Khan Sahib as referees. Simultaneously there were badminton and pool competitions at Darul Barakaat. By lunchtime, everyone had completed sports and were all at Darul Barakaat. Registration was moved into the main hall. After lunch and Zohr and Asr prayers Jameel Mwanje Sahib, Qaid of Birmingham Central, gave a moving speech on Khilafat.

The opening session began in the main hall chaired by Regional Amir Dr. Syed Farooque Ahmad Sahib, before the Academic session, chaired by Imran Masood Sahib began. Sadr Sahib arrived for the ﬁnal session. After Tilawat and Nazm, a profound speech on Wassiyat was delivered by Zafar Bhatti Sahib, Qaid of Leamington Spa. Then followed a prize distribution and the Ijtema report. There were three special prizes this year - Syed Raheel Zakria Sahib, Mansoor Malik Sahib and Sayyed Irfan Salim Sahib received honoury awards for their services to Majlis Khuddamul Ahmaddiyya as they join Majlis Ansarullah. There was also a change in the winners of the Qiadat prizes this year: • Best Attendance: Leicester • Most Improved Qiadat: Birmingham West • Best Qiadat: Walsall Mash’Allah, the Ijtema was attended by 118 Khuddam.

February 2009 | 33

7 News and Events Majlis–e–Shura

The 20th Majlis-e-Shura was held on Saturday 25th October 2008 in Baitul Futuh. Majlis-e-Shura registration began at 9am with the opening session starting at 10am.

year and the work done by the various Mohtamimeen, Regions and Qiadats were mentioned along with a vote of thanks to all oﬃce bearers and Khuddam.

prayer at 6,30pm. Following dinner at 9pm the delegates re–assembled in the Tahir Hall for the plenary session.

All this year’s proposals were accepted by Majlis-e-Shura with recommendaAfter Tilawat and the Khuddam pledge Then the sub committees were formed tions for presentation to Huzur Aqdas the implementation reports from last and the committee meetings began until . The delegates of Majlis-eyear’s approved proposals were presented lunch followed by Zuhr and Asr prayer at Shura were then rejoined by Maulana by Mohtamim Ishat, Mohtamim Tabligh, 1pm. At 3pm the delegates then assem- Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib who anMohtamim Talim and Mohtamim Tar- bled in the Tahir Hall for the election of nounced that Huzur had biyyat. The proposals for discussion this Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. graciously approved Bockarie Tommy year were then presented to the Majlis by The session was presided by Maulana Kallon Sahib as Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Motamid, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadi- Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Missionary In- Ahmadiyya UK. yya UK. charge UK. The Majlis-e-Shura ﬁnished at approxiThe Annual Report was presented by The sub committees then reconvened un- mately 12.15am. Sadr Majlis, where the key events of the til Isha prayer with a break for Maghrib 34 | Tariq Magazine

Mulaqat with Huzur

After the election of Sadr Majlis, Tommy Kallon Sahib, at Majlis–e–Shura held on Saturday 25th October 2008 the newly appointed Majlis–e–Amila were granted the honour of a Mulaqat with Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih Al Khamis at Masjid Fazl on 16th November 2008. The Mulaqat was attended by Sadr Sahib, Naib Sadraan, Muavin Sadraan, Mohtamimeen and Regional Qaideen. Huzur Aqdas made enquiries of each oﬃce bearer regarding their role and imparted pertinent advice, guidance and direction on a number of administrative, ﬁnancial and policy matters. After this members of Majlis-e-Amila had the honour of taking a group photogragh with Huzur Adqas and also had the blessing of performing musafa. The Mulaqat concluded shortly before Maghrib prayers.

February 2009 | 35

Inauguration of Masjid Al–Mahdi, Bradford Adapted from a report by Shakeel Amini

After years of hard work and financial sacrifice from all, the Al-Mahdi Mosque in Bradford was opened by Hadhrat Ameerul Momineen, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad on Friday 7th November 2008. This was the first purpose built mosque for the Bradford Jama’at and its inauguration by Huzur was a moment of great pride and joy for everyone.

The architect of the mosque designed a magnificent building, which would be visible from almost all over the city. Once the designs were finalised by the Jama’at and planning permission was sought and approved in May 2001 preparations were finally underway.

began straight away to raise funds from Khuddam and Atfal across the country. Many dug deep and contributed generously towards the mosque.

This was truly a unique moment as it was the ﬁrst time that Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK had been given such an Our beloved Huzur origi- honour to contribute in this way towards nally visited the site and laid the founda- a mosque. Earlier, Majlis Ansarullah UK tion stone on 2nd October 2004. With had also contributed graciously towards The site of the mosque was originally pur- an initial budget of £1.25 million, Hu- the building of the Nasir Mosque in chased by the Bradford Jama’at on 17th zur instructed Bradford to Hartlepool. May 1999, following a global request raise maximum funds for the construcmade by Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad tion. In his Friday Sermon, on 15th Oc- As of November 2008 Khuddam from

to build more mosques within tober 2004, Huzur gave the across the UK have contributed over the Jama’at. The land area measured 0.6 Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and £500,000 towards the mosque. Howacres and cost £30,000. It was situated Lajna Imaillah UK the responsibility to ever, there is still a long way to go bejust outside the city centre and offered contribute towards the building of the fore we fulfil our promise. There are still unparalleled views across the whole of mosque. outstanding promises of over £200,000 Bradford. This was one of the major facthat remain unpaid and Sadr Majlis tors in the purchasing of the site. Under the direction of Sadr Majlis a Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK has writsenior team was appointed and efforts ten to and urged every Khadim in the 36 | Tariq Magazine

country to respond to the call of Hadhrat Ameerul Momineen and fulfil their promises. The local Khuddam held daily Waqar-e-Amal sessions in order to clear the site so that the heavy machinery could have easy access and as the land purchased was on a slope it meant that months of painstaking levelling had to be done in order to prepare the ground for construction, which began on 27th November 2006. By the grace of Allah, the project progressed rapidly, and the structure developed with its beautiful cream coloured dome and minarets visible to the whole of Bradford city. The main building work was completed on 8th July 2008, when the Jama’at’s construction team took over to finish the interior work and some small building work that remained externally. The mosque had reached its final stages, with its rooms, halls and staircases in place, but there was still plenty of work to be done just days before the inauguration. The Khuddam, Ansar, Lajna and even the Atfal dedicated their time, day and night, to get the mosque ready for the opening. At one stage, it seemed as if we would not be able to get it ready in time, but , with prayers and plenty of hard work, it all came together in the end. On the day of the opening local, regional and national Jama’at members had gathered outside the mosque prior to the arrival of Hadhrat Ameerul Momineen . He greeted everyone with a wave and was immediately struck by the extraordinary views of Bradford from the mosque. As the local press interviewed members of the community and children sang poems to express their joy, the presence of Huzur created an atmosphere of sheer excitement that filled the air throughout the day. After he had viewed the exterior and unveiled the plaque of the mosque, Huzur proceeded indoors in order to prepare for the Friday Sermon. Members then filled the mosque and eagerly awaited Huzur’s sermon. Although the men’s hall is able to hold 600 worshippers, on this day it was full and a marquee was used for the overflow.

Bradford, an MEP, high-ranking police oﬃcers and various inter-faith group members who addressed the audience. In his speech, Huzur mentioned that the doors of AlMahdi Mosque were open for all and that the Jama’at was a peaceful community. After a very appetising meal, the guests met with Huzur and some also presented him with gifts to express their appreciation at having him visit their city.

It is now even more incumbent on those of us with outsanding promises to immediately work to fulﬁlling them.

The next day Huzur visited the mosque again and planted a tree in the grounds of the mosque. Afterwards, Huzur met with all the male members of the community and had group photographs taken with them. He then proceeded to the ladies and held a very relaxed and informal meeting with Lajna members whilst listening to the poems by the Nasirat. He generously distributed chocolates to children and spoke with all the members individually. After the meeting, Huzur lead a silent prayer and departed for Sheﬃeld in order to continue his blessed journey to inaugurate other mosques.

After the Jumma prayers, Huzur retired to his quarters. As guests departed, they were given a lunch bag containing fruits, yogurt, biriyani, kheer & water bottles (which local members had been busy packing the previous night). Sweets were also distributed in custom made boxes with a picture of the Al-Mahdi mosque printed on them.

We should pray that this mosque will be utilised to its maximum capacity and that coming to the mosque regularly will instil the members with a sense of brotherhood not found in any other community. We also pray that the building itself will be seen as a focal point of peace and harmony for the whole city and can attract people to the true Islam.

In his Friday Sermons Huzur mentioned that in the report that he has received there is some complaint about whether Khuddamul Ahmadiyya has fulﬁlled its promises. He stated that if this is the case Khuddamul Ahmadiyya should work to address this concern.

In the evening, a special inauguration dinner had been or- In conclusion let us once again remember to respond to the ganised by the Bradford Jama’at which was attended by local letter that Sadr Majlis has written to each of us to dig deep for dignitaries and VIPs. Guests included the Deputy Mayor of this beautiful House of Allah.

February 2009 | 37

National Qaideen Forum

This year’s Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK National Qaideen Forum took place on Saturday the 29th November 2008. Registration commenced at 9am where Qaideen were also given the updated MKA resource CD and a folder including printed copies of the material from the CD. The opening session began at 10:00am with Tilawat by Mubarak Bhatti Sahib, Qaid of Earlsfield followed by Sadr Majlis leading the Pledge. Then Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya delivered his opening address. Following this there was a presentation by Mohtamid Majlis, outlining the changes to the Alm–e–Inami criteria for the year 2008–2009. For the next part of the programme, the delegates were split into five different groups. Alm–e–Inami rankings from the previous year determined the first 3 groupings. Group 4 was made up of those Qaideen who had only just been appointed and Group 5 consisted solely of Local and Regional Atfal Nazimeen. 38 | Tariq Magazine

tion to Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and the Jama’at over the previous years. The members included Qamar Ahmad During the workshops discussion areas Mirza, Javed Haider Hameed and Abcovered included suggestions and agree- dul Azeem Janjua. There was also a brief ments on how to tackle issues a Qaid speech from the previous Sadr Majlis faces in his Majlis. Mohtamimeen used Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Mirza Fathese sessions to clarify methods and khar Ahmad Sahib. processes they would follow when giving information to the various Majalis. The workgroups then reconvened at their Informal discussion took place between respective locations. This continued until Maghrib prayer at 4.15pm. After Maghthe members of workgroups. rib prayer there were presentations in the The forum then reconvened in the Tahir Tahir Hall from Mohtamim Talim, KaHall for two presentations. The ﬁrst was lim Tahir Sahib; Mohtamim Tarbiyyat, by Sadr Majlis on “The Role of a Qaid”. Dr Shirjeel Tahir Sahib; and Mohtamim The second was by Mohtamim Ishat, Na- Maal, Mubashar Ahmad Sahib. deemur Rehman Sahib on the department’s objectives for the year. Following The ﬁnal session then commenced with these presentations, the forum broke for Tilawat and translation recited by Kalim Tahir Sahib, Mohtamim Talim UK. MoZuhr and Asr prayers and then lunch. htamid Majlis then gave the event report During lunch, presentations were made which was followed by a faith–inspiring by Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Keynote Address by Sadr Majlis. The to a selection of members who would be event concluded with silent prayer and joining Majlis Ansarullah in the coming dinner followed by Isha prayer. January and had shown great dedicaRegional Qaideen were also allocated to groups at this point.

Faith in Youth Why Religion?

Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, • Sikh Dharam: Mandeep Singh Sehmi (Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Midlands Region hosted a youth interJatha) faith conference on Sunday 12 October at Darul Barakaat. A representative from the Jewish comThe “Faith in Youth” event, whose theme munity was also invited, but unfortuwas Why Religion?, was organised as nately could not attend. part of the Khilafat Centenary celebrations. The aim was to establish a network Following the talks there was a short of youth groups in and around the Bir- break for refreshments before the guests, mingham area (Targeting 16–30 year Khuddam and Lajna broke oﬀ into one olds) and to promote a better knowledge of three workshops with the following and understanding of each other’s teach- focus areas: ings. • Eliminating Extremism – Mission Impossible? The conference commenced with Tilawat by Jameel Mwanje and a welcome address by Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, • Religion and State – A Clash of InSadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya terests? UK. • Freedom of Expression – A Need for This was followed by each faith repBoundaries? resentative on the panel sharing their perspectives on the need and purpose Led by facilitators, the workshops gave of religion according to their respective everyone an opportunity to express their traditions. The speakers were: points of view on the issues discussed. Prior to the conference, Khuddam and • Hinduism: Rakesh Gunchala (BAPS Lajna had been provided brieﬁng sheets Swaminarayan Sanstha) to help acquaint them with the Islamic/ Jama’at positions with respect to the top• Christianity: Sally Bossingham (Bir- ics they were interested in contributing mingham Anglican Diocese) to. •

Islam: Waqar Ahmad Ahmedi

Thereafter, everyone

reconvened

the hall for a feedback session and an open forum allowing for any questions and comments. During this session a number of matters were discussed including whether certain freedoms were under threat in Britain and the teaching of creationism in science lessons. Some concluding remarks were made by Dr Syed Farooq Ahmed Sahib, Regional Amir and Maulana Tahir Selby Sahib, Regional Missionary. Dr Nadeem Ahmed, Regional Nazim Tabligh, presented the vote of thanks before Selby Sahib led a silent prayer. Dinner was served afterwards. Excluding a good turnout of Khuddam and Lajna, the number of guests was around 25. This included the Interfaith Advisor to the Bishop of Birmingham and a Danish priest visiting the UK for a few days. The latter was presented with a copy of the Holy Qur’an with Danish translation. The feedback received was very positive. Already a Church of England group in Solihull is planning to host a Christian– Muslim dialogue seminar where Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK will form the main Muslim representation.

in February 2009 | 39

The following extract is the speech delivered at this “Faith in Youth” conference by Waqar Ahmedi Sahib, presenting the Muslim viewpoint.

When Muslims want guidance on anything, they resort to two main sources – the Holy Qur’an (which we believe to be the direct Word of Allah), and AHadith (the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ). These two sources are quite sufficient to find an answer to today’s pressing question – Why Religion? The Qur’an makes the purpose of our creation very clear by stating in Chapter 51: “And I have not created the jinn and the men but that they may worship Me”(51:57) The Arabic word used in this verse, ‘ibadah’ has a vast definition. Not only does it apply simply to prayer, but also includes anything that may result in attaining the pleasure of Allah. Seeking knowledge and helping the poor also count as acts of ‘ibadah’. Many people will say ‘that’s all very well, but why cannot a secular approach – where education and reducing poverty are everyday things - be enough as a moral framework?’ Furthermore, ‘what can religion add to a world in which everyone claims to know their responsibilities?’ In fact, secularism covers only a limited sphere of human behaviour. It concerns itself purely with how humans interact with each other and for that purpose implements laws guaranteeing certain rights. However, what secularism doesn’t do is legislate for the way in which we sometimes view or treat others – holding a grudge or mocking the elderly, for instance. As long as these feelings do not translate into action, one is free to be impolite and harbour animosity towards

40 | Tariq Magazine

others, since these matters stand outside the remit of the law. This is not the case in religion. Being a complete way of life, Islam governs every aspect of human existence – whether it is eating or entertainment, spending or suicide, there is nothing Islam does not offer guidance on. It also goes a step further than secularism by establishing a relationship not just between people, but between creation and its Creator. The Qur’an talks about three states of man; physical, moral and spiritual. There is nothing special about the physical state, what the Qur’an calls Nafse Ammarah, where man follows his natural desire for eating, drinking and sleeping, which does not distinguish him from animals. There is then the moral state called Nafse Lawwama, by which man is able to regulate his emotions and behaviour by the use of reason. This applies to most people and systems in the world today. But even this is not sufficient. The Qur’an states that the most advanced state a human can reach is one that belongs to the spiritual dimension, Nafse Mutmainnah, where the soul is able to connect and find peace with its Creator and Sustainer. What religion actually does is make us accountable for not only our actions, but our innermost thoughts as well. It reminds us that even if we get away with something in this life, as countless criminals throughout history have, following our death there will still be a higher authority we must answer to. If justice is not served in this world, it certainly will be in the next. As such, only religion can create a disciplined society where all are conscious of their attitude, speech and actions. This applies also to how we treat our parents,

neighbours and the wider society in which we live. Religion makes us careful not just about how we conduct ourselves in public, but in private too. The Qur’an sums up this reality by declaring in Chapter 2: “...and whether you disclose what is in your minds or keep it hidden, Allah will call you to account for it, then will He forgive whomsoever He pleases and punish whomsoever He pleases; and Allah has the power to do all that He wills.” (2:285) It is in this fear of God – a fear of losing His love – that true peace can be achieved, whether at a local, national or international level. A person thinking of committing a crime would stop as soon as he sensed the presence of the police. Likewise the thought of God can also prevent one from committing a sin which he or she would have otherwise not hesitated to carry out. Experience demonstrates that in societies where faith in God is strong, compared to those where atheism is rampant, crime is low. So without a belief in accountability or an afterlife, there seems little need or incentive for us to be honest, charitable, patient, forgiving or sacriﬁcing. Yes, there are certain philosophies which promote the merits of these virtues, but they do not make them binding on their followers as religion does. So what is better, a world in which people feel that practicing these values is obligatory, or simply optional? As far as the intellectual progress of the world is concerned, religion too has rendered an invaluable service, without which we may still have been in the Dark Ages. For example, learning has been so greatly emphasised in Islam that

the Holy Prophet Muhammad once said, “The ink of a scholar is holier than the blood of a martyr.”

greet others, they are required to say ‘Assalaamu alaikum’, that is, ‘Peace be upon you’. What better way to start any conversation?

The outstanding contributions made by the early Muslim thinkers and scientists arguably inspired the age of reason in the West. Without Islam’s inﬂuence in the ﬁelds of mathematics and medicine, for instance, we may have never have had the Renaissance era in Europe.

Islam reminds its followers to treat those of other faiths as members of their own family. The founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad а writes:

Likewise, in the sphere of humanitarian work, it was religion again that gave birth to the scores of charities committed to alleviateing suﬀering. For a believer, service to mankind is not an occasional gesture, but a lifelong duty. The Qur’an condemns those who fail to take care of orphans or feed the poor. (107:2-4)

“The principle to which we adhere is that we have kindness at heart for the whole of mankind. If anyone sees the house of a Hindu neighbour on ﬁre and does not come forward to help extinguish it, I most truly declare that he does not belong to us. Likewise, if anyone sees someone attempting to murder a Christian yet does not endeavour to save him, I most truly declare that he does not belong to us.”

Of course, no religion at its source promotes anything evil, all divine scriptures teach people to be loving to their families, to be good neighbours, to be helpful citizens, not to become blinded by wealth, etc. They also forbid adultery, corruption, violence and other ills. Messengers of God were preachers of peace who spoke out against injustice and oppression, striving to replace ignorance with inspiration, darkness with light and to bring us nearer to our God. It is this God who we believe is not an ancient entity conﬁned to pages of the past, but an eternal reality that hears and speaks even today. We need Him and His guidance just as a child relies on its mother for sustenance and direction. One can imagine what our world would be without religion. Some people argue that the many wars witnessed throughout history and indeed in our own times have been waged in the name of religion. Yes, but the same is true of democracy. Does this mean we should do away with democracy? The concept of peace is so deep rooted in Islam that the very name ‘Islam’ means peace. A Muslim is literally one who practices peace. When Muslims

In another place he says: “Be kind and merciful to humanity, for all are His creatures: Do not oppress them with your tongue, or hands, or in any other way. Always work for the good of mankind. Never unduly assert yourselves with pride over others, even those who are placed under you. Never use abusive language for anyone, even though he abuses you. Be humble in spirit, kind and gentle, and forgiving, sympathetic towards all and wishing them well, so that you should be accepted.” “There are many who pretend to be kind, gentle and forgiving, but inside they are wolves; there are many on the outside who look pure, but in their hearts they are serpents. You cannot be accepted in the presence of the Lord unless you are pure, both on the outside and inside.” It is these features of religion that can lead a rational mind only to conclude that religion is indeed a force of good, which is in great need in our world today, tomorrow and always.

February 2009 | 41

My Trip to The Gambia By Qasid Saﬁr

Trying to teach the most hated subject in The Gambia... Maths!

1. What prompted you to go? Growing up as a Waqfe Nau you are told stories of Ahmadis who served in remote places as doctors, missionaries and teachers. I always wished that one day I could follow in their footsteps. During one of Huzur’s Waqfe Nau class he was talking about pioneer Waqfs who served in diﬃcult conditions in Africa. Huzur mentioned my Grandfather, Dr Safeeruddin Bashir Ahmad, who served from 1950 to 1956 as the founding Head teacher of the First Jama’at School in Ghana. Huzur then said that my cousin and I should go and work there for some time.

2. What were your ﬁrst impressions when you arrived in The Gambia? 42 | Tariq Magazine

Everyone from our brothers in the Jama’at to my fellow teachers at school would always greet one another with an unreserved smile and open arms. I was immediately made to feel most welcome. From Amir Sahib of Gambia to the Head Teacher and the Chairman of Humanity First Gambia, all the Jama’at dignitaries were very modest, open and kind hearted. I was humbled by the respect shown by the students to me, most of whom were older than me.

ﬁnished at 6.00pm, running 7 days a week. I was teaching around 45 oﬃcial periods a week. I had it easy as some other teachers were teaching up to 60 periods per week. In my spare time I established a small commercial vegetable garden which eventually provided a regular income for two families.

4. What was the standard of education? The students were being prepared for

3. What were you doing out the WASSCE examinations, an interthere? mediate between GCSEs and A Levels. I was posted at Humanity First’s Masroor Senior Secondary School as a Maths Teacher. The school was only established in 2005 but already had a student population of over 700 and 15 teaching staﬀ. Most of my time was spent teaching at the school and marking papers. A normal school day started at 8.30am and

2008 was the ﬁrst year Masroor school entered students for the WASSCE examinations. Despite many (not all) students being hard working and diligent, the reason why they could not be compared to students in UK was due to their commitments at home and the lack of resources and teachers. Imagine trying to get through school without text

Diligent students at work in class

books, access to Internet. a local library or parents who could help you with your homework and having to come home every day to labour intensive work.

school for some time or because they were studying at Arabic Schools, like Madrassas, before joining the oﬃcial English speaking education system later.

fulness to the teachers for the eﬀort they were making to educate them, something unheard of back home.

8. Can you describe the facilities 5. How many children were in a 7. What is the value of a good in the Humanity First School? class? education in The Gambia? The average class size was around 50 but due to the lack of classrooms in the ﬁrst term up to 3 classes had to be taught in one classroom. I remember teaching a class of 140. However by the second term new classrooms were prepared and no more than 60 were in a classroom at a time.

6. What type of background did the children have? Most of the students were aged between seventeen and twenty-one. Many of them were up to twenty ﬁve years of age and a few were married. The reason why many of them were older than you would expect was either due to ﬁnancial constraints causing them to pull out of

The overwhelming demand for education in The Gambia has forced Masroor and all other schools to run separate morning and afternoon shifts – eﬀectively holding two days of school every weekday. In The Gambia, unlike the UK, education is not a right but a privilege. In some villages, parents can’t send their children to school as they need them to work in the farms. One student, Demba Sanyang, said he was the only boy in his whole village who had attended school. There were students who attended some schools, not Masroor, but had to pull out just before the examinations as their parents could not aﬀord to pay for their exam or school fees. Masroor School students regularly expressed their appreciation and grate-

Blackboards and desks. That was pretty much it apart from some computers which were never used due to the lack of reliable power, a makeshift lab and some science equipment which had been donated by the Wallington Grammar School. There was no running water or electricity for about four miles from the school. Local sellers would come to serve a lunch of minced bony fish with spaghetti in bread and flavoured rice. Drinking water was acquired from a hand pump driven borehole and the toilets were modest. The remaining land was large enough to accommodate several full sized football pitches, and was being used as a sports field. Despite the setbacks the school was performing better than most other

February 2009 | 43

Gambian Senior Secondary Schools and was rapidly developing. During my time at the school it doubled in size from six classrooms to twelve.

9. Can you describe some of the challenging situations you had to face? If you consider the pioneer Waqfs who served in Africa and those who are currently serving there such as Mr Amin Cheema, who has been serving there for 13 years, whose children were born there and whose work takes him travelling every few weeks for days on end; then my challenges were insigniﬁcant. However in response to the question one incident comes to mind. During the Khuddam Ijtema I suﬀered from severe diarrhoea. I had to make do with a coke can for a lota and a few bits of tissue paper. By one o’clock at night my toilet paper rations had depleted and I went to First Aid, the only place open at that time for tissue paper and anti-diarrhoea pills. They could only give me cotton wool, and the pills they gave me, I later found out were

44 | Tariq Magazine

laxatives! There was no light so I used my wind up torch. The whole night passed filling up my coke can with water, winding up my torch and making do with cotton wool almost until sunrise. It was the last day of the Ijtema and we had to return home. I found myself clinging on to the back of a pick up truck with seven others and luggage for the ten hour journey back home. It wasn’t too bad as we passed the time singing African Ahmadi Nazms together. Looking back on the seven months I spent in Gambia, despite these minor difficulties the Jama’at made every possible effort to make my stay comfortable, and all challenging situations were made easy with the help of Allah.

opening a fridge full of goodies and of course, my mother’s cooking. I was sent to teach, but I feel I have learnt more from them than they have from me. Ten people eating from one bowl illustrates the Gambian way of life. In Gambia it is not uncommon for a stranger to enjoy a meal and a place to sleep in one’s home. They would stop at no length to assist you expecting nothing in return. There is a common saying in Gambia; “If you help someone, one day God will help you.” I think we in the “developed” world have a lot to learn from their way of life.

11. What advice would you give to anyone else thinking of going?

10. What do you think we can learn from what you saw in The I do not feel I am in a position to give Gambia? advice as my experience is limited comMy time in The Gambia has taught me to appreciate things which I before would have taken for granted like switching on the lights, opening a tap of warm water,

pared to others who have, and continue to, serve for many years in far more difﬁcult situations. However all I would say is; trust in Allah, expect nothing and be ready to accept anything thrown at you.

Fulcrum Africa By Asif Bhunnoo, Raﬃ Sami and Attique Rana

Fulcrum Challenge Limited is a British registered charity which is aimed at the Personal Development of 16 and 17 year old A–level students. Fulcrum Village Community Projects are designed to be part of the “Learning Journey” taking part in Fulcrum’s Personal Development Programme. These projects are situated in both India and Africa, and are designed to support the education of some of the poorest of children in the remotest of areas. Normally they are aimed at primary school children between the ages of 4 and 12 and entail either building a school or carrying out extensive repairs. The students have to raise £3,100 over a period of approximately 9 months. We still remember, it was at the beginning of year 12, when our teacher Mr Adams came to our class and informed us about the opportunity of our lifetimes: going to Africa and building a school for an undeveloped country. None of us three wanted to miss out this great opportunity so we all gave our names to Mr Adams. After that he was the one who was in touch with Fulcrum until we were accepted.

All of us were really interested in building a school in an undeveloped country. We wanted to experience the different culture and the differentiation between welfare and poverty. None of us ever went to Africa before, although Asif ’s dad is from Mauritius. Then Fulcrum was also part of ASDAN, which promised us 70 UCAS points after the end of the trip but only if we would finish our coursework on Africa, which we had to start before Africa, during Africa and then also in Africa. Our first objective was to write a letter to Huzur Aqdas for prayers and to inform him about our activity. Then we also spoke to Ameer Sahib and informed him about our aim. He was very delighted and also arranged for us to meet Mirza Fakhar Ahmad Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK who was most kind in personally sending emails to UK Khuddam to sponsor us. After that, all of us three had always a close link to Nasir Khwaja Sahib, who is Mohtamim Khidmat–e–Khalq. He was a great help and also the one who promoted our activity in the Jama’at and through him many Khuddam sponsored

us at our Just Giving website. Apart from the Jama’at we also raised most of the money by physical labour work. We washed cars every day after school for at least 4 to 5 hours in one month. Sometimes even in freezing weather when working conditions were much harder. Then we also arranged football tournaments in school. The most successful tournament was the teacher’s football tournament, where we made £650 in one day. . We also held many student football tournaments. Apart from that we sold ice poles in break times and held a Sunday market in our school canteen. Then all of us also individually raised money from friends and going round houses. It wasn’t always easy to raise all the money. We still remember when we set up our table top sale we only made £100 from a promising £300. However with Allah’s help we made £450 from a football tournament from which we only expected £150. We also created a Just Giving website Account. Our main sponsor was the Jama’at. Through the Jama’at we were able to get £2,419.41. So with Allah’s help we raised the £4,650 before 14th August 2008. Therefore, we February 2009 | 45

went to Heathrow Airport on the 14th of August 2008. When our plane arrived at Kilimanjaro Airport we had to continue our journey by bus and soon we realised the extent of poverty in Tanzania. Our journey was a three hour drive from the airport. We didn’t know our exact destination. Soon it was clear that we where heading towards our first camp site. Arriving at the campsite we had to build our tents; luckily I got the best tent which was brand new. After building our tents we had dinner which was wonderful. One of our morals was not to waste any food and for me it was my priority. The first three days were very tiring because we had to hike 13 miles each day till we reached our next camp site. During our hike we saw different kind of things such as people walking a long distance to get water or other basic goods. That’s when I realised how Allah gave us everything we need. This made me think even more about how much food or water we waste. After a thoughtful walk we finally had lunch under a big tree which supplied us with lots of shadow. After a 46 | Tariq Magazine

half an hour break we started the walk again but this time it was even worse because the sun was at its peak. The heat was intense. After this testing walk we finally arrived at our project site where we met up with the students and teachers. They gave us a warm welcome and by singing their national anthem for us. However, I was thinking about the difference between us and them and how we live. The first thing on my agenda was to pray my Fajr Salaat. Our day started very early, all of us had to be ready at 8am sharp and be at our project site as soon as possible. We learned lots of new things and became more mature day by day. We learnt how to lead a group where you are the leader of the day and you have to look after each and every one of the 26 people. This is not an easy job where you are a stranger in a country where you don’t have a clue what the environment is like and what can go wrong. But despite all the odds we led the group from walking for 3 days to the project site at Magara Secondary School.

On top of leading the group, we learnt how to work in a group. This is very important because if you take a stick and break it; you’ll see that the stick beaks easily. Now take a handful of sticks and break it; you’ll notice it’s really hard to break them. It’s the same as working in a group, you can’t break what they are doing and you finish the work quickly and efficiently. There is no point of you working in a group or at your job or even at home where you can’t communicate with each other and what you’ll find is that this will create arguments within the group as you won’t agree with certain things so it’s really important to communicate with each other to maintain a peaceful environment. Other than all these points some us learnt Do It Yourself (DIY) skills. Some of us developed our DIY skills and we learnt that the method of building things here is every different to how we build things back at home in the UK. Now in schools or during holiday you might have had a water fight or at home

when brushing your teeth you leave your tap running. Well perhaps the most important thing was that water is priceless. We walked for 7 hours under the boiling sun with just 2 litres of water and we ran out of water. Even though our bottles were refilled, we were thinking about others who don’t have the luxury for their water bottles to be refilled. And on top of water, time is gold. We only had two weeks in Africa to do what we came to do and it was intense work we did and all three of us lost weight and became much stronger than before. But you don’t have time to waste because your time is now and our time was there and we made the most out of it. It all depends on you. Now this was an opportunity where we had the chance to teach an English lesson and we were lucky to have an English teacher with us and we learnt how to plan a lesson. This made us appreciate even more on the education we receive because at the end of the lesson, the teacher told us that the student had never joined learning English before you came. He later on adapted our method of teaching but the amount of work we went through to prepare a lesson was incredibly hard which meant that we had to stay up late when we should have been in bed. The most important point of this trip was not just about you delivering your best for this project but it was about you learning about yourself. And we learnt a lot about ourselves and we all thought that we knew ourselves better but it wasn’t the case, it was our peers, our group, the people that we worked with who told us about ourselves. So we improved our personal effectiveness which is what this trip was all about, you delivering your best and learning about yourselves. But it wasn’t just about learning and learning. It was also about you having fun because if you did not enjoy what you were doing then there is no point of you doing it in the first place because you’re not going to put the best of you into it and we were committed to this project and we delivered our best and at the same time we had loads of fun and at the end of the trip, we were given a treat of visiting National Tarangire Park where we camped for 2 days enjoying the view and watching different animals like zebras, lions and elephants. We really enjoyed our trip and are looking forward to helping the Jama’at as much as we can with our experience.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO SIGN UP FOR FUTURE TRIPS CONTACT KEK@KHUDDAM.ORG.UK February 2009 | 47

Scotland Tarbiyyat Forum By Jamil Ahmed Bhatti (Naib Regional Qaid)

Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Scotland organised a Tarbiyyat Forum on the 21st of December at the Bait-Ur Rahman Mosque in Glasgow. Amongst the participants were Atfal, Khuddam, Ansar, Lajna as well as Nasrat. Also members from other areas of Scotland such as Glasgow, Dundee and Edinburgh attended this blessed event. The preparation of the Tarbiyyat Forum started when a draft programme was received from National Tarbiyyat Department. The Scotland Regional Qaid, Ahmed Owusu-Konadu Sahib and Naib Regional Qaid in charge of Tarbiyyat, Dr Imran Ahmad Sahib made some changes to the programme to suit Scotland Region and proposed that the programme should not only be limited to the Khuddam but also extended to the whole Jama’at. Regional Amir Scotland, Abdul Ghaﬀar Abid welcomed this suggestion and approved the programme for all members 48 | Tariq Magazine

of the Jama’at in Scotland.

Community, and that the programme was to train people to stand up to this The Tarbiyyat Forum started with the task. The Tarbiyyat Forum was then ofZuhr and Asr prayers at 1pm. It was ﬁcially started with a silent prayer led by followed by the recitation of the Holy Regional Missionary Scotland, Maulana Quran by Naib Qaid Glasgow, Aman- Muhammad Akram Malik Sahib. Ullah Khalid Sahib and English translation by Naib Qaid Edinburgh, Moham- The Forum consisted of lectures on the mad Ahsan Ahmad Sahib, after which topics: Etiquettes within & around the a poem was recited by Qaid Edinburgh, Mosque delivered by President of GlasNaveed Ahmed Khan Sahib. The open- gow Jama’at, Mubashar Ahmad Khan ing session which was chaired by the Sahib; Common Mistakes in Namaaz & President of Edinburgh Jama’at, Haﬁz their corrections by Naib Regional Qaid Ur Rahman Malik Sahib, also included in charge of Tarbiyyat Dr Imran Ahmad an introductory speech by the Regional Sahib; and how do we develop love for Qaid Scotland, Ahmed Owusu-Konadu the Holy Qur’an by Maulana MuhamSahib who highlighted that this Tarbiy- mad Akram Malik Sahib. After the yat forum is essentially a call of reminder speeches, there was a Question & Anto all the Ahmadi brothers and sisters swer Session and then Maghrib Namaaz. to realise the role we Ahmadis have to This session ended with refreshments. play in the current society as well as the responsibility, which lies upon us as be- The second session started with a Powing members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim erPoint presentation on Drugs, Alcohol

and Bad Company and their solutions by a student from Edinburgh Qiadat, Isa Ameen Sher Sahib, and then Purdah in Men by Regional Qaid Scotland. In addition to the five lectures, two interactive group discussions took place where members were split into six respective groups, four in the men’s side and two in the Lajna side to discuss two topics. The first topic the members were asked to discuss and report back to the rest of the audience was “How do we get members interested in Jama’at activities and regular in them especially going to Mosque for Namaaz, etc”. The second topic that the members discussed was “Islamic Marriage” where members were asked to focus on three specific points: How can we make it more attractive in this modern society and yet pleasing to Allah? Problems Associated with Marriage Breakdown and Duties to Wife/ Husband versus Parents. Masha’Allah all the different groups came up with very wonderful and useful ideas and suggestions, which were surely beneficial and enlightening to all participants both young and old. Our respected Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK who had wished to grace the occasion with his presence and address us couldn’t make it due to the fact that he had to chair the same programme held in Baitul Futuh, London. But he never left us alone and was kind enough to have emailed us his address, which was read out to the whole audience before the chairman’s closing remarks. The programme ended at 7.30 pm with the concluding address by the chairman of the second session Regional Amir Scotland, followed by silent prayer by Regional Missionary Scotland. Overall, the programme was a great success and was enjoyed by all the attendees. At the end of the Forum, a delicious dinner was served after which Isha Prayer was offered in congregation. Feedback forms were then given to participants to fill out. The total attendance was around 142, out of which 45 were Khuddam, 18 Atfal, 19 Ansar, 34 Lajna, 15 Nasrat and 11 children under the age of 7.

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Charity Challenge 2009 — THE MKA10K Have you ever thought what it would feel like to spend everyday of your life not knowing when your next meal would be, not knowing whether today would be the day when you wouldn’t be beaten to within an inch of your life or not knowing whether you will even be alive by the end of the year?

This year the event will be held on Sunday May 10th in Bradford. The charities we will be sponsoring this year are NSPCC, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Save the Children, Humanity First, the Royal Hospital for Neuro–Disability, Leukaemia Research, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Barnados.

These are some of the harsh realities faced by thousands of people across the UK and millions across less developed parts of the world.

Please keep referring to the Charity Challenge website www. mkacc.org for up to date information as this year the aim is to use this site to provide helpful tips for fundraising as well as training for the event. The route will be a 10 kilometres round route and participants will be free to run or walk it or both. Training advice for those wishing to post fast times will also be given on the website. If possible, the fastest time of individuals will be posted on the website following the event.

Over the last twenty years Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK have helped to address these issues that people, ranging from very young children to the infirm elderly, have to contend with. We have done this through the concerted efforts of our national charity events and what we now hold as the National Charity Challenge. The first Charity walk, a 26 mile “Marathon”, was held on the 18th of May 1985 and was initiated by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV, Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad , with the premise that Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK should hold such events to pursue physical challenges. The emphasis in the early days was more on the physical aspect but as the event grew in stature and influence the money raising element started coming to the fore. Relationships with Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Save the Children Fund, The Royal Hospital for Nuero–Disability and Leukaemia Research have been firmly established over the years. As a Majlis we take part and get invited to their events on a regular basis including a number of award ceremonies. Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya have raised approximately half a million pounds through this event alone since its inception and by the Grace of Allah, as we are becoming better in raising money for charity, the amounts that we are now collecting each year has risen dramatically; over £100,000 raised by us on our last individual outing in 2007†.

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The main aim however is to raise as much money as possible and if every reader who reads this article were to raise a few hundred pounds from family, friends, colleagues and associates then we can even achieve double of what we achieved last time, . Advice on how to setup of a JustGiving link is available on the website and you are encouraged to use this avenue as it is the easiest yet one of the most effective ways of raising money. Pick a charity you want to raise money for, setup your link and send a copy of the link to info@mkacc.org and we will inform the respective charity to allocate your amount raised to our event and so thereby to our total. Above all, please pray for the success of this event, that Allah, the Most Beneficent, watches over all our efforts and manifolds them many times over to help raise the profile of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya in the UK but much more importantly to raise the quality of life of those people that are in desperate need of help. † 2008 event was a combined event of all the UK Jamaat auxiliaries.

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8 Letters and Comments Sighting of the New Moon By Sirajul Haq Khan, Mohtamim Tabligh

Dear All,

Regarding the annual moon sighting controversy I came across some very interesting analyses and statements on the www.moonsighting.com website. With regards to critics who ask why we are celebrating Eid on Thursday 2nd October 2008, there are certain things to keep in mind. For example, the rigorously authenticated Hadith of the beloved Messenger is very clear: “Allah’s Messenger said: ‘Whenever you sight the new moon [of the month of Ramadan] observe fast, and when you sight it [the new moon of Shawwal] break it, and if the sky is cloudy for you, then observe fast for thirty days.’” Narrated by Abu Hurairah; Sahih Muslim; Hadith No. 2378 It is from this Hadith that we extract the obligatory act of attempting to sight the new moon – i.e. that a Community of Muslims should not merely rely on calculations or scientiﬁc data, but that they should attempt to sight the moon for themselves, and as far as I know, our Jama’at, in London at least, has made such attempts to sight the moon. Secondly, the new moon, in order to be visible to the naked eye, has to be between (at least) 6–8 hours old before it can be seen; and even in this case the atmospheric conditions have to be perfect, and you also have to be placed in a geographically convenient position to be able to see it.

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Fourthly, if you look at the charts at the following web address http://www. moonsighting.com/1429shw.html, it shows when the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal is possible in various geographical locations around the world on the 29th Sept, 30th Sept, and 1st Oct. Obviously, when the new moon of Shawwal is sighted, then the next day is Eid. If you look at the colour-coded charts at http:// www.moonsighting.com/1429shw.html, it shows that the new moon of Shawwal is only visible in the UK on Weds 1st October – and even then it is only visible using an optical aid such as a telescope. And there is a small chance that it may be visible to the naked eye, but one would need to be in the extreme SouthWest of England to see it. Furthermore, it is accepted that if the moon is sighted anywhere in one’s country, those in that country should follow this sighting, unless there is a significant time-difference across different parts of the same coun-

try, such as in the USA. Therefore, , it seems that our Jama’at is celebrating Eid on exactly the right day. Obviously if the moon is sighted tonight, this may change, and in that case Eid would be tomorrow. Otherwise, the new moon is supposedly to be sighted tomorrow and thus Eid would be on Thursday in the UK, in either circumstance, whether one is following the strict, literal interpretation of the prophetic narration of viewing the new moon with only the naked eye, or whether they allow the use of optical aids. The only issue would arise if people started Ramadhan a day early (as many Muslims may have done in the UK). In this case, they would have no option but to do Eid tomorrow as they will have completed 30 fasts and you cannot keep more than 30 fasts, as is instructed in the Hadith [i.e., if the moon is not seen on the 29th night of Ramadan, then you do not do ‘Eid on the 30th – rather complete 30 fasts and do ‘Eid the following day.] And Allah knows best.

Thirdly, whether and when you sight the new moon depends on the method used. Because the Hadith does not speciﬁcally state that one should sight the moon with the naked eye, some Muslims al-

low the use of telescopic apparatus and hold such sightings as valid and in accordance with the prophetic narration. I do not know whether our Jama’at always accepts this as sound methodology, but I do know that there is a diﬀerence of opinion regarding this matter between Sunni Muslims amongst the Ahl–al– Sunnah wa al–Jama’ah.

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Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad leading a silent prayer at the inauguration of Alâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mahdi Mosque, Bradford