Tariq Magazine (Volume 15 Issue 5)

Workers at Jalsa Salana 2010

Tariq Magazine Volume 15 • Issue 5 • September 2010

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 Email: info@khuddam.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 1135657 Editorial Tommy Kallon Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK Aziz Ahmad Hafiz Naib Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and Chief Editor Muzaffar Bhatti Mohtamim Ishaat Farooq Aftab Assistant Editor

Contents 1 Words of Wisdom The Holy Qur’an Hadith Writings of the Promised Messiah [as]

2 2 3

2 Editorial Message from Sadr Majlis Editorial

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3 Islam Ahmadiyyat Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] The Promised Son Biography of some of the Martyrs of 28 May 2010 A few Questions and Answers about Jesus Christ [as]

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4 News & Events 19th National MKA Hike to Great Gable, Western Lakes (April 2010) Hiking Club Guidance for Members Dear Editor Interview with a New Ahmadi National Football Tournament

18 20 22 23 25

5 Articles Truthfulness of the Promised Messiah [as] A “Good Man”

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6 Books of the Promised Messiah [as] Jang-i-Muqaddas Khutba Ilhamiyya

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Design & Typesetting Irfan Chaudhry Tariq M Chowdhry Proofing Waqar Ahmedi Safeer Ahmed Tanweer Dar Mirza Rehan Akram Hannan Bhatti All correspondence should be forwarded directly to: The Editor, Tariq Magazine Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, Baitul Futuh, 181 London Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5PT Tariq Magazine is published by Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya (UK), the youth organisation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK 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 UK.

Tariq Magazine September 2010

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1 Words of Wisdom The Holy Qur’an ‘’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 Ch. 33: V. 57

Hadith

Hadhrat Abu Hurairah [ra] narrated that the Holy Prophet [saw] said: ‘’Do not make your houses graves, and do not make my grave a place of festivity. But invoke blessings on me, for your blessings reach me wherever you may be.’’

Reported by: Abu Dawud

O Allah, bless Muhammad and his people, as You did bless Ibraham and his people – You are indeed the Praiseworthy, the exalted.

O Allah, prosper Muhammad and his people, as You did prosper Ibraham and his people – You are indeed the Praiseworthy, the exalted.

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Words of Wisdom

Writings of the Promised Messiah [as] Poem of the Promised Messiah [as] written in love of the Holy Prophet [saw] as reproduced on page 304 of “Invitation to Ahmadiyyat� by Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra], Khalifatul Masih II.

There is light miraculous in the soul of Muhammad, There is a ruby rare in the mine of Muhammad.

The heart is cleared of all darkness, If it becomes one of the lovers of Muhammad.

I wonder at the wisdom of those fools Who turn away from the feast abundant of Muhammad.

No man in the two worlds do I know Who shares the greatness and glory of Muhammad.

A hundred times disgusted is God with him Who harbours hostility to Muhammad.

God Himself consumes in the fire the contemptible worm Who chooses to be one of the enemies of Muhammad.

If you want to shake off the intoxication of the baser self, Then come and sit among the devotees of Muhammad.

If you wish that God Himself should sing your praises, Then sing sincerely the praises of Muhammad.

Lookest thou for proof for his truth? Then his lover be, For Muhammad himself is the proof of Muhammad.

A head have I to offer at the altar of Ahmad, And a heart ready to be sacrificed for Muhammad.

By the tresses of the Messenger of God, It is true, I am infatuated by the resplendent face of Muhammad.

Whether I am killed or burnt in this path, Never will I turn away from the court of Muhamamad.

In matters of faith I fear not the whole world, For I am dyed in the faith of Muhammad.

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2 Editorial

Message from Sadr Majlis [salam] May the Lord of mankind open unto you the gates of His mercy and may He so ordain that you are always accompanied by the supplication of His angels.

According to the Holy Qur’an, the purpose of man’s creation was not just to create a consciousness but ultimately to nurture, improve and enhance that consciousness so that, realising the consummate beauty of God as reflected in His creation, he submits to God and shapes his life according to His Will.

For this reason man is created in the image of God meaning he has been endowed with all the faculties and potentialities to enable him, through acquiring godly attributes, to become as perfect as he possibly can be and emerge more like God. It is not a fixed goal for as God is boundless in His attributes so every journey towards Him remains limitless. The nearer man becomes to His Creator, the stronger becomes the bond between man and God. It is a noble objective even if its fulfillment is not an easy task. It calls for the highest degree of self–discipline and self–restraint in the face of temptations and evil inclinations. It demands steadfastness and fortitude in the face of trials and tribulations. It requires that man, in adversity and prosperity, remains in humble prostration at the threshold of God Almighty supplicating His succour and guidance.

Man must keep his Creator alive in his heart and mind always and associate nothing in His worship so that he can achieve communion and union with Him. At a time when much of the world has inverted the true relationship between man and God, when the concept of God is repudiated or considered merely an adventitious extra, it is my sincere hope and prayer that we, the members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK, through self–reformation and self–purification, through example and precept, become instrumental in the establishment of the Unity of God on earth, not only fulfilling the purpose of our creation thereby but also helping others do the same. May Allah enable us to do so. Ameen.

[wasalam]

Yours humbly, Tommy Kallon.

Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK

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Tommy Kallon Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK

It is not a fixed goal for as God is boundless in His attributes so every journey towards Him remains limitless.

Editorial

Editorial Recent weeks have shown us the power of nature and how helpless man is in its path.

The devastating floods in Pakistan have awoken our consciousnesses in many ways. A host of human reactions and behaviours have been witnessed. There have been some who have turned to their Creator in deep supplication asking for His Mercy and Protection from the elements, some have described it as an Act of God in retribution for past sins. Comments have been made far and wide about the response by the international community, etc.

Through all these events and particularly throughout the month of Ramadhan one thing that becomes apparent is that how in times of sheer desperation we turn and cry to our Lord for assistance whether we have a faith or not, a natural cry for help emanates from our hearts.

It is however sad that it takes such natural calamities and scenes of destruction and devastation to melt our hearts and for us to supplicate to our Creator asking for His Mercy and Protection.

As the world goes through troubled times with natural and man made disasters, economic crises, social and political upheaval, religious unrest, etc it serves as a wake up call for those of faith and Ahmadi Muslims in particular to reassess our relationship with our Creator. How close is our relationship with our God? Do we turn to Him only in times of need or is He a close friend in whom we confide on a daily basis?

In an age when it is “fashionable” to be “Godless”, when all around the winds of atheism permeate the atmosphere, it is important as Ahmadi Muslims to revitalise our connection with our Lord. In this regard Ramadhan has provided us with a fertile environment in which to strengthen that bond with the Almighty. Let us pray that this Ramadhan that we have passed through serves to strengthen our spirit, soften our heart and make us prostrate at the thrown of God Almighty.

As members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya lets pray that we become that spiritual body of young men that rises to the challenges that lie ahead with firm conviction, deep faith and a strength of character marked by a complete submission to the Will of Allah Almighty and a dedicated sense of service for His work and for the service of mankind.

Dr Aziz Ahmad Hafiz Naib Sadr, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK and Chief Editor

Pray that we become that spiritual body of young men that rises to the challenges that lie ahead with firm conviction, deep faith and a strength of character marked by a complete submission to the Will of Allah Almighty

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3 Islam Ahmadiyyat Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] The Promised Son

By Abid Khan

Continued from Tariq Magazine Volume 15 issue 4 The demise of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih I [ra] occurred on 13th March 1914. Upon his passing the mantle of Khilafate-Ahmadiyya was to pass to Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra] who was elected the following day on 14th March. It was at this point in his life, at the very youthful age of twenty five, that the life of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] changed forever. For more than half a century, he led the Jama’at through some of the most difficult and challenging experiences it had ever faced; times of genuine crisis were to emerge and yet at each juncture Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] used his [‘infinite’ wisdom seems inappropriate as a description for anyone except Allah – possible alternatives: ‘profound’, ‘far-sighted’, ‘great’] wisdom to guide the Jama’at towards never ending success.

The propagation of Islam and the message of the Promised Messiah [ra] was at the forefront of every decision and every act of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra]. Thus just a few weeks after his election he called a meeting of Jama’at officials (Majlis-eShura) in which he outlined his vision. He said: “I would like to see the truth of Ahmadiyyat shine far and wide in the world.”

His direction was clear; he wanted the Jama’at to spread to different countries. His vision was based on two clear principles.

First and foremost that Islam was a universal religion and thus the true Islam had to be conveyed to the entire world. It was not merely his duty to convey it to the people of India or the Subcontinent but in fact to each and every country, city, town and village. Secondly, he could foresee that the Jama’at was to face difficulties and growing opposition. Notwithstanding his utter belief that God Almighty would protect His message and the people chosen to deliver it in the latter days, it was very important for the Jama’at to be established in other countries so that, among other reasons, if the persecution of the Jama’at ever became extreme there would be Ahmadis in other countries to support and help those in need. By spreading far and wide, he knew it would be impossible for any single Government to destroy the Ahmadiyya Jama’at.Thus he encouraged Ahmadis to learn different languages and set up a dedicated office, ‘Nazarat Dawat-o-Tabligh’, for propagation in 1919. Though the Jama’at at that time was quite weak financially, whatever means it did have at its disposal was blessed greatly by God Almighty and such limited means sufficed to send Missionaries to different

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Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra], Khalifatul Masih II

countries and ultimately build mosques and mission houses from where God’s message could be propagated and celebrated.

Consequently, the Jama’at became established in nearly fifty new countries during the Khilafat of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] . These countries were spread across the world and so the part of the prophecy of Musleh Maud [ra] relating to him becoming famous across the world was magnificently fulfilled.

Throughout Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] Khilafat the Jama’at continued to develop under his guidance. New structures and means of administration were developed and the Jama’at was sub-divided into separate auxiliary organisations based on age and sex. One of his truly great schemes was that of ‘Tehrike-Jadid’ which was set up in 1934 as a means to enable the spread of the Jama’at far and wide. Initially it was developed as a three year scheme but it was then increased gradually until in 1953 when Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] announced that it would be a permanent structure of the Jama’at. Similarly the

Islam Ahmadiyyat institution of Waqf-e-Jadid was set up in 1957 as a means to promote missionary and reformatory activities in every village, town and city of India and Pakistan. This scheme too was extremely blessed and became a permanent part of the Jama’at’s administration.

The importance of Tabligh and Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s vision became apparent both during and after his Khilafat.

During his Khilafat the Jama’at faced many trials not least during the Partition of India when the vast majority of Ahmadis left Qadian and faced great persecution. Many Ahmadis were killed at that time. Furthermore in 1953 riots spread across Pakistan in opposition to the Jama’at, again many Ahmadis were killed, others were attacked or boycotted. These were extremely grave and trying times. Through Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] leadership and Allah’s Divine Grace, the Jama’at emerged from each of these events stronger than before. The ultimate importance of the establishment of foreign Missions became apparent many years after Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] demise. In 1984, the fourth Khalifa, Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrta, was forced to migrate from Pakistan to England due to the cruel and discriminatory regime of General Zia-ul-Haq. Through God Almighty’s Grace the UK Jama’at had long been established and because of this they were able to assist Hadhrat Khalifa-tul Masih IV [rh] immediately as he set up offices in London so that the future progress of the Jama’at would not be hindered. [ra]

The UK Jama’at was particularly blessed that in 1924 Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] chose the country for his first foreign tour as Khalifatul Masih. He had been invited to address the ‘Conference of Living Religions’ that was to be held at Wembley in September 1924. Thus along with twelve companions, Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] travelled to London, breaking his journey at Damascus, Palestine and Egypt. He also passed through Italy and France. His arrival in the UK was greeted with widespread media coverage and warmth from the general public. On 23rd September 1924, Hadhrat Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarullah Khan Sahib [ra] read out Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] paper which was later published as a book entitled ‘Ahmadiyyat the True Islam’. The paper was designed to highlight the true Islamic teachings and purpose of the advent of the Promised Messiah [ra]. His lecture was greatly received and again coverage was given in the media. The Manchester Guardian wrote: “The sensation of the conference so far was an appearance this afternoon of a new sect of Islam, which claims to have been founded 34 years ago by the Messiah of Biblical and other prophecy and to have an express divine command to lead mankind to God through Islam. A white-turbaned, black-bearded Indian of a radiant, pleasing countenance, who described himself as his Holiness the Khilafat Al Messiah Alhaj, the Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad – or for short his Holiness Khalifa-tul Masih – presented this bold claim in a paper entitled “The Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam”. He did not read his paper himself but said a few sentences in excellent English... He had, he added, a million followers all over the world. He was accompanied on the platform by a few supporters who wore green turbans, and another, who wore a red fez, read his paper with expert efficiency... The paper, it must be added, was followed with much more applause than any of its predecessors.”

Dr Walter Walsh, who had organised the conference and who was a famous clergyman said after hearing Huzur [ra]’s address, that the speech had caused him to draw the conclusion that Islam certainly was a living and vibrant religion.

During that tour of 1924 Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] also laid the foundation stone for the first Mosque in the United Kingdom, which was to be called ‘Masjid Fazl’ – ‘the Mosque of Blessings’. This mosque would go on to play a major role in the history of the Jama’at. Following the migration of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV [rh] in 1984 this mosque became the mosque of the Khalifa and so performed a role as the centre of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at.

Despite having very little formal education, Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] was well versed in all matters. His capacity for knowledge was seemingly limitless.The root of all his knowledge was his utter love for the Holy Qur’an. His knowledge of each and every verse was encyclopaedic and this knowledge he did not keep to himself but constantly endeavoured to spread far and wide. Thus throughout his life he continually delivered sermons and lectures on the Holy Qur’an. His commentaries, Tafsir-e-Saghir and Tafsir-e-Kabir, were a service not just for the Jama’at but a service for all of mankind. Part of the prophecy concerning his birth stated that the Promised Son would be sent as a means to manifest the true status of the Qur’an to others and most certainly he fulfilled that role to the letter. Even his opponents were forced to accept his mastery of the Qur’an. Whilst addressing a crowd of his own supporters one well known opponent and local Muslim leader, Maulawi Zafar Ali Khan said: “Listen carefully, you and your followers will never be able to compete with Mirza Mahmud Ahmad. Mirza Mahmud has the Qur’an and he has got knowledge of it. What have you got?”1 Academics and media outlets also felt compelled to praise Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] commentaries. One Dutch Newspaper ‘Dewaagsohel’ wrote that in the introduction given

by Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] to the Holy Qur’an he had presented the teachings of the Qur’an as ‘superior to the teachings of the Bible and Vedas’.

The love Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] had for the Holy Qur’an was not only manifest in his speeches or written works. Indeed it was displayed at all times both in his public and private life.

One of his nephews and son-in-law, the late Sahibzada M.M. Ahmad narrated an incident from his own childhood, when he said that Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] had said to him and other children who were gathered that: “The Holy Qur’an is like an ocean of wisdom. You should inculcate the habit to read it seriously, ponder over its meanings and come out with gems of wisdom.”

Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] love for the Holy Qur’an was mirrored by his love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad [saw]. Any abuse or mocking of the Prophet [saw] caused him unparalleled grief. He felt particular anguish that the majority of non-Ahmadi Muslims claimed that by believing in the Promised Messiah [ra], Ahmadi Muslims had 1

Aik Khaufnak Saazish p.196 by Mazhar Ali Azhar Tariq Magazine September 2010

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Islam Ahmadiyyat somehow insulted the Holy Prophet [saw]. In a book he wrote during the first year of his Khilafat entitled ‘Haqeeqattul-Nabuwwat’ he spoke of this distress. He said: “Ignorant men blame us that by believing in the Promised Messiah [ra] as a Prophet we insulted the Holy Prophet of Islam [saw].

What do they know about the state of one’s heart? How could they fathom the great love, deep affection and high reverence we have for the Holy Prophet [saw]?

And what do they understand, how the love for the Holy Prophet [saw] penetrated my heart. He is my life, my heart, my desire.

In his slavery is my honour and his shoe-bearing, is more valuable to me than the Imperial Throne. The control of Seven Continents is nothing in comparison to the honour of sweeping his home. He is the beloved of the Lord.”

Despite the many clear signs that he was the Musleh Maud, Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra] repeatedly refused to make the claim of Musleh Maud until he was directed by God Almighty. Members of the Jama’at were keen for him to confirm himself, as it seemed clear that he was the fulfilment of the grand prophecy. Yet showing once again that he had no ego or self-ambition he chose not to make any announcement until in 1944 he was informed by God Almighty that he was the true fulfilment of the prophecy and that he should inform the world. Thus Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] travelled to Hoshiarpur where the Promised Messiah [ra] had received the glad tidings of his birth and proclaimed in public that he was the fulfilment of that prophecy. Thereafter he travelled to other parts of India and publicly proclaimed his status. By doing so he was not in any way trying to exaggerate or highlight his own status but was merely highlighting the truth of the Promised Messiah [ra] and the Majesty of God Almighty. Later that year at Jalsa Salana Qadian he elaborated on this point. He said: “Please do remember that I am not laying claim to any nobility for myself. I am only a Sign of the Transcendent Power of God the Exalted; and for the purpose of establishing the grandeur of the Holy Prophet Muhammad [saw] God the Exalted has designated me as the instrument. My claim neither extends beyond this, nor would I be glad to be associated with any other claim.”2 This article has focused very much on the public aspect of Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] life. However it should never be ignored that despite his vast responsibilities he never once neglected his personal responsibilities. To give but one example, Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] was greatly loved by his mother, Hadhrat Amma Jaan [ra]. This love was wholly reciprocal. After the demise of the Promised Messiah [ra], Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] took full responsibility for the care of his beloved mother. He catered for her every need and even though he was so busy he made it part of his routine that every evening he would go and spend some time with his mother, normally after the Maghrib prayer. And when he was away on travel he would normally take her with him.

Through God’s Grace Hadhrat Amma Jaan [ra] lived a long 2 pp. 66-68 of the speech by Hadhrat Al Musleh alMau’ood, delivered on 28 December, 1944 at Qadian

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and blessed life. When she passed away on 20th April 1952 it was the desire of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] for her to be buried in Qadian next to the Promised Messiah [ra], however conditions were difficult as the wounds of Partition were still raw. Nevertheless Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] instructed the Jama’at to make efforts for the repatriation of her body back to Qadian. Contact was duly made with the Indian High Commission and they agreed to treat this as a special case and stated that the body of Hadhrat Amma Jaan [ra] could be taken back to Qadian and escorted by up to twenty Ahmadis.

When this news was given to Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] he immediately refused the offer and said that the status of Hadhrat Amma Jaan [ra] was such that a minimum of 10,000 Ahmadis were needed to escort her body back to Qadian and thus he could not accept such an offer. This showed not only the love but also deep respect that Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] had for his beloved mother.

Only a glimpse has been given about the life of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra], indeed so many achievements have not even been mentioned. His services to the Muslim Ummah for example through the foundation and subsequent Presidency of the All India Kashmir Committee in 1931 which was set up to safeguard the basic human rights of Muslims in Kashmir who faced persecution. Indeed even organisations that were opposed to the Jama’at could not help but be impressed by his service. Regarding his role in Kashmir the newspaper ‘Siasat’ wrote: “At the time when the condition of Kashmir was critical, those who chose Hadhrat Mirza Sahib despite doctrinal differences made a perfect choice. Had they not chosen Mirza Sahib this movement would have ended in utter failure and would have resulted in a major loss for the Muslim Ummah.”3 Then Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] service to Pakistan itself, for it was he who sent messages to Muhammad Ali Jinnah to return from London and to strive for the creation of an independent Muslim State. It is a tragedy of epic proportions that in Pakistan the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at has a long history of being subject to the utmost cruelty and hatred. The vast majority of the public are not aware that if it were not for the efforts of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] then Pakistan might never have been created and thus Muslims would have continued to live in oppression in an all-inclusive Indian State.

During such periods of crisis Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] often did not sleep for nights on end, he would devote himself to his work and to his prayers for the sake of the nation.

This article is ended with an acknowledgement that the grand prophecy of the Promised Messiah [ra] relating to the birth of a Promised Son was fulfilled to the ultimate degree by Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra]. Every single quality that was stipulated was fulfilled to the letter, indeed many of the qualities were fulfilled in many different guises. For example one quality mentioned in the prophecy was that the Promised Son would convert ‘three into four’. At the time the Promised Messiah [ra] said that the meaning of this was not clear. Yet as time passed this particular part of the prophecy was fulfilled in more than one way. One interpretation is that with the advent of the Promised Messiah the number of Is3

Tehrik-e-Ahmadiyyat p.113, May 18, 1933

Islam Ahmadiyyat

Hadhrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad [ra] Khalifatul Masih II

lamic sacred places had become three in number – that is Makkah, Madinah and Qadian. Yet during the Khilafat of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] he built a new town in the newly created Pakistan, called Rabwah and this too became a sacred Islamic town and thus three had converted into four. Another interpretation is that whilst the three sons of the Promised Messiah [ra] from his second marriage had all taken the oath of allegiance to the Promised Messiah [ra], one son of his from his first marriage, Mirza Sultan Ahmad did not accept him. Yet towards the end of his life he did take the pledge of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] and so the three brothers had been converted into four. This is just one example of how the prophesied qualities about the Promised Son were in fact manifest again and again in Hadhrat Musleh Maud’s [ra] personality.

One day in March 1954 Hadhrat

Musleh Maud [ra] was attacked during the Asr prayer at the Mubarak Mosque.

A non-Ahmadi had managed to take his stand in the front line of worshippers and during the prayer he suddenly advanced towards Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] and drove the blade of a long sharp knife into his neck with murderous intent. Although through God’s Grace Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] survived, this incident caused serious injury to him, and indeed his health was never the same again. Thereafter his physical condition continued to deteriorate over a number of years. This period of decline ended on 8th November 1965 when he breathed his last. To Allah we belong and to Him we return. His death caused shockwaves throughout the Jama’at.

Many Ahmadis could never remember a time when he was not there to lead them. Every member of the Jama’at was consumed in grief, indeed many nonAhmadis also felt compelled to express

their sorrow. Through Allah’s Grace the Jama’at recovered from this devastation following the election of the Third Successor to the Promised Messiah [ra], Hadhrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad Sahib [rh]. The Jama’at would by the Grace of God continue to go from strength to strength.

The death of Hadhrat Musleh Maud [ra] meant that the world had lost one of its greatest servants. Yet amongst the grief there remained a spirit of gratitude to God Almighty for blessing the Jama’at with a person who had fulfilled all his responsibilities in such a glorious manner. Truly he was the Promised Reformer both in spirit and deed. Truly he was an embodiment of Allah’s Help for the mission of the Promised Messiah [ra] .

May Allah bless him eternally.

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[ameen]

Islam Ahmadiyyat

Biography of some of the Martyrs of 28 May 2010 Summary of Friday Sermon delivered June 11th, 2010

In the Friday sermon today, Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih V [atba] mentioned some of the martyrs who were mercilessly attacked during the massacre in Lahore two weeks ago.

Huzur [atba] said these are those Ahmadi Muslims who were absolutely fearless even in the face of death, who did not beg for life before the assailants, instead remained occupied in the remembrance of Allah and tried to help others and save the life of others. They did not panic but supplicated before God and tried to overpower the attackers, if they could. Some of these believers were granted the status of martyrdom, which is eternal life, and their names shall shine bright like stars in the heavens in the annals of Ahmadiyyat [insh]. May Allah Almighty elevate their status in Paradise, [ameen].

Before mentioning the martyrs, Huzur [atba] directed the attention of all Jama’at members towards Syedna Bilal Fund. He reminded us that this fund exists since 1986, and was launched by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV [rh] to collect funds for the assistance of the families of martyrs. Huzur [atba] said that through this scheme, the Jama’at has been providing assistance, but it is the responsibility of Jama’at Ahmadiyya to provide any type of assistance to the families regardless of whether funds are available through Syedna Bilal Fund or not.

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Huzur [atba] then started with brief biography about some of the martyrs.

1. Munir Ahmad Shaikh Sahib, Ameer Jama’at District Lahore, martyred in Dar-ul-zikr. His father, Shaikh Taj Din Sahib, was a station master and he performed Bai’at in 1927. He (father) was a friend of Mufti Malik Saif–ur–Rehman Sahib, who were both bitter opponents of the Jama’at. When they read a book written by the Promised Messiah [as], they were impressed by the love expressed towards the Holy Prophet [saw] and after reading a few books, thus accepted Ahmadiyyat. Munir Ahmad Shaikh Sahib received his degree in LLB and was posted as a judge in different locations. In Lahore, he was posted as a special anti-corruption judge; then special judge in customs and was working for NAB when he was retired in 2000. He was famous for being a just man, and he was fearless. In Rawalpindi, he was appointed as judge to decide between two parties, where one party consisted of a group of women belonging to the Lahori Ahmadi Jama’at being represented by Mujeeb–ur–Rehman Sahib, and other party consisted of a maulvi. Munir Ahmad Shaikh Sahib told both parties that he was an Ahmadi Muslim. The maulvi did not seem to have any issues with him being an Ahmadi. In fact, it was Mujeeb–ur–Rehman Sahib who was apprehensive that

Islam Ahmadiyyat Judge Sahib may decide against his client in his keenness to express his justice. Munir Ahmad Shaikh Sahib was a brave man, kind–hearted towards everyone and had great knowledge.

He led a simple life. He served the Jama’at in various capacities (he was Director of Fazl–e–Umar foundation, and Sadr of Model town/Garden Town areas, etc.). He always looked after his family to the best of his abilities. He would say that he was born in the household of a poor station master, but he looks after his own family because his children know that their father is a session judge. He was a moosi. Just one day prior to his martyrdom, his sister gave a talk to Lajna about how the system of Wasiyyat is a means to attain Paradise, and when she came home, she asked Shaikh Sahib if what she had said was correct.

In response, Shaikh Sahib that although this is correct, but the true guarantee to attain paradise is through martyrdom. Shaikh Sahib called from the mosque before his martyrdom, and told his wife that he had incurred injury to his head and leg, but said that he was fine. When he was directed to go towards the basement, he refused. When the assailants started firing, he requested all members to stay seated and recite durood. He borrowed a mobile phone from a Khaddim and called the police, requesting their presence. The police said that they had already arrived at the premises, to which Shaikh Sahib responded angrily that they better get inside. According to an eyewitness (the Khaddim whose mobile phone he had borrowed), the last words he heard being uttered by Shaikh Sahib was the proclamation of the Kalima. His wife said that before leaving for Jumma, he gave her the amount owed for chanda, and he had never done so before. He also told her about a case, the date of which was postponed, and entrusted her with some money to put in the case file. His wife says that prior to this, he had never discussed any case matters with her. He had expressed his desire to Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV [rh] that he would like to dedicate his life to the service of Jama’at. Khalifatul Masih IV [rh] suggested that he should continue to work where he was as this was an effective way of doing Tabligh (propagation of Islam Ahmadiyyat). One of his sons suggested hiring a security guard, to which he said that what will that serve? If I get hit by a bullet, I will be among the martyrs. Mubashar Majeed Sahib, a Murabi silsila, writes about him that in 1997–1998, when he was in Gulberg, that he received a phone call from the district Murabi who said that a scholar had requested a meeting with both of them. This scholarly man was an opponent of Jama’at, who had been implicated in an erroneous case by the customs. His complaint was that the judge appointed over the trial was a strange man who puts his fist down forcefully and announces before each session that he is an Ahmadi, and to start the proceedings. The man was fearful that the judge’s declaration of being an Ahmadi meant that the decision would be pronounced against him. The Murabi Sahib reassured this man that the reason why the judge did so was not because of any other reason, but to let everyone know that since he was an Ahmadi, he does not mean to intimidate you, he means to say that he will not accept any bribe nor entertain any intercession on behalf of anyone, and that he is not afraid of anyone except Allah. He also consoled this man that if he was innocent, the judge would serve a fair sentence. After a few months, the PA of that man called to thank the Murabi Sahib as he had been acquitted, who said that there was no need to thank him; instead he should thank the Imam Mahdi of the latter days [as] who has founded a Jama’at of members who are absolutely just in their dealings regardless of their beliefs, etc. He was a coura-

geous man indeed.

Last year, when he was appointed Ameer, district Lahore, I wrote a letter to him suggesting that he was entitled direct access to Khalifatul Masih for consultation in any matter and maintain contact. Taking benefit of this facility, he called Huzur [atba] for guidance and instructions, although everything was going well. He was a man who consulted everyone in his proceedings and was a highly skilled man. Sadr Lajna Imaillah, after working under his directives, said that he fulfilled his responsibilities to the best of his capabilities. He was a man who possessed many qualities. May Allah Almighty elevate his status in Paradise and rank him amongst His beloved, Ameen.

2. Major General Retired Nasir Chaudhry Sahib, son of Chaudhry Safdar Ali Sahib, resident of district Sialkot. His father was an inspector and was martyred while on duty, when his son was only ten years of old. His paternal grandmother was a foster mother of Chaudhry Zafrullah Khan Sahib. In 1945, during World War II, he was posted in the Frontier Force in Burma. In 1943, Syed Sarwar Shah Sahib performed his nikkah, which was attended by Sahibzada Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib [ra] and Sahibzada Mirza Sharif Ahmad Sahib [ra]. In 1971, during his command of division in Rajasthan, he suffered a bullet wound in his knee, which remained in his body. The doctors said that if he walks again, it would be a miracle. He was a strong–willed man, who continued to perform certain exercises, and his leg recovered such that he was able to walk again. He was assigned a servant for his services in the army. For 20 years, he served as secretary Islaah–o–Irshaad (propagation), and from 1987 to the day he was martyred, he served as Sadr of Model Town area. He was 91 years old. His wife says that he was a sincere man, who had a kind heart, and dearly loved the establishment of Khilafat, a righteous man, regular in offering Namaaz. Once when he did not have a driver, his wife suggested that he should request for one from his platoon, but he said that God had provided abundantly for him and that he would arrange for a driver himself. He joined the system of Wasiyyat in 1943. Naib Ameer District Lahore, Retired Major Lateef Ahmad Sahib would joke with him saying that even a General is working for me, to which General Sahib would respond that my job is to obey; in the work of Jama’at, worldly ranks play no role. In Masjid Noor, he would generally sit on the chairs outside the Masjid. When the assailants started firing, one of the Jama’at members requested him to go inside the mosque, and he said that let others reach safety first, and he himself went in last and sat inside. People started going into the basement, but he remained seated. A grenade exploded near his feet, but a bullet from one of the assailants entered his neck, and he was martyred in the state of prostration on the chair. He served the Jama’at with great humility and loyalty. During his years of service in the army, he could have been granted the status of martyrdom, but instead, Allah Almighty bestowed on him this grand status as a servant of the Messiah [as] and during worship. May Allah Almighty grant him a lofty station in Paradise.

3. Aslam Bharwana Sahib, son of Respected Raja Khan Bharwana Sahib, who accepted Bai’at during the Khilafat of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih II [ra], was a resident of Jhang.

Aslam Bharwana Sahib received his degree in Mechanical Tariq Magazine September 2010

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Islam Ahmadiyyat Engineering from Taxila University and since 1981, was employed with the Pakistan Railway. He was a devoted member of Majlis Ansarullah. On Fridays, he would generally make the announcements before the sermon. On the day of the incident also, he had just finished making the announcements in Bait-ul Zikr. He was 59 years old. He was Chief Engineer in Pakistan Railway. He was expecting another raise in ranking at his employment, but Allah Almighty has bestowed on him such a high rank of martyrdom in face of which no worldly ranks has any value. A Khaddim on duty said that he refused to go to the basement and requested others to proceed towards a safe location. He went outside to find out about the safety of others, but when he opened the door to step outside, the assailant fired at him. He served Jama’at in various capacities with extreme dedication. He was a brave and courageous man.

At an event in Quetta, he was given a seat in the front row.

At that time of intense opposition towards Ahmadis, he was wearing a badge with the Kalima written on it. The Governor requested him to either take the badge off, or sit in the back rows. He was resolute that he would do neither but if the Governor wanted, he could send him home. He was a helpful man dedicated to the service of mankind. He was highly devoted to the establishment of Khilafat. He had dedicated his life to the service of Jama’at after retirement and was very happy to do so. He would look after his health in order to better serve the Jama’at. He was an honest man and earned respect due to this quality among others. He would make arrangements to offer Namaaz in congregation. During his education, he received Jama’at sponsored scholarships as an orphan; therefore he donated regularly to schemes that care for the orphans. He participated in financial sacrifice schemes regularly. One of his close relatives had a dream a few days before the incident in which she heard “Be prepared to choose the martyrs”. He held Jama’at officers in high esteem and was a humble man. May Allah Almighty grant him a lofty station in Paradise, Ameen.

4. Ashraf Bilal Sahib, son of Abdul Lateef Sahib. Maternal Grandfather Khuda Bakhsh Sahib accepted Bai’at at the hands of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih II [ra]. Most of his extended family were non-Ahmadis. He was a citizen of England and was on a visit to Pakistan. He was 56 years of age. He would always participate in financial schemes with great zeal. He was an Engineer by profession and owned his own workshop. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr and he was a Moosi. He was serving as secretary Tehrik-e-Jadid. A bullet pierced through his left shoulder and exited through his heart. He firmly put his hand to his body and called his driver, telling him he was wounded but not to tell anyone else. Another bullet pierced through his neck. A young boy who lived with him since his childhood, by the name of Nisar Ahmad, held him when he fell over. Nisar Sahib tried to listen to his heartbeat by pulling the wounded Bilal Sahib close to him, when the assailant opened fire again and martyred Nisar Ahmad also, maintaining all his loyalties to this family. Ashraf Bilal Sahib always remained occupied in zikr-e-ilahi and istighfar and would cry during Namaaz, and when his wife would ask why he cried so much, his answer was that these were tears of gratitude to Allah Almighty Who had blessed him with so much despite his weaknesses. He participated with great enthusiasm in financial sacrifices and humanitarian services. He would spend hundreds of thousands in way of serving other human beings. He was also running a free dispensary. He was also providing for the monthly expenses of many households. Whosoever would come to him

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for financial assistance, he would provide for him and would ask him to always come to him for assistance in the future. His wife had noticed a difference in his attitude since the past two months, such that he was trying to tie up loose ends and finish some projects at a great pace. He also gave instructions to his wife regarding certain projects to which his wife said that she would not be able to accomplish these tasks, but he insisted and encouraged her. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

5. Captain Retired Mirza Naeemuddin Sahib son of Mirza Siraj Din Sahib. He was a resident of Fatehpur District Gujrat.

He was 56 years of age and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He would usually go for lunch on Fridays to his daughter’s place.

He called home at about 2pm while he was wounded and instructed his daughter to look after her mother. When the wife was handed the phone, the wounded Naeemuddin Sahib asked her if she was alright, and she said yes. Then he said “Khuda Hafiz” (May God protect you). He inquired about the safety of his son Amir. He also gave some tips to two other men on how to protect themselves, due to which they remained safe and protected. He was martyred near the mihrab resting against the wall, suffering a bullet wound in his stomach. His son Amir Naeem has also been wounded during these attacks. May Allah Almighty bless him with complete health, Ameen. His wife says that their married life was an ideal one. God blessed them with five daughters, and at the birth of every daughter, he would say that a blessing has arrived. [This is a lesson for those who trouble their wives over the birth of daughters and Huzur [atba] receives quite a few complaints about this.] At the birth of each of their daughter, he was promoted, and thus gradually became a captain. He earned the respect of others due to his honesty and integrity and he was a very brave and courageous man. He participated in the 1971 war, and the Kargil confrontation. He had an intense desire for martyrdom. Allah Almighty granted him his wish and bestowed martyrdom to him while he was in worship.

6. Kamran Rasheed son of Mohammad Arshad Qamar Sahib.

His paternal grandfather Hafiz Mohammad Abdullah Sahib was the first to enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat in his family, when he performed Bai’at in 1918. He migrated during partition from district Jalandhar. Kamran Sahib was 38 years of age and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He had earned a bachelor’s degree in arts, and was working in the field of composing, and he was an active member of Khuddamul Ahmadiyya.

He was currently serving as Secretary Talim (MKA), and was also working for MTA, and prior to this, he also served in the Books department at Dar-ul-Zikr. He was a Moosi. At the time of the attacks, he courageously went out to do some recording for MTA but was martyred by the bullets fired by the assailants. His wife said he was a very patient man; was always watchful about the offering of Namaaz by the kids, and was occupied with some projects at Dar-ul-Zikr. Contrary to the norms, four or five days before his martyrdom, he became very sober and silent and would not leave the house without reciting the Holy Qur’an. Huzur [atba] narrated some dreams indicating a special event in the family, which now points to this incident of martyrdom. Kamran Sahib’s maternal uncle, Muzaffar Ahmad, was also martyred during these attacks. May Allah Almighty elevate their station in Paradise, Ameen.

7. Ejaz Ahmad Baig Sahib son of Muhammad Anwar Baig.

Islam Ahmadiyyat His family was from a village near Qadian, and on his mother’s side, he was related to Mohammadi Begum. He was 39 years of age and martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. His wife said that he had a urine infection and was ill for two years. This was the first time he had gone for Jumma prayers after two months and made special arrangements to attend. His wife made a special note that he looked much healthier on that day. He was a simple man with complete faith in God. He was patient man and was never affected by the negative attitude of other people. He was employed as private driver to Gen. Nasir Sahib Shaheed. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

occasions to serve the Jama’at and was a devoted Ahmadi. He was martyred while giving eyewitness accounts on the phone.

He was planning to move back to his village and hence this was probably his last Jumma in Dar-ul-Zikr and had requested to perform the duty he was charged with. Allah Almighty granted him a lofty status of martyrdom. He would remain in the masjid till late at night after work. His wife had a dream in which she saw Sajjad Sahib wounded and bleeding from his stomach. Indeed, Sajjad Sahib incurred bullet wounds in his stomach. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

8. Mirza Akram Baig Sahib son of Mirza Munawwar Baig Sahib. His paternal grandfather was Mirza Umar Baig Sahib, who accepted Bai’at at the hands of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih II [ra]. At the time of partition, they migrated from Qadian.

His paternal uncle was martyred in Wah Cantt in 1974-75.

Akram Baig Sahib was 58 years of age and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He was a member of Majlis Ansarullah. He was martyred when he received fatal wounds from shrapnel of grenade. He called his son and told him that he was wounded and that he should pray for him. He was a righteous and pious man, very courageous, performed aitekaaf every year, disciplined and punctual, respected his elders and loved children. He had the intense desire to attain a special communion with God in his worship, which he felt was still lacking. He also had a dream recently indicating that his life would come to an end soon. He expressed desire of becoming a martyr at several occasions. He also saw the Promised Messiah [as] in one of his dreams, and also had the opportunity to visit the Ka’aba in another dream.

He also dreamt that he was eating white rice, which is interpreted as fulfilment of a wish or attaining a high status. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

12. Masood Ahmad Akhtar Bajwa Sahib son of Muhammad Hayat Bajwa Sahib. His father entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat and belonged to district Bahawalnagar. He received his education from Bahawalnagar and was employed with Wapda from where he retired. He was an active member of Majlis Ansarullah. He was 72 years of age, was a moosi and was martyred in Darul-zikr. His son Dr. Hamid Sahib said that due to lack of funds he could not apply for his Green Card in the US, but his father sent him $1,000 and instructed him to apply for the Green Card right away, which he did and received his Green Card within 25 days (normally it takes about 6 months).

Due to this, he was able to attend his father’s funeral. Before he was martyred, while he was bleeding from his wounds, he cared for other wounded, and protected a young man till the last breath. He remained occupied in zikr-e-ilahi and encouraged others to do the same. His wife said that he would greet everyone with warmth and encourage his neighbours to attend jumma prayers. He was a sympathetic man with a good sense of humour. It was his last wish that his son would become a Murabi who is a student in the Jamia. He was a simple man who always loved to invite and have the company of the elders of the Jama’at. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, and accept his prayers and good wishes in favour of his children, Ameen.

9. Munawar Ahmad Khan Sahib son of Mohammad Ayub Sahib, resident of Dairiyaan, Narowal district. He owned a business of carpets. He was 61 years of age and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He would participate in financial schemes with great enthusiasm and was very regular in paying his chanda.

He was buried in Lahore. He would encourage his children to participate in Tarbiyyati classes. He was a pious and righteous man with a special relationship with God Almighty. Prior to this, when the situation got worse, he instructed his wife that she should preserve the love for Khilafat in their children. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise and accept his prayers and desires for his children, Ameen.

10. Irfan Ahmad Nasir Sahib son of Abdul Maalik Sahib. His paternal grandfather had performed Bai’at in 1938. He was a resident of district Narowal. He was 31 years of age and was an active member of the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. His brother said that usually he would be assigned the duty of traffic control, therefore, he was probably one of the first among the martyrs. He was a moosi.

He was an obedient man and never said no to any tasks assigned. He was always ready to serve.

11. Sajjad Bharwana Sahib, son of Allah Yaar Bharwana Sahib. He was a resident of Jhang and was working as a contract clerk in the Railway. He was 30 years of age. He was an active member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr and was a moosi. He would always look for

13. Asif Farooq Sahib son of Liaquat Ali Sahib. His father performed Bai’at in 1995 without asking any questions and was a pious natured man. He was 30 years of age. He had a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. He was an active member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and an active participant of MTA Lahore. He was also serving in the A/V department. He was a moosi. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr.

On the fateful day, he wanted to make some video recording of the event for MTA and received a fatal bullet. For the last three years, he lived in Dar-ul-Zikr and worked from there.

One day prior to his martyrdom, he took leave from his job and came home for Jumaa prayers. He said that I have finished all my pending jobs and returned home. He would often say that his life and death is in Dar-ul-Zikr. His parents and family members said that his martyrdom was a great reward for us.

May Allah Almighty confer upon the Jama’at many blessings in lieu of these sacrifices, Ameen. He was a sympathetic and pious man. He only had three places where he could be found at: home, work or dar-ul-zikr. He would never get angry. Once, when his mother asked him why he never felt angry, he said that a worker like me never gets angry. His father dreamt a few years ago that he had incurred a bullet wound in his heart, which he had interpreted that he would die of a bullet wound to his heart, but when his son was martyred, he realised that the dream was to be interpreted for his son. On 5th June, his Tariq Magazine September 2010

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Islam Ahmadiyyat wife was blessed with the birth of his second son. May Allah Almighty grant them with righteous and pious progeny, Ameen.

14. Shaikh Shamim Ahmad Sahib son of Shaikh Naeem Ahmad Sahib. His forefathers were among the companions of the Promised Messiah [as]. He was 38 years of age and was the only son of his parents. He was the only custodian of the household. He was employed at the Bank Al Falah. He was an active member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and was serving as an auditor. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He was always ready to make financial sacrifice. He was a man of pious virtues and was an affectionate and loving man. He carried out his duties with great wisdom. He was always smiling and made others smile. He served his parents with great responsibility.

On the fateful day, he called his cousin to inform him of the attacks. He guarded in front of Ameer Sahib to protect him and came under the line of fire at the hands of the cruel assailants.

His mother says that her son was a very endearing son and looked after her every need. He possessed many virtues and cared for everyone. His wife said that her husband was a result of many prayers and financial sacrifices. As a result of a dream in which he saw Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih IV [rh] asking him to give all his children to him, he dedicated all his children in the Waqf-e-Nau scheme. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

15. Mohammad Shahid Sahib son of Mohammad Shafi Sahib. His grandfather accepted Ahmadiyyat in 1935 and was a resident of Kotli. He was 28 years of age at the time of martyrdom. He was an active member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. At the jumma, he was assigned the duty next to the mihrab near Ameer Sahib.

He called his father and friends and said to them that he would try to capture the terrorists and instructed them not to tell his mother as she would get worried. His face had incurred nail scratches indicating a combat before his martyrdom. Just a few days before his martyrdom, he asked his friends to clear any debts if he owed any. He had quit smoking a few months ago.

He was regular in offering Namaaz, and used to give sadqa before every jumma. After the attacks, a receipt of that day of 50 rupees was found in his pocket. The watchman said that he would always greet him with courtesy. Both brothers worked at a shop together. On the day of the attacks, the younger brother expressed his desire to attend jumma, but Shahid Sahib said that he would like to attend the jumma on that day and his brother can go the next week. He was still single, and insisted that his younger sister would get married first. May Allah Almighty wrap him in the shroud of His Mercy and forgiveness, Ameen.

16. Prof. Abdul Wudood Sahib son of Abdul Majeed Sahib, was a grandson of a companion of the Promised Messiah [as].

He was a Professor of English at a Government College in Lahore and also had an LLB degree. He was an active member of Jama’at and was a moosi. Due to his dedicated efforts, a grand Ijtema was held in his halqa at the occasion of Khilafat Jubilee.

He was a patient and humble man. He was also a prisoner in the way of Allah. He was 55 years of age. He served the Jama’at in various capacities. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He incurred a bullet as he was walking towards the Murabi house.

He was soft-hearted man, and never spoke harshly to his wife

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during his marriage of 35 years to her. He was strict with his children only in two matters: one of Namaaz and the other of attending the Qur’an class. He would hold dars-e-hadith in the house. He was the anchor of the house and maintained unity among the brothers and gave counsel whenever needed.

He was always ready to serve the Jama’at. He also helped his brothers financially. May Allah Almighty continue to shower His mercy on him, Ameen.

17. Waleed Ahmad Sahib son of Chaudhry Munawar Ahmad Sahib. His paternal grandfather was martyred in Mehrabpur and his maternal grandfather was martyred in Nawab Shah also. His father is an active member of Jama’at in Rabwah.

At the time of his martyrdom, Waleed was 17 years and six months of age and was a student at Medical College. He was in the Waqf-e-Nau scheme and a moosi also. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr and is the youngest among the martyrs of 28 May. He was the first to arrive at the Jumma prayers on that day and when contacted on the phone, he said that he was wounded in the leg and could see numerous bodies lying before him. He requested for prayers. During his last visit to Rabwah, he went to see each of his friends and said that he would like to meet them; who knows if we get to meet next as I may be martyred.

He was regular in the five daily prayers, he was a cultured man, intelligent and obedient who would be the first to greet others.

When he was eleven years of age, he said that he would become a martyr like his grandfather when he would grow up. He was popular in his institute, so much so that after his martyrdom, his fellow classmates held three memorial services in which the larger part of those who attended were non-Ahmadis. His teacher expressed that they were planning to attend his funeral in Rabwah but postponed their plan to attend for fear that they might not be able to bear the sight of the deceased. May Allah Almighty accept this sacrifice and in return bless the Jama’at with thousands of Waleed, Ameen.

18. Mohammad Anwar Sahib son of Muhammad Khan Sahib of Sheikhupura. He performed bai’at at the hands of Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih III [rh]. At an early age, he joined the army. He was retired about ten years ago, and then dedicated his services as security guard at Bait-ul-Noor Mosque, which he performed till his martyrdom. He was 45 years of age, was a moosi, and was martyred in Model Town. His son is also critically wounded and in the hospital. He was performing his duty at the gate when he noticed one of the terrorist as a suspicious man and soon enough, his suspicions proved to be true. He defended the gate, but was fired by one of the assailants and martyred. He was greatly dedicated to serving the Jama’at. He would clean the toilets and keep the Masjid clean. When the Masjid was under construction, he would give duties around the clock. He would serve his parents. He was not regular in offering Tahajjud, but for the past month, he would never miss the Tahajjud prayer either. The first thing he would inquire from his children was whether they had offered Namaaz and recited the Qur’an. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen.

19. Ansar-ul-Haq Sahib son of Anwar-ul-Haq Sahib. He was resident of Faizullah near Qadian. He was 63 years of age, and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr. He left the house at 8:30 in the morning dressed in a new suit to run an errand and went to the jumma prayer, which he made a point to always attend. He was

Islam Ahmadiyyat sitting in the front chair, where he incurred wounds from a grenade, and received five bullets. He was taken to the Mayo hospital where he was martyred. According to his daughter-in-law, he was a humble man who deserved the status of martyrdom.

He was a peace-loving man and always took the first step in promoting reconciliation. He received a nominal pension and helped others with it. He was extremely devoted to the Nizame-Khilafat and served his parents, and got an early retirement to serve them. In order to create harmony in the family, he would sometimes force his family members to apologise even if they were not at fault. Some time before his martyrdom, he wrote a 5-page letter to his family giving certain instructions on how to maintain unity among the family. He also expressed his regret to his children that he made them apologise even when they were not at fault. People who came to give their condolences at his martyrdom also said that he helped them financially and with groceries. May Allah Almighty enable their children to continue his virtuous deeds, Ameen.

20. Nasir Mahmood Khan Sahib son of Arif Naseem Sahib, accepted bai’at in 1958 and moved to Raiwind. He was an active member of the Jama’at, and so are his parents. He was a moosi, and was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr, when he was 39 years of age. His brother says that when he spoke to him on the phone, he said he was near the staircase and was safe. When one of the assailants threw a grenade towards him, he caught it with his hands and protected the lives of many others by giving up his own. He was an expert in making contact and networking. When he purchased a car, on the occasion of Eid, etc., he would give a ride to others before taking his own family members to the Masjid. May Allah Almighty bestow on the Jama’at the rewards in exchange of these sacrifices, Ameen.

koor Sahib, was the great grandson of a companion of the Promised Messiah [as]. He was a moosi and was 43 years of age. He was martyred in Dar-ul-Zikr, even though he would attend the jumma in the Model Town Masjid on a regular basis.

On this particular day, he left for Dar-ul-Zikr from his office.

He called his maternal uncle and requested for prayer. His wife called him to say not to go to the Masjid but found out that he was already there. He also called a friend who was in the army to request for help since the police was not helping them. He helped others till his last breath. He tried to capture one of the attackers, but the other fired at him. He could have saved his life but prevented the attacker from killing many others. He had a great passion of serving mankind, he would always help others despite his own troubles. His wife says about him that he was so caring and loving that she never felt the need of any other friend. He would always lend a hand in the house, even washed the dishes. He was a simple man, would conceal his virtuous acts, would remain occupied in istighfar and durood, was kind-hearted and served humanity. He served his parents and loved children. In every capacity, he was a great human being. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, and grant patience to the family members of the martyrs. May Allah Almighty keep every Ahmadi in His protection, Ameen.

21. Umair Ahmad Malik Sahib son of Abdur Rahim Sahib, Hafiz Nabi Bakhsh was his grandfather, companion of the Promised Messiah [as] who was a teacher and belonged to a town called Faizullah near Qadian. He was an active member of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and was an auditor of AACP and served the Jama’at in various capacities. His mother is also an active Lajna worker. He was 36 years of age, and was a moosi. He suffered bullet wounds in Model Town Masjid but breathed his last in Jinnah Hospital and was martyred.

He wore a white new dress before going to Jumma, and sat in the front row of the Masjid. He suffered a bullet wound and remained lying on the floor and was on the phone with his father and asked him for his forgiveness and said “I am leaving now, Khuda Hafiz”. He also inquired about his brother. He was taken to the hospital, where his blood pressure continued to drop. He saw his mother, and asked for water, and bit her finger to let her know that he was alive. He was martyred during surgery due to internal bleeding. He had great contacts, and worked in the construction sector on contract work. He had a great passion for service for mankind. May Allah Almighty elevate his station in Paradise, Ameen. Iqbal Abid Sahib says that he called him from the Masjid and said in a faint voice: “Murabi Sahib, Khuda Hafiz, Khuda Hafiz, Khuda Hafiz” as if to say that although we are leaving, now it falls upon you to carry on the task of spreading the true Islam. May Allah Almighty enable each and every Ahmadi to spread the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat, Ameen.

22. Sardar Iftikhar ul Ghani Sahib son of Sardar Abdus ShaTariq Magazine September 2010

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Islam Ahmadiyyat

A few Questions and Answers about Jesus Christ [as]

By Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV [rh]v Transcribed from Audio Recordings by Al Islam Team

Fatherless Birth of Jesus Christ [as] Questioner: We have learnt from Holy Qur’an that Jesus or Hadhrat Isa [as] was born without the intervention of sex. Could you please tell me if there is any such precedent of this very strange phenomenon in the history of mankind?

Answer: You know, I have carried out some research in that regard – but the problem is that, the problem is in fact manifold. I will explain what are the difficulties in the way of carrying out a genuine meaningful research in this area.

As far as the animal life is concerned – scientists have studied all forms of life and they have come to the conclusion without controversy that such things can happen in animals and also in the botanical forms of life. That mothers can give, I mean, a virgin in animals can give birth to a child without the aid of, I mean, without her mating with the counterpart of the other sex. So this has been explained in different ways. There are hermaphrodites, of course, and there are some other phenomenon known to some but in human beings this cannot be ascertained through experimentation: that is one big obstacle and secondly all the children which have been born in the past, none of such cases was critically examined by scientists. Even if it was their claim that she was chaste and she had not met a person of the opposite sex and the child was a miraculous birth or whatever you call it, that claim was always rejected by the society and to my knowledge no serious attempt was ever made to ascertain the validity of such a claim scientifically.

Again, prior to the last two hundred years science had not yet developed to a degree that such claims could even be put to test even if they decided to do that. They had no means at their disposal to test such a thing. The only one place which comes to my mind which was scientifically challenged and also accepted by the scientists as such was a case in South America which is widely reported in the world and which was particularly reported in the Indonesian press, so I pursued that further and found that the reporting was correct.

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A girl gave birth to a girl and she claimed that she was absolutely chaste and there was no question of her ever meeting any boy.

Now, her mother knew the girl and also knew the history of school going and conduct and behaviour and so on and she was 100% certain that she is right. So this caught the eyes of a journalist and the issue was raised to such loudness that the news reached America and the scientists took interest in this and a team of American experts was sent to that particular country; I don’t remember the name but it is all recorded and they investigated and they found the claim was right and they could also establish how it could happen. Now, they proved that in this case she was the child of her grandfather because in some cases during the embryonic stage the sperm of the father gets involved and trapped in the would be uterus of the child if it is a female and it can be preserved, by nature and after a while when the girl reaches the age of maturity then it fertilizes the ovum and the result is a virgin birth. But during that study the way they understood the problem – they claim that in such cases the issue has to be feminine always, not a male issue, it

Islam Ahmadiyyat has to be a female issue. Now, the way they worked it out, of course I have studied that report, their conclusion was right. If what they considered had happened then the child had to be a girl. So we have reached that close only and we have yet to further explore the possibility scientifically of there being a boy born out of such single parent internal fertilization. As far as the possibilities are concerned, there are possibilities. In animal kingdom it happens and a very well known system exists where non-sexual birth can take place. So, how far it is possible in human beings is still an open issue but many doctors agree, only to the extent that we can’t rule it out as impossible.

So as such we believe the Holy Qur’an has been fully supported in as much the possibilities exist and when they do then the verdict of God is enough for us. That shows that God did not have to break His own Law to create such a miraculous birth. He activated some hidden tiers of laws which are seldom activated but they do sometimes surface here and there and do operate in human experience as well as largely in animal experience. So I think something like that must have happened with Jesus Christ.

Only recently I had studied because I am writing a small booklet on the issue of rationality in Christianity purely from a rational point of view. It’s almost completed. There I have added the opinion of the modern scientists, the latest scientists, in England, on this issue. We talked to some…and they led us to some other books and a small para has been added which is very technical of course, full of medical jargon but you can understand, many other allopath doctors can understand.

What is attempted to be proved is that it cannot be ruled out as impossible.

Extraordinary Birth of Jesus Christ [as]) Question: Why did Hadhrat Isa – Jesus [as] have such an extraordinary birth?

Answer: Well, many reasons have been suggested by Hadhrat Masih-e-Maud [as] – Promised Messiah [as]. One of them was that God wanted him to become a Sign for the House of Abraham through Israel that your end has reached.

No man is holy enough now, in you, to give birth to a Prophet.

So the line has come to an end, and like the railway line which comes to an end, you know, there, you find a sign posted, and something blocks the railway, as a sign that here it comes to an end. So Jesus’ birth, according to Masih-e-Maud [as], was used as an indicator that here the house of Isaac comes to an end, house of Yaqub – Israel – here comes to an end. And the prophecy regarding the progeny of Hadhrat Abraham would now shift to the other son that is Ismail and it is from his progeny that the prophets will begin to appear. Now, this is exactly what happened-exactly. After Jesus, no real Prophet was born in the house of Israel. He is the last of the major Prophets. Small, minor soothsayers and divines of course were born but not worth mentioning. So, as far as the real Prophets of God are concerned, everybody knows, Jesus was the last. So, the Prophets shifted from that house to the house of Ismail and

that’s what we see here that the birth of Hadhrat Muhammad Rasoolullah (saw – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and with that the new line of Abraham’s children was involved in this. O.K.- that is one good answer which is suggested by Hadhrat Masih-e-Maud [as] himself.

Jesus Christ Only Way to God? Question: Islam’s teaching is that Jesus Christ was a Prophet of God and you, as Muslims, believe that Prophets always say the truth, now the question is that Jesus has said, ‘I am the only way to God’ and isn’t it a contradiction when he was a Prophet, and he was saying the truth, and he did not say that other Prophets had been the way, and the bridge, then how can he be the only way?

Answer: You are quite right that Jesus was a Prophet of God and also he was truthful. There is no contradiction in truth.

Nor was there any contradiction in Jesus. But there are contradictions in those who interpret things wrongly. I said, I fully agree that Jesus was a Prophet of God and as such a true person and there is never contradiction in truth. So he could not have contradicted himself or contradicted the truth as such. But there are people who are not true, who distort it, so they interpret truth from me and make it contradictory. This has happened to every other book. Even there are Muslims who are inferring from the Holy Qur’an, from the same verses, two absolutely opposite meanings. That does not show that the Holy Qur’an has any contradiction in itself but people have contradictions in themselves.

So the meaning of this has been totally misunderstood by the present day Christians, as I understand. We believe, and we can prove, that everywhere, when a Prophet of God came with a message, he said the same thing, to the people whom he was addressing; at that time he was the only way, to those people he was the only way; but his address was not enlarged beyond its scope.

The Prophet of China addressed the Chinese people in certain times telling them he was the way, Confucius. Tao, means the right way, the true way. So Tao also was the way and the Holy Qur’an speaks of the siratul mustaqeem, the straight path, and then the Holy Prophet is mentioned as a bridge between the mankind and God, waseelah.

So every Prophet says the same thing. There is no contradiction.

But the message will be applicable according to the size of the people the Prophet is addressing and according to the time frame in which he is speaking.

Tariq Magazine September 2010

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4 News & Events 19th National MKA Hike to Great Gable, Western Lakes (April 2010) Dr Aziz Ahmad Hafiz

[alhamd]

faith-inspiring Dars.

This time the ascent was of Great Gable standing at 2620 feet in height

All enjoyed a tasty breakfast prepared by the very well disciplined Baitul Futuh team at 7.30am and at 8.30am everyone set off for the start point of the Hike at Wasdale Head. The hike started with the group being split into two one led by Zubair Hayat Sahib and the other led by Qaseem Hayat Sahib. At 10.30am the hike started with silent prayer.

the 19th National MKA UK Hike since the start of the Hiking Club over five years ago took place on the weekend of 17th/18th April 2010.

A total of 48 participants took part with the bulk coming from Worcester Park and Baitul Futuh Regions. Other regions included East, South, North West, North East and Greenford, Middlesex The majority of participants travelled up from London on Saturday afternoon and enjoyed the breathtaking views driving across Britain’s most famous passes - the Wrynose and Hardknott Pass in the Lake District.

Following the exhilarating drive they arrived at the Eskdale Youth Hostel at the foot of the Pass where everyone enjoyed a lovely barbecue prepared by North East.

Following Maghrib/Ishaa Prayers there was a Darsul Qur’an highlighting verses placed emphasis on man pondering over the beauties of Allah’s creation. Following Dars there was a detailed team debrief in which the rules governing hiking in the mountains were explained including preparedness for potential difficulties.

The meeting concluded with silent prayer and all then retired to bed.

The morning started with Fajr prayers at 5am followed by a

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Most of the hikers soon realised that it was “no walk in the Park” as the steep inclines began to take their toll on everyones legs. “ Alhamdulillah “ was the only word that could describe the beauty of the mountain scenery that was being absorbed by all.

As they neared the summit unfortunately two people became quite ill with severe abdominal cramps. The disciplined training of the Khuddam then showed it’s colours as all rallied round the new head of the group Qaseem Hayat Sahib who made arrangements for the two ill members, informed the group of the situation and decided that the group would return to base in an orderly manner ensuring the safe descent of the two ill hikers as well as the whole team.

By the grace of Allah Almighty all the group arrived safely off the mountain at approximately 4pm.

[insh] the fourth and final calendared hike of the 2009/10 MKA UK year will be held on 26/27th June 2010 and will be in Scotland. For further inf information contact:

hikingclub@khuddam.org.uk

News & Events

Tariq Magazine September 2010

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News & Events

Hiking Club Guidance for Members Clothing/Footwear • Good walking boots - NOT TRAINERS • Thick socks • Walking Trousers - NOT JEANS • Many layers of top preferably quick drying fleece • Waterproof jacket and preferably over-trousers

Each person must carry with them: • • • • • •

Rucksack Strong Socks (2 pairs) Spare socks Spare jumper/fleece Drink Food sufficient for the day and possible extended walk • Whistle • Survival bag (MKA has about 20 survival bags) • Emergency rations (chocolate bars are a good source of energy)

Further Advice on Equipment The information below gives some further guidance on basic equipment.

Remember it is not necessary to spend vast amounts of money. Look around for good bargains. The store TK Max usually sells good quality ex main retail stock at very good prices.

Hiking Boots These are one of the most important pieces of equipment that you will require. Slipping is the number one reason for mountain rescue teams to be called out. Good boots do not have to be expensive; a good pair of Hiking Boots can be bought from £30 and can last you for years.

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• There are three things to look for with hiking boots.

• Good grip on the sole, especially at the back for when you go down hill • Good ankle support to stop your ankle twisting on uneven ground • Good water resistance Trainers are have little grip and do not provide ankle support. When walking on rocky and uneven ground, you can easily sprain your ankle

Waterproof Jacket & Trousers This is probably the single most important item of clothing needed.

Without it, the other warm clothing that you have tends to be completely useless as a combination of wet clothing and wind chill can be lethal, even in the summer.

Without anything to keep water from your other clothes they will stop keeping you warm and soon the extra weight will sap your energy. To stay dry is to stay safe from hypothermia and generally to stop you having a very miserable day.

A Jacket serves the following essential purposes: • Keep the water out (obvious).

• Keep water off your head (have a hood).

• Keep the wind out (unless you have an expensive windproof fleece).

A simple jacket that will do all of this can cost from £25, however more expensive jackets can go up to £250.

Waterproof trousers are often overlooked as essential items for hiking. But there have been incidents relating to people being soaked to the skin through the trousers in cold gale force winds and subsequently getting dangerously cold.

Make sure you have some waterproof trousers. They can be bought for around £10-£15.

Warm Layers Do not be lured into a false sense of security by the warm weather in Baitul Futuh, it will be cold on the mountains.

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to keep your body at the correct temperature. The most important part of doing that is to have warm “mid layers”. This might consist of a jumper or two as long as you keep them dry. The main thing to remember is that a small number of thinner layers is a lot better than one big jumper that is only going to hold in one layer of warm air.

Many people wear a quick drying fleece on top of a number of lighter layers. If it then becomes warmer they can remove some layers and if it gets colder they can add an extra jumper or spare fleece.

Lightweight fleece tops range from £15 to £50 where as a warm fleece jacket will cost between £25 and £150. With some of the more expensive jackets (£80 or more) you can expect the material to be semi or totally windproof. This simply means you do not have to put your waterproof on in high wind to stop the wind taking its effect.

Sensible Trousers Do NOT wear jeans, when they get wet they absorb many times their weight in water, they shrink and tend to cling to the skin making walking very difficult.

This quickly tires even a very fit person.

They rapidly transfer heat from the body, which could lead to serious hypothermia.

Simply wearing waterproof trousers over the top is not a solution either. Much better is to wear a pair of light weight

News & Events walking trousers, leggings or tracksuit bottoms. These trousers can be bought for as little as £10 from any outdoors or sports shop. Remember you trousers must also offer insulation from the cold.

Hat & Gloves A lot of heat is lost from the body through the hands and head therefore protection is essential.

Nothing fancy is required a simple woolly hat and some woolly gloves are perfectly sufficient for most conditions.

The only problem with wool is that when it gets wet it says wet and becomes heavy, therefore light weight and quick drying modern fleece materials are very useful.

Fleece gloves and hats start at about £10.

Small Rucksack + Liner A 25 - 40 litre rucksack tends to fit most people needs. Remember you might want a little more space in the winter for extra clothes. To keep your things dry you must put everything in plastic rucksack liners. You can buy liners from all outdoor shops but a black bag will do just as good a job. Prices for rucksacks of this size range from £15 to £80.

waterproofs are going to leak.

Whistle This is a basic but important piece of equipment in an emergency. If the worst comes to the worst and you are separated from the group, a whistle is probably the easiest way to attract attention. A whistle should not cost more than £2.

Walking poles It is generally accepted that two trekking poles are far better to have than one. The advantages of walking poles are they:

Spare Clothes It is important to always bring spare clothes with you. You never know when you are going to fall in a river or your

•

No member may leave a group without consulting the Hike Leader.

•

Stick together - try not to lag behind but do tell the leader if the pace is too fast. The aim is to walk at the pace of the slowest group member.

•

It must be emphasised that the Hike Leader is there to help your enjoyment of the countryside. He will not be able to help you if you don’t let him know if anything is wrong.

The club is open to Khuddam, Ansar and older Atfal.

•

Reduce knee strain during descent

•

Help breathing during ascent

•

•

Help with balance when crossing streams and walking in storms

Weather

MKA Hike rules The designated Hike Leader will make all decisions on Hikes. The Hike Leader agrees to lead hikes on the basis that their advice should be followed.

•

Members must consider whether they are fit enough, competent enough and confident enough before leaving to do a particular walk. If unsure please seek the advice of an experienced member.

•

Medical Conditions should be made clear to the hike leader prior to the hike.

•

All hike leaders will check the sacks of everyone on a hike to verify each individual has the necessary equipment.

Food & Drink You will have to bring a packed lunch and something to drink for the day.

Remember that you use a lot more energy hiking up and down mountains than sitting in meetings. Therefore, you need to have a good breakfast and highenergy food (such as Mars Bars) to keep you going as well as a good lunch. Always plan for the worst and take extra food so you do not get hungry if a hike is held up for any reason. As far as liquid goes a litre of water is normally about right, but more may be needed in hot weather

you are wearing jeans or trainers.

This is for your own safety and that of the group.

•

If in the opinion of the Hike Leader a member is not competent, fit, confident, or does not have the minimal required equipment then that member may be not permitted to begin the hike. Nearly all Hiking Clubs will not let you join a hike if

It is imperative that you are well prepared for the weather as it can be very unpredictable in the mountains.

It may seem the forecast was wrong but most of the time it is simply because mountain weather is very different to weather at home. The weather forecast which we generally hear in the media is for sea level. As a quick guide air temperature decreases by 1 degree Celsius for each 100 metres you climb.

So for example on a typical 800m climb a starting temperature of 10c will be 2c on the summit. On top of an average mountain in the UK, you can expect the wind speed to be twice that at sea level.

Hike Calendar & Further Information

The dates for the hikes are published in the National MKA Calendar each year.

Please address any queries to hikingclub@ khuddam.org.uk

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News & Events

Dear Editor Lord Pearson defends his relentless promotion of Geert Wilders in the UK by saying that he is a “a very great man” and although he doesn’t agree with Wilders’ call to ban the Qur’an, “the Qur’an should be very much more discussed among the Muslim community.”. OK, let’s discuss it then...

Mr Wilders “crusade” clearly contradicts the Western values of peace, integration, religious freedom and tolerance that Europe stands for and promotes around the world. In fact Mr Wilders seems to have resorted to the tactics of the fanatical extremists he claims represent the true Islam.

In the film Fitna, screened in the “Mother of all Parliaments,” Mr Wilders has selected and edited certain verses of the Holy Qur’an, played them alongside violent images of terrible acts and atrocities committed by minority extremists and terrorists, in an effort to convert the illiterate, ignorant and disaffected right wing population of Western Europe to his beliefs. See any similarities in the approach?

Mr Wilders’ Fitna film is replete with examples of misleading editing, some of which are set out below: In Chapter 8, Verse 61., Mr Wilders has quoted the verse where God instructs Muslims of the time of the Holy Prophet [saw] to prepare large armies to act as a deterrent and in order to maintain peace against those who would attack (as all Western powers do today).

“And make ready for them who fight you whatever you can of armed force and of mounted pickets at the frontier, whereby you may frighten your enemy and others besides them whom you know not, but Allah knows them.”

Interestingly, Geert Wilders does not mention the next verse: “And if they incline towards peace, incline thou towards it, and put they trust in Allah. Surely it is He Who is All-Hearing, AllKnowing.” (Ch 8:V.62) This verse clearly shows that the maintaining of peace is a key principle of Islam. Geert Wilders again misquotes a verse and omits the second part when he refers to Chapter 47, Verse 5.

“And when you meet in regular battle those who disbelieve, smite their necks; and , when you have overcome then, bind fast the fetters – then afterwards either release them as a favour or by taking ransom-until the war lays down its burdens…”

This verse is about rules of regular battle fought in self defence during specific times in Islam’s early history and makes it clear that Islam lays down strict rules for war such as: Under no circumstances should innocent citizens be hurt, especially women and children and property, crops, fruit trees and places of worship of all religions are to be protected.

Nowhere does the Qur’an provide justification for Muslims to capture and behead non-Muslim prisoners as Mr Wilders

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would have us believe.

Let us look at some verses of the Holy Qur’an, which clearly demonstrate Islam is a peaceful religion and how Muslims are instructed to behave.

The Holy Qur’an describes true Muslims as those who: …walk on the earth in a dignified manner, and when the ignorant address them, they say, ‘Peace!’ (Ch.25:V.64) And then…

“O ye who believe! Be steadfast in the cause of Allah, bearing witness in equity; and let not a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness.

And fear Allah. Surely, Allah is aware of what you do.” (Ch.5:V.9) Some of the verses of the Holy Qur’an referring to war time are presented by Mr Wilders as some sort of code for all Muslims to follow in their daily lives. There is no mention of the model of peace, forbearance and tolerance demonstrated by The Holy Prophet Muhammad [saw] in the 13 years of persecution and torture faced by the Muslims following his claim to Prophethood. Muslims are taught quite clearly that God only gave permission for arms to be taken up in self-defence once Muslims were denied their freedom to practise their religion and armies were sent to kill them all.

By employing the same logic as Mr Wilders, one could quote some of the things Prophet Jesus [as] is reported to have said about the Jews, or the actions of 16th Century crusaders to label Christianity as an inherently violent and bloodthirsty religion – which it is not. We see similar injustice with the proposed minaret ban in Switzerland, why can the minaret be no more to a mosque than a spire is to a church or the Star of David is to a synagogue?

In the West, the majority of Muslims are proud to live in democratic states which allow people of all faiths to build places of worship and practise their faith with complete freedom. I would argue that the ideology and views of Geert Wilders and his Right Wing sympathisers are as much of a danger to these democracies as the minority extremist terrorists they claim to be representative of the Muslim World.

Ali Khan (Sutton)

News & Events

Interview with a New Ahmadi Interview by Usman A. Khan, Mohtamim Tarbiyyat Nau Mobai’een MKA UK Assalamu’ Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu. My name is Sadiq Mutembei and I am 29 years old. I was born and brought up in Nairobi, Kenya up until the age of 13. I am the eldest of three children. I am currently an employee of T-Mobile UK although I am looking at options of going into teaching. I have also worked for the civil service.

1. Tell us about your journey to Islam Ahmadiyyat.

My journey began almost 9yrs ago in 2001 where a colleague at work gave me a book to read regarding Islam after a debate regarding religious beliefs at work. Although very thoughtful, friends and family were against the idea of Islam and they made several remarks e.g. ‘You are not welcome in my house if you are reading that material’, and so on, I was forced to retreat and read the book behind closed doors. I devoured all information I could about Islam. My primary source was the Internet. There were so many articles and so many quotations from the Holy Qur’an & Hadith to back these up but when does one know what is opinion and what is fact? I prayed to Allah for guidance and Alhamdulillah finally a member of the Jama’at came to my work place and my journey into Islam Ahmadiyya began.

2. What were your perceptions of Islam Ahmadiyyat before you accepted Islam and how have those changed since?

My perception was that which fellow Muslim brothers who neglect the truth had implanted in my head. They said Ahmadis were kuffar (naudhubillah) and made several other remarks which were not very encouraging for someone who is in the process of converting. I decided to do my own investigating and another colleague gave me the Alislam.org website which I started reading for my own benefit and what I found was quite the contrary. I learnt about the Promised Messiah [as].

3. How has accepting Islam Ahmadiyyat changed your life and what benefits have you gained?

Since accepting Islam Ahmadiyyat I have discovered truth, inner happiness, been able to acquire peace, harmony, tranquility and happiness within perseverance, acceptance of all and my duty to mankind in regards to the salvation of all. I have benefited from a sense of one community, acceptance of all people under one umbrella, truth and freedom. The regional Ijtema that I recently attended showed me the togetherness of the

community and the acceptance to relate with which all the brothers were willing. While practicing fasting during Ramadhan, I was able to exercise self-control, self-restraint, self-discipline, self-education, self-evaluation, and self-obedience to Allah the Creator. This undoubtedly improves health, personality, character, and behaviour.

4. What challenges have you faced as a convert to Islam Ahmadiyyat and how did you overcome them?

I have had some difficult moments either through friends (some of whom I have lost), and through my fellow Muslim brothers who felt Ahmadiyyat was the wrong way to go. The process of conversion isn’t a simple journey, and sometimes a person feels rather alone. Many converts are isolated and do not have direct access to the mosque or community however I have had the joy of having people whom I can’t thank enough for their support and teaching. That is Bajwa Sahib, Shafiq Sahib and Usman Sahib whose weekly emails are a source of knowledge and encouragement.

5. What has been the reaction of your friends and family to your conversion?

My family is predominantly Catholic and they are anti-Islam at all costs, so as you can imagine they have poked fun at me, made ridicule and stated that they do not want me plastered all over the press as a terrorist. I have also explained to them that Islam is a religion of love and peace, that not all Muslims are responsible for everything done in the name of Islam, nor do Tariq Magazine September 2010

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News & Events

I agree with all the negative things done in the name of Islam such as Jihad. Jihad, in its intended purpose is to defend one’s religion in the most non-harmful way.

6. How has being a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community helped?

I have found reasoning, teaching, belief and truth. The various literatures explaining the institution of Khilafat; The conditions of Bai’at; Acceptance of the Imam of the age; The unity within the community is like no other and has further strengthened my belief in the revival of Islam as we live in the last days.

7. How have you found integration into the Community?

It has been made easy by the various events, meetings and Q&A sessions that have taken place and whereby I have met members of the Jama’at. I have felt like I belong to the “Community of the Believers” (ummat al-mu’minin).

8. What events or activities would you like to see taking place?

There should be more Tabligh sessions and meeting specially designed for new Ahmadis to enable their integration into the Jama’at quicker and smoother. New converts and reverts always thirst for more knowledge and these sessions would act as a source of teaching with a senior member of the Jama’at.

a long time in the making from your perspective, but it may be completely surprising to your loved ones. Give them time to accept the change in your life and for them to accept that you have found truth in Allah Subhanahu-wa-Ta’ala.

10. Finally, as someone who has found Truth, what advice would you have for any seeker after Truth?

Becoming Muslim does not mean you must entirely reinvent yourself and do away with anything that came before. It means you have a duty to Allah to worship Him and only Him with all your might. Don’t let unfounded lies put you off your search and remain keen in your search and no matter what happens the truth WILL set you free.

The heart and mind may acquire what you take in but guidance can ONLY come from The Almighty. Pray and Believe in what you have found and do NOT delay by saying tomorrow, tomorrow. Seize the moment that Allah Subhanahu-wa-Ta’ala has bestowed on you and Insha’Allah you will be blessed for Allah is the Bestower, Protector and Restorer of mankind.

If doubts ever creep in, P.U.S.H (Pray Until Something Happens) and Allah Ta’ala will come to your aid Insha’Allah.

9. What advice would you have for your fellow new converts into Islam?

Family and friends need time to accept the changes you’re making in your life. Your journey toward Islam may have been

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News & Events

National Football Tournament

Report by Farooq Mirza - Mohtamim Sehat-e-Jismani, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK

The National Football Tournament has become one of the most eagerly awaited events on the Khuddam calendar - even more so this year as it coincides with the 2010 World Cup. The 2009 7evens Tournament was a great success and achieved a record attendance, however as with all our events, the aim is always to improve upon previous editions. To achieve this, the planning began very early in identifying a venue capable of hosting Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK’s flagship sports event.

the infrastructure and logistics for the event. After the success of last year’s National Cricket Tournament and with Bath being in South West Region, Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK approved the region to have the honour of hosting this year’s tournament.

After a lot of hard work and negotiation by the sports team specifically Saif Ahmedi Sahib - Bath University was chosen as the venue to host the tournament. Many venues were considered, however it was the picturesque landscape of Bath and the unparalleled history of Bath University’s sports and athletics facilities that made the decision easy for us.

With the success of the IFL Inter Qiadat Football League, there had been very good communication with the captains of the teams. Therefore, with the aid of the captains we were able to confirm and preregister a record 26 Khuddam teams, as well as 8 Atfal teams before the tournament began. Over two months of regular communication between members of the Sehat-e-Jismani team and team captains across the country was vital in organising and scheduling the event. Prior to the event Sadr Majlis completed the draw and, for the first time, there was to be a National Majlis-e-Amila team captained by Sadr Majlis himself.

Once the venue was confirmed, a region was needed to provide

The day began with an opening address from Sadr Majlis

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News & Events wearing the National Majlis-e-Amila team kit. The key points of the speech encouraged Khuddam to play with the correct attitude - remembering that they are Ahmadi Muslims. The weather on the day was hot, and whilst this was welcome, it did add to the physical test of the tournament on each of the players.

On the day there were seven very well prepared grass pitches in total, each team was seven-a-side and consisted of a squad of up to 13 Khuddam, some regions including Baitul Futuh had up to three teams on the day.

Once the games kicked off it was easy to see that each team was taking the tournament very seriously. It also rapidly became evident that by the Grace of Allah, the level and quality of the Khuddam players in every team was of a high level and noticeably improved from previous years.

Lunch was provided and Sadr Majlis led Salaat before the football commenced again and, as in this year’s World Cup, there were some shock results, none more so then the National Majlis-e-Amila team qualifying from its group into the knock out stages of the competition.

Perhaps the biggest surprise was Islamabad B going further than its A team and reaching the semi-final against last year’s winners, Midlands. It was a close match with Midlands eventually reaching the final, to be followed shortly by the surprise package, Baitun Nur. As the teams lined up for the final, Sadr Majlis was introduced to each member of the two teams by their respective captains. After silent prayer, the referee Qadoos Samad blew his whistle to commence the game. As the game unfolded it was clear to all that they were witnessing one of the best and most competitively contested games of the tournament.

The burning heat of the sun had taken its toll on the legs of the players but not their determination to be crowned 2010 champions. Both teams were close to winning it in a back and forth encounter, however as the referee blew for full time, for the first time in their history, Baitun Nur, captained by the player of the tournament, Abdullah Diba, were crowned Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya 2010 National Football Tournament Champions. The majority of the team

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News & Events was from Jamia and, as Sadr Majlis noted in his closing address, the future of our football was safe in their hands. The eventual winners of the Atfal tournament were Baitul Futuh.

and finally thanks must go to Sadr Majlis for all his prayers and continued guidance at every stage of the delivery of this event.

Without Allah’s help nothing is possible.

The previous year’s attendance was 397 Khuddam and Atfal.

This year’s National Football Tournament attendance totalled 427 Khuddam and Atfal - a record for any Khuddam sports event. The event was a huge success. I must make a special mention to Shazil Lone Sahib and Saif Ahmedi Sahib for negotiating the venue and, of course, the whole Sehat-eJismani team as it is only due to a team effort and Allah’s Grace that an event of such magnitude can truly be delivered. Thanks must go to South West region, ably managed by the Regional Qaid, Muhammad Noman Sahib for all their hard work. They led the way for any region in hosting a National sports event

I humbly request everyone to pray for the continued success of the sports team in delivering bigger and better events for Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya UK. I hope each of you who attended relays feedback to all those Khuddam that didn’t attend in letting them know that they missed a high quality event.

I hope to see you all at our next event and I challenge you to come out and show us what you are made of !

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5 Articles Truthfulness of the Promised Messiah [as] Comments By Non-Ahmadi Scholars at the time of The Promised Messiah [as] The Neo-Mullahs are recently busy producing recycled misinformation about the Promised Messiah [as].

Ahl-i Hadith, Hanafi, Shiah or Sunni, are obliged to support this book and its printing.

However, let us see what many of the respected Muslim leaders, leaders and even Maulanas of the the time had to say about the Promised Messiah [as]. These were people who experienced at first hand the Promised Messiah [as] and his work. This is what they had to say about him

The author of Braheen e Ahmadiyya has saved the honour of the Muslims.

1 “Maulawi Muhammad Husain Batalvi”: He was a leader of the Ahl-i-Hadith sect, and editor of a journal Isha’at as-Sunna, who later became a chief opponent of Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad [as]. Earlier, he wrote a comprehensive review on the Promised Messiah [as]’s book Braheen e Ahmadiyya when it appeared in 1884, highly praising the work. Given below are some extracts: “In our opinion this book, at this time and in view of the present circumstances, is such that the like of it has not appeared in Islam up to now, while nothing can be said about the future. Its author too has been so constant in the service of Islam, with his money, life, pen and tongue, and personal experience, that very few parallels can be found in the Muslims.

If anyone considers our words to be an Asian exaggeration, let him show us at least one such book which so vigorously fights all the opponents of Islam, especially the Arya and Brahamo Samaj, and let him name two or three persons who have supported Islam, not only with their wealth, lives, pen and tongue, but also by personal spiritual experience, and who have boldly thrown the challenge to all the opponents of Islam and the deniers of Divine revelation, that whoever doubts the truth of God speaking to man, he may come and observe it for himself, thus giving other religions a taste of this experience.”

(Isha’at as-Sunna, vol. vii, no. 6, June to August 1884, pp. 169170) “According to the experience and observation of friend and foe alike, the author of Braheen e Ahmadiyya lives by the Shari’ah of Islam, is God-fearing and truthful by habit.” (ibid., p. 284) “The excellence of this book, and the benefit accruing to Islam from it, will not remain hidden to those who read it with a fair mind, or to the readers of this review.

Therefore, in accordance with the Divine command, ‘Is not the reward for good but good’, all the followers of Islam, be they

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He has challenged the opponents of Islam throughout the world that anyone who doubts the truth of Islam should come to him and see for himself its truth by logical arguments drawn from the Qur’an, and by miracles of the Prophethood of Muhammad [saw], by which he means the revelations and signs granted to the author of Braheen.” (ibid., p. 348)

2) Maulana Abdullah Al-Imadi: He was the permanent editor of Wakeel, and he added his own tribute a few days later as follows: “Although Mirza Sahib had not received systematic education in current knowledge and theology, yet an assessment of his life shows that he had a unique nature not granted to everyone: by the aid of his own study and his upright nature, he had attained sufficient mastery over religious literature. In about 1877, when he was 35 or 36 years old, we find him charged with unusual religious fervour. He is leading the life of a true and pious Muslim. His heart is unimpressed by worldly attractions. He is as happy in solitude as if he were in congenial company, and when in company he is enjoying the bliss of solitude. We find him restless, and it appears as if he is in search of a lost thing, no trace of which can be found in the mortal world. Islam has so overwhelmed him that he holds debates with the Aryas, and writes voluminous books in support of Islam. His debates in Hoshiarpur in 1886 were so delightful that the feeling of enjoyment has still not been forgotten… The state of ecstasy created by reading his invaluable books which were written to counter other religions and to uphold Islam, still has not faded.

His Braheen e Ahmadiyya overawed the non-Muslims and raised the spirits of the Muslims. He presented to the world a captivating picture of the religion [of Islam], cleansed of the blots and dust that had collected upon it as a result of the superstition and natural weaknesses of the ignorant. In short, this book raised a loud echo in the world, at least within India, which is still reverberating in our ears.

Though some Muslim religious leaders may now pass an adverse verdict on Braheen e Ahmadiyya, …the best time to pass judgment was 1880 when it was published. At that time, however, Muslims unanimously decided in favour of Mirza Sahib.”

Articles As to his character, there is not the slightest trace of a blot on it. He lived a virtuous life, the life of a righteous, God-fearing person. To conclude, the first fifty years of his life, in terms of high morals and commendable habits, and in terms of services to the religion, raised him to an enviable position of distinction and honour among the Muslims of India.”

(Wakeel, Amritsar, 30 May 1908)

3 Shams-ul-Ulama Maulana Sayyid Mumtaz Ali: He was editor of the famous magazine Tehzib-e-Niswan, Lahore. He wrote: “The late Mirza Sahib was a very saintly and exalted personage.

And he had such spiritual power born of virtue that it could enslave the hardest of hearts.

He was a very knowledgeable scholar, a reformer of great determination, and an exemplar of the most virtuous life.

Although we do not believe him to be the Promised Messiah, his guidance and teaching was indeed messianic for the spiritually dead.”

4 Allama Niyaz Fatehpuri “Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib came to the defence of Islam at a time when even the greatest scholar of the Faith could not dare to confront the opponents.”

(Monthly Nigar, Lucknow, India, October 1960) “What I have studied so far of the founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement, and not only me but anyone who studies his life and character sincerely and truthfully, will have to concede that he was a lover of the Holy Prophet [saw], in the true sense, and had within him a sincere urge for the cause of Islam.” (ibid., July 1960) In a subsequent issue of the same monthly, the following comment appears about the Promised Messiah [as]: “I found him to be a believer in the finality of prophethood, and a lover of the Holy Prophet [saw] in the true sense.

When I studied the life of Mirza Sahib, I found that he was certainly a very active, resolute and determined man. Having understood the true spirit of religion, he presented the same practical teachings of Islam as are to be found in the time of the Holy Prophet [saw] and the early Khalifas.” (ibid)

5 Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: He was a very famous Islamic scholar, author and journalist in India this century. He was also President of the Indian National Congress before independence, and after the independence of India he held high posts in the federal cabinet of the Indian Republic.

At the time of the death of the Promised Messiah [as], he was acting as the editor of a well-known Muslim newspaper, the Wakeel of Amritsar. Below are extracts from the lengthy obituary of the Promised Messiah that Maulana Abul Kalam Azad wrote in his newspaper: “That man, that very great man, whose pen was a magic wand and whose tongue spell-binding; that man whose brain was a complex of wonders, whose eye could revive the dying and whose call aroused those in the graves, whose fingers held the wires of revolution and whose fists were electrical batteries; that man who for thirty years was an earth-quake and typhoon for the religious world, who, like the trumpet of Doomsday, awakened those lost in the slumber of life, he has left the world empty-handed.

This bitter death, this cup of poison, which entrusted the deceased to dust, will remain on thousands, nay millions of tongues, as words of bitter disappointment and regret.

The stroke of death which slaughtered, along with one who was very much alive, the hopes and longings of many, and the wails it raises of lament, will remain in memories for a long time to come.”

“The demise of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib of Qadian is not such an event that a lesson should not be learnt from it, nor should it be consigned to the passage of time to efface.

Such people who produce a religious or intellectual revolution are not born often.

These sons of history, in whom it rightly takes pride, appear but rarely on the world scene, and when they do they bring about a revolution for all to see.”

“In spite of our strong differences with Mirza Sahib in respect of some of his claims and beliefs, his separation for ever has convinced the educated and enlightened Muslims that one of their very great personages has left them.

And with him the mighty defence of Islam against its opponents, which was linked with his person, has come to an end.

His special characteristic, that he acted against the enemies of Islam as a victorious general, compels us to express openly our feeling that the grand movement which for so long defeated and trod over our opponents should be continued in the future also.”

“Mirza Sahib appeared in the front line of devotees who, for the cause of Islam, accepted the dedication to sacrifice their time from the cradle, through the springs and autumns, to their graves in fulfilling the pledge of loyalty to their beautiful beloved Islam…”

“The literature produced by Mirza Sahib in his confrontation with the Christians and the Aryas has received the seal of general approval, and for this distinction he needs no introduction.

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Articles We have to acknowledge the value and greatness of this literature from the bottom of our hearts, now that it has done its work.

This is because that time cannot be forgotten nor effaced from the mind when Islam was besieged by attacks on all sides, and the Muslims, who had been entrusted with the defence of Islam by the Real Defender, as the means of defence in this world of causes and means, were lying flat sobbing in the aftermath of their shortcomings, doing nothing for Islam or not being able to do anything for it…”

“Then began that counter-attack from the side of the Muslims in which Mirza Sahib had a part. That defence not only shattered to bits the initial influence of Christianity, which it really had due to support from the government, and saved thousands, nay millions, of Muslims from this dangerous attack which would have succeeded, but the talisman of Christianity itself was blown away like smoke…”

“So, this service rendered by Mirza Sahib will place the coming generations under a debt of gratitude, in that he fulfilled his duty of the defence of Islam by joining the front rank of those engaged in the jihad by the pen, and he left behind him as a memorial such literature as will last so long as Muslims have blood flowing in their veins and the urge to support Islam remains their prominent national characteristic.

Besides this, Mirza Sahib performed a very special service for Islam by crushing the poisonous fangs of the Arya Samaj…

His writings against the Arya Samaj shed clear light on the claim that, however much the scope of our defence may be widened in the future, it is impossible that these writings could ever be overlooked.”

“Natural intelligence, application and dexterity, and continuous debates, had lent Mirza Sahib a special splendour. He had vast knowledge, not only of his own religion, but also of other religions.

This was due to his natural ability, taste for study, and hard work. It is not likely that a man of this grandeur will be born again in the religious world of the Indian sub-continent, who would devote his highest desires in this way to the study of religions.”

(Wakeel, Amritsar)

6 Shams-ul-Ulama Maulana Sayyid Mir Hasan;He was a teacher of Dr Sir Muhammad Iqbal. In an interview, he gave the following evaluation of the Promised Messiah [as]: “Sadly, we did not appreciate him. I just cannot describe his spiritual accomplishments. His life was not that of ordinary men, nay, he was one of those persons who are the chosen servants of God and who appear but rarely.”

(Reported in Al-Hakam, 7 April 1934)

7 Hadhrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid of Chachran’:The Khawaja was also a contemporary of Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib [as], and is today a famous Muslim saint of Pakistan. He told his followers: “Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani is also right, and he is right and truthful in his affair. Day and night he is engrossed in the service of God Almighty. He has given his life for the progress of Islam and raising aloft the cause of the Faith. I can see nothing wrong or bad in him at all. If he has claimed to be the Mahdi and Messiah, that too is among the things which are permissible.”

(Isharat-i Faridi, compilation of the talks of Khawaja Ghulam Farid, by his son, p. 179)

He was one of 8 Allama Dr. Sir Muhamthose persons who are mad Iqbal;Muslim philosopher And he was able to the chosen servants of God andThepoetrenowned of the Indian sub-continent use his vast knowledge published a paper in 1900 in The with great finesse. In and who appear but Indian Antiquary, a learned journal of the art of preaching and oriental research, entitled The Doctrine teaching, he had acquired of Absolute Unity as expounded by Abdul the accomplishment that the rarely Karim Jilani. The paper deals with the person whom he addressed, of whatever understanding or religion, was thrown into deep thought by his spontaneous reply.

India today is an exhibition house of religions, and the number of great and small faiths found here, along with their mutual struggles which announce their existence, cannot be matched anywhere else in the world.

Mirza Sahib’s claim was that he was the arbiter and judge for them all, but there is no doubt that he possessed a special talent to make Islam pre-eminent among all these religions.

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metaphysical thought of this saint (d. circa 1408 C.E.) as expounded in his classic work Al-Insan al-Kamil. While commenting on Jilani’s philosophy, Iqbal writes:

“It will appear at once how strikingly the author has anticipated the chief phase of the Hegelian Dialectic and how greatly he has emphasised the Doctrine of the Logos --- a doctrine which has always found favour with almost all the profound thinkers of Islam, and in recent times has been readvocated

by M. Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, probably the profoundest theologian among modern Indian Muhammadans.”

Articles His followers are not only common and unlearned people, but include able and bright graduates, viz., B.A., M.A., and very learned Ulama. It is a matter of no small pride for a religious leader of this day that persons educated on traditional lines as well as persons educated on modern lines, both types, should become his followers. Surviving the heat of predictions of his death, opposition, and criticism, he cleared his way to reach the highest pinnacle of progress.”

(Curzon Gazette, Delhi, 1st June 1908)

10 Maulawi Bashir-ud-Din, He was editor of Sadiq-ul-Akhbar, Rewari (U.P., India) and wrote as follows in his obituary: “As Mirza Sahib, with his forceful speeches and magnificent writings, shattered the foul criticism of the opponents of Islam, silencing them forever and proving that truth is after all the truth, and as he left no stone unturned in the service of Islam by championing its cause to the full, justice requires that one should condole the sudden and untimely death of such a resolute defender of Islam, helper of the Muslims, and an eminent and irreplaceable scholar.”

Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad [as], The Promised Messiah

(The Indian Antiquary, vol. xxix, September 1900, p. 239.

11 The editor of the Lahore Municipal Gazette wrote:

[Note: The reference is quoted above in the original English.

Journal published from Bombay and London; in London by Kegan Paul, Trench, Trubner and Co.]

“The Mirza Sahib was specially renowned for his knowledge and scholarship. His writings were also eloquent. In any case, we are grieved by his death for the reason that he was a Muslim.

We believe that a scholar has been taken from the world.”

9 Mirza Hairat of Delhi:

12 Maulawi Siraj-ud-Din

He was editor of the Curzon Gazette. In his obituary of Hadhrat Mirza Sahib [as], he wrote:

He was the editor of the leading Muslim Urdu daily paper, the Zamindar of Lahore, at the time of Hadhrat Mirza [as]’s death. He wrote:

“The services of the deceased, which he rendered to Islam in confrontation with the Christians and the Arya Samajists, deserve the highest praise. He completely changed the flow of the debate, and laid the foundations of a new literature in India.

We admit, not because of our being Muslims but being seekers after truth, that the top most Arya Samaj leader or Christian missionary could not dare open his mouth to confront the late Mirza Sahib.

The incomparable books which he wrote in refutation of the Arya Samaj and Christian creeds, and the shattering replies he gave to the opponents of Islam, we have not seen any rational refutation of these except that the Aryas have been hurling abuse at the Founder and the teachings of Islam in an uncouth manner, without being able to give a sensible reply. Although the deceased was a Punjabi, yet his pen was so powerful that today in the whole of the Punjab, even in the whole of India, there is no author of such power…and it is true that, on reading some of his writings, one goes into a state of ecstasy. Although he did not receive any regular education in Arabic language, literature or grammar, he gained such a proficiency in Arabic by his God-given intellect and nature that he could write it quite naturally…

“Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib was a clerk near the district of Sialkot in about 1860 or 1861. He would be about 22 or 23 years of age at the time. We can say from personal experience that, even in his youth, he was a very virtuous and righteous person. After work all his time was spent in religious studies.

He did not much meet people. In 1877 we had the honour of his hospitality at his home in Qadian for one night. In those days too, he was so engrossed in worship and devotion that he conversed little, even with guests. ... We have often said, and we again say, that even if his claims were the result of mental pre-occupation, he was innocent of pretence or fabrication. ...

Scholarly figures such as Maulawi Nur-ud-Din and Maulawi Muhammad Ahsan, and products of modern education such as Khawaja Jamal-ud-Din, B.A., Khawaja Kamal-ud-Din, B.A., and Maulawi Muhammad Ali, M.A., are among his followers.

Though we personally did not have the honour of believing in his claims or revelations, nonetheless we consider him to be a perfect Muslim.”

(Zamindar, 8 June 1908)

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Articles

A “Good Man”

English translation of an excerpt from Way of the Seekers by Hadhrat Khalifatul Masih II [ra] Continued from Tariq Magazine Volume 15 issue 4

What is Sin?

Why should this happen? Why are the more permanent ends of life ignored?

I now turn to the definition of sin. Sin is an activity which renders the human soul sick and incapable of viewing the face of God. Difficulties have to be encountered in the journey which the soul undertakes as it moves towards the purpose of its creation. Activities which amount to sinning are either physical, whose dangers are visible to oneself as well as to others; or, they are spiritual. Of the physical activities many are such that the dangers and disabilities they entail are obvious.

Firstly, because of ignorance, which may be permanent or passing. Permanent ignorance is a thing apart. Temporary ignorance is ignorance despite knowledge. This sort of ignorance can have many causes:

What are good deeds? Good deeds are deeds which bring a person enough strength to join the onward march in the hereafter and which makes the soul capable of viewing the countenance of the Lord. Normally, a healthy person means one who is capable of going about life’s activities in a normal way. One does not have to be extra-capable. One has to be just capable. Otherwise, small defects exist in everyone. Doctors cannot point to a single perfectly healthy body. A good man is one who has done enough good deeds, both physical and spiritual, to be capable of viewing the countenance of God.

Kinds of Virtues and Vices We cannot give an adequate account of the different kinds of sin, unless we can also describe different kinds of virtue. So, let us remember, there are three kinds of virtues and correspondingly three different kinds of vices or sins. They are as follows: • • •

Virtues and vices which pertain to the heart. These indeed are the real virtues or vices.

Virtues and vices of the tongue or expression.

Virtues and vices which entail the use of the other physical organs like hands, feet, eyes, etc., etc.

Where Does Sin Come From?

Here an important question arises. It may be asked, with so many encouragements towards a life of virtue, and so many discouragements towards a life of vice, and so much room for improvement, how does vice manage to enter the life of man?

I can only briefly indicate the answers to this important question. The main causes of sin are the following.

(1) Ignorance. Sometimes a person allows himself no time for reflection while trying to satisfy his natural impulses and allows a passing interest or pleasure to determine his action.

The excitement of the moment removes from his view the more permanent and the more solidly happy ends of life.

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1. Greed – too much greed blinds a person to many important matters 2. Pugnacity 3. Intense need 4. Bad health 5. Excessive fear 6. Excessive love 7. Excessive optimism 8. Excessive pessimism 9. Excessive insistence on anything 10. Excessive desire 11. Excessive lack of desire 12. Hereditary tendencies These are the twelve sources or circumstances which produce or promote ignorance.

(2) Besides ignorance, the second big source of sin is social contacts and companions. Man is a born imitator. He tends to do as others do, without weighing and considering the consequences of what he is doing. These social influences include the influence of parents and other relations, playmates, teachers, social institutions and customs.

One source of sin and sinning we have said is ignorance. But ignorance can be just ignorance or it can be wrong knowledge, which makes it different from sheer ignorance. Wrong knowledge is invariably accepted as knowledge, and spurious generalisations as authentic principles.

Another source of sinning is bad habits. Knowing very well what truth is and that merit attaches to telling the truth, when the crucial moment arrives a person tends not to tell the truth.

An addict makes up his mind not to drink any more. He knows all about drinking and not drinking. But when the party sits down to drink he allows himself to join in and cannot resist the temptation. At the slightest call his resolve not to drink is broken.

Sinning is also caused by habits of laziness and lack of organised hours of daily life. A person tends to take things easy. He is carefree. He has no inclination to work. When the time comes, he tends to make light of what he has to do. Time passes and he suddenly finds himself drinking. Once a sincere companion of the Holy Prophet [saw] was all but ready to go to the battlefield, but he made no preparation for it. He had persuaded

Articles himself that when the time came he would be able to join the party with ease. He continued to leave his preparations to the end. The result was he was left behind and could not join the army. Laziness, therefore, is often the cause of sin. Man is lazy and easy-going and is incapable of commanding himself to get up and go.

One source of sinning is lack of comparative judgment. Out of two alternative courses of action, a person cannot decide which is the better of the two. It also becomes a question for such people how different emotions are to be applied to different situations and is made by two parties, but how far does one go with one party and how far with the other? A man loves his wife but also his mother. Both have a similar title to love.

This gives rise to difficult situations which are largely selfcreated. Similarly, many people become convinced of the truth of the Promised Messiah [as] but hesitate to join the fold. They say they owe allegiance to another saint whom they do not want to leave. These difficulties are due to an incapacity to judge.

wanted to answer experimentally. Our grandmother who was an amused spectator and was standing nearby, dismissed the whole idea. She thought animals could not be influenced. She said: Here is a sparrow. Catch it if you can. I took her at her word. As I gazed into the eyes of the sparrow, I went close to her. She did not move. But when I proceeded to catch her, my hand intervened between her eyes and mine. This broke the spell and she flew out of my hand.

One traveller writes: I saw a squirrel running mad. Round and round she went gravitating at the same spot from which she had started. When I went near the spot I saw a snake protruding out his neck. The two were eventually very close to each other.

The snake was about to make a morsel of her. I too went closer.

The snake was still intent on eating her up. I hit the snake and scared it away. It is obvious; the squirrel was aware of the presence of the snake and wanted him to run away, before she did.

What Another traveller writes: In an are good deeds?

African jungle I saw a bird Another source of sin is the many fluttering for life. I looked invisible influences which criss-cross closer and saw a snake Good deeds are deeds one another in our lives. They exert a looking intently into the kind of hypnotic influence, unknown eyes of the bird. I killed to the person affected. No argument the snake but later I found which bring a person is given nor is any appeal made, but the bird too had died, the presence of influences which possibly out of the fear of ideas generate is undeniable. This enough strength to join the being caught. needs some explanation. Let a decent person live in close proximity to nine In England they performed onward march in the another others not so decent, who nurse evil kind of experiment. Two thought without any overt communication. insects of the same species were He will soon begin to feel the evil influence. placed apart at a distance of five miles hereafter This reminds me of a Sikh student who had great from each other. In course of time, they affection for the Promised Messiah [as]. On one occasion he sent a message to him – through Hadhrat Maulana Nuruddin Sahib [ra] – that his mind was being affected by agnostic thinking. The Promised Messiah [as] suggested that this young man should change his seat in the classroom and sit away from his classmates who sat close to him. The change proved the cure for his agnosticism. No argument had passed between them, but unexpressed thoughts were being communicated in some mysterious way.

Thoughts are like waves and have a power of their own. The Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet [saw] endorse this.

Animal life also bears out this point. For example, two cats confront each other in an imminent fight. After an exchange of the usual mutual threats and noises, one of them is found to lower its tail and leave. There is no visible fight; yet there was some kind of a contact.

Animals communicate without words or signs. Let four or five lions be brought together. Before long, only the strongest of them will be left standing as the master of the scene. Others will have lowered their tails and slipped away. If meat is thrown to them, none will dare eat except the strongest; the rest will just stand by and watch as if paralysed with some secret fear.

both found each other. Something intangible must have exerted its pull to join them together.

An American biologist built an ant-house and sealed it carefully from the outside. After a while, whole colonies of ants were found sticking to the outside of a wall of the ant-house.

On closer examination, it was discovered that the ants were sticking on the outside of the wall exactly on the spot where another colony of ants had collected inside. The experiment was repeated in another house, with the same result.

From these examples it is obvious that even at the animal level waves of some kind shoot out which are more mental than physical. Their impact on intercommunication and mutual relations is undeniable. They do affect our modes of behaviour.

It is said that whenever the Holy Prophet [saw] mixed with groups of people, he would invoke God’s forgiveness and protection seventy times, not that he was afraid of physical contagion, though it is true Prophets love to be clean and that was one reason why he sought God’s protection, but the other and the more important reason was that he cared for people who were clean in their own right but were likely to be affected by unclean thoughts and their evil influence.

Hypnosis: Under hypnosis too we can observe similar phenomena. I was once experimenting with hypnotic influences. I had some questions raised by agnostics which I Tariq Magazine September 2010

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6 Books of the Promised Messiah [as] In every issue of Tariq Magazine, we reproduce introductions to some of the Books of the Promised Messiah [as]. In this issue these are taken from the book by Naseem Saifi Sahib entitled “Introducing the books of the Promised Messiah.” In this issue we will look at Jang–i–Muqaddas (Te Sacred Battle) and Khutba Ilhamiyya (The Revealed Sermon).

Jang-i-Muqaddas (The Sacred Battle)

Jang-i-Muqaddas was a debate which took place between Hadhrat Ahmad [as], the representative of the Muslims, and Abdulla Atham, the representative of the Christians. It started on 22nd May 1893 and continued till 5th June 1893. The sessions were co-presided over by a Muslim - Ghulam Qadir Fasih- and a Christian - Rev. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke.

The main topic of the debate was the godhead of Jesus Christ [as]. On the side of the Muslims, all the papers were written by Hadhrat Ahmad [as] while on the side of the Christians, Abdullah Atham did so, except on one day when he was indisposed and Rev. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke replaced him. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke himself was replaced as co-president on that day by another Christian named Ihsanullah. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke was a missionary at Amritsar. He extended his activities to a nearby place called Jandiyalla. A certain Muslim, Mian Mohammad Bakhsh, took it upon himself to defend Islam. He taught some other Muslims also how to defend Islam against the Christian attacks. Thus started discourses between Christians and the Muslims of Jandiyala. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke was informed of the situation and he addressed a letter to Mian Mohammad Bakhsh in the latter’s capacity of a representative of the Muslims. In this letter, Dr. Henry Martin Clarke said that Mian Mohammad Bakhsh could call upon any of the Muslims to come and debate the issues with them. Mian Mohammad Bakhsh was not very well versed in theology and he, therefore, wrote to Hadhrat Ahmad [as] to come to the aid of the Muslims of Jandiyala. Hadhrat Ahmad [as] readily agreed. He wrote a letter direct to Dr. Henry Martin Clarke. The doctor did not like to face Hadhrat Ahmad [as] and, therefore, wrote back to say that he had called upon the Muslims of Jandiyala for a debate and not Hadhrat Ahmad [as]. He also tried to avoid a confrontation with Hadhrat Ahmad [as] by saying that he - Hadhrat Ahmad [as] - was not considered to be a Muslim and therefore he could not be taken as representative of theirs (Muslims).

In reply to this, Mian Mohammad Bakhsh wrote to the doctor that whatever their differences might be, he took Hadhrat Ahmad [as] as a Muslim and, therefore, he was the one to represent the Muslims on the occasion.

The debate, as stated before, took place from 22nd May 1893 to 5th June 1893. It was held at the residence of Rev. Dr. Henry Martin Clarke. All the papers that were written by both the sides were signed by the co-chairmen of the occasion.

whoever

of the two sides

At a certain stage (on 26th May) the Christian representative presented three people - a blind person, a lame person and a dumb person and asked Hadhrat Ahmad [as] to heal them. The Christians thought this was their trump card, but it proved to be a boomerang.

Hadhrat Ahmad [as] said that he did not have to show any such miracle, for, he did not believe that that was what Jesus [as] did. Of course, the Christian representative should perform this miracle, for that is the sign of the least faith that a Christian is expected to have. Jesus [as] has said that if you have faith you will remove the evil spirits and you will heal the sick. As soon as the Christians heard this, they took away those three persons stealthily.

was deliberately telling

untruth and abandoning the

true God and taking a humble human being to be a God, he

would fall into hell within a period of fifteen months

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In his last paper (5th June) Hadhrat Ahmad [as] said that God had told him the previous night - and it was in answer to his fervent prayers - that whoever of the two sides was deliberately telling untruth and abandoning the true God and taking a humble human being to be a God, he would fall into hell within a period of fifteen months - one month for every day of the debate - and he would be extremely humiliated - of course he could be saved of this end, if he turned towards truth.

On the other hand, whoever was on the right and believed in the true God would be honoured.

Hadhrat Ahmad [as] further remarked that when this prophecy would come to pass, the blind would see, the lame would walk and the deaf would hear.

Books of the Promised Messiah [as]

Khutba Ilhamiyya (The Revealed Sermon)

On 11th April 1900, the day of Eid-ul-Adha, Hadhrat Ahmad [as] delivered the sermon in the Arabic language and on his instructions it was noted word for word by Hadhrat Maulvi Nuruddin [ra] and Hadhrat Maulvi Abdul Karim [ra].

Hadhrat Ahmad [as] who knew the nature of this sermon (that it was a revelation), instructed the two of them to ask him at the same time if they missed any word, for, once missed, it would be gone (which meant that he would not be able to repeat it).

The book Khutba Ilhamiyya consists of five chapters. One of these is the Khutba - the revealed one - and the other four chapters were written later on. Because it contains the text of the Khutba, it was named Khutba Ilhamiyya. In this Khutba, Hadhrat Ahmad [as] elucidates on the philosophy of sacrifice. As for the other four chapters of the book, he explains his claim, in the light of the Holy Qur’an and the Hadith.

There is also a supplement which is in the form of a poster or an announcement in connection with the Minarutul Masih.

In it he has explained at some length the aims and objects of the Minaret and has proved that so far as the time factor is concerned, the mosque of the Promised Messiah [as] is the Masjid Aqsa. This announcement was made on 28th May 1900.

remember them in his prayers. On the day of Iduz Zuha, he told Maulvi Abdul Karim [ra] that he had been commanded

by God to say a few sentences in Arabic to a gathering and he thought perhaps it was the gathering of Iduz Zuha that God wanted him to speak to. So Hadhrat Ahmad [as] delivered the sermon in Arabic. At the end of it, and on the request of the gathering, Maulvi Abdul Karim [ra] got up to give an Urdu translation of the Khutba. Hadhrat Ahmad [as] remarked that all the prayers that he had offered the previous day had been accepted and the delivery of Khutba in Arabic was to be a proof of their acceptance. He thanked God that the Khutba had been delivered in Arabic and the prayers had been accepted.

When Maulvi Abdul Karim [ra] was rendering the Khutba into Urdu, Hadhrat Ahmad [as] fell down in prostration for offering thanks to God and when he raised his head up he remarked that he had seen the word ‘Mubarak’ (Blessed) written in red ink and it was an indication of acceptance.

As stated before, the Khutba was delivered on 1lth October 1900, the remaining four chapters were written between May 1900 and October 1902. Thus it can be said that the book in its present form was completed in October 1902.

Hadhrat Ahmad [as] says that he got up to deliver the sermon in Arabic and God the Almighty granted him power from Himself and the words were being uttered by him spontaneously, in a way that did not at all lie in his power. ‘It was like a hidden fountain gushing forth and I did not know whether it was I who was speaking or an angel was speaking through his tongue. The sentences were just being uttered and every sentence was a sign of God for me.’

It is worthy of note that before the Iduz Zuha, Hadhrat Ahmad [as] devoted some time to pray for himself and for his friends. He asked all those who were present at Qadian to give him their names with their addresses so that he could

In one of the chapters written later on, Hadhrat Ahmad [as] discusses the condition of the world and tries to convince his readers that it is actually the need of the time that his advent should have taken place.

This last war with Satan will be fought with the pen and not the sword (The Promised Messiah Tadhkiratush-Shadatain p88) Tariq Magazine September 2010

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