Ismael – Jan – Mar 2023 (English)

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Meet the Team

Chief Editor & Manager: Luqman Ahmed Kishwar

English Editor: Mudabbir Din

Urdu Editor: Farrukh Raheel

Print manager: Touqeer Tanvir

Farukh Arshad

Content manager: Firhaad Ahmed

Creativity & Cover: Talat Syam

Designing Team: Talat Syam (Lead Designer)

Rameez Ahmad Rajput

Nasir Hanif

Proofreading: Sadiq Ahmed

Rabeeb Mirza

What is Ismael Magazine?

By the grace of Allah Ta'ala, Waqifeen-e-Nau are now spread across the globe, many of whom are studying in their respective fields while others have already fulfilled their pledge of dedicating their lives for the Jama’at. There are many who are Missionaries, practising Doctors, Television producers, Architects, Graphic designers, Engineers, Accountants and much more.

Ismael is an international magazine, which was launched in 2012 by Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih the fifthaba specifically for the Waqifeen-e-Nau around the world. At this auspicious occasion, addressing the Waqifeen-e-Nau Huzoor-e-Anwaraba wrote:

“The magazine has been named as “ISMAEL”, which reminds us of the sacrifices made by Hazrat Ismaelas and by Hazrat Hajiraas who spent their lives in a desolate and barren place and instituted exceptional standards of sacrifices for the sake of religion. Likewise, it is expected of every Waqf to uphold the covenant of Waqf (dedication) made by their parents even before their birth, who have in turn themselves reaffirmed the same.”

Waqifeen-e-Nau can contribute by sending articles regarding their respective fields of studies. This magazine is published on a quarterly basis as a platform for the Waqifeen-e-Nau to get in touch and say what they have always wanted to. To subscribe to this magazine, you can contact your National Waqf-e-Nau Secretary. You can also read the magazine online at: www.waqfenauintl.org/resources/ismael

Remember, this magazine is for the Waqifeen-e-Nau, by the Waqifeen-e-Nau. Everyone is welcome to send their articles, contributions and comments. Ismael magazine is the central magazine for Waqifeen-e-Nau from around the globe.

What does Islam say?

Muslims believe that Alcohol is haram. This means that it is forbidden for Muslims to consume, buy or sell alcohol. “O ye who believe! wine and the game of hazard and idols and divining arrows are only an abomination of Satan’s handiwork. So, shun each one of them that you may prosper. Satan desires only to create enmity and hatred among you by means of wine and the game of hazard, and to keep you back from the remembrance of Allah and from Prayer. But will you keep back? (5:91-92)

This quote from the Quran states that consuming alcohol causes enmity and hatred amongst each other. This refers to the lives destroyed by consuming alcohol. Consuming alcohol can lead people to violence, immoral behaviour and much more. This leads to impurity in an individual and leads people away from Allah

and prayer. Allah wants believers to have purity and their mind to be clear so they can pray to Him with sincere intentions. Islam believes that alcohol can have a negative effect on families and individuals. Alcohol is used by individuals to escape from reality and difficulties. However, as Muslims, we should turn to Allah and pray for ease in our difficulties.

Here are some Ahadith related to Islamic views on alcohol:

1. If a large amount of anything causes intoxication, (even) a small amount of it is forbidden.

2. Tariq bin Suwaid asked the Holy Prophetsa about wine and he forbade him. When he told him that he used it only as medicine, the Holy Prophet replied, “It is not a medicine, but is a disease.”

Holy Quran's Emphasis on Cleanliness

The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and hygiene as a fundamental aspect of a healthy and spiritual life. Muslims are encouraged to maintain their bodily and spiritual purity through regular ablution and cleansing. In Chapter 5, verse 7, the Quran states,

''O ye who believe! when you stand up for Prayer, wash your faces, and your hands up to the elbows, and pass your wet hands over your heads, and wash your feet to the ankles.'' This verse highlights the importance of ablution before prayer and emphasizes the significance of cleanliness in worship.

The Quran also instructs Muslims to keep their surroundings clean and pure, as it is said in Chapter 2, verse 61

‘Eat and drink of what Allah has provided, and commit not iniquity in the earth, creating disorder.’ This verse stresses the importance of respecting the environment and avoiding actions that can lead to pollution and harm. Overall, the Quran teaches the value of cleanliness and hygiene as an essential part of a healthy and spiritual life.

Establishing Peace

At a time long, long ago in the Arabian Desert sat a party of Godly men. The world had not seen anyone like them. In a place where war was the norm, they claimed to be the followers of a religion whose very name signifies peace. This was the party of the companions and the Holy Prophet sa often sat between them. On one occasion, he gave the following advice, which would forever serve as a guide for all moral individuals. He said:

“Shall I inform you of something that holds a higher status than fasting, praying and giving charity? Making peace between people”

(Kanz-al-Ummal, Hadith no. 5480)

The topic of this article is establishing peace in the world. Peace rarely exists in the world today. We do not have to look far to see the restlessness of the world whether it be Ukraine and Russia in Europe or in Syria in the Middle East. But what is the cause of all this lack of peace? Well, Our Beloved Huzoor (may Allah be his Helper) answered this question in a

beautiful manner. He stated that peace is actually of two kinds: inner peace and outer peace. Often, people appear to be happy due to having the provisions of this world yet none of this can afford them any contentment of heart. On the other hand, there are others who are so poor that they cannot afford basic necessities. Hence people may be poles apart in terms of their material state, but they are united in their failure to attain inner-contentment.

This materialistic mindset leads mankind into a never-ending spiral of discontentment and more importantly takes them very far from their Creator. When we start to believe that we can usurp the wealth of others for our personal gain and when charity is given for praise and for display rather than piety, then the current condition of the world is exactly what we deserve. To top it all off, places of worship become emptier by the day, atheism is on the rise and irreligiosity is considered fashionable. How can we separate ourselves from Allah, the only Being that truly loves and cares for us, and ex -

pect any form of peace?

It is only true closeness to Allah the Almighty that can ensure both inner and outer peace. There is no better example than the Holy Prophet sa and his companions. Was it not the Holy Prophet sa who was inflicted the most inhumane persecution? Were his companions like Hazrat Bilal ra not dragged around the streets of Mecca? Were they not forced out of their homes? Did they not lose their lives for the sake of faith?

However, after all this suffering, were they not the ones who united all women, blacks, non-Arabs and slaves under the umbrella of Islam? How did they achieve all this? It was due to the flame of the love of Allah the Almighty that continued to burn in their hearts. This flame spurred them on, and it was this fire that gave their

hearts complete peace. In the space of a few years, although they gave everything up, the inner peace they gained caused a revolution of peace in the whole world. Where the people of our time despise migrants, the Holy Prophet sa established a brotherhood between the Ansar (residents of Madina) and Muhajirin (migrants from Mecca), giving us a key lesson: to establish peace we must be selfless and ever ready to sacrifice everything that we own. The only thing that can make us do so is the flame that these magnificent men possessed in their hearts, a love for Allah Almighty that increased day by day. This holds greater importance for us than anyone else as we have pledged, just like the companions of the Holy Prophet sa that we will also be ever ready to do what it takes to establish peace all over the world.

God is Coming with His Army

Every individual is led by a set of beliefs that shapes their worldview and guides their actions. With information constantly at our fingertips, it can be easy to form such beliefs based on emotions or popular opinion rather than sound evidence. However, true belief can only be achieved through careful consideration. This is the very detail that differentiates a true religion from one that is false.

This is the very reason that Allah the Almighty revealed to the Promised Messiahas that God is Coming by his Army meaning that God is coming with a host of reasoning and arguments.

The origin of creation is a discussion that many philosophers throughout history have attempted to tackle. If we deny God’s role as a Creator, more questions arise than are answered. Did we come into existence by mere chance that our existence was just as likely as our non-existence? If so, there is no meaning to life, no eternal truth, no right no wrong.

It doesn’t stop there, you see denial in God follows denial of the hereafter, and thus rewards the criminal and the peacemaker with the same end: death.

So what ultimate value do the lives of Hitler or Martin Luther King Jr. really have? This is the bleak conclusion that results from belief in atheism.

However, let’s turn the page for a minute, If there are some external factors at play, if God truly exists, then what is the purpose of creation? If there is a hereafter, if there is divine justice then it is only right that we are informed. To punish one without laying down the rules would be baseless.

Brothers, this is the very reason every prophet was sent with signs and arguments to prove their truthfulness and it was through these divine scriptures and prophets that God manifested himself on earth and gave mankind a reason to believe.

God didn’t expect mankind to accept Him without reason, because the reality is that, belief without reason becomes superstition and action without basis becomes a ritual.

This form of belief is one of the facets that Islam came

to dispel, when the Holy Prophetsa would preach to the Kuffar (disbelievers), they would reject simply by expressing that it went against their forefathers.

And when it is said to them, ‘Follow that which Allah has sent down,’ they say: ‘Nay, we will follow that wherein we found our fathers.’ What! even if their fathers had no sense at all and no guidance?

(Chapter 2:171)

On the other hand, the Quran teaches us to think critically and warns us about such blind faith by stating:

And follow not that of which thou hast no knowledge. Verily, the ear and the eye and the heart — all these shall be called to account.

(chapter 17:37)

It was on this principle that the Promised Messiahas received this revelation that God is coming by his army, This was a divine promise of God’s support that if anyone came to face him, they would be humbled by the sword of reasoning and argument.

Brothers, the mission that the Promised Messiahas was faced with was an impossible task. This man who lived in a small village in India was not part of a prominent family, was unknown and had no money yet he was tasked with reviving the message of Islam. What he was to propagate went against every single set of beliefs. Who he once saw as friends quickly became foes. Even some he considered family turned their backs on him.

Brothers, he was faced with hostility from every class, every people and every religion. Such a man should’ve surely been destined to fail, But Brothers, he swam against the tide and succeeded. Why? Because he had the truth, he had God and with him, His army.

A Warner came unto the world, but the world accepted him not; yet God shall accept him and demonstrate his truthfulness with mighty assaults.

He became a manifestation of the verse

And say, ‘Truth has come and falsehood has vanished away. Falsehood does indeed vanish away fast.’ (Chapter 17:82)

This prophecy that ‘God is coming by his army’ was revealed to the Promised Messiahas when opponents of Islam had desecrated the Quran out of pure animosity. Allah the Almighty reassured the Promised Messiahas that these people may be blind to the truth but it is you who will succeed because God and His army are by your side.

A Warner came unto the world, but the world accepted him not; yet God shall accept him and demonstrate his truthfulness with mighty assaults.

(Tadhkirah, page 128)

Even today we see such attacks against Islam, copies of the Quran desecrated in countries such as Norway and Sweden. But these attacks give us proof of an All-Powerful living God. However despite all attempts, the teachings of the Quran can never be erased. And despite all efforts, the progress of the Jama‘at cannot be haltered. Our truthfulness lies in our success, for Ahmadiyyat is the fastest growing sect of the fastest growing religion in the world and our Jama‘at is the living embodiment of this prophecy that God is coming by His army.

Hazrat Musleh Maudra on Education

Is he who prays devoutly to God in the hours of the night, prostrating himself and standing, and fears the Hereafter and hopes for the mercy of his Lord, like him who does not do so? Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who know not?’ Verily, only those endowed with understanding will take heed.

(The Holy Quran 39:10)

This article will be in regards to some aspects of the amazing life of the Promised son, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmadra Khalifatul Masih II, revolving around education and his focus on the students of Jama’at.

In January 1886, the Promised Messiahas travelled to Hoshiarpur under divine instructions and spent forty days under intense worship. He was given the glad tidings of a son. A sign for all people. Some of the qualities mentioned in the divine promise was that - He would be extremely intelligent and understanding, and will be meek of heart and will be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge.

As prophesied by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa, the Promised Messiahas and his progeny were to revive the true teachings of Islam in every aspect and enlighten the world with the true meaning of gaining knowledge from the cradle till the grave. Now if we take a look at the early days of the Promised Son, we learn that he was taught by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I from an early age who was renowned for his knowledge and excellence throughout India. Where he would permit other students to ask questions, giving them detailed replies, he would not permit Hazrat Sahibzada Sahib the same right. One reason for this may have been that

he considered Hazrat Sahibzada Sahib to be so brilliant that with some thought he could arrive at the answer himself. The second reason seems to be that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira considered attainment of Quranic knowledge to depend more upon God’s Grace than mere effort. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira was convinced that this child would learn the Holy Quran under God’s own stewardship and guidance. Initially, Hazrat Sahibzada Sahib felt that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira treated him harsher than the other students. However, the reason for this distinction slowly began to dawn on him. Hazrat Sahibzada Sahib himself recalls:

“…Hence, teaching me in this fashion, he stated, ‘whatever knowledge Nooruddin possessed he has taught it.’ There was a subtle point hidden in this statement. A Muslim is only required to read the translation and understand it thoroughly. The rest of the knowledge comes through God-given insight. For that, one must make the necessary effort and seek it from Allah. If I had written down all I was taught by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira then where would I have found the answers to all these objections that are being raised against Islam? Was he to live forever? No! For this reason, he taught me this formula

which was to prove useful even after his death.”

On another occasion he stated:

“Allah the Almighty has now blessed me with so much knowledge … but it was he who created a relish and craving for the Holy Quran and he set me on the right course concerning its commentary. And He laid such foundations upon which I was able to build a structure. For this reason, I always

“Whatever knowledge Nooruddin possessed he has taught it.”

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira

consciously pray for him.”

And we are witnesses of the structures he built upon these foundations. And it was this formula that he inculcated into the hearts and minds of the students of this Jama’at. At one occasion, he stated that students have the same right to meet him as anyone else does, and that they should come and discuss things with him. He then went on to say that students should get used to paying attention to detail themselves. Remember, just merely reading a book isn’t enough, but if you find that the book is lacking something, it is your duty to complete whatever its lacking. In other words, he wanted people to read between the lines and not just be satisfied with what was provided. Rather, to dig deeper and find new things that may have been left out….

He states ‘Alas! Turn towards knowledge with your full will, and present new findings to the world. And remember to be familiar with what is new and needed in this age. Look at the Promised Messiahas. His Holiness had no education in the worlds eyes but if one studies his publications then you can see the sheer amount of knowledge he uncovers. They are according to the world’s needs. You should do the same and bear in mind this day and age and study the publications of European Authors and analyse how they think. If you begin to work in this way, then you will see how Allah the Almighty will bless your efforts. He further stated that remember this! That your books will only truly be beneficial when Christian authors will write that the problems we are facing right now, the answer to them are in these books.

Hazrat Musleh Maudra wanted his people to leave a scholarly mark on this earth. Something they would be remembered by for centuries to come.

He stressed to the youth that they should revive the tradition of publicising knowledge in the Jama’at and think of ways to remove any of our weaknesses, and devise such schemes that if they were to be acted upon, the Jama’at would progress. He said they were the future of the Jama’at and gave the example that their teacher is of 50 years and they are 30 years old. In 20 years’, time the same burden will be put upon their shoulders. If they do not prepare as of now, then when they are 50 and they come face to face with reality, their hearts will tremble just as his did.

In 1944 he addressed the Jama’at and urged people to take on learning new languages. He stated that day by day we are getting closer to the Jihad of preaching and the time of concern is fast approaching. There are nine main languages that are renowned and known across the globe as not just being a mother tongue but as a language that is spoken in several countries.

These were Arabic, English, Russian, German, Dutch, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. If we want to preach in the world, then it is compulsory that we know these languages so that we can make the Jama’at’s literature available in these languages.

At another occasion he said that to attain the best fruits from our efforts, man must acquire such an employment that will prove beneficial for him, his people and for mankind in this day and age and which he has the strength to carry out as best as possible. So, in essence it was not only about the person, but about the people. Not just about what you enjoyed doing. But rather what you would be able to carry out to its peak.

Furthermore, he stated that you should

ponder deeply and discuss with me thereafter what conclusion you have drawn as to how the youth can be of assistance to the nation and its people. His target wasn’t just to create knowledgeable and literate members of the community but rather to shape the minds of the youth to help and be of assistance to the nation and its people…

But as well as all this, he always brought the topic back to its original form which was that nothing was possible without Gods help. He said as well as worldly efforts, prayers are key and stated that the Promised Messiahas has a revelation where God Almighty said if all of mankind was to turn away, I can assist you from beneath the ground or from up above. He emphasised that to take full advantage of this blessing was only possible through prayer.

Hazrat Musleh Maudra also addressed the people that had completed their studies and gave valuable advice on where to go and what was needed at the time. First and foremost, his aim was for people to give as much assistance to Islam Ahmadiyyat as possible. He even explained that he desired for there to be a Murabbi in a radius of every mile or so. He also stressed that after finishing studies, it was wrong to think that you are done. He said “Our youth should always keep this in mind that in this day and age, relaxation is the death of you. Whoever stops will end himself or push himself back. After finishing their studies, they should not even think for a minute that maybe this is the time for their relaxation. They should know that it’s not the time to relax but it is the time to work.”

But as well as studying and gaining knowledge and working hard, he also cared about the well-being and health

of his people.

In February 1920, he delivered a speech in Lahore addressing men, ladies and the students of Lahore.

He stated:

“The child who does not play in his days of being a student. He is in vain. Physical exercise should even be carried on after the days of studies are over to ensure a healthy life. I became this ill because of my work load and not being able to do any physical exercise. No matter how much work there was, the Promised Messiahas always used to go on walks. Sometimes even twice a day, morning and evening. By going against this practise of his, I damaged myself greatly.”

Then in June 1942 he stated that I have mentioned many times to the youth that they should practise such activities that will be useful to them in the future. For example, Running, extinguishing fires, escaping from fires, jumping from heights, swimming, these activities are such that make you more masculine and they will come in use later in your life. He also mentioned that a person with a sharper sense of smell, sharper hearing and sight are able to do much more than a normal person.

Hazrat Musleh Maudra took a brief review of this and no one answered in the positive so Huzoor said, if all the work is at zero then what work has actually been done? If what the Imam said has not been done, then all that has been done is equivalent to zero as well.

With Hardhsip Comes Ease

Blood, tears, anger and a party of believers scattered like dying leaves on an autumn day. Some covered in blood and others exhausted. Desperation and disbelief had prevailed. Many believed that the man and the mission that they were promised would last forever, had been obliterated. However, five years later the same men accompanied by their beloved master march on to complete the greatest conquest in the history of mankind. Brothers, I am referring to the rise of the Muslims, all the way from the battle of Badr to the grand victory of Mecca. If there is anything that this inspiring account tells us, it is that with every adversity there is contentment, with every distress there is comfort and with every hardship comes ease.

This verse is best optimised by the one on whom it was revealed. Our Holy Prophetsa, is the best of mankind, the most beloved to Allah Almighty. He could have accumulated all the comforts and riches of the world but so deeply were the words of Allah ingrained in his heart, that he chose to live a life of hardship because he knew that Allah Himself would be his ultimate reward.

If we take a brief glance at the life of the Holy Prophetsa we see that he was but an orphan in a society that discarded them. He traversed the lands in deep anguish at the state of the world. He had no person to rely on and no stable means of income. It was exactly at such a time when God bestowed prophethood upon him. It was in this state that he challenged the idol worshipping majority of Arabia. These people were not bound by any moral code of conduct. He was boycotted by his family, doubted by his people and turned out of his home.

The Promised Messiahas faced similar difficulties. He too was sent to a society that had lost its moral compass. Just like the Holy Prophetsa launched a

campaign against idolatry all by himself, so too did the Promised Messiahas challenge the major faiths of the world to compete with him at a time when he had no material power!

But lo and behold, is it not a sign of the great success of the two Prophets of Allah that we are convened in this hall today? Whilst they were alone in the very beginning, now they have millions of followers around the world, who are ready to fulfil their very mission. Yes, they may have felt alone at some points but now, as they recline in the company of their Beloved, their mission continues to this day.

These are not merely tales of the past. God Almighty’s words are always filled with wisdom and apply to all times. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba is a living example in this regard. One aspect of Huzoor’s life that strikes me is that after spending a substantial amount of time serving in Africa under tremendously dire and difficult circumstances. Upon returning to his homeland Pakistan, Huzooraba was imprisoned in the way of Allah. Upon being asked how he felt at that time? Huzoor responded that in jail, he was more than ready to have spent the remainder of his life there solely for the sake of Allah. Now see for yourself, God Almighty Who knew the passion he concealed in his heart and Who saw that His servant was wholeheartedly accepting hardship for His sake anointed him with the mantle of Khilafat.

To merely listen to faith inspiring accounts and be touched for a moment or two is not end and whilst every night is followed by daylight, both are stuck in a never ending cycle. But the hardship borne for the sake of Allah leads us to an eternal feeling of ease. When you have Him, no hardship is too difficult to bear.

WOMEN IN ISLAM

Can the human body function without a rib cage?

Is it not universally accepted that it provides protection to the heart and lungs, without whom life is not possible?

Man learns many things from the processes of nature. It is with this concept in mind that the Holy Prophetsa stated that women have been created from a rib, if you try to straighten it, it will snap but if you let it keep its shape it will be very beneficial for you. Hence the topic for this article is the status of women in Islam.

Let’s go back 1400 years before the advent of the Holy Prophetsa and take a look at how women were treated. Their rights only went as far as choosing their husbands, after this they had no rights at all; whereas a man was unrestricted in the number of wives he could keep.

Girls were seen as a burden and some would even bury them alive. This was the inhumane tradition of the Arabs against their women.

Comparing the status of women then and now, we see a colossal difference. Women are free to work, vote, divorce and enjoy many more rights than ever before.

Whilst Islam gave women the right to vote 1400 years ago, women in the UK were given this just over a 100 years ago.

Something as basic as having the right to divorce was granted to them as recently as 1937 whilst Islam also categorically gave them this right much earlier!

Does this not show how Islam was so ahead of its time, and how it protected women from the very onset?

Islam was the religion which prevented women and children from being slain in warfare, whereas in other religions no such exception was made!

The West, ‘leaders of the free world’, who have made it a habit to ridicule Islam, such as France banning the hijab, do not need to look too far back into their own history to realise that the very teachings they vilify today are the ones they have been forced to follow.

From its inception, Islam has always laid great emphasis on the importance of women in society.

An example of this is Hazrat Khadijara, the

blessed wife of the Holy Prophetsa. She accompanied the Holy Prophet for 25 years through thick and thin. She was one of the very first people to accept Islam and was his companion in times of opposition. Then we have the example of Hazrat Aishara. Having married the Holy Prophetsa at a very young age, she spent most of her youth in this blessed marriage.

When asked about the behaviour of the Holy Prophetsa, She replied: “He excelled all men in gentle speech and temperament.”

What an astonishing display of how Islam has commanded women to be treated! Our beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V very beautifully said the following words: “Those men who are harsh in their treatment of their wives should always be mindful of being kind towards them, as woman has been created from the rib.

What a beautiful example this is. Two very important organs, the heart and lungs, are caged within the ribs and prevents them from being harmed.

Hence, the status of a woman is such that social life cannot breathe without her and beating pure hearts are under her protection.”

Now, is there any religion that has elevated the status of women so high?

Islam shows through its teachings that without fair treatment of women, society would be left without a heartbeat and what use is a body without a beating heart? Hence, no people can succeed unless they treat their women with respect.

The Holy Prophetsa said that whoever has three daughters and treats them well; they will be a shield for him from the hell fire. How beautifully does this Hadith reiterate the concept of women being protectors? Not only are they protectors of society but they also provide shelter to men from Hell. In an age where women still strive for equality, does Islam not give them superiority in this respect? Thus, it is Islam and only Islam that has given women an incomparable status in society. And that too in an era when women were deemed no more than commodities and there will never be any creed or faith that will be able to rival it.

May Allah the Almighty enable us to truly understand the status of women and follow the blessed footsteps of the Holy Prophetsa.

ASK A MURRABI

HUMAYON JAHANGEER KHAN

Humayon Jahangeer khan. 29 years of age.

Father of 3. Avid sportsperson.

1. What inspired you to apply for Jamia ?

For me, growing up in Islamabad, UK, was the biggest reason. Living in an environment of families who had dedicated their lives to the Jama‘at showed me a side to life that I naturally felt an affiliation to. Having a mosque as the centre point of our daily life kept me grounded in my faith from an early age, and having friends with similar viewpoints and way of life helped me to make the easy decision to go to Jamia.

2. Was there anyone who inspired you to become a Murabbi ?

As I mentioned, living with our elders who all had devoted their lives to the Jama‘at were my role models. Each had qualities which I observed and held as a shining example to emulate in my life. To name a few, Osman Chini Sahib, who, until his very last breath, showed me the importance of Namaz. Relentlessly walking to the mosque by himself in his old age, no matter how long it took him. My father, who has always been able to relate to the youth and always planned events and activities with us, which helped us all to be together on a regular basis. My closest friends who also went to Jamia served as an inspiration, Mustensar Qamar, Zafir Malik, Fatir Tahir, Zulfiqar Abbasi, Raza Saleem Marhoom, and my older brother Nooruddeen.

3. Name three things that you experienced in your time studying in Jamia which changed you as a person.

Meeting Beloved Huzoor for the first time by myself was a really nerve-racking experience which I felt helped me grow closer to my Khalifa. Learning Urdu

helped me to connect to the Promised Messiahas and members of the Jama‘at. It also unlocked a side of me where I could speak and write directly to Beloved Huzooraba in his mother language. And lastly, Jamia removed all the stage fright I used to have which was very important for my self-confidence.

4. Any special memorable moment with Khalifatul-Masihaba which stuck with you?

Honestly, there are too many, Alhamdolillah. We were very fortunate to have many Mulaqaats with Beloved Huzooraba and win many awards in our sports events. But on a personal level, one which sticks out most is Beloved Huzoor attending my wedding while I was still studying at Jamia. I felt like he was my father who had looked after me during my years in Jamia and now he has helped me take the next biggest step in my life. Bringing my son to him a year later during my last year in Jamia was also an overwhelming feeling. Seeing Huzoor holding my son was a manifestation of all the prayers that Huzoor had done for me and my family.

5. How has studying in Jamia prepared you for your posting?

You gain a vast number of skills, consciously and subconsciously like being a team player, identifying a problem and finding solutions in the Jama‘at you are in. You learn how to be a valued member of a department. Holding firm onto the rope of Khilafat allows you to stay firm on the traditions of the Jama‘at. But I think the number one attribute I learnt from Jamia is what Huzoor said in our convocation, which was to remain loyal to Khilafat, just as Hazrat Ibrahimas was

loyal to Allah the Almighty. That is truly the highest quality you must have to hold on to after Jamia. When you have no authority standing over you, will you read your 5 daily prayers, will you read the Quran regularly.

6. Where are you posted and what is your daily routine?

My postings have varied from field to office over the past 4 years. I gained valuable experiences in the Midlands for over 3 years, serving in Walsall, Wolverhampton, Leamington Spa and Birmingham. From there I was posted to Glasgow, Scotland for 5 months. And currently I am serving in MTA International Online Social Media. My routine involves staying on top of our social media platforms for MTA, having regular meetings with our international teams and studios around the world as well as Developing new and exciting educational websites. I am also working on having daily meetings with the central team. Being at Baitul Futuh allows us to pray together, have the Promised Messiah’sas langar, and also liaise with the other MTA departments.

7. How important is it for a Murrabi to keep in constant contact with KhalifatulMasihaba?

To have our Beloved Imamaa near us physically is a huge blessing but connecting with Huzoor regularly blesses all of our work, it strengthens our conviction for our ideas and gives us that spiritual support when we undertake any task. Having that peace of mind that our

Huzoor is aware of what our department is doing is a hugely satisfying feeling.

8. What are two things that you would advise the current Jamia students around the world?

Broaden your passions by being approachable by all types of people. Keep playing sports because that helps you become a team player.

9. What advice would you give to anyone who wants to join Jamia but is unsure about this life changing decision?

Be firm on your decision if you wish to go the Jamia. Get Huzoor’s guidance and prayers. Ultimately it will be your decision so do your research about what Jamia is, speak to Jamia students and graduates about what is to be expected of you and how to prepare. It is a life changing decision so proper preparation is necessary.

11. Not every Murrabi will be posted near Huzoor. What advice would you give for those Murrabian that are posted far away from Markaz and their families?

One thing which Huzoor says to those posted far away is to use that feeling of missing Huzoor to work even harder. That should be our sole motivation. To remain attached to our Khalifa in a spiritual sense no matter who you are, no matter where you are living. Being physically close to Huzoor does not necessarily mean you will be spiritually close. One must make a conscious effort to have that level of relationship.

KHIDMAT

The Hidden Door to Extraordinary Opportunities

By: Ataul-Karim Gohar Student of Jamia Ahmadiyya Canada

Alhamdulillah, by the Grace of Allah the Almighty, the USA tour of Huzoor Anwaraba was extremely blessed for all of us. We as Jamia students were truly the recipients of a great favour of God upon us who gave us the opportunity to be in the company of Huzoor Anwar in Zion, Dallas, and Maryland.

The week in the city of Zion felt exceptionally historical due to its rich history as a sign of the truth of the Promised Messiahas. Whilst travelling daily to and fro the Mosque, you couldn’t help but have this feeling that this town stands testimony to the victory of the Promised Messiahas over the disgraced Dowie. Seeing some of the landmarks such as the Shiloh House made me ponder over how analogous the case of the Pharaoh being mummified (i.e. preserved) to stand as a sign, is the case of Dr. Alexander Dowie and his defamed town, the pinnacle of which was the Shiloh house – where precisely his house has been preserved from the inside to capture his last days and open to the public to witness firsthand.

Hence, seeing Huzoor Anwar at the Fath-eAzeem Mosque felt all the more special and surreal that the Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas is now stepping in that very town where Dowie had vowed no Muslim could step foot in. The Friday Sermon that Huzoor Anwar delivered was beyond faith inspiring, it gave me goosebumps when Huzoor said that we witnessed one Fath-e-Azeem 115 years ago, and today we are witnessing another Fath-e-Azeem. But then the words that shook me even more and made me realise what our duty is as a servant to the Khalifa was when Huzoor outlined the requirements of reformation needed to our practical conditions so that we may witness the real Fath-e-Azeem which is still to come in the form of the Ultimate Victory of Islam – Insha’Allah!

Despite all of this, there was still this void deep down of not being able to be close to the Khalifa due to the limited access. However we were content because we understood the COVID restrictions and yet we were still blessed enough to be in the presence of Huzoor. Hence this factor played into not wanting to take on too many duties that it might hinder or interfere with our opportunity to pray behind Huzoor in the revered and historically significant Mosque – especially considering that was essentially one of our only limited chances of an interaction or closest point physically to Huzoor.

But that’s what hit me. After a few days, I realised that I had become so tunnel visioned on being close to Huzoor Anwaraba physically that I was depriving myself of the blessings of Khidmat and the boundless prayers Huzoor keeps reciting for volunteers. We hear time and again at every Jalsa that Huzoor Anwar talks about how the volunteers may be far away from him physically, but they are always in his heart. Henceforth, I presented myself for duty in MTA and miraculously – within 24 hours – I got that moment. That moment we all hope and pray for. That golden moment that I too had been longing for. Whereas for the past whole week I

had shouted Salam along with the other hundreds of Ahmadis from behind the barricades 30 meters away, here I was standing all alone within 5 meters of Huzoor. My MTA posting had led to me being in the spot where Huzoor was suddenly about to walk past. My heart skipped a beat, my brain felt numb because I couldn’t believe what my eyes were witnessing, yet the testimony of the eyes never lies. Huzoor was about to walk right past me. My nervous system felt like it was glitching – all the electrical impulses stuck in time immemorial – my mouth left speechless and my body motionless. I was telling myself to say Salam but I just couldn’t – I physically could not do it.

It reminded of the time when Huzoor had come to visit Brisbane, Australia back in 2013. The ticker-tape was running in my mind of when I was 9/10 years old and I was chasing next to Huzoor to say Salam. At the first instance I had tried saying Salam, nothing came out of my mouth and Huzoor walked straight past. So I sprinted again and got to another point to say Salam - but again nothing came out of my mouth albeit a small squeak. I had thought I’d missed my chance again when all of a sudden Huzoor said Walaikum Salam. I was dumbfounded and completely startled that

Huzoor had even understood what I was saying let alone getting that recognition and response; I felt like the happiest child alive. Now with this flashback paramount in my mind, I knew I just had to get a sound out - any sound - and my Khalifa will understand.

And then Huzoor was right across from me; it was either now, or forever hold my regretful silence. It seemed as though the entire universe went quiet, the ground had been prepared and the stage was set, it was like God was inviting me that this is your chance. Hence as if divine intervention was the response to the divine invitation, suddenly something came over me and out of the blue, I mustered all the remaining strength left in my body to the extent that my legs were about to crumble and laboriously – whilst still succumbing to my nervousness and anxiety – said “Assalam-o-Alaikum Piyare Huzoor”.

Huzoor Anwar was looking down and all of a sudden he looked up and gazed directly at me. It was just me and my Khalifa in that moment. Huzoor’s piercingly warm eyes penetrated my soul to the brinks of collapse. I made direct eye contact with Huzoor and Huzoor waved back at me saying Salam. That was a special feeling in itself that Huzoor had said Salam to me and me only, perhaps something we took for granted in times gone by when our access to Huzoor Anwar was so open/free. It makes one ponder about the times to come when hundreds of millions will enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat and will all strive with that same longing for the Khalifatul-Masih. Hence, I felt really blessed that even in this post-COVID restricted atmosphere, I got to witness such a sign. I was just left frozen and mesmerised, I couldn’t speak nor even form thoughts. My heart was feeling numb and my stomach was full of butterflies I didn’t even know existed, making me feel like my guts might spew out; that’s how taken aback I was by the whole scenario.

One may ask why the heightened emotions? After all it was just a regular interaction when compared to some of the exceptional stories we’ve heard in the past? But one has to take into account that we were literally about to leave

Zion and head for Dallas in less than one hour, and this was practically my last chance of an interaction in Zion as well. But it’s God who is the most Benevolent and Master of the Universe who performs such miracles even for the weak, that he bestowed me in that last hour an opportunity I hadn’t gotten all week, and neither could I have gotten it without God’s grace, help, and mercy. It all happened within an hour’s frame that 2 days ago did not even exist, because our plan initially was to leave Saturday morning before the Reception Dinner. It just doesn’t cease to amaze me when I think about the mysterious ways God works and his glorious wonders.

Similarly, I was lucky enough to witness another miraculous marvel of Allah the Almighty which was even more astonishing and phenomenal than the first one. I did not think that my experience in Zion could be surpassed and I was fully content that I had gotten my personal unique moment. It had wiped away the fatigue of the long drives and the tribulations of the weather; all the physical, financial, emotional pain had now been worth it - yet God had other plans. His manifestation of love was just beginning. We were now in Dallas, Texas and the week was coming to a close again. I had a dream a few days prior that I was physically hugging Huzoor Anwaraba but I did not think much of it as I believed that my conscious thoughts had just permeated into my subconscious dreams, and that it did not have any divine connotations.

Hence, despite a wish for this to manifest in the physical realm lingering at the back of my head, I moved on and made no physical progressions myself because I knew everything was running under a strict system especially due to COVID - so it was practically impossible. Nonetheless, I knew that there was only one “Tadbeer’’ that I could do which was to narrate this dream to Huzooraa in a letter.

Only 2 days had passed since this letter had been submitted to Huzoor, and I do not know if Huzoor had read that letter or not but it was God who had already started pulling the strings. It was the day of the Dallas Reception

Dinner and all day, in the tormenting heat, we had been setting up the reception hall for the dinner: fixating the lights, running fiber cables, carrying camera kit, etc. The duty sheet for the event had already been released and it was clear to me that I would not be in the reception hall in the vicinity of Huzoor.

Nonetheless, I had not signed up under the condition that I would only do special jobs, but Khidmat as a whole - wherever it might be. So as I was sitting at the back in the U-Haul truck sizzling away in the heat, tired from the day’s work, and wiping away the sweat; Touqeer bhai (who had come from UK as part of the MTA International team) called me over and randomly asked me to help find him the case full of batteries. I did not think anything special of it and simply obliged in helping him find it but his hands weren’t free so he told me to just follow him. I was extremely confused because I did not remember anything in the reception hall being battery powered, but then suddenly he turned into the Mosque. I was still trying to fathom the situation and merely assumed he had to grab something from the mosque when, much to my surprise, the little foyer area of Bait-ul-Ikram Mosque was being prepared for Dignitaries to meet Huzoor Anwaraa

Anyways, I still thought my sole purpose was to hand over the battery case to him but one thing led to another until all of a sudden Huzoor entered and I found myself behind a camera - stunned to the extent of almost forgetting to even press record (The exact shot angle below). I could not believe it. I was in the same room as Huzoor standing right in front of him and I just couldn’t wrap my head around how blessed I was in that moment. It’s not every day that a random Australian is put behind camera in the presence of Huzoor in a touring country. It made me reflect over my grass root beginnings doing MTA work in a relatively small town of Australia (Logan, Brisbane) and how the blessings of Khidmat from that day on and the

sacrifices made over the years had compounded slowly but surely that Allah the Almighty - for it was Him Who was the real entity behind this whole disposition - had put me on camera in the direct service of Huzoor Anwar. It was truly a sentimental moment that plucked at the deepest chords of heart. Not only was the stress of carrying out my duty paramount in my head, but the fact there was no room for errors with Huzoor right in front of me was making all my pores sweat out profusely. I was trying to act calm and professional but my state on the inside was beyond describable. I had to calm myself down by only looking through the lens of the camera and manipulating a fake aurora on myself that this was just a regular TV frame I was viewing on MTA. But then as soon as I would look up outside of that 3-inch screen, all the stresses would creep back in to the crevices of my soul.

But Allah’s blessings and grace knows no bounds. My experience did not just end there. Despite my thinking Huzoor was now leaving, all of a sudden someone called Huzoor back and said there’s a bit of time left before the start of the dinner. So Huzoor came back and sat down. Now it was just Huzoor, two or three Qafila members and me in that room. I was left mesmerised pondering over if this was even real. Where was the line between reality and wishful thinking? Because I could not seem to discern it. It did not seem viable that I could genuinely just be standing in front of Huzoor in a light-hearted environment while he is casually chatting to a Qafila member.

Then as Huzoor got up to leave, he looked directly at me. Even though during the recording of the VIP Mulaqat, Huzoor had gazed at me, this special look felt different. There was only one other person between me and Huzoor, even all the Hifazat-e-Khas members were standing to the side. It seemed surreal to be able to see Huzoor in such a relaxed and natural environment, the exclusivity of which is so rare for a regular Ahmadi. Deep down I was confused

because it almost felt like Huzoor was advancing towards me and might talk to me. All I had to do was sustain that attention and say Salam; and I really desperately wanted to. It was like a torn force inside of me, the strings teetering against each other - even more so than Zion. The concoction of emotions, the height of passion inside of me at that moment was beyond words - it was a completely different feeling that no description can do justice to. It was quite literally just an empty room and all I had to do was utter Salam, but I just clenched my jaw and kept it in - I thought better of it and decided not to, realising I was on duty and not there for personal purposes. I do not regret my decision because I know Huzoor would have still noticed me and that I did not break the sanctity of the moment and my position.

All in all, I could not be more grateful to Allah

the Almighty who gifted me opportunities I was not even remotely deserving of. It is merely through the sheer blessings of devoting one’s life that I am even present here in the first place; otherwise I would have just been sitting at home in Australia watching what could have been on MTA. There were countless beautiful instances throughout the trip, and these were just two small recounts from only two different days. In reality each new day, each new week, each new location, brought forth its very own new, wonderful, and faith-inspiring moments.

May Allah enable us to continue to benefit from the countenance of our Khalifa so that our faith keeps getting revived and build an unbreakable bond with him, Ameen.

ANNOUNCEMENT FOR ADMISSION TO JAMIA

AHMADIYYA UK 2023

Jamia Ahmadiyya UK will be holding entry test and interview on 04th and 05th July 2023 for this year’s intake of students. The following conditions apply:

Qualifications: Applicants with A-Level qualification will be given preference. Applicants with A-Levels qualification (passing with a minimum B in at least 3 subjects) will be accepted. Applicants applying with GCSEs must obtain grades 8 and 9. BTEC qualification will not be accepted.

Age on Entry: Maximum age of 17 years for students with GCSE or 19 years with A-Levels or equivalent qualifications.

Medical Certificate: The applicants MUST submit a medical certificate from the GP with whom they have been registered.

Written Test and Interview: The applicants will take a written test and will appear before a Selection Board for interview. Only those who pass the written test will be invited for interview.

The written test and interview will be based on the recitation of the Holy Quran, the Waqfe Nau Syllabus, and proficiency in reading, writing and spoken English and Urdu languages. Furthermore, candidates will be judged on their potential of learning and reading the translation of the Holy Quran, Ahadith, the books of the Promised Messiahas as well as religious and general knowledge.

Applications should be addressed to:

THE PRINCIPAL

Jamia Ahmadiyya UK

Branksome Place

Hindhead Road

Haslemere

GU27 3PN

For any further help or clarification, please telephone: +44(0)1428647170 or +44(0)1428647173, +44(0)7988461368(Mob.), Fax: +44(0)1428647188

Jamia is open from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. Visitors are welcome ONLY by prior appointments.

Procedure: Application will ONLY be accepted on the prescribed Admission Form available from the Jamia UK office. Incomplete application form will not be accepted. It must be accompanied by the following documents:

• Application must be endorsed by the National Ameer.

• Medical certificate from the GP.

• Photocopies of the GCSE or A-Level results. If the results are awaited, the candidate must include a letter from his school/ sixth Form tutor about his projected grades.

• Copy of applicant’s passport.

• One passport size photograph.

• An attested photo copy of the birth certificate.

• The spellings of the name must be the same as in the passport.

LAST DATE: The application for the 2023 entry MUST arrive by 30th May 2023. Applications received after that will not be considered.