Khuddam from USA’s New York Region receive guidance from Huzoor on spirituality and practical life
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Islam’s solution to the loneliness epidemic
100 Years Ago... ‘Ahmadiyyat is the only hope for Islam’: Sir Edward Denison Ross (1871-1940)
‘Prayer is our only weapon’ Huzoor re-emphasises the importance of du‘a amidst persecution
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The passing of Pope Francis means two Christian denominations are without a leader right now – the Anglicans, where Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, resigned some months ago, and the Roman Catholics, who lost their pontiff earlier today. (“Statement from the Archbishop of Canterbury”, www.archbishopofcanterbury. org, 12 November 2024)
At a time when leadership crisis is one of, if not the most, concerning issues facing the world, this is undoubtedly a challenging time for the Vatican. Realising how vital the matter of religious leadership is, we hope they will be able to successfully navigate through the procedures and protocols of choosing their leader.
Through the example of its leaders, the Ahmadiyya community knows that, despite religious differences, one can still wish well for people of other faiths on a humanitarian plane. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, the head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, wrote a letter to Pope Francis when he assumed the office of papacy back in 2013. In a detailed letter, he wrote:
“I hope and pray that in the forthcoming era the Pope uses his influence to develop peace and harmony in the world. There is a great need to join together upon our common teachings and particularly upon the Unity of God.” (“World Muslim Leader congratulates Pope Francis and Catholic Church”, www.pressahmadiyya.com, 14 March 2013)
This is in line with the Quranic teaching of calling the Ahl al-Kitab (People of the Book) to common grounds to resolve mutual conflicts and misunderstandings. (Surah Aal-e-`Imran, Ch.3: V.65)
In the same letter, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa referred to what he had written to Pope Francis’ predecessor:
“In my letter to [Pope Benedict XVI] I also requested him to use his great influence to bring the people of the world together towards peace, reconciliation and mutual understanding and to strive to prevent the world from destruction. I send the same message to the new Pope as well.” (“World
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Muslim Leader congratulates Pope Francis and Catholic Church”, www.pressahmadiyya. com, 14 March 2013)
In the autumn of 2022, two Ahmadi missionaries had a private audience with Pope Francis during his visit to his homeland, Argentina. One of them, Marwan Gill, wrote in his report for Al Hakam:
“After giving [the Pope] a detailed background of our Jamaat, we introduced to him the magnificent work of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa as a worldwide ambassador of peace. We presented the Pope with an Italian translation of the book World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace. We also
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Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
Shortening the prayer for a crying child
Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrated, that “The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘I sometimes begin the prayer intending to prolong it, but when I hear a child crying, I shorten the prayer, knowing the anguish his mother feels because of his crying.’”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-adhan, Bab man akhaffa s-salata ‘inda buka’i s-sabiyy, Hadith 709)
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words
The meaning of trust in God
Those people who trust in their own power and strength, and forsake God Almighty, do not meet with a good end. This does not mean that trust in God is to sit on one’s hands and do nothing. To make use of means and to employ the faculties which God Almighty has granted us is also a manner in which we show gratitude to God. Those people who do not make use of their abilities and only verbally claim that they trust in God speak falsehood. Such people do not appreciate God. In fact, they test God and essentially suggest that the faculties and powers granted by Him are futile. In this manner, they are disrespectful and insolent towards God. They become distanced from the essence of
(Thee alone do we worship) and do not act upon it, yet desire to see the results of
(Thee alone do we implore for help) fulfilled in their favour. This is not right. Insofar as possible, and to the extent of one’s ability, an individual ought to make recourse to means, but must not deem them to be his god and the resolver of his difficulties. On the contrary, man must first exhaust these avenues and then hand the matter over to Allah; he must offer prostrations of gratitude, thanking the very same God for having conferred upon him these faculties and strengths in the first place.
(Malfuzat
A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat
25 April 2006: On this day, during his visit to the Far East, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived at the Nadi Airport in Fiji, which is called the edge of the world. Huzooraa was interviewed by a correspondent for a national TV station. Delegations from neighbouring countries like Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, etc. also came to receive Huzooraa. (Al Fazl International, 9 June 2006, pp. 1-2)
26 April 1984: On this day, the infamous dictator of Pakistan,
General Zia-ul-Haq, issued Ordinance XX, which made it unlawful for Ahmadis to engage in any kind of Islamic practice, from modes of worship to dress code, from greetings to using any terms that were Islamic and it also included not having Muslim names.
Khalifatul Masih Vaa granted an audience to the then-president of Fiji. In the evening, Huzooraa addressed a reception held in his honour at the capital city of Suva’s central hotel, which was attended by various dignitaries as well. (Al Fazl International, 9 June 2006, pp. 9-10)
28 April 1888: On this day, the Promised Messiahas wrote a reply to the letter of Maulvi Imamuddin
Sahib of Montgomery (present-day Sahiwal, Pakistan), rebutting his view concerning heavenly books.
On his day, in addition to other engagements, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa attended a reception in the evening to which the country’s political, diplomatic and higher judicial and administrative officials were invited. (Al Fazl International, 13 May 2005, pp. 8-9)
This Maulvi Sahib was of the notion
To read more, see: ‘‘The Ahmadi Muslims of Pakistan: A loyal community under siege since 1974’’ at alhakam.org (13 September 2024, pp. 6-7).
27 April 2006:
On this day, during his tour of Fiji, Hazrat
that heavenly books still needed to be practised, even after the revelation of the Holy Quran. (Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 1, pp. 410-412)
28 April 1970: On this day, during his visit to Ivory Coast, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III
Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 26, p. 54)
which was graced by the presence
28 April 2005: On this day, the 40th Jalsa Salana of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Kenya commenced. This was historic, as it was the first Jalsa Salana of Kenya, of any Khalifatul Masih. The vice president of the country also addressed the inaugural session of the . The attendance was five
times more than the previous year.
29 April 2005: On this day, during the proceedings of Jalsa Salana Kenya of 2005, while Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa was present, there was heavy rainfall in the evening of the last day of jalsa
The guests of the jalsa spent the night awake with great patience. The jalsa was relocated in a very short time and the Friday sermon was broadcast live from Kenya. (Al Fazl International, 13 May 2005, p. 5)
29 April 2006: During his visit to Fiji, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa visited the Ahmadiyya School in Narare Town. He also visited the Ahmadiyya College in the same city. (Al Fazl International, 9 June 2006, pp. 11-13)
a state in India. During this tour, Huzoorra left Qadian on 19 April and returned to Qadian on 14 May and visited Mansoori, Dehradun, Delhi, Malirkotla and Ludhiana. Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat reports that during this trip, Huzoorra had to stay awake until three in the morning and remain busy with religious and national activities, like presiding over Jalsas, meeting with local Ahmadis and guiding their attention towards the tarbiat matters. During his stay in Delhi, Huzoorra met with Khwaja Hassan Nizami. Al Fazl reported among his many engagements that on 31 May, a public jalsa was held in Islamia School Mansoori, presided over by Khan Bahadur Zill-e-Hussain Sahib, Honorary Magistrate. Hindus, Muslims and many other people attended in huge numbers. Huzoorra spoke for nearly two hours on the Hindu-Muslim relations, the need for their reformation and the reasons for the disputes between these two nations. This was very much appreciated by the attendees. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5 pp. 273-275)
30 April 1902: On this day, the Promised Messiahas replied to Hazrat Maulvi Abdullah Sanaurira that chanda of 30 rupees and 7 annas from him had been received. Huzooras plainly articulated that during the ongoing pandemic of the plague, deaths of some members of the Jamaat may occur, but these men would be considered shaheed [martyrs] and these deaths would not surge as total devastation and would not shroud the Jamaat in sheer despair. (Maktubat-e-Ahmad, Vol. 3, p. 238)
1 May 1947: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a speech, titled “Hindustani uljhanon ka aasaan tareen hal” – A simple solution to the problems of India. During this speech, Huzoorra advocated that the people of India deserved the right to determine their future themselves, instead of the foreigners deciding it unilaterally and said that since freedom is the birthright of everyone, Indians also hold the same right.
Musleh-e-Maud
30 April 1931: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled from Mansoori to Dehradun, now the interim capital of Uttarakhand,
For more details, see: “Freedom is the birthright of everyone: Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad’sra guidance regarding India’s independence and partition”, at alhakam.org, (3 June 2022, Issue 220, pp. 18-19).
During his Friday sermon, delivered on 18 April 2025, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, underscored the paramount importance of fervent supplication, particularly for the Ahmadis in Pakistan, addressed doubts regarding the sufficiency of du‘a by reaffirming it as the believer’s essential weapon and reported a recent tragic attack on a mosque in Karachi, resulting in a martyrdom. He said:
“At this time, I wish to make a special appeal for prayers for the Ahmadis in Pakistan. The Pakistani Ahmadis themselves should also pray for themselves and, as I have urged previously, focus on reciting durood. Specifically, recite the following 200
times [every day]:
“[‘Holy is Allah, and worthy of all praise; Holy is Allah, the Great. O Allah, shower blessings upon Muhammadsa and the people of Muhammadsa’]
“At this present time, the utmost attention should be devoted to this. Success will only be achieved if we focus on du‘a, fulfilling the requirements thereof. The level of attention that ought to be given is currently lacking. Merely stating – and some people even write to me saying, ‘Prayer alone will achieve nothing; something else must be
done’ – well, what is this ‘something else’ that ought to be done? Our only weapon is prayer. I have spoken on this matter numerous times and have also presented excerpts from the writings of the Promised Messiahas. It is a gravely mistaken notion to think that ‘nothing will come of prayers’.
“In any case, prayers are indeed the key to our success. May Allah the Exalted grant everyone the ability for this and may we become among those who truly fulfil the requirements of du‘a. If we merely claim that ‘nothing comes from prayer’, whilst failing to fulfil its requirements, then this constitutes an unjust complaint that we would be lodging against Allah the Exalted. Therefore,
we should also seek forgiveness for this.
“Today, an incident also occurred in Karachi; rioters, terrorists – who [commit such acts] supposedly in the name of Islam, but are nothing but terrorists – attacked our mosque and martyred an Ahmadi.
“[‘Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.’]
“The full details of this incident have not yet been received. When they become available, they will be shared, insha’Allah May Allah the Almighty swiftly bring about the means to seize these oppressors.’ [Amin.]
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presented him with the letter that Hazrat Khaliftul Masih Vaa had specifically written for this audience. The Pope received the letter with great respect and acknowledged gratitude for this gesture of Huzooraa.” (“Ahmadi Muslim missionaries meet Pope Francis, who pays homage to Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad”, www.alhakam.org, 4 November 2022)
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa had previously written a special message for Pope Benedict XVI, delivered to him personally by Mohammad Sharif Odeh, the president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in the Holy Land. Part of the message read: “It is with regret that if we now observe
the current circumstances of the world closely, we find that the foundation for another world war has already been laid. As a consequence of so many countries having nuclear weapons, grudges and enmities are increasing and the world sits on the precipice of destruction. “I believe it is essential, that we urgently increase our efforts to save the world from this destruction. There is an urgent need for mankind to recognise its Creator as this is the only guarantor for the survival of humanity.” (“World Muslim leader sends Message of Peace to Pope Benedict”, www. ahmadiyyauk.org, 1 January 2012)
In the messages above, we see that Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, introducing the emphasis on societal peace, invited the Pope, leader of around one billion people around the world, to play his role in global peacebuilding through the common grounds of major world faiths.
Going just over a hundred years back in history, we see that such efforts by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community remained an integral part of its peacebuilding campaign, highlighting a rich legacy for interfaith harmony in the light of Islamic teachings.
En route to England in 1924, the second head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra stopped over in Rome. While there, he expressed his desire to meet Pope Pius XI. The request was declined, stating that, owing to the refurbishment of the papal offices underway, such a meeting was not possible.
Press reporters, by the likes of La Tribuna, interviewed Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra and asked about what he had intended to do during the meeting, had it taken place. He replied by saying that since the Pope is a noble
man, he would have offered the Pope a gift befitting his status and position – the gift of an invitation to Islamic teachings. This meeting, however, could not take place, but the message must have reached the Pope through the press.
Going even further back, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, had invited Queen Victoria, the then head of the Church of England, to the message of Islam. He urged her to organise a conference of world religions in London, the heart of the British Empire, where all faiths could present their teachings in their true form – a dire need at a time when interfaith conflicts had left all religions mystified through the fog of propaganda, slander, and misinformation.
The conference could not happen before 1924 when the then head of the Ahmadiyya community, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin
Mahmud Ahmadaa travelled all the way from India to London with the message of “Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam”.
Similarly, Justin Welby, the (now former) Archbishop of Canterbury, visited Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa at the London secretariat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in October 2017.
We wish that the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church around the world are able to choose a leader who can lead them through the most challenging times – challenging not only for both the denominations but the world at large.
We end this piece with a hope and prayer that world faiths can soon come together under one banner and strive for global peace and harmony – a call made by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa
On Monday, 14 April 2025, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, met with a delegation of khuddam from the New York Region of the USA at Islamabad, Tilford, UK.
As the mulaqat commenced, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa greeted the attendees. The khuddam then had the opportunity to introduce themselves individually. Following the introductions, they sought guidance from Huzoor-e-Anwaraa on a range of issues.
A khadim asked about the etiquette of seeking forgiveness if one has wronged another person, enquiring when one should cease seeking forgiveness from the individual and focus solely on seeking forgiveness from Allah the Exalted. Huzooraa counselled:
“Why should you speak wrongly or unjustly with somebody? You should show good morals. Being an Ahmadi, you should behave like a gentle, kind person. It is not the behaviour of an Ahmadi to speak wrongly or unjustly to somebody. But whenever you come to realise that you have done something wrong and you were not right, or even you have gone beyond your limits, then you should immediately ask for forgiveness. That pleases Allah and that is what Allah wants from us.”
Dealing with spiritual doubt
Another khadim asked for guidance on how
to cope with spiritual doubt or weakness.
Huzooraa advised:
“The first thing is that you offer five daily prayers and pray to Allah Ta‘ala that Allah Ta‘ala removes all your doubts –whatever comes into your mind. [...] You [should] bow before Allah and [when] you are in sajdah position or in ruku‘, ask for forgiveness from Allah Ta‘ala and ask Allah Ta‘ala that He should guide you on the right path. Whenever you are reciting Surah alFatihah, you should repeatedly recite
, i.e., ‘O Allah! Guide me on the right path.’ And, apart from that, you [should] try to increase your religious knowledge. Read the Holy Quran and try to know the meaning of the Holy Quran. And if possible, read the commentary of the Holy Quran. Then you will know what the teachings of Islam are and how you can come closer to Allah Ta‘ala. Then, apart from that, you should also try to read some religious books, especially the books of the Promised Messiahas and, from that, [find out] how you can be a good person, a religious person. The Promised Messiahas says, I have written a book, Kashti-e-Nuh (Noah’s Ark). You [should] read that one –that will also guide you. So, it all depends on your own effort.”
Guidance was sought by a khadim on overcoming the habit of leaving tasks until the last minute.
Huzooraa noted that this tendency is common, even culturally ingrained for
some, leading to tasks not being completed with proper planning. He mentioned a common Punjabi saying reflecting this habit of doing things hastily at the end, describing it as a “very bad habit.”
Huzooraa advised:
“You should try to get your work done early. You should first know the work that you are required to complete. Write them down in an order of preference so that you know that these are the tasks that need to be completed at such and such time. Once you get into the habit of doing this, then you will naturally get into the habit of completing any necessary tasks on time.”
A young, unmarried khadim asked how to maintain harmony in family relationships while fulfilling spiritual responsibilities.
Huzooraa advised the khadim that he should offer his five daily prayers regularly and remember others in those prayers. He explained that praying for others helps develop a softer and more compassionate attitude towards them, including one’s siblings and it also fosters a deeper respect for one’s parents. Therefore, he emphasised the importance of praying for such sentiments during one’s supplications.
Huzooraa reminded him that his foremost responsibility was his education. He clarified that pursuing education was not a favour to anyone else, but rather a step towards building a better future for himself. He further advised that if, while studying,
his younger siblings disturbed him, he should not become upset; instead, he should quietly move to another room and continue his studies in peace. Huzooraa highlighted that all of this ultimately depended on how well one could manage and control their emotions.
Huzooraa stated:
“Maintaining a balance means that it is clear to you what your responsibilities are. (You ought to know that) these are your responsibilities pertaining to your studies, these are your responsibilities pertaining to Allah the Exalted, these are your responsibilities pertaining to respecting your parents and these are your responsibilities in dealing with your siblings. Everyone has their due rights, which ought to be fulfilled and you ought to fulfil your due responsibilities.”
Why do some people continue to commit sins despite praying?
A question was raised about why some people continue to commit sins despite praying regularly, even though salat is meant to prevent indecency.
Huzooraa explained that Allah the Exalted also warns in the Holy Quran that prayers offered improperly, without fulfilling duties to God and fellow beings, will not be accepted and can even take one to hell.
Huzooraa stated that Allah the Exalted requires two key elements for salat to be accepted. Firstly, one must have firm faith that Allah is always watching – that He sees all actions and deeds at all times. Secondly, a person must fulfil the duties owed to their fellow human beings. Huzooraa said that if someone offers salat but behaves unjustly or does not treat others properly, then Allah declares that such prayers will not be accepted because the person is failing in their responsibilities toward others.
He emphasised that Allah the Exalted says that if one is truly offering prayer, they must obey all of His commandments and discharge their duties to fellow human beings. Only then will Allah accept their prayers and respond to their supplications.
Huzooraa reiterated the importance of repeatedly praying
us on the right path”] with concentration and understanding its meaning, fervently asking Allah for guidance towards righteousness.
How to achieve the state of ihsan in worship
Another khadim asked how to practically achieve the level of worship described by the Holy Prophetsa – worshipping Allah as if seeing Him, or at least knowing He sees us. Regarding achieving sincerity and focus [ihsan], Huzooraa referenced the Promised Messiahas, who explained that “establishing prayer” means re-establishing focus whenever the mind wanders during salat. One should continue to repeat the Arabic words and phrases of salat and also supplicate for the ability to offer salat properly.
Huzooraa elaborated on the concept of Allah watching over us: “Allah the Exalted states, ‘My manifestation can be witnessed in that which is visible, ‘which is above, which is below and in the unseen. Thus, I am present everywhere.’ So, if this level of faith has not yet been developed whereby one perceives that Allah the Exalted is everywhere or whereby one perceives that they can see God, one should at the very least believe that Allah the Exalted is watching me. [...] Always think that Allah the Exalted is watching every action of yours. And if Allah the Exalted is watching all of your actions, then this thought naturally comes into one’s mind: that I should not commit such a mistake which displeases Allah the Exalted, whereby I am punished. [...] If one knew that there were ‘CCTV cameras’ [monitoring them], they would not do anything that is wrong. [...] So whilst offering salat, always bear in mind that the ‘CCTV cameras’ of Allah the Exalted are Exalted and operating everywhere. And when this is the case, you will know that this ‘closed circuit’ can catch you at any time. So, always bear this in mind. This is the true essence of [perceiving to] see God.”
How Huzooraa selects letters for personal reply
A khadim enquired how Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa decides which letters to reply to personally and which are answered by the Private Secretary.
Huzooraa explained that common letters requesting prayers [du‘a], without specific issues, are often delegated to the Private Secretary for a reply. However, letters requiring specific guidance or discussing particular issues are typically answered by Huzooraa himself. Given the volume of mail (30,000-40,000 letters a month), it’s impossible to personally reply to all. Huzooraa mentioned reading hundreds of letters daily himself, while others are summarised by office staff.
Referencing the hadith that deeds are judged by intentions, a khadim asked how to ensure one’s intentions are pure and solely for Allah’s pleasure before undertaking any virtuous act.
Huzooraa noted that even non-believers can possess good morals driven by virtuous intentions, for which they may be rewarded in their own way. However, for a believer, the intention is crucial.
If one attempts to reform someone (a good act) but with the intention of exposing their faults publicly, the intention is flawed and the act becomes sinful.
Huzooraa stated:
“If one has good intentions, then they think before they speak. This means that
one should do such things that are solely for the pleasure of Allah the Exalted and are done with pure intentions and for the purpose of helping to reform others. [...] As for purifying intentions, why does a person have bad intentions? Only such a person has bad intentions whose heart has been infiltrated by Satan. Hence, you should first recite
seek refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed’] before every matter.”
Huzooraa also mentioned the guidance of the Promised Messiahas to pray for someone for 40 days before complaining about them, allowing time for prayer to potentially bring reformation. Ultimately, one must examine their own heart to discern their true intention, seeking a verdict from within rather than always relying on external fatwas
A question was asked about the permissibility of investing in the shares of banking, credit card and entertainment/media companies, considering that banks deal in interest and media companies may host profane content alongside good content.
Huzooraa responded by explaining that in today’s world, it is extremely difficult to find businesses completely free from any form of wrongdoing, as indecency and vulgarity are prevalent even in advertising. He stated that while intentions play a significant role in judging one’s actions, it is still preferable to invest in businesses that are free from clear vices, if such options are available.
He clarified that investors are not compelled to invest in companies involved in interest-based operations or those promoting inappropriate content. Therefore, if one has the means and alternatives, it is better to avoid such investments, particularly when there is certainty that unethical practices are taking place.
Huzooraa added that if someone does invest in such companies, it should be with the intention of supporting their legitimate and beneficial activities, rather than their inappropriate aspects. He emphasised that this is a nuanced matter that each individual must reflect upon carefully and personally expressed that he himself would avoid investing in such companies if he had the means to do so.
Finally, a khadim noted that Huzooraa often recites longer Surahs of the Holy Quran during the Fajr prayer and asked about the reasoning behind this.
Huzooraa explained simply: “That is the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa used to recite long Surahs during Fajr prayer and that was the practice of all the Khulafa-e-Rashideen and other Khulafa of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya. That is why – to follow the sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa.”
At the conclusion of the mulaqat, the khuddam were graciously granted the opportunity to have a group photograph taken with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa Huzooraa then took his leave, bringing the blessed session to an end.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)
Tanzeel Khorram
Student Jamia Ahmadiyya UK
We have all felt it at some point. The horrible, drowning feeling is that there is no one to support, help or guide us. That we are completely and totally alone. But why is loneliness becoming so much more prevalent today?
For years now, loneliness has slowly been taking over the lives of many, with each passing year adding more and more victims to its grasp. In 2018, the BBC carried out a loneliness experiment, sampling 55,000 people around the world. It found 40% of 16-24 year olds feel lonely often or very often. (“Why do I feel so lonely even though I’m surrounded by people?”, bbc.co.uk, 8 January 2025)
Loneliness has become such a grave problem that the World Health Organisation declared it “a pressing global threat”, and the US Surgeon General described its mortality effects as being equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. (“WHO declares loneliness a ‘global public health concern’”, theguardian. com, 16 November 2023)
Why are people getting lonelier?
It seems that one of the underlying factors contributing to a rise in loneliness is the digitalisation of our world. With everything being at our fingertips, there is much less need to go out and socialise. Need food? We can order to our homes. Want to watch a movie? We can watch on our laptops and TVs. Want to catch up with friends? We can just text. Need to work? We can now work from home. It’s no surprise then, that loneliness is this prevalent amongst the new generation, or young adults.
But even then, there are many who socialise, who spend their day among people, among friends and colleagues and family. Why them? Why do they feel lonely? The root cause appears to be a lack of meaning in our daily experiences. A lot of us don’t feel like we truly belong with anyone. Though we spend our days in crowds, we feel invisible. We have friends, but we can’t connect with them. We have family, but we feel like they can’t understand us.
Is there a solution?
Since the issue of loneliness has begun to attract the attention of professionals, various solutions have been sought.
New apps have been launched that function like WhatsApp, but with a twist - instead, you text AI friends. For many, this has become a perfect answer to their loneliness, saying that their AI friends are a more constant presence and support than their real-life friends. However there are fears that by relying on AI friends people can lose touch with reality and further damage their connection to humans. (“Can an AI friend make you less lonely?”, theguardian. com, 2 August 2024)
Other solutions include going on walks, setting up community meals, holding church events, etc. However, a permanent or even long-term solution is yet to be presented by anyone.
The Islamic solution
Islam provides a solution that no one else can. Right from the outset, Islam encourages its followers to go out and socialise. For example, it’s obligatory for Muslim men to pray 5 times a day in congregation. This way, we are sort of forced to go and meet each other. There is a unique sense of unity when the rich and the poor, the distressed and the happy, the king and the peasant are all instructed to stand together, side by side in worship of their Lord. There we are reminded that no matter what standing we have, no matter what social status we have,
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Islamabad, Tilford, 19 April 2025: A group of Nasirat-ul-Ahmadiyya from Germany had the opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at Islamabad, Tilford, UK.
The mulaqat commenced as Huzooraa entered the hall and conveyed his greetings of ‘Assalamu Alaikum’. Huzooraa then invited a nasirah to recite a portion from the Holy Quran. She recited Ayat-ul-Kursi (Surah al-Baqarah, 2:256), followed by its German and Urdu translations, rendered by herself and another nasirah, respectively.
The nasirat then had the chance to ask Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa various questions.
The first question related to the recitation of the Holy Quran, asking if reading only the translation was sufficient.
Huzooraa explained that the command is to recite the Holy Quran in Arabic, the language of its revelation. It is compulsory and therein lie the blessings. He noted that many non-Arabs memorise the entire Holy Quran, indicating that mere Arabic recitation is achievable. However, Huzooraa stressed the equal importance of reading and understanding the translation to act upon its teachings.
Asked whether world leaders had replied to his previous letters warning of global conflict and if he intended to write again, Huzooraa stated that many leaders did not respond. A few claimed efforts towards nuclear disarmament but soon returned to previous ways. Huzooraa remarked that they seem unwilling to heed counsel. Although he has written again to some, the impact appears minimal.
Nevertheless, Huzooraa affirmed that the Jamaat’s duty is to persist in admonishing and conveying the message. Should they fail to listen, Huzooraa warned, the consequences, including potential world war and other calamities, would inevitably affect them too. He cautioned that the major world powers mistakenly believe themselves immune, but devastation reaching their own shores would compel them to recognise divine teachings and the wisdom they ignored.
Huzooraa advised the nasirat to discuss these issues within their own spheres –friends, family and teachers – explaining the path to peace to avert global catastrophe.
Regarding how one can converse with Allah daily, Huzooraa clarified that Allah communicates even with Prophets and saints only according to His Will, sometimes after long intervals. He cited instances where the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa experienced pauses in revelation, leading disbelievers to mock, yet Allah affirmed He had not
forsaken His Messengersa and said to him:
[Thy Lord has not forsaken thee, nor is He displeased with thee. (Surah ad-Duha, Ch. 93: V.4)]
Revelation, Huzooraa explained, comes when Allah deems necessary.
Our responsibility is humility before Him, guided by the Holy Prophet’ssa instruction to pray as if seeing Allah, or at least knowing He sees us. This consciousness fosters earnestness in prayer. Huzooraa pointed to the Quranic principle that Allah answers prayers, but first, one must heed His commands – questioning if the nasirat had studied and implemented all 700 commandments of the Holy Quran. Striving in obedience is the prerequisite for Allah communicating, which can occur through dreams, visions, inspiration (ilham), or direct revelation (wahy) to Prophets.
Huzooraa urged self-reflection on one’s obedience and faith, cautioning against rushed, distracted prayers while expecting divine communication. Sincere effort and strong faith are needed for Allah to make His presence felt through His varied means.
Huzooraa said:
“Our duty is to realise that we understand that we must humble ourselves before Allah the Exalted. The Holy Prophetsa said: ‘When you perform your prayers, do so with the thought that you are standing in the presence of Allah the Exalted and beholding Him; and if you cannot attain to that, then at the very least remember that Allah the Exalted is beholding you.’ [Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-iman, Hadith 50] Once this awareness takes hold – that Allah the Exalted is watching me, that He is everywhere and that He hears – our supplications will be offered in the proper spirit.
“In the Holy Quran, Allah declares that He will surely answer your prayers, but first you must listen to His words. [Surah alBaqarah, Ch.2: V.187] Ask yourself: have you listened to all of Allah’s words? The Quran contains seven hundred injunctions, directing what is to be done and what is to be avoided – have you read them, understood them, reflected upon them?
“When you have indeed read, understood and acted upon them, then Allah the Exalted will speak with you. Allah’s ways of communing are varied: sometimes He manifests Himself through dreams, at times in states of spiritual unveiling [kashf]; He treats different people in different ways. Some experience ilham [i.e., divine inspiration]; Prophets receive wahy [revelation] that descends into their hearts – these are distinct conditions.
“First, therefore, we must examine how much of Allah’s speech we have truly heard and how perfect our faith has become; only then may we claim something. It is not acceptable that we rush through our
prayers, rousing ourselves lazily for Fajr, hastily completing Isha because we wish to watch a television programme and then demand that Allah converse with us. Allah does not speak in that manner.
“Allah says: first heed My words and place complete faith in Me; thereafter I shall listen to you. Allah the Exalted possesses many ways of hearing and making Himself heard. His discourse is not like [two of you] casually chatting. Allah the Exalted may convey something in dreams or instil it directly into the heart so that you become certain it is from Him. You witness results: you pray for something essential and if your relationship with Allah the Exalted is genuine and He fulfils it within the desired time, you are convinced that Allah the Exalted has accepted and heard you. Through such manifestations – His attributes and His works – Allah the Exalted becomes evident.”
Moon sighting and Eid
A girl asked, why Ahmadis and other Muslims sometimes celebrate Eid on different dates?
Huzooraa replied that the Jamaat adheres to the Prophetic directive: the fast is begun and ended only after a reliable local sighting of the new crescent; should the moon not be seen, fasting continues and Eid is held the following day. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1909; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1081c; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1081a)
He added that others follow their own methods, at times relying on Saudi announcements or, in parts of northern Pakistan, celebrating a day early without producing any witnesses. These varying practices, he said, offer no valid evidence. The Jamaat’s position is: Show us the crescent or present four trustworthy witnesses and we shall celebrate Eid with you. Otherwise, the Jamaat adheres to the principle taught by the Holy Prophetsa
Huzooraa noted that last year in the United Kingdom, Ahmadis and nonAhmadis celebrated together because the crescent was genuinely sighted.
Joining the wrong prayer inadvertently
Regarding joining a congregational prayer late under a mistaken assumption (e.g., joining Asr thinking it was Zuhr), Huzooraa advised that if the mistake was genuine, one should complete the prayer joined (Asr in the example) with the imam and then offer the missed prayer (Zuhr) individually afterwards. However, if one knows the current prayer is Asr but has missed Zuhr, they must first offer Zuhr individually before joining the Asr congregation.
Guarding against negative thoughts
To protect oneself from negative
thoughts, Huzooraa recommended frequent recitation of istighfar and
(“There is no might or power save with Allah”). He advised praying for protection during salat and reciting the three last Surahs and Ayat-ul-Kursi before sleep, blowing lightly over oneself and repeating ‘La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah’
Handshakes with non-mahram men
On explaining the Islamic practice of not shaking hands with non-mahram men, especially when some Muslim women do, Huzooraa drew an analogy: if some Muslims reduce prayers, does that justify others doing so? He emphasised that others ignoring a teaching does not permit us to abandon it.
The Holy Prophetsa, despite greeting women, never shook their hands, even during the solemn bai‘at pledge. If the Purest of Creation, peace and blessings be upon him, refrained, Huzooraa questioned the need for us to do so.
He expressed concern that some Muslim women initiate handshakes out of an inferiority complex, which is incorrect. Huzooraa advised, gently explaining that Islamic dignity requires refraining from such contact. Politely declining an offered handshake, stating it is a matter of faith and honour, is usually understood and respected, even by Westerners. He urged educating others, including elders, about this teaching.
A concern for today’s youth
When asked about his greatest hope for the youth, Huzooraa expressed his desire that they always remain mindful of Allah. He counselled them to be regular in the five daily prayers, study the Holy Quran with its translation, implement its teachings and strive to be true Muslims and believers. Huzooraa stressed that the steadfastness of young women ensures the faith of the next generation.
Huzooraa said:
“My concern is that you remember Allah and never forget Him; I remind you time and again to observe the five daily prayers. [...] They should offer the five prayers, read the Holy Quran, act upon the Holy Quran, learn its translation and endeavour to practise it. Become true Muslims, true believers and all problems will be resolved. Then my worry will be removed, for if our young girls remain steadfast in faith, the next generation will likewise remain steadfast. This, then, is my chief concern: that you remain firm upon religion and obey Allah and His commandments.”
Regarding paradise and the fate of nonAhmadis who perform good deeds, Huzooraa explained that entry into paradise and its levels are solely determined by Allah. Both heaven and hell have degrees. Hell serves as purification, with varying durations, after which it will eventually be empty. Allah forgives all sins except shirk (associating partners with God). A person free from shirk might attain a lower level of paradise through good deeds. However, those who persecute God’s servants or commit major injustices will not enter paradise merely by profession of faith or prayer.
Huzooraa said:
“Only Allah truly knows [...] What are Paradise and Hell? Just as Hell has its levels, Paradise possesses various ranks; [for example], the station reached by the Holy Prophetsa is one that every individual cannot attain.
“In the same way, Hell also has different degrees. Think of a hospital: one patient is sent home with nothing more than paracetamol for a headache; another is told that treatment is needed and is admitted for a short while or a single day; someone else is kept in for five days; a person requiring surgery may remain even longer. Hell likewise functions as a place of treatment. As Allah the Exalted completes the punishment for a person’s errors, He releases that soul. Hence, the Holy Prophetsa related that Allah Almighty says a time will come when Hell will be emptied, with no one left within it, because each person will have served his sentence. [Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab ar-riqaq, Hadith 6571; Al-Baghawi, Abu Muhammad al-Husayn ibn Mas‘ud, Ma‘alim at-Tanzīl (Tafsir al-Baghawi), commentary on Surah Hud (11:108)]
“On the Day of Resurrection, Allah will gather everyone together; He will summon the people of Paradise and those of Hell. From among the latter, whoever has completed his punishment will be told, ‘Enter Paradise’, while the dwellers of Paradise will be raised to yet higher stations.
“Allah the Exalted is the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. He says that, apart from shirk, He forgives all other sins. [Surah an-Nisa, Ch.4: V.48] If a person avoids shirk, certain good deeds may lead him to one of the lower degrees of Paradise. But if someone commits shirk, opposes the truth, fosters enmity and persecutes Allah’s servants – like those clerics today who claim, ‘If we kill Ahmadis we shall enter Paradise’ – then, as the Holy Prophetsa has conveyed, Allah declares: ‘I shall not admit
such people to Paradise,’ even though they invoke My name, offer prayers and recite the Holy Quran; for Allah states in the Quran that their very prayers will drag them to ruin. Thus, there are many levels and even the slightest degree of Paradise granted to a person is an immense blessing.”
Addressing the Quranic inheritance law where a son receives twice the share of a daughter, Huzooraa explained this reflects the greater financial responsibilities placed upon men. A man must provide for his family, whereas a woman’s wealth is her own, with no obligation to spend it on husband or children. Furthermore, a woman might inherit from multiple families through marriage. Thus, the shares are distributed according to divinely ordained responsibilities and ultimately, the woman benefits from the man’s provision as well.
Finally, on conveying Islam’s beauty amidst negative media portrayals, Huzooraa advised countering negativity with truth. He recommended his book, World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace, as a resource. He drew a parallel: the wrongdoings of some Christians do not invalidate the Bible, nor do the actions of some Muslims invalidate Islam. Huzooraa encouraged the nasirat to study his lectures and writings on peace, rooted in Quranic teachings, to gain the knowledge needed to confidently explain Islam’s true message, noting that brief answers are insufficient for convincing others at their age.
Guidance for nasirat
In his concluding remarks, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa reiterated his advice to the nasirat: read the Holy Quran and act upon its teachings, safeguard prayers, uphold high moral standards, remain truthful despite difficulties and adhere to modest Islamic dress – covering the whole body appropriately and modestly, not just wearing a headscarf with jeans and a blouse. He emphasised that as they grow older, maintaining full modest dress is essential. Simply identifying as Muslim is insufficient; strengthening one’s faith according to Allah’s commands is paramount.
Huzooraa said:
“Perform the five daily prayers, read the Holy Quran, act upon its teachings, safeguard your prayers, display good morals and remain steadfast in truth – never lie, whatever difficulty may arise. Keep your attire modest: it is not sufficient to go out wearing jeans and a blouse with merely your head covered and claim that the scarf is enough; it is not, the body itself must be covered. Some say that I have said one may go out draped only in a chador, yet when a girl reaches adolescence – fifteen years and above – and enters Lajna, she must remember that her whole body is to be covered and modest clothing is obligatory, with the head also veiled. At the ages of fourteen to fifteen, especially and thereafter in Lajna as well, you must remain mindful of these matters. If you practise Islamic teachings, you will become good Ahmadis and good Muslims; otherwise, although you may bear the name of Muslim, your faith
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in the end we are all answerable to the one true God. In this way, a beggar does not feel left out, as the man standing next to him may be a king, but in the estimation of God Almighty, they are both His servants, and they both deserve to be heard.
Similarly, once a year Muslims gather for Hajj. Here too, Muslims all around the world meet to join together and worship their Lord. No one person is superior to another, no one person feels left out. Friends are made, relationships are strengthened, and a sense of brotherhood is felt.
The Holy Prophetsa of Islam showed through his example just how to integrate into society, and how to take care of others. He taught that when a Muslim is sick, we should go meet him, and take care of him.
(Riyad as-Salihin, Hadith 897)
When a Muslim is in debt, we should help him and give him ease. (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 2417)
When we get married, we should give our food to the poor. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1432a)
We should give to charity and take care of the needy. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 1429)
We should meet a Muslim with a smile. (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1956)
We should spread greetings of peace to each other. (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3693)
He taught to join the ties of kinship, to forgive, and to be kind and compassionate. (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, Hadith 55)
The Holy Prophet’ssa practice was in accordance with the following verse of the Holy Quran:
“He who does not thank the people is not thankful to Allah.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith 4811)
The Holy Prophet’ssa own example
The Holy Prophetsa took care of people at every level of society. Hazrat Anasra states: “I have never seen a man who was more compassionate to one’s family than Allah’s Messengersa.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2316)
A companion got married and had nothing for his Walima. The Holy Prophetsa instructed him to go to Hazrat Aishara and fetch flour. He happily went and took a bucket of flour. What he did not know, however, was that the bucket of flour was all the household of the Holy Prophetsa had for dinner that night. (“The Holy Prophet’s love and kindness for his Companions”, alhakam.org, 20 November 2020)
This is the example of selflessness that our Holy Prophetsa wished to inculcate in us. He was ready to face any pain and difficulty for the comfort of those around him. But today, all anyone focuses on is themselves and their own pain. A brother complains about having to give his sister a glass of water. A husband complains about having to drive his wife to her family. No wonder, then, that people feel lonely. If their very needs are ignored, their wants brushed aside, their feelings cast off, how can our society ever regain any sense of unity and togetherness?
“And worship Allah and associate naught with Him, and show kindness to parents, and to kindred, and orphans, and the needy, and to the neighbour that is a kinsman and the neighbour that is a stranger, and the companion by your side, and the wayfarer, and those whom your right hands possess. Surely, Allah loves not the proud and the boastful.” (Surah Al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.37)
Thus, Islam, at its very core, orders us to truly take care of everyone we meet. Not doing so means that, in the sight of Allah, we are of “the proud and the boastful.”
Moreover, Allah states that He is with those who do good to others (Surah alAnkabut, Ch.29: V.70):
In summary, Islam teaches us that if we want to be loved by God and have His help, then first we must take care of His creation. Not only this, but the Holy Prophetsa taught us to appreciate those around us, further nurturing ties of friendship and love.
will be weak. Strengthening one’s faith is essential; merely bearing the title ‘Muslim’ is not enough, as Allah the Almighty declares in the Holy Quran.”
The Holy Prophetsa left such a great example that he would go out of his way to make sure his companions and his family were safe and happy. If a companion of his was hungry, the Holy Prophetsa would know; if a companion was upset, he would talk to him and advise him. If an argument takes place between two Muslims, he would facilitate. Everything the Holy Prophetsa did was to ensure that at every level of society, no one felt alone. The Holy Prophetsa may have loved Hazrat Abu Bakrra the most from his companions, and spent more time with Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Uthmanra and Hazrat Alira, but this didn’t mean that anyone else felt left out. The Holy Prophetsa made each and every one he met feel special.
It is a pity, however, that even Muslims have forgotten this essential practice of the Holy Prophetsa. Nowadays, people are only concerned about themselves, and a solution that was provided 1400 years ago, is ignored. The Holy Prophet’ssa own example shows us such a clear path to tackling our social problems, that if they had been acted upon, we may not have been having this conversation at all.
Islam, as a religion based on human nature, maximises opportunities for Muslims to get together and removes completely any constant feelings of loneliness. It’s just a matter of putting in the effort and following the way of the Holy Prophetsa
“Whoever does not show mercy to the people, Allah will not show mercy to him.”
(Tirmidhi, Hadith 1922)
The mulaqat concluded with Huzooraa graciously distributing gifts among the nasirat before taking his leave.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)
‘Ahmadiyyat is the only hope for Islam’: Sir Edward Denison Ross (1871-1940)
Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra (1883-1948)
Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard[ra] MA and Maulvi Ghulam Farid[ra] MA are diligently engaged in conveying the message of truth [i.e., Islam Ahmadiyyat] in England. The journey of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] to London, along with a delegation, on the occasion of the Conference of Religions, his laying of the foundation stone of the first House of God in the capital of the British Empire – an event indicative of the good fortune of the Western world – his leading of congregational prayers as the first imam in the mosque constructed in the capital of the French Empire and his dignified arrival in Rome, the epicenter of Christianity, as the representative of the Promised Messiahas, are all events of great significance. On the one hand, these occurrences offer an opportunity for reflection and contemplation to those awaiting the second advent of the Messiah, particularly those who, in 1924, wished to witness the descent of their lord in his glory. On the other hand, these developments are a source of reassurance for the community of believers, as they have established the honour of Islam in the eyes of the scholarly circles. Many among the intellectuals of Europe, including Sir E Denison Ross, President of the Conference of Religions, have remarked:
“Ahmadiyyat is the only hope for Islam.”
There is also a considerable number of individuals who are drawn to the simple and appealing principles of Islam, yet feel disillusioned by the practical conditions of Muslim countries and the conduct of those who are so-called Muslims, as well as by the corrupt doctrines espoused by their clerics.
The voice of this discerning class was heard during the Ahmadiyya session of the Conference of Religions, articulated through Sir Theodore Morison, former Principal of Aligarh. Upon listening to the teachings of Islam as presented by the Promised Messiahas, he remarked:
“I consider myself fortunate to have lived to see the emergence of this new [revival] movement among Muslims.”
In short, the tour of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community to the West has
generated a movement that our missionaries are actively utilising and sustaining through The Review of Religions. There is scarcely a person of religious or literary interest in England who has not come across our magazine. Moreover, the magazine is being widely circulated not only in England but also in various other countries around the world.
Our missionaries have also begun delivering outdoor lectures and based on my personal experience, these speeches have proven to be effective and beneficial.
Our friends are already familiar with the resolution published in Al Fazl […], which has reached every corner of the globe through world-renowned British authors and eminent intellectuals. Our objective in disseminating this resolution is to safeguard the faith of Prophet Muhammadsa of Arabia from the misguided actions of those who claim to be his followers and to make it known to the world that those who recite the creed (kalimah) in the house of the Arabian Prophetsa are the crowned [protectors of Islam]. And the crownless are the enemies of Islam who, at a time when powerful external forces are aligned against the Holy Prophetsa, are attacking from within, targeting his sacred legacy.
The act of stoning – or supporting such actions – is not an outcome of Islamic teaching, but rather a manifestation of ignorance and savagery that has overtaken this defaming faction as a consequence of their estrangement from the light of Islam. It is for this very reason that the Holy Prophetsa has called such individuals as akin to the Jews.
In short, the protection of Islam compels us to keep alive the memory of the martyrs’ sacrifices and to cleanse the noble face of Islam from this unsightly stain. This objective is being pursued through the adoption of resolutions by various European societies. Among the many communications received by our London Mission, the following statement is particularly noteworthy:
“The days of the ‘Inquisition’ seem very far from us now and it is almost unbelievable
that in any country such a state of things should exist at the present time, but the report of the stoning to death of two more devotees of the Ahmadiyya movement in Islam makes us realise how slow civilisation seems to be in spreading over the world.”
A continuous stream of letters has been arriving from individuals across all European countries. Among them is a letter from a prominent individual of Indian origin, from which the following excerpt is presented:
“Afghanistan is, in truth, the most barbaric country and the most backwards in terms of civilisation. Based on reports in the press, it appears that the Afghan government itself is beginning to feel ashamed of its disgraceful actions. Like others in this nation, I, too, was deeply grieved upon reading of the atrocities committed in Kabul. You may rest assured of my full sympathy in every possible way.”
(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 23 April 1925 issue of Al Fazl)
Misbah Anmol Tariq
Jamaica Correspondent
In February 2025, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Jamaica held its annual refresher course. Two separate events took place for this purpose: first at the Mahdi Mosque in the south of the island and later at the Salat Centre in Falmouth, located on the north side of the island.
At the Mahdi Mosque, the programme commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran. One of the key sessions was led by the mu‘allim Ghulam Ahmed Sahib,
who discussed the importance of mosque etiquette and prayer. The second speaker, Ibrahim Forson Sahib, delivered a thoughtprovoking lecture on the universality of Islam. The event concluded with an interactive session led by Tariq Azeem Sahib, President and Missionary-in-Charge of Jamaica. His presentation built upon the previous discussion, focusing on the topic “Why Allah Sent the Promised Messiahas.” During this session, attendees engaged with an especially prepared booklet that complemented the discussion, emphasising the significance of the Promised Messiahas and his mission.
Zeeshan Ahmad
Secretary Ishaat, South Virginia, USA
On 23 March 2025, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya South Virginia held Jalsa Yaum-e-Masih-eMaud at the Masroor Mosque, attended by over 750 members.
The programme commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a
poem and a special video presentation on the ten conditions of bai‘at. The first speech was delivered by the local president, Tanveer Zafar Sahib, on “The Truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas”. Then, Syed Shamshad Nasir Sahib, a missionary, delivered a speech and described the humility of the Promised Messiahas before his claim and narrated about the first bai‘at. The jalsa concluded with a silent prayer.
After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:
Allah the Almighty has granted us the opportunity to experience this Ramadan. Today is the last Friday of Ramadan. It is a favour of Allah the Almighty that He has enabled many of us to worship and also to observe the fasts. However, along with this, we should also be mindful of the fact that merely by observing the fasts during Ramadan and worshipping during Ramadan, our purpose has not been fulfilled. In fact, Allah the Almighty has commanded and guided us that we should permanently become His servants and try to fulfil the rights of worshipping Him. Hence, during these days, those who were able to pay attention towards their prayers, towards congregational prayers, voluntary prayers and reciting the Holy Quran and those who were granted the ability by Allah the Almighty to act in accordance with it, they now have a responsibility to uphold these virtues. Only if we uphold these virtues will we be able to achieve the objective, which Allah the Almighty has set as the purpose of man’s creation.
Furthermore, in this era, we have pledged allegiance at the hands of the Ardent Devotee of the Holy Prophetsa and have thus renewed this pledge. As such, we should continue to try our level best to fulfil this [pledge]. Today and even in the remaining few days of Ramadan, or two days that remain, we should supplicate that Allah the Almighty enables us to continue these virtues as a result of the blessings of this Ramadan and that after Ramadan we do not forget these virtues, which we performed in accordance with the commandment of Allah the Almighty. The reason for this is that the Holy Prophetsa has said that a believer is he who waits from one prayer to the next prayer, from one Friday [prayer] to the next, and from one Ramadan to the next. That is, he waits for them so that he can once again perform those acts of worship and those virtuous deeds during that time, which Allah the Almighty has commanded to perform. Furthermore, during this time, these acts of worship atone for small mistakes and sins. The Holy Prophetsa has said that they become the means for atonement. (Sahih Muslim, Kitab at-taharah, Bab al-salawat al-khams)
Thus, just as Ramadan is important, every prayer and every Friday prayer is important. This Friday is not blessed simply due to being the last of Ramadan; rather, every Friday is blessed. As I mentioned, in this era, Allah the Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas and we were able to accept him. He gave countless guidance
to his Jamaat on how we can become true Muslims, how we can become true servants of Allah the Almighty and how we can become members of the ummah of the Holy Prophetsa. Thus, we should remain mindful of these matters. On one occasion, whilst imparting guidance to us, the Promised Messiahas said that he has told his Jamaat time and again not to simply rely on having pledged allegiance to him. Until one understands its true significance, they will not find salvation. A person who suffices on the shell remains deprived of the essence.
The Promised Messiahas stated that if a disciple does not act upon the teachings,
then they are not true adherents. If a follower is not practicing, then the eminence of their leader does not benefit them in any way. The Promised Messiahas said that it is not possible for one to simply say “I have taken the pledge of allegiance (bai‘at) with such and such a spiritual leader,” or “I have pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas, and now I have attained a great deal,” Until we ourselves become those who act upon the teachings, our pledge of allegiance cannot benefit us in any way.
The Promised Messiahas further explained this with an example: Just as someone visits a doctor, receives a
prescription, and then simply keeps it with them, they will not derive any benefit from it. The benefit will only be gained if one actually follows the prescription given by the doctor or physician, applies the treatment, and uses the prescribed medicine.
The Promised Messiahas stated that he has written a book titled Kashti-eNuh [Noah’s Ark], which one should read repeatedly, as it contains guidance. When one reads it again and again, acts upon its guidance, and strives to shape their lives according to its teachings – which are in line with the commandments of Allah and His Messengersa – then that will lead one to the true path to success. That is what will truly benefit you in their pledge of allegiance.
The Promised Messiahas further states that Allah the Almighty declares that the one who purifies himself is the one who attains true success.
“Verily, he truly prospers who purifies himself.” (The Holy Quran, 91:10)
Only when one acts upon this will they attain benefit. Giving an example, the Promised Messiahas stated that there are thousands of thieves, adulterers, sinners, alcoholics, and criminals who claim to belong to the ummah of the Holy Prophetsa But are they truly so? Do they actually have the right to be called the followers of the Holy Prophetsa? The Promised Messiahas said absolutely not! This is not possible. A true member of the ummah is one who fully adheres to the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, pp. 232233)
If someone does not follow these teachings, then they cannot be called a part of his ummah. To claim otherwise is nothing but a means of dishonouring the Holy Prophetsa
Therefore, we must always remember that we need to ensure our actions are in accordance with Islamic teachings – the commandments of Allah the Almighty as conveyed to us by the Holy Prophetsa and, in this era, the guidance given to us by the Promised Messiahas
In one instance, the Promised Messiahas stated that having entered this Jamaat, one must act upon its teachings.
He stated that after joining the Jamaat, one also faces hardships. If there were no hardships, then how could one attain a reward? He said that the Holy Prophetsa endured suffering in Mecca for thirteen years, and one cannot even comprehend the difficulties of that time. Therefore, always
remember that trials and tribulations do come. But even when these hardships befell both the Holy Prophetsa and his Companions in Mecca, the Holy Prophetsa still taught patience. And what was the result? In the end, the enemy was completely destroyed.
The Promised Messiahas says that you will see that these mischievous people –those who oppose you – will eventually vanish and cease to exist. The same circumstances exist today as well. Allah Almighty has decreed that He will spread this Jamaat across the world. He said that these people trouble you because they see you as few in number, but when the Jamaat grows significantly, they will fall silent on their own. This has always been the principle of the world, and this is the history we have seen with the communities of prophets.
The Promised Messiahas further said that if Allah had willed, these people would not have caused you distress, and no such persecutors would have existed. However, Allah intends to teach you patience through them.
Allah the Almighty is the Master of all powers; He has the ability to stop these oppressors; however, He also wishes to test us, to see how much patience we possess and to what extent we establish our relationship with Him. Is our worship to Allah the Almighty merely during the month of Ramadan? Do we truly wish to make this worship a permanent part of our lives, and are we making efforts to do so? If we fail to do this, then there is no benefit. If we do this, and we also remain patiently content with the will of Allah the Almighty and keep praying, then Allah the Almighty will grant us deliverance from the enemy. Then, you will witness how Allah the Almighty will protect you from these afflictions.
The Promised Messiahas states that patience itself is an act of worship. God Almighty states that those who remain patient shall be granted rewards beyond measure, meaning they shall receive blessings without limit. This reward is exclusively for those who are patient. There is no such promise from Allah the Almighty for any other act of worship. When a person spends his life within a community, then when he endures much suffering, the Protector’s honour will be impassioned and He will destroy the one who causes them harm. Meaning when we exhibit patience, prostrate ourselves before Allah the Almighty, and pray to Him, then Allah the Almighty’s honour will be stirred.
At times, people become impatient. It is true that we are facing great afflictions in certain places, especially in Pakistan. However, Allah the Almighty expects of us – and the Promised Messiahas has instructed us – that we remain patient. It is not sufficient to simply supplicate during Ramadan; rather, we must make these prayers and righteous deeds a permanent part of our lives. Only then will we reap the true benefit. The Promised Messiahas clearly declared that our Jamaat is under the protection of Allah the Almighty, and enduring hardships only strengthens faith. There is nothing akin to patience. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, p. 235)
Thus, if we keep these things in mind, then, insha-Allah, we will continue to progress, and the enemy will never be able to hinder our efforts, or frustrate our plans. However, the condition remains that our
own deeds must be righteous, and that we carry out every action solely for the pleasure of God Almighty.
On one occasion, the Promised Messiahas stated that you should not remain engrossed in the world; rather, turn towards Allah the Almighty. And when you turn towards Allah the Almighty, then you will witness how He will create ease for you.
Then, while giving advice regarding righteousness, the Promised Messiahas states that history tells us that true Muslims in the early days always had to endure hardships. Even the Companions faced such circumstances that they had to survive by eating leaves. At times, even a morsel of food was not available.
The Promised Messiahas said that no one can do good for another until God Almighty wills good for them. If Allah the Almighty desires good for someone, only then will they receive goodness from others. When a person adopts righteousness, then God Almighty Himself opens doors for them. It is merely your supposition that others will bestow goodness upon you, but if Allah the Almighty has not yet decreed good for you, then you may exert innumerable efforts, but they will not be able to bestow goodness. To tread the path of righteousness, one must bow before Allah the Almighty, and when we attain His pleasure and begin to tread the path of righteousness, then, Allah the Almighty will open the doors of His grace. Insha-Allah.
That is why the Promised Messiahas instructed to have true faith in Allah the Almighty, for everything will be attained through Him, because Allah the Almighty states:
(The Holy Quran, 68:3-4)
Whoever adopts righteousness and fears Allah, He will create a way out for them and provide for them from where they could never have imagined. He will grant them ease and blessings from sources they never anticipated. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, p. 204)
Therefore, we must always keep this in mind if we truly wish to make our lives successful and benefit from the blessings of this Ramadan, or indeed any Ramadan.
In relation to fulfilling the rights of one another, the Promised Messiahas stated that people should sit together in harmony. The more love and affection you show towards one another, the greater will be the love of Allah the Almighty for you. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, p. 228)
It is not just the physical acts of worship, but in the days of Ramadan, many people’s attention is drawn towards demonstrating high moral conduct – many people’s attention has been drawn towards this – and they even share it with others. It is, however, essential that we continue to uphold these high morals. We must resolve to avoid petty disagreements, trivial disputes, and small conflicts that arise among us, and instead lead a life filled with love and affection. When we do so, then the blessings of Allah the Almighty shall rain down upon us.
Then, on another occasion, whilst imparting guidance, the Promised Messiahas states that it is imperative for our Jamaat, especially in this turbulent age, where the winds of misguidance, negligence, and deception are sweeping from every direction, to adopt righteousness.
If one observes, what medium is not being used today to lead people towards misguidance? Every form of media, every effort is working towards this very end. Worldly people have started using every means to lead others towards misguidance, ignorance and to lead them away from Allah the Almighty.
In such a time, our responsibility as those who claim to have believed in the Promised Messiahas, who came in this age for the rejuvenation of faith and the revival of Islam, is to strive to avoid such evils. We must assess ourselves: how many of us truly refrain from these things? Everyone ought to make this assessment, including the youth, the elderly, men, women, and children alike.
The Promised Messiahas continues that the current state of the world is such that they have no regard for the greatness of Allah the Almighty’s commandments. They have a disregard for the rights due to Him and His commandments. They have no regard for Allah the Almighty’s admonitions. He says that people have become excessively engrossed in worldly matters.
If we assess our own conditions, we too find instances where people have become overly immersed in worldly affairs. Sometimes, people forget to offer their prayers, some neglect the Jumuah prayers, and some disregard other good deeds. At times, in pursuit of their rights, they even try to usurp the rights of others. Such things do not bring one closer to Allah the Almighty. Therefore, while we are engaged in prayers during Ramadan, asking Allah the Almighty to grant us the opportunity to do good deeds and to fulfil our needs, we must also put into practice the guidance that Allah the Almighty has provided to us. We must make an effort as well; relying solely on prayer will not suffice.
The Promised Messiahas mentioned that those engrossed in worldly affairs, when faced with worldly loss, raise a hue and they begin to cry out loud. And, just as I mentioned earlier, in order to save themselves from incurring any worldly loss, they disregard the rights due to Allah the Almighty. They have no regard for the rights due to Allah the Almighty, so long as they don’t incur any worldly loss. They fail to pay attention to the guidance of Allah the Almighty and neglect the rights of others. Some even get involved in lawsuits and wrongfully file lawsuits. And then, in order to disgrace the other party, they present false arguments and evidence upon the advice of their lawyers. The lawyers try to persuade them to present false arguments and testimonies. In such circumstances, how can we expect Allah the Almighty’s help? If one wants Allah the Almighty’s support, it is essential to focus on virtue and strive to adhere to the commandments of Allah the Almighty.
The Promised Messiahas further states that whilst they are in a state of weakness, they do not have the courage to commit sin. They do not commit sin whilst they are weak and are drawn towards Allah the Almighty, but as they get an opportunity, they immediately begin to commit falsehood and sin.
Once they are granted ease and prosperity, they forget that it is Allah Who has granted them this ease and prosperity and they forget about their earlier state. True gratitude to Allah the Almighty is
to maintain those good deeds and never attempt to usurp the rights of Allah or His servants, i.e. those deeds which one carried out in their state of weakness. If someone is violating the rights of others, it is because they lack true righteousness.
The Promised Messiahas states that when true righteousness exists, a person cannot engage in such actions. He further states that there is a great deal mentioned in the ahadith and many blessings, but people lack faith in their hearts and do not practically adhere to these things.
There are some people who speak with reference to the Quran and Hadith, but they lack the practical condition and faith in order to adhere to it. The Promised Messiahas states that God Almighty has sent him to instil these virtues once again. When God saw that this field [of virtue] was empty, His divine Majesty could not allow this field to remain barren and for people to remain distant. Hence, He desires to create a new, living Jamaat, and this is why we preach the message of adopting a life of righteousness. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, pp. 395-396)
Thus, as we have entered the pledge of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas and become part of a new Jamaat, we must strive to lead our lives filled with righteousness.
The Promised Messiahas states that righteousness is not something that can be obtained merely by words. In fact, Satan misleads even those who strive to practice righteousness. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, p. 398, footnote)
The Promised Messiahas then gave an example of this, “A small amount of sweetness attracts countless ants. (If there is sugar or sweets placed somewhere, ants will swarm to it.) This is the same case of the sins caused by satanic influence, and it reflects the level of weakness in man.” A person may think that they have become very righteous and are adhering to righteousness, but when Satan attacks, it becomes clear that they are not yet fully safeguarded from the attacks of Satan and are not completely under the protection of Allah.
The Promised Messiahas states:
“Had Allah willed, He would not have left humans in such a state of weakness.” As I mentioned earlier that the moment someone performs a good deed, they may think that they adhere to righteousness, but this is not true righteousness. This is a righteousness that is vulnerable to Satan’s attacks. Just as ants are drawn to sweetness, Satan also attacks to provoke feelings of selfrighteousness, convincing a person that they have become virtuous. When this happens, they drift away from their good deeds, and arrogance starts to take root.
The Promised Messiahas states that, thus, those who walk the path of righteousness must tread carefully and cautiously. This is only possible when, “a person recognises that the source of all strength is Allah alone.
“No Prophet or Messenger has the power to bestow this strength of their own accord. (Indeed, one attains blessings through Prophets and Messengers; one attains blessings by following their teachings. But all power belongs to Allah the Almighty alone. Prophets and Messengers also guide one to seek from Allah the Almighty.) Then, when one gains this strength from God Almighty, one is able to bring about a change within oneself. In order to attain this, it is necessary to supplicate, and it is prayer that
can remove all satanic weaknesses. This in itself is termed a supplication. Satan wishes for man to remain weak in his prayers, because he knows that all the reformation possible will take place through this. But the condition for this is to become pure and chaste. So long as man has impurities inside him, Satan will continue to love him.”
(Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, p. 398)
Therefore, observing prayer is a prerequisite in order to become purified. During this month of Ramadan, we derived benefit by offering prayers regularly, by being more mindful of it and by offering voluntary prayers.
The Promised Messiahas stated:
“If you wish to remain protected from Satan indefinitely and remain steadfast upon righteousness, then the condition for this is to focus on worship – such worship which is performed with care and in accordance with the commandments of Allah the Almighty, devoid of any form of ostentation or display. When worship is offered in this manner, a person will always remain protected against Satan’s assaults and will remain under the shelter of Allah the Almighty’s mercy.”
Furthermore, with regard to righteousness, the Promised Messiahas stated that in order to become righteous, it is essential for a person to not only abstain from grave matters such as adultery, theft, usurping the rights of others, hypocrisy, arrogance, contempt, and miserliness, and abandon all immoral conduct, but also to excel in adopting moral excellences. True righteousness requires that one not only shun major evil and refrain from immoral acts, as this is not sufficient; rather, true righteousness is when one takes steps towards virtues. The real objective is to eradicate evil conduct and replace it with virtues. If one eschews all evil morals and adopts virtues, then that is the real essence. Thus, righteousness is not merely to avoid sin; rather, it is about refraining from evil and actively pursuing good deeds.
Then, what are the other virtues that one should adopt? They include treating others with kindness, displaying good manners, showing compassion, demonstrating sincere loyalty and truthfulness towards God Almighty, and seeking opportunities to reach the elevated station. A person should strive to engage in deeds that please Allah the Almighty and are worthy of praise. It is through such efforts that one becomes a righteous person. The Promised Messiahas has stated that when these qualities are adopted by an individual, they are counted among the righteous.
The Promised Messiahas further said that when people reach this state, Allah the Almighty becomes their Guardian, as Allah the Almighty Himself declares:
“No fear shall come upon them, nor shall they grieve”. (The Holy Qur’an, 2:39)
In another place, God states:
“And He protects the righteous”. (The Holy Qur’an, 7:197)
It is narrated in a Hadith that Allah the Almighty becomes the hands with which such people grasp, the eyes with which they see, the ears with which they hear, and the feet with which they walk. In another Hadith, it is mentioned: “Whosoever bears
enmity towards My friend, they should prepare for war against Me.”
In another place, it is mentioned that when someone attacks a friend of God, Allah the Almighty pounces upon that person with the ferocity of a lioness whose cub has been snatched from her. The Promised Messiahas said that this is how one attains the mercy of Allah the Almighty. When a person takes a step towards God, He, in turn, advances towards them. The mercy of Allah the Almighty is not bestowed upon everyone; thus, whosoever is a recipient of His mercy becomes a manifest sign of it. The greatest signs were shown in support of the Holy Prophetsa and despite the relentless efforts of his enemies to bring about his ruin, not a single one of their schemes succeeded. To the extent that they plotted to assassinate him, yet all such attempts were ultimately foiled.
The Promised Messiahas states that one should continuously nurture the love and reverence of Allah the Almighty within their hearts, and there is no greater means of achieving this than prayer. The essence of true devotion lies in presenting one’s virtues before Allah the Almighty and fulfilling the due rights of His worship and the Promised Messiahas has mentioned that there is no greater means than prayer.
Thus, we have passed through the month of Ramadan, we have experienced [different stages in] our prayers and improved on our virtues. It is now essential to continue these practices, and in order to draw the mercy of Allah the Almighty, these virtuous habits must become a permanent part of our lives. Without this, there is no survival.
The Promised Messiahas states that while the fasting month comes once a year, and Zakat is obligatory only upon those who possess wealth (not everyone pays Zakat), this too is a virtue, but prayer is a fundamental obligation for everyone five times a day. Whether one is rich or poor, young or old, they must offer the prayers. Never neglect your prayers. Offer them repeatedly, and do so with full attention, keeping in view that you are standing before the One Who holds immense power that, if He wills, He can accept your supplication in an instant. One should have such firm faith that one thinks that one stands in the presence of God. He is All-Powerful, such that if He wills, He can grant acceptance to your prayers at any moment.
The Promised Messiahas states that worldly rulers are dependent on their treasuries and constantly worry about them finishing and sending them into destitution. They remain worried about how they will be replenished. At the same time, they remain anxious that if they spend freely, they may soon run out. This is precisely the state of the Western world today, which once considered itself to be wealthy and believed that it had ample riches which would never diminish, is now confronted with severe economic challenges. Their economies are crumbling, inflation is rising, the value of the [Pakistani] rupee is falling, the value of the pound is decreasing, and the dollar is also decreasing in value. There is a state of complete chaos and uncertainty, which is why they have imposed numerous restrictions.
In contrast, the treasury of Allah the Almighty remains ever full. When a person stands before Him, all that is required is
unwavering certainty. One must firmly believe that Allah is Omnipotent and His treasures are eternally abundant. They will never deplete. When one develops this certainty, then he ought to seek from Him.
Then, Allah the Almighty has the power to accept prayers and grant them right away. The Promised Messiahas says that one should have certainty they are standing before an All-Hearing, All-Knowing, AllAware and All-Powerful Being. Out of His favour and kindness, may He grant it right away. One should pray with great fervour and not lose hope or despair. In this way, one will soon experience contentment and will attain the ever-increasing favours of God. If one develops this state, they will attain these blessings of Allah the Almighty, and they will find God Himself. This is the method which we must adopt. However, the prayers of the unjust and the transgressors are not accepted because they are negligent of God Almighty. If a son does not care for his father and is undutiful, then the father does not care for him. Why then should God? (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, pp. 400-402)
Hence, the Promised Messiahas states that our Jamaat should establish a true bond with God Almighty and strive to develop the strength of their faith to the degree of certainty. This is the very purpose for which he came. He said that if this purpose is not being fulfilled, then there is no use in pledging allegiance to him.
Thus, we must strive to continue increasing our virtues and establish a special connection with Allah the Almighty. This is the very purpose of our lives, and this is what will help us in realising the success of this Jamaat. This will save us from difficulties and tribulations, and through this, insha-Allah, the Jamaat will continue thriving until it reaches the stage which has been promised by Allah the Almighty.
The Promised Messiahas states that the foremost among the objectives of the Promised Messiah are the signs which Allah the Almighty is exhibiting as a continuation of the signs shown at the time of the Holy Prophetsa. God has outlined the signs of success and also continues to manifest them. The Promised Messiahas says that this is so Allah the Almighty may prove that He listens to our prayers and answers them as well. He shows us these signs to exhibit that His help is with us. Then he says that the second purpose for his coming was to establish a connection between man and God. He says that one of the aspects is for Allah the Almighty, as He promised to the Holy Prophetsa which He is fulfilling. The second aspect has been entrusted to us by Allah the Almighty; to be His grateful servants, to do justice in worshipping Him, and to progress in our faith.” When this happens, then we will reap the blessings of Allah the Almighty and we will be among those who do justice to the very purpose for which we have pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas
The Promised Messiahas states that it is necessary for our Jamaat to increase its faith, to develop true certainty and understanding of Allah the Almighty, to avoid laziness and slackness in doing virtuous deeds. If there is laziness, then even performing ablution seems like a nuisance, let alone offering Tahajjud [pre-dawn voluntary prayers]. If the ability to carry out virtuous deeds is not developed and there is no
passion for vying in good works, then there is no use in associating with him. If we are not bringing about a change within ourselves, if we do not have a passion for doing virtuous deeds, there is no passion for developing the worship of Allah the Almighty or exhibiting lofty morals, then there is no use in pledging allegiance to the Promised Messiahas. He states that only those enter into his Jamaat who consider these teachings to be their code of conduct and strive to act upon them according to their capacities and capabilities. However, those who only [pledge allegiance] in name and do not act according to the teachings, should remember that God Almighty has determined to make this Jamaat special, and no one can remain within this Jamaat simply by having their name written down. There will eventually come the unfortunate time for such a person when he can become distanced, and certainly will. Therefore, as far as it is possible, mould your actions according to the teaching which is given. He says that deeds are like wings – without action, a person cannot soar to the heights of spirituality. As birds fly in the sky with their wings, deeds are also necessary in order to elevate in spiritual rank. It is through deeds that one can soar upwards and draw nearer to Allah the Almighty. One cannot soar to spiritual heights and cannot achieve those lofty purposes which Allah the Almighty has placed beneath them.
The Promised Messiahas states that birds possess understanding and knowledge. If they do not use the knowledge and understanding which Allah the Almighty has placed in their natural disposition, then they would not be able to carry out that which they do. For example, if a honeybee did not possess understanding, it would not be able to draw nectar. Similarly, messenger pigeons (pigeons carrying messages which used to be widely used) have to use their understanding to some degree. They travel very long distances in order to deliver letters. Similarly, birds are made to do wonderful things. Hence, it is necessary for a person to first use their understanding and think as to whether what they are about to do is in accordance with the commandments of Allah the Almighty and whether it is for the sake of His pleasure. When one is mindful of this and uses their understanding, then it is necessary for one to undertake action.
First, one should think and use their understanding that these are virtuous deeds which they must do, and they will have virtuous results. These are the things according to Allah the Almighty’s commandments, and these are not. Then one should act accordingly. One should not be lazy or neglectful. It is necessary to ensure that the teachings are correct. Sometimes, though the teachings can be correct, man, in his foolishness and ignorance, or due to someone else’s mischief and lies is deceived. It can also be at times that Satan deceives a person. It is necessary to understand that sometimes a person can be deceived in regards to this teaching. Hence, it is vital for an Ahmadi that in order to carry out his deeds, one must strive to attain the nearness of Allah the Almighty, and he should clear his mind and think. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 4, pp. 438-440) He should first analyse, ponder over it, pray and then undertake action. The sole purpose should be to attain the pleasure of
Allah the Almighty. When we act according to these things, then we will become those who fulfil the purpose of pledging allegiance to the Promised Messiahas
Then on one occasion, whilst imparting advice about increasing the standard of one’s worship, the Promised Messiahas states that one should take part of Allah the Almighty’s love in full, for in reality this will establish the Unity of God. To this end, where you proclaim that you love Allah the Almighty and that you wish to establish the Unity of God, then it is necessary to prove this. That is why falling before Allah the Almighty, weeping is necessary. When these things happen, then we will be true adherents to the Unity of God and those who act upon it and those who spread it. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 3, p. 187)
Then, elaborating on what it means to love God Almighty, the Promised Messiahas states that It is to give precedence to the pleasure of Allah the Almighty over one’s parents, wife, children, and even one’s own self – in short, over everything. Hence, the Holy Quran states:
Meaning, remember Allah the Exalted as you remember your fathers; rather, remember Him with even greater and deeper love.
The Promised Messiahas further states that now, there is a point here that requires contemplation. God Almighty did not teach that one should refer to Him as the father. He has taught that one should not refer to him as the father, lest one is deceived like the Christians. Now, if someone raises the objection that the aforementioned teaching places the love of God below our love for our fathers, God Almighty has cleared this objection by using the words
. If these words had not been used, this objection would hold weight, but the aforementioned phrase has resolved this potential criticism. That is, Allah the Almighty instructs to remember Him even more than your father.
The Promised Messiahas further states that for the establishment of true divine
“
If you become one with God, rest assured that God too will be yours.
Unity, it is necessary for one to fully partake of love for God Almighty. This love cannot be established until one is complete in the practical aspect. Mere verbal declarations prove nothing. If a person continuously repeats the word ‘sweet’, this would never replace the actual taste of sweetness. One cannot taste sweetness simply by taking the name of sweets. Similarly, if a person who verbally declares and proclaims their friendship for someone, turns away from lending their help and support when the time calls for it, they would not be considered a true friend. In the same way, if the Unity of God is professed only in words and love is expressed in the verbal sense alone, this is of no benefit whatsoever. In fact, this aspect of the teaching requires practical expression more so than verbal profession. This does not mean that verbal affirmation holds no value. The Promised Messiahas said that his purpose is to highlight that verbal declarations must be affirmed with practical expression. Therefore, it is necessary for one to devote their life to God. This is Islam. This is the purpose for which the Promised Messiahas was sent. The one who does not approach this spring at the present time, which God Almighty has caused to flow forth for this purpose, is without question, left deprived. (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 3, pp. 188-189)
The Promised Messiahas said that in order to establish the Unity of Allah the Almighty, you must shape your lives accordingly. This does not necessarily mean that you must formally dedicate your life to the Jamaat. Rather, it implies dedicating your lives to practising the teachings and propagating Allah the Almighty’s message, moulding yourselves in such a manner that it becomes evident your lives are entirely for Allah the Almighty’s sake. It is only by shaping your lives in this way that you can truly succeed. The Promised Messiahas urged us to understand this as the purpose of our lives – not merely to earn worldly gains, but having pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas, you must strive with all your ability to establish and spread the Unity of Allah across the globe. With this
mindset, each member of the Jamaat will actively play their part, striving to raise the banner of Allah the Almighty’s Unity and bring humanity under the banner of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
Thus, during this Ramadan, we have pledged to focus on worship, exemplary morals, performing righteous deeds, and spreading the Unity of Allah the Almighty. However, these efforts must not end with the conclusion of Ramadan; they must continue throughout the year. Only by maintaining this continuity can we achieve the true objective of our lives. Otherwise, the purpose behind pledging allegiance to the Promised Messiahas, as commanded by Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophetsa, will not be fulfilled. We will not be able to achieve this objective and will fail to reap the blessings promised through this pledge of allegiance. Therefore, we must always remember that by pledging allegiance, we committed ourselves to bringing about a distinct transformation within ourselves. The prayers and virtues attained during this Ramadan must become a lifelong part of our lives.
The Promised Messiahas once stated:
“If you continue living like worldly people, it will be of no benefit. You have repented at my hand, and repentance at my hand demands a death, so that you may be given a new life. If your pledge of allegiance does not come from the heart, it will yield no result. In pledging allegiance to me, God desires the testimony of your hearts. Thus, whoever accepts me with a true heart and repents sincerely from their sins, the Forgiving and Merciful God will certainly forgive their sins, making them as pure as a newborn baby. It is at this point that the Angels will then protect him.”
The Promised Messiahas gave an example, “If even one righteous individual exists in a village, Allah the Almighty, out of respect for that person’s piety, spares the village from destruction. However, when destruction arrives, it encompasses everyone, though even then Allah finds ways to protect His servants. It is Allah’s established practice that even one righteous
person becomes a means of salvation for others.” (Malfuzat, 1984, Vol. 3, p. 262)
In light of the current circumstances of the world, whilst we strive to safeguard ourselves, our future progenies, the rest of humanity; and whilst we strive to establish the Unity of God in the world and bring the world under the flag of the Holy Prophetsa, we should also bring about a permanent change within ourselves and make the habit of offering continuous supplications a part of our lives, so that we are able to safeguard ourselves and the world in general.
The world is hurtling towards destruction. And if Allah wills, He can establish such means to reform the world by bringing about a transformation in their hearts, and so they become safeguarded from destruction. And if the destruction is going to take place, then may Allah the Almighty protect the believers and faithful people. In order to be safeguarded from this, it is essential that we should carry out our deeds in such a manner that we continuously receive Allah the Almighty’s grace.
May God grant us the ability to understand how we are to keep our worship alive, how we are to establish a bond with Allah the Almighty, how we are to follow the path of righteousness, how we are to demonstrate high morals, how we are to establish the Oneness of God in the world and how we are to safeguard the world and ourselves from destruction. When we fulfil all of these aspects and instil this understanding, only then can we truly do justice to our pledge of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas. May God enable us to fulfil the due rights of our pledge. May this Ramadan be a source of blessings for us and grant us mercy, grace and blessings. May the remaining days of Ramadan and the coming year until the next Ramadan be such that we fulfil the due rights of our worship of Allah the Almighty and also fulfil the rights of His creation. May Allah the Almighty grant us the ability to do so.
(Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 18 April 2025, pp. 2-7. Translated by The Review of Religions.)