Seven-year-old Mai Abu Arar weighs far less than a healthy toddler. Once lively and joyous, she now takes only liquid food through a syringe in a Gaza hospital. She is among more than 500,000 Palestinians
whom the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification has declared to be experiencing famine. Yet hundreds of aid trucks laden with food sit idle at Gaza’s borders, just miles from the starving.
This proximity of salvation makes Gaza’s crisis uniquely cruel. The food exists. The trucks are loaded. The distribution networks could resume within hours. International donors have provided supplies. Aid workers stand ready. Every element needed to end the suffering waits at the borders. The IPC, which has declared only five famines since 2004, states unequivocally that this one “can be halted and reversed” immediately.
Gaza’s starvation differs fundamentally from historical famines in Sudan, Ethiopia, or Yemen, where vast distances, absent infrastructure, or active combat zones created genuine obstacles. There is no weather calamity or failure of crops. Here, the distance between food and the hungry can be measured in miles, sometimes in metres, an unfortunate situation that can only be described as “famine by design”; not the absence of solutions but their deliberate withholding.
The mechanism is precise. A functioning UN system of 400 community distribution points was replaced with just four sites run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation,
Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
Allah’s listening to melodious recitation of the Holy Quran
Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrated: “The Prophetsa said, ‘Allah has not listened attentively to anything as He listens to the Prophet[sa] reciting the Quran with a beautiful, melodious voice.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab fada’ili l-qur’an, Bab mun lum yataghanna
“However, the miracle with which God Almighty has blessed the Holy Quran is its sublime moral teaching and values of social interaction, and its eloquence and articulacy, which are all things that no man can match in the least. So too is the case with its miracle that relates to news of the unseen and prophecy. In this era, no master magician claims to be able to do such things at all. In this manner, Allah the Almighty has granted my signs a clear distinction, so that no one is left with any room for excuse or objection. Thus, God Almighty has manifested His signs so openly and distinctly that there is no place for any
bil-qur’an, Hadith 5024)
Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words
The Miracle of the Holy Quran
This Week in History
29 August
29 August 1947: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a Friday sermon from Masjid Mubarak, Qadian, which proved to be his last address in this blessed mosque. During his sermon, Huzoorra drew the attention of Jamaat members towards particular topics and instructed them to pray for them regularly and fervently. (Khutbat-eMahmood, Vol. 28, p. 266)
29 August 1988: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh addressed a reception that was held in his honour at the Intercontinental Hotel
ceremony, an important meeting of Ahmadi doctors took place in which the ‘World Ahmadiyya Medical Association’ was established. Colonel Dr Ataullah Sahib was appointed as its president. (Daily Al Fazl, Rabwah, 2 September 1970, p. 8)
For more details, see “Nusrat Jehan Scheme: Khilafat’s impetus for ‘Africa to Leap Forward’ – A glimpse into the early years (1970-1982)” at alhakam.org (27 May 2022, Issue 219, p. 17)
30 August 2016:
1 September
1 September 1927: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra 20-point memorandum was published that outlined his proposals for the establishment of peace and harmony between Hindus and Muslims. The text of this important piece was later published in Al Fazl as an appendix on 16 September 1927. The memorandum was sent to the leaders of both parties.
3 September
3 September 1904: The Promised Messiahas was in Lahore. At 7:30 am on this day, a lecture of the Promised Messiahas was read out entitled, “Modern religions in this country and Islam”. It was read out by Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Karim Sialkotira in the presence of the Promised Messiahas. After it was read out, the Promised Messiahas briefly addressed the audience. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 351) To read the text of this lecture, see: alislam.org.
Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. On the same occasion, the Kikuyu translation of the Holy Quran was also unveiled. ( , Vol. 4, p. 849)
V of the “Noor Mosque”, the first Ahmadiyya mosque in the German town of Frankenthal Rhineland-Pfalz.
On this day,
details of the Nusrat Jehan (Leap Forward) scheme, and encouraged them to offer their services in Africa under this scheme. On this very day, before this
On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa laid the foundation stone in the state of
(“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community lays foundation stone for new Mosque in Frankenthal, Germany” pressahmadiyya.com)
On this day, Hazrat delivered a lecture
in Zurich, Switzerland, about the spirit of religion and its basic principles. According to volume 16 of Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat (p. 554), this lecture was given in English.
Hazrat
31 August 2013: On this day, during his second day address at
mentioning Allah’s blessings on the Jamaat, Hazrat Khalifatul
aa announced that during
the past year, Ahmadiyyat had been established in two new countries: Costa Rica and Montenegro.
On this day, a meeting also took place between Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra and the then Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin, at the Viceregal Lodge. The Civil and Military Gazette reported on this on 4 September 1927. (Al Fazl, 13 September 1927, p. 1)
1 September 2006: During his Friday sermon on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa mentioned Master Munawar Ahmad Sahib, who had been martyred in Gujrat, Pakistan. Huzooraa said that members of the Jamaat should remember the sacrifices of martyrs of Ahmadiyyat, since “any sacrifice for the cause of Ahmadiyyat can never go in vain.”
3 September 1947: On this day, Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat, the flag of Ahmadiyyat, was transported to Lahore from Qadian after the partition of British India. Mirza Abdul Ghani Sahib discharged this blessed and historic duty. (Tarikhe-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 10, p. 39)
For more details, see: “Flying high the standard of Islam – Liwae-Ahmadiyyat – the flag of the Jamaat” at alhakam.org (2 August 2019, pp. 6-9).
4 September
2 September
2 September 1904: On this day, after the Jumuah prayer, the Promised Messiahas also delivered a lecture in Lahore. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 2, p. 351)
2 September 1927: According to the report on Hazrat Musleh-eMaud’sra stay in Shimla, published in Al Fazl on this day, a German tourist who had travelled to Turkey, Egypt, Baghdad, Persia, and other places came to meet Huzoorra. After the German tourist’s departure, Khan Muhammad Nawaz Khan, Member of Assembly; Mr Mohsin Mirza, Principal Government College Kamalpur; Headmaster of Chief College Lahore; and Khan Bahadur Abdul Ahad, a retired engineer, had the privilege of meeting Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. (Al Fazl, 2 September 1927, p. 1)
4 September 1931: Maulana Abul Ata Jalandhri, at the behest of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra, left Qadian on 13 August 1931, reached Haifa on this day and took charge of the Palestine mission. Maulana Abul Ata Jalandhri stayed there from September 1931 to the end of January 1936. During this time, this Ahmadiyya mission gained a firmer foothold than before. The Mahmood Mosque in Kababir saw its construction reach completion. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 4, p. 527)
4 September 1965: On this day, an Ahmadiyya mosque in Dayton, Ohio, USA was officially inaugurated. This mosque is the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat’s oldest purpose-built mosque in the USA. Jalsa Salana of the United States was also held in this same mosque in September. (Tarikh-eAhmadiyyat, Vol. 23, p. 48)
Maud V Huzoor in Maud’s
Huzoor
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an Israel-backed organisation. These militarised zones require Palestinians to traverse dangerous distances for food that could be delivered to their neighbourhoods. Since May, 994 Palestinians have been killed near these distribution points, most shot by Israeli forces.
The replacement system appears engineered for failure. Sites open briefly without notice. Recipients must pass military checkpoints, risking death for possible food. The model – likened to “feeding wild animals” – ensures the strong grab supplies while the vulnerable starve. Without tracking recipients, millions of meals are distributed, but no one knows who receives them, enabling diversion from families to armed groups, further leading to accusations of militants using food for themselves.
The math is straightforward. The UN calculates that a minimum of 600 daily trucks could meet basic needs. A fraction, about 36 as of this writing, is permitted. The shortfall is not capacity but permission. Medical supplies sit in warehouses. Potassium chloride, essential for treating malnutrition, waits at checkpoints. Every restricted truck represents a policy choice, not a logistical constraint.
Bread with conditions
Islamic tradition offers an unsettling parallel to Gaza City’s plight. The Prophet Muhammadsa warned of a time when the dajjal (Antichrist) would control sustenance: “With him will be mountains of bread, and people will be in distress except those who follow him.” The hadith continues with chilling relevance: “Whoever follows him, he gives him to eat, but also makes of him an unbeliever.” (Kanz al-Ummal [Arabic], 1981, Vol. 14, p. 325, Hadith 38819)
This prophecy finds eerie reflection in Gaza’s reality. Food exists in abundance, literal mountains of bread and supplies at the borders, while the population starves. The message is unmistakable: compliance brings sustenance, resistance brings hunger. The parallel extends beyond metaphor. Just as the tradition describes people choosing between faith and food, Gazans face impossible choices: risk death at militarised distribution points, watch children starve, or abandon their land. The withholding of available sustenance becomes not merely a tactic but a test of
will, a forced choice between survival and surrender.
The human cost
Behind each statistic lies preventable suffering. The Gaza health ministry reports 289 starvation deaths, including 115 children. These exclude those dying from infections that overwhelm malnourished bodies. Between 37 and 69 per cent of Gaza’s population faces emergency or catastrophelevel food insecurity – exceeding recorded peaks in South Sudan, Yemen, or Somalia.
Atef Abu Khater, 17, previously healthy, now lies dying from malnutrition. His father watches helplessly, having lost all income, unable to afford food that exists abundantly outside Gaza. Mohammed al-Mutawaq, 18 months old, suffers from severe malnutrition after his father was killed while seeking food. His mother, surviving on one daily meal when available, cannot produce milk. The formula exists in adjacent countries but cannot be shared across the border.
The brutal logic of survival destroys anyone who tries to defy it. Twenty-year-old Ahmadi Muslim, Mahmood Abu Awwad, was killed by an Israeli drone strike while gathering food to help the starving men, women and children around him, dying in the act of seeking the very sustenance that sits waiting at the borders. His death exemplifies the impossible trap: stay home and starve, or venture out for food and risk assassination from above.
Families report eating leaves while food trucks idle nearby. Hospital staff subsist on spoonfuls of rice while treating patients who seek intravenous glucose for hunger pangs. Parents face an impossible choice: risk death reaching militarised aid sites or watch children slowly starve while warehouses remain full miles away.
The proximity intensifies the cruelty. This is not remote suffering but starvation within sight of plenty. As one Gaza City resident explained, she lacks the strength to stand in aid lines while food that could be delivered safely sits at checkpoints.
Humanity denied
The withholding of available food violates principles predating modern law. Islamic jurisprudence explicitly forbids preventing access to food. Hazrat Abu Bakrra instructed armies: “Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place.”
(Al-Muwatta of Imam Malik, translated by Aisha Bewley, 2014, p. 329)
The Quran commands feeding the hungry as a sacred duty: “We feed you for Allah’s pleasure [only].” (Surah ad-Dahr, Ch.76: V:10) Similarly, during historical famines, Hazrat Umarra suspended some criminal punishments, recognising the power of desperation. (‘Umar ibn al-Khattab: His Life and Times, 2007, Vol. 1, pp. 421422) In the current Israel-Palestinian war, the fact that food is available but withheld makes the current violations particularly cruel.
The seventh-century siege of Shi’b Abu Talib offers a historical parallel. Early Muslims, blockaded for three years, ate leaves while food existed outside their valley. Children’s hungry cries moved even enemies to secretly provide supplies. That such tactics were considered unconscionable fourteen centuries ago makes their modern deployment particularly damning.
Today’s nations are not merely bound by ancient moral codes but by explicit legal commitments. As signatories to the UN Charter’s Article 25 guaranteeing an adequate standard of living, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, whose Article 11 recognises “the fundamental right of everyone to be free from hunger.” That starvation tactics deemed barbaric in the seventh century persist despite these binding treaties represents not progress but profound moral regression.
Institutional failure
International responses demonstrate rhetoric without action. Britain’s Foreign Secretary called the famine a “moral outrage” from Israel’s “refusal to allow sufficient aid.” The UN Secretary-General cited “unequivocal obligations under international law.” Yet convoys remain stationary, and Countries remain idle, with no more than lip service.
The United States, capable of ensuring aid delivery through diplomatic pressure, has remained notably silent since the famine declaration. The UN accepts Israeli restrictions, requiring permission for trucks which are hundreds of miles from Israeli forces. Aid agencies face the absurdity of being blamed for distribution failures while being denied distribution means.
Israel responds with familiar denial patterns: disputing numbers, blaming Hamas, and publicising images of uncollected aid. Officials claim that food is awaiting collection while preventing its distribution. They cite insufficient data from areas where they block data collection. None of these claims can contradict the eyewitness accounts of human catastrophe developing daily on the grounds of Gaza.
International law clearly defines “intentionally using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare” as a war crime. UN experts state resulting deaths may constitute wilful killing. Legal clarity exists; enforcement does not.
The immediate test of humanity
Every hour of delay while solutions sit ready represents a stark choice. The IPC warns that without implementation of available remedies, “avoidable deaths will increase exponentially.” The path forward requires
Continued from page 1
doubt or suspicion to find its way in.”
An individual submitted to the Promised Messiahas that someone had raised the objection that Mirza Sahib was the one who had Lekhram murdered. To this the Promised Messiahas said: “That is absurd and false. These people should at least stop to consider why the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, had Abu Rafi and Ka’b killed?”
The Promised Messiahas said: “Our prophecies are ones which can be seen to possess divine power and this is a sign that demonstrates that they are from Allah the Exalted.”
no innovation: open crossings, restore distribution networks, and ensure safe passage. Trucks are fuelled. Drivers wait. Food will not spoil today or tomorrow.
We shall see whether international humanitarian law has any relevance when solutions are immediate and available. If half a million people can starve while food waits at borders, then the post-World War II or any semblance of a new order has collapsed not from inability but unwillingness of developed nations.
There will be a cost paid over centuries. Beyond individual suffering lies societal disintegration. Experts describe famine as “the death rattle of society.” Ireland’s Great Famine produced a century of silence. But Gaza’s trauma will be unique in the sense that rescue was always within reach, always possible, always withheld.
The “moral stain” will attach not only to those who restricted food but to those who could have insisted on its delivery. As scholars note, societies that inflict starvation create “ethics-free zones” where moral constraints dissolve. But Gaza represents something worse: the preservation of suffering when its relief requires only permission.
For all its perceived intricacies and false narratives, Gaza’s crisis is not complex. Food exists. Transport exists. Distribution networks can resume. Medical supplies await. The tragedy lies not in absence but in withholding, not in impossibility but in decision. If loaded trucks cannot travel a few miles to feed the starving, if available medicine cannot reach dying children, then humanitarianism has become performance art while humanity itself is denied.
The architecture of deliberate starvation being built in Gaza consists not of walls or weapons but of signatures withheld from permits that could be signed today. The mountains of bread foretold in prophecy sit at the borders, awaiting only the stroke of a pen to reach those who starve in their shadow. Is it not a famine by design?
(Fazal Masood Malik & Farhan Khokhar Canada)
(Malfuzat [English], Vol. 2, p. 103)
Answers to Everyday Issues
Instalment pricing and interest, condolences for an ex-spouse, masah in wudu, applying kohl while fasting and universal mercy of the Holy Prophet
Guidance regarding basic Islamic issues that Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, has given on various occasions in his written correspondence and during MTA programmes is being published officially below for everyone’s benefit.
Is charging a higher price for items sold on instalments considered interest [riba] in Islam?
Someone from Kerala, India, wrote to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, and asked: “If an item is purchased on an instalment plan and the total amount paid in instalments is greater than the item’s principal price, would this fall within the scope of interest [riba]?”
In his letter dated 12 April 2023, Huzoor-e-Anwaraa provided the following answer to this question:
“There is no harm in a price differential for goods sold for cash versus on an instalment basis and charging a somewhat higher price for instalments does not fall into the category of interest. This is because, in such a case, the shopkeeper has to maintain a formal record of customers who purchase items on instalments and may also have to issue them reminders for their payments, which will certainly consume their time. In worldly affairs, time also has a value; indeed, salaried professionals receive large salaries precisely for their time.
“A question of this nature was also presented to the Promised Messiahas. The Badr newspaper published an announcement stating:
“‘The smooth running of the newspaper would be facilitated if the subscription price were received in advance. Among those who do not pay in advance and make promises of later payment, some simply delay on the basis of promises alone, while for others, the recovery of payments involves such difficulty – through repeated correspondence and the keeping of records to collect the payments from them – that in order to mitigate this additional labour and loss to some extent and also to receive compensation for it, the price of the Badr newspaper for post-payment has been increased by one rupee; that is, from those who pay afterwards, the price of the newspaper would be collected as four rupees instead of three.
“‘Upon this, a friend from Lyallpur enquired whether this arrangement constituted interest. As this was a matter pertaining to Islamic law, it was presented to the Promised Messiahas with the aforementioned reasons. The reply that he wrote is reproduced below:
“‘‘Assalamu ‘alaikum. In my view, this
has no connection to interest. The owner has the right to ask for whatever price he wishes, especially as there is also an inconvenience involved in collecting payment later. If a person wishes to receive the newspaper, they can also pay beforehand. This matter lies within his own choice. Wassalam. Mirza Ghulam Ahmad.’’ (Badr, Qadian, No. 7, Vol. 6, 14 February 1907, p. 4)
“Therefore, it is permissible for a shopkeeper to charge a somewhat higher price for the sale of goods on an instalment basis and this does not fall into the category of interest [riba].”
Is it permissible in Islam for a man to receive condolences for the death of his ex-wife?
Someone wrote to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa: “My husband’s former wife, from whom he has three children, passed away a few days ago. Is it permissible for my husband to receive condolences for his former wife?”
In his letter dated 12 April 2023, Huzoor-e-Anwaraa provided the following guidance on this matter:
“When a person passes away, it is common for people to offer condolences to the deceased’s distant and near relatives, their loved ones and even their friends and associates. In the offering and receiving of these condolences, the sharia has not imposed any restriction based on one being a mahram or a non-mahram
“Therefore, if someone has offered condolences to your husband on the death of his former wife – who had obtained a divorce from him some time ago – and your husband has responded to these condolences, there is no harm in it. This is especially so because your husband also has three children from the deceased lady. Thus, given that the deceased was the mother of your
husband’s children, there is no cause for objection or prohibition if he has accepted condolences on her passing.”
What is the correct way to perform masah of the head and neck during wudu?
A missionary sent the following enquiry to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa: “Regarding the wiping of the head [masah] during ablution [wudu], some Jamaat books mention passing the hands over the neck, while others do not. What is the correct method?”
In his letter dated 12 April 2023, Huzoore-Anwaraa provided the following guidance on this question:
“Regarding the wiping of the head during wudu, various methods are described in the ahadith, as you have also noted in your letter. For instance, some mention the wiping of the front and back parts of the head. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-wudu’, Bab mun madmada wa-stanshaqa min gharfatin wahidah) Others mention beginning the masah from the front part of the head, taking the hands back to the nape of the neck and then bringing them forward again.
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-wudu’, Bab mashi r-ra’si kullih). Some ahadith also mention wiping the inside and outside of the ears, while others mention wiping the temples. (Sunan Abi Dawud, Kitab at-taharah, Bab sifati wudu’i n-nabiyyisa).
“On the basis of these ahadith, Islamic scholars and jurists hold that masah of the head is necessary, but there is disagreement among them as to how much of the head should be wiped. According to Hazrat Imam al-Bukharirh and Hazrat Imam Malikrh, it is necessary to wipe the entire head, whereas Hazrat Imam Abu Hanifahrh and Hazrat Imam Shafi‘irh consider the wiping of a part of the head to be sufficient. (Sharh Sahih al-Bukhari by Hazrat Syed Zain-ul-Abidin Waliullah Shahra, Vol. 1, p. 274)
“Similarly, there is also disagreement among the jurists regarding the inclusion of the neck in the wiping of the head. Thus, according to the Hanafis, wiping the neck is a mustahabb or recommended act. However, according to the other three Imams, i.e., Hazrat Imam Malikrh, Hazrat Imam Shafi‘irh and Hazrat Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbalrh, wiping the neck is not considered mustahabb
“Describing the details and wisdom of wudu, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra stated the following concerning masah:
“‘Having wet the hands, between onethird and two-thirds of the hair on the head is wiped. Then, with the finger next to the thumb, the cavities of the ears are
moistened and the thumbs are passed over the back of the ears so that the back of the ears also becomes wet. […] Heat in the head can cause thoughts to become very scattered. For this reason, the wiping of the head has been prescribed, which cools the head, dispels its heat and is conducive to the concentration of thoughts.’ (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, UK: 2023, pp. 159-160)
“In my view, the mention in the ahadith of wiping over the nape of the neck is in fact the wiping of the neck itself. Therefore, whether one begins the masah from the front of the head and takes the hands back to the nape, i.e., the neck and then wipes the inside and outside of the ears with the thumb and finger; or, as is mentioned in some books with greater detail, one wipes the head with the front part of the hands, passes the index fingers inside the ears and the thumbs on the back of the ears and finally wipes the neck by passing the back of the hands over it – whichever of these methods one adopts, their masah of the head will be complete.”
What is the ruling on applying kohl or surmah while fasting?
A missionary wrote to Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, that regarding the application of kohl [surmah] during a fast, a lady had told him that she was born and raised in Rabwah but had never heard that kohl should not be applied during a fast and that there was also an article on Alislam. org in which it was written that a woman could apply kohl while fasting. The missionary added that the Promised Messiahas had, however, declared it to be a disliked or makruh act and stated, ‘What is the need to apply kohl during the day? One can apply it at night.’ He requested guidance as to whether there is any difference between men and women in applying kohl while fasting, or if the same rule applies to both.
In his letter dated 12 April 2023, Huzoore-Anwaraa provided the following guidance in this regard:
“By the grace of Allah the Exalted, you are a missionary of the Jamaat. You studied at Jamia for seven years and have been blessed with the opportunity to serve as a missionary for many years. It is a matter of some surprise that even after reading all the references you have mentioned in your letter, you would express a state of uncertainty about this issue based on the unsubstantiated statement of a lady.
“You ought to have stated with full conviction that the Promised Messiahas, who is the Just Arbiter [Hakam ‘Adl] of this age, has provided an unequivocal answer on this matter, which is also supported by a hadith of the Holy Prophetsa: a fasting person (be it
a man or a woman) is not permitted to apply kohl while fasting. And this is the same answer I have previously given, which has been published in the ‘Answers to Everyday Issues’ column [of Al Hakam].
“As for the mention of an article on the Alislam.org website that states a contrary position without any proof, that position is neither that of the Promised Messiahas, nor of any of his Khulafa’, nor is it a ruling of the Mufti-i-Silsilah, the mufti of the Jamaat. If someone has written such a thing in their article, it may be their personal opinion, but it cannot be considered the official position of the Jamaat.
“In any case, I am instructing the administration of the Alislam.org website to correct this error. Likewise, an incorrect answer regarding this matter is also recorded in the book Fiqh-e-Ahmadiyya. The relevant department is being directed to ensure its correction.
“In fact, several matters have been recorded in Fiqh-e-Ahmadiyya that require correction. It is for this reason that a revision of Fiqh-e-Ahmadiyya is underway. When the revised edition of Fiqh-e-Ahmadiyya is published, this passage, insha-Allah, will also be rectified.”
How does the Holy Prophet Muhammad’ssa title ‘Mercy for All Worlds’ apply to the entire universe?
A lady from Norway asked Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa: “How will the Holy Prophet’ssa status as the “Mercy for All Worlds” or “Rahmatul-lil-‘Alamin” be manifested for this infinite universe? Will this manifestation occur before the Day of Judgement, or will the system of this world and the hereafter be established anew for it? And if this manifestation occurs through the angels, how will the Holy Prophet’ssa station be proven therein?”
In his letter dated 14 April 2023, Huzoore-Anwaraa provided the following answer to this question:
“In this world, the manifestation of the Holy Prophet’ssa mercy and compassion extended to all types of God’s creation –friend and foe, humans and animals and even flora and minerals, trees and mountains – the accounts of which fill the books of hadith and Prophetic biography [sirah]. And for the manifestation of his mercy in the life to come, Allah the Exalted has granted him permission to intercede [shafa‘ah]. Furthermore, his mercy and compassion for all of humankind on the Day of Judgement are described in the hadith which mentions that on that Day, people beset by anxiety and hardship will go to Hazrat Adamas, then Hazrat Nuhas, then Hazrat Ibrahimas, then Hazrat Musaas and then Hazrat Isaas and will say, ‘Do you not see the predicament we are in and the great affliction that has seized us? Will you not intercede for us in the court of your Lord?’ But all these Prophets will state some excuse of their own. Then the people will come to the Holy Prophetsa and, upon seeing their suffering, he will fall into prostration before his Lord, declaring His praise and glory and will intercede for them, having them delivered from their afflictions. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab at-tafsir, Bab ‘dhurriyyata mun hamalna ma‘a nuhin innahu kana ‘abdan shakura’)
“Thus, regarding both this world and the next, Allah the Exalted has given us
knowledge and informed us of the Holy Prophet’ssa mercy and compassion within them. As for the future, when the secrets of the universe are revealed to mankind, if any new world or new creation is discovered therein, only then will mankind be able to know of the reflection of the Holy Prophet’ssa mercy and compassion upon that new world and new creation. It is for this reason that I said in my virtual mulaqat with the members of Lajna and the nasirat of your country that when we gain access to other planets where there is a population and when we convey the message of the Holy Prophetsa to them, then [the dwellers of] those planets will also be included in his mercy. At present, we have not even properly conveyed the message of the Holy Prophetsa here on our own earth and yet we speak of other planets. Therefore, the Holy Prophetsa is the Rahmatul-lil-‘Alamin as far as his message has reached. Allah the Exalted is the Lord of All Worlds [Rabb-ul-‘Alamin] and the manifestation of His Lordship is present throughout the entire universe, in all the thousands and millions of galaxies. However, the message of the Holy Prophetsa is currently only on this earth and when his message reaches other places, the reflection of his mercy will begin there as well.
“Furthermore, the sharia brought by the Holy Prophetsa is, in one respect, also a manifestation of his being the Rahmatullil-‘Alamin, because such a perfect and everlasting law was neither given to any Prophet before him, nor can it be given to anyone until the Day of Judgement. And since God the Exalted Himself has taken the responsibility for its preservation and protection, wherever the teachings set forth in this law reach, creation will continue to benefit from the mercy of the Holy Prophetsa
“Regarding the Holy Prophet’ssa status as the Rahmatul-lil-‘Alamin, the Promised Messiahas, stating a most excellent point, says:
“‘Allah the Exalted states, ‘O Prophet! We have sent thee as a mercy for all the worlds.’ His being the Rahmatul-lil-‘Alamin [i.e., mercy for all the worlds] is properly understood only in relation to the divine attribute of Graciousness [Rahmaniyyat], because Mercifulness [Rahimiyyat] is specific only to the one world of the believers.’ (I‘jaz-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 18, p. 118, footnote)
“The difference between the attributes of Rahmaniyyat and Rahimiyyat is that under the attribute of Rahmaniyyat comes the treatment of mercy that is shown to humans, animals, creatures of land and air, trees, the wind, mountains – in short, to any object in the universe – which has no connection to any deed or effort on the part of that creation. Rather, that mercy flows without any recompense. For example, for the sake of mankind, Allah the Exalted created the earth and its environment millions of years before mankind’s own creation. Or He fashioned the womb within the mother’s body, the vessel in which the genesis of his creation was to occur.
“In contrast, under the attribute of Rahimiyyat comes the mercy that is a result of someone’s effort or deed. For instance, when a person performs a good deed, Allah the Exalted sends down His mercy upon them in return.
“Thus, from this statement of the Promised Messiahas, this subject also
becomes clear: just as the attribute of Allah the Exalted’s Lordship [Rububiyyat] is spread over the entire universe and every particle of the universe is receiving a portion from this Rububiyyat without any effort or action, in the same way, the mercy of the Holy Prophetsa also encompasses the entire
universe. Wherever any human, land or air creature, mountain, tree, flora, or mineral – in short, any particle of the universe –wishes to benefit from this mercy, it can gain from it under his attribute of Rahmaniyyat In contrast, the mercy that flows under his attribute of Rahimiyyat will continue to be obtained by creation as a result of acting upon the teachings he brought. Wherever the message of the teachings he brought reaches and the creation there acts upon it, they too will continue to receive a portion from his mercy.”
(Compiled by Zaheer Ahmad Khan, Head of Records Department, Private Secretariat, London and translated by Al Hakam)
NEWS
Tabligh tour held by MKA Norway
Abdul Hadi Masood Missionary, Norway
On 3 July 2025, a delegation of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Norway set out on a peace tour across the south of Norway. The purpose of the tour was to promote unity, understanding, and interfaith dialogue.
On the first day, the delegation met with many religious leaders from different churches and organisations, including mayors of Horten, Tønsberg, Larvik and Skien, and six priests across four different locations.
The first stop was in Horten, where around 20 members warmly welcomed
the delegation. After that, the delegation continued to Tønsberg, then Larvik and finally the last stop of the day, which was in Skien.
At each stop, Missionary-In-charge Norway, Musawer Shahid Sahib, presented the mayors with a copy of the Holy Quran with the Norwegian translation.
On 4 and 5 July, tabligh stalls were set up in Kristiansand and Arendal. Locals and tourists were invited to learn more about Islam through friendly and open conversations.
Then, on 6 July, the delegation visited Nissedal, where they had a discussion with the mayor and the head of integration.
33rd ijtema held by Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium
Mohammad Arsalan
Belgium Correspondent
Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium held its 33rd ijtema on 8-10 August 2025 at the Bait-us-Salaam Mosque in Dilbeek.
The highlight of the ijtema was the special message received from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. This message was translated into Dutch and French and published in the form of a booklet, which was distributed to khuddam and atfal during the ijtema
The message was read out by Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Belgium, Asif Bin Owais Sahib, during the inaugural session.
Before the opening session, Jumuah prayer was offered and the live Friday sermon of Huzooraa was listened to in the Ijtema Gah. After the flag-hoisting ceremony, the ijtema commenced with an inaugural session chaired by Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Belgium, Dr Idrees Ahmad Sahib. After a recitation from the Holy Quran, khuddam pledge and nazm, Sadr Majlis welcomed the attendees and explained the purpose of holding such events. Afterwards, Amir Sahib addressed the attendees and offered guidance. The inaugural session was then concluded with a silent prayer.
All prayers were offered in congregation during the ijtema, and on Saturday and Sunday, special arrangements were made for congregational Tahajjud prayers.
This year’s ijtema consisted of various academic and sports competitions. The ijtema included a Khuddam Hub, a food stall and the newly introduced MKA shop, where members could buy MKA Belgium merch, literature of the Jamaat and many other interesting products, such as miniature replicas of Minarat-ul-Masih.
On Sunday, the ijtema concluded with the final session chaired by MissionaryIn-Charge Jamaat Belgium, Tuseef Ahmad Sahib. The final session also consisted of the award ceremony, including Alam-e-In’ami The ijtema then concluded with speeches by Sadr MKA Belgium and Missionary-InCharge Belgium.
From Africa to England to Palestine: Reports of Ahmadi missionaries (1925)
Hakeem Fazl-ur-Rahman Sahib (1901-1955)
Africa
Alhamdulillah, the accumulation of work that had piled up owing to my journey to England has now been cleared and, by the grace of Allah, I have regained control over my duties.
At present, the region is experiencing heavy and continuous rainfall. Consequently, the soil has become loose and unstable and the condition of the roads has greatly deteriorated due to the burden of heavy motor lorries. For this reason, during the rainy season, all roads are closed under the Department of Public Works and the movement of motor vehicles is suspended – except in cases of urgent necessity, where only very light vehicles may be permitted.
As a result, my travels and direct work with the jamaats are presently halted and my activities are restricted to the town of Saltpond. My efforts here are mainly confined to teaching and supervising the madrasah [school].
At present, the Talim-ul-Islam Ahmadiyya School in Saltpond employs seven teachers, four of whom are Muslims. I am personally engaged in teaching these four, along with the mission secretary, so that they may be prepared and dispatched for preaching as required. In addition, I am instructing three other young men specifically for the purpose of tabligh [preaching of Islam]. I pray to Allah Almighty that He may grant me the ability to impart such knowledge as will prove beneficial and fruitful for the Jamaat and may He grant these individuals sincerity in their learning so that they may serve the cause of Allah’s religion.
Inspection by government officials
By the grace of Allah, the school is making progress. The Deputy Minister of Education and the former District Commissioner have both inspected it. They left highly pleased and content and assured me of every possible support. I am striving to have the school included on the list of governmentaided institutions at the earliest opportunity. Presently, around £25 per month is required to pay the salaries of the teachers, a burden borne by the local jamaats. However, without Allah’s grace, this expenditure far exceeds our present capacity. Furthermore, the construction of a dedicated school building is imperative, for without it,
government aid cannot be secured. This requires, first, the purchase of land and then the erection of the building – both tasks demanding considerable financial resources.
As I have written on several occasions, the strengthening of this school will, inshaAllah, bring manifold benefits to the Jamaat. I therefore humbly request the prayers of friends in this regard.
Need for Islamic hymns in English
One of the school’s pressing needs is the composition of short poems in English. I humbly request our educated friends, proficient in English and skilled in poetry, to compose brief poems. These should concisely convey Islamic teachings and other matters beneficial for children –essentially serving the function of hymns. I intend to have such a collection printed.
In this region, singing forms a part of the school curriculum, with formal examinations conducted and the government grants special support for this subject. Clearly, we cannot teach our children Christian hymns. Since one of the fundamental purposes of the school is to open a path for tabligh, the preparation of short Islamic hymns is an urgent necessity. These poems may later be translated into the local language and published for the benefit of the wider community. Some Christian ministers here, with whom I maintain cordial relations, are themselves accomplished poets. I have already given one such friend the poem of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih [IIra], “nawnehalan-e-jamaat mujhe kuch kehna hai”, for translation into the local language. However, we are in need of many such poems and I therefore request friends most earnestly to turn their attention to this matter.
Translation of salat
I have also entrusted the salat [prayer] book for translation into the local language. Its publication, however, will require financial resources. Allah the Almighty alone is the true Sustainer. This will be the very first book of Ahmadiyya literature to be published in the language of this country and its dissemination will be an honour granted by Allah the Almighty to the African Ahmadis.
Acquisition of land for mosque and mission
Another noteworthy service of the members
in the Gold Coast is that, through great effort, they have purchased a plot of land measuring approximately three and a half kanals [5445 sq ft] for the purpose of constructing a mosque and mission house. The cost amounted to nearly £182. At present, efforts are also underway to acquire land for the school, though financial means are lacking. We pray that Allah the Almighty may grant us His help in this regard.
Hospitality of Sindhi merchants
Recently, four Sindhi merchants stayed as my guests for five days. These friends had previously been working at the Dialdas and Sons factory in Accra, where both I and respected Nayyar Sahib[ra] would often stay as their guests whenever visiting the city. That factory has now been closed and these friends are returning to India. Consequently, I had the honour of hosting my former hosts and was pleased to be able to serve them. Before their departure, Lala Topan Das Sahib kindly gave one pound in cash for the distribution of sweets among the school children and presented a beautiful lamp to be placed in the mosque for illumination. May Allah the Almighty reward him abundantly.
London
Maulvi Abdul Rahim Sahib Dard[ra] MA and Maulvi Ghulam Farid Sahib Malik[ra] MA, are both diligently fulfilling their duty of conveying the message of truth. Brother Azizuddin Sahib, manager of the Natal House, also delivers speeches in his spare time, alongside his business commitments.
The July issue of The Review of Religions has been published. It contains a photograph of the Umar Mosque in Jerusalem, showing Hazrat Fazl-e-Umar, Khalifatul Masih II[ra], standing before the monument of Syedna Umarra, the second Khalifa [of the Holy Prophetsa].
Preparatory arrangements are also underway for the construction of the London Mosque. Maulvi Muhammad Din Sahib[ra] BA, is actively engaged in delivering lectures in various learned societies. He has published an excellent list of subjects for his lectures, accompanied by his photograph. The local work in Chicago continues as usual.
Trinidad and the West Indies
Sheikh Ibrahim Mendez, missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, writes
from San Juan, Trinidad and the West Indies:
“I am pleased to inform Hazrat Khalifatul Masih [IIra] that the work of tabligh in Trinidad is progressing remarkably. Among the most recent converts is our friend Luther Stewart, now known as Abdul Sadiq. He serves as the muezzin at the El Socorro Mosque, where he pleasantly calls the adhan five times a day. I humbly request prayers for the success of the Trinidad Mission. My own prayer is that Allah’s blessings may descend upon the Ahmadiyya Community across the entire world.”
Holland
Our devoted sister, Miss Hidayat Bud, extends felicitations to the Community on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, 1344 AH, from Holland. She writes that Maulvi Dard Sahib[ra] will, insha-Allah, visit Holland in September to deliver lectures. She further notes that the issue of khatm-e-nubuwwat (Seal of the Prophets) had recently weighed heavily upon her mind, but as she had written earlier, Allah supported her and granted her understanding of the truth. Our sister has also forwarded extracts from certain Dutch newspapers. These indicate that the true faith of Islam has reached not only Sumatra and Java but also the islands of Celebes and New Guinea in the Dutch colonies. However, Christian missionaries are making great efforts to hinder the progress of Islam and to quickly establish control over the idolatrous populations, for once Islam gains ground, the spread of Christianity is halted. The Nazarat Da‘wat-o-Tabligh [Department of Propagation and Preaching] is turning its attention towards the Dutch colonies and, by the grace of Allah, we hope to soon be in a position to publish good news of success.
Australia
Our respected friend, Maulvi Hasan Musa Khan, has not been enjoying good health, yet he continues to devote himself with full effort to the propagation of Allah’s religion. The Australia Jamaat has also participated in the special scheme of One Hundred Thousand. They have contributed a sum of £11 and 10 shillings. May Allah the Almighty reward them abundantly.
Nigeria
In the Igbo-land region of Nigeria, a new Ahmadiyya Jamaat has been established. 100 years ago...
Imam Shamsuddin has been sent there from Kano. Remarkably, upon the arrival of a young Ahmadi, the entire youth of the village abandoned the Roman Catholic European priest and joined Islam Ahmadiyya. Arrangements are now being made for their proper training and education.
By the grace of Allah, the work in Southern Nigeria is advancing admirably. Brother Junaid Asahani, an esteemed member of the Council of Elders, wrote to Maulvi Abdul Rahim Nayyar[ra]:
“I pray to Allah the Almighty that He may assist you in every way. With the utmost joy I declare that the plant you came here to sow has now extended its branches across the whole of Nigeria. May Allah the Almighty shower His blessings upon you.”
Gold Coast
From the Gold Coast, Maulvi Fazl-urRahman Hakeem writes, after describing his engagements and the progress of work:
“On Empire Day, our schoolchildren, through the neatness of their uniforms and the excellence with which they carried out all tasks, won the hearts of the people. Whereas previously we were met with abuse, now every man and woman speaks in our praise.”
Asian countries
Across different countries in Asia, zealous Ahmadi missionaries, with their very lives at stake, are fulfilling the sacred duty entrusted to them by Allah the Almighty – the defense and preaching of Islam. Everywhere, these self-sacrificing servants of Islam are confronted with the covert intrigues of the Baha’is, the organised campaigns of Christianity and the ignorance of local clerics. Yet they place their hope in Allah that their sacrifices will lead to the triumph of truth.
Persecution in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, the reign of oppression continues. Ahmadiyyat has been declared a state crime. Corrupt officials everywhere arrest people under the pretext of their Ahmadi beliefs, thereby staining their own hands with tyranny. From the prevailing situation, it is evident that those in authority in Afghanistan have no fear of the One God, show no regard for the honour of Islam and remain ignorant of the lessons of world history.
O Ahmadi Community! August has arrived. Remember that on 31 August, our loyal martyr, Maulvi Nematullah Khan, was stoned to death. Reflect upon this event and pray that Allah the Almighty may deliver Afghanistan from the bondage of darkness and ignorance and grant it the freedom of light and guidance.
Egypt
In Cairo, the Eid prayer was led by Sheikh Yaqub Ali Sahib. Sheikh Mahmood Ahmad, missionary to Egypt, writes that a friend named Habibullah is assisting in tabligh and is serving as an honourary missionary. He is presently engaged in spreading the message of Islam in the Cairo region.
Ahmadi missionaries in Palestine
Hazrat Maulana Jalal-ud-Din Shamsra (1901-1966)
On 1 July [1925], our ship departed from Bombay [now Mumbai] and reached Suez on 11 July. During the voyage, I had discussions with several individuals concerning the claim of the Promised Messiahas. Among them were three Arabs from Medina. Syed Zain-ul-Abidin Shah Sahib[ra] also explained to them certain matters and I read aloud portions from the Promised Messiah’sas books Istifta and Mawahib-ur-Rahman. One of them was a scholar. He remarked:
“Long ago, Ahmad Raza Khan Barelvi sought a fatwa of disbelief from the scholars of Medina regarding this claimant. Based on what he had written, they issued the fatwa. But in reality, they had never themselves studied the claimant’s writings. You must send these books here.”
He repeatedly insisted that I give him a copy of the book, but as we had no spare copy, I eventually presented him with the Arabic translation of The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam. He further requested that we maintain regular correspondence.
Arrival in Jerusalem and discussions with scholars
On 13 July we reached Jerusalem, where Shah Sahib’s[ra] friends and students came to meet us. Thereafter, lengthy discussions were held with the Mufti and leading scholars of the city regarding the death of Jesusas, the claim of the Promised Messiahas and the issue of prophethood. They were quick to acknowledge the truth of the death of Jesusas. I then recited the Arabic qasidah of the Promised Messiahas, present in the book A’ina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, composed
in praise of the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him. Upon hearing it, they expressed delight.
A marked difference was observed between the scholars of this land and those of India: Indian scholars quickly lose their temper and cannot tolerate hearing anything contrary to their views, whereas the scholars here listened to our arguments with patience and composure.
Dialogue in Nablus and Quneitra
We departed Jerusalem on 16 July and arrived at Nablus, where we also conversed with several scholars. Shah Sahib[ra] led the discussions. When he cited the verse inni mutawaffika, one cleric insisted that it did not signify death. I then placed before him the commentary Ruh al-Bayan, which clearly states: inni mumituka hatfa anfika la qatlan bi-aydihim [I shall cause you to die a natural death, not by their hands]. He was astonished upon reading it. Similarly, Shah Sahib[ra] cited the hadith concerning the two different descriptions of the appearance [of the Messiah]. The eminent scholar of Nablus, in whose house we had gone especially to meet him, responded: “Such ahadith we cast aside.” When Shah Sahib[ra] informed him, it was found in Sahih Bukhari, he denied it. I then produced Sahih Bukhari and showed him both relevant traditions. Thereafter, we reached Quneitra near sunset. The locals insisted that we stay the night. In the evening, upon their enquiry about the Jamaat, we conveyed the message of truth. The imam of the mosque stated that he only had doubts regarding the issue of prophethood. Shah Sahib[ra] explained the matter to him, upon which he responded: “If this is the meaning of prophethood,
then such a prophet can indeed appear.”
Arrival in Damascus
On 17 July we reached Damascus. For two days, we lodged at the Central Hotel, where Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] had stayed the previous year. Shah Sahib’s[ra] friends and students were present there as well and meetings were held with them concerning the Jamaat. We also had an audience with the Minister of Education. The general disposition of the people is more inclined towards politics, while they remain heedless of religion. In dress and manners, European civilisation has greatly influenced them. Prices are exceedingly high and rents are burdensome; two small rooms cost us £4 per month.
In conclusion, I humbly request that friends constantly remember their brethren abroad in their prayers. We are extremely weak and without the grace of Allah the Almighty and the support of His divine power, nothing can be achieved. Therefore, I earnestly beseech you to supplicate for the spread of Islam Ahmadiyyat in the land of Syria.
[“Our Lord, accept this from us; for Thou hear all prayers.”]
Wassalam, Humble servant in need of prayers, Jalal-ud-Din, Damascus.
(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 11, 13-15 and 18 August 1925 issue of Al Fazl)
Historic and rare photograph of Palestinian Arabs alongside Hazrat Maulana Jalal-ud-Din Shams during their joining of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat
Parenting Gen Z: What we can learn from the Netflix series ‘Adolescence’
Al-Fawaz Ajimoti Student, Jamia Ahmadiyya International Ghana
The Netflix mini-series “Adolescence” made significant headlines across all social media platforms for its powerful storytelling and timely relevance. The four-part British psychological crime drama explores pressing issues currently faced by today’s youth across the globe as it delves into themes such as online radicalisation, toxic masculinity, as well as the psychological impact of unfiltered social media exposure.
The series follows the story of Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old high schooler who was accused, arrested and detained on a murder charge of a fellow female schoolmate, Katie Leonard. CCTV footage appears to capture Jamie fatally stabbing the young girl to death – leading to his swift arrest.
Although the series stops short of fully confirming his guilt, Jamie ultimately agrees to plead guilty, raising unsettling questions about justice, truth, and the pressure within the legal system. For some, his guilt is completely justified, especially considering the fact that it is highly unlikely and preposterous that someone would’ve forged CCTV camera footage against a 13-year-old innocent kid.
Nevertheless, as the investigation on the murder unfolded, there seemed to have been a form of relationship between Jamie and Katie – the victim, or that was at least what the police assumed based on clues found on both parties’ Instagram. In a pivotal moment, it is the son of the lead detective who unravels the mystery for the police by explaining the hidden meaning of the emojis Katie had used against Jamie – revealing a subtle but damaging form of online bullying.
Who would have thought that something as seemingly trivial as a combination of some silly emojis could become a medium of humiliation and emotional manipulation? Yet, for teenagers nowadays, such digital language carries immense psychological weight – sometimes with unbelievably devastating consequences – as in the case of Katie and Jamie, which led to the death of one, and the conviction of another.
At its core, Adolescence highlights the growing disconnect between parents and children in today’s world. Many parents remain unaware of their children’s inner struggles, especially when those struggles are shaped by elements they are themselves oblivious to or do not fully understand, such as the digital space.
For parents, the show also serves as a stark reminder of what we already know, but often overlook: we no longer live in the same world as our children. The world they now live in is a completely different one, one that we can never truly relate to. The age gap
between parents and children has become more than just a number – it reflects a cultural, technological, and emotional divide that must be bridged with active parenting now, more than ever.
Being a Gen Z myself, I am aware of how many hideous things I have done to outsmart my parents, even though I wasn’t very mischievous, and they weren’t careless either. They are, in fact, very keen about our upbringing – mine and my siblings.
Personally, I find it quite amusing that most parents still believe with 100 per cent conviction that they know their children very well, and that they are fully aware of their children’s activities on their phones and tablets. Especially because, in their own words, “they regularly check their children’s digital footprints.”
Well, sorry to be the bearer of the bad news, but I’ve been there as well. In fact, my digital and social media activities fully started on my mother’s phone – not even mine. And unless she reads this article, she would never really know.
And no, she wasn’t careless, not even a bit. But I wasn’t dumb either. Despite her overly carefulness, what she would see whenever she checks is her filial son reading some write-ups online, even though that’s not all I do with her phone. Changing tabs is only a matter of a single tap on the screen after all.
Although what I used her phone for was not necessarily immoral, how do I explain to my Gen X mother that an hour on social media is not that harmful, especially when I was still a high schooler? However, this was all a very long time ago, and teenagers nowadays are far more advanced than they were then.
We now live in a world where kids attach magnetic reeds to their room doors, which automatically shut down their screens whenever anyone opens the room door from outside. Others attach spoons to their computer screens so they can see the reflection of their parents if they try to sneak up on them.
The million-dollar question, however, is – what is the way forward in the parenting game?
Abandoning conventional ways: The way forward?
It is often said that “desperate times call for desperate measures.” And now
that we are in a desperate time – the kind that has never been seen before in the past, it is clear that we must abandon old, conventional parenting methods and adopt new approaches.
Fortunately, for us Muslims, we don’t really have to search for new measures; all we have to do is follow the timeless principles that have already been laid down for us by Allah and practised by the Prophetsas
Below are some guiding principles on parenting as highlighted by the Holy Quran:
Education
Parents need to instil, from a very tender age, the sense of responsibility in their children – the consciousness of what is good or bad. So that even in their absence, the children would still do the right thing. Not because of the fear of their parents, but because they know it is morally the right thing to do.
We see the perfect example of this in the story of Hazrat Luqmanas in the Holy Quran, where he teaches his son the basic dos and don’ts of both morality and spirituality.
He teaches his son to observe prayers, enjoin good, forbid evil, and bear calamities with patience. And then teaches him not to associate partners with God or be arrogant – in words, deeds and even in walk. (Surah Luqman, Ch.31: V.14-20)
Engagement and dialogue
Similarly, it is essential that parents give their children the opportunity to open up to them about whatever is bothering them. This can only be achieved if parents build a safe and trusting environment where children feel heard and not judged. Open dialogue strengthens the parent-child bond and helps prevent children from seeking potentially harmful outlets elsewhere.
A beautiful example of this in the Holy Quran is found in the story of Prophet Yaqubas and his son, Yusufas. When young Yusuf had a strange dream, he did not hesitate to share it with his father. We read in the Holy Quran:
“Remember the time when Joseph said to his father, ‘O my father, I saw in a dream eleven stars and the sun and the moon, I saw them making obeisance to me.’” (Surah Yusuf, Ch.12: V.5)
This open communication was only possible because Yusufas trusted his father and knew he would be understood. Prophet Yaqubas, in turn, responded with wisdom and love, warning him gently and guiding him on the next course of action.
This teaches that children are more likely to seek advice from their parents when they feel emotionally safe and understood – something parents must actively nurture through sincere dialogue and constant engagement.
Walk the talk
Actions, they say, speak louder than words. Instead of simply telling kids what to do, it is more impactful to show them. Kids generally learn by imitation. They pick up everything their parents do. Their style of walking, their mode of dressing, basically everything. Therefore, parents should be good role models for their children.
Allah the Almighty admonishes:
“O ye who believe! Why do you say what you do not do? Most hateful is it in the sight of Allah that you say what you do not do.”
(Surah as-Saff, Ch.61: V.3–4)
The Holy Quran also certifies the Holy Prophetsa as the most perfect example of this. It states:
“And thou dost surely possess high moral excellences.” (Surah al-Qalam, Ch. 68: V. 5)
Prayer
The most important thing a parent can do for their children is prayer, for a parent’s prayer for their children never goes unanswered. And what prayer could possibly be better than the one prescribed by Allah the Almighty Himself? Allah the Almighty teaches us to say:
“Our Lord, grant us of our wives and children the delight of our eyes, and make us a model for the righteous.” (Surah alFurqan, Ch.25: V.75)
“My Lord, make me observe Prayer, and my children too. Our Lord! Bestow Thy grace on me and accept my prayer” (Surah Ibrahim, Ch.15: V.41)
It is when parents offer such prayers with sincerity that they are blessed with their children’s prayer in return, even after they are long gone:
“Our Lord, grant forgiveness to me and to my parents and to the believers on the day when the reckoning will take place.” (Surah Ibrahim, Ch.15: V.42)
“My Lord, have mercy on them even as they nourished me in my childhood.” (Surah Bani-Israel, Ch.17: V.25)
Conclusion
Therefore, it is high time parents accept that no matter how much they try, a gap will always exist between them and their children – one rooted in generational, societal, and technological change. But that gap can be bridged – with love, understanding, communication, good example, and prayer.
A phrase comes to mind: “It takes a wise man to recognise a wise man.” In other words, to truly understand or outsmart someone, one must first grasp how they think.
So if you’re raising a Gen Z, perhaps it’s time to start thinking like one – or in fact, outthinking them.
Promotional still from Adolescence | Netflix Media Center
Friday Sermon
Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, Tilford, UK
1 August 2025
Jalsa Salana UK 2025: Highlights, insights and reflections
After reciting the tashahhud, ta’awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:
Last Sunday, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, Jalsa Salana UK came to a close. These three days were very blessed and were days which exhibited the blessings of Allah the Almighty. It is a great favour of Allah the Almighty that during these three days He bestowed upon us His countless blessings and made the Jalsa blessed in every way, bringing the Jalsa to a resoundingly successful close. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the weather also remained pleasant, and all programmes were carried out in an excellent manner.
Aside from the primary proceedings of the Jalsa, like the speeches and such programmes, the exhibitions organised by various departments for the sake of propagation and education also left a very positive impact on non-Ahmadis and Ahmadis as well, by the grace of Allah the Almighty. They enabled many people to increase their knowledge.
Similarly, during the breaks between Jalsa sessions, MTA broadcast various informative programmes and left a positive impact on people. Ahmadis viewing from other countries also appreciated these programmes very much as they conveyed many new things. Similarly, this year, as I announced on the final day of the Jalsa, MTA connected 119 centres from 56 countries around the world to the Jalsa. This was a two-way connection where both sides could see each other; we could see them from here, and they could see us live from where they were. This was not simply a television broadcast that they were listening to; rather, it was also a live connection which had a profound and positive impact. This impact was not felt just by the people here, though people here also greatly appreciated it; rather, people listening to the Jalsa from different countries also felt as if they were sitting in the marquee at the Jalsa site, listening to the Jalsa proceedings. They were sitting thousands of miles away; however, through this medium, Allah the Almighty enabled them to listen to the Jalsa in a manner that made them feel as if they were actually present at the Jalsa. This, too, is a great blessing from among the bounties of Allah the Almighty, which He has bestowed upon the Ahmadiyya Jamaat,
that through such modern innovations, Ahmadis from around the world have been brought together. This is a manifestation of becoming a united nation, which is not observed anywhere else in the world.
Many people said that this year’s arrangements were far better than in previous years, and many have expressed this sentiment, both from those who were in attendance here and those from different countries who watched the various programmes. There was a special atmosphere, and it is a special blessing of Allah the Almighty that every person had the extraordinary feeling that Allah the Almighty’s special bounties were descending upon the Jalsa.
Allah the Almighty says that if you become His grateful servants, when you are grateful, then He will grant you even more of His blessings and shower more bounties upon you. Allah the Almighty says:
“If you are grateful, I will surely bestow more favours upon you.” (The Holy Quran, 14:8)
Thus, gratefulness is necessary in order to become further recipients of Allah the Almighty’s blessings. Allah the Almighty says about Himself:
“Surely, Allah is Appreciating, All Knowing.” (The Holy Quran, 2:159)
When the word “gratitude” is used in the context of Allah the Almighty, it means “appreciating”. Thus, Allah the Almighty appreciates the grateful, and as a result of this appreciation, Allah the Almighty continues to bestow upon them even more. Allah the Almighty is the Master, and so it is not for Him to be grateful to His servants; rather, He appreciates the gratitude which is shown by His servants. He is also All-Knowing, and He knows who is truly grateful. If one is truly grateful, then God will continue to bestow His bounties upon them. These should not be mere words; rather, there should be a passion for gratitude, and by His grace, Allah the Almighty has brought about this passion profusely within the Jamaat. May Allah the Almighty continuously increase it.
All the attendees should also bear in mind that whilst remaining grateful to Allah the Almighty, they should also offer thanks to the volunteers who rendered services. They should be thankful for the manner in which Allah the Almighty created ease in the undertakings of the workers, removed their difficulties, and enabled them to improve in all their work and to serve as many people as possible, thus creating more ease for the attendees and better arrangements.
This year, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, as I mentioned on the last day of Jalsa, the attendance was over 46,000. In fact, the report, which was received later on from the Lajna, states that their numbers were not fully included in the count. If the numbers, according to their report, which was later submitted, are included, then the total combined attendance of men and women comes to 50,000, because the Lajna say that they numbered 25,000.
Thus, these 50,000 attendees should be grateful for how Allah the Almighty created ease for them through the workers. They did not have to face difficulties when it came to transportation; they did not have to face difficulties when it came to food; they did not have to face any difficulty when it came to listening to the Jalsa programme, and all of their other various needs were fulfilled.
The arrangements for accommodation were also quite good. Those guests who stayed in the Jamaat accommodations were afforded excellent arrangements. All of these things were done by the grace of Allah the Almighty – it is not due to any excellence on our part, rather it was the grace of Allah the Almighty.
While the workers should also be grateful that Allah the Almighty granted them the ability and allowed their work to produce excellent results, the attendees should also be grateful to Allah the Almighty for the means He created whereby countless people from different backgrounds and various academic standings all came together and worked night and day as volunteers and carried out their duties for the sake of Allah the Almighty’s pleasure. As I mentioned, the volunteers of various departments in the men’s Jalsa site and the women’s Jalsa site
included thousands of children, girls and boys, women and men. Everyone was able to serve selflessly, and they all deserve to be thanked by the attendees.
Similarly, khuddam [Ahmadi youth] from Canada and Australia came in large numbers and helped in the work before and after the Jalsa. They helped during the Jalsa and are helping in the windup as well. May Allah the Almighty reward all of them. It is mentioned in a hadith that Allah the Almighty says to His servants, “Such and such servant of Mine did a favour upon you and you did not thank him.” The servant will say, “O Allah, You are the One Who bestowed the favour upon me, so I thanked You and continue to thank You.” Allah the Almighty will say, “No, I bestowed a favour upon you through that person and tended to your needs. Hence, it is also necessary to be grateful to that person.” (Majma’ al-Zawa’id, Vol. 8, p. 233, Kitab al-Birri, wa s-salah, Bab shukri l-ma’ruf…, Hadith 13634, Dar AlKotob Al-Ilmiyah, Beirut, 2001)
Thus, Allah the Almighty appreciates the works which His servants do for His sake to such a degree that He says that one should be grateful to them. Allah the Almighty also expects us to be grateful to His servants so that an environment of complete gratitude is established, in which there is gratitude in every direction. This is something we should always bear in mind. As I said, all of the workers are deserving of gratitude. Seeing this passion also leaves a profound impact on non-Ahmadis. They are astonished to see children performing duties, offering water, making rotis, working in hospitality, cleanliness and other departments; and how they are happily working.
Of the impressions which have been received, not just one but many impressions of the guests who attended express that they asked the workers what their occupations are, thinking that perhaps they do some type of labour work based on the manner in which they were working. Yet some told them that they are the head of a firm, some said they are teachers, some said they are PhD students, while some said they had obtained their PhDs. Hence, there are such people who possess the passion of presenting themselves to serve the guests
of the Promised Messiahas and to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty.
All of this demands that all the participants express their gratitude to the individuals involved, and the volunteers too ought to be thankful for the opportunity – because even though they may not get the chance throughout the year to convey the message of Islam or the Jamaat as it should be, during the days of Jalsa, while serving in their respective duties, they interact with a wide range of people. NonAhmadis also attend. Guests from various countries attend, many of whom are having their first introduction to the Jamaat. They come with the intention of observing firsthand whether these people truly live up to what they profess. When they witness these volunteers – who belong to diverse professional backgrounds – engaging in humble, labour-intensive tasks alongside everyone else, it leaves a deep impression upon them. It becomes a form of silent preaching, and they even express this impact themselves. I will present a few such examples, although there are many more –countless people are writing to me, sharing their reflections on how Allah the Almighty is influencing hearts.
While the speeches at Jalsa are indeed moving, people are equally affected by the actions of our volunteers and the conduct of our children. This is silent preaching and the true message of Islam that is being conveyed to the people through the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.
Similarly, those who are newly joined members or those attending for the first time also find encouragement and inspiration. They observe how respectfully and honourably they are being hosted and how courteously the local Ahmadis interact with them. This, then, is something immensely important, and we must all be grateful to Allah the Almighty for it.
Now, as I said, I will share a few of these impressions.
The Assistant Commissioner of the Rodrigues Island Police Force, Mr Manuj Lochan, attended the Jalsa. He stated: “I have participated in many official and social events in my capacity as a Police Commissioner and Divisional Commander, but what I witnessed during the Jalsa days was truly exemplary. It was a priceless lesson in organisation and discipline. The presence of ten thousand volunteers was an astonishing miracle. Everyone served side by side with unmatched dedication. I saw one volunteer whose hand was bandaged due to an injury, yet he continued serving others with a smile.”
He further said:
“I met doctors, IT professionals, businessmen, and PhD holders – all humbly and resolutely engaged in service. The driver who took us to Jalsa told me that he holds a PhD in biochemistry. That left a profound impact on me. I have never experienced such devotion and humility for the sake of Jamaat service in my entire life.”
He further remarked:
“The programme was excellent. Security arrangements were impressive. In short, every aspect left a deep and lasting effect on me, and I am returning to my country with many memories to share with my fellow police officers and family members.”
A guest from Belgium, Mr Hans Noot,
a representative of the human rights organisation HRWF, participated in the Jalsa. He said:
“Being part of such an extraordinary gathering was a true joy for me. It was not just a memorable experience, but due to your warmth and excellent hospitality, it became one that left a lasting impression. Managing such a large-scale event, with thousands of participants over several days, is undoubtedly a remarkable achievement. Through my conversations with volunteers, I learnt how each department begins preparations months in advance, responsibilities are delegated, and individuals receive thorough training. What impressed me most was not only the administrative excellence but also the moral foundation behind it. The trainers didn’t merely explain protocols; they instilled values of service to Allah and humanity, humility, and respect for each guest. These values were evident in every responsibility – from those directing traffic in car parks to those cleaning toilets, serving food, handling registration, or checking bags at security. Every individual discharged their duties in a dignified and loving manner. As a non-Ahmadi guest, I observed a highly coordinated system, and I neither witnessed nor heard of any major issues or conflicts. This indicates that your Community has deeply embraced practical training in peace and nonviolence.”
He further noted:
“Another remarkable aspect I noticed was your Community’s dedication to education and intellectual advancement. During the Jalsa, high-achieving students were honoured – this reflects a deep respect for personal growth and knowledge.”
Then, he said:
“During the Jalsa, I witnessed acts of genuine compassion: parents being affectionate to their children, group leaders looking after their teams, volunteers stepping forward unprompted to assist, and workers offering their assistance to everyone, including complete strangers. Generally, people served well beyond their assigned duties.”
He further said:
“I was delighted and pleasantly surprised to see that your Community is rooted in spiritual renewal and intellectual openness. It brought me joy to learn that, according to your belief, Allah the Almighty still speaks to mankind and has not abandoned this attribute. He continues His work through righteous leadership and revelation.”
Mr Yuri Moura, a member of the provincial parliament from Brazil, said:
“I was deeply pleased to learn about the wise teachings of Islam at the Jalsa. The sight of prayers being offered was profoundly spiritual, and the poems that were recited touched my heart. It was an unforgettable experience for me. The speech of the Khalifa of the Time regarding hospitality left a deep impression on me. It was astonishing that this was a temporary arrangement, yet fortysix thousand people had gathered. I saw with my own eyes little children expressing a desire to serve water to attendees. Such a spirit of service and sacrifice can only stem from well-trained hearts. What also moved me was the genuine love, courtesy, and sincerity of the Ahmadis. This is a Community that teaches people to connect hearts through love and affection rather than
to divide them by nation, race, or religion. It is absolutely true that the Ahmadiyya Community practises what it preaches, and this stands as an example for the world.”
He further remarked:
“Seeing all this deeply uplifted my spirit and elevated my view of humanity. Your religion may be different from mine, but it is certainly a faith that unites rather than divides. My prayer is that you always remain beacons of light. May the Ahmadiyya Community in Brazil and across the world thrive and prosper. I especially urge the people of Brazil to come and see how the Ahmadiyya Community is playing its role in spiritual, religious, academic, and humanitarian fields across the globe.”
Ms Rosito Cortes, a theology and interfaith dialogue professor at a Catholic University in Chile, who regularly participates in interfaith events, attended the Jalsa this year. She said:
“A gathering like the Jalsa, where every aspect is so thoroughly and gracefully organised, is truly unparalleled.” She said, “On the first day, I deliberately ate and drank very little in order to avoid having to use the washroom.” She feared that with such a massive crowd, the cleanliness standards – especially of the washrooms – would be similar to other worldly fairs: dirty, unusable and difficult. She expected the same here at the Jalsa. But when she ultimately made her way to the washroom, she was stunned upon seeing the actual state. She later said to the representative accompanying her: “Your cleanliness standards are extraordinary. The washrooms appeared as if no one had even used them.”
Some people have complained about the cleanliness of the washroom; however, the complainants are Ahmadis, and I have repeatedly said that Ahmadis should help the cleanliness workers and ensure proper cleaning after personal use. If every Ahmadi paid attention to this, the standard could be even higher.
She also remarked on the Community’s mutual brotherhood and unity, saying:
“Even we, non-Ahmadi guests from Latin America, became imbued with the same spirit as you, and we were so deeply affected by the Jalsa environment that we have developed the same spirit. Before the Jalsa, we did not know one another. But now, it feels as though we are one family.”
A female guest, Ms Chabi Adam Taro from Benin, who has previously served as Minister for Social Affairs, also attended. At present, she is working as the Political Technical Advisor to the President of the National Assembly. She said, “This is my first experience attending the Jalsa Salana. I am very grateful to have participated in this spiritual gathering, which the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community organised in an excellent manner. I was given a very warm welcome and reception. There was great discipline. Every team played its role, and the speeches of the Khalifa of the time elevated this event even further. I am leaving here having learnt a lot.
The Jalsa Salana is also a manifestation of unity; brothers and sisters from different languages and cultures gather together here and remain connected to the same, singular message of Allah the Almighty and the Holy Quran.” And then she says, “I express my gratitude, and also on behalf of the President of the National Assembly and the people of
Benin, to those who so warmly took care of me, received me, and treated me.”
A guest named Gaston Ocampo is originally from Argentina and currently resides in Portugal. He is serving as the Secretary General of IPDAL, a famous think tank. He is Catholic but is also interested in Islam. He says, “During the Jalsa, I had the opportunity to witness many good qualities of your Community. Among them, the quality I liked the most was that your youth are attached to their religion and firmly adhere to its teachings.” He continued, “In our society, most Christians are in name only and do not act upon its teachings. Likewise, in our Catholic ceremonies, the majority in attendance are often from the older generation. But at your Jalsa, not only were youth attending, but they were also entrusted with important tasks.” He says, “On the one hand, I found this amazing, but at the same time, as a Catholic, I felt ashamed that we have not established the same standard of discipline that you have. And the respect and honour that your people show your Khalifa, the way they express their attachment to him, is also exemplary.”
A guest from Italy, Ms Giorgia Lacuele, is the Director of the Italian Presidency in the European Parliament. She said, “I initially thought this would be a religious gathering alone, but I was mistaken. The Jalsa Salana is a truly emotional experience that leaves a profound mark on the soul. It feels as if I entered a world where faith, brotherhood, and spirituality are all one and the same, and you are connected through it. To see thousands of people from all corners of the world gathered for one purpose – to strengthen their relationship with God and humanity – was an immensely impactful experience for me. What impacted me the most was the outstanding organisation and that everything was being carried out by volunteers, including children, youth, men, and women, and all were extremely kind and courteous. This was a living image of the true message of the Ahmadiyya Community: peace, serving humankind, and selfless love.”
Then she said, “One thing that will forever remain etched in my heart was the silent prayer in which I had the opportunity to participate. That silence was filled with profound meaning and deep connection.” She says, “For me, Jalsa Salana was not merely an event; rather, it was an invitation to self-reflect and to think about how we treat others.” Non-Ahmadis also feel this kind of effect.
The Vice Mayor of Praia, the capital city of the Cape Verde Islands, Mr Fernanda Jorge Tavares Pinto, attended the Jalsa. He said, “I cannot express in words my feelings regarding the Jalsa. I am 65 years old, and I have attended many major conferences around the world, but I have never attended such a large and organised conference like the Jalsa, where more than 46,000 people participated, and every single individual was meeting others with love and affection. Everyone seemed to be part of one family.”
He says, “Today, the world needs God in order to establish peace. It is my wish that the message of the Ahmadiyya Community spreads in our country, and that this message reaches our leaders as well, and that the missions of the Ahmadiyya Community open in our country too.” He says, “I listened
to all the addresses of the Imam[aa] of the Community, which touched my heart. The leaders of the world should all listen to this message as well so that they too realise their responsibilities.”
There is a new convert from Belize, Ethan Mariano Sahib. He says, “My certainty has greatly increased after participating in the Jalsa and after meeting the Khalifa of the time.” He then says, “I will remain loyal to the Khalifa of the time till my last breath, and I love Khilafat.”
Then he says, “Western society teaches us that if someone is doing something for you, just let them do it. But here, every person is trying to serve as much as possible so that they may attain more blessings. Everyone is helping beyond their capacity. It made me very happy to see that age or race does not matter; everyone loves each other and wants to serve. During conversations with people, it became clear that here, people give more importance to serving humanity than to their professions. They take leave from their jobs and consider it more important to attain these blessings.”
He says, “The change that has come into my life after the Jalsa is astonishing. The journey from not knowing the value of Khilafat to developing intense love for the Khalifa of the time in my heart is truly noteworthy.” He did not understand the value of Khilafat before, but now, he has a great love for Khilafat. He says, “In Belize, even if just a few people gather, a fight breaks out.” He then says that his city has a population of 50,000, and here, a similar number of people were in attendance, but there was complete peace. He says: “The arrangements were extremely organised; every detail had been carefully considered: children offering water, youth managing lines of cars in the parking, the distribution of food, and cleanliness. Every person was working with full devotion and love. Witnessing all this was incredibly impactful. Even people belonging to high-ranking professions were serving without any ego, simply because they wished to serve, to attain the pleasure of Allah.” He then also said: “By speaking with the youth, it became clear that everyone is placing much emphasis on education.”
Peter Pelikan, a senior professor from the Czech Republic, participated in the Jalsa Salana. He is an expert in Islamic studies and Islamic jurisprudence and serves in various capacities on a governmental level. He also writes articles for various magazines and newspapers and is fundamentally a Sunni Muslim.
He says: “This is my second Jalsa; my first time was at the Jalsa in Germany. Here, I witnessed the same lofty standard that I witnessed in Germany, with the difference being that here I witnessed the presence of the Khalifa, which had a profound impact on me.”
He goes on, “I have participated in and seen many great gatherings and exhibitions around the world. However, this is the first time that I have witnessed such unity, mutual love, and an environment of peace, filled with smiling faces who carried a great passion for service – a true testament to the discipline and character of the Ahmadiyya Community.”
He continues, “The very first address of the Khalifa of the time was both a surprising and amazing experience. He spoke with
such truthfulness and expanded on how to take care of guests, explaining how the heart of a guest is like glass. And then the volunteers did indeed take this in full spirit and took care of the guests.”
Then he says, “The security arrangements were excellent, and the organisation was great throughout the site. It was amazing how all of these various tasks were running smoothly without any difficulties.”
He then said, “In my opinion, others should also come and participate in this Jalsa so that they can witness for themselves the brotherhood that permeates this gathering and experience the love, peace and brotherhood that characterises the air of the Jalsa. This is an experience that every person should have at least once in their life. This experience convinces me that the future of the Ahmadiyya Community is indeed bright. It has both broadened and deepened my understanding of Islam.
“Although I myself am a Sunni Muslim, I have never considered my Ahmadi Muslim brothers outside the pale of Islam. I got to meet and converse with many Ahmadi brothers and scholars who spoke various languages face-to-face, who introduced me with great sincerity of heart to the doctrines and beliefs of the Community. This was personally very important to me, not only as a Muslim but also as a professor in the Czech Republic. Then I also got to speak with various volunteers, amongst whom were people of advanced age and youngsters alike. I asked them why they are volunteering for this event, and everyone’s response was more or less the same: ‘We are doing this for the sake of earning the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, serving the guests of the Promised Messiahas and for the betterment and reformation of our spiritual selves.’
“One young man informed me that he had been volunteering in the same department for the last 15 years, and ever since he was a little boy, would devote time to serve the guests of the Promised Messiahas. These volunteers carry out their duties without any expectation of worldly reward or compensation. In my view, it is this very spirit of moral training that Khilafat has inculcated into their hearts, and it is because of Khilafat that every volunteer serves with such altruism and love. My heart is filled with great respect and love for these volunteers who come rain or shine and remain ever-ready to offer these services.”
He then said, “As a professor, it was also amazing and uplifting to see just how much the Ahmadiyya Community emphasises secular educational and scholastic excellence. I ended up spending several hours at the bookstalls. I carefully perused various books and found the standard of scholarship and writing truly laudable. This system of scholarship is truly an amazing and deeply impactful undertaking.”
Similarly, he expressed various other sentiments.
There is a new convert from French Guiana named Amina Mala Singh Sahiba. She says, ‘The thing that touched my heart the most in this Jalsa was the excellent character and hospitality of the people here. If you were tired and looking for a place to sit, those who were already sitting down would stand up and offer you their own place to sit. There was an inexplicable feeling of peace and freedom in the air – a spiritual
environment that is beyond expression. And the most powerful and impactful moment for me was when I saw and met with the Khalifa of the time. I began to cry uncontrollably.” To have such love, fidelity and connection with Khilafat right from the outset are all things that are created by God Himself – no human can ever manufacture these feelings.
There is also a new convert from Bulgaria named Ivelina Sahiba. She says, “I am the only Ahmadi in my household. I studied Ahmadiyyat in great depth and accepted it after three years of research. This is my first Jalsa in the UK – it was an extremely spiritual gathering. Although I had been waiting for a long time to attend the UK Jalsa in person – the largest gathering here – because the Khalifatul Masih attends and delivers addresses.” She says, “During these blessed days, I felt an exceptional spiritual atmosphere and was granted the opportunity to be part of it. Being among the devotees of God, my own relationship with God Almighty grew even stronger. The spirit of brotherhood, the high morals, and the spiritual standards that were visible in every aspect left a deep impression on my heart.
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the workers, volunteers, and organisers who worked tirelessly for the successful organisation of this magnificent Jalsa. My experience was absolutely excellent, and I was deeply impressed by the level of attention given to the comfort and convenience of the guests.”
She says, “At the conclusion of this blessed Jalsa, I am returning home with a faith stronger than before, with more accurate knowledge, and with the conviction that my connection is now with the true Islam. The most moving moment for me was when the Khalifatul Masih delivered the address about the coming of the Promised Messiahas – the one whose coming was foretold by our Holy Prophetsa. Although I had previously reflected on this subject, the words of the Khalifa of the time gave me a new perspective and showed me angles I had never seen before.”
She says, “This address gave a powerful and well-reasoned response to the allegations and doubts raised by some opponents regarding the possibility of someone coming after the Seal of the Prophets. This speech expanded my understanding, deepened my insight, and made my point of view more comprehensive.”
She adds, “Another speech that had a deep impact on my heart was the one that gave proofs that the Holy Quran is from God. Upon hearing how the objections of the present age were refuted in such a logical, reasoned, and clear manner, I not only felt inner peace but also gained a renewed confidence that I too would now be able to defend against these allegations whenever the truth of the Holy Quran is attacked in any gathering.” This is the new passion that arises in such people.
A guest from Brazil, Igor Lucas – a journalist and secretary to a member of the provincial parliament – said, “The punctuality in the Jalsa programmes was commendable. This is a great quality. The hospitality and sincerity of members of the Ahmadiyya Community were deeply moving. From the food arrangements to the use of bathrooms, from transportation
to the entrances and exits of the Jalsa venue – guests were always prioritised. This environment teaches a lesson in unity and selflessness.”
He then said, “I was also impressed by how serious efforts were made to avoid food wastage, yet food was generously and abundantly provided to each person.”
A guest from Indonesia, Gommar Gultom – a pastor and former chairman of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia – said, “I knew about Ahmadiyyat, but through this Jalsa I came to understand it in a better way. Ahmadiyyat is a spiritual movement that began in a small village of Qadian and has now become a global spiritual movement. I saw how Ahmadis from different countries had gathered with the same spirit – to strengthen their connection with God.” He said, “What was particularly striking was the emphasis placed on deepening one’s relationship with Allah. This is something many people tend to overlook, but here it becomes a fundamental focus.” These were some of his impressions.
A guest from Iceland, Mr Nandkisore –Chairman of the Universal Peace Federation – said: “In Matthew 7:16 it is written, ‘By their fruits you will recognise them.’ These words became a deeply impactful and living reality for me during Jalsa Salana 2025. Seeing the radiant and joy-filled faces of the participants left a profound impression on my heart. In my view, this was a clear sign that the Lord is pleased to see the unity of those who have gathered in search of His pleasure. A Humanity First volunteer who had been serving in humanitarian efforts in Africa shared that this service is not only beneficial for others but also draws one closer to Allah. It is a powerful reminder of how faith can be expressed through action.” These were among his many impressions.
Ms Sauley, a non-Ahmadi guest from Kazakhstan, says:
“I am from Kazakhstan, and this was my first time attending the Jalsa. I have had the opportunity to participate in numerous worldly events and conferences, yet the sheer number of attendees at this gathering left a deep impression upon me. What struck me most was that such a vast multitude of people had come from various countries, solely for the purpose of goodness and virtue. Their objective was simply to listen to words that promote positivity and to learn how mankind may live together in peace and harmony. It was evident that the objective was to rid the world of hatred and establish an atmosphere filled with love and compassion.”
She further states: “The words of Khalifatul Masih concerning the status and honour of women were truly magnificent. The slogan of the Jalsa – “Love for All, Hatred for None” – and the unity of the people present pointed clearly towards the path of collective harmony. I have never before heard such words, and every word seemed to sink deeper into the soul.”
She goes on to say, “I was initially opposed to my boss, who is an Ahmadi lady, but upon witnessing this atmosphere, at the very least, I will no longer oppose her – in fact, I will support her.”
Mr Moshtagh Zaherinezah from Austria had the opportunity to attend the Jalsa. He is a teacher of Islamic Studies in Austria. He says:
“At the Jalsa Salana, I witnessed believers all around me. Everyone was very friendly and carried within them a deep passion for the service of Islam. I was greatly moved by the words of the Khalifa of the time.” He says, “Presently, among mainstream Muslims, many scholars consider having a long beard and wearing particular garments to be the essence of faith. In reality, they are Muslims in name only. However, the Ahmadiyya Community is the only community I have seen that is truly serving Islam with sincerity and devotion.” He says, “In fact, I believe that within the next two hundred years, this Community may well become dominant throughout the world.”
He then says, “I am a Sunni Muslim, but I firmly believe that the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Community was indeed a holy person. I now feel he was the Reformer of his time.” He admits to this much and then says: “At present, I am still contemplating and reflecting. I do feel some hesitation in fully accepting the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as divinely appointed, but I am actively researching and studying the matter.”
Nonetheless, this mindset in itself reflects a noble disposition; at the very least, he did not obstinately refuse to consider the matter.
Ms Elista Rudy Demange, a new convert from Bulgaria who accepted Islam from Christianity, says:
“Before attending the Jalsa, I had some apprehensions in my heart. I feared that perhaps I would not entirely feel part of the environment, as I am a newcomer, and my language and culture are different. However, the unity and love I witnessed here is something I have never seen anywhere else in the world. I met people from every corner of the globe, yet they all seemed as though they were part of one family. Though strangers to one another, they would greet each other with warmth and smiles.”
She continues, “At times, the dust of heedlessness and doubt begins to settle upon one’s faith and righteousness. But attending the Jalsa is akin to the heart and soul being cleansed anew, and for one to begin a new spiritual life. This experience refreshes the spirit and fills the heart with a deep sense of peace and tranquillity.”
Rolannd Shavadze from Georgia writes:
“The peaceful atmosphere of the Jalsa, the speeches, and the addresses delivered by the Khalifa play a powerful role in uplifting one’s spirituality. I was particularly moved by the Friday Sermon, in which the Islamic teachings on hospitality were explained. Likewise, I also liked the address delivered by the Khalifa of the time to the ladies had a profound effect on me.” He says, “I am a Georgian Muslim and work as a university lecturer. Two years ago, I was honoured with the ‘Best Teacher’ award in Georgia. My field is education, and I was especially impressed by the way your Community encourages both men and women in the pursuit of knowledge.
This year, I had the opportunity to translate The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam from English into Georgian. I derived immense pleasure while working on this translation. In his concluding address on Sunday, Khalifatul Masih referred to this
book and explained how the false allegations of other Muslims who view the Promised Messiahas have been refuted through the beautiful teachings of Islam. I really liked this, and the scene of the Bai‘at ceremony was particularly moving for me.”
He further says, “In today’s world, a negative image of Islam is often portrayed. But whoever desires to witness the true and beautiful teachings of Islam should come to the Jalsa and observe with their own eyes the atmosphere of love, brotherhood, and peace here.”
Similarly, Jessica Garcia Kohl Liccardo, the wife of Congressman Sam Liccardo, says:
“I work in an organisation that deals with domestic violence, and I was astonished to learn that the Khalifa not only spoke about physical abuse against women, but also addressed emotional abuse against women in his speech.”
She then said, “One question remained unanswered for me for which I didn’t know the answer: if something were to happen to a woman, where could she go for help?” She then asked me the same question later, and I explained that there is a system within the Community; women come to the Khalifa of the time and also approach the system established within the Community, and the Community assists them. Other means of help can also be sought. She said that hearing all this gave her reassurance. It was also reassuring for her to know that the Khalifa of the time has a personal relationship with members of the Community.
Some people have said that objections could be raised against certain things I said, particularly on the topic of physically reprimanding, but there is an explanation for this, a detailed one, which forms a separate discussion. Moreover, the conditions for it are not fulfilled. Even if the conditions were to be met as far as physically reprimanding women is concerned, by that stage, the situation becomes such that things do not even reach that point. Therefore, this is a very remote possibility which has been addressed in the Islamic teachings.
An Arab lady from Sweden came to attend the Jalsa. She says, “Jalsa Salana is like one big home that embraces the entire family within it. In Sweden, there are very few Arab Ahmadis, but at the Jalsa, when one hears the name of the Arab tent, a unique peace and sense of belonging is felt. Then meeting other Arab sisters and brothers brought me great joy, and it had a deep impact on me. I also had the opportunity to meet the Khalifa of the time, which also left a positive impression on me.”
May Allah the Almighty open the hearts of all the guests who have attended, so that they may come to understand Ahmadiyyat and the true Islam and accept the Imam of the age. May He also continue to increase the new converts in faith and sincerity. In the same way, may every Ahmadi be granted the ability to act upon what they saw and heard during the Jalsa programmes, to make it part of their lives, to give precedence to faith over the world, and may this spirit always remain. May every Ahmadi continue to partake in the blessings of Jalsa and strive earnestly for the reformation of their own selves and their surroundings.
I will briefly give a report of the press coverage this year. Reports were published in the Italian press. It is reported that certain key sessions of the Jalsa Salana were broadcast live by the Europe Communication News Agency, an official media body affiliated with the European Parliament. They also aired and published various interviews related to the event.
Thus far, reports regarding the Jalsa have appeared in over sixty newspapers and media agencies, and an online influencer has also shared my message. Among the attendees were two journalists from Italy, who reported positively about the Community on their respective social media platforms, having a following of approximately half a million.
Under the efforts of the Jamaat Press and Media department, news of the event reached around 50 million people via various online websites – covering about 49 different platforms. In print media, seventeen articles were published, reaching 20 million readers. On the radio, 25 programmes covered Jalsa, attracting around 20 million listeners.
Television coverage reached approximately five million viewers. Similarly, across various media outlets, journalists and public figures, substantial content was shared on social media platforms, taking the message to 14 million people.
By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the total combined media reach of Jalsa Salana is estimated to be close to 100 million people.
Renowned media outlets covering the event include ITV, LBC, The Times, The Guardian, The Telegraph, Daily Mail, The Independent, BBC, Al-Arabiya 21, Daily Express, London Evening Standard, and The New Arab, among several others.
Through MTA Africa, my addresses were broadcast across various channels.
Following these broadcasts of Jalsa Salana, more than 50 individuals accepted Ahmadiyyat. The Jalsa Salana broadcasts were aired on 22 national and regional television channels, totalling 304 hours of programming and reaching 65 million viewers.
Additionally, 91 reports regarding Jalsa were aired via radio stations, reaching an audience of 16 million. Furthermore, 47 reports were disseminated through various other media outlets, reaching up to 150 million people.
With regards to people’s sentiments after watching on MTA Africa, a missionary from Mali stated that they witnessed a moving incident on the third day of Jalsa. In the early morning, there was heavy rainfall, leading many to believe that no one would come to the mosque. However, shortly before the International Bai‘at, a few members –including some new converts – arrived at the mosque on foot or by bicycle, drenched in the rain. When the missionary asked them why they had not stayed at home and listened to the proceedings on the radio, one new convert replied:
“Indeed, we could have listened from home, but we would not have been able to see the Khalifa of the time with our own eyes. The joy and blessings in this are incomparable. I did not want to miss the spiritual light and blessings of the International Bai‘at. This is why I came to
the mosque, despite getting soaked in the rain.”
May Allah the Almighty continue to increase them all in faith and conviction.
Following the Friday prayer, I will lead the funeral prayer in absentia for the Respected Abdul Kareem Jamal Jaudah Sahib of Gaza, who was martyred recently as a result of Israeli military gunfire:
[“Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”]
His brother writes, “The deceased was 45 years old. He was married and had four daughters and two sons. The eldest son is 16, and the youngest child is two and a half years old. They resided in the Jabalia region of the Gaza Strip and belonged to a traditional and devout Muslim family. After completing the eleventh grade, he joined his father in the construction trade to support household expenses. He was the second among eleven siblings. Later, he opened a metal workshop, which was destroyed during an Israeli attack.
In 2013, he was introduced to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat through his brother, and soon after, he accepted Ahmadiyyat. He remained in constant contact with the Jamaat and was a very active and sincere member. Owing to his association with the Jamaat, he faced repeated interrogation by Gaza’s security agencies and endured various investigations. Nevertheless, he remained steadfast in his beliefs, did not dissociate from the Jamaat, and continued to remain in contact with the Jamaat.
In 2025, occupying forces demolished his home. He subsequently moved into a rented house. During the recent famine in Gaza, he went to a location where humanitarian aid – mainly flour and food –was being distributed, which the army had allowed. As a crowd formed, many civilians inadvertently approached areas near Israeli military presence. In response, the Israeli military opened intense fire on the unarmed civilians. One man near my brother was injured. When my brother attempted to assist the wounded individual, he was shot in the chest and martyred on the spot.”
He says, “The wounded man whom my brother tried to help and was killed in doing so, later testified that before his martyrdom, he recited the Islamic creed three times and thus departed this world in the noble footsteps of the Holy Prophetsa and the prophets. Our hearts find comfort in the fact that he passed away while firmly holding to the faith of our Master, the Holy Prophetsa and under the allegiance of the Imam Mahdias. By the grace of Allah, he was among the sincere and devoted believers.”
Dr Hafiz Sahib, Head of Humanity First UK, shared, “During a November 2021 visit to the Jamaatin Gaza under Humanity First, I met Abdul Kareem Sahib and found him to be a deeply sincere and passionate Ahmadi Muslim.”
May Allah the Almighty elevate his status and grant protection to his children. (Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 22 August 2025, pp. 2-8. Translated by The Review of Religions.)
