Al Hakam - Jalsa UK Special - 03 August 2018

100 Years Ago...

In the Line of Duty Hazrat Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib as Afsar Jalsa Salana

Progress Never Stops Taken from Al Hakam early 1919

Page 9

Jalsa Salana Memories

The International Bai'at

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW OF HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH Vaa

Its history, establishment and purpose.

Page 11

Page 4

Page 12

THE WEEKLY

A

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 3 August 2018 | Issue XX Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

JALSA SALANA SPECIAL

52 Jalsa Salana UK nd

T

he 52nd Jalsa Salana of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya UK starts this afternoon in Hadiqatul Mahdi, Hampshire, England.

The Jalsa proceedings are due to commence with the opening session that will follow the Friday Sermon of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa at 13:00 GMT. Jalsa Salana UK comprises five sessions in the men’s Jalsa Gah while women’s Jalsa Gah have their own sessions during the course of these three days. On the second day, Huzoor’s address to the Lajna in their marquee is relayed live in the men’s marquee. The Friday Sermon and the complete proceedings from the sessions of Jalsa, including Huzoor’s address to the Lajna are shown live on MTA. The highlight of the Jalsa Salana UK are the addresses to be delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa: the Friday Sermon, the opening address, address to the Lajna in their marquee, the one in the men’s marquee on the second day and the concluding address on Sunday – the third and final day.

A selection of scholars of the Jamaat are also due to address the congregation on a variety of topics. The list of speeches and speakers is given below: Continued on page 3

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Forgive the Transgressions of Your Brothers And if you possess even the slightest arrogance, hypocrisy, self-conceit or sloth, you are not worthy of being accepted.

Be careful lest a few accomplishments delude you to think that you have sufficiently fulfilled your purpose. For God desires a complete transformation in your being and He demands from you a death whereafter He should revive

Hadith-e-Rasul; Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa Hazrat Abu Hurrairara narrates that the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa said, “Whoever travels a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for them a path to Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitab Al-Zikr)

you. Hasten to make peace with one another and forgive forgiven. Do not feed your vanity, for those who are bloated your brethren their sins. For he who is not inclined to make cannot enter the gate to which you have been called. peace with his brother is wicked and will be cut off, because he is the cause of dissension. Part with your ego in every (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Noah’s Ark, p. 22) way and do away with mutual grievances. Be humble like the guilty, though truth be on your side, so that you may be

2

Editorial Jalsa Special Number he Al Hakam team has spent the past few months T working on the Jalsa Salana UK Special issue; the issue you are now reading. As this was our first ex-

perience of producing a Jalsa number, it has left us all much better informed about what it takes to hold the three-day Jalsa; it has been a faith-inspiring experience. We feel honoured and humbled to not only have witnessed what goes on behind the scenes, but also to have shared it with you; through this special issue and also the last few issues where we reported on the build-up of Jalsa Salana.

The extremely rich legacy of the institution of Jalsa Salana, spread over a century and three decades, remained our focus as we worked on the Jalsa Salana UK number. Our young generation needs to be made aware of how, with its humble beginnings, the Jalsa Salana spread out of Qadian and has now reached the corners of the earth. This one aspect in itself is a great sign of the truthfulness of a Jamaat that was told by its opponents that only a few years would pass after its inception that no one would even remember that this Jamaat ever existed.

What we witness now is quite the opposite. The names of such claimants are not even known to the world, but Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya is known all around the world as a crier calling to the One God, the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa of Islam and to global peace and harmony.

Every Jalsa, especially the Markazi Jalsa Salana of UK, sees people from all walks of life, from all parts of the world attending the proceedings and appreciating the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in establishing peace. Many non-Muslim visitors have very clearly said that if the world were to turn to Islam, Ahmadiyyat would be their only choice.

The Jalsa Salana UK also has the blessed honour to be the largest gathering of Muslims under one roof assembled in the name of love, peace, harmony and the basis of all three; the Unity of the One God. There are a number of exhibitions and hubs by various departments of the Jamaat in Hadiqatul Mahdi to provide the attendees an insight into the magnificent work being done by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat across the globe. During the breaks that fall between the sessions of Jalsa Salana, the attendees get an opportunity to go from marquee to marquee to be entertained (in the most positive meaning of the term) by these displays of what the Jamaat actually strives for – only a glimpse it may be.

MTA International, through its live coverage, will be bringing to you the flavour and feel of the atmosphere here that thrives with knowledge, fraternity and a spiritual uplift.

Thousands of our readers will get to read this Jalsa Special issue of Al Hakam here in Hadiqatul Mahdi.

Yet hundreds of thousands will read it in their homes in different parts of the world. Wherever you are, we have made a humble attempt to make you feel a part of the legacy that spans over 127 years of success, prosperity, magnificence and grandeur; the legacy we know as the Jalsa Salana.

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History 3-9 August 2018

3 August 1945: Hazrat Maulvi Abdul Majid Sahib of Bhagalpur, Bihar in India passed away on this day. He was a devoted companion of the Promised Messiahas and father-in-law of Hazrat Musleh Maudra. Hazrat Musleh Maudra married his daughter, Syeda Sara Begum Sahiba in 1925. Like all of Huzoor’s nikahs, this marriage’s primary motive was also of the spiritual upbringing and moral well-being of women of the Jamaat.

4 August 1893: An Arab religious scholar, Muhammad Bin Ahmad from Mecca wrote to the Promised Messiahas. This learned man visited India and made a stop-over in Qadian. After accepting the claims and beliefs of the Promised Messiahas, he enjoyed his blessed company for some time. Finally, he returned to his native county, and wrote a letter from Mecca after performing Hajj. While replying to his letter, the Promised Messiahas penned down a detailed writing: which was latter printed in shape of a book, HamamatulBushra.

5 August 1948: The possession of the land of Rabwah was taken by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. It was all done through a fair, legal and official process, so all allegations levelled regarding this, by the opponents, are fruit of their mind and enmity.

6 August 1891: The Promised Messiahas received a letter from Deputy Commissioner of Ludhiana, Mr W Chevis stating that his letter dated on the previous day had reached him, and it was declared that he had equal rights to live and stay in the city of Ludhiana as everyone had. For the readers of Al Hakam, it is necessary to highlight here the background of the events. After a debate with Maulvi Muhammad Hussain of Batala, some rumors were floating around that the Promised Messiahas was also served notice from city administration to leave.

6 August 1898: The Promised Messiahas wrote of an idea for a separate graveyard for his followers. In one letter to Nawab Muhammad Khan Sahib, he unveiled this thought. He added that the idea of a special cemetery derived from the

Islamic creed, and that the Sharia wholly backed and valued this. Since it would cause others forgiveness, because the company of righteous never let vulnerable ones to remain deprived, he provided the example of the special burial ground made in holy city of Medina. Notably, this is years before the establishment of Bahishti Maqbara.

6 August 1945: In final days of the Second World War, Allied forces hit Japan with an atomic bomb. Hazrat Musleh Maudra in his Friday Sermon condemned this barbaric and inhuman attack against the civilian population in the strongest possible words and manner.

6 August 1952: Maulana Muhammad Ismail Munir Sahib established the formal Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission in Ceylon, which is known today as Sri Lanka.

7 August 1887: A son was born in the house of the Promised Messiahas, known as Bashir I in the Jamaat's literature. On the same day, the Promised Messiahas received this Arabic revelation which contained the course of events yet to unfold: ‘‘We have sent this child as a witness, affirming good tidings, and as a Warner. He is like heavy rain in which there are diverse kinds of darknesses as well as thunder and lightning. All of these things are under his two feet. [i.e., they will follow after he departs.]’’ Moreover, this son’s birth and death was a core episode, clearly foretold in the revelation about Musleh Maud.

7 August 1897: A lawsuit of an attempted murder was initiated on this day, by an influential Christian Missionary, Dr Henry Martyn Clark against the Promised Messiahas. A vicious plot was cleverly hatched against the Promised Messiahas, and all enemy parties unanimously joined hands and took part against him in this lawsuit. Its proceedings ended up in a clear victory for the Promised Messiahas and the judge assigned in this case Lieutenant Col Montague William Douglas CSI, CIE (1863-1957), who was later declared by Huzooras to be the ‘‘Pilate of our time’’, superior to the original.

7 August 1944: The marriage ceremony of Hazrat Musleh Maudra with Syeda Bushra Begum, also known as ‘‘Mehar Apa’’ took place on this day. The walima was served on 15 August. This was the final of the seven marriages of Hazrat Musleh Maudra.

8 August 1983: An Ahmadi, Doctor Muzaffar Ahmad Sahib fell victim to a gun attack and became the first ever Ahmadi martyr in USA. This zealot preacher and adamant servant of the Jamaat was remembered by the Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh in his Friday Sermon of 12 August in enviable words.

3

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

The Foundations of Jalsa Salana Laid by the Promised Messiahas An announcement of the Promised Messiahas published in The Heavenly Decree in 1891 in which he lays out the essence of Jalsa, its objective and the benefits that his Community can derive by attending this gathering.

“The voicing of such truths and verities will be the occupation of this Jalsa which are important for the progress of belief, certainty and enlightenment.”

Continued from page 1

Existence of God in the Context of Acceptance of Prayers (Mubashir A Kahlon Sahib); Spiritual Revolution Created by the Holy Quran (Dr Sir Iftikhar A Ayaz Sahib); The Holy Prophet’ssa Patience and Steadfastness (Bilal Atkinson Sahib); The Kindness of the Promised Messiahas towards his Opponents (Dr Zahid Khan Sahib); Establishment of Global Unity through Khilafat (Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib); Ahmadiyyat, a Frotress of Peace (Rafiq A Hayat Sahib) and The Role of Parents in Pious Upbringing of Children (Raja Munir Ahmad Khan Sahib). The speeches will be spread over the course of the three days of Jalsa.

“The transmission of MTA International,” says Muniruddin Shams Sahib, Managing Director of MTA International, “started in 1992, and it is since then that MTA has had the honour to relay the proceedings of Jalsa Salana UK live to the worldwide audience”.

“I remember when it all started, almost all services had to be hired from various companies. Now, MTA has its

A

ll sincere individuals who have entered the fold of Bai‘at with me should remember that the purpose of Bai‘at is to neutralise the love for worldliness and to allow the love for the Exalted Lord and the beloved Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, to dominate the heart; to create such a condition of indifference [to this life] so that the journey to the Hereafter is not detested.

However, to achieve this objective, it is important to stay in my company and to spend part of one’s life in this endeavour, so that, if God wills, by witnessing an incontrovertible argument, frailty, weakness and laziness be removed, and after experiencing perfect certainty, fervour, eagerness and keen love be imbued. So, for this matter, continuous mindfulness should exist that God enables this to happen, and until such a situation does not arise, an individual should occasionally meet me.

If, after entering the fold of Bai‘at, an individual does not care to meet me, such a Bai‘at shall be without blessings and a mere ritual. And since it is difficult for everyone to spend time in my company or endure hardships in this way a few times a year due to weakness of nature, lack of means or lengthy distances; since most do not yet contain such enthusiasm to accept difficulty and hardship for the sake of meeting me, hence, it seems appropriate to appoint three

days a year for this Jalsa, in which all sincere individuals – if God wills and if health, resources and lack of any major hindrance permits – can visit on the allocated dates. So in my view, it is better that such a date be fixed as 27 December to 29 December.

This means that after today – 30 December 1891 – if 27 December comes again in our lifetime, then our friends should visit on this date solely for the sake of Allah, to listen to heavenly discourses and to participate in prayer to their utmost ability.

The voicing of such truths and verities will be the occupation of this Jalsa which are important for the progress of belief, certainty and enlightenment. Special prayers and attention will be directed towards such friends and [we will endeavour and hope] that the most Merciful Lord, God Almighty draws them to Himself, accepts them and grants them a pure change.

One immediate benefit of this Jalsa shall be that the many friends that join this Jamaat in each new year shall, by attending on the appointed dates, get to meet their brethren, and after gaining familiarity [with them], such a relationship and acquaintance will progress. Also, anybody who passes away during the year from this temporary abode, a prayer for their forgiveness shall be made at this Jalsa, and it shall be endeavoured to spiritually unite all brethren and to remove disassociation, unfamiliarity and hypocrisy

from among them, if the Most Merciful Lord wishes.

In this spiritual undertaking there shall be many more spiritual benefits which shall, if the Omnipotent God wills, be made apparent every now and then. It shall be better for those with less means to be mindful beforehand that they need to attend this Jalsa. If they, through planning and saving, put aside some money or wealth each day or on a monthly basis, then means for their journeys shall be easily available.

[It shall be] as if their journey was free. And it shall be better that whoever out of [my] close ones accepts this suggestion, they inform me through writing so that a new list of names of all those be recorded, who, exerting their best efforts and power, pledge for the duration of their lives to attend on the fixed dates and wholeheartedly and with determination visit me, unless such hindrances arise in which travelling no longer remains in one’s power. May Allah grant those who attended the recent Jalsa held on 27 December 1891 after undertaking the difficulties of journey for religious counsel a good reward and grant them a reward for their every step. Amin, Amin.

(Majmua-Ishteharat, Volume 1, Page 302-304)

own facilities and we have to rely very little on outside companies. This is all by the grace of Allah and Huzoor’saa prayers and guidance.”

Munir Odeh Sahib, MTA’s Director Production, feels humbled to narrate how Huzooraa has guided MTA in every matter of its affairs. “In 2014, Huzoor asked why MTA did not have its own uplink facility.

It was quite clear from what Huzoor said that he wanted MTA to have one,” recalls Munir Odeh Sahib. “We did our research and presented it to Huzooraa. Huzooraa even met the engineer from the company that we were to go ahead with, visited the van with the dish to examine the test that was being carried out and then gave us a go-ahead. So we now have our own uplink facility that enables us to go live from wherever Huzoor is.”

Qaasid Muin Ahmad Sahib, from Programming Department of MTA International told Al Hakam that special programmes are prepared every year for the special Jalsa Broadcast. “This year’s theme for our MTA broadcast is The Place of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in the

World. As soon as the theme was approved

by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in January, we started planning for our programmes.

Over the past six months, Programming and Production departments have been working on preparing the programmes that will, Insha-Allah, be shown during these three days of our Jalsa Special broadcast. We have a whole range of documentaries produced around the theme and also a number of discussion programmes that will be shown live from our Hadiqatul Mahdi studios. All this will be shown between breaks of Jalsa sessions.”

Umar Safir Sahib, Director of MTA Africa, told Al Hakam that 12 channels from across the African continent will be showing various parts of the Jalsa Broadcast at various timings during the three days. Channels from the Gambia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Benin, Uganda, Rwanda and Mali have happily agreed to have the live feed played as part of their broadcasts.

Another highlight of this year’s Jalsa transmission is the live web-stream in

French which is to go live on www.mta. tv/fr. “The live web-stream in French will have programmes specially produced for the Francophone audience. Channels from Burkina Faso and Mali will be broadcasting our feed live. Viewers can also access it at www.youtube.com/ mtafrancais”, says Adnan Haider Sahib who is in charge of the French webstream.

The county of Hampshire, also known as the county of Jane Austen, is now better known as the home of the Jalsa Salana UK. During and around the Jalsa period, drivers on motorways around the county of Hampshire can witness road-signs leading to Hadiqatul Mahdi; not to mention the thousands of vehicles heading towards it.

All departments have worked tirelessly over the past few months to build this tent city in the heart of the beautiful landscape of Surrey. It may seem like only three days, but for Ahmadis, it is a source of inspiration for the whole year; for a lifetime in fact.

4

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Exclusive

Jalsa Salana Memories

Exclusive Interview with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa

Huzooraa inspecting the quality of food the roti plant

Asif M Basit

With the start of the month of July in London, the Jamaat’s atmosphere begins to buzz with the same excitement that could once be seen in Qadian and later in Rabwah in December. The passion of Jalsa preparations comes into full swing.

On 1 July, as I sought guidance over a certain matter to do with the Jalsa Special Number of Al Hakam, Huzoor mentioned something in relation to Jalsa duties. This clicked, and I presented a question to Huzoor: “Huzoor, you have had the opportunity of serving in Jalsa Salana. Is there anything that you recall in relation to your Jalsa duties?”

The reply I received is hereby presented as a gift from Al Hakam to Ahmadis around the world on the momentous occasion of Jalsa Salana 2018: “I started performing Jalsa duties from a very young age. As far as I can remember, I do not recall any Jalsa when I was not on duty. Abba [Hazrat Mirza Mansoor Ahmad Sahib] was the Nazim of Langar Khana Number 1 – the

Langar Khana situated behind Nusrat Girls School in Rabwah. His days and nights were spent there. As a very young child, I would accompany him.

I remember walking to the Jalsa duty, holding his finger. I must have been six, seven or maybe eight because it is quite unusual for a child older than that to walk while holding someone’s finger.

“I recall how amazing the Jalsa Salana atmosphere used to be. The atmosphere of Jalsa was very exciting. Most of my time was spent in the Langar Khana [kitchen], and that too thrived with the buzz of Jalsa. On one side would be many queues of hundreds of degs [cauldrons] on stoves in an orderly fashion while there would be lines of hundreds of clay-ovens on the other where bakers would be baking rotis. The clay-ovens would also be placed in a well-organised manner. Abba would walk between both lines, constantly inspecting the work.

“Wood was used for fire in the stoves and clay-ovens and thus, the whole Langar Khana would be filled with

smoke. Our eyes would be exposed to this smoke and we would also inhale it, but we loved this atmosphere so much that it never put us off and I would carry on going with Abba to assist him.

I, along with other children of my age, would also assist in counting rotis.

“Abba had his own way in that if work needed to be sped up or if rotis were running short, he would hold a competition among the bakers; whoever baked a hundred or two-hundred rotis would win two rupees in prize. Back then, two rupees was quite a decent reward. If more rotis were required in the given time, he would set the prize money at five rupees. With this, every baker would try to exceed the other in an attempt to win more money in reward. The bakers would chant slogans to keep up their motivation, and the winners would especially chant slogans in celebration as they received their prize money. What a wonderful atmosphere it was!

“Cooks had to be called from other

towns to prepare food for Jalsa Salana in the Langar Khana. There were those who would cook food in the degs, some who would knead the dough, others to make dough-balls and, of course, bakers; all these people would be hired on contract. Such contracts were in place for most tasks and agreeing and signing them would be a major step.

“Once, the bakers called a strike saying that they wouldn’t bake rotis.

Their demand was probably an increment in wages or some other demand of such nature. They knew that they were desperately needed in Jalsa days, so they must have thought it the best way to have their demands met. With their strike, the situation was that roti could not be baked to feed the thousands of thousands of guests as there were no bakers. Even if there were a few Ahmadi bakers, they seemed next to none in that situation.

“The administration informed Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh about the situation and requested his guidance. Hazrat

5

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Khalifatul Masih IIIrh, in his opening address, instructed the attendees of Jalsa to consume one roti instead of two so that there were sufficient rotis for everyone. He also instructed that local Ahmadi households of Rabwah should bake rotis and send them to the Langar Khana so that there was no shortage.

The Jalsa Salana administration also arranged for flour to be sent to contributing households. Now, guests would stick to having only one roti in a meal while rotis started pouring in from houses. The result was that rotis, instead of the supposed shortage, were more

than sufficient and plenty without any problem.

“The bakers also understood that it was pointless to call strikes there. They simply asked to be pardoned and got back to work.

“The Langar Khana would remain functional day and night. Most of the workers would stay there overnight where there was a parali [paddy stems] laid as loose matting. The labourers and bakers would sleep by their clayovens as that was probably the most comfortable place for them in the bitterly cold weather. The little wink of

sleep that one could manage to catch was done so there. When I grew up and was in my college-going age, I too would stay there for night-shifts and would catch a bit of sleep on the parali.

I would sometimes come home. We would wake up the workers, labourers and the bakers at around half-past-one or two o’clock in the morning, and work for the day would start from then on.

“As the days of Jalsa drew closer, stacks of parali could be seen in various parts of Rabwah, from where it was distributed to various departments and accommodation areas. Almost every

household of Rabwah would host Jalsa guests, so local residents were also given parali [to use as bedding].

“I always offered my duty in Langar Khana, even when I was a tifl. Then at every stage, I was blessed to serve in the Langar Khana of the Promised Messiahas. I was a khadim [servant] even as a tifl; I was a khadim as a khadim; a khadim in Ansarullah and, to this day, I remain a khadim.”

May Allah bless our humble Imam with a large number of khadims. Amin

“I always offered my duty in Langar Khana, even when I was a tifl. Then at every stage, I was blessed to serve in the Langar Khana of the Promised Messiahas. I was a khadim [servant] even as a tifl; I was a khadim as a khadim; a khadim in Ansarullah and, to this day, I remain a khadim.”

A scene from Jalsa Gah Rabwah| ahmadiyyagallery.org

Jalsa Salana Rabwah Entrance| ahmadiyyagallery.org

Kneading dough on a mass scale at Jalsa Salana

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

6

A New Dawn for Jalsa Salana UK From Mahmud Hall to Open Fields

Chaudhry Hameedullah Wakil-e-Ala, Tehrik-e-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya

Rifatul Masih IV from Rabwah in 1984,

egarding the migration of Hazrat Khalrh

some articles have been published from time to time in newspapers and magazines of the community. Useful information has also surfaced from the monthly Khalid and Syedna Tahir special edition (2004).

On the night of migration from Pakistan to England, Huzoorrh issued important guidelines to Sahibzada Mirza Mansoor Ahmad Sahib, Sahibzada Mirza Mubarak Ahmad Sahib and this humble one.

Since there were many kinds of dangers and apprehensions at the time, Huzoorrh had appointed more than one deputy for the various office-bearers of the Anjuman so that following the first, the second, and after the second, the third could take charge. Huzoorrh departed Rabwah

on the morning before the Fajr prayer at 4am. In Masjid Mubarak, the companion of the Promised Messiahas, Sufi Ghulam Muhammad Sahib led the Fajr prayer and Sahibzada Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib announced that Huzoorrh was not arriving due to some religious engagements, and that for this reason, the revered Sufi Sahib would lead the prayer.

The actual convoy had departed at 4am in the morning. The dummy convoy had left in the morning at 5am, and Sahibzada Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Sahib and this humble one bade farewell to this convoy.

Sahibzada Mirza Munawar Ahmad Sahib and Sahibzada Mirza Anas Ahmad Sahib etc. were also included in this convoy.

After departing Rabwah in 1984, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh had called a counsel regarding certain matters, and

he had set a Majlis-e-Shura for this consultation as well. The Shura took place in the beginning of September, 1984. A representative was to go to London with the counsel. Accordingly, Huzoorrh decided that this humble one would travel to London with the counsel. In this journey, Advocate Mujibur Rahman Sahib of Rawalpindi was with me. We finally travelled to London during September 1984.

Prior to departing for London, Huzoorrh instructed me to come for fifteen days. My return practically occurred fourteen months later in November, 1985.

During this period, the late Masud Ahmad Sahib, Nasim Mahdi Sahib, Nawab Mansur Ahmad Khan Sahib, Muhammad Aslam Shad Mangla Sahib and myself would assist Huzoorrh. Later, Mubarak Ahmad Saqi Sahib also joined us. Mirza Naseer Ahmad Sahib, missionary in England, also continued to assist us. In April, 1985, Chaudhry Mubarak Muslehuddin Ahmad Sahib, who had come to London for the purpose of treatment, also continually assisted us.

I had arrived in London on 25 September 1984. A few days after arrival, Huzoorrh said, “We shall organise a Jalsa Salana here. For this reason, propose a name for Afsar Jalsa?” Thus, in the beginning of October 1984, a Malis-e-Amila meeting was summoned. Anwar Ahmad Kahlon Sahib was Amir of the UK Jamaat at the time. The Majlis-e-Amila proposed Hidayatullah Bangvi Sahib to be appointed as Afsar Jalsa. Therefore, Huzoorrh accepted this proposal and Hidayatullah Bangvi Sahib began to work in the capacity of Afsar Jalsa Salana. Huzoorrh instructed me to guide him regarding work at Jalsa.

It was decided that the Jalsa would be

held in April, 1985. Along with [this decision], Huzoorrh instructed that the International Shura would happen following the Jalsa, and Huzoorrh instructed this humble one to make arrangements for it.

In relation to, and regarding, the occurrence of the Jalsa and Shura, guidelines were dispatched to Jamaats around the world, including Pakistan, that friends over there should also take part in the Jalsa. It was decided that the Jalsa would be held in Islamabad (Tilford). The Jalsa Gah could be constructed by erecting a marquee whereas arrangements for accommodation were difficult to an extent. The state of the buildings in Islamabad was abysmal.

To make them fit for lodging, the UK Jamaat did a great deal of Waqar-e-Amal. A lot of repair work was such which could only be accomplished by professional labour. This work was executed under the supervision of Abdul Baqi Arshad Sahib, and the buildings were prepared for accommodation before the Jalsa. The lack of space was fulfilled through tents etc.

It was the final day of the Jalsa. Huzoorrh was delivering the final address of Jalsa Salana, yet at the same time, strong showers of rain were pelting down. Huzoor’s speech continued. The appointed time for departure of the buses which had transported guests from London had passed. Huzoor’s speech still continued.

The drivers started to protest that if they were delayed, they would not be able to go to their next shifts on time. Anwar Ahmad Kahlon Sahib drew my attention towards this. I replied, “I cannot tell Huzoor to shorten his address when the speech is also at its climax.” However, such a change occurred that after a short while, the drivers themselves offered to wait until the end of Huzoor’s address.

On the final day of the Jalsa, so much rain had fallen that the buses had sunk in the mud, and only with great difficulty were they pulled out.

The Blessed Days of the Promised Messiahas Narrated by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

Baba Karim Baksh Sialkoti Sahib narrates, on account of Maulvi Abdur Rahman Mubashar Sahib: “This is an account of the Jalsa of 1905-1906.

I arrived in Masjid Aqsa to offer prayers. In that age, Masjid Aqsa was small in size. I laid my woollen blanket over the shoes and Chaudhry Ghulam Muhammad Sahib and Mir Hamid Shah Siakoti Sahib started to offer their prayers there as well. By that time, the Promised Messiahas also arrived and began offering his prayer, standing beside us. After we had observed our prayers, an Arya Samajist who had occupied the building

nearby began uttering abuse because a few other friends were offering prayers on the roof of his building. Whilst he was hurling insults, Huzooras stepped onto the rostrum and started to explain the circumstances of the age of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and atrocities of the people, upon which most friends began to weep.

“In the meantime, I immersed myself in a market for a particular errand. On the way back, I noticed quite a large throng. In the meanwhile, the following words of Huzooras fell to my ears: Sit down! Huzooras said this whilst addressing the

people. As soon as I heard those words, I sat down there in the market. I arrived onto the steps of the mosque in this state and listened to Huzoor’s speech.”

I [Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra] would like to add that this kind of incident has also been narrated in a Hadith regarding the companion, Hazrat Abdullahra bin Rawaha, who heard this manner of call of the Holy Prophetsa and sat down upon the very road itself. This is a sign of love and complete obedience, and it is by the grace of God that the example of sincerity in Ahmadiyyat follows in the exact footsteps of the early companions.

7

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

A Jalsa Gah Called

Islamabad

The first prayer at Islamabad after its purchase led by Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh

Abdul Baqi Arshad Afsar Jalsa Salana (1992-1998)

I

t was a momentous and historic event for the UK Jamaat when we learnt at the Fajr prayer through a specially convened Amila meeting on the morning of 30 April 1984 that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh was migrating to UK and would be arriving later that day. I was instructed by Amir Sahib to immediately fly to Amsterdam, Holland and had the honour to welcome Huzoorrh on behalf of the UK Jamaat and accompany him to London.

Soon after Huzoor’s arrival, it was felt necessary by the UK Jamaat to find a suitable place outside London, large enough to hold our Jalsa Salana and other events. As Secretary Jaidad for UK, I was instructed to look at various sites, which were referred to the Jamaat. A number of sites, among which was one in Midlands, were visited in the course of the next few months but none of them were suitable for our requirements.

In September 1984, we were advised that an approximately 25-acre site of an old residential boarding school was for sale through auction, situated in Tilford, Surrey and consisting of a number of timber-framed buildings. The site was inspected, and we felt that it suited our requirements. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh was than requested to visit the site. After Huzoor’s inspection and approval, I was instructed by Huzoorrh to bid for it at the auction which was to be held on 18 September 1984 by a real-estate agent, Barnard Marcus.

I went to the auction, as directed, and with Huzoor’s special prayers, was successful in securing the site at for around £423,000. The site was named “Islamabad”

by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Huzoorrh also spoke about the acquisition of this

site in his Friday Sermon of 21 September 1984 where he stated that although, presently, this site seemed to be more than our needs, but our experience had shown that whenever we expanded our mosques, God Almighty soon made it insufficient for us. Therefore, Huzoorrh said, we had purchased this land with the prayer that we propagate Islam and to grow manifold so as to make even this place small for our needs, after which Allah would enable us to purchase a larger property.

After the site was acquired, the momentous task of renovating and refurbishing the buildings, which were in a considerable state of disrepair, was undertaken.

With the help of Taj Din Sahib, Raja Munir Sahib and Akhtar Sahib (from East London) and along with the help and waqare-amal [voluntary labour] of volunteers from Khuddam and Ansar, we started to the enormous task of renovation.

The first caretaker was Rashid Khan Sahib of Midlands. In the first instance we renovated and furnished Huzoor’s personal residence and guesthouse in block N for temporary use as Private Secretary’s office, and the guesthouse as well as building block I for the Mosque. Later, in mid-1986, two builders and two carpenters, Aziz Sahib and Ahsan Sahib came from Pakistan to assist full time on the renovation and refurbishment. The residential blocks were converted, one-by-one, to a number of 1and 2-bedroom flats to house the growing number of Waqifeen working in various departments of Jamaat.

The first UK Jalsa Salana was held in April 1985 amid severe weather conditions prevailing at the time. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh appointed Chaudhry Hidayatullah Bangvi Sahib as Afsar Jalsa Salana

and myself as his Naib [deputy]. After Chaudhry Sahib’s demise in 1991, I was appointed as Afsar Jalsa Salana. From 1986 onwards, the UK Jalsa Salana continued to be held at the end of July in the grounds of Islamabad. A printing press and a roti-plant were also added to meet the ever-increasing requirements of the Jamaat.

In late 1989 and early 1990, the local council, provoked by some neighbours’ complaints, questioned the use of the site and served us with an enforcement notice for change in planning permission. We therefore had to employ the services of a well-known city law firm – Messrs. Theodore Goddard – who were eventually able to overcome the local councils’ objections and obtain cancellation of the enforcement notice.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh wanted us to organise this first International event to be held in the UK on the traditions of Markaz, and therefore instructed me to obtain details of the Jalsa organisation and office bearers’ responsibilities from Wakile-A‘la , Chaudhry Hameedullah Sahib in Pakistan, who had experience as Afsar Jalsa Salana in Pakistan prior to Huzoor’s arrival in the UK; I was told to follow the same pattern. We, because of our lack of experience in hosting international events of this nature, were also fortunate to receive continuous guidance and instructions from Huzoorrh.

Later on in the subsequent years, the organisation of Jalsa undoubtedly improved tremendously; most of the work and waqar-e-amal was completed only a couple of months prior to Jalsa. Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya from various regions would go to Islamabad and do all the work – mostly painting, repairing barrack-roofs and other forms of maintenance.

A number of Jamaat members from Germany used to come to attend Jalsa Salana UK and would work alongside us with great perseverance and patience.

We also used to have a registration team, and as this was our first experience in many areas of the task, we experienced slow computer systems during those days, naturally causing long queues to form out-

side the registration marquee. At one Jalsa, I recall that we had recently changed the ID system and that caused a lot of chaos.

There were long queues building up, particularly for those coming from Germany because we did not personally know most of them and had to use a special identification system. After complaints were made for undue registration delays, Amir Sahib Germany came specially to our assistance and helped in expediting registration of members from Germany Jamaat. Thus, the whole process started to move faster because he could identify most of the people. Generally, we used to start preparing for Jalsa at least three months before Jalsa Salana.

Just before the Jalsa Salana of 1991, Hidayatullah Bangvi Sahib fell ill. It used to be Huzoor’s practice that Huzoorrh would visit all the nizamats [departments] and ask questions about the various arrangements, and Afsar Jalsa Salana would accompany Huzoorrh along with other people who were part of the Jalsa organisation. On that occasion, I remember, because Bangvi Sahib was suffering from heart problems, Huzoorrh told him to stay seated in the car and not to walk. He was a bit reluctant because Huzoorrh was walking and he was following Huzoorrh in the car, but Huzoorrh instructed him to remain seated in the car.

Immediately after that Jalsa, Bangvi Sahib passed away.

Huzoor then appointed me as Afsar Jalsa Salana, and I remained Afsar Jalsa Salana until 1998.

Throughout that period, the attendance grew significantly every year. The Jalsa conventions that started off from six or seven thousand in attendance, grew to an attendance of more than 20,000 by the last few Jalsas to be held in Islamabad. The car park facility, just like all other facilities, became insufficient. By 2004, we knew that Islamabad might not be able to hold the rapidly growing number of Jalsa guests and also, consequently, the swelling paraphernalia.

Then started the search for a larger place which resulted in the purchase of Hadiqatul Mahdi in Alton.

8

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Hadiqatul Mahdi A Turning Point in UK Jalsa History

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba at the first inspection of Hadiqatul Mahdi

Dr Chaudhry Nasir Ahmad Afsar Jalsa Salana (1999-2008)

was given the responsibility of Afsar IArshad Jalsa Salana in 1999 after Abdul Baqi Sahib. We hosted Jalsa Salana in

Islamabad until 2004, but the site was somewhat overcrowded and the number of attendees of Jalsa in those days was in the range of 22,000. So there was a need to move out from Islamabad.

In 2005 we held Jalsa Salana in the Rushmoor Arena, which was a hired facility. Jalsa Salana had outgrown Islamabad and we quickly felt the need for a much larger and more suitable location. Jalsa Salana UK 2005 taught us a number of things because in the arena there were no toilet facilities, drainage system or water supply; all these were hurdles. But Alhamdolillah – all praise be to Allah – we managed to hold Jalsa for one year there.

In the meantime, we were looking for a site to hold Jalsa Salana on, and in 2005 (I think it was around June-July when) a site came on the market. Nasser Khan Sahib and I went to see the site. It seemed like a decent place to host Jalsa Salana and so, we proposed it to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa and we said that it was a site which could potentially be a permanent site for Jalsa Salana. Huzooraa very graciously accepted the proposal for the new Jalsa site, which costed approximately two million pounds. It

was a 208-acre site which we acquired just before the Jalsa in 2005 which, as I said, was held in Rushmoor.

Immediately after Jalsa Salana in 2005, we started preparation on this location and invited council officers, local police and local parish councillors just to bring them on the same level and tell them what we were planning to do. Initially the response was very positive; even the council officers who attended that meeting said that we probably didn’t need any planning and that we would be able to use the site for our annual conventions, so long as the construction work was underground.

They were familiar with our Jalsa Salana from when it was in Islamabad and thus, they all took it very positively.

We planned to install the drainage underground; that was the first step. The next step required us to lay underground electric cables and water pipes. As soon as we started that work, the neighbours did not like it and they objected to the council, so everybody got together again. We asked, “Where do we go from here?” It was suggested that we should apply for planning permission to hold the convention annually. Therefore, we went along with that and hired a company who prepared the paperwork and applied for planning permission on

our behalf to the local council.

A group in the parish council were against it, and they opposed the application. Eventually the planning application was passed on to a committee, which had a certain number of councillors. We attended that meeting and in that meeting our agent presented our case for the Jalsa in Hadiqatul Mahdi, after which there was voting. I was given the chance to speak in that committee and I presented the fact that, permission or not, we were going to have the Jalsa on the site anyway – we would go ahead with our annual convention because we had already bought the site for this purpose. I said that even if we had to arrange everything within 28 days as the law stated, we would complete all construction work, install the drainage and rest of the infrastructure each year for Jalsa Salana and at the end of it, we would disassemble everything and empty the site. Thus, I said, it was the committee’s decision whether they were prepared to live with this kind of disruption each year or just one single disruption and forget about it once for all. And I think at that point, something sunk into the minds of the councillors and committee members, and when time came for casting the votes, the chairman’s vote was what turned the

decision in our favour.

Alhamdolillah, that was a massive turning point and we got the permission we needed. So, we had the water flowing all around the site, the drainage installed everywhere and a tank to collect all the water. Similarly, we had the electricity cable going all the way around providing electricity everywhere. And these facilities were essential for Jalsa.

So once we had accomplished all necessary steps, we then held Jalsa Salana 2006 in Hadiqatul Mahdi. Well before the event, a situation arose where the local press began saying that thirty-thousand Muslims would be trespassing into their village, destroying the peace and quiet of their village, and transforming the atmosphere of the locality. That was what the headings said before Jalsa Salana, and after the Jalsa, the same newspapers had headings saying, we couldn’t even tell you had a convention here. There was no music or disturbance!

The weather was extremely pleasant.

We managed to contain all the car parks inside the site and so, it was the perfect situation. The owner who sold us the land offered his services, and they continue to do so today. Hence, again, that was another turning point of the Jamaat’s history. The councillors were satisfied, the police authorities were satisfied and the local parish council was also happy.

All those who objected to our convening the Jalsa came and congratulated us.

And from there onwards, we have been holding Jalsa in Hadiqatul Mahdi.

That was only just one of the challenges. 2007 was the trouble year and that was because of torrential rain throughout the month of July, which in fact, caused major flooding in many parts of England. In terms of the weather, holding the Jalsa at the end of that month proved extremely challenging for us.

I remember the day of inauguration, we were walking in the mud towards the Jalsa site where the main marquee was and I felt extremely anxious, however, Huzoor-e-Anwaraa had no sign of worry.

The rain had already caused many problems since before the Jalsa, but the rain continued throughout the 3-day period. But, again, these hurdles taught us lessons for the future. That was the year when we started using hard surfaces for tracks and roads, and then we started putting flooring in the marquees. And from there onwards, it was one improvement after the other.

Alhamdolillah, now, I feel that we have matured enough to have reached the situation where we can face any eventualities that may come, whether it is weather or otherwise – all praise is only due to Allah.

2003 was the first Jalsa of Khilafat-eKhamisa, and that was in Islamabad – that was a new experience during a new Khilafat. I think we learnt a lot from that Jalsa. The attendance was quite high as well. From then onwards, I think we were in a position where we needed to improve the quality of the marquee and

9

Friday 03 August 2018 | AL HAKAM 100 Years Ago ...

Progress Never Stops Jalsa Salana 1918 In 1918 the subcontinent was visited by an influenza Pandemic which resulted in the decision to move the Jalsa Salana to April 1919. Though the Jalsa was intended to take place during the Easter break of 1919 to facilitate the rural communities, it was held during March. Some highlights of Jalsa 1918 along with announcements published in the days leading up to it and immediately after it are presented below which gives us an insight as to how the essence and importance of Jalsa was spread 100 years ago.

Programme for Jalsa 1918 (held on 15-17 of March 1919) An image of the document which bears the signature of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa when he named the site Hadiqatul Mahdi | Ahmadiyya ARC

“The UK Shura was taking place in the preceding days. During this Shura, people were curious to know what the new place that has been acquired in Alton for the UK Jalsa had been named.

I stated that I would disclose it not only to Shura but during Jumua. Various names were received which were proposed by some individuals. However, the name that I am proposing is Hadiqatul Mahdi.”

Friday Sermon, Hazrat Khaliftul Masih Vaa, 30 June 2006

the size of the marquee. That was one of the challenges.

When I started duty as Afsar Jalsa Salana in Islamabad, the marquee’s width was around 40 metres but the length was 100 metres, so the vision was like a tunnel. The attendance was growing substantially and we were looking for a marquee which was wider than 40 metres. What we discovered was that anything above 40 metres wide was not available in the UK and it had to be ordered from Europe. So initially, I went to see Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh and informed him of the predicament.

He very simply instructed us to go to Germany.

And so, we immediately contacted the Germany Jalsa administration and they cooperated by providing contact with a company who they also used for their Jalsa. Alhamdolillah, that year we had very competitive price for a 50 metres wide marquee. I think it was 2001 so I was a bit worried initially because I had in my mind the juggernauts that come from Europe, bringing the stuff in on the tiny roads of Islamabad and the vicinity. So I spoke to the sales manager of a Dutch company, Neptunus, and invited him to visit Islamabad before going for the contract. He came, had a thorough look at the site and said that it would be no problem at all.

This Dutch company brought their structure from Holland and put it up for us in Islamabad and we experienced

a very smooth Jalsa. On Sunday that same sales manager came back to Islamabad and he suggested that if we wanted to continue then we should have a contract through a British company.

I think there was an arrangement that anything below 40 metres, the UK had to provide to Europe and anything above 40 metres, Europe had to provide to the UK. He said that if we went through that company, it would be easier for them administratively. I replied that we had no objection in doing so, provided they reduced the price. He replied that we would get the same price for three years.

That was quite encouraging, so we then went through our company to them and we continued to use their services.

Then, in 2007 or 2008, we changed the company from Neptunus to De Boer, which is another Dutch company, but they have a slightly larger stock.

De Boer is the company that does the Farnborough Air Show. That’s normally ahead of us so they bring the structure there and shift it to Hadiqatul Mahdi.

And it becomes a competitive price as well.

We will be able to host Jalsa Salana in Hadiqatul Mahdi for a significant period of time in the future as we are only using a third of the land owned by us, but, bearing in mind the rapid growth of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK, there will be a time when we will have to look for a bigger site.

Saturday 15 March 1919 (morning session): 1. Maulvi Mahfuzul-Haq Sahib 2. Hakim Maulvi Khalil Ahmad Sahib Thereafter, there was a break for Salat which was followed by a second session chaired by Seith Abdullah Alladin Sahib.

Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahibra delivered an address on the truth of the Promised Messiahas.

Sunday 16 March 1919: The morning session began at 9am and was chaired by Maulvi Ali Ahmad Sahib (Professor Bhagalpur College) who also delivered a brief address. Thereafter, the following reports were presented: 1. Dr Khalifa Rashiduddin Sahibra (Secretary Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya) presented a report highlighting the undertakings of the Anjuman 2. Hazrat Maulvi Sher Alira, in the capacity of Nazim-e-Ala, presented a report 3. Maulvi Sheikh Abdul Rahman Sahib presented a report on Umur-e-Ama 4. Sheikh Muhammad Mubarak Ismail Sahib, Naib Nazir Talim and Tarbiyat, presented a report After this Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Siyal Sahibra delivered a speech. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra then proceeded to address the Jalsa on Irfan-e-Ilahi [Cognizance of God].

Monday 17 March 1919: The first session of the day was chaired

by Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra with the opening speech delivered by Hazrat Hafiz Roshan Alira, which was followed by a short speech by Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra.

The Jalsa concluded with the closing address of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. Our Jalsa is not a festival, rather its objectives are unique.

A day before the inauguration of Jalsa Salana, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra delivered a Friday Sermon and highlighted the importance of deriving maximum benefit from it.

“If those who come here do not convene [for the sessions of Jalsa], they walk around without purpose and thus waste their time.

They should remember that this is not a festival. This Jalsa – under Divine will – has been established through the Promised Messiahas so that centuries of decay that had shrouded the hearts of humans be washed away, and those that were in darkness and oppression be elevated to the tower of light.

Thus, Allah the Exalted wishes to gather people at this place so that He may purify them. The individual who does not fulfil these objectives, his faith is in danger. You all have very little time, hence you should spend it well and gain much benefit from it,

and you should act upon whatever is relayed to you.” (Friday Sermon, delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra on 14 March 1919, Al Fazl, 1 April 1919) A Welcome to Those Arriving in Qadian In the days leading up to Jalsa, various articles were published in the Jamaat’s newspapers and periodicals, encouraging Ahmadis to partake in this Jalsa and remind them of the spiritual benefit attached to such a gathering.

Moreover, we repeatedly find the theme of encouraging the residents of Qadian to ensure every effort is made for the hospitality of guests of the Promised Messiahas.

‫ن‬ ‫زم اقد ی�اں اب رتحمم ےہ‬ ِ ‫ی‬ ِ ‫ارض رحم ےہ‬ ِ ‫وجہم قلخ ےس‬

“The land of Qadian is now revered; by the gathering of people, it is a sacred land.

“O you who are coming to the holy and respected land of Qadian! I welcome you with sincerity and love. The wave of emotion that surges alongside the blood in your veins in a state of full faith and determination moves other hearts like the effect of lightning. There is no doubt that you tread upon the beloved and esteemed land of God with respect and regard and witness the signs of God within it. What doubt is there that every individual amongst you is a sign of God himself? It is for this reason that every individual among the residents of Qadian, seeing you as a sign of God, considers your respect and esteem a part of their faith.

“According to Divine revelation, the Champion of Allah in the garbs of the Prophets [i.e. the Promised Messiahas] stated, ‘They will come to you from every distant track.’ Hence, whoever comes from whatever far-off distance, they become, in the same proportion, a grand part of the importance and might of this Divine sign. Our hearts are saturated with love, and we consider it our honour that we are able to witness signs of God Almighty in such number.

“Hence, when, in the capacity of an old servant of this community, I greet you, I do not do so pretentiously or by mere custom, but rather an uncontrollable emotion arises after seeing the blessings of God Almighty.

Therefore, once again I say, ‘Ahlan wa sahlan wa marhaba’ – may God Almighty make this journey successful and blessed for you in every way.” (Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfani Sahibra, Al Hakam, 7 March 1919) 9 prayers of the Promised Messiahas for participants of Jalsa “The Promised Messiahas prayed the following for those who travelled for this Continued on page 15

10

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Jalsa Salana – A Mighty Sign from God Almighty To mark the blessed occasion of the 2018 UK Jalsa Salana, the Fazle Umar Foundation English Desk has translated an excerpt from a Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, the Promised Reformer and Second Successor of the Promised Messiahas, on 28 November 1930 in which Huzoorra discourses on the importance of the Jalsa Salana and how it is a Divine sign from God.

F

or the past few days I have been suffering from otalgia and have faced further discomfort from the growth of a lump and attacks of migraine. Therefore, I was unable to deliver the past two Friday sermons. By the grace of Allah the Exalted, I have recovered from the last two ailments. However, the pain in my ear is such that I have never experienced anything like it before and it has, for the time being, made me somewhat hard of hearing.

A person can only comprehend the true nature of a hardship once they have experienced it for themselves. For example, one can only understand the struggles faced by a deaf person once they have gone through the same misery. Moreover, for a speaker, a clogged ear is a severe aggravation. It hinders their ability to deduce whether their voice is reaching their audience or not. Nor can they discern whether they are speaking at an appropriate level for their audience or too loudly. In much the same way, I too am unable to sense whether or not I am currently talking in a manner that is appropriate for the gathering before me.

Today, I wish to comment on the fact that by the grace of God Almighty, our Jalsa Salana is once again [fast] approaching. As I have said numerous times before, this gathering is one sign among the many shown by Allah the Exalted. There was a time when no one visited Qadian. Though many would travel here from far off places upon hearing the name of the Promised Messiahas, they

would often return to [their homes] from Amritsar and Batala at being told that this town was the home of a famous antichrist.

Even today, there are many people within our community who live with the regret of not visiting Qadian during the lifetime of the Promised Messiahas. They too only got as far as Batala or Amritsar because the enemies of our community deceived them. After hearing what they had to say, they decided against visiting Qadian. If they had done so, they would have been included among the Companions of the Promised Messiahas.

Though Allah the Exalted enabled them to accept Ahmadiyyat because their intentions were true and sincere, they were deprived of the Promised Messiah’s companionship.

The participants of the first Jalsa held in Qadian were so small in number that they would have been no more than one-sixth or one-seventh of the total people gathered in the mosque today for this Friday sermon.

However, back then, this was heralded as a great triumph. I cannot say for certain which of the first four Jalsas it was, but I recall that a blue sheet was laid out in a room situated in front of the old book depot that has now been replaced by a tailor shop. Nor can I remember the speech that was delivered on the occasion as I was just a child, but I do recall the Promised Messiahas going there and the entire sheet being able to accommodate all the attendees. Hence that Jalsa was no larger than a modestly sized wedding reception.

Such is the way things were. However, today, despite the fact that Qadian has expanded and properties in the town as well as the buildings of our community and our members have only grown in number and size, and even though the members of the community give over their homes for the guests who come for the Jalsa, we still have to ask non-Ahmadis and Hindus to let us use their homes to accommodate our guests.

I remember that during the Promised Messiah’sas last Jalsa Salana, I did not accompany him on his [regular] walk, but when he returned, he told me that due to the amount of guests, it might prove difficult for him to go out again. He had not been able to travel far because the dust [which rose from the feet of the large number of guests who accompanied him] made it impossible for him to continue. According to most estimates, approximately 700 people attended that Jalsa, far fewer than the number sitting before me in the mosque today. I do not recall the speeches that were delivered that year, but I remember that at the time, the parapet of the mosque ended just after the grave that is situated in the mosque’s courtyard. The courtyard was much smaller in those days.

The participants sat here while the Promised Messiahas delivered his address seated on a chair in front of the middle door of the mosque. Me and a few others sat on the parapet while the mosque was completely full and all of us took great pleasure in the fact that in accordance with the prophe-

cies of God Almighty, the community had spread enormously. However, today at this Friday sermon, there are three times as many people are there were back then.

With the full power at its disposal, the world and all the followers of its religions, their scholars and mystics, their rich and poor, their men and women have ardently strived to halt the spread of this community. They resorted to deceit and falsehoods, published derogatory remarks and used every possible means they could think of [to derail our community]. Just as a single hand cannot stop the water of a river from flowing and just as sand slips between the fingers, similarly, the [spiritual] light the Promised Messiahas brought with him spread [and slipped] through the hands of the world’s elders, scholars and mystics before reaching out across the entire earth. Thus the world witnessed another sign just as it did during the time of Noahas, Abrahamas, Mosesas and Muhammadsa the Messenger of Allah.

Despite their hate and prejudice, in their hearts, [our enemies] know that everything that was to destined to happen has occurred. Although, the world still considers us insignificant, it knows well that we will grow into a large community. Many have let go of their hate and view our community with respect and reverence. Despite the differences in our faith, beliefs and approach, they all agree that we alone are a [successful and] functioning community. This too is a form of recognition and means that our [spiritual] river has extended [into their hearts]. Anyone who lives in a place where canals are common, might have witnessed small springs of water forming in their surroundings. Although these springs are not canals themselves, they form similar water trails. In the same way, thousands and indeed millions of hearts have been soaked [by the spiritual water of the Promised Messiahas]. [Even those] who are not Ahmadis have little choice but to acknowledge the services rendered by Ahmadiyyat. We ought to reflect over our circumstances. An honest introspection would reveal that we are incapable of achieving the things our community has succeeded in so far. How then are they being accomplished? We are incapable of realising these tasks and yet somehow our endeavours are always fulfilled. The only answer to this is that God Almighty carries them out Himself.

Listen to what the rulers of the country have to say about us. They too recognise the importance of this community. Not so long ago, the current governor of the Punjab said during an address that our community is a shining example in the field of education. Whereas, if we give a little thought to this statement, we will soon realise just how educated we actually are. How then are we considered to be an educated community?

Surely, it is because of the light which we have received from the Promised Messiahas; otherwise, in terms of our formal education we are not especially better off than others.

However, in terms of our mental advancement and learning, we have gained instruction in an institution that other people have Continued on page 14

11

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

In the Line of Duty

Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib - Afsar Jalsa Salana Rabwah 1963-1973 English Rendering from Sirat-e-Daud hose that present themselves for the hospitality T and comfort of the guests that attend Jalsa for the sake of Allah and fulfil the obligations of hospitality never fall short of partaking in blessings.

It was for this hospitality that Allah the Exalted – from the High Throne – revealed to his Messiahas: ��‫ﻳااﻳﻬا الﻨﺒﻰ اﻃﻌمﻮا ا��اﺋﻊ و المﻌ‬ “O Prophet, feed the hungry and those who supplicate.” This means that those who undertake the hospitality of the blessed guests attending this blessed gathering, fulfil the responsibility of hospitality placed upon the Promised Messiahas.

Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib was appointed Afsar [Officer] Jalsa Salana for the first time at the 1963 Jalsa and continued to serve in this capacity until his demise.

According to eye witness testimony, Mir Sahib too, much like his esteemed father, would spend day and night in the service of guests. In 1963, upon appointment as Afsar Jalsa Salana, his first endeavour was to publish an informative announcement regarding the hospitality of guests.

Al Fazl wrote on this matter: “For the ease of guests travelling this year, an announcement titled ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan Wa Marhaba’ to those attending Jalsa Salana Rabwah has been published, in which, apart from highlighting the purpose of Jalsa Salana, important guidelines have been issued about how to benefit from its magnificent blessings. Moreover, necessary details related to the Community’s accommodation, arrival times of special transport, return timings and porter fees are also included. This announcement shall be distributed prior to Jalsa amongst those present at the stations of Sargodha, Hindyo-wali, Lyallpur [now Faisalabad], Chak Jhumra and Chiniot. Such beneficial information can be obtained from reading

it that guests will be aided towards their respective accommodations after arriving at Rabwah Station.”

The task of hospitality at Jalsa Salana is a vital, vast and dutiful one. Motivating those that are tasked with the care and hospitality of guests, the correct and timely manner of taking service from the cooks, providing the goods on time and arranging for insulation etc. – in short, such a branch entails vital duties within it. Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib, similar to his revered father Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaq Sahibra, was characterised with a high degree of hospitality and was one who would pay full attention towards the respect of elders.

His passion for hospitality of Jalsa guests would be fully manifested with love and affection. Two or three years ago, he went to inspect the initial organisation of the accommodation at Jamia Ahmadiyya. After seeing mattresses laid out in all the rooms, he went back to his office and said, “How can the rest of the rooms be blessed through the accommodation of guests while my office remains deprived? This is not possible.” He immediately called his workers and instructed them to empty his office and stated, “Guests should certainly be accommodated in this office.” Hence, it came to pass, giving him great delight.

Munir Ahmad Sahib Chattha – missionary from Nigeria writes: “Mir Sahib would always highly respect the guests that would come for Jalsa. When a new hostel was erected at Jamia Ahmadiyya, the washrooms had toilets that flushed water. At the occasion of Jalsa Salana, the hostel was being emptied for guests. A student said that the flush system should be closed. Mir Sahib became very displeased when he heard this and said, ‘You wish for every kind of comfort for yourself and want to close down the flush system for the guests? I am amazed at those who use every kind of facility throughout the year, but at Jalsa, close them down for the guests of the Promised Messiahas.’”

Taking care of the elderly and attending to matters related to the comfort of guests, Mukhtar Ahmad Sahib Hashmi narrates: “Respected Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib would take Continued on page 18

MTA Documentaries Being Aired During Jalsa Salana 2018

Jamaat in Press and Media (The Jamaat in the media from the beginning to now)

Global Political Turmoil & the Jamaat – (The political turmoil in the world and what is Jamaat role in the politics or in the modern world)

From Fields to a Tent City (How Jalsa goes from becoming a town buzzing with life from a mere field)

From Home to Jalsa – Ghana and Mauritius (Guests travelling from their hometown to Jalsa and their journey)

IMage to be taken from MTA

Khilafat in the Early Days (Khilafat in the early days, starting from Qadian and the history of Khilafat in Qadian)

Huzoor'saa Engagments 2017-18 (A year in review of Huzoor's busy schedule – a glimpse)

Empowerment of Women (Power of women, their rights in islam)

Global Economic Crisis & the Jamaat (Solutions provided by the Jamaat to the global economic plight)

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

12

The International Bai‘at Ceremony “Blessed will be those fortunate delegations who will be invited to the Jalsa for the Bai’it ceremony, and submitting themselves to the divine call, place their hands onto the hands of the Khalifa of God’s holy Messiah and join the community of the Imam Mahdi for the prevalence of Islam.”

I

n the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty promised that he would strengthen the religion of Islam through true Khilafat. Thus, in association with the established Khilafat of God Almighty, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat is a group of believers who are daily observing the fulfilment of this Divine promise in a majestic manner.

This is that community which is advancing with steadfastness, by strongly holding onto the rope of Allah and resisting all unfavourable circumstances with great resolve and courage, on the manifest path to the victory of Islam, based on the succour of God the Glorious. It is without a shadow of doubt that the rising sun of every new day sees the Ahmadiyya Jamaat to have expanded and grown stronger, more than before. The land of the opponents is constricting, and God Almighty is expanding the land of Ahmadiyyat – the true Islam.

Each and every scheme of the successors of the Promised Messiahas is assisted by God Almighty, and they are schemes which bear great blessings. From among these grand schemes, one such scheme which Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh initiated, was the International Bai‘at ceremony. The manner in which Allah the Almighty bestowed blessings upon this scheme is remarkable and also extremely faith-inspiring. Where the grand outcomes and fruits of this blessed scheme indicate the fact that this was a purely Divine scheme, it also becomes plain that the wind of the unity of God is whirling from heaven.

Angels are descending in great numbers on those with pious natures, and those days are not far when God Almighty will gather all good-natured people on one hand, whether they reside in the east or the west. Today, it is only our duty to continue proclaiming ev:erywhere ‫جاء المسیح جاء المسیح‬ [The Messiah has come; the Messiah has come] and have faith that: ‫ن‬ ‫سج یک رطفت ی‬ ‫� ےہ وہ ٓاےئ اگ ااجنم اکر‬ [He who has a pious nature, will join our fold eventually]. Under special Divine inspiration, the leader of the faithful, Hazrat Mir-

za Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh issued an instruction to the worldwide Ahmadiyya Community, three and a half months prior to the 1993 Jalsa, saying: “This year, an international Bai‘at ceremony will be held via satellite on the occasion of Jalsa Salana in which a minimum of a thousand pledges of initiation will be taken from people of various countries. Yet, it is expected that from the several countries where God Almighty casts special focus, we shall receive pledges of initiation in sometimes tens of thousands and sometimes many more. Insha-Allah.

“This Bai‘at ceremony shall transpire in the following manner: those taking the pledge of initiation in a country will take part in the Bai‘at ceremony through satellite and in the UK, their delegates who shall be invited to the Jalsa for this purpose, will perform the pledge of initiation, on their behalf, at the hand of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.

This will be such a unique and dear pledge of initiation in the sight of God which shall encompass the face of the earth. This will be such a Bai‘at that, whilst coming from the heights of the heavens, shall encompass the expanse of the Earth. This shall certainly be accepted before God. Thus, blessed will be those fortunate countries wherein so many pledges of initiation shall be achieved that they will be granted the honour to delegate in the Jalsa Salana. Blessed will be those fortunate delegations who shall be invited to the Jalsa for the Bai‘at ceremony, and submitting themselves to the Divine call, place their hands at the hand of the Khalifa of God’s Holy Messiahas and join the community of the Imam Mahdias for the prevalence of Islam. And blessed will be those individuals who, participating in this unique first international Bai‘at ceremony and then, by becoming helpers and assistants of the Imam Mahdi, shall strive for the victory of Islam.

“Thus, step up your pace, relying on prayers, with strong resolve and the praise of God. Irrigate your efforts with tears and advance the number of pledges of initiation to such a level that they arrive at this blessed occasion at the appointed time. Arise today,

plan, and in order to be victorious in the field, set forth one and all of the community in it. May Allah grant you success.”

This was the message which was dispatched from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh to all countries by fax in April 1993. Responding to this call of Huzoorrh, all the missionaries and sincere individuals of the world set themselves forth into the field of tabligh. They became prepared to proclaim the message of the Promised Messiahas, filled with sincerity and the spirit of faith. God Almighty has greatly blessed the words of the Khalifa of the time and caused such favourable winds for the acceptance of the message of Ahmadiyyat to gush with great glory around the entire world, that tasks which would take years to complete, were settled in a matter of days. Such showers of God’s grace rained down, the mention of which causes the heart to be replete with the praise of God. On the third day of the 28th Jalsa Salana UK – on 1 August 1993 – the first International Bai‘at ceremony was held in Islamabad (Tilford) in which 204,308 fortunate persons joined the community. Besides this, hundreds of thousands of Ahmadis from across the entire globe also renewed their pledges at the hand of the Khalifa of the time.

Prior to the arrival of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, people were sat in an order according to the guidelines issued. At around 1pm, Huzoorrh arrived in the Jalsa Gah, attired in the green-coloured blessed coat of the Promised Messiah and Imam and Mahdi of the age, peace be on him. Huzoorrh, mentioning its significance, background and purpose, delivered a short speech prior to taking the pledge of initiation in which he stated: “Since the creation of the heavens and the earth, no eye has observed a scene where numerous countries and nations from every continent are simultaneously taking the pledge of initiation at the hand of a single person in different languages, and that too of a humble servant of the servant of the Holy Prophetsa. This is a fact which is being observed for the first time in the history of the world and in future, it will continue forever. You people are fortunate who are present

here for the international pledge of initiation and those too who are listening and watching by radio or television and in this manner, gaining the honour of participating in it.

“Regarding the International Bai‘at ceremony, I would like to briefly mention that when Allah Almighty placed this inspiration in my heart, the number of those taking the pledge of initiation was 10,00 to 20,000 or perhaps more, and a very short period of the year was remaining. In this short period, I became worried that I placed this expectation upon the Jamaat that they should, at a minimum, convert 100,000 people in a year. How would this occur in such a short period? At that moment, Allah the Almighty intuitively inspired my heart and its entire outline came before me; all the Jamaats of the world should not only be told to be prepared to participate in the International Bai‘at ceremony, but a target should also be assigned, for instance, so-and-so Jamaat would have this much of a target. I had to set a huge target. I was concerned of how such a large target, which was seemingly completely unrealistic, would be fulfilled in some of those areas where yet a hundred people had not even accepted Ahmadiyyat in the past ten years, and their target was set to 5,000.

However, Allah the Almighty strengthened my heart and assured me as if to say: I have begun this scheme and I am responsible for it. Have patience and wait.

“During this period, an account occurred as follows: An extract of the Promised Messiahas came before me in which he had stated, ‘To date, 400,000 people have taken the pledge of initiation at the hands of this humble one.’ A few days before this, Khadija Nazir Sahiba, who is in possession of the International Bai‘at record, mentioned that subsequent to my migration, since she began accumulating the records, 250,000 people have accepted Ahmadiyyat to this date.

She said, ‘I congratulate you upon this quarter million.’ Upon this, I replied, ‘If 150,000 more join, we would have the honour of resemblance with the Promised Messiahas Continued on page 13

13

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Reflections From Three Decades Ago First Jalsa Salana in Islamabad

A brief report regarding the first Jalsa Salana after the migration of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh to the UK that took place in the April of 1985. The english translation of the report from An-Nasr magazine published on 19th April 1985 is presented below.

T

he 20th Jalsa Salana of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, United Kingdom concluded with great success and excellence. All praise be to God. The participation of approximately 6,000 devotees of Islam and Ahmadiyyat, from 48 countries.

By the grace of God Almighty, the 20th Jalsa Salana of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in the United Kingdom was held on 5, 6 and 7 April 1985, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, in the newly purchased centre of the Ahmadiyya Community in Europe, Islamabad, Tilford (situated in Surrey). The Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community, the leader of the faithful, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV led the Jumua prayer prior to the commencement of the Jalsa.

Afterwards, the inaugural session commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Following on, Saqib Zervi Sahib recited the sublime words of the Promised Messiahas) from Durr-e-Samin. Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV delivered the inaugural address.

Therein, he mentioned those Divine bounties which, opposed to the [wishes of the] government of Pakistan, Allah the Almighty bestowed upon the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, subsequent to the promulgation of the Ahmadiyya ordinance and Huzoor’s arrival to England.

On the second day, Huzoor delivered a speech in the ladies Jalsa marquee. This address was also relayed at the same time to the men’s Jalsa marquee. In this address, Huzoor related beautiful and faith-inspiring accounts of the wonderful sacrifices of Ahmadi ladies in relation to their lives, wealth and sentiments, all across the world.

On the third day, Huzoor’s address commenced at 3:45pm, following the Zuhr and

Asr prayer, and this continued until 8:45pm.

In the magnificent address – which lasted five hours – Huzoor responded to the primary accusation of the released White Paper by the Pakistani government against the Ahmadiyya Community that the Ahmadiyya Community did not accept Hazrat Muham-

mad Mustafasa to be Khatam-un-Nabiyyin. In response to this accusation, Huzoor presented numerous references from the Holy Quran, the Hadith of the Prophetsa and Islamic saints, proving this accusation of the White Paper to be utterly baseless and a means of deception.

Throughout the Jalsa, the thunderous slogans of Nara-e-Takbeer: Allahu-Akbar, Khatam-un-Nabiyyin: Zinda Baad and (Hazrat Mirza) Ghulam Ahmad Ki: Jay were frequently raised whereby the atmosphere of the Jalsa increased in sanctity and purity.

are taking part in this ceremony. 115 nations are taking part in it.

“104 years have passed since the establishment of Ahmadiyyat. In this manner, a new nation is accepting Ahmadiyyat every year as a result of an effort of a few months.

These are Allah Almighties favours, the account of which I have briefly presented.”

Thereafter, Huzoorrh stated: “Afterwards, I would like to mention a prophecy which is, today, being majestically fulfilled. In the Acts of Apostles, chapter two, verses one to twelve, mention is found that the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples of Jesusas and they began to speak in various languages which they had no knowledge of beforehand. People started to listen, comprehend those languages and become astonished. As far as I have looked over history, no evidence can be found that such an account occurred. The overwhelming presumption is that it is an account in a vision, and that this event was to happen, not in the era of the first Messiah but in the era of the second.

“It is the duty of the Christians to present historical evidence, but the factual testimony

which we are presenting is clearly manifesting itself before the entire world. Nobody can deny that if it was a prophecy or a vision, today it is occurring as reality before the world in great glory.”

Huzoorrh stated: “This prophecy also contains the words, ‘They were all occupied with the Holy Spirit and they started to say, what is going to happen?’ Thus, out of fear and panic, we shall clearly not say, what is going to happen?

However, the enemies, out of fear and panic, will certainly exclaim, what is going to happen. What is going to happen is that in the century we entered, it was destined since eternity that Islam would be made to spread by leaps and bounds, and this is occurring.

And its [spiritual] fruits have come before our eyes. Rather, they are in our hands and we shall taste them and have the blessings of its spiritual taste. Thus, we pray [to Allah] as we participate in this prayer and we will pray [to Allah] even after this. May Allah enlarge, spread and continue to grant the Jamaat dominance over the Islamic world. It is my desire that those people who have taken part

in this struggle should pledge with God’s grace and prayers that they will strive to achieve double [of what they had achieved] again, in the upcoming year. They should take this pledge and tell those who have taken the pledge of initiation to make spiritual progress within themselves this year, and if not more, then every one of you should at least turn into two [by introducing another person into Ahmadiyyat].” :Huzoorrh stated “Bear in mind that the moral training of those joining the Ahmadiyya Jamaat is exceptionally important. As a result of a lack of moral training, great chaos and disorder can emerge in the future, faith can be corrupted and unity can change into disorder and discord. We have pledged to achieve the goal of a united people. In other words, we have taken the pledge to cause the entire world to become a united people as the result of the dissemination of the faith of Hazrat Aqdas Muhammad Mustafasa throughout the en-

Continued on page 16

Continued from page 12

by gaining 400,000 conversions to this date simply in the years of migration.’ That being said, I had to slightly increase the target again. Then, I thought that as we are humbly praying to Allah already, why should we stop at 100,000-150,000? Let us beg for 200,000 instead. Thus, I issued a target of 150,000 and began to pray for 200,000.

“Now, the fact is that today, 204,308 people, in the entire world will join the community at the hands of this humble one. These people who exceed 200,000 are those who are entering Islam for the first time or who are entering into the fold of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat for the first time. Aside from this, there are hundreds of thousands who are Ahmadi already and who will gain the honour of renewing their pledge on this historical occasion today. Thus, take part in this Bai‘at with a righteous heart. May this result in huge international Bai‘at ceremonies in the future. May this community continue to increase and spread every year until the entire world takes refuge under the Islamic canopy of peace. Currently, the state of affairs is that new converts from 84 countries

Continued on page 14

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

14 Continued from page 10

not had access to. Hence, even uneducated Ahmadis appear scholarly and learned in the company of others. There are certain subjects which we discuss easily among ourselves at our gatherings, but when we raise them with other people, there is always a concern that they will not be able to understand them. These include the intricacies of the sharia, the truths of the Holy Quran, philosophy, logic, psychology and so on.

Even land owners within the community listen to these discourses with so much enthusiasm that it appears as though they are consuming a sweet syrup. Where did they learn psychology and philosophy from?

It was certainly not from their own efforts or from any educational institute. Instead, their connection to the Promised Messiahas caused a [spiritual] fountain to flow in their hearts; and this is the same fountain which always flows from Divine movements.

Hence, the day of Jalsa is a sign. People from all spheres of life attend this event.

They listen to all sorts of discussions and revel in them. At times, there are people who leave during the middle of a session.

[Later] when it is enquired about them, those members of our community who are not that well-educated, in their innocence and candour, tell us that [the people who left early] were non-Ahmadi friends of theirs who had accompanied them [to the Jalsa] and left because they failed to comprehend the [complexity of] the issues being discussed. Whereas in truth, these non-Ah-

Continued from page 13

tire world. Thus, in order to fulfil this pledge, mere verbal preaching is not enough. Drawing people towards oneself through righteous actions is not enough. Rather, transforming verbal preaching into advice which contributes to moral training and employing righteous deeds for sincere moral training constitutes an essential part, which should

madis are far more educated than the Ahmadis who they come with. Yet, the members of our community do not for a moment see themselves as being less educated than their friends and, therefore, when they anxiously leave early, they say it is because they did not understand the addresses that were being delivered. Therefore, they assume that because their friends do not understand the speeches, they tend to leave early. Although this is said with the greatest of innocence, it is completely true. In truth, these non-Ahmadis leave exactly because they have failed to understand what is being said. And even though they excel our members in terms of their formal education, it is Ahmadis who end up feeling sorry for them. And this is nothing new, rather it has been happening since the remotest ages. Whenever a prophet appears, those who deny him fail to comprehend his spiritual message as do the hypocrites from among his followers. The Holy Quran says that those who are not [true] believers and only portray themselves to be Muslims cannot fathom the intricacies [of the Quran]. When the leaders of the hypocrites would leave the presence of the Holy Prophetsa they would derogatorily say:

ً ٰ َ َ َ ‫َماذا قال انِفا‬

That is: ‘We cannot understand a thing he is saying.’ (Surah Muhammad, 47:17) Before embracing Islam, Abu Hurairahra had a weak memory and would struggle to remember anything. However, [after he became Muslim], he treated every word of the Holy Prophetsa like a precious pearl and

immediately begin after the International Bai‘at ceremony, without a moments delay.”

Furthermore, issuing detailed guidance regarding this matter, Huzoorrh stated: “The most important, effective, and purest course of action which endows pious and eternal fruits is prayer. Supplicate [before God] with prayers and humility. Whatever He has granted is purely His grace. Our efforts are also only the result of the grace of God. This course of action which occurred

preserved it in his heart. On the contrary, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salul, who was set to become the chief of Medina [before the arrival of the Holy Prophetsa] would remove himself from the company of the Holy Prophetsa on the basis that he could not understand anything he was saying.

On the surface, he was a learned man and Abu Hurairahra was illiterate. However, the insights given to the latter were not bestowed on the former. Accordingly, Abu Hurairahra would understand [the sayings of the Holy Prophetsa] while Abdullah bin Ubayy would not.

Another sign that is witnessed during the days of the Jalsa is the large number of people who come here; and this is something that could never have been anticipated. We then witness a further sign when those who are considered to be lacking in knowledge, ardently drink from this [spiritual] fountain in such a manner that even those people from other communities who wish to quench their thirst are unable to benefit from it in a similar way.

God Almighty has made the people of Qadian a means of its protection and it is to bless this town that He brings people together. Hence I instruct those of the members of the community who live here to prepare for the coming days and those who have their own homes should give them over for our guests. Moreover, they should volunteer themselves and sacrifice their time for this event.

in the mind was also Divinely inspired from God. What capabilities do we possess? What a pious and pure subtle point the Promised Messiahas mentioned when he ‫ ت‬said: ‫بس ھچک ی�ری اطع ےہ رھگ ےس وت ھچک ہن الےئ‬ “‘All is your bounty; I have not brought anything from my own home [nothing has been done as a result of my own abilities.]’

This prayer is also His bounty. May God enable all bounties to be bestowed upon us, which descend from heaven through this prayer. May Allah increase our abilities and our resolve. May he endow us with steadfastness and fidelity. May he grant us light i.e. the light of righteousness under which no man can fall astray, whether he be ignorant or a scholar. In both situations, if he is righteous, he will always tread the path of guidance.

Hence, may Allah grant us the ability to be righteous and make us a leader of the righteous. In other words, may all of those people who are entering Islam through us become righteous so that we may became the leader of the righteous. Being devoid of righteousness, increasing manpower is a futile and satanic pursuit. It has no significance. This results in an increase in discord and division rather than unity. Thus, it is our duty to make others righteous and increase the party of the righteous. Hence, pray that Allah grants us the opportunity. Fill this world and this pledge of initiation with righteousness so that the forthcoming generations, along with Hazrat Muhammadsa and the Promised Messiahas also send down salutations on us that we advanced His holy mission and translated dreams into reality.”

Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh said: “I shall now sit for the International Bai‘at. Delegates from five continents are sat before me. I shall place a hand upon their hands and take the pledge of initiation. People assume that [the whole affair is merely] a hand placed on another’s hand. The Holy Quran does not mention this. It states, ‘O Messenger, when you were taking the pledge of allegiance, it was not your hand which was upon their hands. Rather: ‫ید اللہ فوق ایدیھم‬ Because you have completely become“ God’s, it was God’s hand which was upon theirs. The wisdom of Bai‘at has also been mentioned in it, which I would like to pres.ent to you “In the Bai‘at, the one leading the pledge of initiation places his hand at the top and Huzoorsa stated that hand of the one who blesses others is at the top. The hand of the one who is receiving blessings is at the bottom. He mentioned that whoever bestows has the upper hand. This is the underlying wisdom as a result of which the Holy Prophetsa used to place his hand upon other hands during Bai‘at. At that point in time, blessings used to flow from him. I, who will be the means whereby blessings shall flow, [would like to say that] these are not my blessings, but the blessings of Muhammad, the Messenger of Allahsa. I am becoming the channel through which this spiritual water will reach you. For this reason, I do not claim that my hand is the upper hand due to my superiority above you in terms of blessings. I am a humble and simple person, but God stated regarding the hand of the person which I am representing, ‫ید اللہ فوق ایدیھم‬ This is the hand of Allah which is upon theirs. Therefore, the Bai‘at of Muhammadsa is conducted through humble servants. Join into the pledge of initiation, with this perspective [in mind]. What is this Bai‘at in reality? In answer to this question, I would like to present this verse of the Holy Quran َ َّ َ ُ ُ َ َّ َ ُ َ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ َ ّ َّ ٰ َ ‫اللَ َه اشت‬ ُ ‫رى ِم َن‬ ۚ ‫الجنة‬ ‫المؤ ِمنين أنفسهم وأموالهم ِبأن لهم‬ ‫ِإن‬ ًّ َ َ َ ً َ َ َ ُ َ َ ُ َ َ َّ َّ ُ َ َ ‫بيل الل ِه فيقتلون ويقتلون ۖ وعدا علي ِه حقا فِي التورا ِة‬ ِ ‫يقاتِلون في س‬ َ َّ ُ ُ ّ َ َ ‫اللَ ِه َف‬ َ ٰ ‫رآن ۚ َو َمن أ‬ ‫استب ِشروا ِب َبيعِك ُم الذي‬ ‫هد ِه ِمن‬ ِ ‫وفى بِ َع‬ ِ ‫نجيل َوالق‬ ِ ‫و‬ ِ ‫الإ‬ ُ ٰ َ َُ َ َ ُ َ‫باي‬ َ ‫الفوز‬ ُ ‫الع‬ ‫ظيم‬ ‫عتم ِب ِه ۚ وذل ِك هو‬ [Surah Al-Tauba: V.112] “The meaning of Bai‘at is that God has purchased from the believers their lives and property. He has bought them. Then, after purchasing them, he promised to them that He would surely grant them paradise. Of course, we have given very little. Temporary lives and worldly wealth are only beneficial in this transitory world and hold no value. The bestowal of eternal gardens has been promised in exchange.

Thus, the meaning of Bai‘at is to sell yourself to somebody else. Moreover, as people are sold to Allah, ‘Yadullahi fauqa aidihim’ is not sold in the hands of men. It is Allah who purchases, not men. However, people do represent Him. Perhaps, in the sight of men, it is a reason of pride for this humble one to be granted [the chance to] represent Allah’s servants; the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas. However, as far as my personal feelings are concerned, this is a cause of utter humility and meekness. Yet I am compelled for God has appointed me to this post. May Allah overlook my omissions and cover up my weaknesses. May He remove them so that you all also receive the same treatment

15

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM alongside me. May Allah also bestow His forgiveness upon you. May He conceal your weaknesses as well and bestow such coverings, underneath which weaknesses are being removed and evil is changing into goodness. If one performs Bai‘at sincerely, this is

weaknesses; that He will not allow us to die until we are included amongst the pious in the register of God. May Allah enable for such to happen. Let us now take the pledge of initiation.”

Huzoorrh further stated: “The coat which

'We have pledged to achieve the goal of a united people. In other words, we have taken the pledge to cause the entire world to become a united people as the result of the dissemination of the faith of Hazrat Aqdas Muhammad Mustafa (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), throughout the entire world. Thus, in order to fulfil this pledge, simply verbally preaching is not enough.'

- Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh the state of affairs which is certainly initiated after the pledge. This is the state of affairs, the promise of which the Quran has presented in clear words before us: َّ َ َ َ ّ َ َ ُ َّ ‫َر ّبنا ِإننا َس ِمعنا ُمنا ِد ًيا يُنادي ل‬ ‫آمنا ۚ َر ّبنا‬ ‫ِلإيمان أن آ ِمنوا ِبر ِبكم ف‬ ِ َ َ َ َّ َ ُ َ ّ َّ ِ ‫فاغ ِفر لَنا ذنوبَنا َوك ِفر َعنا َس ِّيئاتِنا َوتوَفنا َمع الأبرار‬ [Surah Aal-e-Imran: V.194] “I remind you of this pledge. When God’s servants join the true religion, they hear the voice of a caller. What do they state before their Lord?

‘O our Lord, we have heard the cry of a caller. He used to say, “I call you to your Lord”.

We have believed in what he has to say and heard him and accepted his word. As a result of this, we also have a right [to say] to You, O Beloved Lord, we are entering into Islam, burdened with many sins. Now, what has passed is past. Treat us with utter forgiveness concerning whatever faults we have previously committed. We are entering into Your religion with a clean slate, but despite Your forgiveness, our weaknesses will hold fast to us for a period of time, which we do not have the power to remove. Faghfirlana [forgive us]. By removing our weaknesses, only You can enable us to fully benefit from faith.

Only you can fully deliver the benefits. Wa tawaffana ma‘al-abrar. And let this process of our reformation continue until our death, and O God, death is in Your power. Therefore, O God, let us not die until and unless we are included amongst the righteous.’ This is the supplication for the occasion of Bai‘at regarding which the Quran has taught that these were the cries of the hearts of those people who used to accept the Holy Prophetsa. These were their desires that would turn into supplications, whether in verbal form or otherwise.

“Thus, take part in this prayer with this supplication [in mind]. Take part in this prayer with this desire; we are sinners and we hope that God will forgive whatever has happened before. We beseech You and we know that such a transformation does not occur abruptly in a single day, where the impure become pure. Purity is also granted as a grace of God. It is our expectation from Allah that He will assist us in removing our

I have worn today is the coat of the Promised Messiahas. It has been a few days since the revelations of the Promised Messiahas came in front of my eyes, which contain mention of this age. It contained the words: ‘Take a look at what your photo says.’ Then, the Promised Messiahas states, ‘The coat which I had worn in the vision was of a green colour.

Prior to this, I had never given thought to the fact that it was green-coloured. Now that I have taken a look, I have found it to truly be of a green colour. Although the colour has somewhat worn away through the passage of time, it is still truly green-coloured.’ Thus, precisely according to the vision, today, I, who am not the Promised Messiahas but rather the humble servant and representative of the Promised Messiahas, am taking the pledge of initiation from you, in the capacity of the representative of the Promised Messiahas, who was made to be the Imam of this age, representing the Holy Prophetsa. Today I shall take that pledge of initiation from you.”

Huzoorrh recited the words of the pledge of initiation in Urdu, and all Urdu speakers, following him, repeated these words aloud in Urdu. Afterwards, apart from Urdu, the words for the pledge of initiation were repeated in 25 different languages of the world.

Representatives of all these languages were also present in the Jalsa Marquee. Of all these languages, the translations of 7 languages – Arabic, French, Spanish, German, English, Russian and Bengali –were being broadcast throughout the entire world by satellite, whereas the intermingled and blessed voices of the translations in other languages were being echoed in the Jalsa Marquee.

And these words were also being repeated simultaneously throughout the entire globe.

Whilst reciting the words of the pledge of allegiance, Huzoorrh was choked with emotion in the praise of Allah the Almighty to the extent that reading out the words was proving difficult. Similarly, heart rending scenes of collective prayers were also observed throughout the entire world.

In the era of the fourth Khilafat, ten ceremonies of the International Bai‘at took place at the occasion of the Jalsa Salana United Kingdom.

Continued from page 9

heavenly Jalsa: 1. May God Almighty be with them 2. May He reward them 3. May He have mercy on them 4. May He make easy for them their difficulties and lessen their burdens 5. May He remove their worries from them 6. May He grant them escape from every kind of pain 7. May He open up for them paths for [the fulfilment of] their wishes 8. May He, on the Day of Judgement, raise them up amongst such servants whom He blesses and shows mercy 9. May He be their Khalifa in their absence, until their journeys come to an end “O Lord! O Glorious One; the One who gives; the Merciful; Remover of difficulties; accept all these prayers. Amin.” (Al Hakam, 14 March 1919) A glance at the early Jalsas during the Second Khilafat The Al Hakam editions subsequent to Jalsa Salana 1918 contained reports and reflections upon the proceedings of the Jalsa. One article in particular narrated the progress that the community was rapidly making especially in relation to how arrangements were being improved at Jalsa.

“The advent of the Second Khilafat emerged at a time of trial and tribulation. The greater the hurdles and difficulties lie in one’s path, the greater the glory and grandeur of his success.

“The soul trembles, even thinking of the discord which arose in the Jamaat immediately after the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. But God Almighty has decreed for the true rightly guided Khilafat to flourish in trials and tribulations, so that its establishment and the change of fear to peace becomes plainly manifest, and so that it is made clear that it is solely God Who appoints the Khalifa.

“The first annual Jalsa [during the Second Khilafat] was held in December 1914, at the same time as the trial which initially began on 13 March 1914. And thus, it was the first Jalsa to be held nine months following the outset of this trial whereas, another Jalsa alongside it, was held in Lahore and every possible endeavour was made to gather people in it.

“Then, in 1914, members of the community had to constantly visit Qadian.

Most people continued to visit Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira during his illness in the beginning of 1914, but a large number of people gathered upon his demise in March 1914. Afterwards, in April 1914, when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra delivered an instrumental address titled Mansab-eKhilafat [the status of Khilafat] and on the organisation of the Jamaat, a large crowd of the community gathered. Then, on the third occasion, people had to come for the Annual Jalsa. However, God Almighty demonstrated whom He was with, through His hand of support. Thus, clear proof of this revelation from God Almighty became apparent, which was a manifestation of succour at the time of this split: ‘God is with one party from among the two’…

“The [First] World War had begun prior to the first annual Jalsa, and this was a means of the fulfilment of the prophecy of worldwide destruction. Along with the severe opposition from those who had separated themselves from the Jamaat, we had to face the ongoing famine, inflation, financial crisis and atmospheric pollution which was caused by the war. Yet despite this, the number of those gathering in the sacred land [of Qadian] continued to rise. And each Jalsa continued to grow greater than the previous year in glory and strength…”

“A unique characteristic of this Jalsa was that a large number of women participated for which special arrangements had to be made for their convention on this occasion.

The ladies’ Jalsa Gah would usually be accommodated at the house of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad. However, on this occasion, that space proved to be insufficient, and the Jalsa was held in Masjid Aqsa in which, apart from the addresses of respected Maulvi Ghulam Rasul Rajeki Sahib, respected Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib, respected Maulvi Ghulam Rasul Wazirabadi Sahib and Maulvi Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib, an address of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, may Allah the Almighty strengthen his hand, also took place. The ladies presented a sizeable donation for the affairs of the community.

“It is essential for ladies to participate in this Jalsa for a child’s primary learning takes place in the company of the mother. If we can acquaint the ladies of the Jamaat with the purpose and grandeur of this Jamaat, then this is a huge achievement and our future generations will be deeply influenced…

“There was a time when, in the early days of the claim of the Promised Messiahas, very few people would visit Qadian. During those days in fact, even prior to this, the Promised Messiahas was given the glad tidings of frequent visitors and was commanded not to become tired from meeting these people.

And the following revelation [in Arabic] to the Promised Messiahas foretold that people would come to visit: ‘Do not turn your face away from Allah’s creatures and do not tire from [meeting] people.’ The magnificence of this prophecy increases day by day. And now people are visiting in such numbers that the need has arisen to place the system of Mulaqats under special arrangements. Hence, the system of Mulaqats has been placed under the Department of Correspondence.”

(Al Hakam, 21_28 March 1919) A Masterly Discourse: Irfan-e-Ilahi On the second day of this Jalsa, 17 March 1919, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra delivered a lecture, which would later be published as a book titled “Irfan-e-Ilahi”. The significance of this address was described by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh in the following words: “The subject matter was very difficult, and amongst the audience were illiterate farmers all the way to highly educated individuals. Moreover, not only Ahmadis, but non-Ahmadis in large numbers, after hearing about the academic prowess of this young Khalifa and after being moved by the mention of the extraordinary spiritual atmosphere of the headquarters of the Jamaat, were in attendance.” (Swaneh Fazl-e-Umar, Vol. 2, pp. 235-236) The Hindu newspaper, Parkash, published the following regarding this Jalsa: “A cause of a special allure in the Jalsa were the lectures of Mirza Mahmud Ahmad Sahib. We should praise the faith and patience of our Ahmadi friends that the lectures of Mirza Sahib continued for five hours and they [continued] to listen… we congratulate our Ahmadi friends on the success of their Jalsa.” (Al Hakam, 7 April 1919) Though the Jalsa of 1918 had to be postponed and arrangements had to be made in a short amount of time, by casting a glance upon history, it becomes apparent that the Jamaat continued to progress in its undertakings despite hurdles. Moreover, it was only a few months after this Jalsa had ended that arrangements for Jalsa Salana 1919 began to take shape, and thus it was proven that our progress never stops.

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

16

The Establishment of Directorships (Nazarats) The Jalsa Salana of 1918 – a hundred years ago – which got postponed to 1919 had a very significant feature ie the establishment of various departments in Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya. These departments are known by the name of Nazarat.

I

t is published for the information of all members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, that in order to fulfil the needs of the Community and after seeking advice from members in Qadian and elsewhere, I have made this arrangement that certain office bearers are appointed to undertake various duties of the Jamaat. It shall be their responsibility to fulfil their duties at the necessary times to remain effortful in fulfilling the requirements of the Community.

For the time being I have appointed a Nazir-e-Ala [Chief Director], Nazir Talif wa Isha‘at [Director of Publications], Nazir Ta‘lim wa Tarbiyyat [Director

Continued from page 13

Over 6000 delegates from more than 48 countries of the world participated in this Jalsa. In accordance with the traditions of the Jamaat, lodging and nourishment was organised for all of these delegates. Around 1000 delegates were lodged in the buildings of Islamabad. A large number was accommodated in the guesthouses and homes of Ahmadis in the precincts of the Fazl Mosque, based on the sentiment of Islamic brotherhood. Some people were also accommodated in hotels.

The twenty-five acres of Islamabad and the buildings therein were fully utilised for the arrangements of Jalsa. Therefore, two large marquees for 6000 people were installed as the men’s and ladies Jalsa marquees.

Two tents were put up as dining areas, where an extremely dignified arrangement for food was made available for the guests. Aside from this, many people lodged in the forty provided caravans. An open field was utilised for car parking. From among the buildings, one building was brought under use for the exhibition which had literature exhibited in various languages of the world for purchase.

Newly published books of the Promised Messiahas continued to be a cause for special interest of visitors. The department of cleanliness attempted to fully act on the Hadith of the Holy Prophetsa, “Cleanliness is part of faith” in every respect and maintained cleanliness of the atmosphere of the Jalsa.

A significant characteristic of this Jalsa was that headphones were provided to relay live translations of the Urdu addresses into Arabic, Indonesian and English, both in the men’s and ladies marquees, under the translation department. Video film and audio recordings of the entire proceedings of the Jalsa were prepared.

Coaches were arranged on a vast scale for

of Education and Training], Nazir Umur-e-Ama [Director of Internal Affair] and a Nazir Baitul-Mal [Director of Finance]. And I have immediately appointed the following to these offices: Nazir-eAli – Maulvi Sher Ali Sahib; Nazir Talif wa Isha‘at – Maulvi Syed Sarwar Shah Sahib; Nazir Umure-Amma – Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib; Nazir Baitul Maal – Master Abdul Mughni Sahib…

Humbly yours Mirza Mahmud Ahmad (Al Hakam, 7 January 1919, pp. 7-8)

delegates lodged in various areas. In order to welcome foreign delegates arriving, volunteers of the Jamaat would be present in the airport meeting area around the clock, who served by transporting the guests by vans to the Fazl mosque and Islamabad. Near the main Jalsa marquee, arrangements for stalls of food and drink were also present, for the ease and comfort of guests.

By the grace of the Almighty Allah, delegations from the following countries took part in this Jalsa: Japan, Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Libya, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Congo, South Africa, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Canada, America, Trinidad, Guyana, Liberia, Australia, Mauritius, Ireland, Iran, Qatar, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Nigeria.

All of the arrangements for the Jalsa Salana were executed by the Jamaat in England and by volunteers who had come from other countries, amongst whom members who had come from Pakistan played a significant role.

After the conclusion of the Jalsa, Majlis-e-Mushawarat was held in Islamabad for two days, in the blessed presidency of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV. Vitally important decisions were made in it for the progress and strengthening of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

Delegates from 48 countries also participated in it. Afterwards, on 11 and 13 April, a Majis-e-Shura for missionaries, who had come to the London mission from numerous countries, was also held in the presidency of Huzoor. On 11 April, a press conference was also arranged at a hotel in Central London.

A Blessed Gathering An annoucement published by the Promised Messiahas in which he highlights the extraordinary nature of the Jalsa Salana.

In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful

is based upon the sincere support of the truth and the dominance of the Islamic teachings. God Almighty has laid the We praise Him and invoke blessings on foundation-stone of this Jamaat with His blessed Prophetsa His own hand and has prepared nations for this who shall join shortly, because Assalamo alaikum wa rahmatullah this act is of the Almighty before Whom nothing is impossible. The time draws Herewith, it is requested for the benefit near – in fact it is very close – when no of all sincere individuals that on 27 sign of naturalism shall remain in this December 1892, in Qadian, a Jalsa for faith nor the extremists of naturalism or the beloved and sincere friends of this deluded opponents; neither the deniers humble one shall be held. A major of miracles shall remain nor those who purpose from the objectives of this shamelessly exaggerate them, contrary Jalsa is that every sincere individual to the Quran. And God Almighty shall, be given the opportunity to directly for this best Umma, establish a moderate gain religious benefit, broaden their route; the route of the Quran; the knowledge and, with the blessings and strength from God Almighty, experience route that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, taught further enlightenment. Moreover, in his Companions, may Allah be pleased this context, another benefit is that with them all; the same guidance that through such a meeting, all brothers has been attained, from the beginning, will become better acquainted and this community’s relationship of brotherhood by the siddiq [truthful], the shaheed [martyrs] and the sulaha [saints]. This will be strengthened. Apart from this, shall happen! It most certainly shall! in this Jalsa, another importance lies in Those whose ears can hear should listen! the presenting of such plans in religious Blessed are those upon whom the right sympathy for the people of Europe and path is manifested.

America as it is now a proven matter that In the end, I conclude on the prayer the good-natured people of Europe and that may God Almighty be with every America are becoming prepared to accept individual who undertakes a journey for Islam but are shaken and aggrieved by this Divine Jalsa, and grant them a great the sectarian divisions of Islam. Hence, reward, and have mercy on them, and only a few days ago, I received a letter make their difficulties and conditions of from an Englishman who addressed me and wrote that I am merciful to all living anxiety easy, and remove their sorrows and griefs, and grant them salvation from beings and that they too are human and all troubles, and open for them paths of worthy of mercy as they have accepted [the fulfilment of] their wishes, and raise the religion of Islam but are unaware them, on the day of judgement, amongst of its true and correct teachings. So His servants who have His blessings brethren! Rest assured, with certainty, and mercy, and be their Khalifa in their that this community shall be prepared absence, until the end of this journey. for us as God Almighty never leaves a O Lord! O Glorious One, Alltruthful person without a community. If providing, Merciful and Remover of the Omnipotent God wills, the blessing difficulties: accept all these prayers and of truth shall draw all of them towards grant us supremacy over our opponents this [path]. This is what God Almighty through manifest signs, for You possess has wished for in heaven and there in every power and strength. Amin, Amin! none to alter this.

Peace be upon they who follow the So it is incumbent for those true guidance. individuals who possess the means to travel to attend this Jalsa, which comprises of many blessed objectives, and that such individuals bring with Khaksar [Humbly yours] them their necessities, winter-bedding etc. according to their needs and care not Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian (peace be for minor struggles in the way of Allah upon him) and His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. God Almighty District of Gurdaspur rewards the sincere upon every step and no effort or inconvenience for his sake is 7 December 1892 wasted.

I express this again: Do not consider this Jalsa similar to ordinary, worldly fairs. This matter is such that its principle Published in Riyaz-e-Hind press

17

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

Exhibitions

Jalsa Salana UK 2018 The Review of Religions

Ahmadiyya ARC Exposition

The Human Values Exhibition

Humanity First

This year the Review of Religions will host an exhibition on ‘Islam in the East: Journeys along the Silk Road’ exploring 1400 years of cultural interaction between Islam and cultures along the Silk Road, particularly Persia and China. Rare artefacts, calligraphic masterpieces and stunning images will be displayed. Visitors will also have a chance to explore a special section dedicated to Muhammad Osman Chou Chung Sai Sahib, also known affectionately as Chini Sahib and the history of Ahmadiyyat in China.

The material which will be shown at the exposition

The Exhibition is an interactive experience where

This year the Humanity First exhibition will focus on

is extremely rare; it dates back to the time of the

guests can see, touch and feel how human values

Global Health which is one of the HF programmes.

Promised Messiahas, such as books of the Promised

affect peace. We help guests see how what the Prom-

There will be a new feature about the soon-to-be-

Messiah which he originally wrote and translated in

ised Messiah and Huzoor-e-Anwar say, works in

opened Nasir Hospital in Guatemala. This is a new

his time and sent to Queen Victoria and the British

practice.

state of the art medical facility which is something

Government. Material related to Hazrat Musleh

Supersize infographics show the real-life con-

completely new for the region. We will also be

Maudra will also be showcased. Other than this,

sequences of poverty, lack of education and the

exhibiting on the ongoing Disaster Relief work in the

other historical material such as letters written to the

harmful growth of the arms trade. And we have

Middle East, something which Huzooraa has been

Khulafa of administrative nature, newspapers and

amazing quotes and information about the Promised

referring to in recent times.

journals relating to the Ahmadiyya Jamaat will also

Messiah and Huzoor-e-Anwar .

Also this year, the unique and historic ‘Al-Qalam project’ is now nearing completion.

The Weekly Al-Hakam

During Jalsa Salana UK, The Weekly Al Hakam will also be interacting with guests.

All guests are invited to visit and share, with the Al Hakam team, their thoughts and views about the paper and the kind of articles they wish to see in upcoming issues. The main highlight is the Writers’ Corner where visitors can discuss areas on which they wish to write on.

as

as

aa

ra

aa

be displayed.

Makhzan-e-Tasawir

IAAAE

Waqfe-Nau

The Makhzan-e-Tasawir Exhibition will showcase the history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in pictures. Similar to every year, visitors will have the oppurtunity to traverse through the years and see images from various events that took place.

Visit the various phases of Jamaat's history as the lens of the camera captured it.

International Association of Ahmadi Architects and Engineers (IAAAE) have their own exhibitioin which showcases the tremendous services that the association has been able to render for humanity under the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih.

Visit to see models of model villages built across Africa to provide the underprivileged with sustainable amenities

Waqfe--Nau International marquee will be hosting an info-desk at this year's Jalsa Salana UK. Career counselling will be offered to all Waqifeen.

This will be an excellent opportunity for Waqifeen-e-Nau and their parents to voice their queiries directly to the central team.

For Waqifeen-e-Nau, this marquee will be a great chance to touch base and update contact details.

The Al Hakam Jalsa Special issue is available in print at the Al Hakam Writers’ Corner marquee.

Importance of Listening to Jalsa Speeches In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful. Dr Mir Muhammad Ismail Sahib related to me that once, when Hazrat [Mirza Ghulam Ahmad] Sahibas had returned home after delivering a speech at the Jalsa Salana, he enquired from Miyan Sahib (Khalifatul Masih II) – who would have been 10-12 years of age at the time, “Miyan, do you recall what I spoke about today?” Miyan Sahib repeated the speech according to his own comprehension and memory. Hazrat Sahibas was delighted and remarked, “Very well remembered”.

A

THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

18 Continued from page 11

care of the comfort and facilities of those guests staying in private accommodation during Jalsa Salana. He would also ensure that such households were not inconvenienced by the guests of the Promised Messiahas.

Hence, I recall that for the breakfast of guests staying at households, he would provide sugar, tea and wooden coal along with rice for those that preferred rice. Once he visited my house in relation to an official matter and saw that guests were having tea in our living room. When I came out, he smiled and asked, ‘What is happening inside? The noise of the teacups can be heard from the road outside.’ I replied by saying that the guests were having tea. He then asked, ‘How much sugar is used during these days?’ I said that five kilograms were used. He then discussed some official matters and left. At night, he sent five kilograms of sugar and this continued for the duration of his life.”

Regarding his passion towards serving the guests of the Promised Messiahas and his determination to spend his full energy – and he followed the footsteps of his esteemed father in this matter – Shiekh Muhammad Ahmad Sahib Mazhar narrates: “Customarily, our Jalsa would take place on 26 , 27 and 28 December, when winter would be at its height. In 1965, the Jalsa was to take place during Ramadan.

Therefore, during the Shura of 1965, a point of discussion was whether to change the dates of Jalsa due to Ramadan or to adhere to the former practice. During the Shura, arguments were presented both for and against. One argument presented was that to provide sehri [pre-fast meal] during the winter nights for approximately 80,000 to 100,000 people was impossible. Upon this, Mir Sahib stood up, and in a simple, yet firm manner, said, ‘Do not worry about food for sehri and iftari [meal to break the fast] not reaching the guests. It is my responsibility that food reaches every individual on time’.

His exact words were: ‘If you say so, then even during Ramadan we will – Insha-Allah – arrange for this. It is not difficult to exert one’s best effort.’”

What is worthy of noting is that through his determination, steadfastness and organisational prowess, in the bitter cold at 3am, taking responsibility of providing food for 100,000 people, Mir Sahib displayed a unique resolve and also demonstrated the fact that he had created such an element of determination among his colleagues that they were engulfed in the principle of “We hear and we obey”, and by presenting every kind of sacrifice, they were able to fulfil their obligations in all difficult circumstances.

Such high resolve on the part of Mir Sahib is worthy of consideration in many aspects.

Another such example is well known in our community. At the 1927 Jalsa Salana, the space allotted by the organisers for the gathering was somewhat small for the attendees. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra stated during the Jalsa that the fault lay with the organisers and that he would investigate this matter. Huzoorra said that the organisers should have taken into account that the number of attendees at Jalsa always increases from the previous year. After saying this, Huzoor left. However, what followed is truly inspiring.

Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaq Sahibra, who was the chief organiser of Jalsa Salana, gathered the volunteers working at Jalsa,

and during the night in the cold weather of December, demolished the Jalsa Gah and rebuilt it anew whilst expanding it. This happened during the night whilst the guests were asleep. When they awoke during the night, they found the landscape of Jalsa completely altered, as if the lamp of Aladdin had been used to rebuild the Jalsa Gah. (Al Fazl, 3 January 1928) When Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra came to the Jalsa Gah on the second day and found the Jalsa Gah to be spacious, he remarked, “How can I look into the matter now?”

Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib was the son of the very same devotee who has been mentioned

result of knowledge of his responsibilities, enthusiasm and interest was that he became fully acquainted with the Jalsa Salana arrangements and proved to be an extremely successful organiser.”

Munir Ahmad Chattha Sahib, missionary of Nigeria writes: “Former Spain missionary, Iqbal Ahmad Najm Sahib related to me that once, his duty was in Langar 3. Mir Sahib issued his the order that all the arrangements for the Langhar Khana should be readied by evening of 23 December. Najm Sahib mentioned that the hand-pump machine of the Langar was so spoiled that it had not been fixed up until

suitable method back at home.

Chaudhry Hameedullah Sahib, who used to be a close deputy and assistant to Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib and is now Afsar Jalsa Salana, states: “The tale of the bread-cooking machines is quite lengthy. Following a deep and lengthy review and prolonged trialling, the present form of machines came into being. The design of these machines was not prepared in imitation to any foreign machines. Rather, the design was the result of the reflection, trialling and continuous efforts of Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib. For this purpose, he would have to reside in Karachi

''Hazrat Mulseh Maudra used to say, 'There are some people who are martyrs of the field and there are some who are martyrs of work.' Hazrat Musleh Maudra was himself included in this category and Allah the Almighty also granted this servant of his, respected Mir Sahib, the honour of entering this group of excellence.'' above, and the same determination, resolve, steadfastness, courage and loyalty of colleagues was a part of him, due to which Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib demonstrated such determination during the Shura.

Maulvi Muhammad Ahmad Sahib Jalil writes, regarding the excellent management of Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib at the Jalsa Salana and on other occasions: “Mir Daud Ahmad Sahib was an exceptionally capable organiser. He remained Sadr Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Afsar Jalsa Salana for many years. He discharged both of his duties with excellence and success. It is an extremely difficult task for the Afsar Jalsa Salana to continually keep preparing two meals for thousands of people for days on end, to oversee its distribution, organising the lodgings of thousands of guests, to fulfil all the requisites of hospitality for thousands of guests from within and outside the Jamaat during the bustling days of the Jalsa and to satisfy people of varying natures and temperaments by redressing their complaints. Mir Sahib exquisitely carried out these tasks for a long period of time which is proof of his outstanding management capabilities. He inherited organisational abilities from his parents.

Besides this, Mir Sahib possessed another great quality which acted as a crowning stroke and the adornment of his immense capabilities. He did not merely carry out his assigned responsibilities as an obligation.

On the contrary, his duty would become his hobby. For this reason, he would neither tire from his duty, nor become weary. I have personally observed that in the days when Mir Sahib was not yet Afsar Jalsa Salana, it would be his practise to circle and inspect the Langar Khana [kitchen] at nightfall, after he was free from his duties. He would exchange views with the organisers as regards the work and give counsel regarding the latest difficulties. I have seen that he would depart a Langar and enter a second and then a third for this purpose. He would travel back home when a hefty part of the night had passed.

Similarly, he would directly gain knowledge of the details of work in Jalsa Salana. The

midnight. ‘At that moment in time,’ Najm Sahib says, ‘there was also no arrangements for light and it was difficult for it to be fixed in the dark. After midnight, I informed him of the condition of the spoilt machine over the telephone having only just arrived home from his Jalsa Salana duties. As soon as he heard of the issue, he hung up the phone. I thought that due to his extreme fatigue, he must have fallen asleep. I thought to myself, What can I do? We shall just have to arrange for the machine to be fixed in the morning.

I came into the office and sat down. After a short while, I stepped outside and to my astonishment, I saw Mir Sahib stood next to the machine with a torch in hand and arranging for the machine to be fixed. As long as repar work was beign carried out, he stood nearby with the light. When the machine was fixed, only then did he go home.’”

Originality in management When work for Jalsa Salana was executed with Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib in-charge, the number of guests had increased to such an extent that arrangements for their food, drink and lodging demanded a new method.

In the era of Mir Sahib, focus was drawn toward the use of natural gas [commonly known as “sui gas” in the Indian subcontinent] and electricity instead of wood and coal as fuel. From then on, upon observing the heating tandoors [clay-ovens] and ovens by means of gas and the prepared food through electric machines, hearts would spontaneously become replete with feelings of praise and gratitude to Allah the Almighty of how many facilities He had provided His servants. Behind these comfortable means, the continuous prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and his servants, their constant efforts and great struggles were working at hand. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, through these, many problems and challenging stages were overcome.

In relation to the installation of “sui gas” machines, Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib once travelled to Afghanistan to observe with his own eyes the machines there which cook bread, and [with that experience] adopt a

for many days. During this period, he did not only strive on a personal level but raised the resolve and morale of those who worked with him as well. Despite the fact that in the initial stages, the trials clearly proved to be unsuccessful, he never lost resolve himself, nor did he allow others to lose resilience.

Finally, his constant striving proved successful by the grace of God, by which the cooking of food, especially the bread, was made considerably easier. All praise be to Allah.”

In his era, Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib made a few more significant changes in order to improve the Jalsa Salana management. For example, the supply department had the responsibility of providing goods, solid apparatus, buckets etc. and floral decoration.

By dividing this burden, he created a separate department for apparatus and floral decoration. The supply department only had the task of the provision of remaining goods. The task of supplying contracts to the people who cooked the bread and other workers and labourers was transferred from the supply department to a new department named the Department of Labour.

He established a new department by the name of the Department of Review. It was determined to be their obligation to review the accounts of the items in the Jalsa Salana store, throughout the Jalsa. Similarly, from 1968, an independent department for “sui gas” was established. Like the supply department, the accommodation department was also given new shape, bearing in mind its vast responsibilities. He established a new department by the name of Information and Immediate Assistance for Lost Property. Prior to this, there was no permanent arrangement to provide immediate assistance. A parali [paddy stems] department was established whose responsibility was assigned to always ensure the procuring and distribution of parali. In this manner, a new Langar, i.e. the dietary Langar was established in his era in which the preparation of food for unwell guests was separately managed.

The method of issuing slips also

19

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM underwent a change in his era of management. In the beginning, the slips of food for guests lodging in private houses would be obtained from their respective areas. He initiated the method where the seconding of the issuing of slips should be from their areas, but the issuing of food slips should be carried out by the respective Langar Khana.

Prior to the time of Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib, all of the Jalsa Salana departments were not collectively in a single area. In his time, apart from the departments of Langar for hospitality, meat, first aid and reception, he gathered all the offices of other departments together. This was so that the guests could go to a designated area rather than having to go to various areas to fulfil their needs. In this manner, all offices were in close proximity to communicate with the Afsar Jalsa Salana. Although most of the offices of the Jalsa Salana would be erected with tents, it was his will for permanent rooms to be constructed for all the offices.

Strict supervision In relation to his engagements at the Jalsa Salana, Chaudhry Hameedullah Sahib states: “On the occasion of the 1968 Jalsa Salana, when cooking food by ‘sui gas’ was being suggested, he would remain in the Langar Khana for the better part of the night for around two months prior to the Jalsa Salana.

I remember that on many occasions, if he went home at 2am, he would be present in the Langar Khana straight after the Fajr prayer.

His regular presence and conscientiousness also used to be displayed during Jalsas later on. However, in 1968, this engagement and wakefulness consistently occurred for many months. In reality, in relation to work, he would personally supervise whether what an organiser requested was practical or not? In order to gain reassurance, he would personally go and make an observation for himself on the occasion.”

In the affair of hospitality, Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib possessed a very sensitive nature. Mirza Abdul Haq Sahib Advocate of Sargodha writes: “Allah the Almighty had granted him special capabilities in organisational matters. The management of Jalsa Salana demanded great effort, time and focus, and consisted of numerous aspects. He would fulfil them in an excellent manner. He was sensitive to such an extent that if the slightest complaint was made in any aspect, he would become incredibly restless. During the previous Jalsa Salana, which proved to be the final Jalsa under the management of Mir Sahib, he was cycling one night, but when he saw me, he halted. I said, ‘MashaAllah, the organisation is running very well.’

He responded, ‘Somewhere a complaint has been made concerning the bread.’ As soon as he had said this, he embraced me, tears began falling from his eyes and he was choked with emotion. He said, ‘May Allah forgive me. Our friends have been inconvenienced.’ He then left as he wiped tears away from his eyes.”

Another close colleague and deputy of his during Jalsa Salana, Professor Basharatur-Rahman Sahib MA writes: “This humble one had the opportunity to work with the revered Mir Sahib (Allah bestow forgiveness and mercy on him) firstly in Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and afterwards, in connection with Jalsa Salana

duties. In those very days, I was influenced by various aspects of the revered Mir Sahib’s character. For many years, he was serving in the capacity of Afsar Jalsa Salana. I, too, had the opportunity of working as his companion and deputy. He would present himself to his colleagues with great love and affection, would encourage them in every manner and overlook their mistakes.

During the days of Jalsa, we would, on occasions, work with him in the office of Jalsa Salana till midnight. This humble one used to attempt to be present at the outset of duty for the following day after gaining necessary rest. Therefore, I would arrive in the early morning for my duty but what I would see would embarrass me because Mir Sahib would be present in the office before me.

“This humble one was entrusted with the task of supervising the bureaucratic routine.

Mir Sahib would himself work in the office as well, in the capacity of Afsar Jalsa Salana and he would also go to supervise the various departments. He would continuously work from 6am in the morning to 11pm at night.

On one night, only a year ago, he visited his home at around midnight. After he had left the office for Jalsa, I was informed that a lady had fallen seriously ill in the ladies’ residence and that her situation was critical but that there was no arrangement to take her to hospital. Upon hearing this, I immediately phoned Mir Sahib at home and apologised for causing him inconvenience.

Upon this, he responded that there was no need to apologise as what I had done was completely correct. He said that in such matters, immediate action should be taken, no matter how much somebody may be inconvenienced. Similarly, on the occasion of a Jalsa, I went to his home around 21-22 December at Maghrib time in relation to the Jalsa duty chart. At that period, he was extremely ill due to high blood pressure and confined to a bed. In this state, he issued this humble one important guidelines and bade me farewell. However, the very next day, I was surprised to see that respected Mir Sahib presented himself for his duty at the office of Jalsa Salana on 23 December.

It appeared as if he had slightly recovered from illness and he had arrived to present himself for his official duty.

“Hazrat Museh Maudra used to say, ‘There are some people who are martyrs of the field and there are some who are martyrs of work.’ Hazrat Musleh Maudra was himself included in this category and Allah the Almighty also granted this servant of his, respected Mir Sahib, the honour of entering this group of excellence. Moreover, he displayed such enthusiasm in his official duties that he also sacrificed his own health and was raised up towards his Lord at a young age.”

Aside from Jalsa Salana, Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib would also be entrusted with the responsibility of hospitality at other important functions of the Jamaat due to his excellent organisational capabilities. At the Ansarullah Ijtema, he would be entrusted with the responsibility of food and Mir Sahib would carry out this duty with cheerfulness, happiness and inner contentment.

Mirza Abdul Haq Sahib writes, “Apart from Jalsa, respected Syed Daud Ahmad Sahib would usually manage other large gatherings and feasts, and the organisation at such events would be excellent.”

Responsibilities of the People of Qadian During Jalsa Friday Sermon of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra Delivered on the 28th of February 1919

Following the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, Huzoorra stated: s of this time, under Divine wisdom, A we had to postpone the Jalsa for another subsequent date, which normal-

ly takes place in the month of December.

Now, following reflection and consultation, it has been deemed appropriate for the Jalsa to take place in the month of March because farmers are freer from work in March in comparison to April.

Due to the fact that people come to this annual gathering from all places, and by the grace of God they come in such numbers that those who are here face difficulty in management, I draw the attention of all my people [to what I am about to say].

For [the smooth] management, merely those people are not enough who have been entrusted to carry out this work throughout the year. Only the students of religious seminaries cannot suffice. Although a major part of the workload falls on both colleges, they fall on the teachers in the days of the Jalsa. That is to say, the students and teachers of both institutions shoulder the responsibility. However, there are other people apart from these who are entrusted with responsibilities.

In my opinion, besides a few shopkeepers who have to carry out their businesses to some extent in this time period and who are excused, it is imperative that all other people help the organisers as far as possible so that those who come from outside do not face any sort of difficulty. At some point, everybody has to be a guest and they can come to realise how much hardship there is on a journey. Journeys have a significant effect on health because one must endure hardships to acquire those things needed for maintaining health.

On journeys, food is not within your reach so that you may eat whatever is appropriate for health, yet when alone, such food can be arranged. For instance, when a person visits another’s household, he provides various kinds of food for their sake. However, numerous categories of foods cannot be found in these gatherings. Only a single category of

food exists. On one occasion, it is lentil soup and on the other, broth.

Thus, on such occasions, the appropriate objects cannot be acquired. Neither can one fully acquire such abodes that are relaxing and comfortable, nor are there complete arrangements for charpoy’s. One is compelled to lie down on the floor. Further, the beds taken along in a journey also do not suffice.

Thus, due to these factors, a category of weakness emerges within man and he becomes fretful.

It is correct that humans can be of a forbearing nature in proportion to the strength they have. However, they will be fretful in proportion to whatever extent they are weak. Thus, a journey is very difficult for those whose health are fragile. Hence, guests also feel hardships in all these conditions, and the hosts also face difficulties in large gatherings.

Our school children are fond of serving the guests in these days and they do so with joy. However, as they lack experience, they sometimes cannot fully comprehend the requirements of the guests. For this reason, there is a need for such people who are experienced enough to be appointed as supervisors over the children. Therefore, whoever can accomplish this task should assist, for the comfort of guests, as much as they can. However, this should happen from this moment onwards so that the Afsars can assign suitable duties for such people. If [they are not informed] at the correct time, they will not be able to propose responsibilities for them because proposing a suitable task for somebody also demands great reflection. Thus, you should present your services quickly so that you may be entrusted with responsibilities of which you are capable.

The Holy Prophetsa states that honouring a guest is a part of faith. Thus, people should increase their faith by providing objects of ease and comfort to their guests as far as possible. May God Almighty grant you the ability to do so.

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

20

Friday Sermon

p. 416, Mulail bin Wabra, Da-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) He was known as Khalid Bin Ajlaan.

According to one tradition, he accompanied the Holy Prophetsa in the battles of Badr, Uhud and all the other battles. (Al-Kamaal Fi Rafa Al-Artiyab An Al-Maotlif, Vol. 7, p.

222, taken from Maktabah Al-Shaamila) Another companion was Hazrat Naufil bin Abdullah bin Nazla. He was martyred during the Battle of Uhud. Some have written his name as Naufil bin Salba bin Abdullah bin Nazla bin Malik bin Ajlaan. He took part in the battles of Badr and Uhud.

His lineage did not continue either. (Usdul

of brotherhood between Hazrat Yazeed bin Munzir and Amir bin Rabee‘a. He participated in the battles of Badr and Uhud. He had no children at the time of his death. His brother, Maqir bin Munzir, also participated in the Bai‘at taken at ‘Uqba as well as the battles of Badr and Uhud. (AtTabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 473, Yazeed bin Munzir, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 5, p.

473, Yazeed bin Munzir, Dar-ul-Kutub-ulIlmiyyah, Beirut) Then, there is a Companion by the name Hazrat Khawarja bin Humayyar Ashja‘i. There are many differing opinions with regards to his name. Ibn Ishaq has mentioned his name as Khawarja bin Humayyar, Musa bin ‘Uqba has mentioned his name as Haritha bin Humayyar, Waqidi has mentioned his name as Hamza bin Humayyar. There is also a difference of opinion with relation to the name of his father. Some have stated his name as Humayyar, whereas others have written it as Jumaira and Jumair. Nevertheless, everyone agrees on the fact that he belonged to the tribe of Ashja‘, which was an ally of the tribe of Banu Khazraj. His brother’s name is ‘Abdullah bin Humayyar, who participated alongside him in the Battle of Badr. (AlAsaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 1, p. 704, Haritha bin Humayyar, Da-ul-Kutub Al-

Ghaaba, Vol. 5, pp. 346-347, Naufil bin Salba, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 415, Da-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) Another companion is Hazrat Wadee‘a bin Amar. Ibn Kalbi has written his name as Wadee‘a bin Amar bin Yasaar bin Auf, whereas Abu Ma‘shar calls him Rifa‘a bin Amar bin Jarraad. He belonged to the tribe Banu Juhaina which was aligned with Banu Najaar. He took part in battles of Badr and Uhud. Hazrat Rabee‘a bin Amar was his brother. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 377, Wadee’a bin Amar, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 2, p. 392, Rabee’a bin Amar, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut) Then, there is a Companion by the name Hazrat Yazeed bin Munzir bin Sarh bin Khunaas. He belonged to the tribe of Banu Khazraj and he participated in the Bai‘at [pledge of allegiance] taken at ‘Uqba. The Holy Prophetsa formed a bond

Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut), (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 1, p. 649, Haritha bin Khumayyar, Darul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) Then, we find a mention of Hazrat Suraqa bin ‘Amr. He was an Ansari [inhabitant of Medina]. His full name is Suraqa bin ‘Amr bin ‘Atiya bin Khansaa Ansari. He passed away in Jamadi-ul-Awwal [fifth month of the lunar calendar] in the eighth year of Hijra [migration to Medina] during the battle of Mautah. His full name was Suraqa bin ‘Amr bin ‘Atiya bin Hansaa Ansari. The name of his mother was ‘Utaila bint Qais.

Suraqa belonged to the renowned tribe of the Ansar, Banu Najjaar. There are differing opinions in relation to his acceptance of Islam. According to some, he accepted Islam a short while prior to the migration of the Holy Prophetsa to Medina. Whereas, according to others, he accepted Islam a short while after the Holy Prophetsa had migrated. The Holy Prophetsa formed a bond of brotherhood between Mihja Maula ‘Amr

6.7.18 Delivered from Baitul Futuh Mosque

Men of Excellence After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah Al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaba stated: Recently I have been describing some of the Companions of the Holy Prophetsa, who took part in the Battle of Badr. Some of them are well described in history while many get only a brief reference. Nonetheless, they all occupy a great stature for having taken part in the Battle of Badr. Thus, they should be mentioned, even if only in a few lines. Many of the companions I will mention today will only be described very briefly.

First of these is Hazrat Subai bin Qais bin Eesha. His grandfather’s name has been variably written as Absa or Easha. He was from among the Ansar [inhabitants of Medina] and belonged to the tribe Khazraj.

He participated in battles of Badr and Uhud.

(Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 2, p. 407, Subai bin Qais, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, 1996, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 403, Subai bin Qaid and Abada bin Qais, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) His mother’s name was Khadija bint Amar bin Zaid. He had a son called Abdullah who died in early childhood, whose mother belonged to the tribe Banu Jadara. He had no other children. Hazrat Ibada bin Qais was his brother. He had another brother called Zaid bin Qais.

The second name is that of Hazrat Unais bin Qitada who died during the Battle of Uhud. Some historians have recorded his name as Anas. However, the correct name is Unais. Both Muhammad bin Ishaq and Muhammad bin Umar have written Unais.

He was with the Holy Prophetsa during the Battle of Badr and was martyred during the Battle of Uhud. He also did not have any children. According to one tradition, Hazrat Khansa bint Khiddam was married to him at the time of his martyrdom. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 1, pp. 305-306 Unais bin Qitada, Darul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, pp. 353-354, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) Then there is companion by the name of Hazrat Mulail bin Wabra. Different versions of his name are recorded, but Ibn Ishaq and Abu Naeem have both written his name as Mulail bin Wabra bin Abdul Karim bin Khalid bin Ajla. On the other hand, Umar and Kalbi have written it as Malail bin Wabra bin Khalid bin Ajlaan, omitting Abdul Karim. He also belonged to the tribe Khazraj, his branch was Banu Ajlaan. He took part in the battles of Badr and Uhud, both. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 5, p. 251, Mulail bin Wabra, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) He had two children, Zaid and Habiba whose mother was Umm-e-Zaid bint Nazla bin Malik. His progeny did not last beyond his children. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3,

and Suraqa bin ‘Amr. He participated in the battles of Badr, Uhud, Khandaq and Khyber.

Furthermore, he was also blessed to be in the company of the Holy Prophetsa on the occasion of the treaty of Hudaibiyah as well as ‘Umrat-ul-Qadha [the first pilgrimage to Mecca]. Hazrat Suraqa bin ‘Amr was among those fortunate Companions, who were blessed with the opportunity to partake in the Bai‘at-e-Ridhwan. He did not have any progeny, and as I mentioned earlier, he was martyred in the eighth year of Hijra during the battle of Mautah. (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, p.

580, Suraqa bin ‘Amr, Darul Jaleel, Beirut, 1992), (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 3, p. 393, Suraqa bin ‘Amr, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 393, Suraqa bin ‘Amr, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) & (Ayun Al-Asar, Vol. 1, p. 233, Zikr-ulMua’kha, Dar-ul-Qalam, Beirut, 1993) Then, there is a companion Hazrat ‘Abbad bin Qais. He also passed away in the eighth year of Hijra during the Battle of Mautah. There are some differing opinions in relation to his name as well. His name can be found as Ubbada bin Qais bin ‘Eisha.

Similarly, the name of his grandfather is also mentioned as ‘Abasa. Hazrat ‘Abbad was the paternal uncle of Hazrat Abu Dardaara.

Hazrat ‘Abbad rode together with the Holy Prophetsa during the battles of Badr, Uhud, Khandaq and Khaybar. He also participated in the treaty of Hudaibiyah and was martyred in during the Battle of Mautah. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 403, Ubbada bin Qais, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 3, p. 154, ‘Abbad bin Qais, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) Then, there is Hazrat Ab-uz-Zayyah bin Thabit bin Nu‘man. He passed away in the seventh year of Hijra. In one narration, his name has been mentioned as ‘Umair bin Thabit bin Nu‘man bin Umayyah bin Imraul-Qais. According to another narration it is Nu‘man bin Thabit bin Imra-ul-Qais.

He was known by his title, Ab-uz-Zayyah.

He took part in the battles of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq as well as in the treaty of Hudaibiyah. He was martyred in the seventh year of Hijra during the battle of Khaybar. It is narrated that a Jew struck him and severed his head, as a result of which he was martyred. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 6, p. 175, ‘Ab-uz-Zayyah bin Thabit, Dar-ulKutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat AlKubra, Vol. 3, pp. 364-365, Ab-uz-Zayyah bin Thabit, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) Then, there is Hazrat Ansa. He passed away during the Battle of Badr. However, there are different opinions in relation to this as some say that he was alive until the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakrra. Nevertheless, he was a freed, Abyssinian slave of the Holy Prophetsa. His name was Ansa and it can also be found as Abu Ansa. Similarly, according to some, his title was Abu Masrooh. Hazrat Ansa accepted Islam in its early stages and migrated to Medina at the time of migration. He became the guest of Hazrat Sa‘d bin Khaithma. For as long as he was alive, his passion was to serve the Holy Prophetsa. He was so obedient that it is narrated in relation to him that even when he used to take a seat, he would do so after seeking permission from the Holy Prophetsa.

He fought alongside the Holy Prophetsa in the Battle of Badr. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 1,

21

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM pp. 301-302, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (Sira Al-Sahaba, Shah Muin-ul-din Ahmad Nadwi, Vol. 2, pt. 2, p. 587, Darul-Isha’at, Karachi) & (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 1, p. 283, Ansa Maula Rasul Allah, Suraqa bin ‘Amr, Da-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, 1995, Beirut) Then, there is Hazrat Abu Kabsha Sulaim. His title is Abu Kabsha. He passed away during the Khilafat of Hazrat ‘Umar.

According to some, his name was Salama.

He was a freed, Persian slave of the Holy Prophetsa. He is a companion who participated in the Battle of Badr. He was born in the area of Aus. There are various narrations regarding his birthplace and lineage. Some consider him to be Persian, others consider him to be Dausi and others consider him to be from Mecca. He accepted Islam in the very early stages and migrated to Medina after receiving permission to do so. He fought alongside the Holy Prophetsa during every battle, including the battle of Badr. (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 7, p. 284, Abu Kabsha, Da-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, 1995, Beirut), (Sira Al-Sahaba, Shah Muin-ul-din Ahmad Nadwi, Vol. 2, pt.

2, p. 579, Dar-ul-Isha’at, Karachi) When Hazrat Abu Kabsha migrated to Medina, he stayed with Hazrat Kulthum bin Al-Hadam. According to another narration, he stayed with Hazrat Sa‘d bin Khaithma.

Hazrat Abu Kabsha passed away on the first night after Hazrat ‘Umarra was elected as Khalifa. This was on the twenty-second Jamadi-uth-Thani [sixth month of the lunar calendar] in the thirteenth year of Hijra.

(At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 36, Abu Kabsha, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 5, pp. 301-302, Dar-ul-Kutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) Then, there is Hazrat Marsad bin Abi Marsad. He passed away during the month of Safar [second month of the lunar calendar] in the third year of Hijra. He was a companion who participated in the Battle of Badr. He was an ally of Hazrat Hamza bin Abd-il-Muttalib. He participated in the battle of Uhud along with his father.

He accepted Islam in its initial stages and migrated to Medina prior to the Battle of Badr. The Holy Prophetsa formed a bond of brotherhood between him and Hazrat Aus bin Samit. On the day of [the Battle of] Badr, he arrived on a horse, named Sabal.

Ibn Ishaq has written that Hazrat Marsad, may Allah be pleased with him, was the leader of the group of soldiers, which the Holy Prophetsa send to Raji‘. This incident took place during the month of Safar in the third year of Hijra. According to some, Hazrat ‘Asim bin Thabit was the leader of that group. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p.

35, Abu Marsad, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 5, p. 133, Marsad bin Abi Marsad, Dar-ul-Kutub-ulIlmiyyah, Beirut) The incident of his martyrdom is as follows. Banu ‘Azl and Qaarah pretended to have accepted Islam and requested the Holy Prophetsa to send them some teachers in order to provide them with religious education. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa sent them a group of people. There is a difference of opinion found on this matter in the narrations as to whether it was sent in the leadership of Hazrat Marsad, may Allah be pleased with him, or Hazrat ‘Asim, may Allah be pleased with him. These people

had barely reached the place of Raji’, when Banu Huzail approached them with bare swords and said that they do not wish to kill them. Rather, they wish to receive a ransom from the people of Mecca and will promise to protect their lives. Upon this, Hazrat Marsad, Khalid and ‘Asim, may Allah be pleased with them, said that they do not trust their promise. Hence, all three gave their lives fighting them. (Sira Al-Sahaba, Shah Muin-ul-din Ahmad Nadwi, Vol. 2, pt.

2, p. 555, Dar-ul-Isha’at, Karachi) Then, there is a companion by the name Hazrat Abu Marsad bin Qannas bin AlHussain Ghanwi. He passed away in the twelfth year of Hijra [migration to Medina].

According to some people, his title was Abu Hisn. He was a resident of Syria. He accepted Islam in its very early stages and migrated to Medina after seeking permission to do so. The Holy Prophetsa formed a bond of brotherhood between him and Hazrat ‘Ibada bin Samit. (Sira Al-Sahaba, Shah Muin-ul-din Ahmad Nadwi, Vol. 2, pt. 2, p. 581, Dar-ul-Isha’at, Karachi), (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 7, p. 305, Abu Marsad Ghanwi, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut) When Abu Marsad, may Allah be pleased with him, and his son, Marsad migrated to Medina, both of them stayed with Hazrat Kulthum bin Al-Hadam.

According to some, both of them stayed with Hazrat Sa‘d bin Haitham. Hazrat Abu Marsad was with the Holy Prophetsa in all the battles. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p.

35, Abu Marsad, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) He has a status in history for the following incident: Hazrat Hatib bin Abi Baltah sent a letter to the Meccans to secretly inform them [of the Holy Prophet’ssa plan] with the thought of protecting his children there. God Almighty informed the Holy Prophetsa about this so he sent three riders after the woman who was taking this letter and they took it from her. Hazrat Abu Marsad was one of the three riders. It is narrated from Hazrat Alira, “The Holy Prophetsa sent Abu Marsad Ghanwi, Zubair and I as we were able to ride a horse and the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Go until you reach the place called Roza-e-Khaakh, there you will find a woman from amongst the idol-worshippers who has the letter from Hatib bin Abi Baltah intended for the Idol worshippers.’” This is mentioned in Bukhari.

(Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Maghaazi, Baab Fazl Man Shahda Badran, Hadith. 3983) Hazrat Abu Marsad has narrated a hadith [tradition] from the Holy Prophetsa which is mentioned in Muslim and Baghwi.

He states: “I heard the Holy Prophetsa saying: ‘Do no sit on graves and do not pray in their direction.’” (Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 7, p. 305, Abu Marsad Ghanwi, Da-ulKutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut) He passed away during the Khilafat of Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiqra in the 12th Hijri at the age of sixty-six. (Sira Al-Sahaba, Shah Muin-ul-din Ahmad Nadwi, Vol. 2, pt. 2, p.

581, Dar-ul-Isha’at, Karachi), There is a companion named Hazrat Suleet bin Qais bin ‘Amar. He passed away in 14th Hijri. His full name was Hazrat Suleet bin Qais bin ‘Amar bin ‘Ubaid bin Malik.

After accepting Islam, both Hazrat Sulaeet bin Qais and Hazrat Abu Salma destroyed the idols of the family of Banu ‘Adi bin Najjaar.

At the occasion of the Holy Prophetsa’s migration to Medina when he was entering the city on his camel, every tribe desired that he would stay at their home. When the Holy Prophetsa’s camel reached the house of Banu ‘Adi, and they were his maternal uncles because Salma bint ‘Amr, mother of ‘Abdul Muttalib, was from this tribe, at that time Hazrat Suleet bin Qais and Aseerah bin Abu Khuwarjah tried to stop the Holy Prophetsa but he stated ,“Leave my camel as it is moving under divine guidance.” That is, it will stop wherever God desires. Hazrat Suleet took part in the battles of Badr, Uhud, Khandaq and all the battles with the Holy Prophetsa. He passed away in 14th Hijri during the Khilafat of Hazrat ‘Umar at the battle of Jisr in Abi Ubaid.

(At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 388, Suleet bin Qais, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut), (Seerat ibn Hisham, p. 229, Baab Hijrat-ul-Rasul, Dar ibn Hazam, Beirut) Hazrat Mujazar bin Ziyaad was martyred during the battle of Uhud. Mujazar was his title which means “A person possessing a heavy body”. The Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Mujazar and ‘Aaqil bin Buqair. It is mentioned in another place that the Holy Prophetsa established brotherhood between Hazrat Mujazar and Hazrat ‘Ukasha bin Mehsin. Hazrat Mujazar participated in the Battle of Badr and the Battle of Uhud.

(Al-Asaba Fi Tameez Al-Sahaba, Vol. 5, pp.

572-573, Mujazar bin Ziyaad, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1995, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat AlKubra, Vol. 3, p. 417, Mujazar bin Ziyaad, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) & (Ayun Al-Asar, Vol. 1, pp. 232-233, Zikr-ulMua’kha, Dar-ul-Qalam, Beirut, 1993) Ibn-e-Ishaaq narrates, “The Holy Prophetsa had prohibited the killing of Abu Bakhtari because he prevented people of Mecca from tormenting the Holy Prophetsa.

(Thus, the Prophetsa had stated to not kill him). Abu Bakhtari would not cause any suffering to the Holy Prophetsa and he was amongst those who protested against the pact of the Quraish against the Banu Hashim and the Bani Mutalib."

Hazrat Mujazar once came across Abu Bakhtari and said: “The Holy Prophetsa has stopped us from killing you.” Abu Bakhtari’s friend, who had left Mecca with him, was with him at the time. His name was Junada bin Mulayha and he was from the Banu Lais tribe. Abu Bahktari’s name was ‘Aas. He enquired, “What instructions do you have for my friend?” Hazrat Mujazar responded, “I swear by God, we will not spare your friend. The Prophetsa has instructed us only about you.” He responded, “If we are going to die then we shall die together. I cannot bear the thought of Meccan women talking about this and saying that I abandoned my companion to save my own life.” Both of them were ready to fight with Hazrat Mujazar, and during the battle, (Hazrat Mujazar) killed Abu Bhakhtari. Hazrat Mujazar came to the Holy Prophetsa and said, “I swear by the One Who ordained you with the Truth, I tried my utmost to take him as a prisoner and bring him to you, but he was unwilling. At last, he fought me and I took his life.” (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 5, pp.

59-60, Mujazar bin Ziyaad, Dar-ul-Kutubul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (Ayun Al-Asar, Vol. 1, p. 301, Baab Ghazwa Badr, Dar-ul-Qalam, Beirut, 1993)

Hazrat Mujazar’s children were in Medina and also in Baghdad. It is narrated

by Abi Wajzah, “The three men, amongst the Martyrs of Uhud, who were buried in a single grave were Mujazar bin Ziyaad, Nu‘man bin Malik and ‘Abdah bin Hassas.” (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 417, Mujazar bin Ziyaad, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) However, another narration states that Hazrat Aneesah bint ‘Adi came to the Holy Prophetsa and stated, “O Messenger of Allahsa, my son ‘Abdullah, who fought in the Battle of Badr, was martyred in the battle of Uhud. It is my desire that I bury my son near our home so that I remain close to him.” The Holy Prophetsa allowed her to do so and also it was decided that along with Hazrat ‘Abdullah, his friend Hazrat Mujazar shall also be buried in the same grave. Hence, both friends were wrapped together in one single of sheet of cloth and were carried to Medina on a Camel. Abdullah was bulkier and well-built than Mujazar who was slim and slender. It is mentioned that people were astonished to notice that they both weighed the same when people took them off of the camel. The Holy Prophetsa stated, “Their deeds have made them both equal to each other.” (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 7, p.

31, Aneesah bint ‘Adi, Dar-ul-Kutub-ulIlmiyyah, Beirut) Hazrat Hubbab bin Munzir Bin Jumuh was a Companion who passed away during the Khilafat of Hazrat ‘Umar. He was with the Holy Prophetsa during Badr, Uhud, Khandaq and all other battles. He remained resolute alongside the Holy Prophetsa during the battle of Uhud and pledged to the Holy Prophetsa to offer his life. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 1, p. 665, Hubbab bin Munzir, Dar-ulKutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat AlKubra, Vol. 3, p. 428, Hubbab bin Munzir, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) In relation to him, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra has written in Seerat Khatam-unNabiyeen, “The place where the Muslim army encamped was not ideal. At this, Habbab bin Munzir enquired of the Holy Prophetsa as to whether he had selected this place according to Divine revelation or merely as a strategy of war. Upon this, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘No divine commandment has been received in this regard; if you wish to make a proposal, then please do so.’

Hubbab submitted, ‘Then in my opinion, this place is not ideal. It would be better to advance and take possession of the spring located closest to the Quraish. I am aware of this spring, and its water is quite pleasant and generally plentiful as well.’ The Holy Prophetsa approved of this proposal and until then, since the Quraish were still encamped on the opposite side of the hillock, and the spring was unoccupied, the Muslims advanced and took possession of this spring. However, as mentioned in the Holy Quran, even at that time, the water of the spring was not as plentiful as usual, and the Muslims were faced with a shortage of water. In addition to this, the side of the valley where the Muslims were positioned was not ideal either, because it was very sandy, which made it difficult to maintain firm footing.

“Then, another grace of God was that there was some rainfall during the night as well, by which the Muslims found the opportunity to gather water in the form of

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

22 reservoirs. Another benefit of this was that the sand hardened, which prevented their feet from sinking. Conversely, towards the side of the Quraish, it became muddy and their water also became dirty.” (Seerat Khatam-un-Nabiyeen, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra, pp. 356-357) Hazrat ibn ‘Abbasra states, “Hazrat Gabriel descended upon the Holy Prophetsa and said: ‘Hazrat Hubbab bin Munzir’s suggestion is correct.’ The Holy Prophetsa stated, ‘O Hubab your advice was wise.’”

At the time of the Battle of Badr, Hazrat Hubbab bin Munzir was carrying the flag of the Khazraj tribe. He was thirty-three years old at the time. (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 2, p. 10, Hubbab bin Munzir, Da-ul-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra further writes about him in Seerat Khatam AlNabiyyeen, “When the Holy Prophetsa received news from his informants that the

they too will die.”

“Then he recited the following verse of the Holy Quran:

َ َ ّ ْ َ ْ ْ َ َ ْ َ ٌ ُ َ َّ ٌ َّ َ ُ َ َ ‫الرُ ُس ُل أف ِإ ْن‬ ‫وما محمد إِلا رسول قد خلت ِمن قب ِل ِه‬ َ َ ْ‫ات أَ ْو ُق ِت َل انْقَ َل ْب ُت ْم َع َلى أَ ْعقَاب ُك ْم َو َم ْن يَ ْنقَ ِلب‬ ‫م‬ ِ َ َ َ َ َ ُ ّ ّ ً َ َ ْ ُ‫اللَه‬ ّ َ َ ‫على ع ِق َب ْي ِه فل ْن يض َر الل َه ش ْيئا َو َس َيج ِزي‬ ّ َ ‫الشاكِ ِر‬ ‫ين‬

“And Muhammad is only a Messenger.

Verily, all Messengers have passed away before him. If then he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels? And he who turns back on his heels shall not harm Allah at all. And Allah will certainly reward the grateful.” (The Holy Quran, 3:145) “Sulaiman mentions that upon hearing this, people began to weep profusely.

Sulaiman further narrates that some Ansar companions gathered around Hazrat Sa‘d Bin Abaadah at the house of Bani Sa‘adah

Hazrat Hubbab bin Munzir narrates, “Hazrat Jibraelas came to the Holy Prophetsa and said: ‘What is more preferred to you; that you remain in this world with your companions, or to return to your Lord, where you will be granted everlasting provisions in paradise that have been vouchsafed to you. Furthermore, all that which you desire and everything that is a means of providing satisfaction to you will also be granted.’ The Holy Prophetsa turned to his companions and asked: ‘What is your opinion?’ The Companions said: ‘O Messenger of Allah! We prefer that you stay with us so that you can inform us of the weaknesses of our enemies; then pray to God Almighty to grant His succour to defeat them; likewise, you can confer to us Divine revelation.’” The Holy Prophetsa then turned to Hubbab bin Munzir and said, “What is your opinion? You are very quiet.”

At this Hubbab bin Munzir replied, “O

In regards to the status of the Companionsra, it is not for us to determine their fate and that certain companions will be forgiven and other will not. Due to whatever misunderstanding and error those unfortunate circumstances arose, that matter should be left with God Almighty alone, and the Muslims in fact have faced the consequences of that too army of the Quraish had reached nearby, he sent a companion named Hubbab bin Munzir to obtain information as to the enemy’s number and strength. Moreover, the Holy Prophetsa also emphasised that if the strength of the enemy was greater than their own and the Muslims were in a state of danger, Hubbab should not announce this news openly upon his return in the gathering; rather, he should convey this news privately, so that no one was disheartened.

Hubbab quietly left and returned with great skill in a short period of time submitting his report to the Holy Prophetsa.” (Seerat Khatam-un-Nabiyeen, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra, p. 484) Yahyah bin Sa‘d narrates, “On the day of Quraizah and the day of Al-Nazeer, when the Holy Prophetsa sought counsel from people, Hazrat Hubbab bin Munzir stood up and said, ‘I am of the opinion that we settle down in the midst of the army camps, (that is, go to the location closest to the army in order to obtain intelligence and carry out better surveillance).’ The Holy Prophetsa accepted his suggestion. He passed away during the Khilafat of Hazrat Umar.” (At-Tabaqat Al-Kubra, Vol. 3, p. 427428, Hubbab bin Munzir, Da-ul-Kutub AlIlmiyyah, 1990, Beirut) When the Holy Prophetsa passed away, the manner in which Hazrat Abu Bakrra controlled that entire situation and the condition of the Companionsra has been mentioned as follows, “After praising the Lord, Hazrat Abu Bakrra stated, ‘Whoever worshiped Muhammadsa should know that Muhammadsa has surely passed away and whoever worshipped Allah should keep in mind that Allah is alive and shall never pass away.’ And Hazrat Abu Bakr then recited the following verse:

َ ‫إنَّ َك َم ّي ٌت َوإنَّ ُه ْم َم ّي ُت‬ ‫ون‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ

“Surely thou wilt die, and surely

and said to him, ‘There shall be one leader amongst us, and one leader amongst you.’

Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umar Bin Khattabra and Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin alJarrah came to them. Hazrat Umarra was about to speak when Hazrat Abu Bakrra instructed him to stop. Hazrat Umarra would narrate [at a later stage], ‘I swear by Allah, I had prepared a speech for what I intended to say and I was pleased by it, but I was afraid that Hazrat Abu Bakr would not be able to deliver a similar speech. However, Hazrat Abu Bakr delivered a speech which was more eloquent than the speech of any other person.’ During his speech he also stated, ‘We are the leaders, and you are ministers.’ Upon hearing this Hubbab Bin Munzar said, ‘It can never be so, by God it can never be so.’

I am mentioning this because the name of Hubbab Bin Munzir has been mentioned in these accounts. Upon hearing this Hubbab Bin Munzir said, “It can never be so, by God! it can never be so. By God! We will never permit for this to happen. There will be one leader from us and one leader from amongst you.” That is to say that there would be one leader amongst the Quraish and one leader amongst the Ansar. Hazrat Abu Bakrra replied, “No, we are the leaders and you are the ministers, because with respect to lineage and ancient tradition, the Quraish hold precedence over all other tribes of Arabia. Therefore, take initiation at the hand of Umar or Abu Ubaidah.”

Hazrat Umarra said, “No, rather we will take initiation at your hand because you are our chief, the best amongst us and you were dearer to the Holy Prophetsa than any of us.”

After saying this, he held the hand of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and took initiation at his hand.

Seeing this, others followed and eventually everyone took initiation at his hand. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Kitabul Fazail Ashaab An Nabi, Hadith No.3668)

Messenger of Allah! You should choose that path which God Almighty has preferred for you.” Hazrat Hubbab says that the Holy Prophetsa accepted this statement of mine.”

(Al-Mustadrak Ala Al-Sahihain, Vol. 3, p.

483, Darul Kutubul Ilmiyya, Beirut, 2002) Then there was a companion named Hazrat Rifa‘ah bin Raafi bin Malik bin Ajlaan who was from among the Ansar.

He passed away under the early rule of Ameer Muawiyyah. Hazrat Rifa‘ah bin Malik bin Ujlan was known as Abu Muaz and his mother was Malik bint Ubay bin Salool, who was the sister of the chief of the hypocrites, Abdullah bin Ubay bin Salool.

He was present during the Bai‘at Uqbah as well as the Battle of Badr, Battle of Uhud, Battle of the Ditch, Bai‘at-e-Rizwan and all other battles in which the Holy Prophetsa took part in. Two of his brothers, Khallaad bin Raafi and Malik bin Raafi took part in the Battle of Badr. (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 2, pg. 279, Rifa’ah bin Raafi’, Dar-ul-Kutubul-Ilmiyyah, 2004, Beirut), (At-Tabaqat AlKubra, Vol. 3, p. 447, Rifa’ah bin Raafi’, Dar Ihya At-turath Al-Arabi, 1990, Beirut) Hazrat Muaz narrates on account of his father – Hazrat Rifa‘ah bin Raafi, who took part in the Battle of Badr – that Hazrat Jibraelas [Gabriel] asked the Holy Prophetsa his perception about those companions who took part in the Battle of Badr? The Holy Prophetsa said “The best among the Muslims” or words to this effect. Hazrat Jibrael replied: “In the same manner, those angels that took part in the Battle of Badr are also superior in rank.” This hadith is found in Bukhari. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Hadith No.3992) With regards to how angels participated in the Battle of Badr, Hazrat Zainul Abideen Waliullah Shah Sahib has explained this incident in his commentary of Bukhari, “God Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

َّ َ​َ ُ َّ َ ْ ْ َ ُ ‫ِاذ یُوۡ ِح ۡی َر ّبک ِالَی ال َم ٰٓل ِئک ِۃ انِ ۡی َم َعك ْم فث ِّب ُتوا ال ِذیۡ َن‬ ْ َ ّ ُ َ َ َ ۡ َّ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ ۡ ْ ُ َ ۡ ُ َ ٰ ‫الرُ ْع َب فاض ِربُوۡا‬ ‫امنوا ؕ سال ِقی فِی قلو ِب ال ِذین کفروا‬ َ َُ ُْ ُ ْ َ ْ َۡ َ َ ‫ان‬ ٍ ‫اق َواض ِربوۡا ِمنہ ْم ك ّل بَن‬ ِ ‫فوْق الاعن‬

“‘And remember the time when thy Lord revealed to the angels, saying, “I am with you; so give firmness to those who believe. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Smite, then, the upper parts of their necks, and smite off all fingertips.”’ [Surah Al Anfal: 13] Darbul A‘naaq, Darbur Riqaab and Darb Kulla Banaan means a striking with full force and keeping the target in sight.” There are two or three similar narrations. Regarding these, Shah Sahib writes: “This chapter deals with the presence of angels [in the Battle of Badr] and regarding the phenomenon of seeing them. The reality of the matter is that it was in the form of Divine revelation and them fighting in battle is also of the same nature.”

In other words, the battle is similar in nature of the angels and not with arrows and muskets. The angels did not use arrows or swords and one can only see them through one’s spiritual eye and not with the physical eye. The Holy Prophetsa had witnessed this as well as the Companions and other Saints (i.e. that angels partake in battle).

Whilst elaborating on how angels partake in battle, Shah Sahib writes: “The tribe of Quraish became enraged after the incident at Nakhlah, and this became the cause of further battles in which the disbelievers were to perish according to Divine prophecy. The nature of angels is different to ours and their way of battle is unique. During the Battle of Badr, the enemy camped on a high stony mound and the Holy Prophetsa camped at the foot of that hill. The small number of the Muslims was concealed for the enemy. Furthermore, due to the strong winds, it rained heavily. Every arrow that the companions fired landed on its target successfully. The enemies were perplexed to see the companions fighting with such resolve and determination. All this was due to the Divine influence of the angels and was vouchsafed to the Holy Prophetsa in the following words:

ُ​ُ ّ َ ُ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َّ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ْ َ ْ ‫اب لَك ْم انِ ۡی ُم ِم ّدك ۡم‬ ‫ِاذ تست ِغیثون ربكم فاستج‬ َ‫باَلْف ّم َن ال ْ َم ٰٓلئ َک ِۃ ُم ْردفِیۡن‬ ِ ِ ٍ ِ ِ

‘And remember the time When you implored the assistance of your Lord, and He answered you, saying, “I will assist you with a thousand of the angels, following one another.”’” [Surah Al Anfal: 10] He further writes, “The acceptance of the prayer of the Holy Prophetsa ensured that all the specific measures fall in place at the appointed time. If one ponders over these events, one can witness the power and influence of the angels.” He then further writes, “Who was it that enabled the Holy Prophetsa to leave Mecca under precarious circumstances, whilst keeping the Meccan’s ignorant of the events? Having chased the Holy Prophetsa up Cave Thaur, who was it that made them turn back emptyhanded?

Who enabled the Holy Prophetsa to safely reach Medina, which was to become an important centre for the progress of Islam?”

He also writes, “After the migration to Medina, Hazrat Abbasra remained in Mecca in his state of idolatry, but at the same time had sympathy for the Holy Prophetsa and

23

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM informed him of the ploys of the Meccans.

In other words, through Hazrat Abbasra, the angels exerted their influence. (This is how the angels work). Behind all these incidents is the work of the angels. The victory and success of the battles in which the Holy Prophetsa fought in is an exegesis of the faith inspiring verse:

are closely linked to one another. There exists an aspect of continuity and Divine commandment, and they are strengthened through strong Divine planning.” (Sahih AlBukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Vol 8, pp. 71-73 Nazarat Isha’at, Rabwah) Thus, this is the deeper meaning wherein God Almighty stated that He sent angels

Prophetsa. Therefore, for the sake of God Almighty, do not hinder us from Khilafat.’

Thus, you know well that at that time we did not pursue the matter (of Khilafat) with you. (We never argued with you over this and took the Bai‘at of Khilafat showing complete obedience.) The reason for this was because we witnessed that the truth

According to a narration, Abu Zoha relates that Amar bin Shurahbeel Abu Maisarah, who was from amongst the best students of Hazrat Abdullah bin Masud, saw in a dream that there was a beautiful garden full of greenery in which there were a few tents. One belonged to Hazrat Ammar bin Yasirra and there were a few other tens in which Dhul Qalaal was also there. Abu Maisarah enquired as to how this was possible for they had fought against one another. He then heard a voice saying, “They found their Lord to be Most-Forgiving, and hence they are now together." َ ْ َّ َْ ُ ُ ۡ ‫انِ ۡی ُم ِم ّدك ۡم ِبال ٍف ِّم َن ال َم ٰٓل ِئک ِۃ ُم ْر ِدفِی َن‬

[I will assist you with a thousand of the angels, following one another]” Shah Sahib then further writes, “I was taught every chapter of Sahih al-Bukhari by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I, Hazrat Maulana Nuruddin Sahibra. Likewise, I listened to lectures delivered on the Holy Quran and also studied it. With regards to angels, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira once said, ‘Nuruddin has also experienced communion with angels. The entire system of angels is very vast. For each ability and faculty of man there is an assigned angel such as for sight, hearing, touch, temperament, knowledge, wisdom and all mental abilities. Without the assistance of angels these faculties are redundant, rather they become harmful.’”

All of man’s abilities and faculties only function with the help of angels.

He further writes, “An arrow, bullet or taking an aim, can only accurately reach the target when one’s mind and intellect are intact and one can determine the distance of how far or close something really is.

Moreover, one needs to be in control of their senses and emotions, otherwise the target will be missed.”

He writes that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira used to say, “An angel is assigned for every physical and mental faculty. Whether one is in a state of belief or disbelief, they have relationship with every person and with each faculty to a certain degree. The Holy Quran mentions that they were 3000 at the time of the Battle of Badr and 5000 in the Battle of Uhud. This difference in number is due to the importance of the situation.

During the Battle of Badr the enemies were few in number as compared to the Battle of Uhud and thus, there was more danger and therefore the greater the number of angels promised to be sent for protection. [God Almighty] states:

َّ َّ ۡ ْ ْ ‫َو َما الن ْص ُر ِالا ِم ْن ِعن ِد الل ِہ ال َع ِزیۡ ِز ال َح ِک ۡی ِم‬

“The promise of Divine help from God Almighty’s attributes of being the Almighty and All-Wise both necessitates perfect planning and complete might and strength in which all the means of granting help

who fought. However, it does not mean that the angels were physically fighting.

According to some there are narrations stating that the wounds inflicted by the angels [upon the enemy] were completely different in appearance to the ones inflicted by the Companions; this is completely wrong. The truth of the matter is that they direct the human faculties and ensure they are utilised in the best manner. When all of this is happening through the influence of the angels, then it is as if it is they who are actually fighting. (Fath-ul-Bari, Sharah Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Vol 7, pg. 312, Hadith No. 3992, Araam Baagh, Karachi) Hazrat Yahya relates from Muaz bin Rifa‘ah bin Raafi that Hazrat Rifa‘ah was from among those who took part in the Battle of Badr and his father, Hazrat Raafi, was among those who was present at the Bai‘at at Uqbah. Hazrat Raafi used to say to his son, Hazrat Rifa‘ah, that for him taking part in the Battle of Badr was a more honourable and of greater significance than taking Bai‘at at Uqbah. (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Hadith No. 3993) Being part of the Battle of Badr was a huge honour. Hazrat Rifa‘ah bin Raafi also took part in the Battle of Jamal and Sifin alongside Hazrat Ali. According to a narration, when Hazrat Talhara and Hazrat Zubairra left for Basra with the army, the wife of Hazrat Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib, Umme Al-Fazl bint Harith informed Hazrat Alira of their departure. Upon this, Hazrat Alira said, “I am astounded at the fact that people attacked Hazrat Usmanra and martyred him, and yet, without any compulsion they took my Bai‘at; I did not compel anyone to enter into my Bai‘at. People took the Bai‘at willingly and Talha and Zubair were among them. Yet now they have left for Iraq with an army.” Hazrat Rifa‘ah bin Rafi commented on this saying, “When the Holy Prophetsa passed away, we assumed that we, the Ansar, were more deserving of Khilafat for we helped the Holy Prophetsa and we have a very high status in faith. However, you all said ‘We, the Muhajireen [those who migrated from Mecca], are from amongst the first [to accept Islam] and we are friends and have close relations with the Holy

was being practiced, the Book of God was being followed and the Sunnah [practice] of the Holy Prophetsa was being established, therefore, we were left with no option but to follow. What more could we want! We took your Bai‘at and then we never turned our backs from this. You are far better than those who oppose you now, therefore give us your instructions.” Just as he said this, Hajaaj bin Ghaziya Ansari came and said, “O Leader of the faithful! We must seek to take action against this issue before it is too late. My soul will never be at ease if I was overcome with fear. O people of the Ansar!

You must assist the Leader of the Faithful once again, just as you did so for the Holy Prophetsa. I swear by God that this support will be just like the support we offered the first time, except that the previous support was naturally superior.” (Usdul Ghaaba, Vol. 2, pg. 280-281, Rifa’ah bin Raafi’, Dar-ulKutub-ul-Ilmiyyah, 2004, Beirut), Nevertheless, he passed away during the early period of Hazrat Amir Muawiyah’s leadership. (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 497, Rifa’ah bin Raafi’, Darul Jaleel, Beirut, 1992), This was the description of the Companions.

I wish to say something in reference to the last Friday Sermon and further elaborate on a particular incident. It was mentioned in regards to Hazrat Ammarra that Hazrat Amar bin Al-Aas expressed great sorrow and concern at his demise because he had heard the Holy Prophetsa state that Ammarra would be martyred by a rebellious group.

Hazrat Amar bin Al-Aas showed great concern because at the time he was on the side of Amir Muawiyah and it was the army of Hazrat Amir Muawiyah which martyred Hazat Ammar. (Al-Mustadrak Ala AlSahihain, Vol. 3, p. 474, Hadith 5726, Darul-Haramain Li Al-Taba’ati Wa Al-Nashre Wa Al-Tauzi, 1997) Nevertheless, people ask the question that if he was from among those who rebelled, then why was so much respect given to his name. Also, Hazrat Amir Muawiyah has been given a significant status in the literature of the Jamaat.

Firstly, in regards to the status of the Companionsra, it is not for us to determine their fate and that certain companions

will be forgiven and other will not. Due to whatever misunderstanding and error those unfortunate circumstances arose, that matter should be left with God Almighty alone, and the Muslims in fact have faced the consequences of that too. These questions also arose in the minds of those at the time, and indeed, they would have also prayed in order to alleviate this concern surrounding this incident as there were Companions on both sides fighting one another. They indeed must have prayed for guidance as well, and God Almighty surely would have granted them guidance too. Thus, according to a narration, Abu Zoha relates that Amar bin Shurahbeel Abu Maisarah, who was from amongst the best students of Hazrat Abdullah bin Masud, saw in a dream that there was a beautiful garden full of greenery in which there were a few tents.

One belonged to Hazrat Ammar bin Yasirra and there were a few other tens in which Dhul Qalaal was also there. Abu Maisarah enquired as to how this was possible for they had fought against one another. He then heard a voice saying, “They found their Lord to be Most-Forgiving, and hence they are now together.” (Al-Sunan Al-Kubra Libehqi, Vol. 8, p. 302, Kitab-ul-Salat Al-Istisqa, Baab Al-Istisqa, Hadith 6530, Maktaba Al-Rushd, Beirut, 2004) Thus, these matters are now in the hands of God Almighty. It is not for us to ponder over these issues and it is because of these wars and the fact that Muslims continued to dwell over these issues that it has caused great divide amongst. We are witnessing the impact of this even today. These incidents should be a lesson for us and instead of dwelling over them we should be seeking ways to establish unity.

I once mentioned an account related

by Hazrat Musleh Maudra which was in reference to Amir Muwaiya. Upon this someone from one of the Arab countries wrote to me and said that he was the leader of a murderous and rebellious group, why do I say his name with such respect. Therefore, this narration in which the dream was mentioned is a sufficient enough response in that God Almighty is Most-Forgiving and Ever Merciful. We should focus on reforming our conditions and affairs instead of commenting about them. The Promised Messiahas also in certain places has praised Hazrat Amir Muawiyah. Therefore, we too, rather than commenting on the errors of these noble men should instead take lessons from it. In regards to Hazrat Amir Muawiyah it is also mentioned that once when a battle was taking place between him and Hazrat Ali and the discord was increasing, a Christian king sought to launch an attack on the Muslims considering their condition to be weak. When Hazrat Amir Muawiyah learnt of this news, he said [to that king], “If this is what you are planning, then remember that if you launch an attack, I will be the first general fighting under the flag of Hazrat Ali. I will fight with him against you.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol 4, pg 430).

Therefore, ponder over your actions. Thus, such is the status of these people.

May God Almighty enable us to remain as one and united, and also excel in our good deeds.

(Translated by The Review of Religions)

Friday 3 August 2018 | AL HAKAM

24

Book Intro

Haqiqatul-Wahi (The Philosophy of Divine Revelation) Publisher: Islam International Publications ‘Haqiqatul-Wahi: The Philosophy of Divine Revelation’ is one of the most important books of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi (peace be upon him) —and soon it will be available in English.

About the Book Published just a year prior to his demise, the content of Haqiqatul-Wahi spans virtually the entire ministry of the Promised Messiahas and stands as his second longest written work ever. Through reasoned arguments and a detailed exposition of heavenly Signs, Haqiqatul-Wahi proves that God exists and still speaks to His chosen ones; it also establishes the truth of Islam and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), as well as the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas. Its importance in tabligh [conveying the message] cannot be overstated.

Outline of Haqiqatul-Wahi Revelation and True Dreams – The Promised Messiahas begins by explaining that every soul has been invested with the capacity to connect with its Maker, no matter what its spiritual state. In short, anyone is capable of seeing a true dream—on occasion. But the Promised Messiahas cautions: “Most people are unaware of the stage and condition in which a dream or revelation can be worthy and reliable,” nor do they recognise that their dreams can be “the words of Satan, not of God—or the speaking of the self, not the speaking of the Lord.”

Accordingly, he categorises recipients of true dreams and revelation into three types: (1) Those who have almost no connection to God; (2) Those who have an imperfect relationship; and (3) Those who receive revelation from God Almighty in its purest and most perfect form and who are honoured with divine communion and discourse in all its perfection.

Each of these types is discussed in a chapter. In chapter four (4), the Author relates his own personal experiences; that is to say, he explains as to which of the three categories he has been placed in by the

English Books Printed and available this Jalsa 1. A Gift For the Queen 2. A Message of Peace 3. A Review of the Debate between Batalvi & Chakralvi 4. Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at & Independ-

grace and munificence of God Almighty. This chapter ends with a transcription of numerous revelations bestowed upon the Promised Messiahas.

Questions and Answers – The Promised Messiahas then turns his attention to ‘Abdul Hakim Khan, who was at one time a follower of his, but then began to question the teachings of the Promised Messiahas. In particular, Khan believed that it was not necessary to believe in the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa to earn salvation. “According to him,” the Promised Messiahas relates, “one can attain salvation even after abandoning Islam.” In letters to the Promised Messiahas, Khan asks nine questions, which the Promised Messiahas answers in Haqiqatul-Wahi.

210 Signs – The Promised Messiahas then recounts more than 200 Signs to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is true in his claims. Some of these Signs are the fulfilment of prophecies by earlier Prophets; others by Auliya-ullah [Friends of God] from the Muslim ummah; and others yet which are fulfilled at the hands of the Promised Messiahas. Some Signs are related in a few sentences, while others span more than fifty pages.

Invitation to Muslims, Aryas, and Christians – The Author includes heartfelt appeals to Muslims, Hindus, and Christian priests to study his book, cover-to-cover. To the Muslim ummah in particular he calls out: “I appeal in the name of God to all the distinguished scholars, elders, and those who can read this book from among my people that if this book reaches them they should study it closely from beginning to end […] even at the cost of their time and engagements…”

Al-Istifta’ – The last portion is a translation of an Arabic treatise, the title of which means, “seeking a

ence of Kashmir & Palestine 5. Ahmadiyyat - The True Islam 6. An Introduction to the Hidden Treasures of Islam 7. Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part III 8. Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part V 9. Haqiqatul Wahi 10. Hazrat Juwairiyah 11. Hazrat Mariyah Qibtiyyah 12. Hazrat Umar 13. Hazrat Zainab

verdict from the scholars of Islam”. Written in highly eloquent and classical Arabic, and sealed with a hauntingly beautiful 50-page ode in Arabic (known as a qasidah), al-Istifta’ addresses the Muslim divines of the Arab world and beyond.

How to Buy Limited quantities will Insha-Allah be available at Jalsa Salana UK 2018. Shortly thereafter, the book should be available in the UK through normal Jamaat channels, though Additional Wakalat-e-Tasnif would encourage members to purchase Haqiqatul-Wahi through Amazon.com (beginning in October), which will serve to raise the book’s profile to non-Muslims and non-Ahmadis who are browsing books online related to God, Islam, etc.

For more information, write to wakalat.tasneef@gmail.com or go to Facebook.com/HaqiqatulWahiBook.

14. How to be Free from Sin 15. Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues 16. Lecture Lahore 17. Lecture Sialkot 18. Message of Love & Brotherhood to Africa 19. My Book About God 20. Noah's Ark 21. Our Beloved Master 22. Our Teaching 23. Proceedings of a Prayer Meeting

24. Tadhkirah (3rd Edition) 25. The British Government & Jihad 26. The Holy Qur'an with Swedish Translation 27. The Need for the Imam 28. The Outset of Dissension in Islam 29. The True Story of Jesus 30. The Will 21. Three Questions by a Christian and their Answers

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad |Sub-editorial team: Fateh Alam, Attaul Haye Nasir | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad, Nauman Hadi|© Al Hakam 2018