Al Hakam - 20 September 2024

The four types of Quranic miracles: Physical, metaphysical and beyond

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This Week in History 20 - 26 September

Accounts of 1924: Caliph’s response to Maulvi Nematullah Khan’s martyrdom

Can Starmer’s Labour finally solve Britain’s biggest problems?

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 20 September 2024 | Issue CCCXL Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL, UK info@alhakam.org | ISSN 2754-7388

Combatting misinformation

Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa

The global war on truth and the Islamic solution In an era where information flows endlessly from countless sources, people find themselves starved of truth. The digital age, heralded as the dawn of unparalleled access to knowledge, has instead become a battleground where fact and falsehood battle for supremacy. The very platforms designed to enlighten us are now flooded with deception, leaving us adrift in a sea of misinformation.

Recent events illustrate this troubling reality. The riots that erupted in parts of the UK in July 2024, fuelled by baseless rumours circulating on social media, show how swiftly false narratives can incite real-world chaos, affecting individuals and families, and straining the bonds of communities. (“Timeline of how online misinformation fuelled UK riots”, www.bbc.co.uk) As we stand on the cusp of significant political shifts, the stakes are higher than ever. Upcoming elections around the world, notably in the United States, are overshadowed by the spectre of disinformation campaigns aiming to manipulate public opinion. The rise of sophisticated technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfakes has further muddied the waters. Chatbots generate convincingly fabricated images and videos, making it increasingly difficult to discern truth from illusion.

In the midst of this global war on truth, one might ask: Who can stem this tide of deception? In societies where freedom is often invoked to justify unfettered expression, attempts to curb misinformation

Manifold reward for good deeds َ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ ّٰ ُ ���‫ ﻗﺎل ﻗﺎل َر ُﺳﻮل ا‬،‫ﻋ ْﻦ أ�ِ� ﻫ َﺮﻳْ َﺮة‬ َ َ ّ ّٰ ّ ‫ ِإذا أ ْﺣ َﺴ َﻦ‬:‫ﺻﻠﻰ ا��� �ﻠﻴﻪ وﺳﻠﻢ‬ ُّ ُ َ ُ َ َ ْ ُ ُ َ �‫أ َﺣﺪ� ْﻢ ِإﺳ‬ ‫ ﻓ�ﻞ َﺣ َﺴ َﻨ ٍﺔ‬،‫�ﻣﻪ‬ ُْ ُ َ َ َ ْ َ ‫ﻳ َ ْﻌ َﻤﻠ َﻬﺎ ﺗﻜ َﺘ ُﺐ � ُ� ﺑِ َﻌ� ِ� أ ْﻣﺜﺎ ِ��ﺎ‬ ُّ ُ َ َ َ ْ ‫ َو�ﻞ َﺳ ِّﻴﺌ ٍﺔ‬،‫ﻒ‬ ٍ ‫ِإﻟﻰ َﺳ ْﺒ ِﻌ ِﻤﺎﺋ ِﺔ ِﺿﻌ‬ ُْ ُ ْ َ .‫ﻳ َ ْﻌ َﻤﻠ َﻬﺎ ﺗﻜ َﺘ ُﺐ � ُ� ﺑِ ِﻤﺜ ِﻠ َﻬﺎ‬ Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrated that “Allah’s Messengersa said, ‘If any one of you perfects their [practice of] Islam, every good deed they perform will be recorded for them as tenfold to seven hundred times over, and every bad deed they commit will be recorded for them as one equivalent sin.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-iman, Bab husni imani l-mar’, Hadith 42)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words Image: Canva

frequently collide with arguments for personal liberties. Regulations falter when faced with the sheer volume and velocity of falsehoods proliferating across digital landscapes. It becomes evident that without a unifying moral compass, efforts to combat this crisis are akin to battling shadows.

The answer, profound yet simple, lies in a return to a moral framework anchored in Divine guidance. Only through embracing a higher ethical standard can we hope to navigate these turbulent times. Islam, with its unwavering emphasis on truthfulness, offers a compelling solution to the crisis we face.

The Islamic command of truthfulness Islam places paramount importance on truthfulness, considering it one of the foundations upon which all virtues stand. No other scripture places as much emphasis on truth as the Holy Quran. It not only repeatedly emphasises the significance of being truthful but also warns against the perils of lying and spreading falsehood.

Allah Almighty says:

Falsehood is an idol “Just as a foolish person abandons Allah the Exalted and bows down to a stone, similarly, they abandon truth and integrity, turning falsehood into an idol for their personal benefit.

This is why Allah the Exalted has associated falsehood with idolatry and equated the two. Just as an idolater seeks salvation from an idol, in the same way, the liar creates their own idol of falsehood and believes they will be saved through it. What a Continued on next page >>

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terrible calamity has befallen them! If they are told, ‘Why do you indulge in this idolatry? Abandon this impurity,’ they respond, ‘How can we abandon it? We cannot survive without it.’

What could be more unfortunate than the fact that they rely on falsehood as their support?” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, pp.

349-350)

‘Allah is the Master of all powers.’

During his Friday Sermon, delivered on 13 September 2024, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, said: “I continuously remind you to focus on prayers; give it your utmost attention. May Allah the Almighty strengthen our faith, and protect every Ahmadi, in every country, whether they are in Bangladesh, Pakistan, or elsewhere, from all forms of evil, and may He also safeguard the world. The fire into which the world is falling, and into which it is hurrying so swiftly, may God save the world from it. May Allah have mercy. Allah is the Master of all powers. If these people still turn towards reformation, Allah can deliver them from their difficulties. May

Image: Library

Allah grant them understanding.” [Amin]

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َ� ُ َ ۡ ٰ َ ُ ُ �ٰ ُ َ� ُ �َ ‫ۤۡیا �ۡی َِہا اَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡ َۡن ٰا َ​َمُنوا ا�ﻘوا الّٰل َِہ َ​َّوُکوْۡنوۡا َ​َمٌع ا �َّلﺼ ِ​ِدﻗِۡی‬ “O ye who believe! fear Allah and be with the truthful.” (Surah at-Taubah, Ch.9: V.119) This verse serves as a clear directive for believers to align themselves with truth in all aspects of life. Truthfulness is not merely a moral choice but a divine command that leads to righteousness and piety.

The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa highlighted the gravity of lying and said:

َ� َْ َ ُْ َ ُْ ،ِ‫ َ​َّو ِإ �َن اَّلَف َُج َوَر ۡیَ ِْہ ِ​ِدی ِإَّلَﻰ اَّلُناَر‬،ِ‫ِإ �َن اَّلﻜ ِ​ِذ َِّب ۡیَ ِْہ ِ​ِدی ِإَّلَﻰ اَّلَف َُجوَر‬ َ� َ َ� ْ ْ َ� ْ َ ‫ َ​َحﺘﻰ ۡیُﻜ َﺘ َﺐ َِعُن َِد الّٰل ِ​ِہ َکِذ ًاَبا‬،‫َ​َّو ِإ �َن ا �َّلﺮَ ُﺟ َِّل َّل َ َۡیﻜ ِ​ِذ ُِّب‬

“Falsehood leads to wickedness [alfujur], and wickedness leads to the Fire, and a man may keep on telling lies till he is written before Allah, a liar.” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al-adab, Hadith 6094)

Promised Messiah’sas teachings on truth Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, expounded on the critical role of truth in spiritual and moral development. He stated: “Today, the state of the world has become very precarious. From every aspect and in every form, one can observe falsehood: false witnesses are being produced, false cases are being filed, and

false certificates are being fabricated. When people speak on certain matters, they twist the truth [to suit their narrative].

“Now, one should ask those who do not recognise the need for this Jamaat whether this was the religion brought by the Holy Prophetsa. Allah the Exalted has declared falsehood to be filth, commanding us to avoid it:

ُ� َ َ َ ۡ ‫اﺟ َﺘُن ُْبوا ا �َّلﺮ ۡﺟ َﺲ َم َۡن اَلۡاَ َّۡوﺛَاَن َ​َّو‬ ِ ۡ ‫َف‬ ِ ِ‫اﺟﺘ ُِن ُْبوۡا ﻗوۡ َِل اَّلﺰ َّۡوَر‬ ِ ِ

“[‘Shun therefore the abomination of idols, and shun all words of untruth.’ (Surah al-Hajj, Ch. 22: V. 31)]. Here, falsehood has been equated with idolatry.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 8, p. 349) The Promised Messiahas emphasised that lying is a form of spiritual impurity that corrupts the soul and hinders one’s relationship with Allah. By adopting falsehood, individuals create metaphorical idols, relying on deceit rather than placing their trust in God.

Dajjal and modern disinformation Moreover, the Promised Messiahas has elucidated the concept of Dajjal (the Antichrist) in relation to falsehood and deception. He explained: “Let it be clear that the word dajjal has been interpreted in two ways: First is that dajjal signifies a group which supports falsehood and works with cunning and deceit. Second is that dajjal is the name

of Satan, who is the father of all falsehood and corruption.” (The Philosophy of Divine Revelation [Haqiqat-ul-Wahi], pp. 393394) The Promised Messiahas identified the Dajjal of the Latter Days as representing forces that propagate falsehood on a massive scale, leading people away from truth and righteousness. (Kitab-ul-Bariyyah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 13, pp. 252-253, footnote) The metaphor of Dajjal as a force of widespread deception is profoundly relevant in the context of today’s disinformation crisis.

As such, it is disheartening that, in the struggle for truth, many who oppose the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat also resort to fabrications and false narratives. By spreading unfounded allegations against the Promised Messiahas, they contribute to the very culture of deceit that endangers societal harmony, serving, knowingly or unknowingly, the forces of Dajjal.

Combating disinformation: An ethical responsibility The pervasive spread of falsehood erodes trust, causes personal harm, incites political and social unrest, and destabilises economies by fostering fraud and undermining cooperation.

In the face of these challenges, it becomes imperative for individuals and communities to actively combat the spread of falsehoods. Islamic teachings provide clear guidance on this matter: • Verification of information: The Holy

Quran instructs believers to verify news before accepting or acting upon it:

َ ۤ ُ َ َ ۢ َ ۡ ُ َ َ ۡ ۤۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َ � َ ُ � َ ۤ ‫اُس ٌﻖ َِبُن َْب ٍا َف َﺘ َْب �َۡیُنوۡا ا َۡن‬ ِ ‫ۡیاۡیِہا اَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡن اَمُنوا ِاَن ﺟﺂٍءُکۡم َف‬ ٰ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ َ ٰ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ َ َ َ َ ًۢ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ َۡ �‫ِت ِﺼۡیْبوا ﻗوَما َِبَجِہاَّل ٍﺔ َفﺘﺼ ِْبَحوا َعٰلی َما َفَعۡلﺘۡم ْن ِ​ِد َِمۡی‬

“O ye who believe! if an unrighteous person brings you any news, ascertain [the correctness of the report] fully, lest you harm a people in ignorance, and then become repentant for what you have done.”

(Surah al-Hujurat, Ch.49: V.7) • Avoiding rumour-mongering: Spreading unverified information contributes to chaos and discord.

Muslims are encouraged to speak only when certain of the truth.

• Promoting truth and justice: Standing firmly for truth and justice, even if it goes against personal interests or those of close relatives, is a core Islamic principle:

�ٰ َ َ َ ُ ۡ ۡ َ ۡ �ٰ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َ� َ ُ� َ ۤ ‫ۡیاۡیِہا اَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡن اَمُنوا َکوْنوا ﻗو َِمۡی� َِباَّل ِﻘﺴ ِﻂ ﺷِہِد‬ ‫آٍء لِّٰل ِ​ِہ َ​َّوَّلَوۡ َ​َعٰلۤی‬ ۡ َ ُ َُۡ ۡ َۡ �َ ‫ا�َف ِﺴﻜ ۡ​ۡم ا َِّو اَّلوَاَّل َِ​ِدۡیۡ ِۡن َ​َّواَلۡا� َِر َِبۡی‬

“O ye who believe! be strict in observing justice, [and be] witnesses for Allah, even though it be against yourselves or [against] parents and kindred.” (Surah an-Nisa, Ch. 4: V.136)

The role of technology and media literacy While technology has facilitated the rapid Continued on next page >>

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The four types of Quranic miracles Physical, metaphysical and beyond Zafir Ahmad Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre

The Quran is an everlasting miracle unlike any that previous Prophets before Prophet Muhammadsa ever brought forth. For a Muslim, viewing the Quran as an eternal miracle is not a significant challenge.

However, a secular, irreligious person might have different criteria for what constitutes a miracle. Therefore, the Quran offers something at every level of human understanding, something that different individuals can recognise as a miracle.

The Promised Messiahas discussed the multiple dimensions of the Quranic miracle in his book Surma-e-Chashm-e-Arya.

Mentioning four, He writes: � ‫)زجعماتہیملع‬۲(‫)زجعماتعقل�یہ‬۱(‫”زجعماتاوروخارقرقرآیناچرمسقرپںیہ‬ ‫ن‬ “‫)زجعماترصتافتاخرہیج‬۴(‫)زجعمات �ربراکترواح��یه‬۳(

“The miracles and extraordinary signs of the Holy Quran are of four types: (1) Miracles related to intellect; (2) Miracles related to knowledge; (3) Miracles related to spiritual blessings; and (4) Miracles related to external causes.” (Surma-e-Chashme-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 60, footnote) Three of these four dimensions of the Quranic miracle are accessible to human understanding. The Promised Messiahas further explains: � ‫ دو و نیت ےک زجعمات وخاص ذاہیت رقرآن رشفی ںیم ےس ںیہ اور‬، ‫”ربمن اول‬ � � ‫�ت‬ ‫رہ ککی صخش اتازہ‬ ‫رہ ککی زامہن ںیم � ر‬ ‫اہنتی اعیل اشان اور دبیہی اوبثلت ںیہ نج وک � ر‬ � ‫ددید‬ � ‫اتبزہوطررپمشچ‬ ‫امرجرایکرطحدرای�اتفرکاتکسےہنکیلربمناچرےکزجعمات‬ � ‫ینعی رصتافت اخرہیج ہی ریبوین وخارق ںیہ نج وک رقرآن رشفی ےس ھچک ذایت‬ “‫قلعتںیہن‬ “The first three are miracles of the inherent qualities of the Holy Quran. They are grand miracles, and are manifestly evident. These can be witnessed as fresh and

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spread of misinformation, it can also be harnessed to combat it. Developing media literacy skills is crucial: • Critical evaluation: Individuals should critically assess the sources of information, checking the credibility and expertise of the originators.

• Responsible sharing: Before sharing content, especially on social media, verifying its authenticity can prevent the unintended spread of falsehoods.

• Awareness of biases: Understanding personal biases, helps in evaluating information objectively rather than accepting it.

visible realities in every era. However, the fourth type of miracles, i.e., those related to external causes, are extrinsic miracles, which are not inherently connected to the Holy Quran.” (Surma-e-Chashm-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 60, footnote) The intellectual, scientific, and spiritual miracles are within the scope of human capabilities to comprehend. However, the miracle that arises through external influences manifests solely through the omnipotence and will of God, with no human influence over this type of miracle.

This raises the question of how these four types of miracles are to be understood.

Before addressing this question, I would like to briefly explain the reason why these four types of miracles are mentioned.

Miracles in Islam serve various roles. The human mind cannot fully grasp God. Miracles are meant to present the power of God to humanity, making it clear that a supernatural phenomenon can only be caused by a superhuman being, namely, God. Mere belief in God does not elevate a person to a level of certainty about the divine existence. To attain certainty in the existence of God, belief must be accompanied by miracles.

Moreover, miracles play a crucial role in the authenticity of a Prophet. True prophethood requires miracles so that a Prophet can be recognised as a true Prophet. Every Prophet came with various miracles that confirmed his prophethood, demonstrating to people that this person is a Messenger of a superhuman being. The reason for the types of Quranic miracles lies in the fact that the achievements explored by humans reveal the hidden knowledge that was sent down in the Quran 1,400 years ago. This is a miracle characterised by an act that is impossible for a human to accomplish.

Now, I would like to provide an example to illustrate each of the four types of

The path forward Upholding truth in an age of misinformation is not merely a societal need but a spiritual obligation. By adhering to the principles laid out in Islamic teachings, individuals can contribute to a more truthful and just world. This involves a commitment to personal integrity, responsible consumption and dissemination of information, and active efforts to educate others about the importance of truthfulness.

As Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, has emphasised on numerous occasions, it is incumbent upon us as Ahmadis to lead by example in upholding truth. We can only hope to

Image: Canva

miracles. The first miracle, which pertains to intellect, was discussed by the Promised Messiahas as follows: � ‫ت‬ ‫”دخداےئاعتٰیلٰیکیتسہاوراخلق�ی�اوراسیکوتدیحاوردقرتاوررمحاورویقیم‬ ‫کتک‬ ‫�ت‬ ‫اور اجمزات وریغہ افصت یک انشتخ ےک ےئل اہجں عل�وم عقل�یہ اک قلعت ےہ‬

‫ادتسالیل رطقی وک اکلم وطر رپ اامعتسل ایک ےہ اور اس ادتسالل ےک نمض ںیم‬ � ‫ت ئ ت‬ ‫�ت‬ ‫تعت‬ � ‫البتغ و اصفتحت و عل�وم یعبط و‬ ‫دنهسه و‬ ‫ابطتب و ه�ی�� و د‬ ‫انص قطنم و ملع‬ ‫�ت‬ ‫داققئ فلسف�یه و رطقی �دجدل و انمرظہ وریغہ امتم عل�وم وک اہنتی فیطل و ومزوں‬

‫وطررپایبنایکےہسجےسارثکدقیقاسملئاکچیباتلھکےہ۔سپہیرطزایبنوج‬ “‫وفقااعلدتےہازمسقااجعزیلقعےہ‬ “One is [the door] of reason. The way of reasoning has been perfectly employed [in the Holy Quran] for the recognition of the existence of God, His attributes of Creation, Unity, Power, Compassion, Self-Subsistence, Master of the Day of Judgment, etc. In this context, the arts of logic, rhetoric, eloquence, natural sciences, medicine, astronomy, geometry, insightful philosophy, dialectics, and debate have been presented in the most subtle and

establish truth in the world if we embody it in our daily lives. The Holy Quran instructs us to speak words that are straight and just – qaul-e-sadid – particularly in matters such as matchmaking and marriage.

Truth should be the very foundation of trust that binds Ahmadi couples together.

Moreover, we must demonstrate to our children through our actions – not merely our words – that we are committed to truthfulness. By cultivating honesty within our homes, we lay the groundwork for peaceful households, which in turn contribute to a harmonious society.

While speaking on the standards of truthfulness expected of Ahmadis, Huzooraa once said: “Therefore, every Ahmadi [...] should

appropriate manner, solving many complex problems. These methods are extraordinary and are indeed miracles of reason.” (Surmae-Chashm-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 72, footnote) This statement asserts that the Holy Quran employs logical reasoning to recognise the existence of God and His attributes, such as creation, unity, power, mercy, and self-sustenance. It is remarkable that this logical reasoning in the Quran is flawless and utilises the aforementioned disciplines for the exalted purpose that no human had previously undertaken. The miracle lies in the fact that the Quran’s statements about the existence of God and His attributes are so comprehensive that they cannot be surpassed. No one can present a new argument that the Quran has not already included.

For instance, the Quran invites us to observe creation and search for any flaws Continued on page 5 >>

also wage a jihad [struggle] against falsehood. Make yourselves so truthful that people around you can never point a finger at you, saying, ‘At such and such a time, you said something in which there was some falsehood.’ Every single word you utter, every thought, and every expression should be filled with truthfulness. An Ahmadi [...] should be an exemplar of honesty. The calibre of your truthfulness should impress everyone to such an extent that each person, closing their eyes and without a second thought, trusts your every word. They should not feel the need to consider that you might ever speak untruthfully.” (Address at Jalsa Salana Germany, 27 August 2005, www.youtube. com)

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Friday 20 September 2024 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History

A glimpse into the rich history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

20 - 26 September 20 September 1952: On this day, Al Fazl published Hazrat Muslehe-Maud’sra article, which he wrote upon request from The Sindh Muslim Government Law College for their quarterly magazine “Pakistan Law Review”. Huzoor’sra article was entitled “Pakistan me qaanoon ka mustaqbil” – The Future of Law in Pakistan, and was published in the August 1952 issue of the magazine.

For more details, see “Promises made to minorities when Pakistan was created must be fulfilled: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s guidance for Pakistani laws” at alhakam.org (20 May 2022, p. 7).

20 September 1986: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh laid the foundation stone of the first mosque in Mississauga, the Baitul Islam Mosque. (Silsila Ahmadiyya, Vol. 4, p. 839) 21 September 1948: On this day, Al Fazl published Hazrat Muslehe-Maud’sra article that he wrote upon the demise of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.

In this article, Huzoorra advised the people of Pakistan to fulfil the good wishes of Mr Jinnah instead of becoming anxious upon his death. (Daily Al Fazl, Lahore, 21 September 1948, pp. 3-4)

(Majmu‘ah-e-Ishtiharat Vol. 2, pp. 17-40)

[2019],

22 September 1929: On this day, a German newspaper, Auer Tageblatt: Anzeiger für das Erzgebirge, wrote: [Translation] “In Europe, Mirza Ghulam Ahmed[as] began the missionary activities for Mohammedanism [sic., Islam] about thirty years ago. Mosques sprang up in Paris, London, Gent, Heidelberg, and Berlin. […] The London headquarters of Mohammedanism report that they have won over a thousand ‘enlightened’ Englishmen.”

For more details, see “Islam Ahmadiyyat echoes in early 1900s German newspapers” at alhakam. org (1 September 2023, p. 14).

22 September 1982: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh arrived in Scotland, where renowned orientalist Montgomery Watt had a meeting with him. (Silsila Ahmadiyya, Vol. 4, p. 817)

Sean Barrett TD, Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, Dublin, Ireland. 24th September 2014

22 September 2022: On this day, the US House of Representatives introduced a resolution (H. Res. 1389) welcoming Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa to the United States.

The resolution recognised his commitment to world peace, justice, global unity, nonviolence, rejection of extremism, eradication of poverty, service to humanity, universal human rights, international religious freedom, and democracy. Huzooraa was scheduled to visit from 26 September to 17 October 2022, during which he would inaugurate two new mosques: Fath-e-Azeem

Mosque in Zion, Illinois, and Baitul-Ikram Mosque in Allen, Texas.

(Congressional Record, Vol. 168, No. 153) 23 September 1983: During the tour of Fiji, on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh delivered a lecture at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, on “Ahmadiyyat and the Philosophy of Revival of Religions.”

(Silsila Ahmadiyya, Vol. 4, p. 826) This lecture was later published in book form under the title: Revival of Religion. To read the text of this important work, visit: www.alislam.

21 September 1985: During the tour of Germany, on this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh addressed a press conference in Berlin and then visited the Berlin Wall. A press conference was also held in Munich on 25 September.

(Silsila Ahmadiyya, Vol. 4, p. 836) 22 September 1895: The Promised Messiahas endeavoured his utmost to revamp the style of religious debates being conducted in British India. On this day, he issued a tract on the above-mentioned topic, carrying the supporting signatures of hundreds of influential Muslims.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivers the keynote address at the reception given in Singapore, 26 September 2013

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org/book/revival-of-religion/.

24 September 2014: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa visited the National Parliament of Ireland, the Oireachtas, at Leinster House in Dublin. More than 20 parliamentarians welcomed Huzooraa to Ireland. Following his meeting with the parliamentarians, Huzooraa was escorted to the galleries of both the Lower and the Upper Houses of Parliament, where he observed the parliamentary proceedings. (“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Visits Irish National Parliament”, www. pressahmadiyya.com) 25 September 1927: On this day, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra granted an audience to the aggrieved Muslims of Shimla at Kingsley. This joint session of Ahmadi and non-Ahmadi Muslims was held to establish the Jami‘at-ulIkhwan, the idea of which was proposed

by Huzoorra himself during a lecture on 11 September. On this occasion, Huzoorra delivered a speech as well.

For more details of Huzoor’s engagements, see “Coming from every distant track: Sarojini Naidu and other dignitaries meet with Hazrat Musleh-eMaud in Shimla to promote peace and harmony” at alhakam.org (10 February 2023, p. 7).

26 September 1997: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh delivered a Friday Sermon in Whitehorse, Yukon, during his North American tour.

Whitehorse, located in the Yukon, is one of the northernmost regions of Canada, close to the Arctic Circle.

(Khutbat-e-Tahir, Vol. 16, p. 707) 26 September 2013: On this day, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered the keynote address at a reception held in his honour at the Oriental Mandarin Hotel in Singapore. The event was attended by more than 100 non-Ahmadi dignitaries and guests, including Mr Lee Koon Choy, a founding member of the People’s Action Party. During his keynote address, Huzooraa explained the basis for a just economy, the need for equity between nations, the reasons behind the misrepresentation of Islam, and his concerns about the increasing risk of a Third World War. (“Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community delivers Historic Address in Singapore”, www. pressahmadiyya.com)

or inconsistencies. It argues that none will be found, pointing to a perfect Creator: “No incongruity can you see in the creation of the Gracious God. Then look again: Do you see any flaw? Yes, look again, and yet again, your sight will return to you confused and fatigued.” (Surah al-Mulk, Ch.67: V.4-5) This is an example of how the Quran seeks to prove the existence and perfection of God through observation and logical deduction.

Now, I would like to mention the second gate of the Quranic miracle. The Promised Messiahas writes the following: � � ‫”��وهاسےکرقرآنرشفی�اتا�د�ںیماوراورعل�ومےس�ااجعزى‬ � ‫ئ‬ � ‫ن‬ ‫وطر رپ دخد� یل ےہ اور قطنم اور یعبط اور � اور ه�ی�� اور ملع � اور‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ن‬ � � � � � ‫دنهسه اور ملع البتغ و‬ ‫اصفتخ وریغہ عل�وم ےک و�لئ ےس ملع‬ ‫ابطتی اور ملع د‬ � � ‫ن‬ ‫ن‬ � ‫ا‬ ‫د�اک‬ ‫�اتاورذ��رکاتا یاتااساک � ی�در�دبر�آ�نرکد� یاتااسرپ‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ن‬ ‫رکات یاتااسےس�اتاداناکا�اضا�اتا��ر�ےہ�ض‬ ‫وک� �ربر�اناق� ا‬ � � ‫عل ن‬ � ‫�وطررپہی‬ ‫� �ومدخد�د�ےکےئل�راخرقاعدترقرآنرشفی‬ ‫ںیم اس � رطز ےس �ے �ےئ ںیہ نج ےس �رہر یاکی در� اک ذ� اف�ه‬ “‫ا�اتکسےہ‬ “In this regard, it [the Quran] has utilised logic, physics, philosophy, astronomy, psychology, medicine, mathematics, and rhetoric for the elucidation and explanation of the knowledge of faith, to facilitate its understanding, to establish a conclusion, or to refute the objections of some ignorant individuals. In short, all these subjects are presented in the Holy Quran in an extraordinary manner for the service of faith, so that every level of intellect can benefit from them.” (Surma-e-Chashme-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 75, footnote) The miracle in this domain lies in the fact that the cognitive achievements sought by humans and the knowledge gained from various scientific disciplines do not contradict what Allah has laid out in the Quran. Instead, these sciences aid in the understanding of divine teachings and serve as tools for reflecting on the nature of God. That is to say, the sciences of logic, physics, philosophy, astronomy, psychology, medicine, mathematics, and rhetoric are means to better perceive religious matters.

Islam calls upon people to reflect in these areas of knowledge.

Islam encourages believers to seek knowledge. God made the recognition of Him obligatory through the acquisition of knowledge.

ُ َ ٌ َ َ َ� َ� ُ َ َ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ� َ ْ َ َ َ� ‫ۡیﺰ ﻏَف ٌوَر‬ �ِ � ‫إِْنْما ۡیﺨﺸﻰ الّٰلِہ َِمۡن َِعْبا ِ​ِد ِٖہ اَّلَعۡلْماٍء إَِن الّٰلِہ‬

“Only those of His servants who possess knowledge fear Allah.” (Surah Fatir, Ch.35: V.29) Faith combined with worldly knowledge strengthens the belief in God. Everything that God revealed in the Quran 1400 years ago is corroborated by modern scientific discoveries. Certainly, I would exceed the scope of my article if I were to mention the Quranic miracles in every field of science.

I recommend readers to refer to the book by the Promised Messiahas titled Purani Tahreerain (Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2), where he uses the science of logic to provide evidence regarding the existence of God. Certainly, the question arises that a person cannot master or even encompass all sciences. So why does the Quran make use of all these scientific disciplines? The

Promised Messiahas provided the following answer to this question: ‫رہ ی‬ “‫کیدر�اکذ�اف�ها�اتکسےہ‬ ‫”سجےس � ر‬ “Thus, every level of intellect can benefit from them.” (Surma-e-Chashm-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 75, footnote) Certainly, a person cannot master all sciences in depth at the same time. However, the diversity of human intellect necessitates that the Quran presents scientific miracles for every type of human understanding.

Regarding the third type of Quranic miracle, we should understand that it is a spiritual miracle. The Promised Messiahas writes: � � � ‫ی‬ ‫�تی‬ �‫”�ادروازہ�تفا���اکوجرقرآنرشفیںیما��اشاہن�ا‬ � “‫اخصےس�لر�ےہ �ربراکترواح�ںیہسجوکااجعزاتا�ى�اچ�۔‬

“The third gateway to the recognition of the Divine that the Holy Quran has opened, through God’s special grace, is the door of spiritual blessings, which can be referred to as its miracle of effect.” (Surma-e-Chashme-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 76, footnote) This spiritual miracle can still be observed and experienced both collectively and individually. Historically, it was clearly manifested during the era of Prophet Muhammadsa. He came to an uneducated people—a nation that enslaved the weak and glorified the esteemed, where the worship of idols was as normal as breathing. The life of the Arabs at that time was so primitive that indulgence in sexual immorality, drinking, gambling, and other vices was commonplace. Theft, murder, and other crimes were not considered sinful. Yet, within a short period, the Arabs embraced Islam and underwent profound spiritual transformations. Their hearts were changed by the spiritual power of the divine

Qur’anic word and the company of the Prophetsa. They were willing to give up their homeland, their loved ones, their honour, and their comfort to gain the pleasure of Allah. Where did this change come from?

This transformation was brought about by the powerful effect of the divine word and the holy influence of the Prophet, which led this nation from darkness into light—a miracle unmatched by any other book in the world.

All three of these mentioned miracles have a direct connection with the Quran and are tied to the intensity of human effort.

The fourth miracle, however, has no direct connection to the Quran but is dependent on the will of God. The Quran, however, opens the way for this type of miracle in its own manner. God has shown miracles, such as the miracle of the “splitting of the moon”, and He is capable of showing such miracles.

But these miracles cannot be summoned by human effort; only God knows how and when He will show a miracle. The Promised Messiahas said: � ‫�ن‬ ‫”ا� وخ� اور � و �ل رقرآن رشفی اک � ی�وں مسق ےک زجعمات ےس‬ �‫ن‬ �‫ن‬ ‫وا�ےہ� �رہر ی‬ ‫اکی�ما���اکیہی�انا�ےہ�ہی ی�وںمسقےکزجعمات‬ � ٰ�‫� دقر اس ںیم ات�اےئ �� اور رقرآن رشفی ںیم وت ہی �رہر � مسق ےک ااجعز ا‬ � �‫وا�وا�وطررپات�اےئ��ںیہاوراںیہنوکرقرآنرشفیا���وام‬ � “‫رکاتےہ۔‬ ‫��ےکا�تںیمات�ارات�ار� ا‬ “The true excellence and beauty of the Holy Quran is associated with the first three types of miracles. Indeed, this is the great sign of all Divine words that these three types of miracles are found within them to some degree. In the Holy Quran, these three types of miracles are found in the highest, most perfect, and most complete form, and the Holy Quran repeatedly presents them as proof of its uniqueness and unparalleled nature.” (Surma-e-Chashm-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 60, footnote)

Waqf-e-Nau ijtema held in Benin Mirza Farhan Ahmad Baig Benin Correspondent

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin held its Waqfe-Nau ijtema on 24-25 August 2024.

The event commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem and speeches by Mian Qamar Ahmad Sahib, Missionary-in-Charge, and Raoufou Maliki Sahib, Naib Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin. The session concluded with a silent prayer.

The members then attentively watched Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa live address delivered at the Lajna session of the Jalsa Salana Germany 2024. Subsequently, academic competitions were held. After the Zuhr and Asr prayers and lunch, the afternoon session began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem and a speech by Luqman Daouda Sahib.

Following the conclusion of this session, sports competitions were held.

After the Maghrib and Isha prayers and dinner, an exam on the Waqf-e-Nau syllabus was conducted.

The second day of the ijtema began with congregational Tahajjud prayer, followed

by Fajr prayer and a dars. Later, with the assistance of Humanity First doctors, a medical examination of all Waqf-e-Nau members was conducted by Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Sahib.

The closing session began at 10:50am, presided over by Amir Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Benin, with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a poem and ijtema report by myself as the Secretary Waqf-e-Nau of Jamaat Benin. Amir Sahib then distributed prizes to the members who excelled in various competitions.

In his concluding speech, Amir Sahib recounted the history of the establishment of Tahrik-e-Waqf-e-Nau and advised all members to become devoted servants of Allah by fulfilling their vow of waqf. The ijtema concluded with a silent prayer.

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Friday 20 September 2024 | AL HAKAM

Can Starmer’s Labour finally solve Britain’s biggest problems?

Faran Ahmad Shaheen UK

Over two months ago, the momentous electoral victory of the Labour Party fired the pistol on its race to change Britain. Let’s reflect on the state of Britain under the new Labour Government.

New actions taken to revive Britain: The justice system, healthcare, public spending, migration and foreign policy With the country in its worst domestic situation since the Second World War, the new Prime Minister Keir Starmer has focused his recent speeches on highlighting how the first major change of his administration was the return of integrity to politics and government being brought back into the service of the people.

Starmer has emphasised the broken justice system and his government’s commitment to building more prisons to ensure a safer society. He claims the figures regarding prisons were far worse than he had anticipated.

Regarding the economy and public spending, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has promised an immediate comprehensive assessment of the country’s public finances as the first step to tackling the long list of economic issues faced by the public. She aims to identify how to strengthen public services through investment and their policies on taxation. All eyes will be on her when she presents the review before Parliament, in addition to the budget expected to be announced later this year.

The Treasury has also created a National Wealth Fund in order to grow the economy by unlocking investment to support thousands of jobs for people.

Within the health department, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has promised an independent probe into the state of the NHS. He has pledged to begin working to cut NHS waiting lists and has started successful negotiations with members of the British Medical Association, adopting a more realistic and optimistic tone that, while they can’t agree to the current proposed pay rise, they can work to find a middle ground and come to an agreement soon.

Regarding reducing the levels of net migration and stopping the boats reaching the Channel, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced the axing of the previous controversial Rwanda Scheme under the Conservative government, with people now intrigued to see how Starmer’s government addresses this crucial issue.

Cooper has also announced the Home Office has started work on establishing the new Border Security Command designed to tackle the criminal smuggling gangs.

The Government has begun holding talks with water companies to hold them to account on sewage dumping and has set out the first steps for cleaning British Waters.

The Energy Security and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband made a significant announcement regarding lifting the onshore wind ban which was in place for the last nine years, aiming to make Britain a clean energy superpower and cutting bills.

The issue of the revised extent of the British relationship with the European Union will likely find its way to the top of the Government’s agenda, with Starmer hoping to negotiate a better deal with the EU than under Boris Johnson. Starmer’s background as an ardent remainer may play in his favour during future negotiations.

In regard to devolution, Starmer has always been a firm advocate for more power going up north to other regions in the UK rather than simply staying concentrated in Whitehall. Starmer backed his commitments through meeting with regional mayors at Downing Street to set out the major plans for greater devolved powers to drive growth across Britain.

Furthermore, with more prominent mayors such as Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham being labour and of the same party of the government, it has encouraged far more united and constructive discussions in contrast to the previous government which arguably focused more on political divisiveness and competition with labourrun areas.

Starmer’s foreign policy looks to be similar to that of his predecessors despite the change of government. By immediately sending the new Defence Secretary John Heely to Ukraine to meet President Zelensky, he set the tone that the UK, under the new government, remains as committed as ever to backing Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Attending a NATO Summit shortly after assuming office is one of the best honeymoons to global politics a Prime Minister could hope for, with Starmer holding successful meetings with US President Joe Biden in the Oval Office, affirming the ‘Special Relationship,’ and meeting with the leaders of other NATO countries.

Regarding Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, Labour has called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the creation of a Palestinian State. At odds with the Conservatives, they have gone much further regarding Britain’s compliance with foreign and international laws and treaties.

For example, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said in the past that Labour would accept the verdict of the ICC if it issues an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Furthermore, Starmer has been clear that his government would follow the European Convention on Human Rights

Image: Library

and other foreign conventions to which the UK is a signatory, emphasizing the need for the UK to strengthen its position on the world stage and its partnership with other countries. This represents a major change in attitude from his predecessor Rishi Sunak, who repeatedly affirmed his commitment to breaking such conventions in order to prioritize British national security in his view.

The first few months for this Labour Government have undoubtedly been hectic and testing, especially as seen with the problems caused by the riots and issues with prisons, with the electorate desperate for solutions to be enacted.

Political apathy: Genuine public discontentment with politics Despite the magnitude of the Labour victory in the General Election, it is important not to overlook the concerning levels of political apathy in the UK. This has been highlighted through various results, with two issues particularly at the forefront.

Firstly, the voter turnout was considerably low, reported to be at 59.9%, just 0.5% ahead of the lowest-ever UK general election turnout of 59.4% in 2001. (“Voter turnout at general election was lowest since 2001 – politics live as it happened”, www.theguardian.com) A great number of people have become disillusioned with politics, exacerbated by a record number of political scandals that

have destroyed trust in the government and politicians, broken manifesto pledges such as on the levelling up agenda, new hospitals, Sunak’s controversial scrapping of the northern leg of HS2, and foreign policy regarding the war in Gaza.

Secondly, the vote share. Labour’s vote share didn’t seem reflective of their massive majority, being only 34% while holding 63% of the seats in Parliament. (“General election 2024 in maps and charts”, www. bbc.co.uk) Interestingly, this was hardly much of a contrast to Labour’s vote share in 2019, one of their worst electoral defeats, at 32.1%. (Ibid.) The two main parties together didn’t seem to mount much support, with third parties such as the Liberal Democrats gaining substantial public support.

Independent candidates, particularly those focusing on the Gaza War, split the Labour vote, while Reform UK split the Conservative vote in many constituencies, preventing a significant number of votes from going to the two major parties.

Altogether, the vote share and the huge support for third parties perfectly illustrate the low enthusiasm the British public has shown towards a Labour government. In British politics, it has often been the case that it is the government that loses the election rather than the opposition that wins. One may cite the 1997 General Election as an exception, but analysts argue that Blair’s revitalised ‘New Labour’ was massively helped by the Conservatives being tired and devoid of ideas after nearly two decades in

AL HAKAM | Friday 20 September 2024 government. In the years leading up to this election during Johnson’s tenure as Prime Minister, Labour suffered major losses in local elections and by-elections such as Hartlepool, which even made Starmer consider resigning as leader. It was only after Partygate, the mini-budget, and other scandals that the Tories started plummeting in the polls, giving Labour a chance to benefit greatly from Conservative errors.

Starmer’s exceptionally safe campaign, without promising enough creative policies and being seen as more reserved in debates, played a role in Labour’s victory.

Calls to replace the First-Past-The-Post System have been reignited, especially as the system has exaggerated Labour’s majority in the face of the public popular vote. A notable point is that 14% of the vote share went to Reform UK (who only won 5 seats), while the Liberal Democrats had a lower vote share at 12% yet won 72 seats. (Ibid) This disparity has greatly damaged the credibility of the First Past the Post system, allowing the public to rightly question whether the system is truly democratic in representing the public’s desire.

Britain waved goodbye to another historical period of Conservative domination The Conservatives under David Cameron in 2010 won the general election following a hung parliament, securing victory but at what is now regarded as a painful cost by entering a coalition with the Liberal Democrats. The coalition period from 2010 to 2015 was highly divisive for the government, with increasing disagreements and gridlock on issues such as tuition fees.

While supporters and members of the coalition government may claim success in modernizing Britain socially, as seen through initiatives such as the Big Society (aimed at strengthening community engagement with different social groups), their legislative victories were overshadowed by a series of austerity cuts in successive budgets, leading to the controversial downgrading of public services such as the NHS. The question of British integration into Europe, an issue that had beleaguered previous governments, resurfaced with the help of Cameron’s disgruntled backbenchers. Although Cameron won a surprising majority in the 2015 UK General Election, the 2016 EU Referendum verdict for Britain to leave the European Union led to his resignation amid a highly divided British society, especially given that 52% of Brits voted to leave while 48% voted to remain.

With the country and the Conservative Party in disarray over Brexit divisions, Theresa May won the leadership contest to replace Cameron and became Prime Minister. Initially, she demonstrated a robust performance at her first PMQs against Jeremy Corbyn and installed proleave campaigners in her cabinet, such as Boris Johnson as Foreign Secretary.

This seemed to form a united front and a confident start to governing. However, her nearly three-year tenure was marked by failure to negotiate an adequate Brexit deal with the European Union, compounded by a disappointing 2017 General Election result, which saw the Conservatives lose their majority in a hung parliament. They

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entered a painful coalition once more, this time with 10 DUP MPs, at the expense of £1.3 billion worth of public funds promised to the Northern Ireland Executive. With growing impatience in the Conservative Party over May’s inability to secure an adequate agreement with Brussels, she announced her resignation in mid-2019.

Delivering Brexit became the top priority for her successor. Boris Johnson, the next to enter Number 10, found delivering a Brexit deal equally challenging as he suffered a series of legislative defeats in just one week in the House of Commons. However, in a politically astute move, he called a General Election in December 2019, running on a bold manifesto promising to get his ‘oven-ready’ Brexit deal passed through the Commons, along with key domestic policy pledges including greater investment in public services and the new “levelling up” agenda designed to reduce disparities between the North and South of England.

His efforts resulted in winning a significant 80-seat majority, allowing the deal to pass through the Commons and Article 50, the mechanism by which Britain officially left the European Union, to be triggered at last after numerous agonizing years.

However, the Covid-19 pandemic and the government’s lack of preparedness fuelled public anger. Although the national vaccine program was pivotal in neutralizing some public discontent, it was soon overshadowed by a series of scandals such as Partygate and shocking issues regarding the morality of the government involving Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher. The Conservative Party once again demonstrated its ruthlessness by turning on its leader, with Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid resigning, followed by over 50 resignations from members of the government in the next few days. With Johnson gradually acknowledging his fate, the contest for his successor began, with the hope that things could only get better.

Liz Truss was handed the reins of PM but recklessly pursued a mini-budget that included 45-billion of unfunded tax cuts, causing economic turmoil and bringing her record-breaking 45-day premiership to a miserable end. Rishi Sunak then won the leadership, having been elected by roughly half of his party, and entered Number 10, promising a return of integrity to politics.

Ironically, within less than a year, he lost his Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab over bullying allegations and Conservative Party Chairman and former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi due to an HMRC investigation into his taxes. Sunak also failed to deliver on most of his five pledges, with issues such as controlling immigration and NHS waiting lists particularly vexing. The sacking of Home Secretary Suella Braverman and the resignation of Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick over unprecedentedly high levels of net migration into the UK left Sunak with a party divided and at war with the right wing.

With numerous disastrous back-to-back local election defeats, by-election losses, Tory defections to Labour, and embarrassing blunders in the general election campaign (such as Sunak leaving D-Day celebrations early for campaigning and the Tory betting scandal), Sunak inflicted further damage on the Party and its credibility than Liz Truss, leading to one of the worst-ever defeats

in a general election. History has always shown that the Conservatives have lost government due to the same factors: a weak economy, failing public services, scandals, and party divisions. However, this time, these problems occurred on an unparalleled scale.

Islamic guidance on the approach to governing In the book written by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, ‘I Solemnly pledge’, Huzooraa places emphasis on how leaders of any nation or organization should govern.

It is mentioned that the Holy Prophetsa said to the leaders, “Your high morals will manifest themselves when you will consider yourselves to be the servants of the nation and when you will serve the public with all your capabilities and capacities.” (I Solemnly Pledge [2019], p. 72) It is further mentioned that the Holy Prophetsa said that the leader of a nation is, in fact, its servant. And the Promised Messiahas said that to be in the service of the nation is a sign of being one who is a leader.

(Ibid., p. 73) Huzooraa states that:

“No officer is appointed to a service with the view of becoming an officer; rather, in Islam the concept of an office-bearer is quite different. The Holy Prophetsa has explained it so, ‘The leader of a people is their servant.’

For an office-bearer to discharge his trust with respect to people is his being a servant to the nation. This condition is created in man when he has the spirit of sacrifice in him. He is humble and meek. The standard of his patience is higher than others … The office-bearers can evaluate their own selves as to how high and to what extent is the level of their forbearance. What is the extent of their humbleness.” (Ibid., p. 72) These golden words of wisdom set the perfect guidelines for how politicians should adopt the correct mindset and intentions to serve the people with, for in turn a sincere attitude enables them to perform actions which benefit the people they serve.

For far too long, we have seen countless examples of politicians all across the globe who have thought only of their self-centred campaigns whilst ignoring the needs of their constituencies and their nation. Let us hope and pray that this new government delivers on the correct attitude and change which it has so boldly promised.

Ride4Peace: Cycling from Glasgow to Islamabad Arshad Mehmood Khan Scotland Correspondent

Majlis Ansarullah UK’s cycling tour across Europe aims to promote peace, harmony, and respect. This year, the campaign began from Glasgow on the early morning of 5 September 2024, heading towards Islamabad, UK. 20 cyclists from across the UK participated, cycling 600 miles in six days.

A day prior, Majlis Ansarullah Scotland hosted a reception for the riders at the Baitur Rahman Mosque, Glasgow. The event drew politicians, interfaith leaders, Police Scotland, and friends of the Jamaat, attended by 60 guests in total.

The event started with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a brief

introduction of the event by Ahmad Owusu Konadu Sahib, chairman of Beacon of Peace Scotland. An introductory video about Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya was played, followed by an introduction to Majlis Ansarullah UK Cycling Club tours. The guests who spoke at the event, included Cllr Gordon Pryde of Scottish Labour, Councillor for Dunfermline North; Cllr Philp Braat of Scottish Labour, Councillor for Anderston/ City/Yorkhill ward; and Commander Dave Pinder of the Royal Navy in Scotland. The concluding address was delivered by Hafiz Ijaz Ahmad Sahib, Chairman of Majlis Ansarullah UK Cycling Club, followed by a vote of thanks from Dr Abdul Hayee Sahib, Regional Amir of Scotland. The event concluded with a silent prayer.

Image: AMJ UK

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Friday 20 September 2024 | AL HAKAM

100 Accounts of 1924: Caliph’s response to

Years Ago... Maulvi Nematullah Khan’s martyrdom Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira (1875-1957)

Huzoor’s[ra] health and external factors

Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib[ra] and Chaudhry Muhammad Sharif BA Sahib[ra], went to the Turkish embassy to preach the message of Ahmadiyyat. Although the Turkish ambassador himself was not present, his deputy was, and he was introduced to the teachings of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

The ambassador was already aware of the turmoil caused by apostasy in India.

The deputy enquired about the method of electing the Ahmadiyya Khilafat. When he was informed about the prophecies regarding the spread of the Ahmadiyya community in Europe and other Western countries, including the establishment of an Ahmadi [spiritual] empire, he was naturally surprised. He asked how long it would take for Islam to spread in the West. Based on the writings of the Promised Messiah, peace be on him, he was told that it would take around three centuries for this prophecy to fully manifest.

In this way, the message of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat was clearly conveyed to him. The Turkish embassy treated the missionaries with great respect and courtesy, and on 7 September 1924, they even attended the formal “At-Home” gathering held in Putney.

By the end of the second week, the health of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] was not good due to illness […]. In addition, extensive work took a heavy toll, and Huzoor[ra] could not even go outside for taking fresh air.

It had become routine for him to remain occupied until 1 or 2am.

These external factors were already present when, on 3 September 1924, a telegram arrived from Qadian conveying the news of the martyrdom of Maulvi Nematullah Khan Sahib, a missionary in Kabul. This tragic news naturally worsened Huzoor’s[ra] condition. However, he forgot his own illness, deeply disturbed by the cruel attack by the Afghan government that had taken the life of the Ahmadi missionary.

His distress was a reflection of the deep love and bond the Khalifa has with his followers and the devoted members of the Jamaat.

Undoubtedly, the news of Maulvi Nematullah Khan Sahib’s painful death was heart-wrenching, but the life and status he attained through his sacrifice are truly enviable.

On the night of 4 September 1924, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] remained awake and seated until 2 late into the night.

His health was so frail that words could hardly describe it. However, after offering the Maghrib and Isha prayers, Huzoor[ra] listened to the recitation of the Holy Quran by Hafiz Sahib[ra]. Maulvi Abdur Rahim Sahib Dard[ra] also recited a poem of Huzoor[ra], as well as a poem by Syeda Nawab Mubaraka Begum Sahiba[ra]. The poem written for the Paighamis, [i.e., those who did not take the bai‘at of the second Khalifa], was also read out, which expressed the Khalifa’s unshakeable faith, trust in Allah, and absolute conviction of divine support.

[“An unreasonable excuse only proves the guilt.”]

The local newspapers have published so many remarkable articles about Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] that no Indian, whether a political reformer or a religious figure, has ever received such coverage.

Through this, the Ahmadiyya Jamaat has been fully introduced to the British public.

On Sunday, 7 September 1924, Maulvi Abdur Rahim Sahib Nayyar[ra] hosted an “At-Home” gathering, which was attended by a large number of English men and women, as well as Indian students. Among the attendees were members of the Turkish embassy and some other distinguished Muslims who have been practising medicine or law here for many years. Journalists and photographers were also present.

The newspapers the next day published reports about this gathering, and some even included photos of His Holiness.

Answering questions of an Indian student

Protest against the Afghan government

Dialogue with the Turkish embassy officials

During this time, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] also answered questions from an Indian student. These activities were meant to divert his mind, but time and again, his thoughts would return to the same centre of concern, [i.e., the martyrdom of Maulvi Nematullah Khan Sahib]. As of today, 10 September 1924, that same intensity of concern remains.

A protest gathering against the Afghan government’s brutal action was planned for 16 September 1924. (This jalsa eventually took place on 18 September and news of this gathering was published in the 25 September 1924 issue of Al Fazl.) Some well-intentioned people in the area were independently working to organise this event, which aimed to raise a voice of protest against the Afghan government’s actions.

This protest was crucial because it condemned the violation of freedom of thought and conscience. On one hand, freedom of conscience is considered a

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] had an extended conversation with the Turkish embassy officials, during which various questions about the Ahmadiyya community were asked. Huzoor[ra] provided answers to all of them. These questions were asked with the intent to learn more about the Jamaat, and all the officials met Huzoor[ra] with great respect and warmth. They stayed with him until the end of the meeting.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud[ra] clearly explained the claims of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas and discussed the differences between mainstream Muslim

Preaching to the Turkish ambassador On 4 September 1924, after the Asr prayer,

Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan[ra] and the Afghan embassy Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahib[ra], moved by his deep faith, wrote a letter in English to the Afghan embassy in response to the martyrdom of the Ahmadi missionary in Kabul. In the letter, he expressed strong disapproval of the Afghan government’s cruel act, and reminded them of the warning in the Holy Quran regarding the killing of a believer. It was natural for the Afghan embassy to be unsettled by this letter, and their response confirmed the saying: �‫ان‬ ‫� ت‬ ‫ذعر اوقعملاث �اتبیمدنکازلامرا‬

basic human right, yet on the other hand, a government commits such a grave injustice by mercilessly stoning a person to death solely due to differences of religious beliefs.

beliefs and the teachings of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

The Ahmadiyya Movement and the British public

Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyar Sahib[ra] delivered the opening speech with great sincerity and passion. In his speech, he highlighted the purpose of the Khalifa’s visit and the challenges and obstacles faced by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in spreading its message.

Following this, Mr Janjua gave an enthusiastic speech, after which Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] was requested to deliver his message to the people of Europe.

Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahib[ra] then aptly presented the message of the Khalifa.

The audience was deeply moved, and they listened to the message of love with great attention and affection.

Opening speech

Speech by Mr Das Gupta After the message of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra], Mr Das Gupta, a well-known figure among the public and the Secretary of the East and West Union, delivered an impassioned speech. He announced the martyrdom of the Ahmadi missionary in Kabul and proposed that a protest gathering should be held regarding this incident.

He added, “I am a Hindu, but this act is a violation of freedom of conscience. It is the duty of every person to raise their voice against it.” He then asked the audience, “If you agree with me, please raise your hands.”

Everyone in attendance raised their hands, and 16 September was set as the date for the protest gathering. (As mentioned above, the jalsa took place on 18 September 1924.)

– Yaqub Ali Irfani (Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 8 October 1924 issue of Al Fazl)

AL HAKAM | Friday 20 September 2024

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Friday Sermon Mubarak Mosque, Islamabad, Tilford, UK

23 August 2024 Jalsa Salana Germany 2024 After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

Alhamdulillah [All praise belongs to Allah], the Jalsa Salana in Germany is commencing today. The Jamaat members in Germany wished for me to attend the Jalsa. However, man is bound by human necessities, of which health is one aspect. For this reason, on the dctor’s advice, the trip to Germany was cancelled at the last minute and it was suggested to partake in the Jalsa in Germany from here through MTA and to address the attendees of the Jalsa in Germany from here as well. Even this will transpire through the mere grace of Allah the Almighty. Pray that Allah the Almighty enables me [to do so].

This is also a favour of Allah the Almighty that among the inventions of this day and age, He has provided us with such means of communication. Many people wished for an audience and Allah the Almighty will create an opportunity for this at another time. Nevertheless, through this means, at least 60-70 percent participation in the Jalsa is fulfilled. Scenes from there will continuously be shown, insha-Allah [God willing], and even now I can see people sitting there. May Allah the Almighty bless the Jalsa and all its arrangements in every regard and may He enable people to derive full benefit from all the programmes.

This time, the Jalsa is being organised with a different set of arrangements as to what the Jama’at in Germany is used to. The Jalsa used to be held in halls and indoor facilities and the organisers of the Jalsa did not have to make too many arrangements in terms of the jalsa gah [main hall] either. Generally, people also enjoyed indoor arrangements.

However, now, due to the Jalsa being held in an open space, the organisers will face some difficulties as well as the attendees.

Nevertheless, they should tolerate these difficulties and the objective of both parties, the organisers and the attendees, should be to fulfil the purpose of the Jalsa; they should not be upset and complain about these difficulties. These arrangements will gradually improve. Similar difficulties were faced in UK as well and [some] remain even today. However, now, the arrangements have improved greatly. Hence, during these days, we should give precedence to happiness and joy over every difficulty and make this our objective. Not a month has passed since the Jalsa was held in UK.

Even there, whereas people applauded the arrangements, some also highlighted shortcomings. As such, these shortcomings and weaknesses will remain. The organisers try to eliminate them and will continue to do so in the future as well, insha-Allah. If all participants cooperate and if the workers try their utmost to improve the arrangements according to their abilities and resources, they will be blessed. In relation to this, I will say to everyone on duty that your first and foremost obligation is to accommodate and serve the guests to the best of your ability and with a [true] spirit of service.

Always display courtesy and the workers of every department should deal with the guests with a smile. Work while engaged in prayers. Work with the spirit of serving the guests invited by the Promised Messiahas and that whatever may happen, we will keep the standard of our morals high and continue to serve. Similarly, the guests should also remain mindful of the objective of the Jalsa and as I mentioned, they should tolerate every difficulty and try to achieve the purpose of them attending the Jalsa over these three days. The purpose of holding the Jalsa Salana, which I mentioned during Jalsa Salana UK, is the same and every Ahmadi should remain mindful of this in each and every place the Jalsa is held. If we do this, then every participant will tolerate all sorts of difficulties for the sake of God Almighty and acquire the pleasure of Allah the Almighty. May Allah the Almighty enable everyone to do this.

Always keep in mind that the opportunity to congregate once a year to provide the means for our spiritual advancement as well as our moral advancement, is amongst the greatest blessings bestowed upon us by Allah the Almighty through the Promised Messiahas.

Plan such programmes that draw us closer to Allah the Almighty and increase us in righteousness, and spend your days with the intention and determination to establish the greatest moral excellence and to establish the highest standard of fulfilling each other’s rights. Increase love, affection, and mutual ties. We must remove grievances. Strive to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, and save yourself from all forms of vain pursuits. These are

the very things that the Promised Messiahas has expected of us, and these are the actions that please Allah the Almighty, for which He created us as humans and made us the best of creation.

Therefore, every Ahmadi who attends the Jalsa should always keep these things in mind. If one is not striving to attain the pleasure of Allah the Almighty, if they are not trying to progress in righteousness, if they are not attempting to display the highest moral standards, and not fulfilling the rights of others, then the purpose of attending the Jalsa is not fulfilled, and it serves no benefit.

The prayers of the Promised Messiahas will only be accepted for those who understand this purpose and this objective, for which the Promised Messiahas initiated the Jalsa.

The Promised Messiahas states: “I certainly do not wish to gather those who have taken my bai‘at, for mere outward display like the so-called spiritual leaders of today do; rather, the ultimate purpose [and benefit] for which I have made this strategy is the reformation of God’s creation.”

(Shahadat-ul-Quran, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 6, p. 395) That is the fundamental reason and

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purpose for which the Promised Messiahas organised this Jalsa and made this plan with the will, pleasure and command of Allah the Almighty.

Thus, every Ahmadi should generally keep these objectives in mind, this is not just specifically for the Jalsa. However you all who are gathered here for the Jalsa should particularly bear in mind that if you do these things, then will you fulfil the purpose of attending the Jalsa, and only then will you benefit from attending the Jalsa when you strive your utmost to achieve this purpose.

If you do not develop a relationship with God Almighty, if your moral and spiritual conditions do not improve, then the Promised Messiahas expressed great displeasure and discontentment towards such attendees.

Here, under the new arrangements, if you even gather in the thousands, or wherever the Jalsas are held if people gather in the thousands but do not achieve the purpose of the Jalsa, which is to develop righteousness, then attending the Jalsa serves no purpose, nor does holding the Jalsa benefit anyone.

The Promised Messiahas states: “Let it be known to all sincere followers who have joined this humble one in bai‘at, that the purpose of bai‘at is that the love of the world should cool off, and the love of our Noble Lord and the Holy Prophetsa should dominate the heart, creating such a state of separation [from the world] that our journey to the Hereafter does not become disfavoured.” (Aasmani Faisla, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 4, p. 351) So, what a great responsibility has the Promised Messiahas placed upon us, and what great expectations the Promised Messiahas has of us – that we make the love of Allah the Almighty and His Messengersa dominant over all our loves. There should be no worldly love that can rival this love.

Thus, if this understanding settles in our hearts, only then will our worldly lives be settled and our spiritual lives as well. We will be prosperous in this world and in the Hereafter.

Therefore, those who attend should always keep this in mind, and during these three days, they should keep reflecting on it, and continuously remind themselves of it. If you can do this, then understand that you have achieved the purpose of attending the Jalsa, and if not, then we are not truly appreciating the blessings of Allah the Almighty. It is a great blessing of Allah the Almighty upon us that He has granted us the opportunity to accept the Promised Messiahas. But if, after accepting him and entering into his bai‘at, we do not strive to achieve the purposes for one’s spiritual progress and the attainment of high moral standards, then we are not fulfilling the rights of our bai‘at.

Thus, every participant should bear these points in mind. Be careful not to let the blessings of this world become a means of distancing an Ahmadi Muslim from true piety, a cause to neglect our worship or fall below the highest moral standards.

These businesses and material blessings that God Almighty has granted us after moving here have improved the conditions of many people. In fact, everyone’s situation is better when compared to the conditions we previously faced in Pakistan, or what you would have faced. Despite things being expensive nowadays and the societal

Friday 20 September 2024 | AL HAKAM decay that we witness here, from a material standpoint, you still enjoy a better quality of life than what you had in Pakistan.

So always keep this in mind and be grateful to Allah Almighty, and while expressing this gratitude to Allah, strive your utmost to let the love of God and His Prophetsa swell in your hearts, as this is the very reason for which Jalsa Salana takes place.

As the Promised Messiahas states this strategy [of holding the Jalsa] is a means for one to swiftly increase in their righteousness. The Promised Messiahas explained that he has tried to foster an environment conducive to moral growth,

by Allah’s grace. It’s not just people who partake in this Jalsa who improve their calibre of spirituality and piousness. Rather, every person who has pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas and increases their standards of righteousness will have fulfilled the purpose of the bai‘at.

And since you have joined the Jalsa, then surely you have joined with this intention (and this is why one should join) that I will bring my taqwa [righteousness] to a higher level than before. Hence, every Ahmadi should wholeheartedly endeavour to fulfil this aim.

The Promised Messiahas states: “The purpose for which God Almighty has created this community is to reestablish the true recognition of God that had been lost upon the earth and the true righteousness and piety that could not be found in the world.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 7, pp. 277-278) At another place, he stated: “O ye who count yourselves as members of my Community! You shall be deemed members of my Community in the heavens only when you make truly sincere strides upon the path of piety.” (Kashti-e-Nuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 15) The Promised Messiahas further stated: “Establish the grandeur and awe of God in your hearts, and give expression to His Unity not just by word but by deed, so that God Almighty also demonstrates for you through actions His benevolence and tender affection.” (Risala Al-Wasiyyat, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p. 308) So always keep these statements of the Promised Messiahas in mind. As I said, this is the true purpose of coming to Jalsa and being a true Ahmadi Muslim. The Promised Messiahas is explaining that this is the intention with which every Ahmadi Muslim should participate in the Jalsa and that these are the things that we should inculcate in ourselves thereby. Take advantage of the spiritual environment that God Almighty has provided for you and try to rid yourself of all forms of worldly malaise in these days – and do so with the intention that we will keep ourselves pure of the plague of materialism throughout our lives, giving precedence to our faith over all worldly matters by making use of all our God-given faculties.

The Promised Messiahas has counted precisely those people in his community who cultivate piety and true Taqwah in themselves, and while reforming their own conditions, strive to increase the standards of righteousness. He has also expressed his desire that we “try [our] level best to earn the pleasure of Allah.” Continuously keep your tongues engaged in the remembrance

of Allah and spend your days and nights in worship. Do not let those worldly needs that are inescapably attached to being human and part of a larger society to be devoid of God’s remembrance. Never let them compete in priority with God. Let every one of your actions shine with your desire to please God. The Promised Messiahas stated, “Remember that God’s perfect servants are those about whom God Almighty has said:

ُۡ ٌ َ ٌ �ٰ ۡ ‫َلَا ُتۡل ِ​ِہ ۡ​ۡی ِ​ِہ ۡ​ۡم ِ​ِت َ​َج َاَرٌۃ �َّو َلَا َبَ ۡ​ۡیٌع َ​َع ۡ​ۡن ِ​ِذۡک ِ​ِر الّٰل ِ​ِہ‬

“[‘They are men whose business and trade does not deter them from the remembrance of Allah.’ (24:38)] “When the heart forges a union of true and sincere love with God, then it never separates from Him. One aspect of this state can be understood thusly: if someone’s child is sick, no matter where the parent goes or what they do, their heart and mind remain fixated on their child’s condition. Similarly, those who establish a true connection and love with God Almighty never abandon Him under any circumstance.” (Malfuzat [1984], Vol. 7, pp. 20-21) Thus, an Ahmadi Muslim should always be mindful of His remembrance. There should be a constant effort to become those whose every action is for His pleasure, remain ever-engaged in His remembrance and stay away from every action that He has forbidden us.

We should always remember and remain cognisant, and it should become firmly cemented in our minds that our every action and inaction is seen by Allah, so one should not do anything that might occasion His displeasure.

Thus, this is the condition the Promised Messiahas wishes to see within us and we need to strive in order to achieve this.

Therefore, make a pledge today that we will try our utmost to fulfil the oath we have taken with the Promised Messiahas and that we will spread the mission of the Promised Messiahas in accordance with his teachings; we will strive to bring back the faith from the Pleiades as opposed to diminishing our faith by becoming embroiled in materialism.

We must pledge to act on the teachings of the Holy Quran so that we are counted amongst the “best nation”, so we can be counted amongst that nation for whom Allah the Almighty has bestowed goodness, and it is through our actions that we can set a virtuous example. We must pledge that this faith and these teachings will become forever etched on our hearts and a part of our every action, God willing. And whilst keeping this command of God Almighty in view we ought to remain engaged in the remembrance of God, as God Almighty states:

َ� ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ �ٰ ُ ۡ ُ ‫ۤ​ٰۤیَا �ُّی َ​َہااَّل ِ​ِذۡیۡ َ​َن ٰ​ٰا َ​َمُنوا اۡذُک ُ​ُروا الّٰل َ​َہ ِ​ِذۡک ً​ًرا َک ِ​ِثۡی ً​ًرا‬

“O ye who believe, remember Allah much.” (Surah al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.42) Therefore, Allah the Almighty has granted us an opportunity as a reminder to us and for us to focus our attention on the remembrance of Allah during these days, as well as focusing our attention on our worship so that we increase in righteousness.

So we become those who attain the nearness of Allah the Almighty, consequently, just as the Promised Messiahas has stated, Allah the

Almighty will then bestow His benevolence and favours.

Thus, by progressing in righteousness, Allah the Almighty’s benevolence and favours will become manifest; one aspect of this is fulfilling the rights of Allah, and we will only gain this through fulfilling the dues to our worship and through the remembrance of Allah. Whilst expounding on this matter and relating it to Jalsa Salana, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra says: “The Jalsa Salana is among the signs of Allah the Almighty.” (Iftitahi Taqreer Jalsa Salana, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 12, p. 389) And the reason mentioned by the Promised Messiahas for it to be deemed as such is because it is a means to increase in spirituality and one key method to achieve this is worship and the remembrance of Allah. With regards to the remembrance of Allah, from among the great benefits of this highlighted by God Almighty is:

ُ ُ ْ �ٰ ُ ْ ُ ‫ُاْذُک ُ​ُروا الّٰل َ​َہ َیَْذُک ْ​ْرُک ْ​ْم‬

It means that if you remember Allah, in turn Allah will remember you. Thus, most fortunate is the one who is remembered by his Master, the one Who created him and is the true Sovereign, and then blesses him with beneficence and bounties.

Therefore, during these days, everyone should pay particular attention to this important matter; whether it is the men sitting in the jalsa gah, women, or it is the men and women who are assigned various duties, or whether they are Lajna members, nasirat or atfal, everyone ought to bear this in mind.

If we fail to give due importance to our worship and to the remembrance of Allah, then neither will we establish a sincere bond with the Representative sent by Allah, nor can we become the recipients of Allah’s pleasure; just as the Promised Messiahas states: “You will be counted as members of my Community in heaven when you truly tread upon the ways of righteousness.” (Kashti-eNuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 15) This statement ought to make our hair stand on end. We often read these words or hear them in our Jamaat events, and they are often repeated. However ,we pass a fleeting glance over them, and after repeating it, we overlook them, or perhaps we pay attention to them for a short time and temporarily we focus our attention towards it, but then we forget them. Thus, a sincere and true Ahmadi should always be mindful of this statement and ponder over it deeply. Each and every piece of advice issued by the Promised Messiahas to his community ought to shake us to the core. We may make countless verbal claims that we are Ahmadis, but if the Lord of the Throne has not deemed us as such, then for us to make this claim is futile and attending the Jalsa will be in vain. Thus, pray fervently during these days. Forge a connection with God Almighty, focus your attention on the remembrance of God and cleanse your heart of the darkness that lays within it and remove all malice.

In this regard, I wish to draw your attention towards an important matter.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh saw a vision in which an elderly gentleman said to him, “If every member of this community recites the durood 200 times:

AL HAKAM | Friday 20 September 2024

َ �ٰ َ ْ �ٰ َ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ �ٰ َ َ ْ ُ ‫ُسْبَحاَن الّٰل ِ​ِہ َو ِ​ِبَحْم ِ​ِد ٖ​ٖہ ُسْبَح‬ ‫اَن الّٰل ِ​ِہ اْل َ​َع ِ​ِظ ْ​ْیم َالّٰل ُ​ُھ �َّم َ​َص ّ �ِّل َ​َعٰلٰی‬ َ َ َ ‫ُ​ُم َ​َح �َّم ٍ​ٍد �َّو ٰ​ٰا ِ​ِل ُ​ُم َ​َح �َّمد‬ He then said those who are of a mature age, between the ages of 15-25, should recite it at least 100 times a day, children should recite it at least 33 times; and younger children should repeat after their parents three or four times. Alongside this one should recite Istighfar 100 times.

Furthermore, I wish to add that one should recite:

ْ َ ْ َ � َ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ� ُ � َ ْ ‫اْحَفْظِنِ ْ​ْی َ​َواْن ُ​ُص ْ​ْرِن ِ ْ​ْی َ​َو ْاْر َ​َح ْ​ْمِنِ ْ​ْی‬ ‫َر ّ​ِّب ُکُّل َشْی ٍ​ٍء َخا ِ​ِدُمَک َر ّ​ِّب َف‬

100 times. [Recite this], especially during these days and generally going forward. In this vision, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh was shown that if you do this, then you will enter a secure fort, in which Satan can never enter. The walls of the fort are made of iron, which reach the heavens. Thus, no crack will remain through which Satan can enter.

(Report Majlis-e-Mushawarat Jamaat-eAhmadiyya 1968, p. 233) In these times, when Satan is making every effort to attack us, both as a Community and on a global scale, there is only one means to protect ourselves: to place special emphasis on prayers, not just during the days of the Jalsa, but forever onwards. Reciting salutations upon the Holy Prophetsa and the remembrance of God should be a permanent part of your lives. Everyone—children, adults, women, and men—should pay attention to this.

Another important point is that there will be many speeches aimed at increasing knowledge, training, and spiritual improvement. Listen to these as well.

While listening to these speeches, make a pledge before God and seek His help, saying, “O God, we have come here with pure intentions, responding to the call of Your Messiah for the reformation of our hearts. However, we cannot achieve this reformation through our own efforts alone.

We need Your help. If You do not hear our َ َ َ prayer of ‫[ نْیِعتْسَن کاّیِا‬You alone do we implore for help] and assist us, we cannot reach the standards of Your worship.

Therefore, we pray: ‘O my God, O my Beloved God, for Your sake, save us from being ruined. Grant us an abundant share of the noble purpose for which we have gathered here. Bestow Your grace upon us, for without Your grace, we can achieve nothing. Purify our hearts so thoroughly that whatever we hear, we do not merely enjoy intellectually or literarily, but instead, we elevate the standards of our morals and spirituality that bring us closer to You, and make these qualities a part of our lives.

We must act upon them and also ensure that these virtues continue in our future generations.’”

So, when we sincerely try to benefit from the Jalsa programs, pray and strive to apply these teachings to our lives, only then will we be able to bring about a transformation in our lives. We will participate in the revolution for which the Promised Messiahas was sent, and as a result, we will bring about a revolution in the world. Otherwise, as I said, the world, which is currently immersed in frivolity and play, is heading towards destruction. Satan is attacking from all directions, and the world cannot save itself. If we fall into this trap, then there will be no one to save the world, and we too will perish with it. Hence,

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it is a moment of great fear. An Ahmadi must always reflect and constantly focus on achieving the purpose of life, which is also the purpose of our pledge of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas. We have pledged to strive with all our might to attain this goal.

The Promised Messiahas has stated that one of the purposes of the Jalsa is for the participants to increase their mutual acquaintance—meaning to foster love, affection, and friendship among each other.

(Shahadat-ul-Quran, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 6, p. 394) If we fulfil this right and achieve this purpose, only then can we truly become the members of the Community that the Promised Messiahas desires. Therefore, during these days, place great emphasis on strengthening relationships, promoting love, spreading peace among one another, and improving the bonds you already have. If there has been any grievance for any reason, try to remove it. For the sake of seeking God’s pleasure, not only avoid idle talk, but also strive to create an atmosphere of love and affection. Not only should you avoid quarrels, but also seek to apologise and offer forgiveness for any past disputes. Free yourselves from the snares of personal ego. I receive complaints that people get into serious altercations over trivial matters, causing disrepute to the Community. I have mentioned this several times before, including in the previous Jalsa UK. Give due attention to this.

Sometimes, in unavoidable circumstances, the Community’s administrative system has to impose punishment for such behaviour to protect the dignity of the Community, which then causes discomfort. But these punishments are not imposed with joy.

Always remember that we must uphold the sanctity of the Community. If the administration or the Khalifa of the Time imposes any punishment, it is done to preserve the sanctity of the Community, because the Community’s sanctity is above all relationships. If you have a true connection with the Promised Messiahas, then, while feeling remorse for your actions, strive to mend the rifts that have formed and create bonds of love, not only because of that love but also because of a genuine desire to follow the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. He instructed that no Muslim should harm another Muslim with his tongue or hand. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Iman, Hadith 10) So, during these days, when we have gathered to seek God’s pleasure, bow before Him and continue to pray. Engage in the remembrance of God with perfect faith.

Follow the path that Allah has prescribed with complete obedience. If this is done, then it is impossible to disobey the system of the Jamaat at any time. On the one hand, there is an effort to be counted as a member of the Promised Messiah’sas Jamaat in the heavens, while on the other hand, one may be disregarding the system established by the Promised Messiahas and his successors. This cannot happen. These are two contradictory actions. Those who sincerely bow before God cannot display such contradictions. Therefore, during these days, strive to cleanse the impurities from your hearts through prayers and selfreformation. Value the opportunity that Allah has provided. If you have come to the Jalsa for the purpose of reformation and not

as if attending a festival – as the Promised Messiahas has stated that this Jalsa is not a festival – then surely the impurities of the hearts will be cleansed.

Sometimes, even in daily life and in the days following the Jalsa, a general Ahmadi may have conflicts and grievances with office-bearers. In such cases, if they keep in mind the purpose of this Jalsa, every Ahmadi will try to resolve their past conflicts. If any bitterness has arisen here, they will also try to remove it. Office-bearers and those on duty during the Jalsa should also keep in mind that we must display the highest standards of morals and strive to remove personal egos and grudges for the sake of Allah the Almighty. We must fulfil the pledge we have made to live as brothers. The highest standards of morals should be exhibited, especially by those on duty, because as office-bearers, they have a greater responsibility. Therefore, they should display more patience, even if there is any wrongdoing, and never respond harshly. When you do this, your high morals will set an example for others. If office-bearers consider themselves servants rather than office-bearers, and every worker considers themselves a servant, and the members of the Jamaat regard the officebearers as workers appointed by the Khalifa of the Time to run the administration of the Community, then these relationships will always remain as bonds of love and affection. They will give the true message of peace and security to the world under the guidance of the Khalifa of the Time. They will bring about a revolution in the world.

They will fulfil the mission of the Promised Messiahas. They will follow the paths on which the Promised Messiahas wanted us to tread. They will achieve the standards that the Promised Messiahas guided us to attain.

The Promised Messiahas says in one place: “O fortunate people, enter this teaching with full force, which has been given to me for your salvation. (That is, you have already taken the first step towards success by pledging allegiance to me, because you were fortunate). But now make this teaching a practical part of your lives so that your virtues are polished.”

The Promised Messiahas further states: “Know that God is One and without partner. Do not associate anything with Him; not in the heavens nor in the earth.”

He then states, “God does not forbid you from using material means; you can absolutely use worldly means, but a person who abandons God and relies solely on worldly means is an idolater. From time immemorial, God has been saying that salvation cannot be achieved without becoming pure-hearted. So, become pure hearted and abandon personal rancour and enmities. Man’s self that incites to evil comprises many impurities, the greatest of which is arrogance. If there was no arrogance, then no one would remain a disbeliever. So become meek of heart, and seeing as you are preaching about offering Paradise, you should generally show empathy towards humanity.” In other words, we say that Islam is the real religion that grants salvation, and it is through it that one can attain nearness to Allah the Almighty. Thus, we preach Paradise to people. The Promised Messiahas states, “Seeing as you are preaching about offering

Paradise, you should show empathy towards humanity. How can your preaching be considered true if you wish ill for others in this temporal world? Fulfil the duties owed to God Almighty with the heartfelt fear that you will be questioned about them.

Supplicate a great deal in your prayers so that God may draw you unto Himself and purify your hearts, because man is weak.

Any sin that is removed is removed through the power of God Almighty.” He states, “Until one does not receive the power from God Almighty, they do not have the ability to remove any evil. Islam is not simply for one to attest to the Kalimah [Islamic creed] as a formality; rather, the essence of Islam is that your souls fall upon the threshold of God Almighty and that God and His commandments take precedence over every aspect of your world.” (Tadhkirat-ushShahadatain, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p.

63) In other words, you should become one who gives precedence to faith over the world.

These are the standards established by the Promised Messiahas that we must strive to establish and attain within ourselves and thereby eliminate personal rancour and enmities. This is an excellent opportunity to do so. You should strive towards this end during these days.

Seeing as a spiritual atmosphere is fostered during these days, one is also drawn towards self-reflection, as should be the case. The Promised Messiahas states that one should focus on avoiding arrogance, because arrogance breeds disobedience.

It is arrogance that led people to reject the prophets. It is arrogance that incites against the system of the Jama’at and then incites to stand up against the system of the Jamaat. It is arrogance that leads to quarrels amongst one another. It is arrogance that exhibits the false honour associated with one’s pride.

Hence, strive hard to avoid arrogance.

Then, you are enjoined to show empathy for the creation of Allah the Almighty. Your words can only be influential and your efforts in propagation will only be impactful when true empathy is established for the creation. Whenever people visit our Jalsas, they become impacted upon seeing the atmosphere because, at that moment, they see Ahmadis humbly serving their guests and interacting with one another with love and affection. This is the silent tabligh which I always draw attention towards. This is the tabligh which strives to enable the truth of Ahmadiyyat to prevail in the hearts of people. People from different countries are also attending your Jalsa, and as always, I trust that these people will take away a positive impact, given that you strive to establish a positive impact and that whilst unifying your words and your action, and whilst acting according to the teachings of the Promised Messiahas and Islam you bow before God Almighty with humility and meekness in order to become those who attain the objectives of the Jalsa; the objective of attaining righteousness, which then enables one to act with virtue. When this happens, then our calling unto Allah will also become blessed.

These days, much is said against Islam and Muslims – owing to their wrong actions or the bad teachings they promote – but when people see the atmosphere here of love, affection, brotherhood, our

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high morals, and our connection with God Almighty, then the doubts and concerns in the minds of many will be dispelled. So during these days, through your words and actions, make the environment so peaceful – in fact, always apply this to your lives as a whole – which positively impacts the world, so that people attest that these are the people who act according to the true teachings of Islam and the true teachings of Islam alone can bring about true peace and security in the world. Hence, you will be doing silent tabligh without the use of any literature or argumentation. If we truly establish our lives to become an example of the true Islamic teachings then we will become those who fulfil their pledge of allegiance. Pledging allegiance to the Promised Messiahas will only benefit us when we give precedence to faith over the world and are not those who raise empty slogans. The Promised Messiahas has advised his Jamaat with great pain and longing, and I will present an example of this before you. The Promised Messiahas states: “I pray, and I will continue to pray so long as I live, that God Almighty purifies the hearts of my community, and turns their hearts towards Himself by extending His hand of mercy; that He rids their hearts of all mischief and malice and grant them true mutual love. I am certain that this prayer will be accepted at some point and that God will not let my prayers go to waste.” The Promised Messiahas also cautions and gives warning when he says, “Indeed, I also pray that if, in the knowledge and design of God Almighty, someone from my community is perpetually misfortunate and is not destined to attain true piety and fear of God, then O God, the All Powerful, cast him away from me as he has become cast away from You, and replace him with someone whose heart is tender and for whom searching for You is a part of life.” (Shahadat-ul-Quran, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 6, p. 398) This should serve as a huge wakeup call for us. If we wish to partake of the prayers made by the Promised Messiahas, then we must bring about virtuous changes within ourselves. Otherwise, as the Promised Messiahas said that if this does not happen, then they have nothing to do with him, because he only wished to associate with those who are virtuous and pious. Whereas this prayer gives us hope and draws our attention, towards becoming those who act virtuously, it is also a frightening prospect that if we do not act with virtue, we could become distanced from the Promised Messiahas. We should not be those who pledge allegiance merely in name; those who pledge allegiance and then, instead of attaining the blessings of Allah the Almighty, become those who incur His displeasure. May Allah the Almighty save us from this.

I also wish to say that during the days of Jalsa, everyone on duty and all the attendees should keep an eye on their surroundings.

With the conditions prevalent these days, some mischievous faction could take advantage. Hence, remain vigilant when it comes to security. May Allah the Almighty safeguard everyone against every evil; may this Jalsa attract every blessing; and may everyone remain in the protection of Allah

the Almighty.

Pray a great deal for the state of the world; pray a great deal for your country as well. When we sincerely act according to the commandments of Allah the Almighty, when we attain His pleasure, when we act according to the true teachings of Islam, when we express true love and devotion for the Holy Prophetsa, and when we complete the revival of Islam and the spreading of Islam’s teachings for which the Promised Messiahas was sent in servitude to the Holy Prophetsa then Allah the Almighty will certainly hear our prayers if these are our intentions and we will become a source of guiding the world. May Allah the Almighty enable us to benefit from the blessings of Jalsa. May Allah the Almighty keep you

in His protection during these three days and beyond. May He continue to shower His blessings and enable you to recite the prayers for which I mentioned earlier; reciting durood sharif 200 times, istighfar 100 times, as well as:

ْ َ ْ َ � َ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ� ُ � َ ْ ‫اْحَفْظِنِ ْ​ْی َ​َواْن ُ​ُص ْ​ْرِن ِ ْ​ْی َ​َو ْاْر َ​َح ْ​ْمِنِ ْ​ْی‬ ‫َر ّ​ِّب ُکُّل َشْی ٍ​ٍء َخا ِ​ِدُمَک َر ّ​ِّب َف‬

Give due attention to reciting these not only during these three days, but rather every Ahmadi should recite these prayers continuously. Mothers should also have their children repeat these prayers. May Allah the Almighty grant the ability to do so.

The organisers of the Jalsa have also written to me that there are some exhibitions

being held there. They have requested me to announce that people should visit these exhibitions, and so I draw attention towards this; you should visit these exhibitions and benefit from them so that you may see how Allah the Almighty is bestowing His favours upon us. May Allah the Almighty grant the ability to do so. During these days, those in Germany, who I can see are quite large in number masha-Allah, should focus on offering prayers and the remembrance of Allah. May Allah the Almighty make this blessed in every way.

(Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 13 September 2024, pp. 2-8. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

Editor-in-Chief: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Executive Editors: Ataul Fatir Tahir, Aqeel Ahmed Kang | Research: Awwab Saad Hayat, Iftekhar Ahmed | Associate Editors: Jalees Ahmad, Ata-ul-Haye Nasir Translations: M Adam Ahmad | Design: Tahmeed Ahmad | Social Media: Romaan Basit | © Al Hakam 2024