Al Hakam - 28 February 2020

My Maryam – Part IV The final part of a beautiful eulogy written by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in memory of his wife, Hazrat Maryam Begumra Page 8

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100 Years Ago..

“Wherever you are working in the world, your priority should be religion”

The frailty of atheism

An appeal for Al Hakam – An “arm” of the Promised Messiahas

Waqf-e-Nau Khuddam meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V Page 4

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Islam’s response

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 28 February 2020 | Issue CII Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih opens Darus Salaam Mosque in West London

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

Holding fast to the Quran and Sunnah Hazrat Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “All my followers will enter Paradise except those who refuse.” They said, “O Allah's Messenger! Who will refuse?” He said, “Whoever obeys me will enter Paradise, and whoever disobeys me is the one who refuses (to enter it).”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, The book on holding fast to the Quran and Sunnah)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

The stage at which the godly perform actions of divine nature

On Sunday, 23 February, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa arrived at the premises of the new mosque in Southall, West London and unveiled the plaque, officially opening the mosque, prior to the

Maghrib and Isha prayers.

At around 5:45pm, Huzooraa led the local Ahmadis and the many guests who had gathered for the auspicious occasion in Maghrib and Isha prayers.

Immediately after the prayers, Huzooraa addressed the local Jamaat members in the mosque.

Continued on page 3

Similarly, it is my experience that the godly attain such a high rank in their nearness to Allah that a divine complexion wholly and perfectly covers the traces of their human character. This may be illustrated by the example of fire which engulfs iron to the extent that apparently, nothing but fire is visible. Similarly, such holy individuals become imbued with the hue of God’s attributes, by way of reflection.

At that time, without prayer or supplication to God, such a one performs actions, which possess the Continued on page 3

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

This Week in History 28 February - 5 March A selection of brief incidents from the first and second era of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya

28 February 1921: Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Nayyarra arrived in Sierra Leone to establish the Jamaat mission.

religion.

28 February 1922: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Lahore, and on this date, the principal of Dyal Singh College, Lahore visited Huzoorra.

March 1942: The draft of a proposed bill was presented at India’s Central Legislative Assembly.

The bill, called the “Qazi Bill” aimed to stop the Muslim way of marriage and attacked its regulation and registration. If the bill was passed, it would March 1911: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira arranged have caused great inconvenience and unwanted for Sanskrit to be taught to Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub troubles for the Muslims of India in terms of Ali Irfanira and Hazrat Sheikh Muhammad Yusufra. registering their marriages. In response, the Huzoorra personally bore the expenses of the whole Jamaat and the Muslim League raised an effective project. voice against this proposed bill. As a result, the bill was dismissed by a large margin of votes.

March 1913: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira started delivering lectures of Sahih Bukhari – the most March 1942: During the Second World War, Japan authentic compilation of hadith. managed to occupy vast territories, like Java, Sumatra, and their adjacent islands. After their ra March 1913: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I sent the occupation, Japan split all religious entities and first ever Jamaat delegation to Bengal to engage strictly banned the propagation of religious views in tabligh activities. They carried out tabligh in and beliefs. To tackle this obstacle, the Jamaat Bengal for the next 17 days. missionaries appointed in these areas shifted their March 1915: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra book efforts of tabligh to their personal acquaintances Haqiqatul Nabuwa was published. only. This new manner of tabligh proved effective and the number of members of the Jamaat as March 1916: The Promised Messiah’s elder continued to increase, even during the most harsh brother, Mirza Ghulam Qadir’s widow, Hurmat and troublesome times.

Bibi Sahiba, performed Bai‘at and accepted the

28 February 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra attended one of the sessions of the Legislative Council of Punjab on this date.

28 February 1929: The Muslim League was facing an internal rift which created the Jinnah League and Shafi League. On this date, relentless efforts of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat united the two rivals towards a common goal.

28 February 1941: Hazrat Babu Wazir Khanra passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas was an overseer by profession.

28 February 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, foreseeing the approaching devastation, directed Jamaat members to begin observing voluntary fasts every Thursday, and to remain occupied in prayers and supplications.

28 February 1947: Hazrat Seith Muhammad Ghausra from Hazara passed away. He was a companion of the Promised Messiahas.

28 February 1947: The Provincial Educational Association convened its second annual three-day meeting in Qadian. Organisers requested Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to guide them in their respective field. Upon their request, Huzoorra sent them a written message to be read at the gathering.

28 February 1951: An anti-Ahmadiyya conference was held in Multan, Pakistan where baseless and provocative allegations were leveled against the Jamaat and hatred was spread through speeches.

In rebuttal, Maulana Jalaluddin Shams Sahib penned a detailed article addressing the matters raised in Multan. Al Fazl published this exposition.

28 February 1953: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra started delivering lectures of the Holy Quran in Masjid Mubarak, Rabwah. Huzoorra deliberated the commentary of Surah Maryam, later published in March 1958 within the fourth volume of Tafsir-eKabir.

28 February 1953: During the 1953 AntiAhmadiyya Lahore Riots in Punjab, Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra began delivering a series of instructions for Jamaat members for the weeks to come during the agitations.

28 February 1954: Hazrat Mian Feroz-ud-Dinra of Sialkot passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas performed Bai‘at in 1892.

28 February 1960: Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sialra passed away. He was a companion of the Promised Messiahas and the first ever missionary sent from India to the United Kingdom, under the khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira. March 1891: A correspondence between Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra and Dr Jaggan Nath started in Jammu Kashmir about the details of

March 1905: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra took his matriculation exams.

After a three-hour discussion, Mr Muhammad Ali Jinnah was convinced to resume his public life and struggle for the Muslims of the Indian subcontinent.

March 1911: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira invited Jamaat members to donate for the Muslim University in Aligarh. The Jamaat donated 1,000 rupees towards this fund.

message of the Promised Messiahas. In this way, she fulfilled the prophecy of “Tai ayi”, that is “The senior aunt came.”

March 1922: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra invited religious leaders and clerics of different schools of thought to a debate in a bid to find out the truth.

March 1922: The magazine Tashheez-ul-Azhan was merged with the Review of Religions Urdu.

March 1927: Piggott, who claimed to be the Messiah and God, met his miserable end in England and died in utter helplessness.

March 1927: Hazrat Maulvi Rahmat Alira, missionary in Indonesia, launched a magazine from Padang, entitled Iqbal.

March 1931: Some security arrangements were made for Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra personal security. The first bodyguard assigned to this service was Khan Mir Khan Sahib from Afghanistan.

March 1931: A magazine Adabi Dunya published an article written by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra about how an Urdu magazine can benefit the Urdu language.

March 1931: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra shared his heartfelt desire of unity amongst the Muslims.

Huzoorra put great emphasis on this most basic need of prosperity and advancement.

March 1932: Punjab University Lahore established its examination centre for Oriental languages in Qadian.

March 1932: Hazrat Maulana Abul Ata launched a quarterly magazine from Palestine titled Al Bashara Al Islamiyya.

March 1933: Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Dardra went to meet Muhammad Ali Jinnah in his office located on King’s Bench Walk, Temple, London.

March 1944: When Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was informed by God the Almighty that he is the Musleh-e-Maud (Promised Reformer), he started conducting daily question and answer sessions in Masjid Mubarak, Qadian after Maghrib prayers.

Owing to the increasing number of listeners of this blessed and informative sitting, from 16 June, loudspeakers were installed.

March 1944: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra foretold the troubling times ahead on account of a vision he had. Moreover, Huzoorra anticipated the Jamaat would bear tough and fearsome persecution in the next five years.

March 1945: Hazrat Chaudhry Sir Zafarulla Khanra panned out various solutions to the problems in the political atmosphere of the Indian subcontinent during a radio speech aired from London.

March 1946: The local Sikh community hosted an event at Kot Syed Mahmud, a place in Amritsar, India where an Ahmadi scholar, Giani Ibadullah Sahib delivered a speech.

March 1947: After the resignation of Sir Khizr Hayat in Punjab, as premier of the province, the whole area experienced widespread urban and rural outbreaks of violence resulting in deaths, abductions, looting and arson etc.

Amritsar was the epicenter of the torment.

Under the instructions of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya set up a relief camp which remained functional for the coming months.

Huzoorra directed the Jamaat to obtain and gather 18,000 Mann of wheat and other food items to help those being affected.

March 1947: Owing to the ongoing lawlessness, Qadian became stranded from the rest of the Continued on page 10

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM across the road from the mosque.

Continued from page 1

Following the recitation of Surah alBaqarah, chapter 2, verses 128 to 130 and its translation, Rafiq Ahmad Hayat Sahib, Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya UK gave a brief overview of the Southall Jamaat and the mosque. He also spoke on the great sacrifices of the local Ahmadis for constructing this mosque.

Following Tashahud and Ta‘awuz, Huzooraa said that it was a sign of the mercy of Allah that He had enabled the Southall Jamaat to establish this mosque, after being established in Southall for around 60 years.

Huzooraa then went on to talk about the responsibilities of the local Ahmadis in showing the true teachings of Islam through their actions and proving to others that Islam is a religion of love and compassion, thus proving its need to be propagated in the world.

Huzooraa said that one of the purposes of bullding mosques is to establish tawhid [the unity of God]. To achieve this, we must ensure that the rights of Allah are being fulfilled, that is His worship, and also the rights of mankind.

The best way to show the true and beautiful teachings of Islam to the world is to follow the teachings of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, who was the most devoted servant of Islam and the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.

Huzooraa prayed that Allah may enable all the Ahmadis in the area to follow these teachings and show the best possible example to the local populace.

Huzoor’s speech to the local Ahmadis was followed by dua.

Thereafter, Huzooraa commenced to the formal reception that was held at the premises of Villiers High School, situated

Formal reception The formal reception for the inauguration of Darus Salaam Mosque commenced around 7pm.

The event began with the recitation of verses 26 and 27 of Surah Yunus by Usama Siam Sahib, followed by its translation by Adeel Minhas Sahib.

Sohail Qureshi Sahib, the regional president, then welcomed the guests and introduced the community. In his talk, he reassured the local populace that this new Ahmadiyya mosque would be a positive addition to the rich, diverse local culture.

Seema Malhotra, Member of Parliament for Feltham and Heston, was then invited to the podium. In her talk, she commended the achievements of the Ahmadiyya community and spoke of her relationship with the mosque and the community.

Thereafter, Virendra Sharma, Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall, took to the stage and spoke on the pride he took in this mosque being established in his constituency.

While other dignitaries were also present, whose participation was acknowledged, Mr Sharma’s talk was followed by Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa address.

Following Tashahud and Ta‘awuz, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that previously, the local Jamaat did not have a mosque and a mission house was used for praying.

Huzooraa said that it was a blessing of Allah that this mosque was able to be constructed.

Huzooraa said that while Southall has a large Asian population, the Ahmadiyya Community is relatively small. If we look at Southall’s history, there is a history of racial tensions and rioting, however the Southall community has been an excellent example of racial diversity.

Thus, after expressing gratitude to Allah the Almighty, Huzooraa said that it was incumbent upon us to thank the local population, whether they be Sikh, Hindu or belonging to any other group.

Huzooraa continued by saying that a fundamental teaching of Islam is that there should be mutual respect and understanding, the perfect example of which was presented by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.

Huzooraa explained how, in the early period of Islam, the Holy Prophetsa dealt with everyone equally, regardless of their faith.

Referring to the covenant of Medina, Huzooraa said, “The founder of Islam always abided by the terms of the covenant and instructed the Muslims to do the same. Not once did he abuse his authority or violate the terms in any way.”

Huzooraa went on to quote the Holy Quran in which it says that the basic purpose of man’s existence on earth is the worship of Allah. Huzooraa explained that alongside this, it should be clear that Allah does not require our worship and that His worship can only truly be achieved when the worshipper strives to better themselves.

Huzooraa gave the example of the Holy Quran, wherein God is called Rabb, that is the Provider and Sustainer of all mankind, as well as being the Gracious and Merciful. There are many other similar Continued on page 4

Continued from page 1

characteristics of divinity. The words they utter are fulfilled exactly as stated. There is clear mention in the Holy Quran of such occurrences as a result of the actions and words of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. For example, there is the following verse: ْ ّٰ َ ‫َو َما َر َم ْی َت ِإذ َر َم ْی َت َولٰ ِک ّن الل َہ َر َمی‬ “Thou threwest not when thou didst throw, but it was Allah Who threw.”

There was the miracle of the splitting of the moon. Similarly, there are examples of the Holy Prophetsa curing a vast number of the ailing and sick. The statement of the Holy Quran: ْ ‫َما یَنط ُِق َع ِن ال َهوَ ٰى‬ (He does not speak out of his own desire) in favour of our Noble Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, alludes to the extreme and supreme divine nearness which the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, enjoyed. Truly, this is evidence of the immensely purified soul of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and his nearness to the Divine.

It is mentioned in a hadith that Allah the Exalted becomes the hands, feet and eyes, etc. of a believing servant of God. This purports to say that all the limbs of such a person become so imbued in obedience to Allah that they are transformed into an instrument of the Divine, through which divine actions are manifested from time to time. Or they may be likened to a spotless mirror, which reflects with the utmost clarity, the will of God in its entirety.

Or, one could say that in this state, such people relinquish their human character completely. For example, when a person speaks, they desire in their hearts that others should praise them for their eloquence, articulate speech and lucid expression. Yet, there are those who speak by divine power. When their souls become impassioned, it is from Allah the Exalted that a wave overwhelms them and inspires them in a manner that they cease to speak with their own voice and words; rather, they speak, permeated with the character, words and fervour of the Divine. Similarly, when they see, they do not see with their own concentration, as is the norm for others; but rather, their sight is free from human involvement and is illumined by the light of God Almighty – God shows them that which even the most scrupulous attention could not reveal to man.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 114-115)

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIIrh, on a visit to Southall

Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh visiting the mission house, 1982 Continued from page 3

attributes of Allah that Muslims believe in.

Thus, Muslims are instructed to look after the wellbeing of their fellow humans.

Huzooraa said that it is the belief of Ahmadis that only that person who is considerate of their fellow beings can be a true worshipper of Allah.

Huzooraa explained that it should be clear that it is the religious duty of every Muslim to serve mankind. “To alleviate the physical and mental suffering of mankind is part of our faith.”

Huzooraa carried on by saying that the Jamaat has opened many hospitals and schools across the developing world. Clinics are also being established in many remote places of the world. Huzooraa said that whilst mosques are built for the worship of Allah, the service of mankind remains a primary responsibility of members of the Jamaat. Love and compassion should be the primary goal of every true Ahmadi Muslim and it is for this reason that the words, “Love for all; Hatred for none” make the motto of the community. Huzooraa explained that this motto is not used to impress others, rather it is something that all Ahmadis must live by.

Huzooraa said that with the construction of this mosque, it is his hope that the Ahmadis show the true, positive reflection of Islam.

Huzooraa prayed that all Ahmadis living in the area lived up to the standards as mentioned by him in his talk and that the locals would accept the Jamaat’s hand of friendship that shall forever remain extended. He prayed that may we focus on

those things that unite us and that Southall be blessed.

Towards the end, Huzooraa said, “I pray with all my heart that this mosque proves to be a beacon of light” and a symbol of peace and unity.

Huzooraa then thanked the guests for joining the Ahmadiyya Community on this auspicious occasion.

About the mosque The Southall Jamaat was established in 1961 and the missionary was appointed to the area in 1975.

In 1980, a building was purchased and refurbished at 11 Boyd Avenue, Southall for approximately £52,000. Hazrat Hafiz Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIIrh inaugurated this mission house, when only around 40 families lived in the area, and in the same year, he named it Darus Salaam, meaning “The Abode of Peace”.

Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IVrh visited the mission house in 1982 and encouraged the local Ahmadis to build a mosque.

In July 2017, the old premises was demolished, with excavation and digging commencing in 2017.

On 8 October 2017, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa laid the foundation stone of the Darus Salaam Mosque.

By August 2019, the construction of the mosque was completed, with carpet and underfloor heating system being installed.

The main prayer hall can accommodate 220 people, with a total capacity of 700 people.

“Wherever you are working in the world, your priority should be religion” Waqf-e-Nau Khuddam meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V On 23 February, on the last day of the UK Waqf-e-Nau Retreat 2020, around 800 Waqifeen-e-Nau Khuddam had a sitting with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper.

The class commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by hadith and an extract of Promised Messiahas that was about the importance of serving religion and the Promised Messiah’sas passion for the cause.

Following this, a presentation was delivered by a khadim with regard to Huzoor’saa guidance for Waqifeen around the world.

A short video clip was also played highlighting the different events, talks and activities that occurred during the retreat.

Following this, Waqifeen had the opportunity to engage with and ask

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa questions on various matters.

The first question was asked by a khadim with regard to preparing for exams and how Huzooraa would prepare when he was a student.

Huzooraa responded by saying, “I remember once, before my final exams, when I realised that my preparation was not sufficient enough, I closed the doors and studied day and night. I would only leave the room when it was time for namaz or time to eat; and, by the grace of God, I managed to pass all my exams.”

Huzooraa further stressed, “But I want you all to attain high marks. So I am thankful that I passed my examinations.

But in this day and age, you people will not be able to survive without attaining good grades.”

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM Another khadim asked whether Waqfe-Nau boys and girls have to marry a partner who is Waqf-e-Nau only.

Huzoor said, “They can marry others; therefore, it is incorrect to say this. The boy or girl should be Ahmadi though and the girls should be righteous and know well that being a Waqf-e-Nau means that their husbands should also be virtuous and should have a desire to serve his faith.

He should not be one to stop his wife from serving the Jamaat.

“Also, boys should marry women who have a passion to serve their faith and can also stand alongside him in his service to faith, and later be able to raise their children accordingly. Otherwise, it is not really necessary for a Waqf-e-Nau to marry another Waqf-e-Nau. The main thing is that the spouse should be an Ahmadi, and a righteous person.”

Huzooraa also highlighted the Holy Prophet’ssa instruction of marrying a righteous partner and making this the most important factor when choosing a spouse.

One question was whether it is permissible to say “Jumuah Mubarak”.

Huzooraa, with a smile, said, “Jumuah is Mubarak. Of course you can say it; what is the harm?”

Referring to an incident of Hazrat Umarra, Huzooraa said, “Once, Hazrat Umarra said to a Jew that Fridays in Islam are very blessed days for Muslims.

Through this incident, we can see that Fridays are indeed a blessed day.”

One khadim asked about tasbih (the glorification of Allah) that is recited after Salat.

Huzooraa first made it clear that it is not a compulsory part of Salat.

He then said that on one occasion, some Muslims who were not wealthy and could not partake in activities due to lack of provisions, asked the Holy Prophetsa how they could partake in Jihad and spend in the way of Allah as the wealthy Muslims were able to. The Holy Prophetsa responded that after namaz, they should recite “Subhanallah” 33 times, “Alhamdulillah” 33 times and “Allahuakbar” 34 times.

Upon witnessing this, the other companions who were wealthy started doing the same as they also had fervour for religion.

Huzooraa added, “This is not a compulsory part of Salat. However, if you get the chance, then you should recite it.”

One Waqif-e-Nau asked Huzooraa if he ever felt nervous.

Responding to this, Huzooraa said, “Nervousness is a common human emotion. At times, I would become nervous before the previous Khulafa. Sometimes when one becomes overexcited, they get nervous thinking how they will complete a task in an emergency.

“We had to carry out such tasks during the 1974 agitations [against the Jamaat].

I would sometimes deliver messages in excitement and would utter the wrong words.

“Excitement is not like nervousness,

otherwise if someone becomes nervous during day-to-day activities, then they cannot get anything done. For this reason, one should try to compose oneself first and then start working so that, due to nervousness, they do not make any mistakes.”

One Khadim said that in today’s media, journalists are more likely to present negative news than positive news.

He asked, “How, as Ahmadi Muslims who are doing good work, do we tackle this.”

Answering the question, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa asked if the khadim had seen the interviews Huzooraa had given in the past to the media. He then said, “We are to present to them the true teachings of Islam and show it through our actions and work.”

Huzooraa further said, “The media does publish the work the Jamaat does, such as the New Year’s Day clean-up, peace symposia, charity work and other humanitarian works.” Huzooraa further added that one should study the Holy Quran and know how we can spread its teachings and inculcate them within our lives.

Huzooraa added, “Now, the Review of Religions, Press & Media, MTA Social Media and other teams have started interviewing people on the streets to get their views and promote the true teachings of Islam. Through this, we are able to ascertain their views and the knowledge people have regarding Islam; then, we can present and clarify the concerns they may have.”

One khadim said to Huzooraa that today, many students in colleges and universities are surrounded by people who smoke cigarettes, drink and take drugs. The khadim asked how one can refrain from falling into bad crowds.

Huzoor said, “If you know that so and so is indulged in such things, then you should simply stay away.”

Huzooraa further went on to narrate a

famous incident of a student who visited the Promised Messiahas and told him that his mind was becoming more inclined towards atheistic views and beliefs.

Understanding the situation, the Promised Messiahas told the young student to change his seat in his class.

Upon doing this, the student went back to the Promised Messiahas and said that now, his mind was clear of atheistic thoughts.

Huzooraa said, “You should be aware of your surroundings. This is why the Holy Quran has said to be with the righteous.”

One khadim asked Huzooraa that when the parents have given their child as waqf for the service of religion, then why, at the age of 15-16, are the Waqifeen told to confirm if they wish to carry out their waqf.

Responding to this, Huzooraa said, “Indeed, parents did take this responsibility upon themselves and dedicated their children for this scheme.

This was a desire of the parents, which they had expressed and said that we present our children for this cause.

“The Jamaat says that you have presented your children to this cause, we accept the dedication of your child. Now you should educate this child in such a manner that they become firm and clear in their mind that they are Waqf-e-Nau and they will sacrifice their life for the sake of their faith ...

“When parents educate their children in this way, then children will be capable of dedicating themselves. And another reason that children are asked about this is so that it becomes clear whether the parents have even educated their children this way or not; have they inculcated this within the minds of their children that they are Waqf-e-Nau and they have to dedicate and serve the Jamaat?”

Huzooraa further explained that the mindsets of people continue to change throughout life and so, as children are free and become mature, it is vital to ask

them whether they want to continue the sacrifice of their parents.

Huzooraa said “God the Almighty told Hazrat Abrahamas to sacrifice Hazrat Ishmaelas by cutting his throat with a knife. Did he cut his throat straight away?

He asked Hazrat Ishmaelas [first] that he had a dream and whether he should fulfil it? Hazrat Ishmaelas responded positively, that he should fulfil the dream he saw.

“So he asked him; he did not say that Allah had instructed him to do this [without question]. He asked him and he responded that he should do as Allah had instructed. Then, when both, father and son, mutually consented, this was their sacrifice which was accepted. This sacrifice of Hazrat Ishmaelas and Hazrat Abrahamas was the one that was accepted.

“Then, Allah said that He had observed the passion of sacrifice within him and that he did not need to sacrifice him literally.” Thus, Huzooraa said, “God Himself has left man free to choose his options. We cannot impose anything on anyone.”

Huzooraa further added, “As a Waqfe-Nau, who is to serve religion, one must fashion themselves according to what is required of a waqf. A Waqf-e-Nau should know and be regular in their prayers, be regular in reciting the Holy Quran; a waqf should know the translation of the Holy Quran, read the hadith, study the books of the Promised Messiahas and listen to the words of the Khalifa so that knowledge of religion can increase.

“Wherever you are working in the world, your priority should be religion ...

Even the Companionsra used to work and had their own businesses worth millions and some billions. However they were always ready and eager for Jihad”.

The class concluded after the questions and answers with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

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The world examined Ethics of AI, the Arrival Fallacy and ongoing devastation

This series scans the latest research and developments in the realms of science, academia, technology and geopolitics, providing a glance at the ever changing world

GEOPOLITICS

India: Ongoing devastation The recent riots in New Delhi, India have seen dozens killed and at least 150 injured. The Muslim-Hindu battleground in the capital was described by the BBC as “the deadliest violence the Indian capital has seen in decades” and both Muslims and Hindus have been murdered. However, this time, mosques and the Muslim populace have been hurt more so.

These riots emerged as President Trump toured the capital. “The violence is connected to the continuing protests against India’s divisive citizenship law, but this was the first time that the protests have set off major bloodshed between Hindus and Muslims”, the New York Times reported (nytimes.com, 25 February 2020). The fundamental issue was reported by the paper as being “the citizenship law” issued by Prime Minister Modi’s government that revoked the autonomy of Muslim areas of Kashmir and enforced a citizenship test in northeastern India, that has potentially made millions stateless, most of them Muslim.

The New York Times also noted that the citizen law “makes it easier for migrants of every significant South Asian religion except Islam to become Indian citizens.

Hundreds of thousands of Indian Muslims have protested, joined by students, academics, human rights activists and those worried about the country’s direction. Many of them say the new law is a grave threat to India’s traditions as a secular and inclusive nation.”

The riots and tensions are far from over, and further Hindu-Muslim tensions are feared.

GOOD TO KNOW

The Arrival Fallacy Celebrities, sports stars and the famous are known to commit, at surprise, suicide. The natural question is, why? After all, they had all the wealth they could imagine and the fame to go with it. One reason presented by psychologists relates to the “Arrival Fallacy”. This notion states that human beings, when striving for a goal, feel empty and unfulfilled when they finally achieve the “goal”. Harvard Psychologist, Tal Ben-Shahar in his book Happier: Learn The Secrets To Daily Joy And Lasting Fulfillment described the arrival fallacy as the belief that when one arrives at a certain destination, they’ll “be happier”; however there is always another hill to climb. Achieving a goal may bring temporary happiness but “then the same stress and pressure and emptiness” returns, according to Tal. Others, like George Parsons and Richard Pascale have called this the Summit Syndrome. Humans believe that once they “make it” they’ll be “happy”. But this, according to psychologists, is just a fallacy as there is no real end.

HEALTH

Coronavirus far from over The Coronavirus continues to expand its web and now infects countries outside of China more than inside it for the first time, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Up to date, it has spread across the Middle East and Europe with particularly worrying levels in Italy and Iran. Brazil became the first Latin American country to confirm the coronavirus infection in Brazil. South Korea has also failed to stop the virus from entering its borders

BIOLOGY

despite a desperate try. American health officials have said that it was a matter of “when, not if, the virus would invade American shores” according to the New York Times.

We highly encourage all to begin and continue to take the homeopathic medicine Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, has prescribed (details of the whole prescription can be found in Al Hakam, 7 February, 2020).

Humans and bees have similar brains

Bees provide the foundation of diversity on earth, without them, plants cannot reproduce and there are more than 20,000 species of bees across the world. In a recent discovery “that could open new avenues for understanding of the brain”, scientists have drawn similarities between the brain activity of honey bees and humans. “The research revealed that alpha oscillations in bees (the wave-like electrical activity brains generate) have similar properties as in our human brains” (Phys.org, 26 February, 2020) Paul Szyszka, Lecturer in the University of Otago’s Department of Zoology, said “…as alpha oscillations are associated with brain functions such as; attention, memory, and consciousness, bee brains may provide new avenues to understanding how our own brains work.” He further explained that “…bees can learn to associate odors with food in a similar way to humans.What we want to do now is examine how these alpha oscillations change in different situations. As a neuroethologist, I’m interested in how bees’ alpha oscillations change during natural behaviors, for example when a bee forages or sleeps…” The Lecturer also pointed out the benefits of this study, “By studying the brains of bees we can overcome these limitations and apply that knowledge to research, and eventually perhaps even to treatment, of human brains.” (phys.com, 26 February, 2020)

TECH

Ethical worries about AI and tech As humans begin to closely brush shoulders with Artificial Technology at an astonishing speed, researchers from Imperial College London have suggested setting up regulating frameworks “with which governments can minimise unintended consequences of our relationship with technology.” Their suggestions were published in Nature Machine Intelligence.

Currently there is no internationally accepted regulation of who has (or does not have) access to certain information, for example, data from voice enabled personal assistants like Amazon’s Alexa etc. “The proposed framework, known as the Human Impact Assessment for Technology (HIAT), would be designed to predict and evaluate the impact that new digital technologies have on society and individual wellbeing.

This, they argue, should focus on ethical considerations like individual privacy, wellbeing and autonomy…” wrote Caroline Brogan from Imperial College London. (techexplore.com, 26 February, 2020)

Heart-breaking pain in Syria Millions of innocent Syrians continue to experience atrocities with planes blindly dropping bombs on women, children and men. This war has continued for the last nine years. “Many are living in tents or sleeping out in the open in the freezing cold.

Iman Leila was just one of nine children who died of exposure in recent weeks ... The exodus is the largest of a war that has displaced 13 million people and taken hundreds of thousands of lives, and ranks among the largest in recent history, second only to the flight of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar in 2017.

With about three million residents trapped between a sealed Turkish border to the north and bombs and shells thundering up from the south and east, the crisis has the potential to grow far worse as the government battles to reclaim all of Syria.” Wrote Vivian Yee and Hwaida Saad for the New York Times (nytimes.com, 26 February, 2020) We pray for the world to come to its senses and for absolute justice to prevail

7

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

An appeal for Al Hakam – An “arm” of the Promised Messiah Al Hakam, 21-28 February 1920

Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira First Editor of Al Hakam

I have an inseparable relationship with Al Hakam, but due to the emergence of certain factors in the past, I have been unable to perform some services with respect to Al Hakam, which was the mission and primary objective of my life. I am certainly helpless under the given circumstances, but I am not at all happy [in this state]. It is impossible to express my heart’s condition. Words are not enough for its portrayal.

I am grateful to God and many thanks to Him that by His grace and mercy, He gave the strength to respected Sheikh Mahmud Ahmad Sahib to take the same work in his hands that his father initiated through a special inspiration for 20 years and perform it devotedly. Allahumma zid fa zid [O Allah, increase him in what You have granted him]. What could be more fortunate for me than the fact that my child is keen on serving religion!

The new editor has generously honoured me with the title of Chief Editor. However, I would like the following to be written on the front page of Al Hakam in future: Editors Yaqub Ali Turab Ahmad Irfani Ibn Yaqub Mahmud Ahmad I did not introduce the word “Irfani” with my name. Possessing a desire in my heart, I have taken it from that saying of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II, may Allah be his helper, which he expressed, owing to his benevolence towards the meek and gracious presumption, while mentioning the editor of Al Hakam on the occasion of this year’s Jalsa. He said that dedication cannot be achieved without irfan [divine insight].

I do not have the exact reference, but I have presented the contextual meaning.

Hence, it may well be possible that the words spoken from the mouth of the resolute [Khalifa] are fulfilled by the Benevolent Lord. I have added “Irfani” to my name to seek good omen. People should call me by the same name. It is easy for me to sacrifice thousands of worldly honours over the saying that came out of my master’s mouth.

I request members [of the Jamaat] to also pray that ultimately, I attain the station of irfan.

I do not say it as a formality. I say it as an actual fact that do I not hold any rights over you as a servant of Al Hakam? If I do

say this – and I certainly do – then look!

In keeping with the words that came out of the Promised Messiah’sas mouth, we should continue to maintain the arm [Al Hakam] of the Promised Messiahas. It will be a blessing for you. In the most desperate times of the Jamaat, God Almighty has given Al Hakam the honour of true guidance. Thus, by supporting it, you will not suffer any loss. Thinking that it might be considered self-projection, I have never mentioned this before. However, today, knowing that keeping it a secret would be a sin, I want to tell you that Al Hakam is a sign of God. It is a sign of the Promised Messiahas. Al Hakam was part of the prophecy about the outcome of judicial cases because enemies had filed a case against the Promised Messiahas and on the other hand, Al Hakam had built a case against the enemies, in which the accusers were punished in such a manner that they will be remembered forever. Hence, Al Hakam was a winner in that grand victory and it was a sign of God. Therefore, making an effort for its establishment is as if the sign of the Jamaat is kept alive.

250 rupees a month are required for the permanent expenses of Al Hakam.

This amount can be achieved if a hundred organisations of the Jamaat give 30 rupees per annum. If this support is received by Al Hakam, by the grace of God, I can manage to run Al Hakam as a useful journal in the most suitable manner. There are some old sincere associates of Al Hakam who never hesitate to sacrifice money for it. I hope that … they will continue to sacrifice their money for the sake of Al Hakam. I hope that they consider to end this series of appeals forever.

From today onwards, a fundraiser will be opened in Al Hakam by the name of “Permanent fund for the assistance of Al Hakam.” I start this [fundraiser] by the name of Makhdoom Khan Sahib Maulvi Ghulam Muhammad Sahib, new assistant, Gilgit, who once promised to give ten rupees a month to support Al Hakam on my appeal and kept donating for a while. I am certain that he will continue to do so.

Thereafter, I write the name of a noble person who promised to give me five rupees a month without my request. In fact, I was inspired by him to launch an appeal.

So today, I open a column by the name of “Permanent Fund for the assistance of Al Hakam.” All those amounts will be listed

Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra with his companions during their visit of different religious institutions of India, Lucknow, April 1912. Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira is seen seated on Huzoor'sra right

that shall be promised by the people. This column will be closed as soon as the amount of 250 rupees will be achieved.

People should not worry about offering any sum of money because this matter holds no importance in the way of sincerity and faithfulness. They should remember this couplet of the Promised Messiahas: ‫ئ‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ات�دات ی‬ ‫ا� داری دقمرت مہ زعم ی‬ �‫د‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ت‬ �‫�ار ی‬ ‫فطل نک ام را رظن رب ادنک و ب ی‬ “Those who possess the power and have a desire to serve religion; They should offer as much as they can without worrying if they are giving less or more.”

Permanent fund for the assistance of Al Hakam 1. Khan Sahib Maulvi Ghulam Muhammad Khan Sahib, New Assistant Political Company, Gilgit. (10 rupees per month)

2. Seith Abdullah Bhai Allah Din Sahib, Sikandrabad, Deccan. (5 rupees per

month) 3. Sahibzada Syed Hameed Rizvi, General Building Contractor, Bombay [now Mumbai]. (5 rupees per month) Required: 250 rupees Remaining: 230 rupees Joint Editor Sahib has published one of my lectures on “Khilafat-e-Siddique,” which is, in fact, the notes of my lecture that was delivered in 1917 on a special occasion in Bombay. By the grace of God, it not only gained popularity but also became a cornerstone of the Bombay mission. I will be writing for Al Hakam on a permanent basis from next week. Billahit-taufiq [All strength comes from Allah]. Readers will view my article in the coming week.

I sense a lot of flaws and imperfections in Al Hakam. I will focus on improving them gradually. All these matters require money.

Members of the Jamaat should render their servant free from want [of expenses] and pray for him as well.

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

8

My Maryam Part IV

By Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II and Musleh-e-Maud, may Allah be pleased with him – an obituary written for his late wife, Hazrat Umm-e-Tahir, Syeda Maryam Begum Sahiba, may Allah be pleased with her

Desire to understand one another As I have stated above, due to her illness, my Maryam was often under the illusion that I never loved her or that I loved her less than others. For this reason, she would be pleasant to others, but often times, she would quarrel with me and thus, our life was a mixture of love and disputes. I loved her immensely and seeing her face in times of difficulty would ease my distress.

But she remained firm on her stance that she was loved less than others.

During her final illness, the two ladies who stayed with her in turns both told me separately that she had accepted her mistake.

One of the ladies said, “[Maryam Begum] expressed that she would often think that Hazrat Sahib did not love her, but she said that she was mistaken. She said, ‘The lengths to which he has gone in my illness has proven to me that he indeed loves me dearly. If I come out of this alive, I will give him all the love and respect possible.’”

The other lady narrated, “She told me that she was certain that Huzoor loved her.

She said that if she stayed alive, she would spend the rest of her life in his service.”

Destiny had it that they would both tell me this after her demise. If they had told me during her lifetime, it would have been a source of great happiness for me. I would have gone to her, taken her hand in mine and said, “Maryam, do not worry. You do not need to serve me or show me your love and respect. This thought occurring to you has reciprocated all my love.”

Perhaps she would have felt satisfied by this and my heart would have been overjoyed. If we were able to stand face to face even once in a way that we both understood each other, just for a minute, how joyous would that moment be for the both of us! But this was not in Allah’s plan. Perhaps the misfortune of our shortcomings demanded a huge sacrifice from us.

Sound mind until the last breath The extraordinary thing is that despite such a long illness, Maryam Begum remained in her senses till her last breath.

Two days before her demise, when she had

reached the extremes of weakness, she said to me, “Can you arrange for some small tablecloths.” Thus, I requested Maryam Siddiqa to go by car and select some according to her choice.

When I showed [Maryam] the tablecloths, she was extremely drowsy. But she replied, “They’re nice. Get a dozen of them.”

I thought that she was not in her senses because in the hospital room, there was only one coffee table. I responded, “Alright.

Okay!” and left the room worriedly with tears in my eyes.

After some time, her maid came out from her room and said, “She is calling you.”

As I entered, she immediately overcame her drowsiness, but was still weak. After gesturing to come closer, she told me, “You got so worried. I am in my senses. I did not order the tablecloths for the hospital; I ordered them for our home.”

I feel that her weak heart made her believe this afterwards. The reality is that she was affected by temporary drowsiness, but she understood and saw through my worry.

After assessing the situation, she realised that she had made a mistake, thus correcting the tablecloth issue so that it seemed sensible and explained the logic to me.

Prayer for the visitors During Maryam Begum’s illness, the wife of Sher Muhammad Khan Sahib of Australia, Iqbal Begum offered her services the most. This pious lady served [Maryam] day and night for two and a half months, forgetting about her children and her home in a manner that led me to worry about her mental state. May Allah the Almighty always cover her and her entire family with His shadow of grace.

Then there is Dr Hashmatullah Khan Sahib, who had the opportunity to serve her for a long and continuous period of time. Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sahib hosted us for many months and helped us in so many ways. Mian Ehsanullah Sahib of Lahore worked day and night, to the point where I had to pray that Allah enable him to always live a pious life till the end.

Hakim Sirajuddin Sahib of Bhati Gate, alongside his wife, provided food and would frequently visit us in hospital.

Dr Mirajuddin suffers from Parkinson’s disease and is quite aged. When he would arrive tumbling and huffing and puffing in the hospital and would call me outside to speak to me about [Maryam’s] health, many a time, upon seeing this grace of God Almighty, my eyes would well up with tears; God filled the hearts of people with the love of an unworthy being like me.

Many others from Lahore showed signs of immense sincerity and helped us in so many ways. Seith Muhammad

Ghaus Sahib of Hyderabad showed such a high example of sincerity that is rare even among biological brothers. Despite being at a distant place like Hyderabad, his daughter-in-law and daughters first resided in Qadian for a long period and would often visit [Maryam]. When they finally returned home, Seith Muhammad Azam left his business and settled in Lahore and sometime after the demise did he return home. Dr Latif Sahib visited many times, travelling from Delhi.

Many people from my own family lovingly made many sacrifices. This was

9

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM but their responsibility and other than through prayers, how else can I repay them?

O my Lord! Exalt all these people with Your grace and blessings and those who I have not been able to mention or am unaware of. O my Lord! I feel as though these pious servants of Yours deserve a more sincere and caring leader than me.

What more can I say to intercede for them before You? The sincerity of the Jamaat The sincerity shown by the Jamaat upon Maryam’s demise was a means of increasing our faith. It is the sheer blessing of being associated with Muhammad Rasulullah [Messenger of Allah], peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the Promised Messiah, on whom be peace, that we find such high levels of loyalty in our Jamaat.

May Allah accept their sincerity and loyalty, distance them from wrongdoings and increase them in righteous deeds. May He provide spiritual and moral sustenance for their future generations Himself.

Allahumma amin.

O my Lord! I now conclude this piece and refer to the famous incident mentioned in Bukhari as a reminder by saying that at the time of Maryam Begum’s demise, I attempted to occupy Maryam in Your love, despite my bleeding heart, and sacrificed my emotions so that her soul could eventually return to You, entrenched in Your love. My Dear Lord! If that act was wholly for You and in exaltation of Your Name, then in return, I ask that You remove any painful memories of Maryam from my heart.

My Lord! When Maryam Begum promised to raise the late Amatul Hayy’s children and I promised to love her immensely, I prayed to You that You may instil her love in my heart. You accepted that prayer and despite thousands of misunderstandings, her love never escaped my heart. Today, I ask of You again to let her love remain in my heart so that I may pray for her. But [I ask that You] remove any painful memories so that I may serve Your religion in the best manner, till the very end.

My Lord! I have full certainty that Maryam is now in the Hereafter and that the truths have been made manifest to her.

If You reveal this to her then she will not mind it, rather she will tell You, “In order to purify my heart, my husband urged me in my final hours to forget his love, for God Almighty is our true love and that I should only focus on thinking about Him. Now I intercede for him and ask that You take back the love for me he prayed to You for; not to the extent that he forgets about praying for me, but just enough that this love does not cause him distress and becomes a hindrance in his work.”

A comprehensive prayer for the entire Jamaat O my Lord! How beautiful You are! No one knows when my death will come and for this reason, today, I entrust all my children, my dear ones and the entire Ahmadiyya Jamaat to You. My Lord!

Become wholly theirs and enable them to become wholly Yours. May my eyes and my soul never witness their pain. May they flourish, spread and sprout and may they establish Your Kingdom in the whole world. May they return from this world to You by leaving behind such progeny that is no less in service to Your religion.

O God! Never let me witness their pain and never let my soul feel sorrow for them.

My Lord! Bless the souls of my Amatul Hayy, my Sara and my Maryam. Always come to their help and aid and grant them security from all evil in the Hereafter.

Allahumma amin.

From the depths of my heart O Soul of Maryam! If God Almighty conveys my voice to you, then here, listen to my final message from the depths of my heart and then go and enter the mercies of God where grief ceases to exist; where pain is unknown and where the memory of us earth-dwellers does not trouble anyone. Wassalam َ ّٰ ْ َ ُ ْ ْ ‫َوٓاخ ُِر َد ْعوانا َو َد ْعواک ْم ا ِن ال َح ْم ُد لِل ِہ َر ِّب ال َعال َ ِمی َن‬ [And in the end, our claim and your claim is: All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds] َ َ َ َّ ُ َ َ ِ ْ‫اَب‬ ‫وم َو ل ْیل ٍة‬ ٍ ‫ک ْی عل ْیکِ کل ی‬ ْ َ َ َ ‫ا ْرثِ ْیکِ یَا ز ْو ِج ْی بِقل ٍب َدا ِم ْی‬ I cry for you, every day and every night.

My dear wife! I mourn your death with a bleeding heart. ًَ َ َ ُ ُّ َ ‫ِص ْرت ک َص ْی ٍد ِص ْید ِفی‬ ‫الص ْب ِح غیلة‬ َ ْ َ َ َ َْ ‫اب ع ِّن ْی َمق َص ِد ْی َو م َرا ِم ْی‬ ‫قد غ‬ Upon your death, I became the prey that is trapped in the early hours, whilst searching for food. The shock struck me in a way that made me forget where I was and where I was headed. ُ َ ُ َ َ ‫اع ِد ْی‬ ِ ‫ل ْو ل ْم یَک ْن تأیِید َربِّ ْی ُم َس‬ ً َ ُ ُ َ َ​َ ‫لا ْصب ْحت َم ْی ًتا ع ْرضة ل ِ​ِس َہا ِم ْی‬ Had God’s succour not been at hand, I would have become the target for the arrows of my own heart, thus becoming like carrion. َٰ َ َ َ َ ّ ٰ َ ْ َ َّ ‫اء ل ِن ْجدتِ ْی‬ ‫کن فضل الل ِہ ج‬ ِ ‫ول‬ َْ َ ْ َّ َ ْ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ ‫ام‬ ِ ‫وانقذنِی ِمن زل ِة الاقد‬ But Allah’s grace came to my help, and kept me from stumbling. ّ َ َْ َ ‫یَا َر ِ ّب َس ِت ْرنِ ْی ِبجُ ّن ِة عف ِوک‬ ُ َ ْ ُ ‫اح ِب ْی َو محَا ِم ْی‬ ِ ‫اص ِر ْی َو ُم َص‬ ِ ‫کن ن‬ O My Lord! Protect me with the shield of Your forgiveness; Be my Helper! Be my Companion! Be my Protector! َ ُ​ُْ َ ْ ّ َ ُّ َ ْ َ ‫ام یَاکل ل ْح َم َنا‬ ِ ‫الضرغ‬ ِ ‫الغم ک‬ َ َ ْ ّ َ ُْ ْ َّ َ َْ َ ‫ام‬ ِ ‫الضرغ‬ ِ ‫لا تجعل ِنی لقمة‬ Sorrow is like a lion that eats away at our flesh; God! Prevent me from becoming the morsel to this lion! َ ُْ َ ّ ‫اح ْب َہا بِلط ِفک َدائِ ًما‬ ِ ‫یَا َر ِب ص‬ ْ َ ْ ْ َ ْ َ َ ‫اج َعل لہا َما ًوی بِقب ٍر َسا ِم ْی‬ ‫و‬ O my Lord! Always accompany her and send down Your blessings on her; And make her abode a shrine of eminence. َْ َ َ َ ُ ُ ‫ار ِ ّب ان ِع ْم َہا بِق ْر ِب محَ ّم ٍد‬ ‫ی‬ ْ ْ َ َ ْ ْ َ ْ َْ ْ َ ‫ام‬ ‫ر‬ ‫ک‬ ‫ا‬ ‫ال‬ ‫و‬ ‫ان‬ ‫س‬ ‫ح‬ ‫ا‬ ‫ال‬ ‫و‬ ‫د‬ ‫ج‬ ‫م‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ ‫ذِی ال‬ ِ O my Lord! Bless her with the nearness of Muhammad (Rasulullah), who is bestowed majesty, beneficence and reverence (by

“And when books are spread abroad” – Spreading academic works in Kosovo Besmir Yvejsi, Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Kosovo

The Holy Quran contains an important prophecy about the books and knowledge during the Latter Days when the Messiah would arrive. This prophecy is mentioned in Surah al-Takwir and says: ْ ُ ُّ َ َ ‫الص ُح ُف ن ِش َرت‬ ‫و إذا‬ “And when books are spread abroad”.

Thus it is clear sign that one of the signs of the coming of the Promised Messiah is the distribution and spread of books.

The books of the Promised Messiahas, the books of his Khulafa and the books of other scholars of the Jamaat are an inexhaustible source of knowledge and hidden treasures that are waiting the hands of zealous readers.

By the grace of Allah the Almighty and the prayers of Huzooraa, in the libraries of several cities in Kosovo, books published in Albanian language by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are being distributed.

Books were distributed to the Archive of Kosovo; Institute of History, Ali Hadri; The National Library, Pjeter Bogdani; Institute of Albanology; The Faculty of Philology; Branch of Oriental Studies, Faculty of Philosophy; Faculty of Education; Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo; Faculty of Islamic Studies; a bookstore, Cafe dit’ e nat’; The Inter-Municipality Association of Blind Persons; and finally in the communal library, Hivzi Sulejmani.

Afterwards, the distribution of books continued in the Municipality of Mitrovica, where one of the two branches of the Jamaat is located. Here too, with the help of the local mu‘allim, the distribution was a success and the beneficiaries of the books are the readers and students who attend the Inter-Communal Library, Latif Berisha, in the Municipality of Mitrovica. 15 kilometers from Mitrovica is the Municipality of Vushtrri.

The distribution of books was done in the regional library, Naim Frasheri, where the director of library, Dr Izet Miftari (PhD History) has welcomed the books and said “In the last week of March, our library will organise the Library Day and you will be given a gratitude for your contribution to us”.

The other town is the Municipality of Peja, which is the second branch of the Jamaat in Kosovo. With the help of the local

You).

All worldly loves and sorrows are temporary. True love exclusively belongs to Allah the Almighty. By being at one with Him can we meet with our dear ones and by distancing ourselves from Him can we lose everything.

The things our flawed perceptions consider painful are usually blessings in disguise from God. Thus, I declare that my heart can be false, but my God is True.

Photo of three copies (from left to right) of the book The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam in the library of Faculty of Islamic Studies, in Prishtina, capital of Kosovo

mu‘allim, the books were delivered in two locations: firstly, two copies each of over ten titles, were distributed in the regional library, Azem Shkreli, and secondly, in the university’s library, Haxhi Zeka.

It is noteworthy that the Director of the Azem Shkreli Library, Mrs Shengyl Kelmendi – Gashi, welcomed us to her office and thanked us for the books and invited us as a community or as a publisher to participate in the “The Peja Book Fair 2020”. The fair, which is held each year in June in the Municipality of Peja, will take place over three days, and not only that, but she suggested to us that we can promote one of our publications during the days of the Book Fair.

The books were specifically chosen as readers and students visit these libraries to research on a number of areas. If they research about the existence of God then they can read Ten Proofs for the Existence of God By Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, and if they are interested in religious philosophy and Islam they can read The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam by the Promised Messiahas. To understand the life of the Holy Prophetsa we placed the book Life of Muhammadsa across the libraries and to understand the solution Ahmadiyyat provides for the world crisis, they can read Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V’saa book World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace.

In this way we pray that people come across these books when researching and Allah leads them to the right path, towards Islam Ahmadiyyat. Amin

ّ ُ ٰ َ ّٰ ُ ْ َ ْ َ ‫حال‬ ‫والحمد لِل ِہ ع‬ ٍ ‫لی ک ِل‬ [And all praise belongs to Allah in every condition.]

Seeking God’s grace, Mirza Mahmud Ahmad (Meri Maryam, Anwarul Ulum, Vol. 17, pp. 347-372; Al Fazl, 12 July 1944, pp.

1-8)

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

10 Continued from page 2

world. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Sindh at the time. The Jamaat administration back in Qadian was facing great difficulty in communicating with Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. The situation began to ease as March ended. Interestingly, during the early days of the 1947 riots, the Jamaat in Qadian developed a peace committee comprising of member from all faiths within Qadian. This committee helped secure the area from unrest.

March 1948: The message of the Promised Messiahas was delivered in The Gambia.

March 1949: An Ahmadiyya mosque was inaugurated in Borneo, the largest island of Asia.

At another place in Borneo, an influential person accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat, and in this way, the Jamaat was introduced to the locals.

March 1950: Through a railway gazette, Rabwah railway station was established as an official stop.

March 1955: Hazrat Maulvi Muhammad Saeed Ansari preached the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat to the populace of the eastern shores of Borneo.

The first person to perform Bai‘at from this area was a Philipino named Dantal Mora Yusuf.

to Delhi to attend the meeting of the All India Kashmir Committee. Huzoorra stayed there for around two weeks.

1 March 1933: Hazrat Chaudhry Muhammad Hussainra passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas served as Amir of the Jamaat in Sialkot.

1 March 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra set out for Sindh from Qadian. On this date, Huzoorra reached Lahore to board the train from there.

1 March 1957: The New York mission house building was inaugurated by Hazrat Chaudhry Sir Zafarulla Khanra.

1 March 1958: Waqf-e-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya was established in Qadian.

2 March 1914: The illness of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira intensified.

2 March 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a keynote address in Bradlough Hall, Lahore about the reality of communal tensions and their solution.

March 1956: Sierra Leone commenced the publication of an Arabic language magazine entitled Al Halal al Afriqi.

2 March 1935: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra inaugurated Darul Sanaat (the technical training workshop) established in Qadian. Huzoorra took part himself at the opening by using a filing tool to smooth and shape some wood.

March 1956: Tunisia and Morocco gained independence. Hazrat Chaudhry Sir Zafarullah Khan rendered his valuable services for this cause during his appointment at the United Nations.

2 March 1935: A Jamaat mission was established in Burma. The first missionary was Maulana Ahmad Khan Naseem Sahib who was sent from Qadian, India.

March 1957: Mehta Abdul Khalique Sahib was appointed as the adviser by the government of Eastern Pakistan for its mineral resources.

2 March 1947: The train boarding Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra set off from Lahore station. Members from local chapters received and enjoyed the blessed company of Huzoorra on many railway stations throughout the tour, like Okara, Montgomery (now known as Sahiwal), Multan, Lodhran, Samma Satta, Dera Nawab, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukhar, Rohari etc. Huzoor’sra stay in Karachi lasted a week.

March 1961: An Ahmadiyya mosque in Ghana was constructed.

March 1963: The Jamaat’s mission was established in the fourth city of Uganda. The mission also published its first ever book about the life of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in the local language.

March 1963: The third volume of the English commentary of the Holy Quran was published by the Jamaat.

1 March 1906: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra launched a magazine titled Tashheez-ulAzhan and was also its editor. He was still young at the time and initiated this magazine to defend Islam and sought council from the Promised Messiahas for its launch.

1 March 1909: Madrasa Ahmadiyya in Qadian was established as a separate institution to teach religious knowledge. Earlier, this educational facility was annexed towards secular education.

1 March 1918: The Department of Correspondence was introduced for the first time to assist Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in his official duties. The first person to serve khalifatul masih on this post was Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Nayyarra as officer of correspondence.

1 March 1925: Hazrat Maulana Abul Ata formulated a group of youngsters under the title Anjuman-e-Ahmadiyya Khuddam-e-Islam.

This body served the Jamaat in preparing and publishing informative leaflets for the benefit of the general public.

1 March 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra graced the convocation organised in Islamiyya College, Lahore.

1 March 1932: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled

2 March 1950: Hazrat Hakim Khawaja Karam Dadra passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas lived a very long life, reported as 115 years.

2 March 1951: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered his Friday sermon in Nasir Abad, Sindh and emphasised to enhance tabligh efforts towards the locals of the province. Huzoorra instructed local Jamaat members that they should respect and adopt local customs for their tabligh to be effective.

2 March 1960: Famous journalist and writer, Deewan Singh Maftoon visited Rabwah. His fame originated from his editorials in Riyasat Dehli.

3 March 1899: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra presided over the first ever meeting of Anjuman Hamdard-e-Islam, after being elected as its president.

3 March 1916: Jamaat Delhi organised its threeday Jalsa where Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra message about Islam and other religions was read out.

3 March 1924: Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmadra laid the foundation stone of the building of Talim-ulIslam Middle High School in Kath Garh.

3 March 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a lecture in Habibiya Hall, Lahore on “Religion and Science”. Allah Sheikh Muhammad Iqbal presided over this session and lauded Huzoorra after listening to his speech.

3 March 1948: Ahmadi missionary, Rashid Ahmad Chughtai Sahib established the Jamaat in Oman,

Jordan. The Jamaat convert there was Al Syed Al Haj Muhammad Al Mutayya Sahib, who was from the family of the biggest and most influential tribe of the country. Later, many other family members joined him too and accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat.

3 March 1951: Hazrat Chaudhry Amir Muhammad Khanra of Hoshiarpur passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas performed Bai‘at in 1903.

3 March 1953: During the wave of severe agitations against Jamaat members in Pakistan, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra set up a separate office to manage the smooth flow of messages from the Markaz to the dispersed and far away members of the Jamaat. Later, this office was named Daftar Record.

3 March 1953: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra issued a detailed announcement for Jamaat members in view of the ongoing precarious and terrifying situation due to the Anti-Ahmadiyya agitation.

The weekly Al Faruq published this announcement the next day. In it, Huzoorra reiterated, “My God is rushing towards me to help me. He is with me, He is in me and He will never ever forsake me.”

3 March 1957: The Jamaat Kolkata arranged a Jalsa to raise awareness about the pure lives of the holy founders of various faiths.

3 March 1960: Dr Billy Graham, a famous American evangelist was invited by the Ahmadi Missionary, Sheikh Mubarak Ahmad Sahib for a prayer duel. The Christian missionary avoided the challenge.

4 March 1914: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira wrote down his will about children and the next khalifa.

4 March 1921: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled to Lahore to record his statement as a witness in a court case. Huzoorra delivered some speeches during his stay in Lahore about the need of religion, and the main aim and ways to reach it.

4 March 1944: Hazrat Sheikh Qutubuddin Ahmad Qureshi passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas joined the Jamaat in 1892.

4 March 1944: The Arya Samaj in Qadian convened a three-day memorial event for Pandit Lekhram. To defuse the tension and clarify the historic facts and details, the Jamaat also held a Jalsa on 7 March in Aqsa Mosque. This happened to be the last Jalsa held under the presidency of Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaq Sahib.

4 March 1961: The governor of the state of Maharashtra was presented with Jamaat literature.

5 March 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira established a new neighbourhood in Qadian named Darul Uloom by laying the foundation stone of a new mosque in that area.

5 March 1938: Nawab Akbar Yar Jang inaugurated the Ahmadiyya Markaz in Bombay.

5 March 1941: Hazrat Maulvi Muhammad Abdullahra of Phero Chechi passed away. This companion of the Promised Messiahas performed Bai‘at in 1906.

5 March 1944: Hazrat Syeda Umm-e-Tahir, Maryam Begum Sahibara passed away. She was the respected wife of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and mother of Hazrat Khalifataul Masih IVra. 5 March 1953: Master Manzur Ahmad Sahib was martyred in Baghban Pura, Lahore.

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

How to better spread Islam: UK National Tabligh Conference

Ibrahim Ikhlaf National Secretary Tabligh, Jamaat UK

The National Tabligh Conference UK was held on 8 February 2020. The attendance was 268 and this comprised of Presidents, local tabligh secretaries, Da‘ian ilallah, members of the local tabligh committees and Khuddam.

The purpose of the National Tabligh Conference was to bring together all those engaged in tabligh and train, motivate and enthuse them to take tabligh to new, higher levels. All attendees were given a copy of the National Tabligh Plan.

The conference covered a wide variety of tabligh matters including the National Tabligh Plan, how to use the media [in the field of tabligh] to engage the public and how to respond to allegations. One of the new features of the National Tabligh Conference was the use of the Slido app.

Through this we were able to engage with the audience and obtain live feedback on a variety of matters.

One of the questions the audience was asked was whether they found the

Conference productive. 94% responded by stating that they found the National Tabligh Conference to be beneficial.

The day commenced in the morning with the opening welcome session, which was chaired by Muhammad Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib, the National Secretary Tabligh UK. The recitation and English translation of the Holy Quran was carried out by Regional Missionary, Tahir Khalid Sahib. After this, Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib addressed the gathering and spoke about the persecution faced by the Holy Prophet, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and how he endured great suffering. Nonetheless, he did not waiver in his faith and continued to convey the message of Islam. He said that we should convey the message of Islam Ahmadiyya, even if we face persecution and we should never suffer from an inferiority complex.

After this, Muhammad Sharif Odeh Sahib, Amir Kababir addressed the conference in Arabic (a translation was also provided). Naseem Bajwa Sahib, Regional Missionary, spoke and gave his advice to the attendees.

Canadian Youth unite through Basketball and focus on worship Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

Mohtamim Ishaat, Zahid Chaudhary Sahib and Mohtamim Atfal, Ayaz Warraich Sahib reported that based on the instructions of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa to keep Atfal busy and active, and to stay away from excessive video games, Majlis Atfal-ulAhmadiyya Canada organised the National Ahmadiyya Basketball League. The league was conducted from 8 October 2019 to 11 February 2020.

This year the Ahmadiyya Basketball League for Atfal (ABL) consisted of special training sessions, a very competitive season, playoffs, and a special All-star day. The All-star day included a competitive free throw shootout, three point shootout, skills challenge, and an All-star game for all three age levels of Atfal (Ages 7-8, 9-11, 12-15).

This year 108 Atfal registered for the ABL and participated from across the Greater Toronto Area. Each participant was given a reversible customised jersey and a

basketball upon registration.

One outcome of this year’s Atfal Basketball League was the increased focus Atfal had on prayers. As Salat is the theme of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya this year, all ABL games were scheduled based on the timings of congregational prayers.

The Mayar-e-Kabir (12-15 years old boys) games were four quarters of 8 minutes each, whereas Mayar-e-Saghir (7-11 years old boys) games were four quarters of 5 minutes each.

Through ABL, a strong and unique bond was developed within Atfal across Toronto irrespective of their Majalis or Halqa.

With the success of the National League in Greater Toronto Area, four regions outside of Greater Toronto Area took the initiative to simultaneously begin their own local basketball leagues.

May Allah the Almighty continue to help Atfal develop further focus on their prayers and remain close to the institution of Khilafat. Amin

During the opening session, the following presentations were delivered: • Tabligh plan by Nadim Vanderman • Leafleting campaign by Mia Abdul Wahab • Local strategies for Jamaats by Daniyal Zia • National campaigns by Muzaffar Shah The session concluded with a question and answer session.

After Zuhr and Asr prayers and lunch, the conference re-commenced with a session on “Engaging the Public” [in the field of tabligh]. This session was chaired

by Usman Ahmad Sahib. As part of this session, Bilal Atkinson Sahib spoke about how he accepted Islam and the inspirational role played by Dr Hameedullah Khan and his family in introducing Islam to many English people.

The following presentations were delivered during this session: • “How to engage the public” [in the field of tabligh] by Usman Khan from Markaz Press & Media • “The use of social media” [in the field of tabligh] by Umar Nasser (instead of Tahir Nasser who had to leave the Conference as a result of an emergency), Raja Ataul Mannan and Muhammad Ouiss Soudi.

• “Case Study: The True Islam course” by Zafar Bhatti The next session was on allegations in which Abdul Quddus Arif Sahib, Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya UK addressed the audience and said that in other parts of the world we are denied the rights to carry out tabligh. However, in the West, we have these freedoms and so we should not be afraid to carry out tabligh and we should always be active in it.

The presentations given during this session were: • “Resources available to Jamaat members”

by Umar Nasser Sahib - During this talk, Umar Nasser Sahib showed the wealth of information on the True Islam website regarding allegations and how to respond to them.

• “Practical strategies to tackle allegations”

by Abdul Rauf Lodhi Sahib, Mohtamim Tabligh, Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya and Mudabbir Din Sahib.

The panel answering the questions were Muhammad Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib, Naseem Ahmad Bajwa Sahib, Raza Ahmad Sahib, Usman Ahmad Sahib and Tahir Nasser Sahib. In addition to questions asked from the microphone, the attendees had sent questions using the Slido app and these questions were also responded to.

Mansoor Shah Sahib, Naib Amir UK and Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib, Naib Amir and Missionary in charge UK arrived in Tahir Hall towards the end of the question and session and they also participated in responding to questions.

The closing session was chaired by respected Mansoor Shah Sahib, Naib Amir UK. After the recitation and English translation of the Holy Quran by Naseem Bajwa Sahib, a report of the National Tabligh Conference was delivered by Usman Ahmad Sahib, the Naib Secretary Tabligh UK. After this, the Missionary in charge addressed the gathering and gave advise to the audience on the importance of tabligh and how to carry it out. He spoke about the responsibilities of office holders and

said that prayer was our most important weapon. Mansoor Shah Sahib, the Naib Amir UK gave the concluding address. The conference was brought to a close with a silent prayer.

Dinner was served to all attendees.

9th National Refresher Course, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France Mansoor Ahmad Mubashir, France Correspondent

The 9th national refresher course of the national amila, presidents of the local Jamaats and their amila was held on 15 February 2020 at the national headquarters of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France.

The inaugural session was chaired by Amir Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya France, Ashfaq Rabbani Sahib. After tilawat and its French translation, Amir Sahib presented the opening speech after which the national General Secretary presented the agenda of the Refresher Course.

The first presentation was delivered by the Missionary-in-Charge France, Naseer Ahmad Shahid Sahib. In his presentation, he read some extracts of the Khulafa-eAhmadiyyat about the responsibilities of office bearers, both at national and local levels.

Thereafter, National Secretary Tahrik-e-

Jadid and National Secretary Waqf-e-Jadid presented their presentations and informed the audience about their progress and work.

There are total 20 local Jamaats in France, which were divided in 4 groups. Each group was headed by a missionary and the missionaries were told to brief their groups in Tarbiyyat, Maal and Tabligh.

After the group session, there was an open audience in which all missionaries spoke one by one about their session. There were some questions raised about different issues and many suggestions were also presented.

A seminar on the theme of Nizaam-eJamaat was also held.

There were 2 presentations, one presented

by Mansoor Ahmad Mubashir Sahib, missionary of Jamaat Strasbourg, France on the administrative system of the Jamaat. The other was presented by Bilal Akbar Sahib, missionary of Jamaat Epernay, on the topic of respect and the nizam.

The total attendance of this event was 61.

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

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The frailty of atheism: Islam’s response Mahmood Ahmed Hassan Missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

In the ever-changing world, contemporary waves of atheism have caused people to deviate from religion at astonishing rates.

The British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey for 2018 showed that only 1% of those aged 18-25 in the UK said they were part of Church of England; the survey also noted that the decline of religion was “one of the most important trends in postwar history.” (www.theguardian. com/world/2019/jul/11/uk-secularism-onrise-as-more-than-half-say-they-have-noreligion) The religiously unaffiliated have grown rapidly and the newest major religion of the world is “No Religion” as reported by National Geographic in 2016 (www.nationalgeographic.com/ news/2016/04/160422-atheism-agnosticsecular-nones-rising-religion/). Even in the US, despite its close affinity to Christianity, people not affiliated with religion consist of a quarter of its population (Bullard).

Such a huge tendency should raise alarm bells for us. Being a universal code of conduct, Islam provides abundant proofs for the existence of God and adequately addresses them. Not only does it draw on logic and rationale it, more importantly, it guides one toward communion with God; the ultimate proof.

When debating and discussing in the

academic world, Islam paves way for a mutual ground and emphasises to start the argument with already agreed upon and similar ideas between both groups. In the context of the “‫[ ”اهل الکتاب‬the People of the Book], it presents the following golden principle: َُ َ َ َ​َ ۢ ‫ت َعالَوۡا ِالٰی ک ِل َم ٍۃ َسوَٓا ٍء بَ ۡیننا َو بَ ۡینک ۡم‬ “Come to a word equal between us and you.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.65) While talking to monotheists, we have some similar beliefs and reverence regarding God and His Prophets.

However atheism presents a different case altogether, drawing on present rational and scientific arguments to “prove” their stance. Islam, being a religion of immense support for science, does not shy away from the attacks of atheism. If we ponder upon the base of atheistic claim, it becomes apparent that atheism is merely a castle in the air which shatters itself when faced with the arguments Islam presents.

Relying on scientific truth and negating the ultimate reality cannot be regarded as an act of complete cognizance. It cannot be forgotten that science is still evolving, and its findings, assumptions, facts and figures are prone to change every day. As the base of their assertion is not firm and constant, their argument itself shatters and proves to be unreasonable. Human conscience cannot encompass the vast realities of the universe and perceive the

reach of its intellect to be its universe. The Holy Quran uses a remarkable metaphor for those who have been misled by their so-called “perfect” knowledge. َ ْ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ّٰ ْ ُ ْ ْ ُ َ َّ َ ْ َّ ُ َ َ ْ َ َ َّ ‫ﺂء ك َمﺜ ِل ال َعنک ُـبوْ ِتۚ ِاتخذت‬ ‫ـذین اتخذوا ِمن دو ِن الل ِہ اول ِی‬ ِ ‫مﺜل ال‬ َْ ْ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ​َ ‫بَ ْی ًتا ۖ َو ِا ّن ا ْو َه َن ال ُب ُیوْ ِت ل َ َب ْی ُت ال َعنک ُـبوْ ِت � لَوْ کانـوْا � ْعل ُموْ َن‬ “The case of those who take helpers beside Allah is like unto the case of the spider, who makes for herself a house; and surely the frailest of houses is the house of all the spider, if they but knew!” (Surah al-Ankabut, Ch.29: V.42) A spider-web is a complex structure and the spider performs its best to weave in a manner that it considers unbreakable.

It may be a well-woven and a complex structure, but it cannot withstand harsh weather conditions and the natural wear and tear of nature. For a spider, its primary and ultimate goal is to trap other insects into its web. It is contented with life and thinks its environment to be the whole universe, which it has conquered and considers weaving to be the only science.

The founder of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian, also states in one ‫ ن‬of his couplets: � � ‫ی��ا � دب ر� ےہ �رب یک � � ی‬ � ‫ی‬ ‫اس � �ں ی‬ ‫م اس اک ارض و � ہ� ےہ‬ “The insect that is being pressed down under a layer of manure, in its view, that is the entire world and universe.” (Durr-e-

Sameen, p. 84) If God is present, why can’t we see Him? The basis of atheism (science) negates this question itself. There are many things we experience in our daily lives that we cannot perceive through our eyes; the air we breathe, the fragrance of our favourite fragrance, the taste of a summer barbeque and even human emotions like happiness and sorrow. The world around us is saturated with “invisible” interactions; Wi-Fi, electricity, radio waves – the list goes on.

All of these subtleties can be felt but cannot be seen or appropriately allotted physical dimensions. Why can’t this principle work when it comes to God? Is He not the Most Subtle? After all, if he is the Creator of every universe to exist, and all creation, then, surely, He would be the most hidden as well. The Holy Quran describes Him as: َّ َ ُ َ ُ َُ ْ َْ ‫لا ت ْدرِك ُه الْا ْب َص ُار َو ُهوَ یُ ْدرِک الْا ْب َص َار َو ُهوَ الل ِط ْی ُف الخ ِبی ُر‬ “God cannot be seen with the physical eyes but He reveals Himself to the eyes of man. He is too subtle to be seen by the eye of man, but He is aware of everything!”

(Surah al-An‘am, Ch.6: V.104) Now the question arises that if we cannot see God, how can we experience His existence? God can only be recognised through His attributes. He is “‫[ ”خالﻖ‬the Creator] and presents His flawless creation as a proof of His existence. Moreover, He

Atheists and agnostics in different countries. The Cambridge Companion to Atheism. Cambridge University Press 2007 | Wiki Commons

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM challenges man to reflect upon it and try his best to find a fault. The Holy Quran states: َٰ َ ‫اَلَّ ِذ ْی َخ َل َق َس ْب َع َس ٰم ٰو ٍت ِط َب ًاق‬ ّ ‫اؕما تَ ٰرى فِ ْی َخ ْلق‬ -ؕ‫الرَ ْح ٰم ِن ِم ْن تفوُ ٍت‬ ِ َ ُ َ َ َ ُ​ُ َ َ ْ َْ​َ ْ ْ ‫ف ْار ِج ِع ال َب َص َرۙ َه ْل ت ٰرى ِم ْن فطوْ ٍر ث ّم ْار ِج ِع ال َب َص َر ك ّرتی ِن یَنق ِل ْب ِال َ ْیك‬ ٌ‫ال ْ َب َص ُر َخاس ًئا َّو ُهوَ َحسیْر‬ ِ ِ “...Who has created seven heavens in harmony. No incongruity canst thou see in the creation of the Gracious God. Then look again: Seest thou any flaw? Aye, look again, and yet again, thy sight will return unto thee only confused and fatigued.”

(Surah al-Mulk, Ch.67: V.4-5) The Holy Quran, in this verse, is not only presenting a great proof for the existence of God, but is also educating the world of science. If any flaws are seen in the creation of the universe, then scientists and researchers need to delve further and they will soon realise that the “flaw” was never a flaw in the first place!

This has been proven through many revised theories.

Humans are also a remarkable creation. Allah Almighty says: َْ َ َ َْ ْ ََْ​َ َْ​َ ‫ان ف ِ ْيۤ ا ْح َس ِن تق ِويْ ٍم‬ ‫لقد خلقنا الاِنس‬ “We have created man in the best make.” (Surah al-Tin, Ch.95: V.5) His magnificent creations still contain innumerable mysteries in them, proving the point that they have been created by a Higher Omnipotent Being, who has perfected them on every level that their minute details startle the observer. This excellence seems impossible without a Supreme Creator.

At the same time, Allah has reminded mankind how limited and weak they are compared to God the Almighty: ّٰ ْ ُ ْ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ْ َّ َّ ْ ‫الل ِه ل َ ْن يَ ْخ ُلقُوْا ُذبَ ًابا َولَو‬ ‫إن الذين تدعون من دون‬ ‫اج َت َم ُعوْا ل َ ُه ۖ َو ِإ ْن‬ ِ َ ّ َ ُ َ ُ ْ ُ ْ ُ ْ َ ْ َ ِ َ ّ ً ْ ِ َ ُ َ ُ ّ ُ ُ ِ ْ ُ ْ َِ ُ ‫الطال ُِب َوال ْ َم ْط ُل‬ ‫وب‬ ‫يسلبهم الذباب شيئا لا يستن ِقذوه ِمنه ۚ ضعف‬ “Surely, those on whom you call instead of Allah cannot create even a fly, though they combine together for the purpose. And if the fly should snatch away

Hijab Day: Muslim women talk to the public in The Netherlands Sumbal Naz, National Secretary Ishaat, Lajna Imaillah Netherlands

On 1 February 2020, Lajna Imaillah Rotterdam was able to host a second Hijab day event in Eendrachtsplein, The Netherlands.

This year we acquired permission for double the space we had last year. We made full use of this extra space by having an exhibition about “Women in Islam”. The

anything from them, they cannot recover it therefrom. Weak indeed are both the seeker and the sought.” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.73) Prophets – Signs of God Be it physical or spiritual, God Almighty caters for all the needs of human beings.

He has created resources for subsistence, security, accommodation and welfare.

He did not neglect spiritual nourishment. He sent prophets for the guidance of people from every nation.

Prophet Adamas, Noahas, Mosesas, Jesusas, Zoroasteras, Buddhaas, Confuciusas, as as Krishna , Ram Chandra etc., all were proclaimers and torch-bearers of the same light.

Despite their cultural and territorial differences, they emerged to reform mankind. How is it possible that these prophets, from different parts of the world, without the knowledge of one another, raised the same message and were always successful in their goal?

There was no medium of communication between those remote areas and cultures of the world to which prophets came. Is it a coincidence or a work of a Magnificent Lord? The Holy Quran states: َ َّ َ ُ َ ‫َو ِا ۡن ِّم ۡن ا ّم ٍۃ ِالا خلَا فِ ۡی َہا ن ِذیۡ ٌر‬ “There has been no people in the world but that God raised among them a Prophet for their guidance.” (Surah alFatir, Ch.35: V.25) The same thing is said in another verse: َ ُ ‫قوْ ٍم َها ٍد‬ ‫َول ِك ِ ّل‬ “And there is a Guide for every people.”

(Surah al-Ra‘d, Ch.13: V.8) All of them propagated the message of the presence of a High Being, and claimed themselves to be His messengers.

These were the people whose lives are the examples of truth and piety. The contemporaries have affirmed that they never saw any vices in their person and

exhibition disseminated information with references to the Holy Quran and hadith about the status of women in Islam, rights of women, education, marriage and hijab etc. We also tried to answer many common misconceptions people have in their minds about Muslim women.

As part of the exhibition, we displayed the Holy Quran in three different languages, as well as various books and literature.

Visitors were welcome to look around our exhibition with a warm cup of tea or coffee, along with a sweet treat.

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, just like our previous experience, we were welcomed very warmly by the public who showed great interest in our message. People of all ages, men and women alike, took time out to have a look around and engage in meaningful conversation. Over 60 people in total visited our exhibition, out of these, there were 35 ladies who were eager to try on the headscarf to see how it looked, and even to see how it felt. The ladies always had a positive reaction on wearing the headscarf,

conduct. The testimony of the righteous of all ages cannot be neglected. How can a person of such a high stature and morality lie about the existence of God? Atheists would be flabbergasted to know that almost all the known and practiced religions of the world have prophesied the second advent of their reformers in the latter days. Moreover, all of them contain similar signs and qualities.

Muslims await the Mahdi, Jews await Elijah, Christians await Jesus, Hindus await Krishan Avatar, Zoroastrians await Saoshyant and Buddhists await Maitriya etc.

God Almighty revealed to the Promised Messiahas that he was the longawaited saviour of the latter days, by naming him: َْ َ ّٰ ‫َجرِ ُی الل ِہ فِی ُحل ِل الْان ِب َیا ِء‬ “The Champion of Allah in the mantle of the Prophets.” (Tadhkirah, p. 100) The fulfilment of prophecies, against all odds, also serves to prove the existence of an All-Knowing and All-Aware God, Who reveals the unseen unto His beloved ones. The world confronts and opposes them, but the word of God remains as a solid immovable rock. Such predictions are beyond the capacity of a human to forge. The Promised Messiahas states: ‫یت‬ ‫د�ا ےہ قح وبثت‬ ‫دقرت ےس اینپ ذات اک‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ہ‬ ‫اس ےب اشنں یک رہچہ امنیئ � وت ےہ‬ ‫سج ابت وک ےہک ہک رکوں اگ ی‬ ‫م �ی رضور‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ی‬ ‫یتلٹ ہ ی‬ ‫� وہ ابت دخایئ ہ� وت ےہ‬ “God provides evidence of His existence with His Omnipotence; For the Invisible One, that indeed, is the only way of showing His countenance.

“When He says that He will certainly do something; That becomes inevitable; indeed, this is Godhood.” (Durr-eSameen, p. 182) The need for religion and God

and left us with encouraging and motivating words.

Most people who visited us were happy to see the initiative we had taken to bring the hijab into light, they felt it was an important thing to do so that the negative stereotypes surrounding the hijab could be eliminated.

Engaging in conversation with Muslim women themselves, also put away any thoughts in their minds about the free will

Atheists have been misled by the notion that the primary motive of all religions of the world is to propagate good moral qualities in their followers, and for its fulfilment, the fear of God is imposed to ensure the condition of law and order.

Islam presents the need of religion and the motive behind the creation humanity in these words of the Holy Qruan: َّ َ ْ َ َّ ْ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ‫نس إِلا ل َِي ْع ُب ُد ْو ِن‬ ‫وما خلقت ال ِجن وال ِإ‬ “And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.”(Surah adh-Dhariyat, Ch.51: V.57) This argument is further explained in a hadith-e-qudsi [a hadith which relates a revelation from God in the words of the Holy Prophetsa] where God discloses the reason of creating the universe. It states: ‫كنت كنزا مخفيا فاحببت ان اعرف فخلقت الخلق‬ “I was a hidden treasure. I desired to be discovered, so I created the creation.”

(Tafsir Mazhari, 303/10) The need of religion is to fulfil God’s will; to be discovered and worshipped.

The real motive is to attain perfect union with God. There is a higher pedestal of spirituality above moral qualities and that can be only achieved with a strong bond with Allah the Almighty. The Promised Messiahas said that while many atheists may be moral people, only believers can advance to the higher degrees of spirituality.

“Mere acquisition of moral qualities does not bestow spiritual life upon a person. A person who denies the existence of God can yet exhibit good moral qualities, such as to be humble of heart, to seek peace, to discard evil and not to resist the evil-monger. These are all natural conditions, which may be possessed even by an unworthy one who is utterly unacquainted with the fountainhead of salvation and enjoys no part of it. Many animals have a gentle disposition, and can Continued on page 15

or lack thereof, women have surrounding the hijab.

Hearing from us directly that the hijab does not oppress us, but in fact gives us the freedom to explore our inner capabilities, which rise far higher than our outward appearance, so with this, we are able to make a positive and definitive impact in our communities.

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Muslim Mexicans vie to spread Islam: The first muallim course in Mexico Jamaat Amen Aqeel Haider Mexico Correspondent

Sabahat Ali Sahib, a missionary, reports that home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Mexico boasts both the smallest volcano on Earth, and the largest population of people who call Spanish their first language. That’s right - there are more people who speak Spanish in Mexico as their first language than in all of Spain. Hence, the need for Spanish-speaking preachers as expounded by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, time and time again, cannot be understated.

Although today, most people see Mexico as synonymous with a sunny vacation laden with cascading aquamarine tides against golden beaches, it is a country which has faced centuries-old subjugation and strife, and has in many ways soldiered past much of it. There was a time when 1% of its population (nearly 250,000 people) were killed, per annum, by the ancient Aztecs as “necessary” human sacrifices. The single largest pyramid in the world is also actually in Mexico.

Yet, with the mammoth influx of Spaniard Christianity, today, over 80% of its population is actually Roman Catholic.

From the dozens of tribal gods which were worshiped once upon a time, Mexico has now transformed to the tri-unity falsely attributed Christ. It is against this socioreligious backdrop that the trumpet of God’s indivisible and true Unity is being blown by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Mexico. The last half-decade has witnessed an incredible influx of local Mexicans turning to Islam, and by God’s boundless grace and the invaluable guidance of our beloved Huzooraa, Jamaat Ahmadiyya Mexico has inaugurated its very first “Muallimin Course” on 8 February 2020.

A muallim is a local Muslim religious teacher and preacher - often a national of the country he serves in. Thus, he enjoys a special understanding of and relationship with the people and culture of his appointed place. After all, he’s one of them. The purpose of this course is to train and equip such dedicated Mexican Ahmadi Muslims toward understanding and propagating the beautiful teachings of Islam by word and through their personal examples. In addition to the scholastics of Ahmadiyya literature, the course hopes to provide specialised training regarding particular beliefs which are the basis of Mexican Christianity. These include the hugely worshipped Virgin of Guadalupe and long-running erroneous

doctrines regarding the return of the dead, which is actually the basis of Halloween celebrated all over the globe.

This course will take place in Baitul Afiyat, Mexico city, which serves as the headquarters of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Mexico. There are three students from different states of Mexico who have enrolled in this course.

José Vicente Briones León Sahib from Mexico city who is 48 years old, Francisco Iván Padrón Herrera Sahib from Merida who is 42 years old, and Luis Fernando Gómez Gómez Sahib from Chiapas who is 22 years old. All three of these students are converts to Islam Ahmadiyyat and by the grace of Allah the Almighty, are very dedicated Ahmadi Muslims.

This course is intended to last 6-9 months and in this period, these students will be learning a variety of different subjects.

Their main subjects will be the Holy Quran, hadith, literature of the Promised Messiahas, and comparative religions.

May Allah the Almighty bless the students and organisers, and suffuse this humble undertaking with unprecedented acceptance. May these students become shining minarets of obedience to Khilafat and carry the ointment of the Promised Messiahas to the enormous population of Mexico.

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

We are happy There are no stories left to tell; You know them all, you know them well and are at liberty to choose the ones to keep, the ones to lose.

Between the fiction and the facts, between the diction and the acts, we let the truth go unaddressed and simply say we tried our best.

But that’s the age of progress, no?

Where lies, deceit and egos grow and soon the truth is not so great, so mirrors do we learn to hate.

Hadith in Commentary

Two orators and the meaning of sehr (magic) in ahadith

This age of new technology; a time to look but not to see; a time to say you’re doing well, to wear a mask, to wear a shell.

It’s easier just not to feel, to close your eyes so it’s not real, to switch the channel, mute it out as words in papers scream and shout.

To know that men and women die, to know that bombs and bodies fly in wars fought simply for the fun of watching other humans run.

It’s easier just not to ask, so not to be taken to task; The truth is burdening to know just feign a smile, put on a show.

We dare to judge the girl and boy whose only plaything, only toy was remnants of the bomb we threw upon their friends and parents too.

“They should be grateful”, we exclaim about the immigrants that came; The agony of little girls being but strangers in the world.

Who won’t stop asking where we are, or why we left or that the scar left by the absence of her friends is making it so hard to mend.

The kids, they jest and mock and throw; How can her new mates even know that every night the hellish dreams are breaking her to smithereens?

And so the Information Age is beautiful as any cage, painted with murals of the free, with blood from those we cannot see.

There are no stories left to tell; You already know them so well and are at liberty to choose the ones to keep, the ones to lose.

(Sabahat Ali, Mexico)

Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra

Once, two very talented and eloquent orators came to Mecca from Najad. In Mecca, they delivered an astoundingly eloquent and impactful speech that left the inhabitants of Mecca astonished and speechless. Even the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, applauded their address and said: َ ً ‫ان من البیان لسﺤرا‬ “Surely, some speeches are magic”.

Some take the meaning of sehr to always, literally, mean “magic” and “spells and charms”; for this reason, they face great difficulty in understanding some parts of Continued from page 13

be trained to become wholly peaceful and not to react savagely to chastisement, and yet we cannot call them human, let alone humans of high status. In the same way, a person who is entirely misguided and even suffers from some vices, can exhibit these qualities.” (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp. 19-20) Why has God kept Himself physically hidden?

Life is a journey and God has given us the abilities to choose between right and wrong. We will be rewarded on account of our actions and ultimately, everyone will certainly end up believing in God in the Hereafter. But, in this world, the test

the Holy Quran. The hadith mentioned [above] negates those who hold this view, that sehr always literally means magic etc.

The [Arabic] etymology of sehr is ‫َما َدق‬ ُ​ُ َ َ َُ​َ ‫ ولطﻒ مأخذه‬i.e. that thing whose origin is very subtle and elusive. For this reason, the word sehr is used for those material means that are applied to either benefit or cause harm to someone, but whose knowledge the recipient has no knowledge of prior to it. This also goes for non-material means that are extremely discrete and cause harm or benefit.

In terms of oratory, not every speaker has the same effect. It is the arguments presented by the speaker that have an effect or the

manner of their delivery and how much eloquence God has given them. Impactful arguments and eloquence are things which cannot be seen. For this reason, the hadith cited means that some speeches that are full of irrefutable arguments and strong proofs while also delivered in the most eloquent and impactful manner, can also be called sehr (magic).

is to believe in God while not being able to “physically” see Him, rather one has to feel and understand the existence of God at a much higher level of consciousness, as opposed to sight. Allah desires for us to merge with Him, not to be distant observers. The lack of a physical presence of God is certainly a test for all of humanity which relies on sight as the ultimate proof of existence. This challenge has been described by Allah in the following words: َ ُ​َُ ُ ُ ‫ل َِی ْبلوَک ْم أ ّیک ْم أ ْح َس ُن َع َملًا‬

like God and also exerts his utmost to serve His creation is the test. Eventually, our actions will decide whether we are successful or not.

“That He might try you—which of you is best in deeds.” (Surah al-Mulk, Ch.67: V.2) Leading a life where one seeks the spiritual image of God and tries to become

(Originally published in Al Fazl on 13 April 1940 in the form of notes taken by Mahmood Ahmad Khalil Sahib from the lectures on hadith by Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra, a scholar of hadith and brother-in-law of the Promised Messiahas)

Why God desired to create man?

Humans, according to Islam, have been created to reflect, adopt and manifest the attributes of God. For example, He is ‫( معبود‬the One who is worshipped), but how can He be worshipped when there is no one to praise or glorify Him. So the creation of an ‫( عابد‬worshipper) becomes indispensable. How could there be a ‫محمود‬ (praised one) without a ‫( حامد‬the one who praises).

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Friday Sermon Men of Excellence 31 January 2020 After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

The name of the companion who I will mention today is Hazrat Abu Talhara. The actual name of Hazrat Abu Talha Ansarira was Zaid. He belonged to the Ansar tribe of Khazraj and was the chief of his tribe and he was more commonly known by his title of Abu Talha. The name of Hazrat Abu Talha’sra father was Sahl bin Aswad and the name of his mother was Ubada bint Malik. Hazrat Abu Talhara had the opportunity to pledge initiation at the

hands of the Holy Prophetsa during the second pledge at Aqaba. He participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in all the battles, including the Battle of Badr.

When Hazrat Abu Ubaidara bin Al-Jarrah migrated to Medina, the Holy Prophetsa formed a bond of brotherhood between him and Hazrat Abu Talhara. Hazrat Abu Talhara was of a wheat colour complexion and of moderate height and he had never dyed his hair or beard; he kept his hair in

its natural condition. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 5, pp- 183-184, Abu Talha Ansarira, Vol. 2, p. 150, Zaid bin Sahl, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2003) Hazrat Anasra was the stepson of Hazrat Abu Talhara and was the son of his wife’s former husband. Malik bin Nazar was the former husband of Hazrat Umme-Sulaimra and following his demise, Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra married Hazrat Abu Talhara, through whom Abdullah and

Umair were born. (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 124, Dar-ul Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2010) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 383, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Umdatul Qari, Vol. 4, p. 124, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001) Hazrat Anasra narrates that Hazrat Abu Talhara sent a marriage proposal to Umm-e-Sulaimra. She replied, “By God, I would not have any objection to marrying someone like yourself. However, you are

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Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM an idolater and I am a Muslim.” This is a narration from Sunan al-Nasa‘i. She stated that she was a Muslim woman and it was not permissible for her to marry him. She said, “If you were to accept Islam, then I would consider this very act in itself to be my dowry and I would not ask of anything else.” Hazrat Abu Talhara accepted Islam and this was declared to be her dowry. Hazrat Thabitra used to say that “until this day, I have not heard of any woman’s dowry to be as honourable as that of Umm-e-Sulaimra.” (Sunan al-Nasa‘i, Kitab-un-Nikah, Bab At-Tazawwuj AlalIslam, Hadith 3341) Hazrat Abu Talhara participated alongside the Holy Prophetsa in the Battle of Badr. Hazrat Abu Talhara narrates that on the day of Badr, the Holy Prophetsa passed a verdict that twenty-four chiefs from among the Quraish to be thrown into one of the feculent wells situated in Badr. Whenever the Holy Prophetsa was victorious over a people, he would stay in the battleground for three nights.

When the Holy Prophetsa stayed in Badr and the third day approached, he ordered for the saddle to be placed on his camel, which was subsequently prepared. The Holy Prophetsa then set off and the Companionsra also joined him. The Companionsra stated that they thought that perhaps the Holy Prophetsa set off for a particular reason. The Holy Prophetsa then reached the well and stood over the well where the bodies of the 24 men had been thrown. This was a closed well. The Holy Prophetsa began to call their names as well as the names of their fathers that “O son of such and such person! Had you obeyed Allah and His Messenger, would you not have rejoiced now? Verily, we have received what our Lord had promised us but have you also received what your lord had promised you?” Hazrat Abu Talhara narrates that Hazrat Umarra submitted, “O Messengersa of Allah! What are you saying to these lifeless corpses?” The Holy Prophetsa stated, “I swear by Him in Whose hands lies the life of Muhammad!

You are not hearing these words any more than they are hearing them.” That is, Allah the Almighty was now relaying these words to them to signify how terrible their end was. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Bab Qatli Abi Jahl, Hadith 3976) Hazrat Anasra relates that when the Battle of Uhud took place, people dispersed from Holy Prophetsa after being defeated. Hazrat Abu Talhara, however, remained in front of the Holy Prophetsa and stood resolutely behind his shield in front of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Abu Talhara was an archer who would pull the string of his bow very forcefully. He had broken two or three bows that day.

In other words, he would pull the bow so forcefully that the string of the bow would snap.

The Holy Prophetsa instructed anyone who passed by with a quiver to give it to Abu Talhara. In other words, the Holy Prophetsa would instruct others that there were plenty of archers and that they should instead give their arrows to Abu Talhara, who at that particular moment was standing in front of the Holy

Prophetsa. Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa would raise his head and look at the people, upon which Hazrat Abu Talhara used to say: ُ َْ َ ّٰ َ َْ َ َْ ‫ نح ِر ْی ُد ْو َن نح ِرک‬،‫ لَا یُ ِص ْی ُبک َس ْہ ٌم‬،ِ‫ِبأ ِب ْی أن َت َوأ ِّم ْی یَا َر ُسوْ َل اللہ‬ “O Messengersa of Allah; may my parents be sacrificed for your sake! Please do not raise your head and look around, lest an arrow of the enemy strikes you. I stand with my chest guarding you.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Maghazi, Bab Idh hammat Ta’ifatani minkum…, Hadith 4096) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, pp. 383-384, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates that Hazrat Abu Talhara would shield the Holy Prophetsa with the very same shield [that he was using]. Hazrat Abu Talhara was an excellent archer. When he fired an arrow, the Holy Prophetsa would look at where it landed. This is a narration from Bukhari. The previous narration was also from Bukhari as well. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jihad, Bab al-Mubhin wa man Yatrusu bi tarsi Sahibah, Hadith 2902) During the Battle of Uhud, it is mentioned that Hazrat Abu Talhara would recite the following couplet: َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ َ‫ک الْوق‬ ‫اء‬ ِ ‫وج ِہ ْی ل ِوج ِہ‬ َ ْ َ ْ َْ َ ُ ‫ک ال ْ ِف َد‬ ‫اء‬ ‫ونف ِسی ل ِنف ِس‬ “My face is there to protect your blessed countenance and I am every ready to offer my life for your sake.” (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 4, Musnad Anas bin Malik, Hadith 13781, Alamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates, “The Holy Prophetsa said to Hazrat Abu Talhara, ‘Search someone from among your young men, who may assist me so that I may embark on the journey to Khaybar.’ Hazrat Abu Talhara placed me (that is Hazrat Anasra), on the back of his mount and took me with him.” Hazrat Anasra relates, “I was a young boy at that time and had almost reached the age of adolescence. I would serve the Holy Prophetsa and when the Holy Prophetsa would dismount, I would often hear him recite the following prayer: َْ ْ ْ ْ ْ ْ َ ّ َ ْ َ َ ُ ْ ُ َ ْ ّ َّ ُ ّٰ َ ‫حزن َوال َع ْج ِز َوالک َس ِل َوال ُبخ ِل َوال ُجبْ ِن‬ ‫اللہم ِإنِی أعوذبک ِمن الہم وال‬ ِ َ َ َ ْ َّ ِ َ َ َ ِ َ ‫الر‬ ّ َ ‫ال‬ ‫ج‬ ‫ۃ‬ ‫ب‬ ‫ل‬ ‫غ‬ ‫و‬ ‫ن‬ ‫ی‬ ‫الد‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ ‫وضل ِع‬ ‘O Allah, I seek refuge with You from worry and grief, from incapacity and laziness, from miserliness and cowardice, from being burdened with debt and from being overpowered by others.’” (Sahih Bukhari, Kitabul Wasaya, Bab Istikhdamal Yateem fi As-Safar Wal-Hadar, Hadith 2768) In another account of Hazrat Anasra, which is from Bukhari – as was the previous narration – he states, “When the Holy Prophetsa arrived in Medina, he had no servant. Hazrat Abu Talhara held my hand, brought me to the Holy Prophetsa and said, ‘O Messengersa of Allah, Anas is an intelligent child, he can be of service to you’”. Hazrat Anasra then says, “I served the Holy Prophetsa on journeys and also whilst he remained in his residence. The Holy Prophetsa never questioned me as to why I carried out a task the way I did, similarly, if there was a task I failed to

undertake, he would never ask me why this was the case.” i.e., he would never admonish him. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jihad wa As-Siyar, Bab Man Ghazaa bi Sabyi lil-Khidmah, Hadith 2893) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik narrates that he was with the Holy Prophetsa when he returned from Usfaan (a place situated between Mecca and Medina). At the time, the Holy Prophetsa was riding his camel and had seated Hazrat Safiyyahra bint Huyayy behind him. All of a sudden, the camel stumbled, causing them both to fall. Hazrat Abu Talhara immediately dismounted his camel, saying, “O Messengersa of Allah, may I be sacrificed for you!” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “First enquire about the lady”. Hazrat Talhara drew a cloth over his face as he went towards Hazrat Safiyyahra, and then placed that cloth over her (which shows how much regard he had for purdah).

Thereafter, he readied the camel for them to mount once again and they all formed a ring around the Holy Prophetsa. When they reached near the outskirts of Medina, the Holy Prophetsa stated: َ ُ ُ ‫آئِ ُب ْو َن تائِ ُب ْو َن َعابِد ْو َن ل ِ َربِّ َنا َحا ِمد ْو َن‬ “We are those who return, who repent before our Lord, who worship Him and praise Him.” The Holy Prophetsa continued to recite these words until he entered Medina. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jihad wa As-Siyar, Bab Ma Yaqulu Idhaa raja’a min al-Ghazwi, Hadith 3085) In regard to this incident, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “On one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa was returning from the Battle of Khaybar, and alongside him was his wife, Hazrat Safiyyahra, when the camel suddenly stumbled in its path, consequently causing both to fall off. The camel of Hazrat Abu

Talha Ansarira was directly behind them, so he, at once, dismounted his camel and said, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! May I be sacrificed for you! Have you sustained any injury?’ When Hazrat Abu Talhara approached close to the Holy Prophetsa, the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘O Abu Talha!

First go to my wife, go see to my wife.’”

The Holy Prophetsa said this twice.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra explains, “Hazrat Abu Talhara had infinite love for the Holy Prophetsa and when the question ever arose about the life of the Holy Prophetsa, his attention would be on no other person, yet the Holy Prophetsa told him to go and check on his wife first.” (Uswa-e-Hasanah, Anwarul Ulum, Vol. 17, p. 126-127) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra presented this account whilst discussing the rights of women.

Hazrat Anasra relates: “The Holy Prophetsa launched an attack on Khaybar and we offered the morning prayer when we had approached near Khaybar, whilst it was still dark. The Holy Prophetsa then mounted his camel and as Hazrat Abu Talhara mounted his, I sat behind him on his camel. The Holy Prophetsa made his camel run fast in the valley of Khaybar and my knee was rubbing against the thigh of the Holy Prophetsa as they were so close to one another. Then, due to the heat, or perhaps for comfort, the Holy Prophetsa removed the cloth from his thigh” i.e. lifted it a little from his leg or his knee, “until I could see the whiteness of his thigh.” By “thigh”, it means the part just above the knee.

“When the Holy Prophetsa entered the village, he stated: ْ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ ّٰ َ َ ‫ت َخ ْیب َ ُر إنَّا إ َذا ن َ َزل ْ َنا ب َس‬ َ ‫اح ِۃ قَ ْوم فَ َس‬ ‫اللہ أکبر خ ِرب‬ ‫اء‬ ٍ ِ َ ِ ِ ُ ‫َص َب‬ ُ ‫اح‬ ‫الم ْنذ ِریْ َن‬ ‘Allah is great! Khaybar is destroyed.

Global Peace & Islam Forum in Leeds, UK Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Missionary-in-Charge UK

Shoaib Nayyer Sahib, President of the Leeds Jamaat, UK reports that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Leeds was able to organise a tabligh forum on 16 February 2020, at Roundhay Parochial Community Hall, Leeds. The topic of the event was “Global Peace and Islam”.

There were numerous pull up banners containing a summary of the charitable work done by the community in different parts of the world. Before the start of the program a presentation was displayed that introduced Islam Ahmadiyyat, its charitable works, achievements and sayings from historians, writers and world leaders about the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Peace efforts and visits made by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa were also covered in the presentation.

The Imam of The London Mosque, Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib graced the occasion as the keynote speaker. The programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by English translation. Dr Asim Salim, Vice President of Leeds Jamaat gave a brief welcome address. Respected Mubarak Ahmad Basra Sahib was then invited to present a

short introduction of the Jamaat, followed by a short documentary on Jamaat-eAhmadiyya.

The keynote address was then delivered

by Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Sahib. His speech was very inspiring and he quoted various verses from the Holy Quran about peace, love, harmony and also elaborated how peace can be established in the society.

He shed some light on the actual teachings of Islam and quoted a few examples from the time of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa ; portraying how peace was promoted during his time.

His address was followed by a question and answer session.

In the end, Rebecca Taylor from Ruth Goarse Academy Leeds thanked the event organisers on behalf of the guests.

All the guests enjoyed the event and found it very beneficial and inspiring. They specially commented on the fact that this event gave them a better understanding of Islam and its beautiful peaceful teachings. They appreciated the efforts of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association in spreading the true teachings of the Holy Quran.

In total 26 guests attended the event.

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When we come to a people, it is an evil morning for those who have been warned of the impending wrath of God.’ The Holy Prophetsa repeated this phrase three times.”

Hazrat Anasra continues, “When people came out of their homes to attend to their work, they said, ‘[It is] Muhammadsa – Abdul Aziz used to say that some of our companions also used to add the word khamees (i.e. army) in addition to the name of the Holy Prophetsa.’”

Hazrat Anasra states, “We conquered it [Khaybar] in battle and the prisoners of war were gathered together. Hazrat Dihyah Kalbira came and said, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! Grant me a femaleservant from among these prisoners.’ The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘Go and choose a female-servant.’ He then chose Huyayy’s daughter, Safiyyah. Thereupon, someone approached the Holy Prophetsa and said, ‘O Prophetsa of Allah! You have handed the daughter of the chief of the Quraizah and Nadeer tribe, Safiyyah bint Huyayy, to Dihyah; whereas she is only suitable for you.’ The Holy Prophetsa then said, ‘Bring both of them here’. So he went and both Safiyyah and Dihyah came to the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa said to Dihyah, ‘Choose any other of the prisoners.’”

Hazrat Anasra relates further, “The Holy Prophetsa then freed Hazrat Safiyyahra and later married her.”

Thereafter, Hazrat Thabitra asked Hazrat Anasra, “What did Abu Hamza, i.e. the Holy Prophetsa give her in dowry?” to which he answered, “He freed her and then married her, so her freedom was the dowry.” And whilst they were still returning from the expedition, Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra prepared Hazrat Safiyyahra for the Holy Prophetsa and their wedding took place. The following day the Holy Prophetsa stated, “If anyone possesses something, let him bring it forward” and he lay out a leather cloth.

Some people brought dates, whilst others brought clarified butter.

Abdul Aziz says, “I believe that he also mentioned sattu [parched grain of barely] as well.” He then said that this was then all mixed together and knead. This was the walima [marriage] proceedings of the Holy Prophetsa. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabus Salat, Bab Yudhkaru fil Fakhdhi, Hadith 371) In another narration, it is mentioned that after the conquest of Khaybar, Hazrat Safiyyahra fell in the lot of Hazrat Dihyahra. Many companions – it was not just one companion, rather many of the companions – came to the Holy Prophetsa and spoke words of praise for Hazrat Safiyyahra and also that with respect to her status and rank, it would be befitting if the Holy Prophetsa chose her for himself, i.e. to take her in marriage. Thus, the Holy Prophetsa sent a message to Hazrat Dihiyahra and took Hazrat Safiyyahra in exchange for seven prisoners. He then instructed Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra to look after her. Then, as was mentioned earlier, the Holy Prophetsa married Hazrat

Safiyyahra. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 8, pp. 97-98, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa stated, “On this day (i.e. on the day of the Battle of Hunayn) whosoever kills a disbeliever, he will be granted the wealth and possessions of the one he kills [as their spoil from the battle].” On that day, Hazrat Abu Talhara killed 20 disbelievers and took their wealth [as spoils from the battle]. Hazrat Abu Talhara saw Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra with a dagger in her hand and asked, “O Umm-e-Sulaimra, what is the purpose of this?” She replied, “I swear by God! It is my intention that if a disbeliever passes within range, I would strike this dagger and pierce his abdomen.” Hazrat Abu Talhara informed the Holy Prophetsa about this incident. This narration is found in Sunan Abi Daud. (Sunan Abi Daud, Kitab al-Jihad, As-Sulbi Yu’ti al-Qatil, Hadith 2718) Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa said the sole voice of Abu Talhara was louder and heard above all others in his battalion. The traditions also cite “100 soldiers” and “1,000 soldiers” rather than a battalion – in others words, Hazrat Abu Talhara had a very powerful voice. (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 4, p. 286, Musnad Anas bin Malik, Hadith 12119, Alamul Kutub, Beirut, 1998) (Al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 4, p.

261, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilimiyyah, Beirut, 1992) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 383, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) In 34 Hijri, Hazrat Abu Talhara passed away at the age of 70 in Medina and his funeral was led by Hazrat Usmanra.

However, according to the people of Basra, he passed way during a journey on sea and was buried on an island. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

385, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Anasra relates that during the lifetime of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Abu Talhara would refrain from voluntary fasting as he wanted to preserve his strength when engaging in Jihad. Hazrat Anasra further relates that after the Holy Prophetsa passed away, he observed that Hazrat Abu Talhara kept fasts every single day except on Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. In other words, he started regularly observing fast after this. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jihad wa as-Siyar, Bab Man Ihktara al-Ghazwa alaa as-Saum, Hadith 2828) We find the following example of the hospitality of Hazrat Abu Talhara. Hazrat Abu Hurairara narrates that a man came to the Holy Prophetsa, upon which the Holy Prophetsa asked someone to send word to his wives. They replied that they had nothing except water to offer. The Holy Prophetsa then asked who would help take care of this guest. Amongst the Ansar, one replied “I will”. Thus, the Ansar took this guest along with him and told his wife to extend the best hospitality possible as this was the guest of the Holy Prophetsa.

His wife replied that they had no food to

give as all that was left was barely enough to feed their children. Her husband told her to prepare that remaining food for the guest, light up the oil lamp and when evening dinner time arrived, to put the children to bed. Thus, his wife prepared the food, lit up the oil lamp and tucked the children into bed. Then she got up and acted as if fixing the oil lamp and blew the candlelight off. Thus, the husband and wife made it appear as if they too had been eating, however they, in fact, spent the night on empty stomachs. In the morning, he went to the Holy Prophetsa who said, “Today Allah the Almighty smiled upon your act”, or he stated that “Allah the Almighty was extremely pleased with this act of theirs”. Then the following revelation was revealed: ٌ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َْ​َ ْ َُْ َٰ َ ُْ ُْ َ ْ َ َّ ُ َ ُ ‫اصۃ َو َم ْن ّیوْق شح نف ِس ٖہ‬ ‫ویؤ ِثرون على أنف ِس ِہم ُولو کان ِب ِہم خص‬ َ ْ ْ َ ‫فأولٰ ِئک ُہ ُم ال ُمف ِل ُحوْ َن‬ “…but prefer the Refugees to themselves, even though poverty be their own lot. And whoso is rid of the covetousness of his own soul — it is these who will be successful.” (Surah alHashr, Ch.59: V.10) (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib al-Ansar, Bab Qaul Allah Yu’thirun Ala Unfusihim, Hadith 3798) (Umdatul Qari, Vol. 16, p. 364, Dar-ulKutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001) Hazrat Anasra relates that when on one occasion the Holy Prophetsa cut his hair, Hazrat Abu Talhara was the first to receive some of it. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab alWudu, Bab al-Maa alladhi Yaghsilu bihi al-Insan, Hadith 171) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates, “Once Hazrat Abu Talhara asked Umm-eSulaimra whether she had any food, as he had noticed the Holy Prophet’ssa voice was faint and therefore assumed that he may be hungry. She replied, ‘Yes’ and then took out some bread made of barley. She placed the bread in the corner of a loose shawl, wrapped it and handed it to me. She also tied a part of the loose shawl around my waist and sent me to the Holy Prophetsa.”

Hazrat Anasra further relates, “I took it with me and found the Holy Prophetsa in the mosque where there were some others as well. I stood beside the Holy Prophetsa who said, ‘Has Abu Talha sent you?’

‘Yes indeed’ I replied. ‘Has he sent you with food?’ asked the Holy Prophetsa to which I replied, ‘Yes’. The Holy Prophetsa instructed the companions who were with him to accompany him.” Instead of eating the food, the Holy Prophetsa asked his companions to go with him and also took the food along with him. Hazrat Anasra states, “I was walking ahead of them when I came across Hazrat Abu Talhara and informed him that the Holy Prophetsa was coming here. Hazrat Abu Talhara said, ‘O Umm-e-Sulaimra, the Holy Prophetsa is coming here along with some other people but we do not have enough food to feed them.’” (The Holy Prophetsa was to bring back the few pieces of bread that were sent. “She replied, ‘Allah and His Messengersa know best.’ Hazrat Abu Talhara quickly left from his home in order to meet the Holy Prophetsa as Hazrat Anasra had reached home before

them. Hazrat Abu Talhara arrived with the Holy Prophetsa. The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘O Umm-e-Sulaimra, bring whatever you have to eat.’ She brought bread, which the Holy Prophetsa instructed to break into pieces, which she did so. Hazrat Umme-Sulaimra poured clarified butter and presented it as a dish. The Holy Prophetsa then prayed on the bread in the manner God Almighty desired from him. The Holy Prophetsa then said to call ten people inside to eat, they were called inside and they ate until they were content and then they left. The Holy Prophetsa then said to let the next ten people inside and they ate until they were content and then they left.

The Holy Prophetsa then said to let the next ten people inside and they ate until they were content and then they left. The Holy Prophetsa then said to let the next ten people inside and they ate until they were content and then they left. Thus, all of them ate to their fill and they totalled approximately 70 or 80 people.” (Sahih alBukhari, Kitab al-Manaqib, Bab Alaamaat an-Nubuwwah fi al-Islam, Hadith 3578) This is one of the narrations that shows the blessings of the prayers of the Holy Prophetsa.

Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrates that Hazrat Abu Talhara owned the most date orchards among all the Ansar in Medina.

Among them his most prized orchard was called Berha, which was situated in front of the Mosque and the Holy Prophetsa would also visit this orchard and drink from its clean water. Hazrat Anasra narrates that when the following verse was revealed: ُ َ ُ ْ ُ ّٰ َ ْ ُ َ َ ‫ل َ ْن تنالوا البِ ّر َحتى تن ِفقوْا ِم ّما ت ِح ُّبوْ َن‬ “Never shall you attain to righteousness unless you spend out of that which you love; [Surah Aal-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.93]” Hazrat Abu Talhara stood up and said, “O Messengersa of Allah! God Almighty states: ُ َ ُ ْ ُ ّٰ َ ْ ُ َ َ ‫ل َ ْن تنالوا البِ ّر َحتى تن ِفقوْا ِم ّما ت ِح ُّبوْ َن‬ ‘Never shall you attain to righteousness unless you spend out of that which you love. [Surah Aal-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.93]’ From my property, my most beloved possession is the Berha orchard, I offer that as charity in the way of Allah. I am hopeful that God Almighty will accept this virtue and will be beneficial. Thus, you may spend it wherever you wish to do so.” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “Well done, this sacrifice is very beneficial” (or perhaps he said) “This sacrifice will be everlasting.” The Holy Prophetsa stated, “I have heard your request, I consider it best if you distribute this amongst your close relatives.” Hazrat Abu Talhara replied, “O Messengersa of Allah! I shall do exactly as you have commanded.” And so, Hazrat Abu Talhara distributed this orchard amongst his relatives and the sons of his uncle. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Wasaya, Bab idha Waqaqfa Ardan Lam Yubayyam al-Hudud Fa Huwa Ja‘iz…, Hadith 2769) Hazrat Abu Talhara has the honour and privilege of being the one who buried one of the daughters of the Holy Prophetsa after her demise. On the instructions of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat Abu Talhara

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descended into the grave and placed her blessed body into the grave. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jana‘iz, Bab Qaul an-Nabi Yu‘adhabul Mayyitu bi Ba‘d…, Hadith 1285) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra states that on one occasion, a sudden panic spread in Medina. The Holy Prophetsa took the horse of Hazrat Abu Talhara which was not swift, or perhaps it moved slowly. When the Holy Prophetsa returned, he said to Hazrat Abu Talhara that he found his horse to have moved like a flowing river, i.e. that it moved at great speed. After this incident, no other horse could keep up in pace with the horse of Hazrat Abu Talhara. (Sahih alBukhari, Kitabul Jihad wa As-Siyar, Bab al-Farasu al-Qutuf, Hadith 2867) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra states, “The Holy Prophetsa would often sit with us.

He would say to my younger brother in a lighthearted manner: ‘O Abu Umair!

What did Nuwair do?’ Abu Umair had a pet bird which was called Nuwair. When it died – or perhaps it flew away – Abu Umair was distraught. Hence the Holy Prophetsa would say this to him in a lighthearted manner. On many occasions, the Holy Prophetsa would be in our home when it would be the time for prayer. Thus, the Holy Prophetsa would order the cloth to be laid down which he would usually sit on. Hence, we would clean the cloth and place it for prayers, the Holy Prophetsa would stand up to lead the prayers and we would stand in congregation behind him.” (Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitabul Adab, Babul Mazah, Hadith 3720) (Sahih alBukhari, Kitabul Adab, Bab al-Kunyah li as-Sabiyy…, Hadith 6203) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra narrates, “When Abdullah bin Abi Talhara Ansari was born (this was the son of Abu Talhara and stepbrother of Hazrat Anasra from his mother’s side) I took him to the Holy Prophetsa, when, at the time, he was wearing his cloak and was smearing coal tar on his camel. He asked me if I had any dates with me, to which I replied in the affirmative. I gave him a few dates which he placed in his mouth and chewed it well.

He then opened the child’s mouth and placed them inside for the baby to suckle on. The baby began to suck on it and the Holy Prophetsa then stated, ‘Love for the dates of the Ansar’ i.e. the child also liked them and then the Holy Prophetsa named him Abdullah.” (Sahih Muslim, Kitabul Adab, Bab al-Istihbaab Tuhannik alMaulud…, Hadith 2144) Hazrat Anas bin Malikra states that a child of Hazrat Abu Talhara was ill and when he left the house, the child passed away. When he returned home, he enquired about the health of the child from his wife, Hazrat Umm-e-Sulaimra.

She replied, “He is now in more comfort then before.” She then gave him dinner and after spending the night together she informed him of the passing of their child and that he ought to go and bury him. Thus, in the morning, Hazrat Abu Talhara mentioned the entire incident to the Holy Prophetsa, who then prayed for his offspring. Hence after this incident he

was blessed with a son. (Sahih Muslim, Kitabul Adab, Bab al-Istihbaab Tuhannik al-Maulud…, Hadith 2144) Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra explains this incident in the following manner: “It is not difficult for a believer to sacrifice his life [for the sake of God]”. He then said, “With regard to [Asadullah] Ghalib, there are varying opinions about whether or not he used to drink alcohol.” Hazrat Muslehe-Maudra then says, “He was related to us and I have heard from my grandmothers and [paternal] aunts that he used to drink alcohol. Even a person who was addicted to alcohol could compose the following verses: ‫اجن دی دی وہیئ ایس یک یھت‬ ‫قح وت �ی ےہ ہک قح ادا ہن وہا‬ [Though I gave my life for Him, ‘twas His in any case; To speak the truth, I could not repay my dues to Him.] In other words, if one were to offer their life in the way of Allah the Almighty, it is not an extraordinary feat, for even this life itself was, after all, granted by Him. Hence, to sacrifice one’s life in accordance to the commandment of God Almighty is not considered as a huge sacrifice, because after all, his very life belonged to God and thus to return something which one has been entrusted with temporarily does not constitute as a sacrifice.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “There is an account recorded in the Ahadith [traditions of the Holy Prophetsa] regarding a female companion of the Holy Prophetsa, Umm-e-Sulaimra. The Holy Prophetsa had tasked her husband, Abu Talhara, with some religious duties for which he had to travel outside of the city.

At the time, their child was unwell and, naturally, he was very concerned about the condition of the child. When the companion returned, the child had passed away in his absence. The mother placed a sheet of cloth over the child’s body and readied herself by taking a bath and put on some perfume. Then, whilst displaying great courage, she welcomed her husband home. Upon arriving, the companion immediately enquired about the child’s health and she replied that the child was completely at rest. The companion then contently ate his meal, took some rest and also spent the night with his wife.

“It was only after this that the wife then stated, ‘I would like to ask something from you.’ ‘What is it you wish to ask?’ said the husband. His wife then stated, ‘If someone entrusts you with something and then after a while wishes to take it back, should that be returned to him or not?’ Her husband replied, ‘Which foolish person will not return that which was only kept with him as a trust.’ But after all, one may be a little saddened since they have to return it’, said his wife. The husband replied, ‘Why should one be saddened; it was not his to begin with, therefore there is no question of expressing any sadness over it.’ The wife stated, ‘Well, if that is the case then God Almighty, Who only granted this child to us as a trust, has now taken it back.’ Such was the courage and steadfastness that was displayed by the

women in that time. Thus, to offer one’s life is not something significant, particularly for a Momin [a believer].” (Taqrir Jalsa Salana Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Lahore 1984, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 21, pp. 53-54) According to the aforementioned Hadith it states that the Holy Prophetsa prayed for them and as a result, they were blessed with many children. They were granted a son very soon after this incident and were granted with so many blessings that according to an Ansari companion’s narration, he saw nine sons of Hazrat Abu Talhara and all of them were Qaris [reciters of the Holy Quran]. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jana‘iz, Bab man lam Yudhhir Huzunahu indal Musibah, Hadith 1301) Asim Ahwal relates that he saw the Holy Prophet’ssa bowl in the possession of Hazrat Anasra. A crack had appeared in the bowl and Hazrat Anasra had it repaired using silver. It was a large and beautiful bowl made from a very high-quality wood. Hazrat Anasra related that on many occasions he had the opportunity to present water to the Holy Prophetsa from this bowl. Ibn Sireen relates that this bowl was joined together with a metal thread and Hazrat Anasra wished to join it together with a thread made of gold or silver. However, Hazrat Abu Talhara told him that he should not make any changes to what the Holy Prophetsa had made himself, thus he abandoned this idea of his. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Athar Bihi, Bab Ash-Shurb min Qadhi an-Nabi wa Aaniyatihi, Hadith 5638) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates that he was presenting alcohol made from dates to Hazrat Abu Talha Ansarira, Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra bin Al-Jarrah and Hazrat Ubbayra bin Ka’b, when someone arrived and informed them that alcohol had been declared forbidden. Upon hearing this, Hazrat Abu Talhara stated, “O Anas! Break these pots!” Hazrat Anasra states that he hit the bottom of the pots with a stone and smashed them all. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Akhbar al-Ihaad, Bab Ma Jaa’a fi Ijaazati Khabr al-Wahid al-Sudooq fil Adhan, Hadith 7253) Hazrat Anasra bin Malik relates that when the Holy Prophetsa passed away, there was an individual in Medina who would prepare the lahad, [i.e. a grave which has have hollow cavity within the actual grave where the body would be placed], and there was another individual who would prepare a simple grave. The Companionsra decided that they would offer the Istikhara prayer before their Lord and then send word to both individuals. Whichever of the two came last, they would not use his services. In other words, they would use the services of the one who would come first. Thus, the message was sent to both individuals and the one who prepared the lahad came first and the Companionsra appointed him to prepare the grave of the Holy Prophetsa. In the commentary of this narration, Allama Busiri states that Hazrat Abu Talhara was the one who would prepare the lahad and Hazrat Abu Ubaidahra bin al-Jarrah was the one who would prepare the simple grave. This

concluded the accounts relating to his life. (Sunan Ibn Majah, Kitabul Jana‘iz, Bab Maa Jaa‘a fi Al-Shiqq, Hadith 1557) (Sharh Sunan Ibn Majah, Vol. 1, Kitabul Jana‘iz, Bab Maa Jaa‘a fi Al-Shiqq, p. 617, Baitul Afkar al-Dawliyyah, Jordan, 2007) Now, I shall mention some brief details of a deceased member and will also lead his funeral prayer in absentia after the Friday prayers. The funeral prayer is of respected Babu Muhammad Latif Sahib Amritsari, son of Hazrat Mian Nur Muhammad Sahibra, who was a companion of the Promised Messiahas.

He passed away on 26 January 2020 in Rabwah at the age of 90: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

By the grace of Allah the Almighty, the deceased was a Musi. He was the younger brother of a very prominent and wellknown missionary of the community, respected Maulana Muhammad Siddique Amritsari Sahib.

Babu Latif Sahib’s father, respected Mian Nur Muhammad Sahibra, was a companion of the Promised Messiahas.

Babu Latif Sahib’s father took the deceased to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra and presented him for waqf [life devotion] in his youth. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra stated that he had two sons, and one of his sons was already a Waqf and was serving as a missionary and that this son shall also serve all his life like a life-devotee.

Indeed, he served like a life-devotee.

After working as an office clerk in the railway department for four years, Latif Sahib presented his services to work for the Jamaat in October 1952 and was granted the opportunity to serve the Jamaat. His initial posting was in Nazarat Baitul Maal in 1952 and in 1954, he was transferred to the office of the daily Al Fazl.

In 1961 he was appointed to serve in the private secretary’s office. He served in the private secretary’s office for the last three years of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra Khilafat. He continued to serve in this office during the Khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Maish IIIrh. After the migration of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, the private secretary’s office also continued to operate there as well, and is still in operation today, where he served till 2014.

In 1985, he was appointed as the assistant private secretary and he fulfilled his duties in a most excellent manner. The total years of his service spanned 62 years, out of which he served for 53 years in the private secretary’s office in various roles. He had great skill and talent for his work and worked extremely diligently. Alongside his work, he also had a keen interest for religious knowledge and had extensively studied the literature of the Jamaat. He particularly had the opportunity to serve in the organisational matters of Shura during the Khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh and also after as well. Whilst serving in the private secretary’s office, he was tasked with various responsibilities, among which he would purchase items on behalf of the office and he would do so

Friday 28 February 2020 | AL HAKAM

20 by spending the Jamaat money with great care and attention.

After the independence of Pakistan, he also had the opportunity to serve in the security of the Markaz [headquarters] in Qadian for some period of time. He had one son and five daughters and a few days before his demise, one of his daughters also passed away, who was the wife of Zarif Ahmad Qamar Sahib and their son is serving as a missionary. Three daughters of the deceased and his son, Atiq Ahmad, who is also serving here [in the Jamaat], reside in London.

One of the workers at the private secretary’s office, Rana Mubarak Sahib states that he had the opportunity to work along with him for 32 years and for many years he rendered his services for the administrative matters of the Shura on his own. The deceased would advise

that whenever one is faced with a worldly problem or concern, then alongside prayers, they should work even more diligently in their Jamaat work, then Allah the Almighty alleviates their concerns.

If ever a fellow worker made a mistake, he would advise them in a very loving manner.

Many other office workers have written the same that he worked extremely diligently and would guide the fellow office workers. He had great knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Anjuman.

He was also very proficient in writing and would always select the most suitable words. Whenever he would buy a new pen, he would write Bismillah [in the name of Allah] with it and then continue his work with it. He was very punctual in coming to the office but would not leave simply when it was the end of the office

hours, in fact he would remain seated in office until his work was complete. At times, he would spend the entire night working in the office and would go home the next morning.

When I was in Rabwah, I also observed this. He would come to the office and I would notice that even at Maghrib, he would be coming to the mosque from his office and sometimes at Ishaa or even at Fajr, he would come straight from the office. He would put great effort in his work and would never be concerned about going home or that the office hours had finished. His main objective was to fulfil his Jamaat work.

Another great quality of his was that he would never discuss any matter with anyone. Whatever document he was dealing with would always remain discrete and confidential. Similarly,

Nasir Saeed Sahib has written that in 1974, when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh would go to the National Assembly in Islamabad, Latif Sahib was also part of the private secretary’s staff that would go with Huzoorrh. Apart from fulfilling his office duties, he would also assist others as well in their work, such as help wash the dishes. In other words, he was an extremely selfless person.

May Allah the Almighty grant him His forgiveness and mercy and elevate his status. May He also enable his children and progeny to continue his good deeds.

(Original Urdu published in Al Fazl International on 18 February 2020, pp. 5-9.Translated by The Review of Religions)

The Outset of Dissension in Islam This is a lecture delivered by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, second Successor of the Promised Messiahas. The primary purpose of this lecture was to provide a correct and accurate historical account of the conflicts which arose most prominently during the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthmanra.

In this lecture, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has shed light on the life of Hazrat Uthmanra, his piety and righteousness, and his status in the eyes of the Holy Prophetsa. Moreover, he has expounded upon the virtues of the companions of the Holy Prophetsa and has explained how conflicts actually arose in the early period of Islam. Moreover, he has refuted various allegations levelled against the person of Hazrat Uthmanra and his companions.

The lecture is an academic masterpiece of scholarship and explains the events of the era of the third Khilafat in a manner that no other historian has been able to match, be it Muslim or non-Muslim; all this is done in an eloquent, academic, yet simple manner, in the form of an interesting narrative.

Editor: Qaasid Muin Ahmad | Design & Layout: Jalees Ahmad | Sub-Editorial: Ataul Fatir Tahir | News: Ata-ul-Haye Nasir | © Al Hakam 2020