Al Hakam - 5 June 2020

Responding to Allegations All prophets are rejected and questioned on their sanity

Helping the “angels” of a care home

Humanity First activities in Nigeria during coronavirus pandemic

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Part I Page 6

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100 Years Ago...

Islam in Europe and Ahmadi Muslim converts

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 5 June 2020 | Issue CXVI Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

Extinguishing flames of discord

The world watches America in horror.

Injustices and racial discrimination have led to nationwide riots and protests on the soil of a “superpower”, often resulting in violence. Seeds of division and discrimination continue to grow a polarised society. #JusticeForGeorge protests and riots throughout US cities echo the injustices American society breeds.

The First Amendment, manifestly, is not enough; true justice is yet to be established.

The continuous murders of black Americans are causing unending disenfranchisement and racial discrimination – justice in “the land of

liberty” is far from complete. America’s eternal story of blatant discrimination – at times, supported by the very “institutions of freedom” – has been heart-wrenching to say the least. And this plea is now crossing the borders of America and reverberating across the world. The Bill of Rights, which was meant to guarantee civil rights and liberties to every individual in America, is constantly dishonoured and ignored.

The rise of the right-wing and white supremacists is another worry that haunts the country. Adding to this, undertones of support are given to these extreme groups by the current leadership of America, creating more division.

Frustrations are piling. The economic blow of Covid-19 on America, which has resulted in recession according to experts and record-hitting unemployment of 41 million people, leaves America extremely vulnerable to civil unrest. The Washington Post recently titled a story: “Gripped by disease, unemployment and outrage at the police, America plunges into crisis.”

American society is at the brink of civil war.

Four years ago, prior to the election of President Donald Trump, Peter Mansbridge was taken slightly aback during a CBC News interview when Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, the Fifth Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community warned of “a big civil war” in America.

He said that if Trump was elected and his (divisive) policies implemented, the threat of an American civil war would be imminent: “… if he tries to implement whatever he is saying, then I fear that there’s going to be a big civil war.”

At this point, Mansbridge, with slight surprise, reconfirmed by asking, “Civil war?”

In response, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa confirmed: “Yes, of course. They will rise against Continued on page 3

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

A Muslim should not oppress another Muslim Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar, Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “A Muslim is a brother of another Muslim, so he should not oppress him, nor should he hand him over to an oppressor. Whoever fulfilled the needs of his brother, Allah will fulfill his needs; whoever brought his brother out of a discomfort, Allah will bring him out of discomfort on the Day of Resurrection and whoever screened a Muslim, Allah will screen him on the Day of Resurrection.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Muzalim)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

Who is truly mighty?

Our community does not require people who possess the physical strength of mighty wrestlers. Instead, we require people who possess the strength to continue working towards the transformation of their morals.

Without doubt, a truly mighty and powerful person is not one who can move a mountain from its place – not in the least. True courage is to muster the strength to reform one’s morals.

So remember, strive with all your strength and resolve to improve your morals, because this is true strength and bravery.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 136-137)

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

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This Week in History 5 - 11 June In this third year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed life of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, this time, with some more details

5 June 1879: Pandit Shiv Narayan Agnihotri was an active member and vigorous advocate of the Brahmo Samaj, a sect of Hinduism. After taking a life vow in his religious career, he acquired a new name of Shiv Satyanand Agnihotri. He was engaged in a series of correspondence about theology with the Promised Messiahas. On this date, one such letter was written by the Promised Messiahas addressing various doctrines.

Later on, after relinquishing his previous views and believes, he formed Dev Samaj in February 1887. Hazrat Ahmad’sas strong and logical arguments shook Pandit Sahib and he had to forsake his previous advocacy of Brahmo Samaj and seek refuge in his new school of thought, Dev Dharam, which was more of a platform grounded on science for those who could not stand in front of Huzoor’sas rationale and cogent literature.

5 June 1885: Through a postcard, the Promised Messiahas informed Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira about the printing of the next part of one of his books.

5 June 1888: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira. Through this letter, Huzooras expressed that he was still in Batala and that funds for routine household expenses were very little.

6 June 1889: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra. In it, Huzooras urged him to visit Qadian with his family members because in this way, ladies of both families could spend some time together and this would benefit their religious knowledge too.

6 June 1890: The Promised Messiahas consoled his companion, Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira on the demise of his son. Huzooras comforted him by citing Islamic teachings in this regard.

The wording of this letter depicts how much Huzooras loved his Companionsra and what the high standards are, which Huzooras loved for his followers to attain.

6 June 1891: The Promised Messiahas sent his written reply from Iqbal Ganj Ludhiana to Maulvi Muhammad Hussain of Batala, consisting of terms and conditions for a proposed religious debate. Every clause of this proposal strongly suggested that Huzooras did not want to miss the chance of exchanging views because through only this one-on-one debate could the general public easily find the truth.

6 June 1896: The Promised Messiahas conveyed to his companion Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha

Abdur Rahmanra that he was not in favour of his journey to Japan, which was perhaps for business purposes. Huzooras said that recently, some of his beloved companions had made financial sacrifices and he was told by God Almighty in this regard that Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra was one of them.

for him regularly, so he must have trust in God as Allah would never forsake him. Huzooras also shared some initiatives of tabligh and their results shown in a dream by God Almighty.

Huzooras put it briefly that despite every adversity, the final triumph was destined to happen in favour of his Jamaat.

6 June 1897: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Nawab Muhammad Ali Khanra urging him to help find a suitable matrimonial match for Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra, who had braved the demise of five male newborns.

9 June 1905: The Promised Messiahas received the following Arabic revelation:

7 June 1897: When Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra had finished his first reading of the Holy Quran, the Promised Messiahas composed the well-known poem Mahmud ki Amin to celebrate the occasion. It was published on this day.

7 June 1898: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra assuring him that he would pray for him. Huzooras said that thus, he should not let his hopes down before every difficulty and enhance his trust because God has powers to manifest the most astonishing miracles.

8 June 1886: The Promised Messiahas wrote a detailed letter to Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra, sharing some very personal matters as both were trusted and credited friends.

8 June 1889: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira discussing the available printing facilities in Amritsar. This kind of letter and other narrations add to our knowledge the painstaking measures Huzooras had to take in order to get his books printed according to his desired standards.

9 June 1885: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter addressing Mir Abbas Ali Sahib of Ludhiana, educating him about the philosophy of this mundane life. Huzooras told him that God tests His servants with hardships, for whom He has destined immense rewards, so blessed are those who endure trials and tribulations of this worldly life because they would enjoy the copious bounties in Hereafter.

9 June 1885: On this date, the Promised Messiahas shared details of the fiasco of Munshi Indar Man of Muradabad with Hazrat Pir Siraj-ulHaq Numanira through a letter.

9 June 1897: The Promised Messiahas praised the sacrifices of his companion, Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra through a postcard. Huzooras pointed out that he prayed

‫ا�� ﻣﻌﻚ و ﻣﻊ اﻫﻠﻚ و ﻣﻊ �ﻞ ﻣﻦ اﺣﺒﻚ‬ “I am with you and with the members of your family and with all those who love you.”

10 June 1886: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira informing him that only 1,000 copies of the book Surma Chasham-e-Arya would be printed and God willing, any person who came across this book would buy it.

11 June 1894: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Pir Siraj-ul-Haq Numanira. In it, Huzooras cautioned him about disinformation being spread by his enemies. In those days, out of disappointment, the antagonists started spreading false news of repentance of Huzooras from his claim of being the Messiah. Huzooras said that instead, his opponents should repent from their belief in the life of Jesusas as there was nothing to support this absurd idea. In this letter, Huzooras shared his longing to see him because Pir Sahibra was not able to visit Qadian for quite some time. This letter tells us that Huzoor’sas book, Nishan-e-Asmani (A Heavenly Sign) was being printed in those days.

11 June 1896: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira assuring him that a copy of the letter written to Amir of Kabul would reach him in a day or two, as Huzooras had reminded Mian Manzoor Muhammad Sahib about this task. Moreover, this letter tells that Huzooras wished to visit Dalhousie with his family members and gathered information of expenses, accommodation and travel modes from Munshi Sahibra, but no historic record shows any journey of Huzooras with his family.

11 June 1899: The Promised Messiahas sent a letter to his companion, Hazrat Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra asking him to acquire more information about annual carnival of Yuz Asaf in Madras (present day Chennai). Prior to this, Huzooras was busy compiling his research about the escape journey of Jesus Christas towards India. This letter also exhibits Huzoor’sas unyielding, resolute trust in God and acceptance of his prayers.

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Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

the government because if the government takes harsh measures just to try to deny all their rights in any way, then there are so many hundreds of people. You see, to create any disturbance or nonsense, a single man can even single-handedly do it … So they have to use sense.”

Earlier in the interview, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa warned of “chaos in the country” if divisive policies saw implementation.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa concluded by saying: “I don’t think a president of America, if ever elected [as] president of America, will take any measure which is senseless.”

Peter Mansbridge responded, “You hope?”.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, with a hopeful smile, confirmed, “I hope”.

Since that interview, civil unrest has only grown in America. Though many of the policies were “senseless” enough, never to be implemented, the spirit and soul of such estranging policies, however, are spreading throughout America. Now, the idea of a civil war that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa emphatically warned of does not seem so far-fetched.

Solutions for civil unrest and the plaguing worry for international peace have been clearly described by Hazrat Mirza

Masroor Ahmadaa. Whether in parliaments, meetings with politicians, speeches before think-tanks and academics, letters to world leaders, peace symposia or hundreds of addresses to the public, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa echoes the teachings of the Holy Quran: absolute justice, by both the government and populace.

In 2012, talking about establishing world peace, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa noted: “The key requirement to fulfilling this primary goal is absolute justice and fairness in all matters. The Holy Quran, in chapter 4, verse 136, has given us a golden principle and lesson, guiding us about this. It states that as a means to fulfil the requirements of justice, even if you have to bear witness and testify against yourself, your parents or your closest relatives and friends, then you must do so. This is true justice where personal interests are set aside for the common good.”

He further said: “… the representatives and ambassadors of each nation should come forward with sincerity and with a desire to support the principles of fairness and equality.

We must eliminate all forms of bias and discrimination, as this is the only means to bring about peace.” (World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace, pp. 48-49) At another instance, Huzooraa explained that the Promised Messiahas said

that the Holy Quran highlights the need of acting fairly and with justice, even against enemies. It is hard to act justly towards those who kill your women and children, but the

Holy Quran has demanded upholding the rights of enemies too. Huzooraa said that most people talk with kindness in front of enemies, but they do not uphold their rights. The Holy Quran does not merely mention love but talks of the level of love one should show. (Concluding address, Jalsa Salana UK 2019) In fact, Islam goes further. It’s not just justice, but kindness we must show to all; to go out of one’s way and give to others from our own share.

His Holiness has said that both the government and the public should act with justice, peace and kindness. Revolting on the streets and creating violent uprisings will not bring about lasting peace, rights or liberty, nor will oppression of civilians bring about peace.

A struggle against any inner evils, selfish desires, prejudices and wants must be waged. A revolution in our outlook on life based on the principles of absolute justice, equality and fairness will bring the change we are thirsty for.

The origin to achieve this justice and peace, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa has constantly stressed, is returning to God. In Holland, last year, during an address, he explained: “In terms of religion, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, taught that developing true peace requires for mankind to turn towards God Almighty, Who is the source of peace, the Noble and the Pure, and to try to emulate His attributes. This means that human beings should set aside their personal interests in the pursuit of peace and ensure that their motivations are pure at all times.”

Therefore, not just America, but until the world realises and acts on these principles, the hope for lasting peace and civil liberty will be a stretch of the imagination.

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Humanity First activities in Nigeria during coronavirus pandemic Raja Ather Qudoos Missionary, Nigeria

Nowadays, the world is looking to come out of what has proven to be a deadly crisis. The coronavirus is taking in its grip hundreds of thousands of lives and affecting millions. Countries across the globe are compelled to go to lockdowns to stem this virus. The economies of most countries have slowed down due to the loss of billions of dollars.

When the whole world has gone to a standstill, volunteers of Humanity First have stepped up to serve the needy.

Like any other country in the world, Humanity First Nigeria launched its campaign to provide relief to those suffering in Ojokoro, Lagos.

Missionary in-charge Jamaat Nigeria,

Afzaal Ahmed Rauf Sahib and Naib Amir Jamaat Nigeria, Alhaji Mufazzal Bankolay Sahib kickstarted the event with prayers.

This exercise was replicated in other cities of the country too. Humanity First Nigeria provided relief and food packs to hundreds of families across the country.

The items included sanitisers, facemasks, rice, beans, oil and sugar.

Different media outlets and newspapers like The Leadership and Voice of Nigeria reported these events.

The recipients and common masses appreciated the efforts of Humanity First and the dedication of Jamaat-eAhmadiyya’s volunteers.

May Allah see us through this pandemic and bless all those who contributed in the noble cause. Amin.

Birth during a global pandemic Aneela Nasir USA

Like any expectant mother, I had my worries and anxieties during the months leading up to the birth of my second son.

How would I distribute my attention now that I would have two children? Would my firstborn be okay spending the night without me for the first time when I go to the hospital? Would I be enough for both my sons or would one feel neglected?

Little did I know that as the time came closer to welcome our son, we would be living in a completely different world and the worries I prayed about for months would become an afterthought as I grappled with a much greater fear; the coronavirus pandemic.

As my due date drew closer, coronavirus was only spreading faster and government restrictions tightening.

Rules were changing with each visit to the doctor’s office. Our state was in complete lockdown. By the time I went to one of my final checkups, all workers and patients were wearing masks. The waiting room was rearranged to have fewer seats placed at a safe distance from one another. A separate waiting area was setup in the hallway to accommodate more patients.

There were workers walking around

sanitising doorknobs and elevator buttons.

When my husband and I reached the door to the waiting room, a sign informed us that no one was to accompany patients during their visit. I was a little taken aback by that, but my husband assured me it would be all right and left to wait in the car.

As I spoke to my doctor, I started to realise what would likely happen when it came time for my son to be born. She told me that I was lucky because my hospital was still allowing spouses to accompany women in the hospital; that at many hospitals not far from here, women were required to enter and leave the maternity ward completely alone in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus.

I asked my doctor my nagging question already knowing the answer: “Will my one-year-old be able to visit me in the hospital?” She shook her head: “No”, with a sorry look on her face. I could not help but start crying in front of her. “I wish I could hug you,” said my doctor. I cried even harder.

It might seem silly to get so distraught over this, but my son had never spent the night away from me. How could I leave him to be with my new baby, especially without knowing how many days I would be gone for? Maybe I needed my son more

than he needed me.

That day, I felt a need to tell Huzoor, may Allah be his Helper, about my situation.

He had recommended medications to me during both my pregnancies. I knew that while I don’t write to Huzooraa as much as I should, his prayers would improve my situation, as they always have.

I shared all my fears and anxieties with him. I told him how scared I felt about leaving my son and staying in the hospital while coronavirus is spreading. I knew that I would not hear back soon as responses from Huzooraa were delayed due to coronavirus. But as soon as I sent my letter, a feeling of peace and satisfaction came over me that Huzoor’saa prayers would be with me.

Days before I gave birth, I read about an incident just a few hours away in New York, about a man who had lied about being healthy, so that he could visit his wife in the maternity ward. The man finally admitted to feeling ill when his wife started showing Covid-19 symptoms shortly after giving birth.

It was also during this time that we decided, as a family, that it was best that my mother did not visit for the moment. It would have been a huge help if my mother was with me during my newly postpartum days, but my parents live far away from me

and we had to think of everyone’s safety over anything else. Instead of worrying excessively about these things, I was able to pray about them instead and stay calm.

I felt serenity in knowing that I had asked for Huzoor’saa prayers and felt an extra responsibility to pray hard for myself too since I had asked him to do so as well.

You know, it is true what they say: Allah works in mysterious ways. Because of the lockdown, I was lucky to have my husband with me all the time. Originally, he was supposed to be very busy on the days around my due date. Instead, I was able to have his constant support and physical presence at a time I needed it most.

On 13 April, by the grace of God and with the prayers of my beloved khalifa, our son Mutahir was born. His name, given to him by Huzooraa, means “the one who purifies”. Mutahir came into the world during the peak of coronavirus in my state.

By the grace of Allah, he is healthy and safe and I am happy to say that through prayer and maintaining a connection with Khilafat, I was able to stay positive and strong through this exceptional situation, solidifying again, “Surely there is ease after hardship.” (Surah al-Inshirah, Ch.94: V.6)

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Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

100 Years Ago...

A passion for Islam: Newspaper lauds preaching efforts by Ahmadi Muslims Akhbar Faruq, 3 June 1920 The newspaper, Hamdam of 25 May has published two columns under the heading “Do Do Batain” about our tabligh work which is taking place in England and America. Apart from one paragraph, which is not suitable for such a substantial newspaper like Hamdam, we have extracted all of them below: “Our Ahmadi friends, who are also mistakenly or maliciously called Qadianis by some, are in fact very much ahead of ordinary Muslims in their religious zeal.

Their passion for the teachings of their … prophet, his righteous khulafa and noble elders, and in general religious affairs, certainly cannot be matched by the ordinary Muslims.

“This is not surprising or an extraordinary matter. If you turn the pages of a few lessons in Islamic history, you will find that the forefathers of the present Muslims had the same zeal in the past. Even now, their religion is the same and its commandments are the same, but people have become indifferent to religious matters and are trapped in the businesses of the world; they have developed heedlessness to religion.

“It has been a few years since the inception of our Ahmadi friends and in accordance with the proverb, ‘The newborn calf runs to the doe deer [to drink milk]’, they have a lot more religious enthusiasm and fervour than other Muslims. Maybe it is more appropriate to compare present unfaithfulness of the

Muslims with the passion of the Ahmadis after the passing of 1,300 years, only if by this time something in the name of religion had survived from the calamities of earth and skies. However, at the current pace of the time, the religious ignorance of the nation’s youngsters and the growing irreligiousness threatens that even such a comparison may not be possible. “… The efforts of Ahmadis for the promulgation of Islam etc. are certainly a source of satisfaction for the general Muslims. In present times – if we observe – the formal effort to carry out tabligh of Islam in the Western countries has been initiated by the great resoluteness of Ahmadi friends. What is even more commendable is the formal effort by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat to establish a magnificent mosque in London. The people of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat are generously collecting chanda for this cause and we hope that their religious fervour and passion will soon help to shape a glorious mosque in London, for which the world of Islam can be grateful to them ...

“The name of Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib is very popular among the missionaries of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

He is a very active and passionate worker … Mufti Sahib took leave from the British mission and left for America to convey the message of Islam. It is unfortunate that at first, Mufti Sahib had to face difficulties after arriving in America and the democratic government of America,

which claims to be the giver of freedom, did not allow him to deliver sermons and lectures on the basis that Islam allows a man to have up to four wives.

“The reason why the American authorities wanted to stop Mufti Sahib from the tabligh of Islam was that polygamy was illegal in the eyes of the American people and against the equality of men and women. However, nature has not kept equality between men and women and in matters where equality can be achieved, Islam has recognised the rights of women more than any other religion.

“American authorities, by law, force men to marry only one woman, but no law can change human nature. Hence, a few days ago, this telegraphic message was published from New York, the largest city of America, that Mr Watson, a resident of New York, had publicly admitted that he had married 24 women and killed five of them. Another similar incident of a man was mentioned a few years ago. At first, he deceived many women into marrying him and after getting their wealth by force or trickery, left them. This man continued to do so for a quarter of a century and did not come in the clutches of the law.

“Both the said persons could be referred to as having criminal tendency, but all American tourists assert that there are more street women in America than in European countries. On the contrary, there are Islamic countries where men are allowed to marry more than once to fulfill the requirements of nature. Brothels, pleasure houses, and prostitute women are nowhere to be found. However, in countries that fall under the influence of Western powers, this evil takes root in them like other social ills.

“Some Muslims, whose proportion is barely two per cent, keep two or more wives for having children, or let us assume for luxury or pleasure, but they do not increase their number to a dozen or kill them.” (Hamdam, 25 May 1920) (Translated by Al Hakam)

Helping the “angels” of a care home Aamir Shahzad President Jamaat Huddersfield South, UK

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Huddersfield South visited Meadow court residential care home in Slaithwaite on 10 May 2020.

We heard that the staff at this residential home have been described as “angels” after agreeing to live on site in caravans to help residents from coronavirus.

The local Qaid, Shakeel Yousaf Sahib, Aqib Iqbal Sahib and myself were touched by this response from the staff and we felt that we should offer our support to them, as Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa instructed that due to the coronavirus, this is a crucial time to serve humanity and offer people our help, support and love.

When we contacted them to offer our help, they said that they were well equipped.

But then we mentioned we would like to

share our Iftar meal with them by providing a four-course meal - as we were passing through the blessed month of Ramadan, a month that teaches us sacrifice and patience.

They said that they were happy to accept this gesture of thanks. In total, the staff included 16 members and four directors living on site in caravans. We offered to cater for all of them.

It shows that in time of need you can witness so many fantastic people come

together. It is amazing to see the caravans on site there, the commitment from the staff is amazing. This is a massive ask on the staff; to leave their families and loved ones for three weeks, to care for others.

As a thank-you gesture, we provided a four-course curry meal to all staff at Meadow court residential care home in Slaithwaite. Director, Mr Steven and his staff welcomed us on site, and we shared the Iftar meals with the whole team.

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Responding to Allegations

All prophets are rejected and questioned on their sanity Part I The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas had complete certainty and firm faith in the revelations he received from God Almighty. An unfounded and foul objection is made against the Promised Messiahas that he cannot be considered a prophet of God as many mentally impaired and delusional people also firmly believe their inspirations to be divine revelations.

By raising this question, such people are giving the impression that prophets do not possess complete faith and belief in the revelation of God. This perception is erroneous.

Soon after revelations begin to descend upon prophets of God, they see God’s support and help. They observe the acceptance of their prayers. The revelations they receive bear glad tidings and they witness these prophecies being fulfilled with their own eyes. As a result, they become fully convinced of the revelations to be from the Almighty. At first, they themselves become certain about the truth of their revelations. After they reach the stage where they are absolutely sure, people are also invited towards God’s message. As a result of their firm belief in God’s revelations, they claim that their opponents will fail in spite of their great numbers and abundance of material resources and that they themselves will succeed, regardless of meagre means and absence of worldly riches.

Witnessing the fulfilment of the claims prophets make, people believe in them.

Owing to this true faith and perfect belief, they endure all kinds of suffering but do not leave their prophets.

The claim of Prophet Noahas is mentioned in the Holy Quran: َ ‫ون م َن ال ْ ُم ْس ِلم‬ َ َُ ْ َ ُ ُ �� ِ ‫َوأ ِم ْﺮت أن أك‬ ِ “And I have been commanded to be of those who have submitted.” (Surah Yunus, Ch.10: V.73) Prophet Mosesas made the same announcement: َ ‫َوأَنَا أَ َّو ُل ال ْ ُم ْﺆم ِن‬ �� ِ “And I am the first to believe.” (Surah al-A‘raf, Ch.7: V.144) The Holy Prophetsa announced this in a similar way: َ ‫َوأَنَا أَ َّو ُل ال ْ ُم ْس ِلم‬ �� ِ

“And I am the first of those who submit.” (Surah al-An‘am, Ch.6: V.164) Hence, the statement of the opponents

that the Promised Messiah’sas complete belief in the revelation of God cannot be a proof of the truth of his claim cannot be accepted because it contradicts the truth stated in the Holy Quran.

As far as the argument, that there are some delusional people who think they receive revelations and they also believe in them is concerned, this is not a new objection. The deniers of all prophets, seeing the true faith of prophets in their revelation, their sufferings in the way of God and the pattern of all kinds of sacrifices, still object that the claimants of prophethood are mentally impaired. The opponents recognise that the prophets being deprived of worldly resources and their opponents enjoying abundance in numbers and influence, declare day and night that they will succeed and their opponents will fail, but they consider the prophets to be delusional.

Hence, the Holy Quran describes the people of Prophet Noahas. Allah the

Almighty states: َ َ َ‫َك ّذبَ ۡﺖ َق ۡب َل ُه ۡم َقوۡ ُم نُوۡ ٍح َف َﻜ ّذبُوۡا َع ۡب َدنَا َو َقالُوۡا َم ۡج ُنوۡ ٌن َّو ۡاز ُدجﺮ‬ ِ “The people of Noah rejected the truth before them; aye, they rejected Our servant and said, ‘A madman and one who is spurned.’” (Surah al-Qamar, Ch.54: V.10) Referring to the remarks of Pharaoh to Prophet Mosesas, God Almighty states: ٌ ‫ال َسا� ٌِر أَ ْو َم ْج ُن‬ َ ‫َو َق‬ ‫ون‬ “And he said, ‘A sorcerer, or a madman.’” (Surah al-Dhariyat, Ch.51: V.40) Mentioning the opponents of the Holy Prophetsa, Allah Almighty says: ٌ ‫ون إنَّ ُہ ل َ َم ْج ُن‬ َ ُ َُ​َ ‫ون‬ ِ ‫و�قول‬ “And they say, ‘He is certainly mad.’”

(Surah al-Qalam, Ch.68: V.52) In fact, talking about all the prophets as a whole, God Almighty states: َّ َ َ ۤ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ َّ ‫َما اتی ال ِذیۡ َن ِم ۡن ق ۡب ِل ِه ۡم ِّم ۡن ّر ُسوۡ ٍل ِالا قالوۡا َسا� ٌِر ا ۡو َم ۡجنوۡ ٌن‬ “There came no Messenger to those

before them, but they said, ‘A sorcerer, or a madman!’” (Surah al-Dhariyat, Ch.51: V.53) The above verses of the Holy Quran show that it is not new for the adversaries to call the Promised Messiahas insane and mentally ill. This is a common practice of those who oppose prophets. The same allegation was levelled against Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas. For this reason, Allah Almighty says: َ ُ ‫ال الْ�َ َّول‬ َ ‫بَ ْل َقالُوا ِم ْﺜ َل َما َق‬ ‫ون‬ “But they say like what the former people said.” (Surah al-Muminun, Ch.23: V.82) َ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ ُ َ ُ َّ ‫يل ل ِّ�ر ُس ِل ِمن ق ْب ِلﻚ‬ ِ‫ما �قال لﻚ ِإلا ما قد ق‬ “Nothing is said to thee but what was said to the Messengers before thee.”

(Surah Ha Mim al-Sajdah, Ch.41: V.44) Hence, every prophet of God faces allegations that were raised against the earlier prophets as well. The Promised Messiahas said in one of his couplets:

7

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM ‫ن‬ ‫ا�اء ےک وطر رپ تجح وہیئ اُن رپ امتم‬ ‫بی‬ ‫اُن ےک وج ےلمح ہ ی� اُن ی‬ ‫م بس یبن ہ ی� ہصح دار‬ “The proof, like that of the prophets, was completed against them. Their objections against me are such as would apply to all prophets.” (Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya Part IV, p. 176 [English Translation]) The Promised Messiahas stated: “The way God has treated me is not such as has no parallel in the case of any other prophet. There is no objection that has been raised against me that cannot also be raised against another prophet.

Therefore, the condition of those who, at the time of raising an objection against me, fail to reflect that their objection can also be levelled against other prophets is very dangerous indeed and the danger is that such persons may well die as atheists.”

(The Philosophy of Divine Revelation, pp.

708-709 [Translation of Haqiqatul Wahi]) He reiterated: “I have repeatedly announced that even if all my opponents from the east and the west jointly try, they cannot raise any objection against me which was not raised earlier against one or the other of the past Prophets.” (Ibid, p. 721) On another occasion, the Promised Messiahas said: “Take the same answers from us as God Almighty has been ultimately giving to those people who have been objecting to prophets. They should present such objections before us that cannot be raised against any earlier prophet.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 257) Allah the Almighty lays down certain points in Surah al-Qalam to dispel this objection of the opponents that (God forbid) the Holy Prophetsa was mad or delusional. God says: َ​َۡ ٓ ُ ‫ن َو القل ِم َو َما یَ ۡسط ُر ۡو َن‬ “By the inkstand and by the pen and by that which they write.” (Surah al-Qalam, Ch.68: V.2) In this verse, pen, ink and the writings written by them are presented as the first argument. So, consider this argument in light of the Promised Messiah’sas truthfulness.

Today, the opponents of Ahmadiyyat also take articles from books of the Promised Messiahas and copy them in their books. For instance, an opponent of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, Maulvi Ashraf Ali Thanwi was present in the Indian subcontinent. He wrote a book called Ahkam-e-Islam Aqal Ki Nazar Mein [The commandments of Islam in the eyes of reason]. There are several places in this book where even the title of a given subject is the exact phrase of the Promised Messiahas and the rest of the subject is also copied verbatim from his book. Thus, taking articles from the books of the Promised Messiahas, publishing them in their own name, still imposing a fatwa of disbelief on him and propagating day and night that he was a disbeliever, out of the pale of Islam and an enemy of Islam shows that their hearts certainly acknowledge the glory and greatness of the Promised Messiahas.

A conference of religions was held

in Lahore in December 1896 and the organisers invited representatives of all religions to speak on the five questions set by the organisers in light of the teachings of their respective religions. Hence, the essay of the Promised Messiahas addressing those five questions was read out in the conference, and which is published under the name of Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam.

We request the readers to study this book and bear witness to God in their hearts whether the author of this book, the Promised Messiahas was (God forbid) insane or had the support of God. Before that conference, Allah Almighty gave the Promised Messiahas the good news that his essay would prevail over all others. It so happened that the venue, where there were thousands of listeners and people of all religions, was unanimous in agreeing that the time of other speakers should be given to the lecture of the Promised Messiahas. The keenness of the audience testified to the truthfulness of God’s revelation and the superiority of Islam through the Promised Messiahas.

The Promised Messiahas also invited all religions to compete in acceptance of prayers, but no one came forward. The Promised Messiahas stated: “Now, let it be known that in the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty has promised four extraordinary signs of divine support for the pious and true believers. These signs form the ideal criteria for identifying the perfect believer. And they are: “First, that the perfect believer frequently receives glad tidings from Allah, i.e., he is given good news of the fulfilment of his own desires or those of his friends.

“Second, that such hidden matters are revealed to him as relate not only to himself and to those connected with him, but such a chosen believer is also made cognizant of the divine decree that is going to manifest itself in the world, or of the things that are going to befall some eminent people of the world.

“Third, that most prayers of the perfect believer find acceptance, and the news of their acceptance is often given beforehand.

“Fourth, that the perfect believer is granted, more than anyone else, the comprehension of the finer points and deeper meanings of the Holy Quran, as well as its subtleties and wondrous characteristics.

“In all of these four signs, the perfect believer enjoys relative preponderance over others. Although it cannot be taken as a rule that the perfect believer should always receive glad tidings from Allah, or that all his prayers should be accepted without exception, or that he should be informed of every event or calamity, or that the deeper meanings of the Quran should be revealed to him at all times; still – when compared to others – preponderance lies with the true believer in all these four signs. Although it is possible that other people, such as less perfect believers, be given an occasional

portion of these bounties, yet only the true believer can be regarded as the true recipient of these blessings.

“It is true, of course, that the perfect station of the believer cannot manifest itself to the less-illumined and the shortsighted people unless it is viewed in comparison. Therefore, a contest is the simplest and clearest way of identifying the true and perfect believer. Even though these signs are generally shown by a true believer, their one-sided demonstration entails some problems. For example, some people who are fated not to succeed, and destiny’s hand has irrevocably written against them, sometimes request the perfect believer to pray for them. These ill-fated people may not experience the sign of acceptance of prayer with regard to the perfect believer and may be led into greater doubt. They cannot, due to their personal deprivation, witness the sign of acceptance [of prayer] at the hands of the perfect believer. Even though the perfect believer enjoys a high station in the sight of Allah, and many a complicated problem is set right for his sake and through his supplications, and some destinies that seem irreversible are also altered, yet the fate that is truly irreversible can never be altered even by the prayers of the perfect believer – not even if he is a prophet or a messenger. In short, the perfect believer, though he does not always prevail, is clearly set apart from his opponents in respect of all these four signs. Therefore, when it has been established that a true and perfect believer receives a much larger share of glad tidings, acceptance of prayer, revelation of the unseen and of the deeper meanings of the Quran, there can be no better way of testing the perfect believer and his adversary than holding a contest between the two.

“In other words, if there is any doubt as to who is a perfect believer in the sight of Allah and who is lesser in status, the two ought to be tested with regard to these four signs. In the contest, these four signs should be the standard for determining who measures up to them and who falls short.

“Let people bear witness that I, purely for the sake of Allah and for the manifestation of the truth, agree to such a contest with all my heart and soul. Miyan Nadhir Husain Daihlwi [of Delhi] is the first amongst those who ought to enter the contest against me. For over 50 years, he has been teaching the Quran and hadith, yet the practical demonstration of his learning is such that he issued a fatwa of heresy against me without any enquiry or investigation and misled thousands of savage-like people into uttering profanities against me. He let loose Batalvi against me as a demented beast, foaming at the mouth with curses and declarations of heresy, while he arrogated to himself the status of the perfect believer and Shaikh-ul-Kul, and the Shaikh of Arabs and non-Arabs. He, therefore, is the first one whom I invite to the contest.

“Of course, he may bring with him Batalvi – who now claims to have true dreams, as well as Maulvi Abdul Jabbar

Sahib, son of that good man the late Maulvi Abdullah Sahib, and also Maulvi Abdur Rahman of Lakkhukay, who has published a revelation declaring me forever misguided, and has issued a fatwa of heresy against me.

“He may also bring with him Maulvi Muhammad Bashir Sahib of Bhopal, who is one of his followers. And if – as is his custom – Mian Sahib shies away from the contest, then these other personages mentioned above should come forward.

And if they too should seek the path of escape, then Maulvi Rashid Ahmad Sahib of Gangauha should muster up the courage for this contest, since he is foremost amongst the party of [Mian Sahib’s] followers. Anyone else – from amongst the famed and celebrated sufis, saints and hereditary divines – who, like these religious scholars, considers me to be a kafir, an impostor, and an inveterate liar, is welcome to join him.

“If all these people turn away from the contest and refuse to accept my invitation by means of lame and unreasonable excuses, then Allah’s argument shall be complete against them in all respects. I am the appointed one, and the glad-tiding of victory has been given to me. I, therefore, call all the persons mentioned above to a contest against me. Is there anyone who dares to stand up against me?” (The Heavenly Decree, pp. 24-28 [Translation of Asmani Faislah]) Then on another occasion, the Promised Messiahas called upon all the clergymen of India and announced: “Thus O Priests! Behold, I stand resolute for this work. If you desire that the difference between truth and falsehood become manifest through God’s decree and God’s verdict, then come, let us fight in a field with prayers so that the liar may be exposed. Be certain that there is a God and indeed, His Omnipotent Being exists and He always supports the righteous. So whoever of us is truthful, God will surely support him. Remember that the person who is vile in the sight of God will see humiliation after this war and he who is dear to Him will be honoured.” (Majmua Ishtiharat, Vol. 2, p. 254 [old edition]) Regardless of repeated invitations, nobody had the courage to accept his challenge and thereby proved by their actions that the Promised Messiahas was not delusional but had the support and assistance of God Almighty.

Lastly, we present the verse of the Holy Quran, which expresses that the hearts of the opponents recognise the truthfulness of the prophets but they continue to deny them with their mouths. Allah Almighty states: ُ َ َ ‫اس َت ْيقَ َن ْت َها أَنْ ُف ُس ُه ْم ُظ ْل ًما َو ُع ُل ّوًا ۚ َفان ْ ُظ ْر َك ْي َف ك‬ ْ ‫َو َج َح ُد ْوا ب َها َو‬ ‫ان َعاقِ َبة‬ ِ َ‫ال ْ ُم ْف ِس ِديْن‬ “And they rejected them wrongfully and arrogantly, while their souls were convinced of them. See then, how evil was the end of those who acted corruptly!”

(Surah al-Naml, Ch.27: V.15)

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

8

Virtual Khilafat Day Jalsa in Canada Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

To celebrate the 112 years of Khilafat-eAhmadiyya, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada held its Khilafat Day Jalsa across Canada.

This year, the Jalsa was held at local Jamaat levels and were virtual in nature. Various online conferencing platforms were used to accomplish this.

Thanks to Covid-19 pre-cautions, online conferencing usage has increased manifold within Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada. All amila meetings, from the local level to the national level, are being held online. Recently, virtual jalsas were organised by Canada’s markaz on a national level, with Jamaat members joining from their homes. For Khilafat Day Jalsa, it was encouraged to have it at local level.

In Jamaat Brampton Castlemore, such a Jalsa was arranged on 27 May 2020 from 7pm to 8pm. The conference’s time slot was booked for the time. The conference invitation link was created and made part of an email and WhatsApp message sent to inform members about the Jalsa. Once the invitation link was clicked, a screen would open and connect the user to the conference.

Many households were already familiar with using such conferencing platforms.

Those who requested help were provided with help over the phone.

Once the presenters of the meeting – reciter of the Holy Quran, reciter of poem, speakers etc. – were finalised, they were invited to do a practice run. This allowed the presenters to become familiar with the conference feature. They were guided on how to share their slides, turn on their cameras, manage their audios, lighting,

background etc. The conference was opened to participants about 20 minutes before the start time. Some members had difficulty joining and were given last minute individual help.

The Jalsa was presided by the local President of Jamaat Castlemore, Arshad Ahmad Sahib. The session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Urdu translation by Syed Mukarram Nazeer.

The English translation was presented by a tifl, Ibrahim Chaudhary Sahib. Waqar Hashmi Sahib presented the poem and English translation.

Mahmood Yasar Sahib did a presentation on Blessings of Khilafat. He presented glad tidings of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, regarding the Second Manifestation (Khilafat). He went on to introduce each of the five Khulafa-e-Ahmadiyyat and how, under divine guidance, they have led the Jamaat through different challenges.

Missionary of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Brampton Castlemore, Aneeq Ahmad Sahib then spoke in detail on how God appoints a Khalifa. He highlighted how Allah helped each Khalifa in his responsibilities.

Closing remarks were given by president of Jamaat Castlemore and he also led the silent prayer.

An attendance of 35 connections was reached just before the start of Jalsa, which stayed relatively constant till the end. With an estimated average attendance of four members per connection, the estimated total viewership of the event was 130.

May Allah protect the institution of Khilafat and enable us to fulfil our responsibilities towards Khilafat. Amin.

Kosovo Jamaat donates protective materials to Kosovo regional police

Besmir Yvejsi Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Kosovo

In Kosovo, more than two months have passed now since the first confirmed case of Covid-19. However, thanks to the measures of the Ministry of Health, the commitment of the medical staff, police, military, etc., it has been possible to manage this pandemic.

Analysing the current situation in the region, on 22 May 2020, Humanity First Germany in cooperation with Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Kosovo decided to help the Kosovo police. One of the reasons for the help is because the police is facing the pandemic face-to-face, at the forefront.

The donations included: 300 hands sanitisers, 250 bottles of alcohol-based cleaners, 4000 gloves and 300 masks.

Mr Fadil Gashi, from the information office of the Peja regional police, said: “Today we were visited by the representatives of the Association Humanity First, who have brought a donation related to Covid-19 for the police officers. On this occasion, I thank them very much for the donation, for the respect, understanding and help they have offered us, because their help not only helps us and the citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, but also motivates us, the Kosovo Police, for their work and large commitments.

We have received the donations including gloves, masks, disinfectants with sufficient quantities, which will serve us for a long

time and all colleagues on the ground during the performance of duties around police commitments. And finally, we offer thanks from the bottom of our hearts to

Humanity First for its donation”.

In the end, the two sides exchanged gratitude with each other and agreed that cooperation will continue in the future.

At the beginning of May of this year, Humanity First and Jamaat Kosovo had also assisted the Kosovo police in the region of Prishtina. The chairman of the syndicate for the region of Prishtina, Mr Imer Zeqiri had expressed his gratitude for the donation of protective and hygienic materials. This donation was made in cooperation with the Directorate for Social Welfare of the Municipality of Prishtina. There was also media coverage; 8 newspapers have published news about this donation on their websites and social networks, including two newspapers that are the most widely read papers in Kosovo.

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Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

Seeking justice, the right way

Frasat Ahmad Missionary USA

No innocent human being should have to die the way George Floyd did. It was coldblooded murder.

But is George’s death an isolated incident, one in which an officer of the law went rogue and violated the code of ethics he swore to uphold? Or is George the latest casualty in a long line of brutal killings?

“You promised you wouldn’t kill me!”

Natasha McKenna (February 2015) “I can’t breathe!” – Freddy Gray (April 2015) “I don’t wanna die young!” – Christian Taylor (August 2015) “I can’t breathe!” – Eric Garner (July 2014)

“I don’t have a gun. Stop shooting!” – Michael Brown (August 2014) “Please don’t let me die!” – Kimani Gray (Match 2013) “Why did you shoot me?!” – Kendrec McDade (March 2012) “What are you following me for?” – Trayvon Martin (February 2012) “Officers, why do you have your guns out?!” – Kenneth Chamberlain (November 2011) “You shot me! You shot me!” – Oscar Grant (January 2009) These human beings, in all likelihood, would still be alive today if the colour of their skin was fairer, if they had not committed the “crime” of being black in a country that spurns them.

And some Americans have had enough.

Citizens are spilling into the streets to protest an establishment inherently plagued by systemic racism, one that tears apart the fabric of our society by murdering innocent lives in the name of justice.

Yet, we are stuck in a vicious cycle, one where systemic discrimination causes protests. These protests are then hijacked by petty criminals and escalate into riots and looting, which further perpetuates systemic discrimination against black Americans. We must break this cycle, regardless of the inherent desire to voice our anger in the streets, regardless of the vengeance we so desperately desire. Our Khalifa has instructed us to do so.

On protesting, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, has taught: “[Often], protesters vandalise or damage possessions and properties belonging either to the state or to private citizens … Even where protests or strikes are conducted peacefully, without recourse to criminal damage or violence, it still can have a very negative effect.

“This is because even peaceful protests often result in a loss of millions to the economy of the nation. Under no circumstances can such behaviour be considered to be an example of loyalty to the nation.” (Address at the Military Headquarters in Koblenz, Germany, 20 May 2012) We cannot burn down our own homes in protest to make them hear our voices.

We will only be left with char and ash. Our Khalifa has instructed us to outlet our anger and seek retribution in an entirely different manner altogether. We must let our voices be heard, not in the streets

through protest, but at the ballot box. We must exercise our right to vote and cast out those elected officials who espouse policies that inflame hatred. Our right to vote is what will see an establishment that supports systemic racism burn to the ground.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be His Helper, validates this, stating: “If a person or group wishes to change the government, then they should do so by following the proper democratic process.”

“They should make themselves heard by voting at the ballot box … This is the true Islam.” (Ibid) The activist, Michael Render addressed protesters and advised: “Now is the time to plot, plan, strategise, organise and mobilise. It is time to beat up prosecutors you don’t like at the voting booth. It is time to hold mayoral offices accountable, chiefs and deputy chiefs.”

(CNN, Killer Mike urges Atlanta protesters ‘not to burn your own house down’ in emotional plea) 3 November is just around the corner.

In mere months, the 2020 United States elections will be held. All 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives, 35 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate and the office of president of the United States will be contested.

No amount of protest, looting or street violence will bring George Floyd back. But exercising our right to vote and changing the faces of power can ensure that another innocent life will not be robbed from us.

Don’t let George Floyd die in vain. Vote!

Let us also remember these words of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa: “It is the duty of members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to pray for both sides to desist from excesses and cruelties. Those who can help to create a peaceful environment within their spheres of influence should make efforts towards doing so. May Allah the Almighty save the world from a state of anarchy and may disorder and strife rapidly transform into a state of peace.” (Friday Sermon, 9 January 2015)

Detroit Jamaat’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations during lockdown Syed Shamshad Nasir Missionary, USA

Muhammad Ahmad Sahib of Detroit reports that Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Detroit continued the tradition of participating in daily dars-ul-Quran and dars-ul-Hadith via Zoom meetings during the entire month of Ramadan.

The daily dars would start at 6:45pm and continue until 8:15pm. Missionary Syed Shamshad Nasir Sahib continued to prepare and deliver the dars. At the end of the daily dars, members asked questions on varied topics that Shamshad Sahib would answer.

This year, due to the virtual arrangements for the daily dars, in addition to Detroit Jamaat, members from Dayton, Columbus, Virginia, Chicago and Harrisburg were able to join and listen to the dars. The overall

participation was particularly good, with more than 550 members from across various Jamaats benefiting the daily dars.

On 23 May 2020, the daily dars sessions concluded with silent prayer led

by Shamshad Nasir Sahib. After the silent prayer, President Jamaat Detroit, Maqbool Tahir Sahib thanked Shamshad Nasir Sahib for his daily dars.

Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated on 24 May 2020. Due to state restrictions on large gatherings, Jamaat members were advised to offer Eid prayers at home. A few members were able to offer the Eid prayer at Masjid Mahmood, where Shamshad Nasir Sahib led the prayers and delivered the Eid Sermon.

“Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of fasting.

Muslims must strive to maintain the same level of piety observed during the month of Ramadan. They must continue to partake in

acts of charity and supplication while staying away from negative thinking, despair and materialistic desires” said Shamshad Nasir Sahib.

He also said, “You put your Satan in chains during the holy month of Ramadan, therefore let it remain in chains; don’t free him again.”

This year’s Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr was unusual and historic. Members did not go to the mosque to prostrate side by side in prayer with their fellow Ahmadi Muslims. It was a humbling and empowering experience for many members who led the Eid prayer in their homes with their families.

Messages from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa, along with a message from Amir Jamaat USA, Sahibzada Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib were shared and read after the Eid Sermon.

“If Ahmadi Muslims wish to celebrate Eid in the true sense, then where they seek to attain the blessings of the true Eid by bringing about a moral reformation, they should also make every effort to free the world from injustices and should engage fervently in prayer” advised Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa in his Eid-ul-Fitr Sermon of 2015.

Although members were not able to gather and enjoy the traditional meal and sweets in Masjid Mahmood that are normally part of the Eid festivities, the Jamaat did arrange gift packs of sweets that were delivered to homes of Detroit Jamaat members thus sharing the happiness and joy of this special occasion.

May Allah help all the volunteers who not only prepared the gift packs but also delivered to homes. Amin.

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

10

100 Years Ago...

Islam in Europe and Ahmadi Muslim converts Al Fazl, 31 May 1920 Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

The Promised Messiahas is the only light Dear friends! the world is in darkness. 4 Star Street is a place in Europe from where the rays of light are reaching and will reach the gloomy world through God’s newly created means. Now, there is only one light under the sky. Only one light of God and it is the Promised Messiahas. Whoever believes in him will be blessed and whoever rejects him will be rejected from heaven. Whoever leaves him will surely be left. He who hates his poor servants will be hated by the God of the Messiahas. Fishermen have become human influencers [i.e. simple men are effectively persuading people towards Islam] and the insignificant were granted fame.

Unfortunate are those who are far from the [spiritual] food of the Promised Messiahas and fortunate are those who not only take pride in eating of his table but also present them to others. This is the belief and faith with which Ahmadi missionaries work and owing to it, they have the confidence and certainty of conquering the world, insha-Allah!

Series of lectures in Richmond Richmond is a beautiful place in the suburbs of London with plenty of fresh air and inhabited by high class people. A series of lectures has been started with the intention of conveying the message of truth to the people there. In addition to publishing lecture advertisements in the Richmond

Times, posters i.e. large advertisements were pasted on the walls of Richmond, Twickenham and nearby areas in eyecatching, bold blue letters. If you come to the UK in the world of imagination and happen to see a place of posters in the bazars of Richmond, you will be delighted to read the following announcement: Ethrington Hall, Richmond “A series of lectures on Islam and British Empire will be delivered by Fatih Mohammad Sayal MA, Qadian, Punjab (India).

On May 3rd, 10th and 20th at 8pm Admission free All are cordially invited” The first lecture of the said series was delivered at its scheduled time with great competence and excellence. The missionaries of Ahmadiyyat conveyed the message of truth to the people in the best possible way and mentioned the name of God’s chosen one, the messenger of the age, Ahmadas of Qadian, in the Ahmadiyya style.

Insha-Allah, the rest of the lectures will be held on 10 and 20 May with their full glory.

Sincere letter of respected Hameeda Bottomley Respected Hameeda Bottomley, may Allah safeguard her, sent her request of Bai‘at in the court of Khilafat. Below is her sincere letter: “Your Holiness! I am writing this letter of request to you so that Huzoor accepts my request of Bai‘at and bless me with the

honour of entering the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.

“I developed interest in the teachings of Ahmadiyyat ever since I took a magazine entitled Call to Truth from Mr Nayyar (on the occasion of the arrival of the Shah of Iran at Victoria Station). After studying it, I sent it to my husband. My husband was delighted to read this magazine. Immediately, he started corresponding with Mr Nayyar and ultimately became a true Ahmadi. I will sincerely do the same as what all faithful and sincere Ahmadis do. I hope that Huzoor will include me as a servant in the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and pray that I may be able to help in this good work which Mr Sayal and Mr Nayyar are doing here.

“I am a sincere servant of Huzoor, Gertrude Litaya Hameeda Bottomley” Birthday of Saeeda and Fatima Faith In this country, it is customary to celebrate birthdays and give presents to children on their birthdays. The birthday of respected Saeeda Faith, elder daughter of Brother Muhammad Suleiman Faith, was on 18 April. A handkerchief sent by Sheikh Fazl Karim Sahib, brought by Babu Azizuddin Sahib from Bombay reached Saeeda right on her birthday. The innocent Saeeda received the handkerchief and said: “Allah knew it was my birthday.”

On 22 May was the birthday of Brother Faith’s youngest daughter, Fatima. Yet again we went to the house of Brother Faith to cause a positive impact on the little hearts of the children. We prayed for little Fatima, her

parents and siblings.

Tabligh in various ways A very scholarly article of Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal, carrying the title “Imperial Politics” was published in the magazine Britain and India. On May Day, i.e. on 1 May, the labours here staged spectacular processions and demonstrations. Taking advantage of the opportunity, a large amount of Ahmadiyya literature was distributed among them.

(Translated by Al Hakam)

An Ahmadi Muslim lady convert from Norway and her passion for Islam Al Fazl, 31 May 1920 Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

Our new Sister I had a letter of sister Amina Thomson published in one of the previous issues of Al Fazl under the title “Islam in Norway” and her intentions to correspond, to come to London and to write letters to Norwegian newspapers etc. was mentioned. According to this resolution, sister Amina came to London and presently, she is the guest of honour at the Ahmadiyya Mission, located at 4 Star Street [London].

At the time of publication of the previous

letter, our sister was a Muslim by faith and had in her heart a sense of reverence and respect for Prophet Muhammadsa of Arabia and the Holy Quran, and she was also associated with the Ahmadiyya Mission.

However, by then she did not have the honour of doing Bai‘at of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra].

The very day she arrived and stayed over here resulted in the blessing of Bai‘at for her and thus, in the current week, a “white bird” flew from the east coast of the German Sea, i.e. the country of Norway and submitted to the Promised Messiah of God, Ahmadas

Nabiyullah [Prophet of Allah], may my parents be sacrificed for him. Consequently, Mrs Thomson had the honour of receiving the enviable title of Amina Ahmadi Lady, Alhamdolillah!

Sister Amina Thomson intends to spend some money for the promulgation of Ahmadiyyat in Norway through the income of her property in Norway (which is currently under trial) and also, from the earnings of her property in East Africa. [She desires that] Ahmadiyya literature should be published in the Norwegian language and the message of Islam should be spread

over there because sister Amina says from personal experience that most people in Norway are very unfamiliar with Islam. In their opinion, Muslims are idolatrous and very ill-mannered, uncivilised people. They consider what some clergymen have told them as the word of God. Ah! The same is the condition of other European countries and unfortunately, the declining state of Muslims has strengthened these ideas.

(Translated by Al Hakam)

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Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

“Surely there Jamaat Senegal’s is ease after services to humanity hardship” during Covid-19 Friday prayers commence outbreak in Kosovo

Besmir Yvejsi Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Kosovo

More than 20 years ago, when I was a child and we were in a time of war during the Kosovo-Serbia armed conflict in 1998/99, we offered Jumuah prayers with our families at home in fear and anxiety by a known enemy, but now after 20 years, we pray Jumuah prayers at home along with family members to protect ourselves from an unknown enemy. All praise belongs to Allah that: ۡ َ َ ‫ِا ّن َمﻊ ال ُع ۡ� ِر یُ ۡ� ًرا‬

Hafiz Musawer Ahmed Regional Missionary, Senegal

This year, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Senegal, in collaboration with Humanity First Senegal and Humanity First Canada, had the opportunity to help the unemployed, less privileged and needy people affected by the Covid-19, in which members of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Senegal participated extraordinarily.

This is a distinguishing feature of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya that under the divine leadership of Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, it is always engaged in the service of religion as well as in the service of humanity.

This process is not limited to one country or region, but following the instructions of Huzooraa, members of the Jamaat, individually and also under the banners of Humanity First and IAAAE collectively, are helping others, regardless of race, colour or religion, all over the world in a very organised manner.

In the beginning of March this year, when coronavirus started to spread in the world, Huzooraa issued a special instruction to members of the Jamaat to help humanity.

Members of the Jamaat all over the world responded to this instruction of Huzooraa and Humanity First also developed strategies to help victims of Covid-19.

In early April, like the rest of the world, the government of Senegal imposed lockdown and various businesses were shut

down.

As a result, a large section of the population suddenly became unemployed and there was a dramatic increase in poverty.

The economic downturn has badly hit every segment of the country.

Like all parts of the world, Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Senegal, in collaboration with Humanity First Senegal and Humanity First Canada, has served the population with government officials, such as governors, mayors and local authorities in 14 regions of Senegal.

Likewise, during the holy month of Ramadan, we contacted the underprivileged, especially in rural areas, and distributed food items and antiseptic products in the form of rations and cash assistance as well.

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Senegal has distributed food items and antiseptic products in 125 villages in 14 regions of Senegal and a large amount of cash was also distributed to deserving families.

Thus, since the onset of the coronavirus outbreak, during Ramadan and on the blessed occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, a total of 2,464 Senegalese families have been served nearly $30,000 in the form of rations and cash.

May Almighty Allah enable Jamaat-eAhmadiyya Senegal to serve mankind with full capabilities. Amin.

“Surely there is ease after hardship.”

(Surah al-Inshirah, Ch.94: V.7) On 28 May 2020, all the country’s religious buildings were opened in Kosovo, including mosques, churches and monasteries. However, believers who are visiting these by all means should follow a safety protocol that helps prevent the spread of Covid-19.

According to the Ministry of Health for the Republic of Kosovo, it is recommended that Muslims continue to adhere to the prescribed measures to prevent the spread of the virus, which continues to be present in Kosovo. For example, those who visit mosques in Kosovo should continue to observe the following measures: Ablution should be performed at home; wear masks; hand sanitisers should be available in mosques; maintain social distancing; no gatherings in mosques other than for the purpose of prayer; no lectures other than Friday sermons; Friday sermons

should not last more than 10 minutes and finally, communal bathrooms and toilets should not be used.

On 16 March 2020, when the first few cases of coronavirus were recorded, all religious buildings that were visited by believers were temporarily closed by a government decision. The call to prayer (azan) in the mosques of Kosovo has always been heard, but no one has been able to visit them except the muazzins; the same has happened with the church bells in that they have rung, but no one has been able to visit them on Sundays to attend mass.

However, for Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo, it has been something different. Following the government’s recommendations and also in accordance to the instructions of Hazrat Amirul Momineen, may Allah be his Helper, many members prayed Friday prayers in their homes with their families. For two and a half months, Jamaat Kosovo has distributed a notice of the Friday prayer every Thursday through social media groups.

On 29 May 2020, at the centre of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Kosovo in Prishtina and in its two other branches in Peja and Mitrovica, after two and a half months, the Friday prayer was offered in congregation.

The measures set by the government of Kosovo and the ministry of health were also followed. Many members have felt nostalgia that after such a long interval, they were finally meeting again to offer Friday prayers.

Praise be to Allah the Almighty that Kosovo is slowly moving away from the pandemic. Alhamdolillah.

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

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Friday Sermon 8 May 2020 Men of Excellence After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said:

Today I shall narrate the accounts from the life of Hazrat Khabbabra bin Al-Arat, a Badri Companion.

Hazrat Khabbabra belonged to the tribe of Banu Saad bin Zaid. His father’s name was Arat bin Jandala. His title was Abu Abdillah and, according to some, it was also Abu Muhammad and Abu Yahya.

During jahiliyyah, i.e. the period prior to the advent of the Holy Prophetsa, he was sold in Mecca as a slave and was a slave of Utbah bin Ghazwan. According to some, he was a slave of Umm-e-Anmaar Khuza‘iyyah. He was a confederate of the Banu Zuhrah tribe.

He was the sixth person amongst the early Companions to accept Islam.

He was amongst the first people to have professed their faith openly and had to bear extreme hardships due to that.

Hazrat Khabbabra had accepted Islam prior to the Holy Prophetsa coming to Dar-e-Arqam and preaching from there.

(Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, pp. 121-122, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (AlIsabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 2, p.

221, Khabbab bin al-Arat Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 147, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Mujahid states: “The first people to have openly professed their belief in Islam after accepting the message of the Holy Prophetsa were as follows: Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Khabbabra, Hazrat Suhaibra, Hazrat Bilalra, Hazrat Ammarra and Hazrat Sumayyahra, the mother of Hazrat Ammarra. The Messengersa of Allah was protected by Allah the Almighty through his uncle, Abu Talib, while Hazrat Abu Bakrra was protected by his own people.”

Although the author of this is writing in a certain context, but one thing that is certain and perhaps the author also forgot to mention, is that despite stating that Abu Talib, the uncle of the Holy Prophetsa, protected him or that he was given protection due to him, but neither did the Holy Prophetsa himself remain safe from the atrocities committed by the mushrikeen [idolaters] of Mecca, nor did Hazrat Abu Bakrra and history bears testimony to this. They were also made a target of various kinds of cruelties and even against Hazrat Abu Talib. The author of this narration, however, states that that they remained safe, but as I have mentioned, this is his own view because history tells us that neither did the Holy Prophetsa, nor did Hazrat Abu Bakrra remain safe from these cruelties.

In any case, he further writes, “Although these two remained safe, all the others were put in iron chains. They were

burnt under the intense heat of the sun and they endured the iron chains and the heat for as long as and as much as Allah so ordained.”

Sha‘bi states: “Hazrat Khabbabra showed great perseverance and did not accept the demand of the disbelievers to reject Islam. Hence, they put hot stones on his back until the flesh of his back melted away.” This entire narration is from Usdul Ghabah. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 147, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub alIlmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Narrating the details of another incident related to Hazrat Khabbabra that took place when Hazrat Umarra accepted Islam, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra states in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin: “Only a few days had passed after the acceptance of Hazrat Hamzahra, when Allah the Exalted blessed the Muslims with another instance of happiness, in other

words, Hazrat Umarra who was a vehement enemy, accepted Islam. The story of his acceptance is very interesting.” Many people have heard or read this account but I will mention the details of this account as narrated by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra. And it also important to mention with reference to the historical accounts of Hazrat Khabbabra. “The disposition of Hazrat Umarra enclosed a kind of stiffness, which was further increased by his enmity towards Islam. Therefore, prior to his acceptance of Islam, Umarra subjected poor and weak Muslims to great torture on account of their Islam. But when he was exhausted of inflicting this agony and saw no signs of their return, he thought, ‘Why not finish the founder of this very fitna’, i.e. the Holy Prophetsa. Upon this thought, he took hold of his sword and set out in search of the Holy Prophetsa.

“On the way, when someone noticed him walking with an unsheathed sword in his hand, he enquired, ‘O Umar[ra], where to?’ Umarra responded, ‘I have set off to slay Muhammad[sa].’ He replied, ‘By slaying Muhammad[sa] can you remain safe from the Banu Abdi Manaf? Why do you not look after your own home first? Your sister and brother-in-law have accepted Islam.’

“Hazrat Umarra immediately turned and started walking towards the home of his sister Fatimahra. As he approached the home, he could hear the sound of the recitation of the Holy Quran from inside, which Khabbabra bin Al-Arat was reciting very melodiously.

“When Umarra heard this voice, he was further enraged and entered the home. As soon as Khabbabra heard his footsteps, he hid somewhere and Fatimahra also hid the various pages of the Holy Quran here and

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Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

Humanity First serving food in the USA Shamshad Nasir, Missionary, USA

there.” Hazrat Umar’sra sister’s name was Fatimah. “When Hazrat Umarra entered, he shouted, ‘I heard that you have left your faith!’ Then, he attacked his brotherin-law Saeedra bin Zaid. Fatimahra was also wounded as she moved forward, in an attempt to save her husband, and very courageously said, ‘Yes Umar! We have become Muslim. Do as you wish, we shall not leave Islam.’

“Hazrat Umarra was a very stern man, but beneath this veil of sternness was also a touch of love and tenderness, which showed its colours at certain occasions.

When he heard the courageous words of his sister, he cast a glance upon her and noticed that she was covered in blood.

This sight had an inexplicable impression upon the heart of Umarra. After a short silence, he said to his sister, ‘Show me the word that you were reading.’ ‘I shall not,’ responded Fatimahra, ‘for you will destroy the pages.’ Umarra replied, ‘Nay, Nay! Please show me, I shall indeed return them to you.’ ‘But you are unclean,’ said Fatimahra, ‘and the Quran should be touched in a state of purity. First bathe, then read.’”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra writes: “Perhaps her desire was also that by taking a bath, Umar’sra rage would fully subside, after which he would be able to reflect with a cool heart. When Umarra had taken a bath, Fatimahra placed the pages of the Quran before him. When he took hold of them and saw, they were the opening verses of chapter Ta Ha. Hazrat Umarra began to read them with an awe-inspired heart and every single word deeply impressed the heart of this well-natured man. While reading, Hazrat Umarra reached the following words: ۡ َ َّ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ َ ۤ َّ َ ٰ ۤ َ ُ ّٰ َ َ ۤ َّ ‫الص ٰلوۃ ل ِ​ِذک ِر ۡی‬ ‫ِان ِن ۡی انا اللہ لا ِالہ ِالا انا فاعبدنِ ۡی ۙ و اقِ ِم‬ َ َ ۡ َ ُّ ُ ٰ ۡ ُ َ ۡ ۡ ُ ُ َ َ ٌ َ ٰ َ َ َّ َّ ٰ ۡ ‫س ِبما تسعی‬ ٍۭ ‫ِان الساعۃ ا ِتیۃ اکاد اخ ِفیہا ل ِتجزی کل نف‬ “Meaning, ‘Verily, I am Allah; there is no God beside Me. So serve Me, and observe Prayer for My remembrance.

Surely, the Hour is coming; I am going to manifest it, that every soul may be

recompensed for its endeavour.’ (Surah Ta Ha, Ch.20: V.15-16) “When Hazrat Umarra recited this verse, it was as if his eyes were opened and his latent disposition was suddenly aroused. He powerlessly said, ‘What a strange and holy word this is!’

“When Khabbabra heard these words, he immediately came out, thanked God and said: “‘This is due to the prayer of the Messengersa of Allah. By God, it was only yesterday I heard the Holy Prophetsa pray that, “O Allah! Do bless either “Umar bin Al-Khattab or Amr bin Hisham (meaning Abu Jahl) with Islam.”’

“Every moment was now becoming difficult for Hazrat Umarra” after having read the Holy Quran and realising the true status of the holy Prophetsa, “and so he said to Khabbabra, ‘Tell me the way to Muhammadsa at once.’ In the fervour of his excitement, he kept his sword unsheathed.” He did not even remember to place the sword back in its cover.

“During this time, the Holy Prophetsa was in Dar-e-Arqam; as such, Khabbabra gave him the location. Umarra went there and firmly knocked on the door. When the companionsra peered through the crack in the door and saw Umarra holding an unsheathed sword, they were reluctant in opening the door, but the Holy Prophetsa said, ‘Open the door.’ Hazrat Hamzahra” who was also present there” also said, ‘Open the door. If he has come with pure intentions then well and good, otherwise, if his intentions are evil, by Allah, I shall sever his head by his own sword.’

“The door was opened and Umarra entered with an unsheathed sword in hand. Upon seeing him, the Holy Prophetsa moved forward and taking hold of Umar’sra mantle, he pulled it, saying, ‘O Umar, with what intention have you come? By Allah, I see that you have not been created for the chastisement of Allah.’ ‘O Messengersa of Allah,’ responded Umarra, ‘I wish to become a Muslim.’

“When the Holy Prophetsa heard these words, in the fervour of his happiness, he

Humanity First volunteers across the USA are engaged in offering economic and medical services. Rations and cooked meals are distributed for several hours every day.

Doctors and other medical staff are also providing information through the helpline.

While the coronavirus has killed nearly 400,000 people worldwide, the USA tops the list with more than 100,000 deaths.

These volunteers of Humanity First are seen standing shoulder to shoulder with the American people, to help at every opportunity.

Ration distribution centers have been set up at Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya mosques in various parts of the country and at various places in collaboration with other government and charitable organisations; with 333,582 rations or cooked meals distributed from 1 to 8 May 2020. For this, 280 people volunteered and worked for over 38,150 man hours.

Most significantly, at the Hadi Mosque in Central Jersey, rations and cooked meals were distributed to 5,471 beneficiaries, 20,743 across Chicago, 32,610 in New York, 6,189 in Philadelphia, 3,210 at the Bait-ulEhsan in Seattle, 95,360 at the Masroor mosque in Virginia, and 2,288 needy people were served at the Bait-ur-Rehman mosque in Silver Spring.

Humanity First volunteers are providing

said, ‘Allahu Akbar!’ and his companionsra called out the slogan of ‘Allahu Akbar’ so loudly that the mountains of Mecca began to resonate.” (Sirat KhatamunNabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, pp. 157-159) Hazrat Khabbabra relates, “Once we expressed our troubles and hardship to the Holy Prophetsa. At the time, the Holy Prophetsa was sitting on his sheet, reclining in the shade of the Ka‘bah. We submitted before him, ‘Will you not seek help for us? Will you not pray to Allah for us in these difficult conditions?’ The Holy Prophetsa replied: “‘Look here! There were a people before you, for whom a ditch would be dug and he would then be placed inside it.

Then a saw would be placed on his head, cutting him into two pieces, yet this could not deter him from his faith. Or, his flesh would be clawed off from his bones and tendons with iron rings, yet this could not hinder him from his faith.’ The Holy Prophetsa then stated, ‘By Allah! Allah will surely fulfil this work (meaning his

food as well as masks and gloves to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Beneficiaries include deserving people visiting local hospitals and clinics, and at the centers set up by the police and Humanity First.

An American woman sent a letter to Humanity First in which she praised their work, saying that while driving her car past Masroor mosque in Virginia, she saw a long line of vehicles in front of the mosque, which were waiting to enter the mosque to collect rations.

She appreciated the service and also posted this positive opinion on her Facebook. The woman also donated on the Humanity First’s website.

A family in Florida, after receiving cooked food from Humanity First student volunteers, said it was the best food in a week during the pandemic.

Another person told us that he works in a hospital and his job is about to end in two weeks. He also said that he sends money to his family in Mexico and does not want to tell them that his job is about to end. The money he can save from the weekly rations received from Humanity First can help him and his family in these difficult times.

We humbly pray to Allah the Almighty to reward these humble efforts of the volunteers of Humanity First in these days and to keep the world safe from this deadly disease. Amin

mission would surely be fulfilled). He will surely fulfil the purpose for which I have come. There will be times of ease as well.’ He further stated, ‘This will be to the extent that a rider will travel from Thana to Hadhar Maut.” Thana and Hadhar Maut are two cities in Yemen and it is said that the distance between the two is 216 miles.

In any case the Holy Prophetsa stated, “That the rider will undertake this journey and he will be afraid of none other than Allah”, or he said, “He will only fear his sheep being attacked by a wolf.” The Holy Prophetsa then stated, “You however are showing impatience.” In other words, this could only be achieved by demonstrating patience. This is a narration from Bukhari.

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Manaqib, Bab Alamat an-Nubuwwah fil Islam, Hadith 3612) (Mu’jamul Buldan, Vol. 2, p. 311, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) This narration is also written at another instance as such: Hazrat Khabbabra relates: “I went before the Holy Prophetsa who was lying under a tree and he had placed his hand under his head. I said, ‘O

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

14 Messengersa of Allah! Will you not pray for us, against those people whom we fear, that they may avert us from our faith?’

The Holy Prophetsa turned his head away from me three times, and every time I said this to him, the Holy Prophetsa would turn away. However, after the third time, the Holy Prophetsa sat up and said, ‘O people!

Fear Allah and be patient. By God! Such believing men of God have passed before you upon whose heads a saw would be placed and they would be cut into two, but they did not retract from their faith.

Fear Allah. Allah is He Who will open the way for you and take care of your affairs.’”

(Al-Mustadrak Ala al-Sahihain, Vol. 3, pp. 431-432, Kitab Marifatu al-Sahaba, Dhikru Manaqib Khabbab bin al-Arat, Hadith 5643) It is narrated by Hazrat Khabbabra, “I was a blacksmith and As bin Wa‘il owed me a debt. When I went to him to ask him to repay the debt, he said, ‘I will never repay your loan until you reject Muhammad[sa]’”, that is, until he announced that he had renounced his oath of allegiance to the Holy Prophetsa).’”

Hazrat Khabbabra further relates, “I said to him, ‘I will never reject the Holy Prophetsa, even if you die and are brought back to life’”, meaning it is impossible that I reject him. “As bin Wa‘il stated, ‘When I am brought back to life after dying’”, he proceeded to give a similar answer, “‘and I will be returned to my wealth and progeny, I will then repay your loan.’” Thus he also refused. Hazrat Khabbabra says, “It was regarding him that these verses were revealed: َ َ ُ َ َ َ َ ٰ ٰ َ َ َ ۡ َّ َ ۡ َ َ َ َ َ ‫ال لَا ۡوت� َ ّ� َمالًا ّو َول َ ًدا‬ ‫ا�رءیﺖ ال ِذی ك�ر ِبای ِتنا و ق‬ ً‫الﺮَ ۡﺣ ٰمن َع ۡهدا‬ ّ ‫اَ َّﻃ َل َﻊ ال ۡ َﻐ ۡي َﺐ اَ ِم ّاتَ َﺨ َذ ِع ۡن َد‬ ِ ً َ َ ۡ َ ٗ َ ُّ ُ َ َ ُ ۡ ُ َ َ ُ ُ ۡ َ َ َّ َ ‫اب َم ّدا‬ ِ ‫ك�ا � سنﻜتﺐ ما �قول و نمد لہ ِمن العذ‬ َ َ ۡ َُ ُ َ​َ ‫ّو نﺮِﺛ ٗہ َما �قوۡ ُل َو یَا ِت ۡينا � ۡر ًدا‬ “‘Hast thou not seen him who disbelieves in Our Signs, and says, “I shall certainly be given wealth and children?”

Has he become acquainted with the unseen or has he taken a promise from the Gracious [God]? Nay! We shall note down what he says and We shall greatly prolong for him the punishment. And We shall inherit of him all that of which he talks, and he shall come to Us all alone.’”

(Surah Maryam, Ch.19: V.78-81) (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p.

122, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Hazrat Khabbabra was a blacksmith and used to make swords. The Holy Prophetsa had great love for him and would often go and visit him. When his owner came to know that the Holy Prophetsa visited Hazrat Khabbabra, she began placing burning iron on his head. He worked with iron and he would place iron in a furnace; and so she would take it and place it on his head. Hazrat Khabbabra complained about this to the Holy Prophetsa to which he said, “O Allah! Help Khabbabra”, which shows that the Holy Prophetsa prayed for him. The result was that, it is narrated, his owner Umm-e-Anmaar developed an ailment of the head and she would whimper like a dog. She was advised to get branded, meaning have burning

iron placed on her head. And so Hazrat Khabbabra would brand her head with burning iron. She was left with no choice, and thus would have Hazrat Khabbabra place burning iron on her head. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 148, Khabbab bin alArat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Abu Layla Kindi narrates that Hazrat Khabbabra went to Hazrat Umarra. Hazrat Umarra asked him to come closer because there was no one other than him, beside Hazrat Ammar bin Yasirra, who was more worthy of being in this gathering. Hazrat Khabbabra then showed the scars on his back which he received from the afflictions of the idolaters. This is a narration of AtTabaqatul Kubra. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 122, Khabbab bin alArat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) There is another narration giving the details of the incident in which he showed the scars on his back. Sha‘bi relates that Hazrat Khabbabra went to Hazrat Umarra bin al-Khattab. Hazrat Umarra then had him seated in that particular gathering and said, “There is no one on the face of this earth worthier than you to be in this sitting, beside one other person.” Hazrat Khabbabra asked, “O Amirul Momineen, who is that person?” Hazrat Umarra replied, “He is Bilalra”. Hazrat Khabbabra then said, “O Amirul Momineen, he is not more worthy of this than I, for when he was in the hands of the idolaters, he always had a helper, through whom he would be saved by God Almighty. As for me, I had no helper to protect me.” Hazrat Khabbabra then said, “One day I found myself in a situation where I had been seized by a group of people. They lit a fire and threw me onto the burning coals. One of them threw me onto the burning coal and another placed his feet on my chest. It was only my back that saved me from the burning ground.” Or he said that it was only his back that kept the ground cool.

He then removed the cloth from his back which had become all white like one who suffers from vitiligo. (Al-Tabaqaat-ulKubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 123, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) That is to say that when he was thrown on the burning coal there was nothing to cool the coal down, it was merely the skin and flesh of his back that cooled it down.

Then, there is another narration in this regard which is as follows. Sha‘bi narrates that Hazrat Umarra enquired from Hazrat Khabbabra about the difficulties he had to endure from the idolaters. He answered, “O Amirul Momineen, look at my back.”

When Hazrat Umarra saw his back he said, “I have never seen such a back.” Hazrat Khabbabra told him, “A fire would be lit and I would be dragged in it. Furthermore, there was nothing to put this fire out other than the flesh on my back.” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 148, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Darul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Whilst describing this incident, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra writes: “Bear in mind that those who suffered the most afflictions after accepting the Holy Prophetsa were the slaves. Hazrat

Khabbabra bin al-Arat was a slave and worked as a blacksmith. He accepted the Holy Prophetsa in the very early days.

“He would be subjected to severe cruelties at the hands of the people, to the extent that he would be made to lie down on burning coal from his own furnace and a large stone would be placed on his chest so he would not be able to move.

Those that were responsible for paying his wages refused to pay him. Despite all the persecution and financial difficulties, he did not waver even for a minute and remained steadfast in his faith. The scars on his back were visible until the end of his life. During the Khilafat of Hazrat Umarra, Hazrat Khabbabra spoke about the previous hardships, to which he asked Hazrat Khabbabra to lift his shirt from his back. When Hazrat Khabbabra lifted his shirt, his back was covered in white marks, like one who suffers from vitiligo.”

(Dunya ka Mushinsa, Anwarul Ulum, Vol.

10, p. 273) In another instant Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra states: “One of these early slave converts named Khabbabra bin Al-Arat had his back exposed. The people who were with him saw that his skin was not normal and instead had become hardened like that of an animal. They were shocked to see this and enquired which ailment he was suffering from. Hazrat Khabbabra laughed and said, ‘It was not an ailment; only a memory of those early days when the people of Mecca would drag Muslim slaves who had converted to Islam, such as us, through the streets of Mecca over hard and hot sands and stones. They would continue to mete out this cruelty as a result of which my back bears these scars.’” (Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwarul Ulum, Vol. 20, p. 193) These early converts to Islam were not only poor, but many of them were slaves as

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well. After converting to Islam, they had to endure many difficulties. As we have heard in reference to Hazrat Khabbabra, they were made to lay down on burning coals and dragged across stones. They endured these hardships in the early days, however when Islam spread God Almighty granted them countless blessings and bestowed upon them an eminent status in the world.

Whilst mentioning this, on one occasion, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “During his Khilafat, on one occasion, Hazrat Umarra came to Mecca. All the renowned chiefs of the eminent tribes came to greet him. They thought that since Hazrat Umarra was fully acquainted with their families, and they themselves were the chiefs of their tribes, Hazrat Umarra would extend them respect and honour and through this they would be able to establish some of their tribes lost glory. Thus, when they came to meet Hazrat Umarra, they began conversing

with him. Whilst they were engaged in conversation, Hazrat Bilalra joined this gathering. A short while later Hazrat Khabbabra arrived and thus one by one, all the [former] slaves who accepted Islam in its early years came to the gathering.

All of them were previously slaves of the chiefs that were sat in the gatherings or they were slaves belonging to their forefathers. When they were in bondage, those chiefs would inflict the most severe cruelties upon them. Each time one of these slaves”, i.e. they were slaves in the previous times, “such as Hazrat Bilalra and Hazrat Khabbabra, Hazrat Umarra would greet each one of them and welcome them and request if the chiefs could kindly move back. Usually in gatherings the chiefs would be seated at the front. When these early converts to Islam came to the gathering, Hazrat Umarra would request the chiefs of Mecca to move back in order to allow them to be seated in the front.

To the extent that the young chiefs that had come to meet Hazrat Umarra kept on moving back, eventually reaching the door.”

In those days there were no large halls, it would have been a small room.

As they would not have all fitted inside, hence moving backwards the chiefs ended up sitting near to where the shoes were placed.

“When these chiefs were forced to sit where the shoes were placed and they saw with their own eyes that each one of the [former] slaves were made to sit ahead of them, they felt greatly aggrieved.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “God Almighty arranged in a manner whereby coincidentally, all those Muslims who were once slaves of the disbelievers, all came to the gathering one after the other. If these chieftains were made to move back at once, they may not have felt anything, yet since they were made to move back a number of times, they were unable to bear it and left the gathering.

Outside they began to complain to one another expressing how they had been humiliated and how they were made to move back every time a slave came to the gathering, eventually being made to sit amongst the shoes. At this, one of the youths said, ‘Who is to blame for this; Umarra or our forefathers? If you take a minute to ponder, you will realise that no blame lies with Hazrat Umarra. It is the fault of our forefathers that we are being punished today. This is because when God Almighty appointed the Holy Prophetsa, our forefathers opposed him, but those slaves accepted him and happily endured every kind of difficulty. Therefore, if today we have had to suffer humiliation it is not due to Hazrat Umarra, rather it is our own fault.’ Upon hearing this, the others said, ‘Agreed, this is all due to the actions of our forefathers, however is there a way to remove this blemish or not?’

They all conferred amongst themselves and thought that since they were unable to think of an answer, they ought to ask Hazrat Umarra for a solution to their predicament. Thus, they came to Hazrat Umarra and said, ‘You are fully aware of what happened to us today, as too are we.’

Hazrat Umarra replied, ‘Forgive me, for I was obliged to act in this manner, as those people were honoured in the gatherings of the Holy Prophetsa. They may have been your slaves, but in the gatherings of the Holy Prophetsa they were shown honour and respect. Therefore, it was my duty to also show them the same respect.’ They replied, ‘We are aware that this was owing to our own shortcomings, however is there a way whereby we can remove this blemish?’”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states: “It is very difficult for us to envisage just how much influence these chiefs wielded over Mecca. However, Hazrat Umarra was fully aware of the situation of their tribes. Hazrat Umarra was born and raised in Mecca. He knew full well the power and influence the forefathers of these young chiefs commanded. Hazrat Umarra knew that no man could even have dared to look them in the eye and he

knew the level of authority and command their forefathers had. Hazrat Umarra recalled each one of these incidents and was overcome with intense emotion to the extent that he was unable to speak as a result of it. All he could do was to point towards the north, i.e. towards Syria, which meant that Muslims were engaged in battle in Syria. If they went and fought in these battles, it is possible for them to atone for those mistakes. Thus, those young chiefs stood up and swiftly made their way to this battle.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states, “History bears testimony that not a single one of these young chiefs returned from the battle and instead were all martyred during combat. They all attained martyrdom in those lands and in this way, they were able to remove this blemish from their family name which had become a cause of humiliation for them.” (Tafsir-eKabir, Vol. 8, pp. 65-67) Thus, ultimately, one has to offer sacrifices. Those who offered sacrifices in the early days of Islam were granted honour, whereas those who joined later and wanted to remove this blemish, which was a cause of shame for them also had to offer sacrifices.

When Hazrat Khabbabra and Hazrat Miqdadra bin Amr migrated to Medina, they both stayed at the house of Hazrat Kulthumra bin al-Hidam and continued to stay there till Hazrat Kulthum’sra demise. Hazrat Kulthumra passed away shortly before the Holy Prophetsa left for Badr. Thereafter, they went to live with Hazrat Saadra bin Ubadah and continued to live there until the victory over Banu Quraizah in 5 AH. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 123, Khabbab bin alArat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 2, p. 57, Ghazwah Rasulillahsa ila Bani Quraizah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) The Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Khabbabra and Hazrat Tamimra, who was the freed slave of Hazrat Khirashra bin Simmah. However, according to another narration, the Holy Prophetsa established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Khabbabra and Hazrat Jabarra bin Atiq.

According to Allama ibn Abd-al-Barr, the first narration is more authentic. (AlIsti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 21, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Jeel, Beirut) Hazrat Khabbabra participated in all the battles alongside the Holy Prophetsa, including the Battle of Badr, Uhud and Khandaq. (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 123, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) Abu Khalid relates: “One day we were sitting in the mosque and Hazrat Khabbabra entered and quietly sat down. The people said to him, ‘Your friends have assembled around you so that you may grant them some advice or instructions.’ Hazrat Khabbabra replied, ‘What instruction shall I give? I fear that I may issue an instruction which I fail to fulfil myself.’” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p.

149, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003)

Friday 5 June 2020 | AL HAKAM

16 Such was the fear of Allah the Almighty and the standard of righteousness these people possessed.

Abdullah bin Khabbab relates from his father: “On one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa led the prayer and significantly prolonged it. People enquired, ‘O Messengersa of Allah! You have led the prayer in a manner which you have never led it before.’ The Holy Prophetsa replied, ‘This was a prayer filled with love and fear. I asked three things from Allah the Almighty and He has granted me two of them and not the third. I asked Allah to save my Ummah from being destroyed by the affliction of a famine, which Allah accepted. I then asked Allah that protect my Ummah from being overcome by their enemy, which Allah the Almighty accepted.’” The Ummah of the Holy Prophetsa continues to remain established and if any one overcomes the Muslims, it is the fault of those Muslim governments which allow it to happen.

However, the Ummah of the Holy Prophetsa continues to remain established by the grace of Allah the Almighty. “‘I then prayed to Allah the Almighty that my Ummah not fight amongst one another. However, Allah did not grant me this.’” (Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Abwab al-Fitan, Bab Ma Ja’a fi Su’al an-Nabisa Thalathan fi Ummatihi, Hadith 2175) As a result, we can see today that Muslims have been divided into various sects and are issuing Fatwas [edicts of disbelief] against one another.

It is related from Tariq that a delegation consisting of the Holy Prophet’ssa companions went to visit Hazrat Khabbabra when he was ill and said, “O Abu Abdullahra! Rejoice, for you shall join your brother’s in the Hauz-e-Kauthar [in paradise].” Hazrat Khabbabra replied, “You have mentioned those brothers who have passed away and they did not partake of their rewards [in this life], whereas we continued to live on to the point that we have attained all that which we fear is perhaps we have granted the rewards of our deeds in this life.”

In other words, he feared that they have been granted their reward in this very world as a result of being granted worldly wealth.

Hazrat Khabbabra endured a very severe and prolonged illness. (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 149, Khabbab bin alArat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) Haritha bin Muzrib relates: “I went to Hazrat Khabbabra to visit him while he was ill. He had received seven different scars as a result of his treatment.

I heard Hazrat Khabbabra say, ‘If I had not heard the Holy Prophetsa say that it is not permissible for one to wish for their life to end, I would have indeed desired for it.’” In other words, he was experiencing such extreme pain. “When his burial cloth was brought which was made from a very thin fabric that was produced in Egypt, he began to cry. He then said, ‘A burial cloth was put over the Holy Prophet’ssa paternal

uncle, Hazrat Hamzahra, which if pulled over to cover his feet, it would leave the head uncovered. And when they would pull it over his head, his feet would be left uncovered and so idhkhir (lemon grass) was placed over his feet. I have experienced a time with the Holy Prophetsa when I did not even possess a single dinar or a dirham, but now look at my condition.’

He further stated, ‘Now I have a trunk in one corner of my house which contains 40,000 dirhams. However, I fear lest we have been granted our rewards in this very world.’” (Al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Saad, Vol. 3, p. 123, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Lughaat-ul-Hadith, Vol. 3, p. 484, Ali Asif Printers, Lahore, 2002) Hazrat Khabbabra narrates, “We migrated with the Messengersa of Allah seeking the pleasure of Allah and expecting our reward from Him. Some of us died without partaking anything from their reward. Among them was Hazrat Mus‘abra bin Umair, and there are those among us whose fruits of their deeds have ripened and they are enjoying its delight.

Hazrat Mus‘abra bin Umair was martyred in the Battle of Uhud and there was only one cloth available for us to cover him in.

When we covered his head with it, his feet were exposed and when we covered his feet with it, his head was uncovered. So the

Holy Prophetsa told us to cover his head and to put some idhkhir (lemon grass) over his feet.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Jana‘iz, Bab Idha lam Yajid Kafanan illa ma Yuwari Ra’sahu, Hadith 1276) Zaid bin Wahab relates: “We were in the company of Hazrat Alira whilst he was returning from the Battle of Siffin. When we arrived at the gates of Kufa, we noticed that there were seven graves to our right. Hazrat Alira enquired as to who these graves belonged to. The people replied, ‘O Leader of the Faithful! After you had departed for Siffin, Khabbabra passed away and he had stated in his will to be buried outside of the city of Kufa.’ In those days, it was the practise of the people that they would bury their dead in their front courtyard or near their front doors. However, when people witnessed that Hazrat Khabbabra had stated in his will to be buried outside of Kufa, they also began doing the same.

Hazrat Alira stated, ‘May Allah bestow His mercy upon Khabbabra. He accepted Islam out of his own choice and took part in the migration out of his obedience. He spent his entire life as a Mujahid [one who greatly strives for the sake of their faith] and endured trials on account of his physical health (he suffered from various illnesses for a long time). Hazrat Alira then further stated, ‘Whosever does a good

deed, Allah shall never deprive him of its rewards.’ Hazrat Alira then went close to the graves and said, ‘Peace be upon the believers and Muslims, who dwell herein.

You are those who have departed before us in order to make arrangements for us as well and we shall soon meet you. O Allah! Grant forgiveness to them and also to us and overlook their shortcomings and ours as well. Glad tidings for one who is mindful of the hereafter and performs his deeds for the Day of Reckoning and remains content with that which is sufficient enough to fulfil his needs and pleases Allah the Almighty.’” (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 149, Khabbab bin alArat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) This is the prayer offered by Hazrat ra Ali at the time. Hazrat Khabbabra passed away in 37 AH at the age of 73. (AlTabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p.

124, Khabbab bin al-Arat, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)

(Original Urdu published in Al Fazl International in the 22 May-4 June 2020 issue, pp. 11-14. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

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