Issuu

Means of attaining nearness to Allah How to gain the pleasure of Allah in this day and age

Page 8

Responding to Allegations

100 Years Ago...

Wives of the Holy Prophetsa

What made the prophecy of the plague so unique?

Devising new ways of tabligh in London

Hazrat Umm-e-Salamah

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Page 11

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THE WEEKLY

www.alhakam.org AL HAKAM | Friday 29 November 2019 | Issue LXXXIX Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre (ARC), 22 Deer Park Road, London, SW19 3TL. UK info@alhakam.org | F: +44(0)208 544 7673

A Muslim’s response to blasphemous acts

slamophobia and religious intolerance has been on the rise for some time now. The proliferation of hateful acts against Muslims in the West is quite shocking because it is the very Western nations that stand out for their high moral and ethical standards. These countries are famous for valuing life and securing peace in society, irrespective of their citizens’ religion, class, colour or creed. Hateful actions carried out to harm

or abuse any religion across the globe are condemnable and unacceptable in any just society. Whether it be letters sent to Muslims carrying the title “Punish a Muslim Day” or the heinous incident which involved the beating of a heavily pregnant Muslim lady by a man who belonged to Sydney, Australia, every kind of religious violence should be taken seriously and measures should be taken to prevent such inhuman acts in the future. Recently, another incident of religious

prejudice and hatred has surfaced in a largely Muslim populated city of Norway, Kristiansand. A man who belonged to the anti-Islamic group called SIAN (Stop the Islamisation of Norway) intentionally burnt the sacred book of Muslims, the Holy Quran. Provoked by the blasphemous act, a young Muslim man launched an attack and kicked the man performing the hateful crime. Thereafter, law enforcement came into action and neutralised the situation. Some people are praising and hailing the man who launched the attack as the “Muslim Hero” because he saved the Holy Book from being desecrated. On the other hand, several persons believe that the so-called defender of Islam, instead of drawing the attention of authorities to stop that blasphemous act, took the law into his own hands and behaved as an irresponsible citizen. The above discussion gives rise to two significant questions: “How should a government respond towards such blasphemous acts?” and “How should a Muslim react in these circumstances?” Responding to the first question, the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa says: “We tell the world that any kind of vulgar expression about any sacred person of any religion does not constitute freedom in any way at all. “You apparently champion democracy and freedom of expression, yet you play with the sentiments of others; this is neither democracy, nor freedom of expression. Everything has a limit and some code of conduct. Just as there are codes of conduct in all professions, there is also a code of conduct in journalism. “No matter what kind of government, there are rules and regulations. Freedom of expression certainly does not mean that sentiments are trifled with or are caused hurt. If this is the freedom that the West is proud of, then this freedom does not lead to advancement, rather it leads to decline.” (Friday Sermon, 17 February 2006) Underlining the reaction of an Ahmadi Muslim towards such blasphemous acts, Continued on page 2

Hadith-e-Rasul – Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa Inviting people to Allah Hazrat Anas, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Make religion easy for others to follow; do not make it difficult. Similarly, present religion in a pleasing manner; do not make it repulsive to others.” (Sahih Muslim)

Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, In His Own Words

The reason for naming the Quran “The Reminder” Now observe how the Quran has been named “The Reminder” (Al-Dhikr), because it reminds mankind of the law present within. When a subject-noun is converted to the infinitive form, this also brings it to the measure of the superlative degree. Let us presume that someone said: ‫زيد عدل‬ What would this mean? This means that Zayd is exceedingly just. The Quran has not brought a new law, but rather reminds man of the inner law present within man in the form of various faculties. There is forbearance, kindness, bravery, might, anger, contentment, etc. Hence, the Quran has reminded us of the nature vested within us. Just as Allah the Exalted states: ُ ْ َّ َ ‫ون‬ ٍ ‫اب مکن‬ ٍ ‫�ِي كِت‬

In other words, this is the hidden scripture present in the Book of Nature, which all people did not have the ability to see. As such, this book was named “The Reminder” so that when it is recited, it reminds us of the inner, spiritual faculties, and the light of the heart vested in man from heaven. Hence, Allah the Exalted has manifested a spiritual miracle by sending down the Quran, so that man may discover the insights, verities and spiritual wonders Continued on page 2

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Continued from page 1

Huzooraa said: “Our response always is, and always should be, one that is lucid in conveying the blessed model and teachings of the Holy Prophetsa as well as in presenting the teachings of the Holy Quran. Rather than getting involved in subversive activities when faced with attacks on the blessed person of the Holy Prophetsa, we turn to Allah and seek His help. ... “Our reaction should be this, as opposed to causing damage and destruction. Our attention should be drawn towards selfreflection, analysing what our deeds are, how much fear of God we have, how much attention we pay towards His worship, how much attention we pay to abiding by religious commandments and how much attention we pay to deliver the message of Allah the Exalted to others. ... “It is our obligation to inform the world. We will have to communicate to the world that Allah the Exalted has the power, even today, to punish the pain and torment you cause. “Therefore, desist from hurting Allah and His Prophetsa. However, while we have to impart the teachings of Islam and the blessed model of the Holy Prophetsa to the world, we also need to reform our deeds. It will be our deeds alone that shall silence the world and will play the most significant role in silencing the world.” (Friday Sermon, 10 February 2006) There is a dire need for nations across the globe to take ample steps in tackling and countering rising religious intolerance. On the other hand, it is necessary for every Muslim to follow the true teachings of Islam, because a wrong reaction paves way to an erroneous proclamation and the culprits eventually become the victims.

Continued from page 1 of which he was previously unaware. The ultimate cause of the Quran is: َ ‫ُه ًدى لِّ ْل ُم َّتﻘ‬ ‫ِين‬ “A guidance for the righteous.” It is unfortunate, however, that this has been forgotten and the Holy Quran is considered to be nothing more than a collection of a few stories. Like the idolaters of Arabia, they indifferently and insolently declare the Quran to be tales of the past and turn a blind eye to this book. The previous age was the era in which the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, appeared and in which the Quran was revealed, reminding people of that age of their inner strengths. Now that era has arrived about which the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, had prophesied that the people would recite the Quran, but it would not go beyond their throats. You can now see with your own eyes how people melodiously and beautifully recite the Holy Quran, but the Quran does not go deeper than their throats. Therefore, the Holy Quran, which is also named “The Reminder”, came in this early period to remind people of the hidden and forgotten truths and innate qualities within man. (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp. 92-93)

This Week in History 29 November - 5 December Selection of brief incidents from the blessed eras of ﬁrst and second Khilafat

29 November 1933: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud, may Allah be pleased with him, blessed the inauguration ceremony arranged in connection to the establishment of another mahalla (locality) named Dar-ul-Sa‘ah in Qadian. 29 November 1940: Sanatan Dharam, an orthodox division within the Lahore chapter of Hindus, convened a religious conference, which was attended by Malik Abdur Rahman Khadim Sahib representing the Jamaat, who delivered a lecture. 29 November 1948: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra instructed organisers assigned with the construction projects in the Markaz of Rabwah that they should ensure that 25,000 bricks were being prepared and uninterruptedly being supplied on a daily basis to the construction sites. On the same day, Huzoorra also visited a nearby settlement named Ahmad Nagar, where he addressed students of Jamia Ahmadiyya and Madrasa Ahmadiyya. Huzoorra also inaugurated a newly built mosque there. 30 November 1927: Hazrat Hurmat Bibi, famous by the name of Tai Sahiba – wife of the Promised Messiah’sas elder brother, Mirza Ghulam Qader Sahib – passed away. 30 November 1943: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was seriously ill. He was suffering from severe kidney pains and poor heart condition, which deteriorated due to nausea and vomiting, causing a fever. He also experienced a cough and gout on 7 December. 30 November 1944: The Ansarullah pledge was repeated for the ﬁrst time in a gathering of Majlis Ansarullah. 30 November 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a statement against the unsuitable conditions of reconciliation in the Kashmir case. 30 November 1959: The commentary of Surah alFurqan to Surah al-Shu‘ara in Tafsir-e-Kabir, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra commentary of the Quran, was published.

was not mentioned in it. This blessed work was funded by family members of the Promised Messiahas. December 1915: Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Zafarulla Khanra advocated in the case of the Monghir mosque of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. The chief justice acknowledged the young Chaudhry Zafarulla Khan Sahib’sra extraordinary abilities. December 1916: A permanent central library called “Sadiq Library” was established in Qadian. December 1916: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra launched the scheme of women’s “Preaching Fund”. December 1916: Minaratul-Masih in Qadian had been under construction from the time of the Promised Messiahas. During this month, a monumental stone was installed upon the completion of its construction. December 1919: Upon the arrival of the Punjab governor in Lahore, addresses were presented by different sects. The Ahmadiyya Jamaat said in their address that the fall of the Turkish government was a tremor to the apparent glory of Islam. December 1920: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra book, Tarke-Mawalat aur Ahkam-e-Islam was published. December 1920: The ﬁrst part of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad’sra masterpiece, Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin was published. December 1921: The book of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, Aina-e-Sadaqat (The Truth About the Split) was published. December 1922: Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad’s book, Tabligh-e-Hidayat was published. December 1922: An English newspaper, The Sunrise began publication from Qadian. The editor was Maulvi Muhammaduddin Sahib. Publication continued until October 1950.

30 November 1960: The section of Tafsir-e-Kabir from Surah al-Naml to Surah al-Ankabut was published.

December 1926: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote a letter to the Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin, containing some suggestions to reduce Hindu-Muslim tensions. This letter was published in Indian newspapers.

December 1906: Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin’sra magazine Mubadi al-Sarf was published. It was republished the following year, with further additions by the name Mubadi al-Sarf wa al-Nahw.

December 1930: A German tourist named Frederick arrived in Qadian. He remained in Qadian for two months. He shared very positive feedback, which was later published in The Review of Religions.

December 1912: The prophecy of the Promised Messiahas regarding Turkey was fulﬁlled when Turkey was defeated in the Balkan Wars. The Promised Messiahas made this prophecy nine years prior.

December 1931: An invitation was sent to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to attend a conference of Muslim scholars at Jerusalem. Hazrat Maulana Jalaluddin Shamsra attended the conference on the instruction of Huzoorra.

December 1915: The commentary of the ﬁrst part of the Holy Quran by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was published in Urdu and English, however Huzoor’sra name

December 1932: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra established a permanent reserve fund and land was purchased in

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Sindh. December 1935: A Vedic/Greek dispensary was established in Delhi with the funding of Tahrik-e-Jadid. The first nazim was Qureshi Mukhtar Ahmad Dehlvi Sahib. December 1935: The very first edition of the collection of divine revelations, dream and visions vouchsafed to the Promised Messiahas (Tadhkira) was published. December 1937: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud added an additional five demands to the 19 of Tahrik-e-Jadid. ra

December 1940: Hazrat Sheikh Ata Muhammad Sialkotira passed away. He was the elder brother of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. December 1948: An office was set up specifically to serve visitors of Qadian. December 1949: The German government recognised the residential rights of Jamaat missionaries in Hamburg and arranged a house for their accommodation. December 1952: A campaign to boycott Ahmadis was launched in Gujranwala, which was strongly condemned by the Ahl-e-Hadith spokesman of the weekly AlI‘tisam. The Jamaat’s delegation also met the officials of Gujranwala on the instructions of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra. December 1954: The quarterly magazine Peace was issued by the Borneo Ahmadiyya Mission, which was published in English and native Malay. In 1959, the magazine ceased publication.

2 December 1912: On the request of Allama Iqbal, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira sent a list of Arabic literature. 2 December 1944: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra inaugurated the expanded portion of Masjid Mubarak in Qadian. With this extension, the mosque doubled in its capacity from the previous expansion of 1907. The expansion work was supervised by Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashir Ahmadra. 2 December 1944: The first budget of Majlis Ansarullah was approved. It consisted of a 1,800-rupee income and expenses of 1,535 rupees. 2 December 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra began a series of beneficial lectures on Pakistan. The first five lectures took place at Maynard Hall College, Lahore. The first lecture took place on 2 December, entitled Pakistan’s Future in Defence, Agriculture and Industry. It was chaired by Justice Muhammad Munir Sahib. 2 December 1954: The central body of Majlis Kuddamul-Ahmadiyya hosted a banquet in honour of Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra addressed the gathering. 2 December 1960: Ahmadiyya Mission Togo was established by Mirza Lutf-ur-Rahman Sahib. 3 December 1939: In compliance with the decision of Majlis-e-Shura, the Jamaat celebrated the first day of the “Worldwide Religious Leaders” and the general public was invited to these gatherings as well. 3 December 1943: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra set up a committee to look into various issues of jurisprudence. He appointed the following three members for it:

December 1957: The volume of Tafsir-e-Kabir consisting of Surah al-Hajj and Surah al-Nur was published.

• Hazrat Maulana Syed Sarwar Shahra (Mufti of the Jamaat)

December 1958: Saudi Prince Fahd al-Faisal was given literature by the Ahmadiyya Jamaat during his visit to the Netherlands.

• Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaqra

December 1960: The second volume of the Holy Quran’s English commentary (Surah Maryam to Surah alJathiyah) was published.

3 December 1955: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra participated in a dinner, arranged in honour of overseas missionaries.

December 1960: Degree classes were initiated at Jamia Nusrat, Rabwah. December 1964: Seven new Jamaat schools were established in Ghana. December 1964: The monthly Khalid published a special issue on the Second Khilafat. 1 December 1927: The ﬁrst Arabic translation of Durre-Sameen was published. 1 December 1930: Hazrat Munshi Habib-ur-Rahman Kapurthalavira, a companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away. 1 December 1946: Hazrat Nawab Abbas Ahmad left for England to study on the instructions of Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra. He returned on 31 August 1947.

• Hazrat Maulana Abul Ata

3 December 1960: Hazrat Baba Sadaruddin Darveshra passed away. 3 December 1961: A new building of Jamia Ahmadiyya was inaugurated by Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashir Ahmadra. 4 December 1951: Hazrat Master Muhammad Akbar of Dera Ghazi Khan passed away. He performed Bai‘at in 1904.

Majlis-e-Shura Belgium 2019 Waseem Ahmed Sheikh Qaid Amoomi, Majlis Ansarullah Belgium

TAnsarullah he

24th

Majlis-e-Shura of Majlis Belgium took place on Sunday, 17 November 2019 at Baitus-Salam, Dilbeek. The Shura commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran. A welcome address was then delivered by Sadr Majlis Ansarullah Belgium, NA Shamim Ahmad Sahib. He focused attention on the importance of Shura and the responsibilities of the Shura members. Thereafter, Amir Jamaat Ahmadiyya Belgium, Dr Idrees Ahmad Sahib highlighted the responsibilities of Ansar. Thereafter, the implementation report for last year’s Shura proposal was presented by Qaid Tarbiyat, Naeem Ahmad Shaheen Sahib. Secretary Shura, Waseem Ahmed Sheikh Sahib presented the agenda of the Shura which was approved by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The department of finances proposed the budget for 2020 presented and this was presented by Qaid Mal, Abdul Basit Sahib. Then, two sub-committees were formed to discuss each of these proposals. Later, the plenary session commenced with sub-committees presenting their reports and the Majlis-e-Shura then deliberating. The recommendations of the subcommittees and any amendments thereon that constituted the final recommendations were formally agreed for submission to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa for his approval and guidance. At the end, Missionary-in-Charge, Hafiz Ehsan Secunder Sahib, Markaz Representative organised the election of Sadr Majlis and Naib Sadr Saf-e-Dom. Sadr Majlis Ansarullah Belgium then delivered his closing remarks. He pointed out to all Zuama (sing. Zaeem) the Majlis’ targets of the year. There were 50 representatives of Shura. Eight Ansar also got the chance to participate as observers.

Glasgow Tarbiyat Day

4 December 1955: Hazrat Syed Zain-ul-Abidin Waliullah Shahra was to soon depart for Damascus as a missionary. On this date, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered an address in his honour.

Arshad Mehmood Secretary Ishaat Glasgow

4 December 1955: The foundation stone of Bait-usSalam was laid in Tanganyika, part of present-day Tanzania.

cotland Jamaat organised a successful S Tarbiyat Day, which took place on 27 October 2019.

1 December 1952: Prof Dr Kurt Tiltak, a renowned orientalist from Germany sent four questions about Ahmadiyyat to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in order to ﬁnd answers.

5 December 1953: The ﬁfth two-day Jalsa Salana of the Sierra Leone Jamaat took place. 500 delegates from 41 regions participated in it. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent a message instructing all members to work unitedly and praying that God may be with them all.

1 December 1959: A gift of Ahmadiyya literature was presented to Mr Hammer Scholde, Secretary General of the United Nations in Liberia.

5 December 1957: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra announced the nikah of Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh with Hazrat Syeda Asifa Begum Sahiba.

2 December 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira appointed Hazrat Sahibzada Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra, the Amir Majlis of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, in his stead.

5 December 1957: Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira, Editor and Founder of Al Hakam passed away in India. He took Bai‘at in 1889. Throughout his lifetime, he was engaged in the jihad of the pen. Moreover, he wrote about 60 books.

The programme started at 11am with the recitation of the Holy Quran, after an opening speech by Imam Raja Burhan Ahmad Sahib and comments by Muhammad Ahsan Ahmad Sahib, Regional Amir Scotland. All members were divided into Lajna, Ansar, Khuddam and Atfal groups, where they had their separate tarbiyat workshops. A quiz competition was held by dividing male members of the Jamaat into four teams of Glasgow A, Glasgow B, Dundee & Edinburgh. After lunch and Zuhr prayer, a question and answer session was organied by Raja Burhan Ahmad Sahib and Mansoor Ahmad Zia Sahib. In total, 180 members attended and benefitted from this event.

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

4 Responding to Allegations

Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas

What made the prophecy of the plague so unique?

َ َ َّ َ ‫َو َما ن ُ ْر ِس ُل ال ْ ُم ْر َسلِي ْ َن إلَّا ُم َب ِّش ِر‬ ‫نذرِيْ َن ۚ َويُ َجا ِد ُل ال ِذيْ َن كف ُر ْوا‬ ِ ‫ين َو ُم‬ ِ ُ َ َ َ ْ ُ َ َّ َ َّ َ ْ ْ ُ ْ ُ ْ ُ‫نذ ُر ْوا ُه ُز ًوا ۔ َو َم ْن أَ ْظ َلم‬ ِ ‫ِبال َبا ِط ِل ل ِيد ِحضوا ِب ِه الحق ۖ واتخذوا آياتِي وما أ‬ َ ّ ََ ُ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ‫ات َر ِّب ِه فأع َرض َعن َها َون ِسيَ َما ق ّد َم ْت يَ َد ُاه‬ ِ َ‫ِم ّمن ذكِ َر ِبآي‬

“And We send not the Messengers but as bearers of glad tidings and as Warners. And those who disbelieve contend by means of falsehood so that they may rebut the truth thereby. And they take My Signs and what they are warned of only as a jest. And who is more unjust than he who is reminded of the Signs of his Lord, but turns away from them, and forgets what his hands have sent forward?” (Surah alKahf, Ch.18: V.57-58) A series of articles on the Internet raise allegations on various prophecies of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian. The prophecy of the plague has been highlighted at the outset. The Promised Messiahas announced: “Today, Sunday, 6 February 1898, I saw in a dream that God’s angels were planting black trees in different parts of the Punjab. Those trees were very ugly, black in colour, terrifying and small in size. I asked some of those who were planting them, ‘What kind of trees are these?’ They answered, ‘These are trees of

the plague which is about to spread in the country…’” (Tadhkirah, pp. 407-408) The article suggests that the Bubonic plague was a recurring epidemic that killed millions of human beings over a period of centuries and it had reached China in the mid-19th century, arriving in Bombay by 1898 and for it to reach the region of Punjab was inevitable. The author refers to a governmental order dated 12 February 1897 to point out that before the prediction of the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, the government was already aware about the spread of plague in Punjab and making plans to tackle it. Pondering over the revelations of the Promised Messiahas regarding the plague, we find that the author was not informed about another prophecy of the plague published by the founder of Ahmadiyya Jamaat in his book, Nur-ul-Haq in the year 1894: “Know then that Allah has breathed into my heart that the eclipses of the moon and of the sun that have occurred during Ramadan are two awe-striking Signs which have been exhibited to warn those who follow Satan and have adopted

the ways of injustice and transgression … If they persist in their denial, the time of the chastisement [plague] is near.” (Tadhkirah, pp. 324-325) Referring to the above prophecy, the Promised Messiahas states: “On pages 35 to 38 [Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 8, pp. 47-52] of my book Nur-ul- Haq, I had recorded my prophecy that God had conveyed to me that the lunar and solar eclipses that took place in the month of Ramadan were precursors of the coming chastisement. In accordance with this prophecy, such a plague broke out in the country that about 300,000 people have died so far.” (The Philosophy of Divine Revelation, p. 292 [English Translation of Haqiqatul Wahi]) Hence, the argument that the Promised Messiahas predicted the plague outbreak when he came to know about the governmental order of 1897 or the fact that the plague had reached Bombay [now Mumbai] in the year 1898, comes crashing down because Allah the Almighty had already revealed upon him in the year 1894 that the plague would spread as a chastisement for those who persist in their denial.

A very significant aspect of the prophecy has either been deliberately left by the author or he forgot to mention it. The Promised Messiahas prophesied the outbreak of plague at a time when there was hardly any plague in the Punjab and long before the plague spread like wildfire and thousands of people died on weekly basis. In those circumstances, he declared through another revelation of God Almighty that: َّ ُ ُ َّ َّ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ ُ ّ ‫اصۃ‬ ‫اِن ِ ْي ا َحا ِفظ كل َم ْن فِي الدا ِر ۔۔۔ و احا ِفظک خ‬ “I shall safeguard all those who are in this house … and I shall safeguard you in particular.” (Nuzul-ul-Masih, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 18, p. 401) In accordance with the words of Allah the Almighty, the Promised Messiahas, his family and nearly 80 members who dwelled in his house were safeguarded from the catastrophe and the town of Qadian witnessed minimal casualties as compared to other parts of the subcontinent. Moreover, the Promised Messiahas

Continued on page 5

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada commemorates Remembrance Day Syed Mukarram Nazeer Canada Correspondent

emembrance Day, also known as R Armistice Day, is commemorated on 11 November each year and marks the end of

World War I in 1918. In Canada, this is a time of remembering the men and women who served and continue to serve our country during times of conflict and peace. It is a public and federal statutory holiday, as well as a statutory holiday in all three territories and in six of the ten provinces, reports Waseem Ahmad Sahib. Inspired from the UK Jamaat’s participation in their Remembrance Day programme, Canada Jamaat also started it here. It was named “Muslims for Remembrance Day” campaign, now in its ninth year. With the Markaz’s permission, Canada Jamaat has also been coordinating with other commonwealth countries to hold Remembrance Day programmes. Alhumdolillah, many countries now regularly participate, and it can be said that

Continued from page 4

issued an open challenge to ascertain the truth of the prophecy: “I swear by God Almighty that I am the Promised Messiah. I am the one who was promised by the Prophets. The Torah, the Gospel and the Holy Quran all give news about me and the era of my advent and expound that, in the heavens, the moon and the sun would be eclipsed at the time of my appearance and a terrible plague would befall the land. This is my sign; each and every opponent – whether he lives in Amroha or Amritsar, whether in Delhi or Calcutta, whether in Lahore, Golra or Batala – if any of them should swear on oath that their area of residence shall remain free from the plague, then it will surely be swept up by the plague, for they would have committed insolence against God Almighty.” (Defence against the Plague and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp. 29-30) The Promised Messiahas repeatedly challenged his opponents to publish an announcement, if they believed that Allah was on their side, saying that their abodes would be saved from the calamity of plague. Moreover, he said that if any one of them dared to declare that their town would be saved from the plague, it would surely be engulfed by it. However, nobody accepted his challenge and divine revelation took its course. Another aspect of the prophecy was that the plague would be a means of increasing the numbers of Ahmadiyya Jamaat. The Promised Messiahas states: “I claim with full confidence and

Canada Jamaat helped them get started. There is a global coordinated effort with the hashtag, #MuslimsforRemembrance. By the grace of Allah, on Friday, 8 November, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Canada celebrated Remembrance Day throughout Canada. Due to Friday prayers, a much larger crowd comes to the mosque on Fridays, including women and children, hence why Friday was selected as the day of remembrance. Special ceremonies were held in all Canadian Jamaats. These ceremonies demonstrated that Ahmadi Muslims are proud Canadians and support the sacrifices of their veterans. More importantly, they are ready to live up to the Islamic teaching, “Love of country is part of your faith” The main event was held at Baitul Islam mosque, where Amir Jamaat Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib welcomed all those present and briefly explained the

emphasis that if one person of our Jamaat dies of the plague, 100 or even more enter into our Jamaat in his place. This plague continues to increase the number of our Jamaat and continues to decimate our opponents. Each month, at least 500 and, at times, 1,000-2,000 new persons enter the fold of the Jamaat on account of the plague. Thus, the plague is a boon for us, but a bane and a chastisement for our opponents. I am sure that if the plague continues to remain rampant as it is now for another ten to fifteen years, the entire country will be filled with the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. It is an established fact that the plague continues to increase the numbers of our Jamaat and decrease those of our opponents. And if someone can prove otherwise, I solemnly declare under oath to God that I shall pay 1,000 rupees in cash to such a person. Is there anyone to challenge this offer and collect the reward from me?” (The Philosophy of Divine Revelation, p. 713) The article raises another objection referring to following statement of the Promised Messiahas: “The wording of God’s holy revelation that was sent down to me is: ّ َ ُ َ ّ ٰ َّ َّ ٰ َ ُ َْ ‫وم َح ّتی یُغ ِی ُر ْوا َما بِانف ِسهِ ْم‬ ٍ ‫اِن الله لا یغ ِی ُر ما بِق‬ “This means that God has determined not to remove the affliction of the plague until people remove from their minds the thoughts that surge therein; that is to say, until they accept the commissioned one and Messenger of God.” (Defence against the Plague and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp. 29-30) The author suggests that the above-

Islamic perspective on patriotism. Messages from the Prime Minister of Canada Mr Justin Trudeau, Leader of the Official Opposition Mr Andrew Scheer and Premier of Ontario Mr Doug Ford were also read out. Many dignitaries, including federal and provincial ministers, federal and provincial members of parliament, mayors and councilors attended this event. Some of them were invited to speak. The Canadian National Anthem was also sung. The poem, “In Flanders Fields” and the music “Last Post” were played, followed by a twominute silence. The event concluded with silent prayers. The attendance figure was approximately 1,000. Similar events were held across Canada in Jamaat centres of Barrie, Bradford, Brampton, Calgary, Edmonton, Lloydminster, Montreal, Milton, Mississauga, Ottawa, Saskatoon, Vancouver and Windsor to name a few. Wonderful feedback was received from many of the participants. One example was

mentioned claim of the founder of Ahmadiyya Jamaat was not fulfilled and the plague subsided without a mass acceptance of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad’sas prophethood. Explaining the word “ta‘un” [plague], the Promised Messiahas states: “As a matter of fact, the word ta‘un is the name of death. Those harmful diseases which result in death are called ta‘un in the lexicon. It is a very broad word according to the lexicon. It is quite possible that this time it occurs in another form or it outbreaks in a similar manner with much more severity. The revelation of Allah the Almighty also states the words: ‫افطر و اصوم‬ “[I shall break the fast and I shall fast (again)], meaning that as it is permissible to eat and drink during the breaking of a fast, there will be a time when the plague will continue to devour people, and there will be another period of time which will be peaceful, this being the state of fasting … ‫انی مع الرسول اقوم۔ افطر و اصوم۔ لن ابرح الارض الی‬ ‫الوقت المعلوم۔‬

“[I shall stand with My messenger and shall break the fast and also observe it. I shall not depart from this land till a determined time.] People are quick to formulate an opinion for their peace and comfort. [They say] that it was like a disease, so it left. How [could it be considered] a sign or an admonishment? Hence, they console themselves through similar ideas. In reality, the word ta‘un is a very broad term. Plague [means] death

the tweet of Canadian Senator, Ms Paula Simons, who attend the event in Baitul Hadi Mosque, Edmonton. She tweeted that she had a most enjoyable and memorable day attending the Remembrance Day programme at Edmonton Mosque. This was a strong rebuttal to notable Canadian hockey commentator Don Cherry’s recent divisive remarks on live television insinuating that immigrants do not fully observe Remembrance Day. Long Live Canada!

by all those diseases which circulate after a period of time. For instance, smallpox, pleurisy, fever, tumors, vomit and coma [etc.] are included in all of these diseases.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 10, p. 287) Accordingly, there are countless epidemics that are still widespread on the face of the earth, which include plague, cholera, smallpox, AIDS and malaria etc. We have previously mentioned in an article of Responding to Allegations under the heading Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas – Part XVI that the plague continues in various shapes and forms to date. As far as the matter of mass acceptance of the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas of Qadian is concerned, it should be kept in mind that he claimed to be the Messiahas of the latter days in accordance with the prophecy of the Holy Prophetsa. The author knows full well that the majority of the world population has still not accepted Islam. So, we strongly believe that the words of God Almighty, “He it is Who has sent His Messenger with the guidance and the religion of truth, that He may cause it to prevail over all religions, even if those who associate partners with God hate it” (Surah al-Saff, Ch.61: V.10) shall surely be fulfilled and the Jamaat of the Messiah of Muhammadsa will spread Islam to the corners of the earth, Insha-Allah.

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Wives of the Holy Prophetsa

Hazrat Umm-e-Salamah “You [as a wife] already have your own status and you are a lady of noble traits.” (The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa) Awais Rabbani Missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat

Full Name: Hind bint Abi Umayya Appellation: Umm-e-Salamah (Mother of Salamah) Father’s Name: Abu Umayya ibn alMughira Mother’s name: Atka bint Amir First marriage: Hazrat Abdullahra bin Abdil Asad (also known as Abu Salamah) Marriage to the Prophetsa: Shawwal 4 AH Early days Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra was a wise and able lady from a noble and respectable family. Her father, Abu Umayya was an eminent member of his tribe known for his generosity, which earned him the title “Zad al-Rakib” i.e., the one who provides for travelers. She was amongst the first to have accepted Islam and the very first among the ladies to have migrated to Medina. Only few others had converted to Islam before her. Her first marriage was to Hazrat Abdullahra bin Abdil Asad (Abu Salamah) who was the cousin and foster brother of the Holy Prophetsa. As the persecution intesified in Mecca, she, alongside her husband, migrated to Abyssinia. Later, they returned to Mecca upon hearing that Hazrat Umarra had converted to Islam and there had been a decrease in persecution. However, it turned out to be another ruse by the Quraish to lure Muslims back to their homeland and inflict further atrocities. At this, the couple, along with their son, decided to migrate to Medina. She relates the incident in the following words: “Before we were out of Mecca, some men from my clan stopped us and said to my husband, ‘Though you are free to do what you like with yourself, you have no power over your wife. She is our daughter. Do you expect us to allow you to take her away from us?’ Then they pounced on him and snatched me away from him. My husband’s clan, Banu Abdul Asad, saw them taking me and became infuriated and enraged. ‘No! By Allah’, they shouted, ‘we shall not abandon the boy. He is our

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son and we have a first claim over him.’ They took him by the hand and pulled him away from me.” (Companions of the Prophet, Vol. 1, p.135) Hazrat Abu Salamahra was forced to leave for Medina without his wife and son. She lived those years away from her husband in agony until the clan returned her child and permitted her to reunite with her husband. Marriage Hazrat Abu Salamahra had partaken in the Battle of Uhud and was severely wounded. Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra recounts the demise of her husband in his book, The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets, on page 360 of the second volume: “… in Muharram 4 AH, the Holy Prophetsa suddenly received news in Medina that Tulaihah bin Khuwailid, chief of the Asad tribe and his brother, Salamah bin Khuwailid were inciting the people of their region to wage war against the Holy Prophetsa. As soon as this news was received, the Holy Prophetsa, who, under the circumstances of his

own country, understood the dangers of such news, immediately assembled a fast riding detachment of 150 companions and appointed Abu Salamah bin Abdul Asadra as their amir. The Holy Prophetsa emphatically instructed that they should march towards the enemy and cause them to disperse before the Banu Asad were able to practically execute their hostile motives. As such, Abu Salamahra advanced swiftly, yet silently and caught Banu Asad at a place called Qutn, situated in central Arabia, but no fighting took place. As a matter of fact, the people of Banu Asad dispersed as soon as they caught sight of the Muslims. “After an absence of a few days, Abu Salamahra returned to Medina. Due to the strenuous labour of this journey, the injury sustained by Abu Salamahra at Uhud, which had apparently healed until then, began to deteriorate again. Despite medical treatment, the wound continued to worsen, and ultimately, in this very illness, a faithful and pioneer companion of the Holy Prophetsa, who was also the foster brother of the Holy Prophetsa, passed away.”

Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra was griefstricken at the demise of her beloved husband. Together, they had faced severe oppositions at the hands of the adversaries of Islam and had been through thick and thin to preserve their religion. After her iddah i.e., when the time period prescribed by Islam for a widow or divorced woman which must elapse before she can remarry, had passed, she was approached by Hazrat Abu Bakrra with the proposal to marry. However, she rejected the proposal. Then, the Holy Prophetsa, on account of her many distinctive traits, which were befitting for a law-bearing prophet and the fact that she was the family of his foster brother, sent a marriage proposal to her. At first, she was reluctant in view of her children and her jealous disposition. The Holy Prophetsa told her that that he would pray for her latter concern and as for the former, he would treat them as his own. She ultimately accepted and her son acted as a guardian and married her to the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra narrates: “When Abu Salamahra died, I went to the Messengersa of Allah and said, ‘Messenger of Allah, Abu Salamahra has died.’ The Holy Prophetsa told me to recite, ‘O Allah! Forgive me and him (Abu Salamahra) and give me a better substitute than him.’ So, I recited and Allah gave me in exchange [Hazrat] Muhammadsa, who is better for me than Abu Salamahra.” Thirst for knowledge Hardline mullahs and extremists opine that it is unlawful for women to leave her house and strive for knowledge. Conversely, the Holy Prophetsa was clear in his instructions for both men and women to attain education. Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra knew how to read and played a significant role in educating and training the Muslim women. Many narrations and ahadith are related by her in the books of Hadith and in this respect, she stands second among the wives of the Holy Prophetsa and twelfth among all the companions in total (including both men and women). (The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets, Vol. 2, p.389) She would never shy away from posing

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Jalsa SiratunHazrat Umm-e-Salamahra knew how to read and played a significant role in educating and training the Muslim women. Nabi in Many narrations and ahadith are related by her in the books Brussels of Hadith and in this respect, she stands second among the wives of the Holy Prophetsa and twelfth among all the 10 November, 2019, the three companions in total (including both men and women). of Brussels, Dilbeek, Baitul OnMajalis Muhammad Arsalan Belgium Correspondent

questions before the Holy Prophetsa to quench the thirst of her inquisitive nature. Once, she asked the Prophetsa of Islam as to why the Holy Quran does not mention women as it did men. It was owing to her question that later, one afternoon, she heard the Holy Prophetsa reciting the following verses: “Surely, men who submit themselves [to God] and women who submit themselves [to Him], and believing men and believing women, and obedient men and obedient women and truthful men and truthful women, and men steadfast [in their faith] and steadfast women, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their chastity and women who guard [their chastity], and men who remember Allah much and women who remember [Him] — Allah has prepared for [all of] them forgiveness and a great reward. (Surah al-Ahzab, Ch.33: V.36) Wise disposition She was extremely intelligent and sharp. Her insightful disposition had helped the Holy Prophetsa and his companions on

various occasions. At Hudaybiyyah, the Holy Prophetsa instructed his companions to slaughter animals. However, not out of (God-forbid) disobedience, but because they were traumatised and extremely shocked at the terms of the treaty, they felt completely paralysed and did not move. When the Prophetsa disclosed his predicament to his wife Hazrat Umm-eSalamahra who had accompanied him to the journey, she lovingly replied to him: “O Messenger of Allahsa! If you wish for this to be carried out, then my suggestion is that [you say nothing to them], rather go out and slaughter your animal and shave your head. Your companions shall automatically follow your lead.” The Holy Prophetsa went out and without conversing with anyone, acted on the advice. Seeing this, the Companions rushed to follow in his footsteps in a frenzy as if woken up from a slumber. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2731 and 2732) Even after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa, his companions and Khulafa would consult her for advice and guidance. Sahih Muslim mentions a hadith in which Hazrat Ibn Abbasra sent his freed slave Kuraib to Hazrat Aishara to enquire about the matter of offering two rak‘at after Asr

prayers. Hazrat Aishara referred him to Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra who clarified to him that it was forbidden. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 834) A noble woman in the eyes of her husband She lived a long life and passed away in the era of Yazid bin Muawiyyah at the age of 84. She was alive at the time of Hazrat Hussain’sra martyrdom. Her home was an abode of comfort and blessing for the Holy Prophetsa and angels would descend at her house. It is narrated by Hazrat Umar bin Abi Salamahra that when the verses of purification (“Surely Allah desires to remove from you [all] uncleanness, O Members of the Household, and purify you completely”) were revealed at the house of Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra, the Holy Prophetsa gathered Hazrat Alira, Fatimara, Hassanra and Hussainra under a cloak and prayed to God to purify them. Hazrat Umm-e-Salamahra enquired of her husband if she was part of his household as well. To this the Holy Prophetsa replied: “You [as a wife] already have your own status and you are a lady of noble traits.” (Tirmidhi, Book 49, Hadith 4156)

Jalsa Siratun-Nabi, Indonesia Haﬁzur Rehman Indonesia Correspondent

n Saturday evening (16 November O 2019) approximately 300 Ahmadis in Kemang, Indonesia gathered together to

attend Jalsa Siratun-Nabi in Nasr Mosque. The local Sadr led the programme and it began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and a poem. As its name suggests, this Jalsa focused on the blessed life and character of our beloved Prophet, Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Imam Ridwan Buton, Lecturer at Jamia Ahmadiyya delivered a beautiful speech regarding how the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, loved his Mastersa so deeply that it was described in his very beautiful and heartfelt poems. Some external guests also participated and listened very attentively to the speeches. The guests who came were Mr Ahmad Yani,

a professor in Darul Ulum Islamic Boarding School; Mr Ahmad Samanto, an academic and Mr Rizal Aris, local branch general secretary of Nadhlatul Ulama in Tajur Halang. They expressed their high appreciation

to the Ahmadiyya Jamaat for inviting and treating them well and said that Ahmadis had exemplified the beauty of the Prophet Muhammad’ssa personalities and traits.

Mujeeb and Brussels East held a SiratunNabi Jalsa for Lajna Imailah. This time, the Jalsa was interactive in order to attract more people. National Sadr Lajna Imaillah Belgium was requested to preside over the programme. The programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by a hadith and then some extracts from the Promised Messiah’sas writings. Speeches were also delivered in various languages. The first speech was delivered in French on the exemplary compassion of the Holy Prophetsa. The next speech was delivered in Urdu on the same topic. Then, a speech in Dutch was delivered on the topic of the Imam Mahdi’sas love for the Holy Prophetsa. Following this was the interactive competitions. National Sadr Sahiba then distributed prizes to the participants of competitions. Alhamdolillah, the programme saw an attendance of 18 Lajna and 4 Nasirat members from Dilbeek; 30 Lajna from Brussels East and 28 Lajna from the Baitul Mujeeb area.

National Tournament Lajna Imaillah Belgium 2019 Lajna Imaillah Belgium organised their first ever volleyball & badminton tournament on 9 November in Hasselt. Preparations and booking were made well before for this tournament. One week before the tournament, rules & regulations were sent to all respected Majalis. Regular training was organised for this tournament. In this tournament, three teams participated from the regions of Brabant, Limburg and Antwerpen. Each team played matches of 25 points in volleyball. Team Brabant and Limburg played the final match. For badminton, two players played from each region and the top two played in the final. The programme started at 1pm in the hall with the recitation of tilawat followed by the National Anthem, speech and silent prayer. The Brabant and Limburg regions made it to the final with Brabant being hailed as the victors. In the closing session, national Sadr Sahiba distributed trophies and a shield to the regional sadrs and medals to the winning team.

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Means of attaining nearness to Allah Part I

1. Basic requirement of nearness to Allah – Love for the Holy Prophetsa With regard to qurb-e-Ilahi, the high rank and station granted by Allah to the Promised Messiahas during these latter days is unique and unparalleled. He explained that he was granted this closeness because of following Hazrat Khatamun-Nabiyyin Muhammad Mustafa, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and due to his love for him. He narrated a vision he had during his early days: “I saw in a dream that the people were searching for a reviver. A man appeared before my humble self and, pointing towards me, said: َ َ ُ ُّ ٌ ّٰ َ ‫ھذا َر ُجل ی ِح ّب َر ُسول الل ِہ‬ meaning, ‘This is the man who loves the Messenger of Allah.’” He added, “The meaning of this statement was that the principal qualification for this mission is the love of the Holy Prophetsa, and this quality was definitely found in me.” (Barahin-eAhmadiyya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 1, p. 598; English Translation [2016] Part IV, p. 379) The whole of his life bears testimony to the high station and rank of nearness to Allah granted to him by Allah. Describing the state of this nearness, he submits to Allah: “They call me a kafir (disbeliever) but can I find someone dearer than You for whom I may desert You. However, I see that when people are oblivious of their surrounds, when my friends and foes are unaware of my condition, You wake me up and tell me most lovingly: do not grieve! I am with you! Then, O my Lord, how is it possible that, notwithstanding this benevolence, I desert You. Never! Never!” (Badr, 11 January 1912, p. 6) What a lofty status that was granted to him as a result of his love for the Messengersa of Allah! ‫اے ٓازامےن واےل �ی ہخسن یھب ٓازام‬ “O ye who are trying, pray try this formula, too.”

Ataul Mujeeb Rashed Missionary-in-Charge UK

َ ّ َ َ ۡ َ َ ََ َ َ َ ‫ِی ع ِّن ۡی فاِنِ ۡی ق ِریۡ ٌب‬ ‫و اِذا سالک ِعباد‬ “And when My servants ask thee about Me, say: ‘I am near.’” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.187) This topic is an enormous ocean of knowledge and wisdom. An utmost certainty in the existence and unity of God is the central point in the life of a believer and love of God is his spiritual food, without which one cannot conceive of real life. Just as the Being of God is limitless, the pathways to His love and nearness are innumerable. How aptly has the Promised Messiahas put it: ‫ےہ بجع ولجہ رتی دقرت اک پ ی�ارے رہ رطف‬ ‫�یک‬ ‫سج رطف د ھ�یں ویہ رہ ےہ رتےد�ی دار اک‬

“What show of Thy splendour is all around, My Dear; Wherever we look, that way leads to Thy View.” Various means of attaining nearness to

Allah The essence of God is limitless, and His attributes are uncountable. Likewise, the ways and means to nearness of Allah are so multifarious and vast that it is not possible to cover them in a short time. These matters are mentioned frequently in the Holy Quran, Hadith and writings of the Promised Messiahas and his Khalifas. I present to you a few droplets from this vast ocean of knowledge. The Promised Messiahas on attaining nearness to Allah The Imam of the Age, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas has elaborated on the fundamental and incomprehensible subject of attaining God’s nearness and thereby highlighted its importance. I present here a few of his insightful writings. “Allah, the Almighty cannot be deceived. He favours with closeness only those who are innately disposed to swimming in the river of His love like fish

are entirely dedicated to Him and lost in His love.” (Sat Bachan, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p. 158) “All comfort of man lies in the nearness and love of Allah the Almighty.” (Lecture Lahore, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p. 158)’ “The important matter that is achieved by prayer is qurb-e-Ilahi [nearness to Allah.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 45, [2003] Rabwah) “Divine help and support are major signs of one who is close to Allah, the Exalted”. (Malfuzat, Vol. 4, p. 106, [2003] Rabwah) “Man’s honour lies in qurb-e-Ilahi [nearness to Allah] only and that indeed is the greatest fortune and blessing.” (ibid) What is qurb-e-Ilahi? It is the real and eternal life. The Promised Messiahas says: ‫زدنہ ویہ ہ ی� وج ہک دخا ےک ی ب‬ �‫رق� ہ ی‬ � ‫ہ‬ �‫وح ی‬ ‫وبقمل نب ےک اس ےک زع�ی ز ب ی ب‬ “Only they are alive who are close to God; Being accepted, they are His dear and loved ones.”

2. Obedience to the Messengersa of Allah We see the pinnacle of nearness to Allah in the life of the Holy Prophetsa. During the Battle of Badr, he threw a fistful of stones towards the enemies. Allah attributed the action to Himself saying: ۡ ّٰ َ ‫َو َما َر َم ۡی َت ِاذ َر َم ۡی َت َو لٰ ِک ّن الل َہ َر ٰمی‬ “And thou threwest not when thou didst throw, but it was Allah Who threw.” (Surah al-Anfal, Ch.8: V.18) Again, on the occasion of Bai‘at-e-Rizwan, when he put his hand over the hands of the Companions, Allah attributed the action to Himself saying: َ َ َ ّٰ ‫یَ ُد الل ِہ فوۡق ایۡ ِدیۡ ِہ ۡم‬ “The hand of Allah is over their hands.” (Surah al-Fath, Ch.48: V.11) An absolute and definite means of nearness to Allah is to follow the holy personage who got nearest to Allah and who loved Him the most. Allah established him to be the excellent model worthy of being followed by the whole world and told him to declare to all the ardent lovers desirous of nearness to Allah:

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM َّ َ ّٰ ُ ُۡ ّٰ ُ ‫ِا ۡن کن ُت ۡم ت ِح ُّبوۡ َن الل َہ فات ِب ُعوۡنِ ۡی یُ ۡح ِب ۡبک ُم الل ُہ‬ “If you love Allah, follow me: [then] will Allah love you …” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.32) That is, “If you are earnest in your claim of love for Allah, prove it by following me and tread the path that has led me to this fortune. I assure you, by Allah’s command, that my beloved God will start loving you and by virtue of following my footsteps you too will be enriched with His nearness.” The devoted Companionsra of the Holy Prophetsa responded positively to these glad tidings by following him fervently, being at his beck and call in an unprecedented manner. Once, the Messenger of Allahsa called on his Companionsra to make financial sacrifices. One of them came up with half of his belongings, while the other presented all that he had. Before alcohol was banned, a drinking party was in full swing. It was heard that the Holy Prophetsa had declared it Haram [forbidden]. One of them suggested that they should confirm if that indeed was the case. The other got up and smashed the wine pots into pieces and the wine began flowing into the streets. On one occasion, some people were standing in the mosque. The Messengersa of Allah told them to sit down. One of the Companionsra heard this instruction while he was outside the mosque and sat down there and then, crawling to the mosque. Someone told him that he was not the one being addressed. He replied, “As I have heard the command, it is for me to obey.” These embodiments of obedience – the Companionsra – attained the spiritual high grounds through obedience to the Messengersa of Allah. They gained such nearness to Allah that He gave them the glad tidings during theirَ lifetime: ْ ُ ْ ّ ‫َر ِضيَ الل ُه َعن ُه ْم َو َرضوا َعن ُه‬ “Allah is well pleased with them and they are well pleased with Him.” (Sural alFath, Ch.48: V.9) Remember, this gateway of obedience to Allah is still open. The Divine promise is still there for every seeker of Allah’s nearness. During this age, the Promised

Messiahas achieved nearness to Allah following the same route and the grand titles of “Promised Messiah” and “Imam Mahdi” were bestowed to him. He says: ‫بس مہ ےن اُس ےس اپ ی�ا اشدہ ےہ وت دخا ی�ا‬ ‫ی‬ ‫ وہ ہم اقل ہ� ےہ‬،‫وہ سج ےن قح داھک ی�ا‬ “We gained it all from him. Thou art a Witness, O Lord; The one who showed us the truth, he is the handsome one.” He enjoyed the sweet reward of nearness to Allah by following the Messengersa of Allah and then following the ways and example set by him, many members of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat continue to gain closeness to Allah, by the grace of Allah. ‫ٓأو تولوگ ہک ی ہ ی‬ ‫� ون ِر دخا اپٔو ےگ‬ ‫�م‬ ‫ول ہ��یں وطر یلست اک اتب ی�ا مہ ےن‬ “Come, O people! ‘Tis here that you shall find the light of God; Behold! We have shown you the way to satisfy yourself.” 3. Pondering over the attributes of Allah One of the means of achieving God’s nearness is to ponder over the attributes of Allah; not merely uttering those attributes, but pondering over them profoundly. Pondering over the attributes of Allah as they operate in the real world and

observing their impact on one’s practical life leads to utmost certainty that enriches the seeker with nearness to Allah. 4. Zikr-e-Ilahi (Remembrance of Allah) – A sure means of God’s nearness The first and foremost requirement to attain nearness to Allah and His love is to acquire proper cognition about Him. Cognition of something is achieved by proper understanding of its beauty and benevolence. To acquire that, it is essential to recite the attributes of Allah repeatedly and keep oneself occupied with Zikr-eIlahi. Allah says: ُۡ َ ُ َُۡ ‫فاذک ُر ۡونِ ۡۤی اذک ۡرک ۡم‬ “Therefore remember Me, and I will remember you.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.153) O ye seekers of God’s nearness, “Keep remembering Me and I will remember you and will bless you with My nearness generously.” Zikr-e-Ilahi is a sure means of His nearness. In the Holy Quran, Allah, the Almighty has described the believers as: ُۡ َّ ُ َ َُ ّٰ ‫ال ِذیۡ َن یَذک ُر ۡو َن الل َہ قِ ٰی ًما ّو ق ُعوۡ ًدا ّو َع ٰلی ُجنوۡ ِب ِہ ۡم‬ “Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting and [lying] on their sides.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.192) ُ ُ َ ۡ َ ۤ َ َ ۡ ُ ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ َ ۡ ُ َ ٰ َ ۡ َّ َ ُّ َ ٰ ّٰ ۡ ‫یایہاال ِذین امنوالاتل ِہکم اموالکم و لا اول‬ ‫ادک ۡم َع ۡن ِذک ِر الل ِہ‬ “O ye who believe! Let not your wealth and your children divert you from the remembrance of Allah” (Surah al-Munafiqun, Ch.63: V.10) as a person negligent of Zikr-e-Ilahi certainly fails to get the blessing of God’s nearness. Talking of the importance and necessity of Zikr, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra says: ‫ن‬ ‫اعدت ذرک یھب ڈاول ہک �ی نکمم یہ ہ ی‬ ِ � ‫ی‬ ‫دل م وہ قشعِ منص بل ہپ رگم انم ہن وہ‬ “Make remembrance a habit, as it is not possible to have love in your heart and not mention the name of the beloved.” Pleasant reward of Zikr-e-Ilahi and Durood Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasul Rajekira, a devout companion of the Promised Messiahas, had a special position in the fields of qurb-e-Ilahi [Allah’s nearness] and sufism. How did he achieve that?

He, once, mentioned one of the means as follows: “During one sitting with members of the Jamaat, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra instructed the youth that after the obligatory part of every Salat, they should repeat: ّٰ ّٰ ‫ سبحان اللہ العظیم‬،‫سبحان اللہ وبحمدہ‬ and Durood [specific wording invoking salutations upon the Prophetsa] 12 times respectively. I started acting on this advice regularly from that very day. I benefited greatly from this practice. With purification of my heart and illumination of my soul, I started having a strange type of spiritual awareness. Just as the eyes perceive the light of sun and moon, my heart is frequently illumined at times like a lightbulb and at times, like a gas lamp during prayers and at times, I feel that from head to toe, my body has become internally luminous. (Hayat-e-Qudsi, Part V, p. 129) It is a spiritual experience, witnessed by many. 5. Prayer for attaining God’s nearness Striving persistently and making diligent efforts is required to attain God’s nearness. The truth is that it is not possible to reach God without His help. The routes to Him are unlimited. Without the helping hand of God, it is not possible to achieve this goal. The Promised Messiahas has stated that prayer is the means for this. He says: ‫ی ہ� ب ی‬ ‫دت�ر ےہ پ ی�ارو ہک اموگن اُس ےس رقتب وک‬

‫اُیس ےک اہھت وک ڈوھڈنو الجٔو بس دنمکوں وک‬ “‘Tis the only way, my dear, that you ask Him for nearness; Seek His Hand only and burn all other means.” 6. Means of attaining God’s nearness – The Holy Quran One of the tested and verified means for attaining God’s nearness is the Holy Quran. This holy book comprises of the word of God from beginning to end. It has such purifying effects that guide the seeker to the Divine Court. Whoever receives the blessings of this book of guidance is enriched with the bounty of His nearness. The beneficence of the Holy Quran is ongoing and continuing and is the foremost, tried and tested means of

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

“On the Day of Judgement, the first thing one will be called to account for will be Salat. If there is any shortfall in such a person’s obligatory prayers, Allah will say, ‘My servant has some nawafil in his account.’ If there are nawafil, the shortfall in obligatory prayers will be made up with nawafil. (Tirmidhi, Kitabul-Salat) A sure means of attaining His nearness has been outlined in a noble Hadith. Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsa said: “Allah the Almighty says ... ‘My servant can be close to Me through the things that I love and that I made obligatory upon him. By offering nawafil, My servant gets so close to Me that I start loving him. When I make him a friend of Mine, I become the ears with which he hears, the eyes with which he sees, the hands with which he holds and the feet with which he walks. Thus, I fulfil all that he desires. If he begs of Me, I provide for him; if he seeks My protection, I grant him protection. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabul Riqaq, Bab-ulTawazu)

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getting closer to Allah. The Promised Messiahas says: “Hundreds of thousands of holy ones testify that by following the Holy Quran … a wonderful relationship is established with the Divine … and a delicious love of God, which is nurtured by the delight of meeting is generated in their hearts”. (Surma Chashm-e-Arya, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 2, p. 31) He further says: “The ways of true and perfect salvation have been opened by the Quran and all else is its reflection. Therefore, study the Quran with deep contemplation and hold it very deer. Love it more than anything else”. (Kishti-e-Nuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 26) The Promised Messiahas once received a revelation: ُّ ُّ ْ َ ْ َ ُْ ‫الخی ُر کل ُہ فِي الق ْرٓان‬ “All good is contained in the Quran.” Recitation of this holy book every morning illumines the human mind. The Holy Quran is the modus operandi for a believer, without which it is not possible to attain the nearness of Allah. We must remember the following advice of the Promised Messiahas: “You should not abandon the Holy Quran like a thing forsaken, for therein lies your life. Those who honour the Quran will be honoured in heaven”. (Kishti-eNuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 13) 7. Supplicating for God’s nearness Supplicating for love of Allah is a very important and basic means of attaining His nearness. Prayer is the basis on which depends the success of all other means. A believer must adopt the style of

prayers adopted by our beloved Master, the Messengersa of Allah. According to a hadith, he used to pray as follows: َ َ َ َ َ َ ُ ‫ َو ُح ّب َما یُق ّ ِر ب ُ ِنی‬،‫ َو ُح ّب َمن ا َح ّبک‬،‫اللهم ارز ِقني حبك‬ َ َ َّ ّ ‫إلي من الماء البارد‬ ‫ َواجعل حبك أحب‬،‫اِلیک‬ “O God! Grant me your love, and the love of those who love you, and the deeds and high morals and sacrifices and virtues that create your love and take me nearer to you, Oh God! Make your love dearer to me than the love of cold water during a very hot summer. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra states that this is how the Messengersa of Allah used to supplicate. Perseverance in this produces love of Allah in one’s heart and leads to God’s nearness. (Ta‘alluq Billah; Vol. 23, pp. 218-219) 8. Basic means of God’s nearness – Five daily prayers, Tahajud and nawafil Divine worship, according to the commandments of Allah and His Messengersa, are the sure means of attaining His nearness. At the top of the list are the five daily prayers, which must be offered regularly and consistently. The Messengersa of Allah said: ٰ ‫الصلوۃ‬ ‫قرۃ عینی فی‬ “The delight of my eyes is in Salat.” Again, he also said: ٰ ‫الصلوۃ عمادالدین‬ “Salat is the pillar of Islam.” He also stated that on the Day of Judgement, the first thing we will be called to account for is Salat. The Promised Messiahas has also emphasised: “Whosoever does not observe the five daily prayers is not of my community.” (Kishti-e-Nuh, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 19, p. 19)

About Salat and God’s nearness, he stated, “As a means for attaning Allah’s nearness, there is nothing superior to Salat as it is the key to being closer to Him.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, pp. 347-348) He further stated, “One can never attain His nearness unless one observes Salat.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p. 346) Our beloved Master, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has instructed us, from the very first day of his Khilafat, to observe Salat; he has done it so many times that it is not possible to count. Here, I present one of his directives: “Every person who desires to become a worshipper of Allah, attain His nearness, keep himself and his progeny clean and save himself from the intrigues of Satan has only one way, i.e. to focus on worship. And most essential for that is observing congregational prayers.” (Khutabat-eMasroor, Vol. 1, p. 24) In addition to the observation of five daily prayers, Tahajud prayer is also necessary in the quest for attaining His nearness. Tahajud prayer has extraordinary importance in the spiritual journey to nearness to Allah. In the Holy Quran, Allah says: “O Ye who believe! Offer Tahajud prayer in the latter part of the night. It may be that your Lord will raise you to an exalted station.” (Surah Bani Israil, Ch.17: V.80) The next stage in this journey are the voluntary nawafil. The importance of nawafil becomes obvious in light of a saying of the Holy Prophetsa that for the seeker of God’s nearness, nawafil facilitate arriving at the journey’s end. The English rendering of the Hadith is as follows:

9. Conditions of Bai‘at I submit that the ten conditions of Bai‘at laid down by the Promised Messiahas are in fact ten flights of stairs leading towards God. Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa started a series of Friday Sermons with reference to these conditions of Bai‘at from the very beginning of his Khilafat. These have been published in book form. These sermons form the permanent modus operandi for an Ahmadi. This inspiring book (Conditions of Bai‘at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi) guides towards the means of adopting Allah’s nearness, awakens the neglectful, makes an Ahmadi a true and active Muslim and facilitates the stages of God’s nearness. As a reminder of the ten conditions of Bai‘at, this book is incomparable and should be studied all the time. 10. Various means of God’s nearness The study of the Promised Messiah’sas books and writings is a certain and sure means of attaining Allah’s nearness. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra has made an insightful point that angels descend on readers of those books that are authored by one on whom angels used to descend. This way, they are blessed with God’s nearness. Another means of gaining the nearness of Allah is by visiting the holy places that were once resided by holy and noble servants of God, which include Mecca, Medina, Qadian, Rabwah and every place resided by a Divinely appointed prophet and khalifa. This also includes Islamabad (England) which has become the new centre for the worldwide Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam. Visiting these places and supplicating there humbly and invoking Allah’s blessings on the Holy Prophetsa repeatedly, illumines one’s heart and produces such a spiritual condition that leads to Allah the Almighty. (The second and last part of the article will follow in the next issue Insha-Allah)

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM 100 Years Ago...

Devising new ways of tabligh in London Al Fazl, 27 November 1919

Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

Meetings The angels of Allah the Almighty stimulate the hearts of virtuous souls in various ways to persuade them into accepting the truth of the Promised Messiahas. Every week, fresh minds regularly visit the residence of Ahmadiyya missionaries in search of finding the truth. In the current week, a highly qualified atheist doctor and an English officer of high class, who had recently returned from Iraq, were among those who came to find the truth. Mufti Sahib conveyed the message of Ahmadiyyat to both of them in very fine words and a highly convincing manner. Each of the two experienced a transformation and returned with satisfaction of heart. Apart from them, new convert ladies and gentlemen and a large number of non-Ahmadi English and Indian folks came to visit missionaries of Ahmadiyyat for sharing their views and to enhance their knowledge. Sunday’s lecture Even though the sky of London was covered with mist and fog, and the darkness in the day time was such that it was difficult to spot a nearby person, but still the name of the orator and the subject of Sunday’s lecture proved so captivating that the Ahmadiyya lecture room was filled to its brim with representatives from the east and west. The audience, comprising of representatives from Arabia, Somaliland, Yemen, Italy, England and Wales, were present in large numbers like the general gatherings of London. The dars [sermon] of the Holy Quran was delivered by Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayal Sahib, then I introduced brother Faith to the audience. After the recitation of the Holy Quran by Mrs Fatima Catherine, brother Faith began his lecture. Fatima and Muhammad Suleiman Insha-Allah, this Jalsa will serve as a new chapter in the history of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and prove to be the harbinger of a new approach towards tabligh and advancement, as it was the very first time that the Western representatives took to the stage in the Ahmadiyya Hall to convey the message of Ahmad’sas faith in their native language. The “bird” with firm faith in the Messiah of God who was appointed to recite the Holy Quran was a young, intelligent and noble new convert English lady carrying the name of Fatima Catherine. She has written to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, “The moral condition of Muslims has been spoiled as well. Therefore, God sent Ahmadas Nabiyullah

[Prophet of Allah] and the true Islam reached us.” This lady recited the chapter of “Ummul-Kitab” [Surah al-Fatiha] from the book of Allah in her own unique style. After the recitation of the Holy Quran, a gentleman who has only been a Muslim for 33 days and knows Hebrew, German, Latin, Finnish, [Russian], Flemish and Yiddish languages, wearing a turban on his head, our new brother, Muhammad Suleiman Faith stood up. He demonstrated before the audience through his actions that Ahmadiyyat, under the skies of England, is a “fountain of life” and not a “deadly poison.” Subject of the lecture Brother Muhammad Suleiman explained at the outset that the purpose of religion is to attain nearness to Allah the Almighty. This closeness is achieved through prophets by acting upon their teachings. The name of the path which leads to this nearness is Islam. Islam is the same religion that was brought by every prophet from Adamas to Ahmadas Nabiyullah. Jews rejected Jesusas and they lost the nearness of God. The Christians did not accept Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and they deprived themselves from the blessing of nearness of God. Muslims [of today] cannot attain the nearness of God until they accept Ahmadas Nabiyullah. Thereafter, brother Faith narrated his life accounts and the instances of bearing hardships for the sake of religion. He highlighted the state of attaining the last satisfaction in his research of religion through the path disclosed by Allah the Almighty upon him in a divine vision. He explained to the audience the way in which he grabbed hold of “hablullah” [the rope of Allah] the Holy Quran by placing his hands in the hands of the second Khalifa. Following brother Faith, Hazrat Mufti Sahib delivered a very apt and extremely fine lecture. He presented a comparison of Islam and Christianity, and narrated some incidents which shed light on the achievement of God’s nearness through the Promised Messiahas. The audience included Shamsul-ulema [the sun of scholars] Maulana Kamaluddin Sahib MA who was especially in a state of delight at the time of his return. Miscellaneous Revered Brother Sagar Chand Sahib (barrister at law) is engaged in tabligh at Hastings. He requested for more literature to distribute over there. His lectures are being arranged there. Chaudhry Sahib will deliver a lecture on the subject of “Why are prophets sent?” at Société [Internationale] de Philologie on 31

October. There is always some literature in the pocket of Mufti Sahib and he hands over Ahmadiyya pamphlets to the passing ladies and gentlemen with great proficiency. This week, he happened to attend a lecture and taking full advantage of the opportunity, he distributed a lot of literature at the door of the hall. Brother Qazi [Abdullah] Sahib has left for meeting recent Muslims and to promulgate the true message in Broxton and Portsmouth. By the blessings of Allah the Almighty, I am able to successfully fulfil my assigned duties through writings and speeches. Being the secretary, the entire correspondence has to be carried out by me. I request members of the Jamaat to pray for me. Green turban On returning from Hindustan, the green turban is a source of introduction to the English people and most of the times, it provides a means for tabligh. Two recent incidents will surely be read with interest. Kensington Park is located near our house. I go there quite often in the mornings. An Englishman started talking in the Hindustani language. When the opportunity presented itself, I began to deliver a talk. A large crowd gathered and I had the opportunity to convey the message to a large audience, Alhamdolillah.

A passerby asked, “Can you predict fate?” I considered the opportunity to be a blessing and instead of predicting fate, I started to highlight the teaching for “making [one’s own] destiny.” These are two examples which demonstrate that the green turban provides opportunities for tabligh. Future plans Pretty soon, we will start a series of lectures at Hyde Park along with brother Muhammad Suleiman Faith, Insha-Allah. A plate board is present with “Ahmadia Movement” written on it. A missionary will carry out a tour of Belgium and Germany with the start of more pleasant weather and brother Faith will accompany him as the interpreter, Insha-Allah. We are devising a plan to convey the true message to the outskirts of London, i.e. the villages and the towns. Brother Bashir Koreo, Brother Saeed Wilson and Brother Muhammad Yunus […] will carry out lectures in the future. A suggestion of an Ahmadiyya Conference and Ahmadiyya newspaper is under consideration. These works are under deliberation. Your [the members of Jamaat] work is to assist Nazarat Talif-o-Ishaat [central publications and propagations directorate] and make it successful. May Allah grant you and us the strength to do so. Amin.

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Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

Friday Sermon European Tour 2019: A Review 1 November 2019 After reciting the Tashahud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:

ecently, I toured some of the European countries and two of those countries, Holland and France, also held their Jalsa Salanas [annual conventions]. Moreover, inaugurations of mosques and other events with non-Ahmadis also took place. There was an event at UNESCO Headquarters in France, which was held with the permission and invitation of their administration. In that event, I had the opportunity to explain the Islamic teachings and to highlight the role of Muslims in the advancement of knowledge and science. UNESCO is an agency of the UN, which has been established for the promotion of education, science and culture. Freedom of the press, eradication of poverty and the conservation of world heritage etc. are also among its objectives. I informed them of the teachings of Islam, the services of the earlier Muslims and their contribution and the role of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community with regards to these objectives. Likewise, [I presented] the Islamic teachings before politicians and intellectuals in Berlin, which is the capital city of Germany. I discoursed in view of the notion that exists in the minds of Europeans and is especially prevalent in Germany and other European countries, that Islam is not compatible with the culture and civilisation of Europe and Islam should therefore not come and is a danger to Europe. Some prominent intellectuals, politicians and diplomats were also present there. This had a very positive impact on them which they later expressed. Likewise, Allah the Almighty granted the opportunity to introduce Islam and its teachings in other events. Alhamdolillah [all praise be to Allah] that we were able to witness the blessings of Allah the Almighty everywhere. Now, I will briefly mention some impressions of the guests who participated in the various events, which demonstrates how these people were able to understand the true teachings of Islam, thereby removing their misconceptions.

In Holland, I also had the opportunity to address the Dutch guests on the second day of the Jalsa. 125 non-Muslim Dutch guests participated in that event. A councillor from Nunspeet, where our centre is currently located, while giving his impressions, stated: “A long time ago, I was not too keen to visit here”, i.e. having a relationship with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. “However, with the passage of time, our relations improved.” When I arrived there, he was also present to welcome me. He further states, “I have listened to the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community before and wanted to listen to him again. I am very impressed by everything he has said because it seems that it has developed a deeper relationship between us. You”, i.e. the Ahmadiyya Community there), “are an active part of the society. Attending this Jalsa has further strengthened that relationship.” Herman Meet Sahib, a guest who attended from the city of Rotterdam said: “I was very anxious prior to coming to the Jalsa thinking that Muslims are going to

gather at this convention and who knows what may happen! However, upon arriving here, I was greatly surprised that people were simply discussing peace. What I liked most about His Holiness’ address was that he spoke with great courage.” He further stated to his Ahmadi friend, “The pope speaks of peace in general terms but your Khalifa has directly and openly addressed the powerful nations.” Then, there was a Dutch couple who participated in this event. They said: “The atmosphere of the Jalsa was

incredible. Everyone was showing kindness and it appeared to be a heavenly atmosphere.” In relation to my address they said, “The address has had a great impact on us and we were also impressed by the translators, who were simultaneously translating in an excellent manner.” This depends on the translator and standard of their translation. Hence, our department for translation should make efforts in this regard; MTA is already doing so; but other countries should also ensure that the translation in their functions and Jalsas is accurate. Another guest, Dini Harkin Sahib, participated in the event. He says: “I have an academic background. Four years ago, I started teaching Dutch in a Dutch institute. There, I met a Pakistani family who used to come to learn the language. Our relationship strengthened and I reassured him that I would assist them in every manner. Their children would also meet me. They would spend some time with me every week and I also gained some knowledge about the Jamaat through these children.” Following this, he says, “I have now come here and I am feeling very happy. Your Khalifa speaks about peace and mutual harmony.” He further says, “I am a Christian myself and I am able to observe that your Jamaat does not only treat Ahmadis kindly, but in fact treats the adherents of all religions with kindness. Hearing such matters from a Muslim leader in particular has greatly impacted

“I am a Christian myself and I am able to observe that your Jamaat does not only treat Ahmadis kindly, but in fact treats the adherents of all religions with kindness.”

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM me because there are many misconceptions regarding Islam these days.” He further says, “His Holiness mentioned the turmoil that has spread across the world and also emphasised the need to establish peace. We live together on the earth and we should collectively strive to establish peace.” Then, there was the inauguration of the mosque which was constructed in the city of Almere in Holland, which is the second purpose-built mosque of the Jamaat. The chairman of the church in Almere, Haiyo Witzel Sahib was in attendance. He says: “The message of your Jamaat is a message of peace. Your Khalifa delivered an excellent speech on peace and religious freedom. Previously, Catholics and Protestants lived peacefully in Almere. We now hope that Ahmadis will also live peacefully with us.” As a representative of the church, he mentioned this, but in fact, the general impression of the people there is that by the grace of Allah the Almighty, all of the Ahmadis that live there, live in cohesion and are very peaceful. An Arab guest, Zakariya Sahib, was in attendance. He says: “I really enjoyed the event. I listened to the address of your Khalifa and if we desire to establish peace, then we should act in accordance with his address.” He further says, “As an Arab, I would also like to say that the Holy Quran was recited at the start of your event, which I really liked because

“It is highly unfortunate that the world is not shown this image of Islam. The members of your Jamaat are very hardworking and hospitable. I have seen this mosque for the first time today, however I wish to come here in the future again as I have found peace in your mosque.” There are countless impressions of similar nature, however I have only mentioned a few. Following this was the tour of France. The Jalsa was also held there and a similar sitting with non-Ahmadi and non-Muslim guests was organised and approximately seventy-five guests attended. One of the guests was a lady, who is an anthropologist by profession. She says: “When the Khalifa said that he condemned the various attacks that took place in France, he made it clear that Islam has no link with such attacks.” She further says, “From the true image of Islam as presented by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat, it appears that Muslims can easily integrate into the Western world.” She further said, “It is incorrect when people say that Islam does not have a place in the Western world and that Muslims cannot live in cohesion here. Such people should have listened to today’s speech.” Then, there was a non-Ahmadi guest, Murtaza Sahib, from Iran. He says: “Today, I became aware of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and the status of

“I listened to the speech of your Khalifa and it was very good. Excellent arrangements had been made for the women as well. I have attended for the first time, but I will come to the mosque and meet the women of the Jamaat again and increase our acquaintance.” it is uncommon to hear this at events in these countries.” Then, there was a local guest, Diene Sahiba. She says: “This function was very well organised. I listened to the speech of your Khalifa and it was very good. Excellent arrangements had been made for the women as well. I have attended for the first time, but I will come to the mosque and meet the women of the Jamaat again and increase our acquaintance.” There was another local guest. He says: “This was my first opportunity to attend such a programme [organised] by Muslims. Before I came, my neighbour warned me to be careful. He said that one never knows when and what Muslims might do. However, I greatly enjoyed coming here. The members of your Jamaat took great care of us right from the beginning until the end.” Then, another guest, a lady from the local area, Evelin Sahiba, says:

Khalifatul Masih for the first time. People create a lot of propaganda in the world against Islam. Today, your Khalifa gave all of them an outstanding answer. The state of the Muslims is such that they are not even aware of their belief and faith. These people should learn Islam from your Khalifa.” The truth is that the reality of the teachings of Islam can only be understood by attaching oneself to the Imam of the time, the Promised Messiah and Mahdias. Until these Muslims do not realise that they have to pledge initiation to the Promised Messiahas, they will not be able to learn about the true Islam. Nevertheless, he says, “Today, the Khalifa made it clear what Jihad truly means and how it is being misinterpreted. The incidents presented by the Khalifa in relation to the initial period of Islam and account of the Holy Prophetsa prove that Islam is a peaceful religion. This is the first time in my life that I have heard the message of Islam explained with such wisdom.”

Then, a non-Ahmadi guest from Morocco, Sufyan Sahib, says: “From today’s address I realised that you are all in fact the true and real Muslims and those people, who say that you are not Muslims, are completely incorrect. Everything the maulvis [religious clerics] taught me about Ahmadis from my childhood was false. However, in France, people are afraid of Islam and Muslims. We did not know how to defend Islam and how to dispel their fears. Today, your Khalifa defended Islam in an excellent manner.” As I mentioned before, one can only learn about the actual Islamic teaching after taking the oath of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas. Jacob Sahib was another guest in attendance and belongs to the Christian faith states: “The world stands in need of more events such as this one. Your Khalifa is removing the distances between people of different nations and faiths. He has told us that the terrorists are working to accomplish political objectives. Religion stands for good and should not be feared. His Holiness repeatedly spoke about freedom. All of this was something new for the French people as they have a completely different perception of Islam.” Maxine Onfray was another guest and works for a think tank. He stated: “Today is a wonderful day in my life. I had the chance to directly listen to your Caliph. He was entirely correct in saying that we are currently passing through such dark times which are filled with hate. However, he also taught us that this not due to faith, and that people need not fear Islam. His Holiness is absolutely correct in saying that the terrorists have hijacked faith in order to fulfil their political agendas. This is certainly true and I completely agree with him on this.” He then further he stated, “In light of the Islamic teachings His Holiness explained to us how we can leave this world a better place for our future generations.” He further stated, “This address should be published and shared with all of us.” This was the impression by a member of a think tank. Then, as I mentioned earlier, there was an event in UNESCO on 8 October which was attended by 91 guests. The ambassador of Mali in UNESCO, ministers of French interior and foreign affairs, religious advisor to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, director of the religious advisory, president of the NATO Memorial, members of parliament, counsellors, mayors and other people connected with different institutions of the government also participated in this event. While expressing his views, Oumar Keita Sahib, the ambassador from Mali at UNESCO, stated: “The Head of the Ahmadiyya Community is spreading peace and I would like to congratulate him for doing so. UNESCO is the ideal venue to discuss peace.” He also expressed his sentiments on how he learned a great deal from the address and he stated, “This is precisely what the Muslim Ummah needs right now.” He is a Muslim himself and lives in Mali. He said, “The concept of universal justice and harmony depicted by His Holiness is a dire need of the world today.”

The President of NATO memorial, Mr Breton, expressed his pleasure at attending this event. He stated: “This conference was very significant and historic. It can lead to the establishment of peace, tolerance and brotherhood. I wish for the maximum number of people to listen to the message of the head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.” He then stated, “His Holiness speaks about true Islam, which teaches peace and tolerance. This message is completely contrary to the actions of terrorists. His Holiness is making strenuous efforts to promoting this message of peace.” He then further said, “This is an essential task and we are also ready to support him.” He then stated, “Every single one of us should strive towards the establishment of peace. This work should be carried out on all levels, and in this regard, we should all lead by example.” Diallo Sahib, the president of the Catholic organisation associated with Mali, which is located in France, also attended this event. He stated, “I was familiar with Ahmadis from before. All religions should spread the message that we received today to others. After listening to this very beautiful address of His Holiness, I now have this ardent desire in my heart to personally pray for the progress of Islam.” He himself, however, is a Catholic. He then stated, “All of the world’s problems would be resolved if the Islam that His Holiness speaks about is established in the world. When there is respect for the feelings of others, peace will become prevalent everywhere. There is a dire need of establishing mutual respect. Each one of us follows their respective faiths. However, we have one common belief, which is in the existence of God.” Another guest, Bernard Sahib stated: “The Islam presented before us today was completely different than the propaganda we see on the television. This is true Islam.” He said, “Today, I acquired knowledge about the Holy Prophetsa and how he established a magnificent society in Medina. Today, I found out about Islam’s significant role in education and spreading knowledge worldwide.” A member of a human rights’ organisation in France also attended this event. He stated, “This speech was excellent and insightful. The steps needed for education and its advancement were mentioned in detail. His Holiness also mentioned the services rendered by Islam in the field of education. It was fascinating to learn about this.” A city council member also attended this event. He stated: “I am in charge of the department in the council that works to tackle against issues of racism.” Then he state, “I find what His Holiness said today extremely important, particularly, when he spoke about facilitating equal opportunities for the women to attain education and establishing mutual harmony in religious matters. Then His Holiness mentioned about the educational and health-related projects which the Jamaat started in the deprived areas of Africa. Usually, when Islam is discussed in France or other nations, various fears are mentioned. Islamophobia is prevalent in our society,

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM

“I was especially amazed to hear just how much Islam has contributed in the world towards the advancement in education, to learn about the huge role of the Muslims in this regard and His Holiness gave numerous examples of these.” so I was delighted to get an opportunity to hear positive things about Islam.” He states, “I wished to come here to find out more about your community and how it operates. Hence, today my wish was fulfilled.” Another guest, Alexander Sahib, stated: “The Caliph presented a message of peace and his speech was full of truth. His Holiness expressed his views very emphatically and categorically. I believe that the Ahmadiyya Community has clearly explained the subject of slavery. This message is magnificent, and of all the Muslims, Ahmadis, who are a small community, have presented this message.” A female journalist in attendance says: “I listened to the address, which was wonderful. I was especially amazed to hear just how much Islam has contributed in the world towards the advancement in education, to learn about the huge role of the Muslims in this regard and His Holiness gave numerous examples of these. In this address, His Holiness gave examples from the Holy Quran and from the [life] of the Holy Prophetsa about how they laid the foundations for a peaceful society.” She further says, “I have learnt a great deal today”. A guest by the name of Mr Bresiouu Willy, a charity worker, says: “It was a very important function and the message was excellent and historic. It was a message that the whole world needs to hear. My knowledge has increased through this address and I have come to learn the true meaning and importance of peace.” Then, there was the opening of the mosque in Strasbourg, which is another city in France, near the border of Germany. Approximately 191 guests were in attendance, among whom was a female member of parliament, 5 mayors of different locations, representatives of different religions, heads of different associations, people from different walks of life and also people from the small neighbouring towns and villages. These people came especially due to the fact that they had reservations against Islam, rather some harboured enmity, but when they came and attended, their impressions completely changed. Martine Sahiba, a member of the French parliament says: “I am so pleased that His Holiness delivered such a comprehensive speech, addressing peace and brotherhood, and this message was for the whole world.” She then says, “Ahmadi Muslims are so active, are always ready to go out and do something and their motto truly emanates from their actions.” She then says, “I shall come visit again some time when there are fewer people around, so that we can sit and

discuss in a more relaxed environment. In doing so, I will gain a better understanding of your values and this is very necessary for the betterment of our society.” She then says, “Your Caliph spoke about peace and tolerance which is a very important message for France and the French people. The French people need to know that the Islam we hear about in the media is very different indeed from the true Islam. We need to learn about this true Islam.” A deputy president of one of the departments from the council of Barin attended the function. He says, “We have a Buddhist European Centre for the Tibetans in our area. I am familiar with different religions and am fully aware of the services of the Christians, Jews, Judeo-Christians, Buddhists etc., yet I am so impressed after listening to the address today, firstly due to the words of His Holiness, and secondly, due to his concept of ‘Love for all, hatred for none’. He presented a complete image of Islam. He spoke about Islam in a manner which is completely different to the way Islam is portrayed and understood nowadays. His words are truly reflective of his views. He firmly believes in keeping the doors open for everyone and this is precisely what I have learnt from today’s address, and this is surely the path to peace.” Mr Eubajia and another woman, who perhaps was his wife, were also in attendance at the opening of the mosque in Strasbourg. They said: “Prior to accepting the invitation to this function, we conducted some research on the internet and learnt about your Community. After learning about the efforts of the Community, we wholeheartedly accepted the invitation and we were particularly delighted at the fact that the Community promotes a better understanding between different faiths. Furthermore, the Islamic teachings on human rights, in particular those of the neighbours were highlighted in the address.” Hence, prior to attending our events, many of the attendees research about our Community via the internet and learn a great deal about the true teachings of Islam. One guest commented: “I find it impossible to express my

feelings at this moment. Before, I had no idea of this Community within Islam. I met some members of the Community who invited me to this event, so I conducted some research on the internet and decided to come, and what a great decision it was! I cannot leave without praising what I have heard today. This is a peaceful branch of Islam and the true image of Islam, which is filled with humanity and love. I am now aware that the Islam that is portrayed to us is in fact not the true Islam, rather it is something completely different. I have also learnt that the Islamic moral teachings are the same as those of Christianity.” These people have no choice but to say this, but in private sittings, many also expressed that [the moral teachings of Islam] are far greater than those of Christianity. He continues, “Having heard what the Caliph had to say, I am certain that this is an extraordinary Community.” Mr Justin, President of the District Council in the city, said: “In the beginning I had many reservations when I heard that a mosque was going to be built here, but after hearing that your motto is ‘Love for all, hatred for none’, I thought to myself, how could I not accept the invitation of those who raise such a loving slogan in this day and age? The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community can act like a sword and play a vital role in fighting terrorism and extremism. In France, the people do not yet know enough about the Community, but we should look to the viewpoint of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in tackling extremism and the current problems and we should learn from them, which is why you have a great task ahead of you.” Mr Lue Ginzec, the Mayor of one of the cities said: “This is the first time I have visited a mosque. If this is what one experiences when they visit a mosque, as I have experienced today, then I shall come to the mosque every day. I was so pleased to come to the mosque and I felt so much comfort and peace that I cannot begin to describe it.” Thereafter, we travelled to Germany on 14 October for the inauguration of the mosque in Wiesbaden. The inaugural

ceremony took place in a famous hall in the city as there was limited space in the actual precinct of the mosque. A total of 370 guests attended this function, including the lord mayor, among others. There were also members of the Federal Government and government representatives of different ministries. There were directors of different departments of the government, police officers, priests, professors, doctors, lawyers etc. and people of all walks of life. The priest of a Catholic Church said: “His Holiness covered all the points in a very comprehensive manner and I completely agree with all the points mentioned by His Holiness in his address. To love others and to fulfil the due rights of God Almighty all form part of my own beliefs and teachings as well. Similarly, till this day I had never heard such a broad and comprehensive explanation of the concept of God in Islam, in which not only was His Perfect Unity mentioned, but also that He is the same One God and Lord of all religions, nations and civilisations and that He is All-Knowing and distinguishes not between any of His creation in neither creed nor nation, when it comes to granting His providence.” He then says, “How great would it be if all the leaders of the world would deliver such speeches about peace. I now wish to remain in contact with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and I will certainly come to visit the mosque.” These people themselves have entertained the idea that the God of Islam and the God of Christianity are not the same, but when the truth is made evident to them, they have no choice but to accept it. A representative of a Church in Mainz was also in attendance. He says: “What His Holiness said about the rights of neighbours and the Islamic teachings he presented was completely new to me and very interesting. This is the first time I have heard any religious leader give so much emphasis on the rights of neighbours.” A lawyer who works in a law firm says: “The broadmindedness of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community had already amazed those in my office, but after hearing what you said about the rights of neighbours and the vastness of the definition of a neighbour, whereby the whole city is counted, has left me even more astonished. Likewise, the scope of attention and sympathy of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has become even wider for those who live in this city.” Another guest, Susanne, who is a teacher, says: “What I liked most of this address was that all mankind has One Creator and we all believe in the same God. This is something we should all keep in mind.” Conny, who belongs to the Die

“This is the first time I have visited a mosque. If this is what one experiences when they visit a mosque, as I have experienced today, then I shall come to the mosque every day.”

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM Grune party and works in the integration department in the Wiesbaden Parliament, says: “This address was extremely inspiring. One of the aspects which I felt was extremely important and which I shall never forget was that all Ahmadi Muslims were advised to become valuable citizens in their area. Not only should the Ahmadis act upon this, but we should all do so too. If all the Muslim sects were openminded like the Ahmadi Muslims, then it would become easy for us to co-exist.” Here, I would like to make it clear that although we do live together, but at times, there are some who tend to show weakness [and compromise their own teachings]. Thus, you should speak to others whilst remaining grounded within the teachings of Islam, and by staying within this sphere of moral conduct, we can tell others about our teachings, thus there is no need to show any fear. The meaning of integration is to display high moral conduct whilst explaining the teachings of Islam. Nevertheless, I shall now present the impressions of the next guest who is a schoolteacher. He says: “This was the first time I came to know about your Community and the organisation was fantastic. I found it very important that the Caliph said that more attention needs to be given to tolerance and that we should treat followers of other religions, and in fact the whole world, with love and affection. This is rarely witnessed in our society these days and other religions are also forgetting this. However, you have given importance to these values. I will now certainly visit your mosque and seek the answers to all the questions that are in my mind.” A doctor from a local hospital said: “If religious leaders give the teachings that were presented today by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community in his address, then we would be able to establish respect for one another in our society. The church must also promote a similar message. At present, there are many questions that the church has failed to address.” He himself belongs to the Christian faith and further said, “The church has so far avoided answering many of the questions that the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community raised and answered from many angles, and without any hesitation he elaborated on the Islamic teachings.” He then said, “The most pleasing aspect is that all of His Holiness’s explanations and commentaries are such that it establishes peace and harmony.” A female guest, Heike Brader Sahiba, said: “His Holiness explained that God Almighty is the Lord of all the Worlds and the depth of this concept interested me greatly. The most astonishing fact was that although God Almighty is One and without any partner, but He is the God of all religions and people, Who cares for everyone without any distinction.” Thus, for the wise and those who deliberate, they are left with no option but to accept Tauhid [the Oneness of God] and it is imperative for them to accept the One God Who is the All-Powerful. It is the responsibility of every Ahmadi to spread this message of Tauhid to others.

Bauer Sahiba commented: “It was a great honour for me to be a part of this blessed gathering. All the reservations and misconceptions that I had were removed by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community where he explained and outlined the Islamic teachings. I have now understood many things.” One guest remarked: “The most important teaching to establish peace that was mentioned in the speech was that one should always be mindful of the values and beliefs of others. I was aware of the fact that there are many sects within Islam, but I was completely unaware of this peaceful [Ahmadiyya] Community.” Muktari Sahib, who works in the Wiesbaden Police force, said: “Todays programme demonstrates that Muslims wish to present a different side of Islam, which proves that in reality Islam is a peaceful religion. I really liked the fact that the Caliph mentioned that the Ahmadiyya Community operated various projects in Africa.” The Baitul Hameed Mosque was also inaugurated in Fulda and 330 guests attended the ceremony. The lord mayor was in attendance, however, after welcoming us outside, he then left. The mayors of other localities were present as well as council members, former members of parliament and chairmen of various parties. The chairman of the Round Table – which is a religious committee – was also present. The people of Fulda have many reservations about Muslims, in fact, there is opposition there. This was an old centre for Christianity and is famous for upholding their traditions. It is the wish of the Church to uphold their traditions, however the people of that area are also moving away from Christian values altogether. Owing to this fear, not all of the Church representatives attended the event. Similarly, some members of parliament did not attend the event and it was for the same reason the lord mayor said that he would not like to speak at the event, instead he said he would welcome everyone and also sat down but owing to fear of opposition he did not sit on the stage. The sentiments of some of the guests that attended the event is as follows: Regarding the part of my speech where I mentioned that all of us ought to unite on a common ground and through this we can achieve global peace, Harald Sahib said: “Given the circumstances of the present global climate, the [aforementioned] principle that was outlined is worthy of being followed and this in fact is exactly what the world needs at this moment in time.” He then said, “I now know that whatever we had been informed about Islam previously was not an accurate representation of the true teachings of Islam. Therefore, today’s event was beneficial and the message I take back is of peace.” A teacher of a local school said, “This message ought to be played in school to the students and they ought to be asked which religion presents such a beautiful teaching?” He then said, “At the very least, I would like to be given a copy of the proceedings so I can share the experience of this evening with my students.”

A mayor of a neighbouring town said: “The Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community addressed both the reservations and also explained the true teachings. He clearly highlighted the reasons why there is agitation in certain parts of the society and the reasons why the peace of the society is being destroyed. Despite all this, he never injured the sentiments of any other sect or faction of society, rather he spoke whilst explaining human values and presented ‘food for thought’ for the entire world at large.” Doctor Koehler said: “I was greatly impressed by how receptive the Ahmadiyya Community is, which was explained by the Caliph when he said that in order to uphold the rights of others, everyone must open their hearts and remove all misconceptions.” She further stated, “I also strive to ensure that there is religious tolerance in my hospital and that people are content through spirituality. I found peace and contentment in this event and I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to come here today.” As mentioned previously, there was an address in Berlin on the topic of Islam & Europe and the comparison between civilisation and culture. In this event there were 27 members of the National Assembly, including 3 representatives from the Foreign Office. There were also directors of religion and politics; 5 professors; vice-president of the Berlin University and Professor Steinbach, who is an accredited Professor of Middle Eastern Studies in Germany. In addition to this there were political officers of the French and United States Embassies, various representatives of the government, religious figures, representatives of the church and other communities. There were also representatives from the press and media, as well as Amnesty International. Alexander Sahib, who is a member of parliament, said: “The message of peace and harmony that was explained by His Holiness was based on the teachings of the Holy Quran and supported those teachings with the help of the Quran and the example of the Founder[sa] of Islam. Although the subject of the address was novel and dealt with contemporary issues, however, the Caliph supported his views with original Islamic sources. This proves that from the outset, Islam and the Holy Quran teaches compassion, peace and harmony amongst all of mankind. In my opinion this address ought to spread far and wide so that people in the West would understand the true teachings of Islam.” Niel Annen, Minister of State said: “Having listened to the explanation and analysis in which the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community explained Islam and Ahmadiyyat as well as introducing how religion as a whole plays a role in society, I feel that the Ahmadiyya Community strives for the rights of human values. This not only safeguards the rights of a certain religion or sect, rather, it supports human values on a global scale.” Christoph Strack Sahib said: “I have seldom attended a programme or seen such a programme organised by a Muslim community where the atmosphere of the event was so peaceful, and the

speeches at the event were so comprehensive and inclusive. It pleased me to see that someone was able to highlight the hidden conflicts concealed behind the seemingly progressing and civilised society.” He further said, “His Holiness clearly outlined the dangers of the impending nuclear war.” Christine Buchholz Sahib, who is a member of parliament, said: “The Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community correctly pointed out the crux of the current problems, and since he has correctly identified them, therefore the remedies he pointed out for solving the agitation among the people are lasting.” Zaklin Sahiba, another member of parliament, said: “The Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community highlighted his beliefs from various angles and left no ambiguities.” She then said that she agreed with every word of the speech. Professor Heribert Hirte said: “By ensuring that their members seek education, the Ahmadiyya Community has distinguished itself from all other religious movements. The outcome of a community that places so much emphasis on education is that they would go on to lead others, as opposed to follow something blindly.” Axel Sahib, Member of Parliament, said, “I will go back and read this address again. I will spread its message as far as I am able to.” Sabine Leidig said: “I do not ascribe to any faith but the manner in which the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community – in his capacity as a religious leader – has shown compassion for our future generations and warned the leadership of the consequences has had a profound effect on me. It is my desire to spread this message so that humanity at large could realise this and so that they take responsibility for our future generations.” Professor Christoph Gultman said, “I really enjoyed the programme and I learnt a lot from listening to the address. I have also noted down many references of the Holy Quran that were mentioned in the address. I will now read the address again when I reach home.” A guest, who is a Christian, states: “Prior to this event, I had never heard how much emphasis Islam lays upon peace and seeks for its establishment. I am delighted that the address of the Head of the Ahmadiyya Community was heard by the representatives of various political parties. Similarly, I saw a Jewish Rabbi and Muslims from other sects here as well.” Another guest commented: “The attention of every individual was drawn towards their responsibilities as to how they can establish peace. His Holiness explained in very simple terms that mankind must live with one another with a spirit of peace, and love and one of the most important factors for this is to respect one another. His Holiness also mentioned that there are plentiful resources in the world and enough for everyone if they are utilised properly.” Another guests said: “His Holiness directed our attention towards various aspects. The very first thing he mentioned was that in today’s society, religion is not given any importance and is

16 seen in a negative manner. As Christians, we also feel the same. Aside from this, what I felt was extremely important in His Holiness’ address was the importance of education and moral training. In this regard, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a model for everyone. If people were to realise what their Holy Book teaches, they will be safeguarded from many of the ills of today.” Thus, it is the responsibility of the Ahmadi youth to pay particular attention towards reading and studying the Holy Quran. They should then inform others of its teachings and they will have no choice but to ponder over it, learn of its wisdom and act upon it and accept it. One of the guests in attendance was a spokesperson for Amnesty International. He states: “I was extremely pleased from what I heard today. The explanation of civilisation and culture with reference to the Second Caliph [of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community] and their relationship with one another is something that even the intellectuals of today cannot refute.” He further states: “The Caliph has elucidated upon the verses of the Holy Quran in an excellent manner. These are the same verses which the opponents of Islam present by taking them out from its context.” Another guest, Nahawandi Sahiba, states: “By circulating this address on a widescale to Europe will help remove the reservations and negative views people have about Islam.” The Mahdiabad Mosque was also inaugurated and members of Germany’s National Parliament, the lord mayor, members of the Federal Assembly, speaker and deputy speaker of the Federal Assembly, five local mayors of the area and five chairmen of parliament and approximately 170 guests were present. One of the guests in attendance was the vice mayor, who said: “I will certainly go back and spread the words of the Caliph. Whenever anyone levels an allegation against Islam, I will try to defend Islam by presenting the words of the Caliph. His Holiness did not only address us but also the members of his community and told them after building the mosque, they must serve mankind even more than before.” A guest, Angelika Sahiba, said: “From today’s address I learnt that we should assess our general day-to-day conduct with others. We must extend our help to our friends and strangers alike.” Another guest stated: “We were extremely delighted to have attended this event. Many of our reservations have been removed and the manner in which tolerance was explained is something that is of importance to all faiths.” Another guest, Ulf Sahib, who is a Consultant of the Minister President, states: “What I liked most about the address by His Holiness was that he mentioned such aspects which lead to establishing unity amongst all faiths. I am a member of

Friday 29 November 2019 | AL HAKAM a Christian church and despite there being many differences between our faith and the manner in which we worship, the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community highlighted such aspects which everyone can agree to. I personally believe that we all have One God, however we worship Him in different forms.” Nevertheless, they are accepting the truth even if it is just this to extent. Witecke Sahib was another guest in attendance. He states, “In his address, His Holiness beautifully explained the status of women in Islam and the honour of women in society.” May Allah the Almighty enable their hearts to understand the true teachings of Islam, enable them to accept its teachings, believe in the true concept of the Unity of God and unite under the banner of the Holy Prophetsa. This is the only means to attain prosperity because their temporary worldly progress cannot secure the means to attain true prosperity. I would also like to mention some details regarding media coverage. News reports were published in Holland by two media channels, RTV Nunspeet and Euro Times, and its coverage reached 75,000 people. During the Bait-ul-Afiyat Mosque opening, a news channel of Almere reported on this event which reached out to 1.5 million people. Similarly, thousands of people received this news through various social media platforms. They have estimated that the total media coverage during the tour of Holland reached 1.6 million people. The majority of this coverage was in regard to the opening of the mosque in Almere which was covered by a national TV channel. The National News Agency of France published an article on the address delivered in UNESCO. The author of the article wrote at the end that he was surprised that the Khalifa did not mention anything about the persecution against Ahmadis. In relation to the Mahdi Mosque opening in Strasbourg, the DNA newspaper published a report and was also covered by a radio channel. Through these various media outlets, the news reached out to millions of people. In Germany, there were events held in Wiesbaden, Fulda, Berlin and Mahdiabad. According to the report of their secretary for external affairs, the message was conveyed to approximately 49 million people through 13 newspaper reports, four TV channels, one radio station and 12 reports through electronic media. Similarly, The Review of Religions conveyed the message through their means to approximately 1.5 million people. As I mentioned earlier that may Allah the Almighty enable the people to understand this message. After the Friday Prayers, I shall lead a funeral prayer in absentia of respected Maulvi Mahmood Ahmad Sahib, who was a missionary from Palghat, Kerala, India. He passed away on 15 October at the age of 54: َ ْ َ َّ َ ّٰ َّ ‫اج ُعوْ َن‬ ِ ‫ِانا لِل ِہ و ِانا ِالی ِہ ر‬ “Surely to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

Ahmadiyyat entered his family through his father, respected Maulvi K Muhammad Alvi Sahib, who was a very prominent scholar among non-Ahmadis. Owing to his acceptance of Ahmadiyyat, he faced intense opposition and hundreds of people in the province of Kerala accepted Ahmadiyyat through him. The late Maulvi K Mahmood Ahmad Sahib left his college studies on the advice of his father and joined Jamia Ahmadiyya and graduated in 1988. He was a great scholar, very pious and regular in his prayers, observing the fasts and offering the Tahajud prayer. He was extremely devout in his worship, looked after the poor, extremely patient and full of gratitude and a sincere person. He had a very deep knowledge of the Holy Quran, Ahadith,

In 1998 and in 2015, the Jamaat had very historic debates against the Anjuman Ishaat-e-Islam and the deceased had the opportunity to represent the Jamaat in this debate. Aside from this, he also had the opportunity to successfully debate against the Ahle-Quran and Ahle Hadith sects. The deceased was very regular in his prayers and began observing the Tahajud prayer from a very young age. His son-in-law writes that there is an incident from his youth that once the deceased could not offer his Tahajud prayer. Upon this, his father said to him, “My son, do you not wish to attain the status of Maqam-e-Mahmood?” After this, he always remembered this advice and adhered to this for the rest of his life, to the extent that despite his illness and state of extreme

“I am a member of a Christian church and despite there being many differences between our faith and the manner in which we worship, the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community highlighted such aspects which everyone can agree to.” books of the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa. He was very proficient in Arabic, Malayalam and Tamil. He also kept his own personal library, which included many rare and unique books. The deceased had the opportunity to serve in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakashadweep and outside of India, he served in Kuwait. He was a very good speaker and debater. In 1994, upon the instruction of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, he had the opportunity to debate against a very staunch opponent of the Jamaat along with respected Maulana Dost Muhammad Shahid Sahib and Hafiz Muzaffar Ahmad Sahib. The deceased was a Musi and leaves behind two wives and three daughters. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, two of his son-in-laws are also life-devotees. One of his son-in-laws writes: “In the vacation of his final year during his Jamia studies, he did not go home on the instruction of his father and instead dedicated the entire time to study the books of the Promised Messiahas.” This is a great example for the students of Jamia. In order to completely wipe out Ahmadiyyat from Kerala, all of the nonAhmadi Muslim sects got together and formed an organisation called Anjuman Ishaat-e-Islam. This organisation travelled all across Kerala and held gatherings in which they spoke against the Ahmadiyya Community and raised allegations against the writings of the Promised Messiahas. In response to this, the Jamaat held various gatherings which were all conducted by Maulvi K Mahmood Sahib.

weakness, he continued to fulfil this advice. He had a bond of great love and affection for Khilafat and was extremely loyal. In any talimi, tarbiyati and tablighi sitting, he would always devote a large part of the time to speak about the subject of Khilafat and would often become very emotional when speaking on this subject. In 2015, a lady, along with her children, accepted Ahmadiyyat and her husband was out of the country at the time. When he returned, the deceased preached to him and he asked the deceased why it was essential to believe in Khilafat. Upon this, the deceased spoke about the status of Khilafat and its importance and blessings in such an emotional manner that tears began to flow from his eyes. Although he had heard everything else as well but this in particular had such a profound impact on the non-Ahmadi that he immediately accepted Ahmadiyyat. In reality, he was a Sultan-e-Naseer [great helper] of Khilafat. May God Almighty grant him His mercy and forgiveness. May He elevate his status and enable his progeny to continue his good deeds. (Original Urdu published in Al Fazl International, 22 November 2019, pp. 5-11.Translated by The Review of Religions.)