Ismael – July – Sept 2022 (English)

What is Ismael Magazine?

By the grace of Allah Ta'ala, Waqifeen-e-Nau are now spread across the globe, many of whom are studying in their respective fields while others have already fulfilled their pledge of dedicating their lives for the Jama’at. There are many who are Missionaries, practising Doctors, Television producers, Architects, Graphic designers, Engineers, Accountants and much more.

Ismael is an international magazine, which was launched in 2012 by Hazrat Khalifatul-Masih the fifthaba specifically for the Waqifeen-e-Nau around the world. At this auspicious occasion, addressing the Waqifeen-e-Nau Huzoor-e-Anwaraba wrote:

“The magazine has been named as “ISMAEL”, which reminds us of the sacrifices made by Hazrat Ismaelas and by Hazrat Hajiraas who spent their lives in a desolate and barren place and instituted exceptional standards of sacrifices for the sake of religion. Likewise, it is expected of every Waqif to uphold the covenant of Waqf (dedication) made by their parents even before their birth, who have in turn themselves reaffirmed the same.”

Waqifeen-e-Nau can contribute by sending articles regarding their respective fields of studies. The magazine is published on a quarterly basis as a platform for the Waqifeen-e-Nau to get in touch and say what they have always wanted to. To subscribe to this magazine, you can contact your National Waqf-e-Nau Secretary. You can also read the magazine online at: www.waqfenauintl.org/resources/ismael

Remember, this magazine is for the Waqifeen-e-Nau, by the Waqifeen-e-Nau. Everyone is welcome to send their articles, contributions and comments. Ismael magazine is the central magazine for Waqifeen-e-Nau around the globe.

What does Islam say?

Islam’s view on obedience to the law of the land

Obedience to the law of the land is a religious duty. The Qur’an commands Muslims to remain faithful to not only Allah and the Prophet Muhammadsa, but also the authority they live under: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah, and obey His Messenger and those who are in authority over you” (Ch.4: V.60).

Any country or government that guarantees religious freedom to followers of different faiths (not just Islam) is owed loyalty. The Prophet Muhammadsa stressed this point when he said: “One who obeys his authority, obeys me. One who disobeys his authority, disobeys me.” (Muslim)

The present head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba, has also explained: “A true Muslim can never raise his voice in hatred against his fellow citizens, nor for that matter against the ruling authority or government of the time. It is the responsibility of a true Muslim that he should remain loyal and fully abide by the laws of the land of which he is a subject.”

(Baitul Futuh Inauguration Reception, 11 Oct 2003)

This makes clear that according to Muslims must obey the law of the land as anything to the contrary would mean that they are not obeying their Prophet or their religion.

THE PROPHETsa RECEIVES HIS FIRST REVELATION

Taken from Life of Muhammad

Written by: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood Ahmad Sahibra

Pages 9-10

When the Prophet sa was over thirty years of age, love of God and love of His worship began to possess him more and more. Revolting against the mischiefs, misdeeds and the many vices of the people of Mecca, he chose a spot two or three miles away for his meditations. This was on top of a hill, a sort of cave shaped out of stone. His wife Khadija ra would prepare food enough for several days, and with this he would retire to the cave Hira. In the cave he would worship God day and night.

When he was forty years of age, he saw a vision. It was in this very cave. He saw someone commanding him to recite. The Prophet sa said in reply he did not know what or how to recite. The figure insisted and at last made the Prophet sa recite the following verses: ''Recite thou in the name of thy Lord Who created, created man from a clot of blood.

Recite! And thy Lord is the Most Beneficent, Who taught man by the pen, taught man what he knew not'' (The Holy Qur’an, Ch.96 v.2-6). These verses, the first ever revealed to the Prophet sa , became part of the Qur’an as did other verses which were revealed later. They have tremendous meaning. They command the Prophet sa to stand up and be ready to proclaim the name of the One God, the One Creator— of the Prophet sa and of all others—who has made man and sowed the seed of His own love and that of fellowmen in his nature. The

Prophet sa was commanded to proclaim the Message of this God, and was promised help, and protection by Him in the proclamation of this Message. The verses foretold a time when the world would be taught all manner of knowledge through the instrumentality of the pen, and would be taught things never heard of before. The verses constitute an epitome of the Qur’an. Whatever the Prophet sa was to be taught in later revelations is contained in embryo in these verses. The foundation was laid in them of a great and heretofore unknown advance in the spiritual progress of man. The meaning and explanation of these verses will be found in their place in this Commentary. We refer to them here because their revelation constitutes a great occasion in the life of the Prophet sa When the Prophet sa received this revelation, he was full of fear of the responsibility which God had decided to place on his shoulders. Any other person in his place would have been filled with pride—he would have felt that he had become great. The Prophet sa was different. He could achieve great things but could take no pride in his achievement. After this great experience he reached home greatly agitated, his face drawn. On Khadija’s ra enquiry, he narrated the whole experience to her and summed up his fears, saying, “A Weak man that I am, how can I car ry the responsibility which God proposes to put on my shoulders.”

Khadija ra replied at once: “God is witness, He has not sent you this Word that you should fail and prove unworthy, that He should then give you up. How can God do such a thing, while you are kind and considerate to your relations, help the poor and the forlorn and bear their burdens? You are restoring the virtues which had disappeared from our country. You treat guests

with honour and help those who are in distress. Can you be subjected by God to any trial?”(Bukhari)

Having said this, Khadija ra took the Prophet sa to her cousin, Waraqa bin Naufal, a Christian. When he heard the account Waraqa said: ''The angel who descended on Moses as , I am sure, has descended on you'' (Bukhari)

56th Jalsa Salana UK Concludes with an Inspirational Address by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba

Press Release: 11th August 2022

More than 176,800 people join the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Press Release: 11th August 2022

The World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad concluded the 56th Annual Convention (Jalsa Salana) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community on 7th August 2022 with an inspirational address.

More than 26,600 people attended the Jalsa Salana, which took place at Hadeeqatul Mahdi in Alton, Hampshire.

Due to the continuing covid-19 related restrictions, the attendees were primarily from the UK with a limited number of international guests. The entire event was broadcast live on MTA International and streamed online.

A highlight of the three-day Jalsa Salana was the pledge of allegiance, known as Bai’at, which took place on Sunday afternoon. The Bai’at ceremony returned after a gap of three years with the last such occasion taking place before the pandemic in 2019. The participants once again formally pledged allegiance to Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad as

the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph) of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him).

The participants formed a human chain leading to the Khalifa as they repeated the words of the pledge in unison.

Prior to the ceremony, His Holiness announced that more than 176,800 people had joined the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community during the past year from 109 countries around the world.

During the concluding address, His Holiness continued with the theme of shining a light on the superior rights that Islam grants to mankind that are unmatched in any other faith or ideology. This was the third in a chain of addresses delivered by His Holiness

on this theme with the first two addresses being delivered at the concluding sessions of the Jalsa Salana UK of 2019 and 2021. At this year’s address, His Holiness focussed on the rights that Islam grants to women and the weak members of society. His Holiness presented a wholesome view of how Islam champions the rights of women and does not make empty slogans, rather enacts rules that elevate the status of women in a society.

Highlighting the flaws of current day movements that claim to support the rights of women, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Nowadays when the rights of women are being hailed, there is a failure to consider some basic fundamentals. When they make

rallying cries for the rights of women, they also take away their religious freedom and the right to practice their faith. When they try to take their rights from men, they do so in a way that it ends up creating a rift between men and women.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad further stated:

“They [the women’s rights movements] do not know how to solve the barriers that exist due to economic, social and cultural norms. They simply make a slogan that women and men are equal and assume that they have achieved a great feat in doing so. They do not ponder over the finer details and fail to make appropriate rules according to the reality of the challenges that exist. They do not think of the consequences of the rules that they themselves are creating to forge an equality. They fail to assess whether they are creating peace in society or are they furthering unrest? They do not care if their policies and ideologies are breaking apart the family unit.”

His Holiness went on to highlight how 1400 years earlier, Islam gave teachings that protect the rights of women and the minute details that Islam caters for in this regard. His Holiness quoted chapter 4 verse 2 of the Holy Quran which is recited at the time of the Nikah (Islamic marriage) ceremony. The verse states:

“O ye people! fear your Lord, Who created you from a single soul…”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Allah the Almighty has reminded the believers that they should never forget that both men and women are from the same soul and so are of one and the same kind. Therefore they have the same brain, and both have the same emotions and feelings. This verse is recited at the Nikah ceremony which means that it should be made clear at the time of Nikah that this matrimonial bond can only be strong if the man realises that the woman is the same as him in terms of her feelings, emotions, understanding and her rights. Therefore the man should not think that she is inferior to him in any way. The same lesson has been taught to the woman too.”

Speaking of the practice of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“The personal practice of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was that he would consult women in important matters. In the society where Islam was born, women were treated in such a derogatory manner that they were not allowed to express their opinions on trivial matters, let alone being consulted

on important decisions. However the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would consult them. This had created such bravery amongst women that they would be able to rebuke men whenever they placed any unnecessary restrictions upon them. It is narrated about Hazrat Umar(ra) that once when his wife expressed an opinion on a particular matter, he scolded her to say that she had no right to interfere in the matter. She replied, ‘You should remain silent. Those olden times have passed. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) has given us the right to speak. We also possess a brain and are able to express our opinion on important matters.’ In fact, the female companions learnt the faith and some of them would often give their advice to the Caliphs. Thus Islam gave rights to women at a time when they were considered worthless.”

His Holiness also explained that Islam gave women the right to inherit, which is something the West has only managed in the past century.

His Holiness went on to quote several examples and quotes from the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) which emphasise the kind treatment of women.

For instance, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and bless-

ings be upon him) said, “The best from amongst you is the one who is best to his family members and I am best from amongst you in treatment of my family.”

Referring to the numerous references in relation to the rights of women, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“All the references that I have presented are mainly in relation to the emphasis Islam lays upon the rights of women. The rights of men have not separately been stipulated as such in Islam. Even if there are such references, they are very few. This is because, generally within societies you see a dominance of men and thus men manage to attain their rights… In underdeveloped countries and in less educated societies women are particularly treated unjustly. The majority of the Muslim population is living in under-developed and less educated countries and so the rights of women are not given there and women are treated poorly. If men wish to speak of their own rights and if they wish to have their rights given to them then they must also fulfil the rights of women. This is the teaching of Islam. Given the general situation that exists [whereby men are dominant within societies], Islam has laid greater emphasis on fulfilling the rights of women. Despite this, people still seem to claim that Islam does not fulfil the rights of women!”

His Holiness then went on to ex-

plain the rights in Islam of “those who ask for charity and those who cannot.”

His Holiness explained the philosophy of giving in charity and who should be the beneficiaries. Referring to the quotes of the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II(ra), His Holiness mentioned that Islam emphasises the vast importance of giving to those who ask for help. However, at the same time, Islam also emphasises that the upper hand that gives is better than the lower hand that receives and thus Islam discourages those who are able to stand on their own feet from becoming habitual beggars.

However, His Holiness also said that for those who are to give in charity, whilst they can make the decision to not give in charity to those who would misuse the money, they may still give to people regardless of their circumstances because giving in charity is worthy of receiving the rewards of Allah the Almighty. They can do charity in a way that they try to help the recipient and also advise them to leave any bad habits.

His Holiness went on to explain that there are people in society who ask for help but there are those who do not or cannot do so and a true believer should seek to find ways to help even those who are unable to ask for help or who choose not to do so out of their

self-dignity.

Speaking further about the finer details that are covered by Islam about giving in charity, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Whenever a beggar or a person in need would come to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) to seek help, he would advise his own companions to also make the case for the person in need so that they can also benefit from the reward of Allah the Almighty of doing charity…Thus, not only has the right of the person who seeks help

been explained in this reference, rather the people who support a person in his efforts to seek help have been given glad tidings of attaining the reward of Allah. The attention of the believers has been drawn towards ensuring that they too should try to help those in need and if they themselves are not able to help the person who has a legitimate need, then they should try to find a way for that person to get the help that is needed.”

Explaining the Islamic approach to fulfilling the rights of people, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad

said:

“Materialistic people try to attain their own rights out of their vested interests. However, Islam emphasises that a person should seek to fulfil the rights of other people without any self-interest. If we truly act upon this teaching, it will result in introducing the teaching of Islam to the world. May Allah enable us to act upon the teaching of Islam so that we are able to help and assist in the mission that the Imam of the age has been tasked with in this era.

‘‘Whenever a beggar or a person in need would come to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) to seek help, he would advise his own companions to also make the case for the person in need so that they can also benefit from the reward of Allah the Almighty of doing charity…’’

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmedaba

Pearls of Wisdom

Huzoor's guidance regarding School Trips

Question: As an Ahmadi Teacher, it is compulsory in our field that we organise trips for students. With older students this may involve drinking or mixed gender socialising. In this instance how should we as Ahmadi teachers deal with this?

Q&A with Hazooraba

Huzooraba answered: First of all you have to assess that if it is compulsory for you to go on trips of this nature. If it is then you should lay out clear instructions that these activities would be disallowed. As Ahmadi teachers you are free to set disciplinary boundaries amongst the pupils and you should not be stopped in doing this.

Secondly, as ahmadi students you should try to avoid trips of such nature where you know these kinds of acts are bound to happen. There have been instances where non Ahmadi students have neglected on going to such trips based on their experiences of the previous year and as far as the Ahmadi students are concerned I discourage them to take part in such activities.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Talmeez Ahmad is 29 year old waqfe-zindagi serving in MTA International since 2014. We asked Talmeez a few questions about his waqf. This is what he had to say.

How did you know you wanted to dedicate your life in service of your faith?

By the grace of Allah, I was born into an Ahmadi household and from day one I have been brought up to give precedence to my faith over worldly matters. What were the events leading upto your Waqf being approved by Khalifatul-Masih V aba ?

Being inspired by my uncle, who is a missionary and serving as a teacher in Jamia Ahmadiyya UK, I have had a passion since my childhood to become a Missionary (minister of Religion).

My qualifications were not at that level

to join Jamia so I had to continue with my studies for another year and sit my exams. After the exams, beloved Huzoor asked me to continue with my studies and to keep beloved Huzoor up to date. As soon as I finished my diploma in IT, I then sought the guidance of beloved Huzoor in a Mulaqat. He graciously gave me permission to become a Waqif-e-Zindagi in MTA where I was already volunteering my time regularly. Alhamdulillah I have now devoted my life as Waqif-e-Zindagi in MTA International’s Translation Department.

Is there anyone who specifically inspired you?

I was particularly inspired by my Uncle who is serving as a Murabbi and as a teacher

in Jamia Ahmadiyya UK. The passion and humility with which he carries out his responsibilities and the amount of knowledge he has were incredibly inspiring for me and really motivated me to do something similar.

What creates passion and motivation when you are carrying out your Waqf?

By the Grace of Allah, I have been given the incredible opportunity to be able to spread the words of our beloved Imam all around the world to countless numbers of people in several different languages which we receive from our translators from many different countries. Knowing that I can be part of the process is an extremely humbling experience and I feel very fortunate to do this every day of my life Alhamdulillah.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to dedicate their life but is unsure about this life changing decision?

The biggest advice that I can personally give is to truly understand the meaning of Waqf, in other words devoting each and every aspect of your life to a higher cause, including aspects that you would not initially consider.

How important would you say are your earlier studies (Secondary School and University) in counting towards your ability to do Waqf?

It’s really important to have had my studies done before my Waqf.

What are three things you love about your Waqf?

My Waqf created so much change in my life in a good way Alhamdulillah, three things which I love about my Waqf are as follows:

1 . Brought me even more close to Allah Ta'ala and Jama'at.

2 . Saved me from so many sins and made me a good person Alhamdulillah.

3 . I’ve learned so much about my given work and about all the responsibilities I have been given and moreover the importance of the work and time.

How are you still keeping in touch with Khalifatul-Masih V aba with regards to your Waqf?

I write letters to beloved Huzoor on a regular basis and ask beloved Huzoor to pray for me that may Allah Ta'ala give me the strength to carry on my Waqf responsibilities and make me a good Waqf-e-zindagi a good example

for others, I ask for beloved Huzoor’s guidance regarding my work sometimes and even give an update about my work. Describe your daily routine?

I start my day with Fajr namaz and reciting the Holy Quran, then I have my breakfast at home and sometimes even in office too, I leave for work but before I leave for work I recite this dua that “Allah Ta'ala I am leaving my home, my wife and child, under your protection. Please take care of them as I will be out there working for your Jama'at”

I come to work and start my work with Du'a, the best thing I love about my work is that Alhamdulillah I don’t miss my namaz as the MTA complex is within the Baitul Futuh mosque. I finish work by Isha namaz and then I go home, give some time to my family, eat dinner together and I put my son to sleep telling him stories or reciting different Surahs of the Holy Quran. Finally, I finish my day with praising Allah Ta'ala and go to sleep.

Not everyone who is Waqfe-Zindagi will be posted near or around Khalifatul Masih or even in the same country. What advice do you have for such Waqifeen who will be posted far away from Markaz or their families?

Love of our beloved Huzoor, is the same for all Waqifeen no matter if they are around Khalifatul Masih or if they have been posted in another country. Beloved Huzoor has a really deep connection with all Waqifeen and prays for all the Waqifeen at the same level. One important thing we all Waqifeen should remember is that no matter wherever we get asked by jama'at to go and serve, we should accept it as a blessing despite our needs and our requirements. When a Waqif-e-zindagi leaves for jama'at work immediately Allah Ta'ala sends help to make his work easy.

Please share a story or event you had with Khalifatul-Masih V aba ?

I came to the UK in 2010 and after a few months, by the grace of Allah, I was given an opportunity to meet with beloved Huzur with my family. In the mulaqat, Huzur asked me “Kya tum Waqf-e-nau ho? - Are you Waqfe Nau ” I replied “Jee Huzoor AlhamdulillahYes Huzoor Alhamdulillah”. Huzoor pointed at my beard and said “Apni darhi ko aik Waqf-e-nau ki tarha achay say rakho, ye stylish darhi ek Waqf-e-nau pay achi nahi lagti - Keep your beard as it should be for a Waqf-e-nau, this stylish beard does not suit a Waqfe-nau”. At that time I felt so blessed and I was so happy about how beloved

Huzur takes care of us Waqifeen and how much love His Holiness has for us, it is just amazing.

Alhamdolillah, a year later I had an opportunity to meet beloved Huzur again. I was waiting for my turn and was next. My name was called to go into beloved Huzur’s office, and as soon as I walked in, beloved Huzur said “Han jee Maulvi sahib Masha’Allah darhi ab achi lag rahi ha - yes Maulvi sahib Masha’Allah your beard is looking nice now”. I was so surprised that beloved Huzur remembered me from the last mulaqat. That made me realise how special we Waqifeen are for beloved Huzur..

Treatment of Parents

Islamic Teachings

Originally published in The Review of Religions, August 1995

Shiraz Ahmad – Madras, India

Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

The Lord has decreed that you worship none save Him alone, and behave beneficently towards parents. If either or both of them should attain old age while you are alive, say not `ugh’ to them, nor chide them, and speak kindly to them. Lower to them the wing of humility out of tenderness and pray: Lord have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was little. (17:24-25)

These verses are most significant on this subject. After the unity of God, human beings should, through their attitude of love, affection, and kindness, give priority over all other things to their parents who have reached an old and difficult age.

Further, the verses speak of the situations when the behaviour of one or both of the parents becomes extremely trying and sometimes offensive. In response to that, not even a mild expression of disgust or disapproval should pass one’s lips. On the contrary they should be treated with profound respect.

Importance of Parents

(a) Hazrat Abu Umamah narrated that once a man asked the Holy Prophet(sa) about the rights of parents upon their children. He replied that: `The parents are the Heaven or Hell for their children.’

(b) Hazrat Abdullah Bin Amr narrates that the Holy Prophet(sa) said: `The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of father and displeasure of Allah lies in the displeasure of father.’

(c) Once a person came to Holy Prophet(sa) and sought his advice about taking part in Jihad with him. The Holy Prophet(sa) asked him whether his mother was alive? He answered `yes’. The Holy Prophet(sa) then told him `Go back home and serve her as Heaven was under her feet’.

(d) Hazrat Abu Hurairah narrates: The Holy Prophet(sa) cursed the person three times whose old parents (both or one) were alive and he still did not earn Heaven (by serving them).

Rewards for Serving Parents

Holy Prophet(sa) once told a very interesting anecdote to his companions about three persons. According to him, the three persons were once traveling when heavy rains began to fall. They took shelter in a cave. Incidently, a big stone came hurtling down and blocked the opening of the cave. All the three travellers lost the hope of their survival. One of them told the rest not to lose hope and pray to Almighty Allah, by describing the most virtuous deed of their lives, for enabling them to get out of the cave. One of them addressing Almighty Allah, submitted that he had old parents and several small children. When he would come back home after grazing the goats he would first offer the milk to his old parents and then to his children. Once when he came home quite late, his parents were asleep. He milked the goats as usual and taking the cup of milk went to his old parents, but did not disturb their sleep. The whole night he stood near his parents (to give them milk whenever they get up). He prayed to Allah to enable them to come out of the cave. Allah was pleased with the act of this man and the stone moved a little. Similarly, after the other two related their tales, the stone was fully moved and they were able to come out of the cave.

Nice Behaviour with Parents

1. Once Hazrat Abdullah-Bin-Masood asked the Holy Prophet(sa) to tell him the deed liked by Almighty Allah. The Holy Prophet(sa) replied. `To offer prayers in time.’ He asked him to tell the second best. He was told `to behave nicely with parents’.

2. Conduct of Hazrat Abu Hurairah with

his mother: Once Marwan appointed Hazrat Abu Hurairah to officiate him for some days in his absence. At that time he was in ZUL Hulaifah and his mother was living in another house at some distance from him. Whenever Abu Hurairah went out he would first come to the house of his mother and say `My dear mother peace be upon you and may Allah be merciful to you.’ The mother would reply, `My dear son, peace be upon you too and may Allah be kind and merciful to you.’ He would say, `May Allah be kind to you as you have been kind to me in my childhood.’ She would reply, `My dear son, may Allah be kind to you as you are kind to me now in my old age.’

Respect for Father

Once Hazrat Abu Hurairah came across two persons. He asked one of them about the other. The person replied that the other one was his father. Then Hazrat Abu Hurairah strictly advised the son never call his father by name and neither to walk ahead of him nor to take seat before he takes the seat first in a gathering.

Behaviour with Father

Once a man complained to the Holy Prophet(sa) about his father who took his belongings whenever he liked. The Messenger of Allah called for his father, who was a very old man, and asked him the details of the matter. The father said, `O, Messenger of Allah, there was a time when my son was weak and helpless and bare handed while I had strength and wealth. I never hesitated to give him my belongings whenever he needed them. Today I am weak and bare handed while he is rich and now he keeps his belongings from me.’ Hearing this, tears came to the eyes of the Holy Prophet(sa) and he said to the son: `You and your belongings belong to your father. You and your belongings belong to your father.’

Behaviour with Mother

1. Hazrat Abu Hurairah relates that once a person came to the Holy Prophet(sa) and asked, `O Holy Messenger of Allah who is the most deserving person to get nice treatment from me?’ He replied, `Your mother.’ He asked, `Who next?’ To this, he got the same reply. When he repeated this question for the fourth time, he was told by the Holy Prophet(sa), `Your father.’

2. Compensation for mother: Once Hazrat Abdulla-Bin Umar saw a Yemenite doing Tawaf of Holy Ka’aba with his mother on his back. Seeing Hazrat Abdullah he asked that had he not compensated for the rights of his mother? Hazrat Abdullah replied that it was not the compensation even for a single birth pang of his mother.

3. A person came to the Holy Prophet(sa) and complained that his mother was ill-tempered. The Holy Prophet(sa) of Allah said, `She was not ill-tempered when she kept you in her womb for nine months.’ The person insisted, `Sir, I am telling you the truth that she is ill-tempered.’ The Holy Prophet(sa) said, `She was not ill-tempered when she used to keep awake the whole night for your sake and fed you.’ The man replied, `I have recompensated all the favours of my mother.’ The Holy Prophet(sa) then asked: `How have you recompensated her?’ He replied, `I have helped her perform Hajj by putting her on my shoulders.’ After hearing this, the Holy Prophet(sa) put a question to the complainant, `Can you recompensate the painful pangs your mother bore at the time of your birth?’

Treatment of Non-Muslim Parents

Asma, daughter of Abu Bakr, says her mother (who was a non-Muslim) came to her. Asma came to the Holy Prophet(sa) to ask him whether she should do

her some kindness. The Holy Prophet(sa) replied, `Yes, show kindness to your mother.’ Then this following verse of the Qur’an was revealed:

Allah forbids you not respecting those who have not fought against you on account of your religion, and who have not driven you out from your homes, that you be kind to them and deal equitably with them; surely Allah loves those who are equitable. (60:9)

Abusing the Parents

The Holy Prophet(sa) said: It is a grievous sin for a person to abuse his parents. Someone asked: Would a person ever abuse his parents? Yes, said the Holy Prophet(sa). If a person abuses another’s father, his own father will be abused in return and if he abuses the other’s mother the same abuse will be returned.

Disobedience to Parents

1. Hazrat Abu Bakr narrates that once the Holy Prophet(sa) asked that should he not warn them against three major sins? All of them said. `Certainly, O Prophet!’ He then said. `To ascribe partners with Allah, to disobey parents’; getting up as he was reclining, he said `to tell a lie or to give false evidence’. He went on repeating his words for such a long time that we wished him to be silent.

2. Hazrat Abu Bakr narrates that Holy Prophet(sa) said, `Allah postpones the punishment for one’s sins till the day of judgement, if He so desires. But He awards the punishment for disobeying the parents during this life, before his death.’Sauban narrates that the Holy Prophet(sa) said:

There are three sins which nullify all other virtues:

1. Ascribing partners with Allah

2. Disobedience to parents

3. And fleeing from Jihad

3. Once, when the Holy Prophet(sa) was talking to his companions, a man came and addressed him: `O, Messenger of Allah! A young man is breathing his last. People are asking him to recite Kalima but he is unable to do so.’ The Holy Prophet(sa) asked, `Did this man offer prayers?’ and the man said `Yes’. Then he accompanied the man to the house of the dying young man along with others present at that time. The man was at the end of his life journey. The Messenger of Allah advised him to offer Kalima. The man replied that he was unable to do so as the words would not come out of his mouth. The Holy Prophet(sa) then called for the mother of the dying man whom he had disobeyed persistently. When his aged mother came, the Holy Prophet(sa) asked `Respected lady is he your son?’ She replied `Yes’. He then put her a question, `O Respected lady, if we threaten to throw your son in a raging fire, will you recommend him to be forgiven?’ The lady replied that she would definitely do so at that time. The Holy Prophet(sa) then said to her, `If so, declare, making Allah and me your witness that you are now pleased with him.’ The old woman readily declared, `O Allah, you and your messenger be my witness that I am pleased with this beloved son of mine.’Just after that the Holy Prophet(sa) turned to the dying man and asked him to recite `Kalima’. By the virtue of the forgiveness of his mother he found the words flowing out of his mouth and he recited the Kalima. Seeing this the Holy Prophet(sa) praised Almighty Allah saying `Thanks to Almighty Allah that He saved this man from the fearful fire of Hell through me.’

Respect for Wives’ Parents/Friends’ Parents

The Prophet’s own parents and grandparents had died while he was still a child. The parents of some of his wives were, however, alive and he always treated them with great consideration and respect. The occasion of the surrender of Mecca when the Holy Prophet(sa) entered the town as a victorious Gen-

eral, Abu Bakr brought his father (Ayesha’s grandfather) to meet him. Holy Prophet(sa) said to Abu Bakr: `Why did you trouble your father to come to me? I would gladly have gone to him myself.’

Incident about the Promised Messiah(as)

The Promised Messiah instilled in his children great respect for their mother, recalling the saying of Holy Prophet(sa) that `paradise lay under the feet of mothers’. Once when his wife and her (wife’s) mother had a disagreement and were both in tears, he took his wife and led her in front of her mother where she bowed her head, her mother immediately raised her daughter’s head and embraced her. All annoyance was gone.

Debts of Parents after their Death

Hazrat Abdullah bin Zubair never neglected the rights of his parents even after they were dead. Hazrat Zubair was a very rich man. Usually as soon as any rich father dies his children start clamouring for their shares from the belongings of the deceased. But Hazrat Abdullah was not at all worried. He could have been well anxious to get his share which amounted to millions. But his only anxiety was about the debt, of his father which he wanted to repay without any exception.

Consequently, he first cleared the debts of his father from the left property. Immediately the other legal heirs started scolding him for getting their shares from the property of the deceased. But Hazrat Abdullah strictly told them to wait for four years. During these years, he said, he will announce on the occasion of Hajj to the people to come and collect their debts, if any is due upon his departed father till not a single debt remains unpaid. Only after that he would distribute the property.

Other Duties of Children after the Death of Parents

A man asked the Holy Prophet(sa): `Do I owe a duty to my parents after their death?’ The Holy Prophet(sa) said: `indeed yes, in four respects:

1. that you should pray for Allah’s forgiveness for them and call down His blessings upon them, 2. that you should carry out whatever they undertook to do,

3. that you should honour their friends, 4. that you should strengthen the ties of kinship with those who are related to you through them. This is what you owe them after their death.’

Two incidents

1. Once Hazrat Abu Darda fell critically ill. Knowing this, Hazrat Yousuf-bin-Abdullah came to enquire about his health, travelling a long distance–Hazrat Abu Darda was surprised to see him there and asked, `How did you come here?’ Hazrat Yousuf replied `Sir, I came here only to enquire about your health, for my respected father had most friendly relations with you.’

2. Hazrat Abdullah-bin-Umar once met a bedouin (an Arab desert tribe person) on his way to Mecca. The bedouin looked minutely at him and asked whether he was the son of Hazrat Umar. Hazrat Abdullah replied `yes’ and gave his turban to the bedouin and made him sit respectfully on his don-

key. According to Hazrat Ibn Dinar who was one of the co-travellers, all of us were surprised to see it. They asked Hazrat Abdullah the reason for giving so much respect to a bedouin. Hazrat Abdullah replied that he bedouin’s father was a friend of Hazrat Umar and then quoted the Holy Prophet(sa) `Maintain the friendship of your father and do not let it be finished otherwise Almighty Allah will put off the light (noor) for you’ and `The greatest virtue is to favour the son of one’s father after gaining power to do so’.

Charity of Behalf of Dead Parents

Narrated Aisha: A man said to the Prophet. `My mother died suddenly and I thought if she had lived she would have given alms. So, if I give alms now on her behalf will she get the reward?’ The Prophet(sa) replied, `yes’.

Praise by Children for Their Dead Parents

Hazrat Abu Hurairah narrates that the Prophet(sa) said that when a person died, his period of activity was over. But there were three things which remain benefiting him even after his death.

1. Lasting act of welfare.

2. His knowledge beneficial to people.

3. His/Her righteous children who pray to Allah for his/her deliverance and forgiveness.

ASK A MURABBI

Born in Karachi, Pakistan and raised in Norway, Musawer A Shahid is currently serving in Finland since 2014.

What inspired you to apply for Jamia?

When I came to Jamia in September 2006, I was regularly asked the question what inspired me or made me apply to Jamia, and honestly it was one of the most difficult questions to answer at that time. I always felt that there are some decisions in a person’s life which happen to take place automatically and we do not have any say in them. I have thought about this question from the first time it was asked to me and until this day I do not have the answer. However, I will say this much that if given the chance again, knowing everything that I know now I would 100% make the same decision that I made some 16 odd years ago back in late 2005.

Was there anyone who inspired you to become a Murabbi? Someone you looked up to in your childhood.

I remember that from a very young age I saw my father doing Jama’at work regularly, in Pakistan and in Norway. And that is the first memory I have when it comes to the importance of serving the Jama’at. As we grew up our par-

ents always explained to us and told us how important the Jama’at was for us. And me being the only Waqf e Nau among my siblings my parents always put great emphasis upon this matter. As I got older I heard stories of various Missionaires who had done well in the field and were praised by Huzoor Anwar in his Friday Sermons, I think that also had an impact. But I think the person I looked up to the most when it comes to becoming a Murabbi I think it would be my father. My father once did tell me that he wished that I would become Murabbi but also was very clear that it should be my choice and somehow that always stuck with me and I guess in this regard I am grateful to my father.

Name three things that you experienced in your time studying in Jamia which changed you as a person.

During Jamia life you have many experiences. You meet new people, you make friends for life and also you learn many new things. For me personally and what ranks the highest would be the nearness to Huzooraba and Khilafat. Before Jamia we had the chance to have mulaqat with Huzoor

Anwar a few times but never had the chance to be close to him like this. I think the best experience was being near Khilafat and seeing it firsthand. Second, I would say as I moved from Norway to the UK. It was the first time that I was going for a longer period of time away from home. I was scared, and emotional and also very excited about what this chapter of my life would be. I can honestly say it had an impact on me and also changed me. Figuring out how to live with people in a hostel, caring about their feelings and just living together. It is an experience which is hard to describe in words. The third thing is that there are no excuses. If you have been given a job to do, you do it, and you do it well. You cannot sit around complaining I do not have the means to do it, or can you ask someone else to do it. This was something that I think taught me, to be more responsible with any work that I am given, and also taught me that no matter what we are here to serve Khilafat and Jama’at and we should always try and find new ways to fulfil our duties.

Any special memorable moment with Khalif-tul-Masihaba which stuck with you?

To be honest any moment in the company of Huzoor is memorable. If I really have to pinpoint one I think it would have to be the first time I heard Huzoor say my name directly. In every Mulaqat we would go during Jamia, Huzoor used to say, Maulwi or Maulana from second year onwards. However, in 2011 in Norway, when Hu-

zoor came to inaugurate the Baitun Nasr mosque in Oslo, Norway. in our family mulaqat Huzoor was speaking to my father and suddenly I heard him say my name “Musawer”. I remember even till this day I started crying right there and then and my younger brother was elbowing me saying why are you crying, all that I could say was that “I Never knew that Huzoor knew my name”

How has studying in Jamia prepared you for your posting?

I think not only studies but every experience in Jamia prepares you for the posting. Wether it be meeting new people, learning to manage different mentalities and situations all of it plays an important part in developing a person for their posting, and so is the case with myself. However studies are a very important part of it. Where are you posted and what are your daily activities?

I am now posted in Finland. I was posted here in 2014. I had the opportunity to be the first appointed Murabbi for the Jama’at of Finland. Nowadays after Covid prayers are being offered in the Namaz Centre, during the early hours of the day I try and do some studying and any office work that is needed. Alhamdolillah we are at the moment working on the Translation of the Holy Quran in the Finnish language so that takes up some time in the morning, and in the afternoon and evening some Jama’at meetings and classes are held. And on the weekend there is always

some programme or children’s classes that takes place. So the day starts with Fajr and ends with Isha and sometimes a little later.

What are two things that you would advise the current Jamia students around the world?

My humble advice would be that while in Jamia along with your studies there are two things that in my opinion you should try and do. Number one is that try and develop a relationship with God. I remember that in one of the student’s diary in Jamia Huzoor wrote

Can you share with us any special moments that you have had with Hazooraba

Always be loyal to Allah And the second one is, be near Khilafat and establish a bond with Huzoor. Pray behind him, seek guidance from him, go for Mulaqat when you have a chance. Just hold fast to the rope of Allah, and Insha’Allah Allah will always help you in you endeavours.

What would your advice be for those students who want to join Jamia?

To anyone who would like to join Jamia but is unsure I would say that seek guidance from Huzoor, can go for Mulaqat and speak to him. Secondly I would say take it from me, I still do not know what happened that I joined Jamia, but it was probably the best decision of my life. Secondly as a Murabbi I have seen and others as well that Allah’s help is always with you.

During Jamia and after I think I have been so lucky to have met Huzoor on numerous occasions and I will share one or two with you here. During Mulaqat with Huzoor in Masjid Fazl, Huzoor Anwar suddenly said to me push that footrest towards me. I got scared and said Ji Huzoor? Huzoor graciously repeated and I very slowly and carefully pushed it towards Huzoor and I think it was so softly that it barely moved. Seeing this Huzoor said don’t you have any power push it harder towards me. I again tried my level best to push it towards Huzoor. I guess seeing how nervous I got Huzoor smiled and said ‘Theek hai’ that now it is ok.

Once Huzoor came back from a trip out of UK and Huzoor had lapel pins that Huzoor was giving to the Jamia students that were going for mulaqat. However when my turn came Huzoor said to me, that I do not have any more lapel pins. I got a little sad but i tried to hide it and said humbly to Huzoor, that it is okay. But suddenly Huzoor opened his cabinet door and took out a half eaten chocolate bar (for some reason when I am writing this I forgot the name of the chocolate) and said to me that I can have this, I ate it and you can have it. I remember that I was so happy and in an instant I had forgotten all about the lapel pins.

As I am from Norway, on the occasion of inauguration of Bait un Nasr Mosque we had a family

Mulaqat. During the Mulaqat Huzoor spoke to all my family. and suddenly Huzoor asked me “Musawer have you passed your exams” upon which I replied yes Huzoor, I was second in my year. Huzoor then turned to my father and said while smiling “How has your son become so smart” we all started to laugh. Huzoor continued saying that “he is a good student, he is my shahkar”. When I heard this I remember I was crying and I could not stop. Huzoor looked at me a few times while smiling and I did not have the courage to look at Huzoor. After a few moments Huzoor stood up for the picture, he called me over, I bend down to kiss his hand while crying, Huzoor graciously rubbed my back as to console me and held my hand while the picture was taken.

Do you have any advice for Murrabiyan who are currently serving the Jama’at?

The advice would be that even though a Murabbi may be posted far away from Huzoor and Markaz, always remember that Huzoor is always praying for Murabiiyaan of the Jama'at. And we should always try and keep regular contact with Huzoor Anwar. Our job is to bring people closer to Khilafat and to do that we must always remind the members to keep a close relationship with Khilafat. Because honestly there is no life without Khilafat!

Jamia Ahmadiyya UK will be holding entry test and interview on 04th and 05th July 2023 for this year’s intake of students. The following conditions apply:

Qualifications: Applicants with A-Level qualification will be given preference. Applicants with A-Levels qualification (passing with a minimum B in at least 3 subjects) will be accepted. Applicants applying with GCSEs must obtain grades 8 and 9. BTEC qualification will not be accepted.

Age on Entry: Maximum age of 17 years for students with GCSE or 19 years with A-Levels or equivalent qualifications.

Medical Certificate: The applicants MUST submit a medical certificate from the GP with whom they have been registered.

Written Test and Interview: The applicants will take a written test and will appear before a Selection Board for interview. Only those who pass the written test will be invited for interview.

The written test and interview will be based on the recitation of the Holy Quran, the Waqfe Nau Syllabus, and proficiency in reading, writing and spoken English and Urdu languages. Furthermore, candidates will be judged on their potential of learning and reading the translation of the Holy Quran, Ahadith, the books of the Promised Messiahas as well as religious and general knowledge.

TO JAMIA AHMADIYYA UK 2023 Applications should be addressed to: THE PRINCIPAL

Jamia Ahmadiyya UK Branksome Place Hindhead Road Haslemere GU27 3PN

For any further help or clarification, please telephone: +44(0)1428647170 or +44(0)1428647173, +44(0)7988461368(Mob.), Fax: +44(0)1428647188

Jamia is open from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. Visitors are welcome ONLY by prior appointments.

Procedure: Application will ONLY be accepted on the prescribed Admission Form available from the Jamia UK office. Incomplete application form will not be accepted. It must be accompanied by the following documents:

• Application must be endorsed by the National Ameer.

• Medical certificate from the GP.

• Photocopies of the GCSE or A-Level results. If the results are awaited, the candidate must include a letter from his school/ sixth Form tutor about his projected grades.

• Copy of applicant’s passport.

• One passport size photograph.

• An attested photo copy of the birth certificate.

• The spellings of the name must be the same as in the passport.

LAST DATE: The application for the 2023 entry MUST arrive by 30th May 2023. Applications received after that will not be considered.