Ismael – July – Sept 2023 (English)

ISMAEL

Taleemi & Tarbiyyati Magazine for Waqifeen-e-Nau QUARTERLY

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ISSUE #31

| JUL-SEP 2023

Jalsa Salana

Waqf-e-Arzi Experience: Ibrahim Malik

May we Never be of those who “Bid Farewell” Jalsa Journey: Dr Atta-Ul-Hadi

In the Spotlight: Afaq Ahmad - Markaz It

ISMAEL

Taleemi & Tarbiyyati Magazine for Waqifeen-e-Nau

CONTENTS

QUARTERLY

|

ISSUE #31

| JUL-SEP 2023

Jalsa Salana

06 07 08

Editorial

What is 'Ismael'

The Holy Qur'an

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Report: The Annual National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema Sweden

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Waqf-e-Arzi Experience

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Why Muslims Pray Five Times a Day

The Promised Messiahas

Pearls of Wisdom

Q&A With Huzooraba

By Ibrahim Malik Sahib

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Azhar Goraya Sahib

Meet the Team Chief Editor & Manager: Luqman Ahmed Kishwar

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English Editor: Mudabbir Din

In the Spotlight

Urdu Editor: Farrukh Raheel

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Editorial Team: Touqeer Tanvir Farukh Arshad

Afaq Ahmad Sahib

Monthly Report Waqf-e-Nau Indonesia

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May we Never be of those who “Bid Farewell” Jalsa Journey Atta-Ul-Hadi Sahib

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Abid Khan Sahib’s Diary

Report 5th National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema 2023

Musharraf Ahmed Talat Syam Content manager: Raheef Ahmad Muslum Creativity & Cover: Talat Syam Designing Team: Talat Syam (Lead Designer) Ehtesham Ul Islam Proofreading: Sadiq Ahmed Rabeeb Mirza

Follow the Central Waqf-e-Nau Department on

@WAQFENAUINTL

@WAQFENAUINTL

WWW.WAQFENAUINTL.ORG

@WAQFENAUINTL WAQF-E-NAU (CENTRAL) 22 DEER PARK ROAD, LONDON. SW19 3TL (UK) +44 (0)20 8544 7633 +44 (0)20 8544 7643 manager@ismaelmagazine.org editorenglish@ismaelmagazine.org editorurdu@ismaelmagazine.org

Subscription contacts: To subscribe to the 'Ismael Magazine' contact your national Secretary Waqf-e-Nau

“The magazine has been named as “ISMAEL ISMAEL”, which reminds us of the sacrifices made by Hazrat Ismaelas and

by Hazrat Hajiraas Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmedaba

UK- Anas Ahmad Rana waqfenau@ahmadiyyauk.org Canada - Basil Raza Butt waqfnau@ahmadiyya.ca USA - Mirza Harris Ahmad national.wn@ahmadiyya.us Australia - Ataul Awal nsahmad@hotmail.com Spain - Qaiser Malik qaismalik10@gmail.com Belgium - Dr idrees Ahmad waqfe.nau@ahmadiyya.be Switzerland - Jariullah Zafarullah waqfenau@ahmadiyya.ch Ireland - Attaur Rehman Khalid waqfenau@islamahmadiyya.ie Mauritius - Mohsin Ahmad Ramjeet waqfenaumauritius@gmail.com Sierra Leone - Shahid M. Korjie waqfenau.sl@gmail.com New Zealand - Muhammad Yaseen yasinsec681@hotmail.com Ghana - Hafiz Abdullah Mohammad sani waqf-e-nau@ahmadiyya.org.gh France - Ashfaq Rabbani mrehman@hotmail.fr

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Editorial and speakers from various fields come together to address pressing social, moral, and ethical issues. The convention encourages critical thinking and the exchange of ideas, promoting a culture of open dialogue and constructive debate. It empowers individuals to reflect on their faith and its application in the modern world, fostering a deepened understanding of the teachings of Islam.

n this quarter, the Ismael editorial team has with the grace of Allah the Almighty brought out a special Jalsa Salana edition. This edition explains that the Jalsa Salana, which is an annual convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslims, is not just a mere event but a profound embodiment of unity, faith, and reflection. This remarkable gathering brings together people from diverse backgrounds, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. It serves as a platform for spiritual rejuvenation, intellectual discourse, and communal solidarity. In this editorial, we will delve into the significance of Jalsa Salana and the enduring impact it has on individuals and communities.

Jalsa Salana carries a message of peace and tolerance to the world. In a time when religious intolerance and extremism are on the rise, this annual convention stands as a testament to the peaceful teachings of Islam. It emphasizes the values of love for all, hatred for none, and the rejection of violence in the name of religion.

Jalsa serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the misconceptions and stereotypes often associated with Islam, demonstrating that it is a religion of peace, compassion, and justice.

One of the most striking aspects of Jalsa Salana is the unity it fosters among participants. Ahmadi Muslims from around the world gather under one roof, transcending the artificial divisions of nationality, race, and ethnicity. This powerful display of unity serves as a beacon of hope in an increasingly divided world. At Jalsa, attendees are reminded that, despite their differences, they are part of a global community bound together by a common faith and purpose.

Jalsa Salana is more than just a gathering; it is a testament to the enduring values of unity, faith, and reflection. It brings people together in the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, providing a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and intellectual enlightenment. This annual convention is a beacon of hope in a world plagued by division and strife, promoting the message of peace, tolerance, and love for all.

As Jalsa Salana continues to inspire and uplift individuals and communities, its significance as a symbol of unity and faith remains as profound as ever.

Jalsa Salana is not just a social gathering; it is a spiritual retreat. The convention provides a unique opportunity for attendees to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in prayer, reflection, and devotion.

The spiritual atmosphere at Jalsa is palpable, with congregational prayers, recitations from the Holy Quran, and inspirational speeches serving as a constant source of spiritual nourishment.

It is a time for individuals to strengthen their connection with God and seek inner peace and tranquillity.

We hope and pray that by reading this issue, our Waqifeen-e-Nau gain a valuable insight to the Jalsa Salana, which has been declared by the Promised Messiahas as like no worldly fair but it is an event to increase ones piety and a means to strive to attain nearness to God Almighty.

Ameen

In addition to spiritual rejuvenation, Jalsa Salana also offers a platform for intellectual discourse and enlightenment. Scholars, experts,

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What is the 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 Khalifat-ulMasih 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 Waqf 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.

This 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 from around the globe.

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The Holy Quran

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ٰ ّ َ َ ۡ ٰ ّ ‫الرحمن‬ ّ ‫ب ۡسم الل ِہ‬ ‫الر ِح ۡی ِم‬ ِ ِ ِ

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َّ ٰ ّ َ ُ َ َ ّ َ ۡ ُّ ۡ َ ۤ ٰ ٰ ۡ َ ‫و ِمن ای ِت ٖہ ان یر ِسل الرِیاح مب ِشر ٍت و‬ َ‫ل ُِی ِذیۡقَ ُک ۡم ِّم ۡن َّر ۡح َم ِت ٖہ َو ل َِت ۡجر َی ال ۡ ُف ۡل ُک باَ ۡمر ٖہ و‬ ِ ِ ِ َ ُ َۡ ۡ ُ َّ​َ​َ َۡ ۡ َُۡ َۡ َ ۡ ُ ﴾۴۷﴿‫ل ِتبتغوا ِمن فض ِل ٖہ و لعلکم تشکرون‬ And among His Signs is this, that He sends the winds as bearers of glad tidings and that He may make you taste of His mercy, and that the ships may sail at His command, and that you may seek of His bounty, and that you may be grateful.

The Holy Qur'an 30:47

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The Promised Messiahas

“Do not consider this gathering to be the same as other ordinary, worldly gatherings. Rather the case of this is such, that it is founded upon the pure support of truth and the propagation of Islam. The foundation stone of this community has been laid by Allah Almighty Himself, and such nations have been prepared that will soon come and enter its fold. This is because it is the work of that All- Powerful Being, for Whom, nothing is impossible.”

An Announcement of the Promised Messiahas dated 7 December 1892

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Pearls of Wisdom Huzooraba's guidance

“Whilst offering duties, every duty worker, whether senior or junior, must continue to keep a smile on their faces, as I mentioned in my Friday Sermon. Always remember that you must continually manifest the highest moral standards and manners and continually focus on offering prayers. Continually remain engaged in the remembrance of Allah the Almighty. May Allah the Almighty enable all of you to fulfil your duties in an outstanding fashion. Ameen.”

Huzooraba's address at the Inspection of Jalsa Salana UK 2023 12

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Q&A with Huzooraba A Khadim asked His Holinessaba how a person can go from the spiritual level of Nafs-eLawwamah (the self-reproaching self), and attain the level of Nafs-e-Mutmainnah (the soul at peace) where a person attains freedom from committing evil.

His Holinessaba went on to explain that Allah has distinguished between good and evil and knows whether one will do good deeds or evil deeds but the ultimate choice rests with the person and Allah doesn’t force anyone either way.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba said:

“It cannot be achieved by inaction. Strive hard and battle with Satan as much as possible and increase in your good deeds. Seek the help of Allah. The spiritual battle that you must strive to wage in order to reach Nafs-e-Mutmainnah from Nafs-eLawwamah, you should try to win that as much as possible. A time should come when you are able to overcome Satanic influences. This cannot happen without the help of Allah and so you must seek His help. A person cannot attain anything just by mere effort, he must pray too. If you persistently strive and pray then the onslaughts of Satan will reduce and gradually one day you will completely overcome Satan and you will traverse towards God and only act upon what Allah and His Prophet desire. Then you shall attain the condition of being from amongst ‘the Prophets, the Truthful, the Martyrs, and the Righteous’.”

“Allah, the Almighty has not created anyone with the purpose of doing bad deeds. Allah, the Almighty does not put us into difficulty, rather, we inflict difficulties upon ourselves. Allah, the Almighty enjoins us to do virtuous deeds so that we do not fall into difficulty.”

Jalsa Insight Waqar-e-Amal Rolling up their sleeves and getting stuck in! It is all about Waqar-e-Amal – learning the worth of hands-on effort for the good of all.

His Holinessaba said that initially a person should try to win as many battles against Satan as possible whereby he overcomes his wrongful desires and inclinations whenever they arise so that eventually he is able to completely overcome evil desires.

The Waqar-e-Amal (lit. dignity of work) department establishes among the members of Majlis Khuddam-ul Ahmadiyya, the dignity of doing work with their own hands, and encourages the members to engage themselves in collective work for the benefit of the Jamaat and the wider community.

Virtual Mulaqat with Khuddam and Atfal from Finland - Feb 22 One questioner asked that if Allah knows what will happen in the future, why does he put people into hardship?

(Hazrat) Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba replied: “Allah, the Almighty has knowledge of what will happen to you but He has given you a choice.

Allah, the Almighty does not deliberately put one into hardship.”

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Report: The Annual National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema Sweden 10th & 11th of June, 2023 Yousef Waqf-E-Nau Secretary Sweden

Executive Summary By the Grace of Allah, the Annual National Ijtema of Waqfe Nau Sweden held on June 10th & 11th, 2023 at Mahmood Mosque, Malmö, Sweden was a remarkable gathering of the Waqfe nau members, their parents and many other guests. The Ijtema aimed to provide a platform for fostering physical, intellectual, educational, moral and spiritual training and advancements for

the members of the scheme. This report presents the key highlights, interesting competitions, notable presentations, and overall significance and impact of the ijtema.

The opening ceremony was chaired by Respected Amir Jama’at Sweden, Wasim Ahmad Zaffar sahib, while Respected Mubaligh Incharge Sweden, Agha Yahya Khan sahib was the invited speaker. Similarly,

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the prize distribution ceremony was chaired by Respected Amir Jama’at Sweden, Wasim Ahmad Zafar sahib.

Along with a large number of duty members, we had four judges who played a key role in the establishment of the standards, criteria of judgement and finally judging each and every competition. The names of the judges were Respected Rizwan Ahmad Afzal sahib, Respected

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Kashif Virk sahib, Respected Amer Munir Chaudhry sahib, Respected Atta Elahi Chaudhry sahib.

As would be expected, the preparation for the Ijtema began five months before the Ijtema, in January 2023. A series of meetings about each department, task were conducted. Alhamdulillah everyone in the team served tirelessly.

Tajneed & Attendance There are a total of 273 male and female Waqfe Nau life devotees in Sweden, by the Grace of Allah.

Message of our Beloved Huzur (may Allah be his Helper) The heart and the most blessed attraction of this year’s ijtema was without a doubt, the beautiful message that our Beloved Huzur, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) graciously sent for the Waqfe Nau Sweden to be read out at the Ijtema.

Although the message was read out loud by Respected Amir sahib Sweden in the prize distribution aka final ceremony, and translated by myself (National Secretary Waqfe Nau) in Urdu, upon Amir sahib’s instructions, I felt the need to mention about the message as the first thing in our Ijtema Report. Alhamdulillah.

Although, words cannot express the feelings everyone had while the message of our Beloved Huzooraba was read out, but I am certain that everyone sitting in that room left the Ijtema site with their hearts filled with extreme love of our Beloved Huzooraba and

a completely new passion to fulfil the pledge of Waqfe Nau. Plenary Sessions The ijtema featured a series of thought-provoking plenary sessions, led by esteemed professionals in the field. These sessions covered a diverse range of topics, including: 1.

Importance of Khilafat delivered by National Secretary Tarbiyat, Zaheer Ahmad Chaudhry sahib and National Secretary Talim ul Quran wa Waqfe Aarzi, Zulqifl Rashid sahib 2.

Moral Standards of a Waqfe Nau delivered by Sadr Khuddam ul Ahmadiyya, Kashif Virk sahib 3.

The Greater Cause, which was a faith inspiring session with a Waqfe Nau serving in the field delivered by Touqeer Ahmad Tanvir sahib, Central Department of Waqfe Nau, London, UK. Each session offered valuable insights, stimulating discussions, and engaging Q&A at the end.

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The Greater Cause Out of the plenary sessions held during the ijtema, I would highlight the session with Respected Touqeer Ahmad Tanvir sahib, a Jamia Ahmadiyya UK graduate, who has served in Wakalat Tamil-o-Tanfidh office for two years after graduating and serving at the Central Department of Waqfe Nau, London, UK, since 2019.

This session was also graciously approved by our Beloved Huzooraba to be held virtually and we got the opportunity to listen to the beautiful advice of our beloved brother, Touqeer sahib.

The session was held as the keynote for the second day of the Ijtema. Touqeer Sahib inspired us all by being a role model and highlighted the importance of devoting life and prioritising the service to jamaat over every other worldly matter. He referenced the verses of the Holy Quran, the Promised Messiahas and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (may Allah be his Helper) to showcase what

Ismael Magazine our Beloved Huzooraba demands from a Waqfe Nau and how can we fulfil that.

Academic Competitions A series of academic competitions were conducted before and during the Ijtema days to enhance the intellectual, spiritual and educational capabilities of the waqfe nau members.

The academic competitions brought together all the Waqifeen of different age groups and experts, as judges, in the fields of Tabligh and Spiritual Education.

These competitions explored the challenges, opportunities and the capabilities of an individual in the field of Tabligh and Tarbiyat. The competitions provided a platform for the Waqifeen and the rest of the audience to experience and learn the tough questions and diverse perspectives on contemporary issues faced in the society, within and outside Islam Ahmadiyyat.

It proved to be a learning-rich experience for everyone, resulting in dynamic conversations and the exchange of innovative ideas.

Issue 31 - 2023 Tabligh Challenge

Turn the Tables

The Tabligh Challenge was designed to increase the practical knowledge of the members in the field of Tabligh. This challenge had two rounds:

Turn the Tables competition was a new form of impromptu speech.

It was a form of debate between two or more teams on certain topics that were drawn by the teams on the spot from the topic bank.

1.

Video Round, where the members were given a question and they had to upload a 2 minutes long video answer to the given question. These videos were submitted a month before the ijtema.

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Live Round: Those who qualified in the video round, were given a chance to answer a set of different questions during the ijtema.

Waqfe Nau Constitution Challenge

The Waqfe Nau Constitution Challenge was designed to increase the understanding of the Waqfe Nau members about the standards of Waqf explained by our beloved Huzur (may Allah be his Helper).

The Waqifeen and Waqifat under the age of 15 had to take part in a team quiz with a series of scenario based questions. While the Waqifeen and Waqifat of age 15 and over had to prepare and deliver a seven minutes long pre s e nt at i on during the Ijtema.

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1. The participants will be divided into two or more teams.

2. Each team had to draw two topics, one to speak in favor and the other to speak against.

3. They were given 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to deliver.

Mushahida Muaina The purpose of this challenge was to enhance the observation skills of the Waqfe Nau members.

Sports Competitions Various sports competitions were held for every age group including short and long races, and football, for both boys and girls. Sports for boys were held outdoors while for girls were held in the Masroor Hall in the Mahmood Mosque, Malmö.

Ijtema Team There were primarily 21 different nazimeen, each with a few members in their team. It was a mix of Waqfe Nau and nonWaqfe Nau members. May Allah be pleased by all of them and their team members.

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Program for Waqifate Nau Girls

Networking and Brotherhood

By the Grace of Allah, the Ijtema was arranged for both the male Waqifeen e Nau and the female Waaqifaat-e-Nau members at the same time in the same building i.e.

Mahmood Mosque Malmö but in completely separate areas isolated from each other. This helped us provide equal opportunities for the female Waqifaat-e-Nau members so that they could conduct the event with ease at their own pace.

The Ijtema provided ample networking opportunities for Waqifeen-e-Nau and Waaqifaate-Nau to establish brotherhood and sisterhood, exploring new ideas of collaborations and learning how to become a true Waqfe Nau.

By the grace of Allah, Sadr Sahiba Lajna and Nigran sahiba Waaqifaat-e-Nau established a similar Ijtema team for our Waaqifaat-e-Nau members.

Feedback The overall feedback has been very positive. Mothers and participants both showed their enthusiasm and appreciated the efforts that were made by everyone and enjoyed the change of competitions. The sports event with unique games, letter-writing and crafts corner also received a positive response.

Significance and Impact The Ijtema played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and practice of Tabligh for the Waqfe Nau members, as well as enhancement in the moral standards of every participant. By bringing together the Waqfe Nau members, Missionaries, senior members of jamaat and a special guest from the Department of Central Waqfe Nau, the conference facilitated knowledge exchange highlighting the importance of Khilafat along with the duties of Waqfe Nau and their parents.

The attendees gained valuable insight to how they can enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of Tabligh and how a Waqfe Nau member can fulfil his or her duties towards Allah, his fellow beings and jamaat.

Jalsa Insight

From Atheism to Islam Ahmadiyyat Alexander Svensson, from Sweden, grew up having no concept of Allah.

Until a few years ago, he didn’t believe God existed but always wondered about the purpose of our existence.

He started reading the Bible and researching different faiths. He discovered Islam, which made the most sense. Alexander began to visit different mosques in Sweden, until he stumbled on Mahmood Mosque, the mosque of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Sweden. He didn’t know which sect was right and worthy of being followed, so he went along with his gut-feeling and kept coming back to Mahmood Mosque, where he felt most comfortable.

The Imam there was welcoming and asked him to attend the Jalsa Salana in the UK this year. During the international Bai’at, although he wasn’t planning to, he accepted the Jamaat and pledged allegiance to Khilafat. He had the opportunity to meet Huzooraba the next day, during which Huzooraba told him that it was his duty to spread the message of the Holy Quran to the Swedish people.

He also offered Zuhr prayers behind Huzoor... continued on page 33

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Waqf-e-Arzi Experience in Islamabad UK Jalsa 2023 Ibrahim Malik Jamia Canada Student

When I began travelling on the plane there was no USB port so I was not able to charge my phone.

After landing at 10:45am I was having bad stomach problems making it slightly difficult to travel.

However, despite deciding to begin travelling right away, I didn’t take a taxi or an Uber because it would cost over 100 pounds. I used google maps to tell me how to get to Islamabad, however, my battery was decreasing at an alarming rate because of a malfunction in one of the Iphone’s previous software updates. I took the trains I needed to take, turning aeroplane mode on and off to try and save battery life, and finally made it to the Tilford Train station.

Tilford road was unexpectedly large and despite my

best efforts, my phone was down to 3%. I just had to take one bus and then walk 15 minutes to reach Islamabad. To save what little battery life I had left, I just shut off my phone and waited at the bus stop.

However despite the bus being scheduled to show up it didn’t show up. Another person waiting there told me that it would show up anytime. However, I waited for over an hour starting from the time the bus was scheduled to arrive and there was still no sign of the bus showing up. Worried that it may never come, I just started walking to Islamabad. Although it would take hours, there was too little battery life on my phone to contact anyone or get an Uber. I felt very dirty as I was out for a long time and the weather was exceptionally hot that day. I just began reciting durood sharif and started walking. I walked for around 20-30 minutes and then the sidewalk ended.

Because of the narrow roads it would be easy to get run over if I walked on the roads so I had no choice but to quickly cross the road and go to a small patch of grass right beside the road. I sat there and tried to hitchhike for a ride. Many people saw me but there was no one who stopped. I waited there for around an hour and then I decided to turn on my phone and try to use what little battery life I had left to tell Murabbi Sahib I was stuck here and needed a ride.

My phone was on 1% and I tried texting Murabbi Sahib as fast as possible. However when I pressed send on the messages my phone immediately died and I was unaware if the message had been sent or not. Then I just put my suitcase and bag to the side

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and laid there for a couple minutes just praying and thinking of how I could find a way there. I still didn’t complain about my current situation, I thought that if my prayers didn’t get accepted then there’s no reason to complain as they were simply not worthy of acceptance. I was wondering what I was supposed to do and how I was supposed to charge my phone.

I decided that I should read Zuhr & Asr, then go ask random houses if they could charge my Iphone.

However, as soon as I was about to get up to read Zuhr & Asr, Murabbi Sahib and a Khadim came by in a car and found me. They drove me to Islamabad and I made it there around 17:00.

I was so worried on the first day as to what would happen when I would go near Huzooraba and many thoughts filled my head which made me enter a state of slight unease.

However, when I first went to the mosque for prayer behind Huzooraba, while waiting for Huzooraba's arrival the atmosphere was very calming and Mubarak Mosque was also quite beautiful. As soon as I saw Huzooraba for the first time walking in, instead of being nervous my mind was cleared and I got a little emotional. I forgot all about the journey to get there and I was in a state of satisfaction.

The atmosphere completely changed and praying behind Huzooraba was very peaceful. For the entire stay at Islamabad, I was in a happy state, it was a

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great privilege to be there. The Lentils and rice at langar was also incredible and some of the best I’ve ever had. I wouldn’t mind having to eat that Lentil curry every day for the rest of my life!

The cabin we stayed at in Islamabad was also very beneficial as workers from Islamabad and missionaries from Germany were close to us. This made it an excellent experience as I was able to befriend and learn from the German missionaries and hear stories of how Allah would help the workers.

One worker in particular was telling me about how before this he quit his previous job and would constantly pray that Allah would grant him a job where he could offer his Namaz (prayers) without issue. His gratefulness for Allah accepting his prayers and granting him a job as an Islamabad worker was very heartwarming and the people like this make Islamabad an excellent place with an extraordinary and unique atmosphere.

The German missionaries also gave helpful advice and were very friendly and hardworking. Working alongside them was a great privilege as I was able to see some of them who never ceased to keep a positive and friendly attitude despite working all day.

By the grace of Allah, we were also given the blessing of having a mulaqat with Huzooraba. Seeing Huzooraba very close up and talking with him made

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me feel much more comfortable in the presence of Huzooraba. Just the way Huzooraba would talk to us made me realise how kind and intelligent he is. All of us were smiling and happy in Huzooraba's office and after the mulaqat as well. Despite the fact that Huzooraba gets little sleep and works at the level of a superhuman, he showed much happiness and love.

When Jalsa days started approaching the rush and parking duties increased and there was much work. However, no matter how much work we got it practically felt like nothing since we would get to pray behind Huzooraba when off of duty. Praying behind Huzooraba in itself made all the duties that were given seem like nothing to me.

Even going 5 to 10 minutes early to prayer secured a seat in the third row behind Huzooraba or closer, which is a great privilege, especially since I got to do it every day aside from the Jalsa days.

On top of that, the brotherhood between the people on duty made the duties much easier. For the parking duty, we would direct cars through the rainy wet conditions. However, despite that the brothers we were on duty with made it a nice experience. One of the Missionaries from Jamia Ahmadiyya Germany I was doing parking duty with, was already there for over six hours when I arrived to assist him. Despite that, he was in a very cheerful mood and was giving me positive and helpful advice about Jamia and life in general. He was happy and although he must have been very tired, he showed no signs of weariness or dissatisfaction.

The security duty consisted of staying in one of the security stations for 8 hours.

However, it was no issue at all.

The people in charge were regularly asking if we needed anything and would bring food and water to us. They would also check in regularly and ask how we were doing.

to attend Jalsa Salana UK and participate in the international bai'at ceremony. Meeting people from all around the world who gathered for the same purpose was truly remarkable. Many people that came for Jalsa also came to Islamabad and I was able to hear their experiences even while on duty.

Staying in Islamabad for Waqf-e-Arzi felt completely unreal. It was a small, peaceful place and wellmaintained. By the end of the Waqf-e-Arzi I was looking much better, my skin was much clearer and I was also feeling incredible. I was feeling a little sad to have to leave Islamabad in the end. However the amount of spiritual benefit I was able to gain while staying there and focusing on spirituality was unlike anything else.

Jalsa Insight Talk to your children Addressing Lajna members of the UK, Huzooraba said: “Talk to your children every day and tell them those things that will bring them closer to Allah the Almighty and His Prophet (sa). As I have said many times before, it is essential that Ahmadi Muslim parents develop a genuine friendship and mutual trust with their children from the very beginning. Whilst this is the duty of both parents, it is especially incumbent on Ahmadi Muslim mothers to forge a loving and close bond with their children and to instil religious values within them. You should encourage your children to talk to you freely and openly. Children are naturally curious and it is the duty of a mother to answer their questions.”

Further, “When children return from school, they should find a peaceful and loving environment at home. If we look around ourselves, the reason many children go astray is because they are deprived of their parents’ love…They need attention, the like of which is not given by their parents.

The parents are occupied in the rat race of accumulating wealth, and in satisfying their own interests.”

— Speech: "Challenges Faced by Children in Schools and their Solutions" by Azhar Haneef SB., USA

By the grace of Allah we were also able

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Progress of the

Ahmadiyya

Muslim Community 2023

80,600

Total Number of Waqifeen-e-Nau

47,222 Boys 33,378 Girls 2600

New Waqifeen-e-Nau this year

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Why Muslims Pray Five Times a Day Originally published in Review of Religions Azhar Goraya Missionary - Mexico

If I told you to do anything five times a day, you’d probably start thinking of excuses not to do it or how you couldn’t do it.

But there are over a billion Muslims in the world who, five times a day, stand, incline and prostrate before Allah in their daily prayers.

These days, it seems less and less people are willing to live disciplined lifestyles. Islam teaches us that discipline and perseverance are necessary for spiritual advancement, whereas a mindset of instant gratification and laziness keep one far removed from high achievements.

Prayer is central to Islamic belief. Muslims are required to pray five times a day, known as Salat.

There is a process of physical purification before the prayer, where the hands, arms, face and other extremities are washed with water. The prayer itself consists of different physical postures alongside verbal prayers.

No other religious community shows such devotion to prayer. So, the question is, WHY do Muslims Pray five times a day?

Today I’ll give you five reasons why Muslims pray five times a day.

Number One: Religious Duty The Salat is one of the five pillars of Islam, or actions in Islam, and therefore, great emphasis is laid upon performing it. The Holy Qur’an, the religious book of Muslims, instructs Muslims to establish the prayer, and so to purposely abandon it is thus deemed as disobedience to God Almighty: َّ َ َ َ ْ َّ ُ ُ َ َ َّ َ َ َ ‫آن ال ْ َف ْجر ك‬ َ ‫آن ال ْ َف ْجر ۖ إ َّن ق ُ ْر‬ َ ‫الل ْيل َوق ُ ْر‬ ً ‫ان َم ْش ُه‬ ‫ودا‬ ِ ‫اقِ ِم الصلاة ل ِدل‬ ِ ِ ِ ِ ‫س إِل ٰى غس ِق‬ ِ ‫وك الشم‬ ‘Observe Prayer at the declining and paling of the sun on to the darkness of the night, and the recitation of the Qur’an in Prayer at dawn. Verily, the recitation of the Qur’an at dawn is especially acceptable to God.’ [i] The Prophet Muhammasa, the Founder of Islam, explained that as worshipping God is our primary objective, to abandon Salat knowingly would therefore be equivalent to disbelief. He said: َ َّ ُ ْ َ َ ْ ْ َ ْ ُ ْ َ ْ َ ‫الصلا ِة‬ ‫ان ترك‬ ِ ‫بين الكف ِر وال ِإيم‬

‘Between disbelief and faith is abandoning the Salat.’ [ii] Number Two: Love and Thankfulness The daily prayers are a way for a Muslim to show his thankfulness to Allah, and to get an opportunity to be in communion with Him.

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ُْ َ ُ ْ ُ َُْ َُْ ‫فاذك ُر ْونِ ْٓی اذك ْرك ْم َواشك ُر ْوا ل ِْٓى َولَا تكف ُر ْو ِن‬

‘Therefore remember Me, and I will remember you; and be thankful to Me and do not be ungrateful to Me.’ [iii] Muslims are taught to love Allah. Therefore, the prayers are not a burden, rather something that Muslims look forward to doing.

Number Three: Purification The Qur’an tells us that prayer refrains one from indecency and wrongful actions: َ َْ َْ ْ ْ َ َ َّ َّ ‫الصلَاة تن ٰهى َع ِن الف ْحشا ِء َوال ُمنك ِر‬ ‫إِن‬ ‘…Surely, Prayer restrains one from indecency and manifest evil…’ [iv] The purpose of our lives as Muslims is to grow closer to Allah, and sins impede that progress. The daily prayers purify Muslims and remove inclination to sin.

The Prophet Muhammadsa once asked his companions, ‘if there was a river flowing before your house and you bathed in it five times a day, would there remain any dirtiness upon you?’ They responded, ‘no’. He said that ‘this is the case of the five daily prayers’. Prayers purify an individual: Number Four: Spiritual Nourishment Prayers are like spiritual food. You cannot live without them, as it is through prayers that a person establishes and then re-establishes his connection with God. Just as our physical bodies need nourishment several times a day to stay strong, in the same way our souls need nourishment several times a day to keep strong. This spiritual nourishment is obtained through daily prayers.

Issue 31 - 2023 different stages of each day.

The first stage is at a time where a person comes to know of a problem that he must face, and his happiness begins to decline. For example, when he receives a summons to appear before a judge. He begins to worry and automatically begins to search for reassurance and a way to be secure from his problem. This is represented by the prayer known as Zuhr, as it is offered after the sun begins to set from its zenith.

Likewise, the next three prayers (Asr, Maghrib and Isha) represent further states of anxiety coinciding with the declining of the sun, that can be compared to the same person being presented in court, declared as guilty and ultimately being thrown in jail. The final stage is like the time when a person is finally released from jail, and his happiness knows no end. This state is represented by the Fajr prayer, which is offered at the coming of the dawn.

The five daily prayers represent our natural states of fear and necessity in life, and the prayers remind us that in every stage, we must turn to God for solace and salvation from our problems. [i]The Holy Qur’an 17:79. [ii]Sahih Muslim. [iii]The Holy Qur’an 2:153. [iv]The Holy Qur’an, 29:46. https://www.reviewofreligions.org/20026/whymuslims-pray-5-times-a-day/

Number Five: It Comes Naturally The Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas explained that the five daily prayers are a demonstration of the five states that come over a person in life after which he naturally turns to God. They reflect the condition of a person during

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

My name is Afaq Ahmad. I am Waqfe-nau and Waqf-e-Zindagi serving at Markaz IT department UK. I did BSc (Hons) Computer science in London.

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In the Spotlight A day in the life of Waqf Afaq Ahmad Markaz IT Department

What were the events leading upto your Waqf being approved by Khalifatul-Masih Vaba?

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

My parents wrote a letter to Khalifa tul Masih IVrh to dedicate their child in blessed Waqf-e-Nau scheme.

I was born in Pakistan and one time a Murrabi Sahib asked me that I am waqf-e-nau and how I wanted to serve the Jama'at? At that time, I didn’t have any answer but he told me to study and get experience in a field which is beneficial for the Jama'at. My father went to serve for 3 years in Sierra Leone under the Nusrat Jahan scheme. There are some Murrabian and Waqifeen-e-Zindagi in our family who always motivate me.

I moved to UK and studied “BSc (Hons) Computer Science”. When I started University, I met a “Waqfe-Zindagi” (from our local Jama'at region) who introduced me to work voluntarily in Bait ul Futuh in the IT department. I agreed and started a volunteer role in IT. I learned about networking and server administration which helped me in my studies as well. When I was in my third year, I received a call from Markaz IT department UK and they asked me, if I am ready to do Waqf after finishing my University or not? I replied “Yes” and Alhamdulliah, I am working in the Markaz IT Department UK. Is there anyone who specifically inspired you?

While doing my studies, I worked voluntarily in different Jama'at roles. I met many people who were working in big roles (outside the Jama'at) and they were doing minor tasks in the Jama'at (like cleaning).

They never felt hesitation or they never said that the jama'at role is not according to their standard.

I was also inspired by my father as he works for the

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Issue 31 - 2023 is “Pray”. Then write a letter to Huzooraba seeking guidance.

What are three things you love about your Waqf?

Number 1 - Khalifatul Masih always prays for Waqifeen-e-Zindagi.

Number 2 – you get to pray a majority of your prayers in congregation Number 3 – Serve the Jama'at and become more close to Allah and good for future generations

Jama'at. This inspired me to work for the Jama'at.

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

From the start, I wanted to serve the Jama'at in any position and by the grace of Allah, my qualification became useful for the Jama'at and I started to work in the Makraz IT Department UK. Markaz departments are under direct guidance of Khalifatul Masih. This motivated me to learn new things which are beneficial to the Jama'at and the department.

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

When anyone wants to dedicate their life then they need to sacrifice many worldly things (like wealth or give more time to Jamaat). But they will gain many things (spiritually). There is Hadith, Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsa said: Allah says: When a servant of Mine advances towards Me a foot, I advance towards him a yard, and when he advances towards Me a yard, I advance toward him the length of his arms spread out. When he comes to Me walking, I go to him running. (Bukhari) How important would you say are your earlier studies (Secondary School and University) in counting towards your ability to do Waqf?

Education plays a big role if you study in university.

Please choose a subject which is beneficial to the Jama'at. If anyone is planning to dedicate their life to the Jama'at then the first thing they need to do

How are you still keeping in touch with KhalifatulMasih Vaba with regards to your Waqf?

Write a letter to Huzooraba regularly.

Describe your daily routine? a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h.

5 daily prayers Read Quran Jamaati Office Note down the daily tasks Provide Technical Support (IT Support) Spend time with family Work on daily tasks on allocated project.

Work 6 days a week

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-e-Nau who will be posted far away from Markaz or their families?

When you serve the Jama'at then you don’t need to think about where you are posted (be it near or away from Khalifatul Masih). There will be blessings whereever you are posted. If you do your duty properly then you will be rewarded from Allah, Insha’Allah.

Please share a story or event you had with KhalifatulMasih Vaba?

One time Huzooraba was doing an inspection at Tahir House (London). Huzooraba arrived on first floor and then he entered in our office. He asked me to explain about few things about network monitoring tool which we displayed on screen. I was so happy to see Huzooraba and He was asking me questions and his presence was very inspiring to me. Alhamdolillah that day I got a chance to show Huzooraba my skills and serve Jama'at.

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Jalsa Insight

Monthly Report Waqf-E-Nau Indonesia National Secretary

French-Moroccon's journey to finding Islam through Ahmadiyyat

Ahmad Abdurrahman

Meet Landwerlin Mehdi, a French-Moroccan Ahmadi Muslim. His mother was a Moroccan Sunni, and although he always identified as a Muslim, he knew little of Islam.

National Secretary Waqf-e-Nau

When he was around 14 years old, he grew curious about his faith and decided to search for the reality of his faith. He went online and started researching about Islam, specifically Sunni Islam. But he wasn’t satisfied.

During his search, he found Islam Ahmadiyyat and began to watch videos of the Jamaat and after discovering the Jamaat’s French website, he also started reading.

The Islamic teachings of tolerance and humanity deeply impressed him. Whereas earlier, he could not understand some aspects of Islam, he says he found answers in the teachings of the Promised Messiahas

We held our Waqf-e-Nau Parents Day Offline on the 18th June 2023 in Markaz, for DKI Jakarta, Markaz, West Java 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, and Banten 1, 2.

Total attandance was 570. The theme for the Waqfe-Nau Parents Day Offline was ''The Waqf-e-Nau Promise: What are the Roles and Responsibilities of Parents?'' This theme was in accordance to the theme of the seminar as instructed by Huzooraba, “The Roles and Responsibilities of Waqf-e-Nau Parents.

After accepting Ahmadiyyat in 2020, he says he is content with all the teachings of Islam and Ahmadiyyat. Whereas before, he would pray and read the Quran periodically, he started praying intently and regularly.

We then had a visit and meeting with the Regional Secretary and Local Secretary of West Java 7 & 8 Region on 25th June 2023 in Nagrak. the Total attandance was 16 participants. The Agenda of this meeting was the evaluation work program for Regional Secretaries and Local Secretaries.

Jalsa Germany is giving him the opportunity to see Huzoor for the first time in person and he says he is incredibly happy.

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May we never be of those who “Bid Farewell” Jalsa Journey Atta-Ul-Hadi Doctor - Australia

I have had a long desire to attend Jalsa Salana UK but being from the other part of the world, the land down under, it’s a rather complex mission that requires all dots aligned and some advanced planning.

In December 2022 I had finally completed my 10 years streak of tertiary education in Australia, finally started working fulltime (hence I anticipated having funds and possibly leave to be able to make the trip) and so I thought 2023 was going to be the year it all comes together. The excitement was building up. Without looking at the finer details, I made the intention, applied for leave at the start of the year (when you are an Intern doctor at the state’s busiest hospital, leave is a luxury you truly learn to value) and started anticipating rather anxiously.

I was initially planning the visit together with my wife who was as excited and anticipating but life threw some curve balls preventing us to travel to Jalsa together. I have been really keen to see Huzoor-e-Anwaraba since my last group Mulaqat in January 2020 when I as a part of the ‘Waqf-e-Nau Australia Trip to UK’ I had the blessed opportunity of directly speaking to beloved Huzooraba. It was this interaction as a student having completed first year of my medical course that I couldn’t wait to meet Huzoor again. When I introduced myself to my beloved Huzoor and noted that I was now a second-year student of Doctor of Medicine Huzoor expressed his pleasure but then also said something

that shook me. He said, “so what’s your plan? Are you going to act upon your waqf or you’re going to bid us farewell” before adding “once they become doctors, they say good bye to us”. I felt an immediate pain that there has been someone so unfortunate to be the cause of this thought/worry coming to my beloved Huzoor’s mind. I could not hold myself back and said, “Huzoor, I have a strong desire to carry on with my Waqf (given I am Waqf-e-nau)”. I was not composed enough to tell him that the sole reason I was doing medicine was for my waqf, that I would leave medicine in a heartbeat if that’s what Huzoore-Anwaraba would ask of me. It was then that the next few words that Huzoor whispered in that moment that I have been able to reap the blessings that I have.

Huzoor-e-Anwaraba in that moment took a pause, and prayed that “May Allah bless you”.

And that was it. A life changing interaction. Not only because I became recipient of the blessed prayer of my beloved, but also the resolve in my heart that I never want to let my beloved Huzooraba down.

The trip ended and we left Islamabad not knowing when will it be possible for us to make the trip again and little did we know what’s around the corner.

Within a matter of weeks COVID-19 changed the global dynamics and Australia had one of the strongest border restrictions in place for long months. Finally, when the border restrictions lifted,

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Ismael Magazine the backlog of Australians returning home, COVID19’s impact on global aviation sector and the life of a poor medical student all made it impossible for me to come and meet Huzoor. The fire inside me was burning still. Perhaps stronger than ever. More so because I wanted to meet Huzoor and tell him that I am now a fully qualified doctor, and I have not run away. I am more passionate than ever to serve under the flag of Ahmadiyya. Perhaps a tiny bit more worthy of serving too.

Issue 31 - 2023 and Huzoor-e-Anwar’saba even busier schedule in these days. The gentleman on the other end once told me that they could even facilitate many Mulaqat requests for families from US/Canada and had been turning them down. As my travel time was approaching the doubts of not being able to have a Mulaqat that I was entertaining from the beginning became stronger, but I kept praying and calling up the office of Private Secretary Sahib to request if any spots have opened. The response was in negative.

But as I started looking for tickets and arranging the Then came the day I took my flight, it was still a trip for myself and wife, I was shocked to find out the bit bitter sweet given I had no confirmation of my sky-high prices of tickets. I crunched some numbers mulaqat and there were very little chances It will and figured it would probably not be possible to happen. At that time I remembered how the prayers come and see Huzoor-e-Anwaraba yet again. My of a traveller are more so accepted. I tried to engage in previous plans were ruined by COVID-19, then Durood Sharif constantly thinking of a miracle that gruelling routine of a medical student and this time might make my mulaqat possible. And that miracle inflation. I parked my feelings in the corner of my came thorough as I completed the second leg of the heart somewhere, and carried on journey and landed in Shanghai life with the new reality that I am for transit when I got the best Huzoor-e-Anwar (aba) not going to UK this year. news I had heard in a long time prompty instructed me to that my Mulaqat with Huzoorgo Rabwah before saying But Allah the Almighty had a e-Anwaraba had been confirmed with a chuckle “let’s first different plans for me. That strong for two days later. I can’t put to wish in my heart became a strong words what my feelings were at see if you can make do/ prayer and was answered in a the time. manage there”. With a way I could not have imagined. smile I submitted that Just about 4 weeks before Jalsa, a Now as I embarked on my third “Huzoor, I will make do new spontaneous vigour to find a and final flight, I was beaming way to go to Jalsa and be able to with excitement. As I travelled with wherever it is that meet Huzoor led to all pieces of through various time zones I you will send me”. the puzzle falling together which was timing my sleep so when I given my circumstances was no land at 6am on Sunday 16th July less than a miracle for me.

2023 I am ready to go, to make the most out of the day.

Once everything was in order, I wrote my request to beloved Huzooraba for a private meeting (Mulaqat). I was received at Gatwick airport by the lovely But it was always at the back of my mind that it very khuddam who were just then setting up the hospitality well may not happen given that I was arriving in stall who arranged for my transport to Baitul Futuh UK 5 days before Jalsa and had to leave the next day to finally witness in person the iconic new Baitul (thanks to the ~40hr journey each way). But putting Futuh complex with the beautiful Islamic mosaic. my faith in Allah, I kept trying by calling the Private That was the moment when I couldn’t hold back and Secretary Sahib’s office every few days to ensure my had to say “MashAllah” and “Alhamdulillah”. application is progressing and necessary verifications are being returned to Markaz in time. The week I was also very fortunate to have put my name down before I was supposed to travel, I continued to make for Waqf-e-Arzi for the Jalsa Salana UK preparation calls to the Office of private secretary and got told that was being organized under MKA UK. Touqeer that there is essentially no way a Mulaqat could be Sahib, Murabbi-e-Silsila had been the God-sent to arranged given that I was arriving so close to Jalsa liaise and organize all of that for me who also very

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kindly offered to take me to Hadeeqatul Mahdi, which is where I was to stay for the rest of the trip. There I was joined by brothers from Spain, Finland, Germany and all across UK who had come to play their tiny roles in helping with the Jalsa prep. If you have not been to Jalsa UK before, it is really hard to truly appreciate not only the sheer scale of the setup but also the amount of work that goes in to make it work. It really is well and truly mind boggling (these were not just my feelings, but also the feelings of my non-Ahmadi tabligh guest who was visiting from Wolverhampton attending Jalsa for the first time and couldn’t really believe how something like this could be pulled off).

That very first day I was lucky to catch a close glimpse of Huzoor-e-Anwaraba at the ‘Special dinner with volunteers’ right after the Jalsa Salana Inspection.

Since we were given the opportunity to serve on the tables up front, I was lucky enough to be able to see Huzoor-e-Anwaraba from a very close distance, which was a real treat.

Next day, 17th July 2023 (Monday) was the day of my mulaqat and I got to Islamabad super early around 11pm to take my time to get ready, to be able to offer Zuhr and Asr prayers behind Huzoor-eAnwaraba and to really calm my nerve before I present myself to our beloved, holy and loving Master. As I am recounting this the whole day is flashing right before my eyes, that’s how vivid the memories of that special day are.

Comes the big moment as I was waiting right outside the office of Huzoor-e-Anwaraba waiting to be called the excitement and the nervousness was all peaking and as I got the green light to enter the room, I see Huzoor-e-Anwaraba looking right at me, smiling.

It felt like the time had stopped. Nothing is going through my mind, I developed a tunnel vision and a different kind of peace overtakes as Huzoor lovingly says “Come Doctor Ata Ul Hadi”. At first Huzoore-Anwaraba couldn’t really believe that I am really a medical doctor so he asked me this a couple of times re-phrasing to make sure he’s got it right (must be my baby face that Huzoor could see through the mask). I humbly submitted, “Yes Huzoor, I just graduated last year”. Huzoor-e-Anwar aba then asked me about my

father’s name and soon asked me to take my mask off so he could see my face. I couldn’t believe this was happening and really could not smiling. I was then able to seek Huzoor-e-Anwar’saba guidance regarding where I should go for Waqf-e-Arzi being a Waqf-eNau doctor. To which Huzoor-e-Anwaraba prompty instructed me to go Rabwah before saying with a chuckle “let’s first see if you can make do/manage there”. With a smile I submitted that “Huzoor, I will make do with wherever it is that you will send me”.

Then I also sought Huzoor-e-Anwar’saba guidance regarding pursuing a speciality training. Huzoor asked me back if I had any specific interests (I had not fixated on anything up until this point because I wanted Huzoor-e-Anwaraba to make that call for me)? Though I was leaning more towards surgical side of medicine I said to Huzoor-e-Anwaraba that “No, Huzoor. Whatever you will choose for me”.

Then Huzoor replied “Let’s do cardiology then” and just as I had managed to submit “G thek hai Huzoor” he followed up to ask again “is that ok?” “do you have any other interests?”. I re-affirmed with “no Huzoor, I just want to do whatever would be beneficial for Jama’at”. At that Huzoor-e-Anwaraba then replied “alright, then do cardiology.”

Huzoor-e-Anwaraba then called me over to get the photo taken and after that I gathered enough courage to speak once more and requested Huzoore-Anwaraba to pray for my wife. At that, Huzoor-e-

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Anwaraba enquired if I was married? I said “yes Huzoor, when I met you in Dec 2018, you had guided me to marry after 2 years”. Huzoor said so then you had married after 2 years? At my reply in the affirmative Huzoor-e-Anwaraba prayed for my marriage to be blessed.

And just like that the Mulaqat ended I couldn’t stop smiling for the rest of the day.

The next few days we would wake up super early to go and offer Fajr prayer behind Huzoor-eAnwaraba in Islamabad. Come back to Hadeeqatul Mahdi to catch some sleep before starting our day long Waqar-e-Amals. I had come from 17,000 kms away and there was no way I missing on opportunities to be able to offer prayers behind Huzoor-e-Anwaraba. So some days we would end up going to Islamabad for Zuhr Asr and/or Maghrib Isha prayers as well. Prayers behind Huzoor-eAnwaraba hits different. For those who have had the blessed experience know this.

Check out Doctor Atta-ul-Hadi’s Interview at Jalsa Salana UK 2023

This feeding of the soul continued during Jalsa days being able to listen to Huzoor-e-Anwar’saba addresses and partaking in the international bai'at ceremony.

As the Jalsa came to close, and the sadness of Jalsa coming to a close started to set-in with Huzoor-eAnwar'saba departure for Islamabad after leading the Isha prayers on 23th July 2023 at Hadeeqatul Mahdi, I thought I should also probably spend my final night in UK at the mosque in Crawley for 1, to help cope with the Jalsa blues, and 2, to assist with my departure next day to the 40 hour or so and 3 flights to reach back home.

It is my heartfelt prayer that May none of us ever become one of those unfortunate ones who “bid farewell” or “say goodbye”. May we all continue to improve ourselves to become worthy of fulfilling the duty of being a Waqf, and May our Khalifa always be pleased with us. Ameen

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Jalsa Insight

Ismael Magazine

Issue 31 - 2023

Abid Khan Sahib’s Diary From doubts, to faith in Islam

Jalsa Salana UK 2018 Abid Khan Sahib

Kubilay's journey with Islam took a transformative turn when he was a teenager after reading a book by a mufti that initially shook his faith. He contemplated leaving Islam altogether.

Press Secretary - Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

But fate had other plans for him.

During his lowest moment, he crossed paths with Ahmadi Missionary Rashid Sahib in Turkey, who had only recently arrived and struggled with the Turkish language.

(Only small portions of the diaries written by Abid Waheed Khan Sahib are included in Ismael.

Readers are encouraged to go to https://www. pressahmadiyya.com/personal-accounts/

In their conversation, Rashid Sahib passionately shared the beauty of Islam and persuaded Kubilay to reconsider his decision. They went their separate ways for a few years, but their meeting left a lasting impact.

During the period of the Fifth Khilafat, Ahmadiyyat has spread much more amongst the Arab people.

Thousands of Arab Ahmadis have accepted the Promised Messiah (as) during the past fifteen years.

Whilst thousands have joined and continued to increase in faith, it is also true that a handful of Arabs have left the Jamaat in recent years.

When they reunited, Rashid Sahib couldn't help but ask if Kubilay had stayed true to Islam. Kubilay's response was heartwarming.

He recounted how, after their initial conversation, he rushed home, tore apart the mufti's book, and embraced Islam wholeheartedly.

What makes Kubilay's story even more inspiring is his subsequent acceptance of Ahmadiyyat. He became a pioneering convert in the Ahmadiyya community and played a crucial role in introducing many Muslims to the beauty of Islam Ahmadiyyat.

His journey is a testament to the power of faith and the profound impact one individual can have on another's spiritual path.

As I spoke to the three Arab ladies, I realised this was a cause of great distress amongst sincere Arab Ahmadis. However, if anything, it had served to increase their faith in the truth of Ahmadiyyat.

Manal Odeh sahiba said: “One or two people may have departed from the Jamaat but the vast majority of Arab Ahmadi Muslims are completely firm in their faith and know that without Ahmadiyyat and without Khilafat we are nothing. Without our faith we are dead. When I see that a few people have left it has actually increased my faith and I feel as though now Allah the Almighty is purifying the Jamaat so that only the sincere are left amongst the fold of the Promised Messiah (as).”

Manal Odeh sahiba continued: “If occasionally an Ahmadi loses his faith it hurts,

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Ismael Magazine especially if you have known that person but our faith teaches us how to respond to such issues. It is our duty to increase in our worship of Allah and that is what I have seen amongst the Arab Ahmadis over the past few years. It has motivated us to increase our prayers and to increase our attachment to the Jamaat of the Promised Messiahas.”

Nadia Shabooti sahiba said: “If any Ahmadi, whether Arab or not, ever has any doubt or weakens in faith, I say to them that just look at Huzoor. He is the one we have taken Bai’at from and he has all the moral qualities that a person should have. No one can act so purely and honestly for their entire life and never stumble or show some weaknesses unless they have the direct support of Allah the Almighty.”

Kholoud Safir sahiba said: “If some people leave Ahmadiyyat then it is merely a case of history repeating itself. We saw over a hundred years ago how the Lahoris split away and how the true Jamaat of the Promised Messiah (as) did not suffer in any way but went from strength to strength! In nature, sometimes the weak plants have to be removed in order for the stronger plants to grow and I believe the same is true with our Jamaat.

If a few weaken in faith, it means that the Jamaat overall will become purer and stronger.”

It had been fascinating to hear the reflections of the Arab Ahmadi ladies and to see how firm they were in their faith. They had seen what Ahmadiyyat had given them and how it blessed their lives and were witnesses to the truth of the Promised Messiah (as).

Issue 31 - 2023 a man of God.” Akere Abdul-Hafeez said: “I received my first glimpse of Huzoor a few days ago at the Asr prayer and it was a life changing moment and that prayer was a life changing prayer.

Then, we were so lucky that Huzoor met us at Jamia Ahmadiyya UK and we even had the chance to shake his hand. As I met Huzoor, I felt a spirituality unlike anything I have ever felt before.”

Akere Abdul-Hafeez continued: “When Jamia Ahmadiyya International was opened in 2012 it was a great illustration of Huzoor’s vision for Africa. It proves that he continues to be the father of Africa! And the love the African people have for Khalifatul Masih is immeasurable. After hearing that I was going to meet Huzoor, countless people came up to me and said, ‘Please just say our name once to Huzoor and we know that all our problems will be solved and that our lives and futures will be blessed forever’.”

Telling me about his one previous visit to London, Soro Allasane said: “I came once before to the Jalsa UK in 2016 and when I went back to Ghana all my friends and classmates came running to greet me and they were all competing with each other trying to be the first to meet me. They kept saying ‘You met Huzoor and so we want to be the first one to meet you and to gain the blessings that you have received in London’.”

Jalsa Insight

Emotions of Ahmadis

continued from page 17

Shortly after, I met the three graduates of Jamia Ahmadiyya International in Ghana who had come for the UK Jalsa Salana and who Huzoor had spoken to during the Jalsa inspection a few days before.

They were Mussa Ibn Issa (28) from Tanzania, Akere Abdul-Hafeez (26) from Nigeria and Soro Allasane (27) from Ivory Coast.

...He says that with an indescribable clarity, he felt that Allah had led him to this very moment, and that He had been with him his whole life.

After returning to Sweden, he wanted to attend the Jalsa Salana in Germany as well to further enhance his spiritual experience, as he deeply values a personal relationship with Allah.

Mussa ibn Issa said: “The moment I saw Huzoor for the first time I felt as though I had entered heaven. I have never seen such a blessed personality before in my life and now I have seen with my own eyes what others had tried to explain to me. Khilafat is truth and Huzoor is truly

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Issue 31 - 2023

Report 5th National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema Australia 2023 Atta-Ul-Awwal Secretary Waqf-E-Nau - Australia

Preparations: The initial meeting convened with Ameer Sahib to deliberate on the Ijtema's location and logistics.

Ataul Awal Nasir Ahmad, National Sec. Waqfe Nau and Nazim-e-Ala, wrote a letter to Huzoor-e-Anwar (aba) seeking prayers for a successful Ijtema. Nazime-Ala then appointed nazimeen for the event, securing approval for the Baitul Huda Mosque as the venue.

Introduction The 5th National Waqfe Nau Ijtema was held from 19th to 20th August 2023, was a resounding success and a truly blessed event. This annual gathering brought together members of the Waqfe Nau scheme (aged 15 years and above), those who have dedicated their lives for the service of Islam. The Ijtema provided a platform for spiritual growth, academic enrichment, physical activity, and intellectual growth.

On August 2nd, an online committee gathering was held, commencing with prayers and outline of departmental expectations overview. Committee members received the list, with Ataul Awar Nasir Sahib offering additional guidance. Emphasis was placed on punctuality and seeking Huzoor e Anwar (aba) prayers as well as ensuring duties were carried out diligently.

Ijtema Outline

A second nazimeen meeting on August 14th delved into specific departmental details and challenges.

The program's rundown and individual roles were elucidated. Nazim-e-Ala engaged in multiple meetings with Naib Nazime-Ala’s and Nazimeen to fine-tune preparations.

The 5th National Waqfe Nau Ijtema featured a comprehensive program that encompassed a wide range of activities, including academic competitions, workshops, sports competitions, a special bonfire BBQ dinner, and a class with the Respected Ameer Sahib.

Interstate Waqifeen-e-Nau, their lodging was arranged at Jama'at properties in Sydney. Adaptations were made as more Waqifeen-e-Nau registered, with Nazim transport/accommodation collaborating closely to ensure their smooth transportation and accommodation.

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WAQIFEEN-E-NAU

We welcome all Waqifeen-e-Nau to volunteer for Ismael magazine and join our editorial team ARTICLE WRITERS, PROOFREADERS, DESIGNERS, SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM Contact: editorenglish@ismaelmagazine.org 35

Issue 31 - 2023