Summer • 2 0 10 $4.00

“In the latter days, the sun shall rise from the west” • Holy (Peace and blessings of Allah be on him)

Zion, Illinois A coincidence, or did the Hand of God touch this midwestern town?

10 Dr. John 18 Alexander 20 Christian 28 What Does Alexander Dowie: An Russell Webb, Missions flourish Jihad Really Mean? American Experiment An American Who in 19th Century A Misunderstood in Christian Utopia Embraced British Concept The Muslim Community

he Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a religious organization, international in its scope, with branches in 189 countries in TAfrica, North America, South America, Asia, Australasia, and Europe. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community was established in 1889 by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas (1835-1908) in , a small and remote village in the Punjabi province of India. He claimed to be the expected reformer of the latter days, the Awaited One of the world community of (The and Messiah). The Movement he started is an embodiment of the benevolent message of Islam – peace, universal brotherhood, and submission to of God – in its pristine purity. Hadhrat Ahmadas proclaimed Islam as the of man: “The religion of the people of the right path” (98:6).The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community was created under divine guidance with the objective to rejuvenate Islamic moral and spiritual values. It encourages interfaith dialogue, diligently defends Islam and tries to correct misunderstandings about Islam in the West. It advocates peace, tolerance, love and understanding among followers of different faiths. It firmly believes in and acts upon the Qur’anic teaching: “There is no compulsion in religion” (2:257). It strongly rejects violence and terrorism in any form and for any reason.

After the passing of its founder, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has been headed by his elected successors. The present Head of the Community, Hadhrat , was elected in 2003. His official title is Khalifatul Masih V or Fifth Successor of the Promised Messiah.. (1835-1908)

Editor Editor's Notes: Falahud Din Shams The Muslim Sunrise is published by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, USA, 15000 Good Hope Road, Silver Spring, MD 20905, Phone 301.879.0110, Fax 301.879.0115, under the auspices of Dr. Ahsanullah Zafar, Ameer and National Editorial Board President. The views and opinions expressed by individual contributers in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Imam Mubasher Ahmad Community, USA. Dr. Shanaz Butt Hasan Hakeem The Muslim Sunrise welcomes letters to the editor, questions and submissions. Email Sadar Anees Ahmad us at [email protected] or go online to www.MuslimSunrise.com. Library of Congress Call Number BP195.A5 M8

Mailing Address: The Muslim Sunrise, 2 S 510 Route 53, Glen Ellyn, IL Staff Editors 60137, Phone: (630) 790-4100, ext. 206, Fax: (630) 793-4100. Maham Khan Atif Mir Muslims follow the name of God’s with the prayer alaehis salaam or Naser Shams ‘may peace be upon him,’ and for the Holy Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu alaehi wasallam or ‘may peace and blessings of God be upon him.’ Companions of prophets and righteous personalities who have passed away are saluted by Staff Writers radhi-Allaho anhu/a or ‘may Allah be pleased with him/her.” While such salutations are not set out in the text for readability, we encourage readers to Lubna Malik offer these prayers as if set out in full. Dr. Zia H. Shah Shazia Sohail Dr. (1872-1957) was the first Ahmadiyya Muslim missionary to arrive in America. In 1921, he founded the Muslim Sunrise, which stands today as the longest running Muslim publication in America. The magazine seeks to open Hasan Hakeem, Design/Layout discussions on Islam and topics relating to religion in general. It highlights the role Shuaib Shams, Circulation of Islam in an ever changing global society. It provides a platform for public opinion on contemporary issues and presenting their solutions from an Islamic perspective.

www.muslimsunrise.com

2 MuslimSunrise Muslims who believe in the Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, QadianiAS In This Issue Features

10 Dr. John Alexander Dowie An American experiment in Christian utopia Summer 2 0 10 • Volume 90 • Issue 2

15 Islam in Early America The experiences of a pioneer Muslim missionary News, Views and Reviews 18 Alexander Russell Webb An American who embraced Islam 23 BBC Documentary Review Did Jesus Die? 20 Christian Missions in India The strategy to proselytize British India 24 PBS Documentary Review From Jesus to Christ: the early Christians 28 What Does Jihad Really Mean? Explaining a misunderstood and misapplied concept 34 Press Publications 30 Western Influence on Indian Muslim Thought Minaret and hijab bans 19th century cultural and philosophical impact on Islam 35 Viewpoint 40 Chinks in the Muslim Ideological Armor Islam and Muslims should not scare you The unjustifiable act of terrorism

43 Finding God in Light of the Messiah’s Writings 36 Book Review Quenching one’s thirst for spiritual knowledge Among the Dervishes by O.M. Burke

37 Book Review Departments Jesus, Interrupted by Bart Ehrman

5 Opening Commentary 45 Perspectives Coming to America, Lessons Learned 6 Editorial

7 Friday Sermon For More Information on Facing opposition in the way of God Islam/Amadiyyat:

33 From the Archives 1922 Alislam.org or The message of Islam 1.800.WHY.ISLAM

SUMMER 2010 3 From the Holy Qur'an Chapter 60, (As Saff), Verses 9:10

[61:9] They desire to extinguish the light of Allah with the breath of their mouths, but Allah will perfect His light, even if the disbelievers hate it.

[61:10] He it is Who has sent His Messenger with the guidance and the Religion of truth, that He may cause it to prevail over all religions, even if those who associate partners with God hate it.

4 MuslimSunrise In the Words of the Promised Messiah

he second time when the reality of the Messiah; this is the soul of Jesus was exactly what happened. agitated was when the This also explains why the Mes- Christians completely siah was chosen for this purpose Tassumed the qualities of the instead of Mosesas, Abrahamas or Antichrist, and, as predicted, the Davidas. On account of the current Antichrist would lay claim to both troubles, it was only the advent of and Godhood. This the Messiah that was called for. It is exactly what these people did. was his people who had been cor- They claimed prophethood by rupted and among whom the quali- interfering with the divine word and ties of the Antichrist had spread. framing regulations and carrying Therefore, it was only proper that the out changes that were the functions soul of Jesus should have been agi- of a prophet. tated. This is the subtle spiritual They established what they comprehension that has been be- Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) wished, and invented doctrines and stowed upon me through a vision. It modes of worship and intervened has also been disclosed to me that, so freely as if they had been com- God or God’s decree. According to them, after a time of piety and purity and manded to do so by divine revelation. when the system of physical causation is the supremacy of divine unity, the Such unwarranted interference with completely understood these ‘false’ notions world will again return to polytheism divine scriptures amount to claiming would automatically disappear.... Thus, in and transgression. Some will devour prophethood. And they claimed this age the soul of Jesus was agitated a others like insects, ignorance will pre- Godhead in the sense that their phi- second time and longed for his substitute vail, Jesusas will be worshipped once losophers and thinkers designed to as- to appear in the world. again, and the error of creature-wor- sume all the functions of Godhead. When this desire reached its climax, God ship will be widespread. All this mis- Their plans testify to their intents. Almighty raised one who was his spiritual chief will proceed out of Christianity For instance they are planning night reflection to defeat the Antichrist of this in the last part of these latter days. and day to bring down the rain on their age. That substitute is called the Promised Then again the soul of Jesusas will be own, and control births by conveying Messiah, inasmuch as the reality of the greatly troubled and will seek its de- the male sperm by means of some in- Messiah is incarnated in him, i.e., the real- scent in a majestic form. Then, with strument to the womb of a woman. ity of the Messiah was united with him and the advent of an awe-striking sem- They believe that divine decree has no he appeared in consequence of the demand blance of his, this age will come to an meaning, and assert that it is only the of the soul of Jesusas. end. That will be the end and the ex- failure of a project by some mistake That reality is reflected in him like a re- panse of the world will be rolled up. which is taken to as divine decree. flection in a mirror. As he has appeared in This shows that on account of the un- They think that whatever is attrib- consequence of the agitation of the soul of worthy behavior of the followers of uted to God Almighty is because pre- Jesus, he has been named after him. The Jesusas, it had been decreed that the viously the natural causation of ev- soul of Jesus desired from the All-Powerful spirituality of Jesusas should descend erything had not been discovered and God someone in his own image to come into the world three times. man’s extreme frustration was named down on earth, who should be invested with [A’ina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 5, pp. 341-346]

SUMMER 2010 5 Editorial

Getting a ful for his appearance so they could tian missionaries saw the failure of their accept him and join him for the deliv- mission, not only in India but in Africa handle on erance of mankind. One notable orga- and in many other parts of the world. nization named Jehovah’s Witnesses Muslim and Christian scholars con- Messiah survived and is still established in many tinue to claim that the signs of the latter countries. days have been fulfilled. What needs prophecies In British India there were close to to be noted is, the prophecies indicated one hundred thousand Christian mis- that with the fulfillment of the latter day and the truth sionaries propagating and converting signs, we would know that Jesusas has Muslims to Christianity with the full already appeared; it is not that the he 19th century support of the British Empire. It is hard signs would appear and we would still introduced itself as a to imagine a hundred years later how be waiting for the appearance of the time of tremendous powerful the Empire was as it was Messiah. change. Science spread all over the world and “the sun As the New Testament declared, stretched the horizons did not set on the British Empire”. the Messiah appeared “as a thief in the ofT human imagination and potential, In America, John Alexander Dowie night” and only a few “select” recog- bringing the world within reach. Global established the City of Zion in Illinois nized him who were eagerly waiting for interaction took on a pace never before which was to become the seat of Chris- the “Bridegroom of the Scriptures”. seen. Western nations competed with tianity. He announced that he was like Quite a few books have been written each other for colonial conquests, after Elijah preparing for Jesus’ appearance since the 19th century by European which they found themselves in the and the final victory of Christianity. Christian scholars about Jesus’ travel forefront of an intellectual battlefield with It was in these inspirational times to Kashmir after the incident of the cru- their newfound subjects. Religious, that the founder of the Ahmadiyya cifixion. It seems that the hope of intellectual and cultural exchanges were Muslim Community announced that he Jesusas physically descending is dimin- as enriching as they were enraging. A was the fulfillment of the Second Com- ishing at a rapid pace. philosophical survival of the fittest took ing of the Messiah. He announced that It is the duty of every Muslim and place as the West and East Jesusas would not be returning to this Christian to look into the claim of the interchangeably played the roles of world in his physical body, because he Messiah of the time, so they can rec- predator and prey. This struggle died a natural death and is buried in ognize him and accept him for the es- continues today. Kashmir, India. tablishment of lasting peace in the In the religious arena, in accordance A hundred years later after this an- world, in accordance with the proph- with the prophecies of the Bible and nouncement, the Zion City of Dr. ecies. the Holy Qur’an, Christians and Mus- Dowie is nothing but a small suburb of In the current issue, we have pre- lims (Sunni and Shi’a) were awaiting with no recognition of its sented some of the changes that took the appearance of the Messiah. Ac- founder. The British Empire dwindled place since the 19th century. It is our cording to their scholars all signs re- down to the small island from which it hope and prayer that readers would garding the latter days had been ful- expanded in the 19th century. The Czar acquire some insight and investigate filled and the Messiah was to appear of Russia is no more and the Kaiser of further to join the blessed mission of at any moment. Many organizations Germany, who was a champion of the Second Messiah, if nothing else, for were established to prepare the faith- Christianity, was dethroned. The Chris- the establishment of peace on earth. 6 MuslimSunrise ‘Sufficient for us is Allah, and an excellent Guardian is He.’

Today, the believers should respond in the very same manner. Today the followers of the Promised Messiahas respond in the same vein when efforts are made to scare them. True believers are not frightened of the scare-mongering of any group, any legislative body or any organization.

Pharaoh-like people tried their best to Prophetsaw got wind of this. He gathered the obliterate Prophets of God and their Companions and prepared to chase the pa- followers. This happened with each gans but said that only those would par- religion as long as they stayed firm on the ticipate who had been to Uhad. original message. Likewise, the Holy Imagine the weary and the injured Com- Prophetsaw was treated in similar manner panions, 250 of them set out with the pas- although he was the most beloved of sion of a victorious army. When they en- God. The troubles, difficulties, wars etc. camped the Holy Prophetsawordered that fire that he had to endure were indeed more be lit in 500 spots. It was a most impressive than the earlier Prophets. However, his sight from distance. The pagans of Makkah steadfastness was resolute and he thought it better to go back. The Muslims inculcated this spirit in his Companions too returned after a stay of two three days, as well. Lack of numbers and weapons God’s awe having struck the pagans. It is etc. did not ever shake the resoluteness significant to note that on return from Uhad Summary of Friday Sermon Delivered of his Companions. Abu Sufyan had declared and challenged by Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadat, The Holy Qur’an states: ‘As to those that they would fight the Muslims at Badr the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim who answered the call of Allah and the Mes- one more time. The Prophet (peace and Community, March 5, 2010 senger after they had received an injury — blessings of Allah be on him) accepted this such of them as do good and act righteously callenge. shall have a great reward; (3:173) In 4 Hijra the Muslims prepared an army eople of Divine Those to whom men said, ‘People have of 1500 while Abu Sufyan prepared an army communities have mustered against you, therefore fear them,’ of 2000. His spies had informed him about the same but this only increased their faith, and they the numbers of Muslims and he was se- P said, ‘Sufficient for us is Allah, and an ex- cretly perturbed that their number was not responsibilities as the cellent Guardian is He.’ (3:174). This large enough. He sent a man to Medina to strength of faith and spirit to sacrifice one’s scare the Muslims into believing that a very Prophets of God who life in the cause of God can be seen in the large Makkan army was on its way. establish them, i.e., summon account of the Battle of Uhad. Due to the However, God states such propaganda error of a small group of Muslims, a battle by the enemy actually enhances Muslims people to God and having that had been clearly won was turned in faith. Their reply was and always is: ‘Suf- pointed out misleading around and the pagans of Makkah attacked ficient for us is Allah, and an excellent once again incurring heavy loss on the Guardian is He.’ The 1500 Muslims reached thoughts and practices that Muslim side. The Holy Prophet (peace and Badr but the pagans of Makkah went back get set in with the passage blessings of Allah be on him) lost his from a little outside Makkah. They said it blessed tooth but the Companions gathered had been a famine year and their prepara- of time, show them the way around him in a manner that no force could tion was not adequate, they would come of truth. History of religion move them and each attack of the enemy the year after. Death had scared the pagans met with failure. The pagans of Makkah off whereas it enhances believers in faith. tells us that each time appeared to have the upper hand, although Hudhur said the history of Islam is full of followers of a Prophet of God not in the militarily. The Arabs taunted them incidents where the scare-mongering of the that they had imagined to retaliate for Badr, enemy did not work. did this they received but what sort of a victory was this where Today, the believers should respond in overwhelming opposition, there was neither any bounty of war nor the very same manner. Today the followers any prisoners. This incited the pagan to of the Promised Messiahas respond in the especially at the time when return to the battlefield and attack the same vein when efforts are made to scare they were small in number. battle-weary and injured Muslims. The Holy them. True believers are not frightened of SUMMER 2010 7 the scare-mongering of any group, any leg- joining his community entailed following it’s saved in the various battles. The real ob- islative body or any organisation. They are teaching in the face of all opposition. He jective of a Prophet and his followers is to always steadfast and firm on faith. They said that the Holy Prophetsaw and his Com- spread the message, punishment is not their are beaten up, abused and their lives are panions faced bitter persecution for 13 aim, rather, it is to make people worship God. taken, but they are never in awe of anyone years but eventually all the enemies were As a matter of principle those who have save God, their response is always: ‘Suffi- obliterated. God has willed that this com- been warned will be chastised, whether in cient for us is Allah, and an excellent Guard- munity too will spread in the world and this world or the next. That only God knows. ian is He.’ when it will gain in numbers, the opponents Accountability is with God. Hudhur said The more the enemy tries the more they will be silenced. God wills to give training some people object that this prophecy or turn to their Lord. Hudhur said today there of patience through these circumstances. that prophecy has not been fulfilled. It will is great opposition towards our community He wrote that many who used to be abu- all be evident in the Presence of God. Ah- in some countries. This, in fact is a testi- sive repented and took bai’at. Patience is madis are witness to the fact that many mony of its truthfulness. In their opposi- also a kind of worship and has countless prophecies have indeed come to pass, oth- tion all the 72 sects of Islam have tried their blessings. Pain strengthens faith. ers are coming to pass and each new day utmost in Pakistan but have not been able Hudhur said he has chosen two sub- makes the truthfulness of the Promised to harm Ahmadis, indeed, they cannot harm jects with reference to the Divine attribute Messiahas evident. In verse 42 of Surah Al them. Apparent loss is nothing for a true of Al Hasib (the Reckoner) for today’s Ser- Rad God states that can the opponents of believer, the real thing is faith. mon. One was to elucidate that the strength truth not see that God is ‘reducing earth Hudhur said he receives letters from of true believers' faith and their steadfast- from its outlying borders’? Hudhur said Is- parents and families of the martyred Ahma- ness enables them to face opposition. It is lam spread rapidly in its early years and nu- dis expressing a greater and enhanced spirit a source of attaining nearness to God and merous came in the sphere of its safety and of faith and sincerity. Now, opposition is gives them an insight and perception that security. When God decreed He also pun- growing in parts of India as well and the God is Sufficient for them. Next Hudhur ished. It is God’s verdict that either great situation in Bangladesh too continues to cited verses 41 and 42 of Surah Al Rad and numbers accepting Islam reduce the earth be adverse at any given opportunity. In explained that the objectives of Prophets for enemies of Islam or natural disasters some Arab countries, be it Syria or Egypt, of God and their followers is to take the reduce land for them. This happened in the situation is similar as it is in Bulgaria and message of truth to people whether people past, is currently happening and will hap- some ex-Soviet states where the Muftis accept it or not. The consequences of them pen in the future. When God is with His pressurise our community. Opposition of not accepting is in God's hands, Who is Al Prophet then who is it that can come in the the community of the Promised Messiahas Hasib (the Reckoner). Verse 41 states: ‘And way? There is none who can reverse God’s in different parts of the world confirms its whether We make thee see the fulfilment of decree. Therein God has given hope and global significance. Those who appreciate some of the things with which We threaten courage to true believers that as long as and understand the Divine attribute of Al them or whether We make thee die, it makes they continue to be true servants of God, Hasib (the Reckoner) will always respond little difference, for on thee lies only the they will have no fear. God is swift in reck- that no matter how much opposition there delivery of the Message, and on Us the reck- oning. is, their reply is: ‘Sufficient for us is Allah, oning. (13:41) Verse 45 of Surah Al Anbiya states the and an excellent Guardian is He.’ This is Do they not see that We are visiting the same subject: ‘Nay, We provided those and what we have learned from the Companions land, reducing it from its outlying borders? their fathers with the good things of this of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings And Allah judges; there is none to reverse world till life grew long for them. Do they of Allah be on him). His judgment. And He is swift at reckon- not see that We are visiting the land, re- The Promised Messiahassaid, ‘These ing. (13:42). Hudhur explained that God has ducing it from its outlying borders? Can verses illustrate that true courage derives His own way of chastisement and knows they even then be victors? (21:45). Hudhur from steadfastness. To be steadfast against well when to punish whom. It is not essen- said if a nation has been in power for a long every personal passion or against any ca- tial for Him to implement prompt chastise- period of time and feels superior about it, lamity that attacks like an enemy and not to ment. Chastisement can be a sign and its certainly such situations are not permanent. run away out of cowardice is true courage.’ objective is reformation. It is in God’s In fact God states that He generously pro- (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam’ knowledge who will desist in their opposi- vides generations upon generations of a p. 77). Hudhur explained that the Promised tion of Prophet of God and will be reformed nation but it should always be kept in view Messiahas unfolds a different perspective and who will reform after slight punishment that great big nations were diminished in for us here, that aside from apparent en- and who will never desist. It is these people the past. In recent past the European na- emy, passions of the self can also be ag- who are chastised. tions lost much of their power. They had gressive like an enemy. To overcome pas- Hudhur explained that some enemies of colonised huge parts of the world and now sions of the self also enables one to con- Prophets of God are brought to account dur- they are diminished. Russia too had spread tend with apparent enemy. Therefore one ing the lifetime of the Prophet while others over a vast area but many of its nations has to submit oneself completely to God are not. The Holy Prophetsaw accurately fore- have gained independence. This very des- and it is then that one experiences the mani- told the exact locations where some of the tiny will one day be repeated in America. festations of the Divine attribute of Al Hasib enemies would lose their lives in the Battle Smaller countries too may not have any pre- (the Reckoner) beyond one’s imagination. of Badr. There were indeed some among the sumptions, they too can diminish. However, The Promised Messiahas also said that enemy who later accepted Islam and were there is glad-tiding for Islam, there is glad-

8 MuslimSunrise tiding for the followers of the Promised calamities that follow accusation of false- falsehood were levied in the Punjab. The Messiahas that Islam will be triumphant. Our hood on God’s appointed people are gen- Promised Messiahas warned that just as Tabligh efforts are humble, our task is to eral and not specific. earthquakes had struck according to proph- spread the message with love. However, we Hudhur said a few days ago a huge ecies in America and Europe, they would see glimpses of what Divine decree can do earthquake struck Chile. Two months ago strike in Asia, some of which would be a in the form of earthquakes and other ca- an earthquake had struck Haiti. The Chil- picture of Day of Judgement, obliterating lamities. If only the Muslims too would ean earthquake was 64–times stronger than life en masse. So much so that those with abandon their opposition and become a part the Haitian quake. Hudhur said these are wisdom will find this extraordinary and no of the destiny that will come to pass through signs in support of the Promised Messiahas. worldly knowledge will be able to explain the Promised Messiahas. Hudhur said the Hundreds of thousands of homes have been the phenomenon. This is when mankind will current-day calamites and disasters are also damaged. It is being said that the Chilean get anxious and many will be given salva- a sign of support for the Promised earthquake is the seventh most dreadful tion while many will be destroyed. This will come to pass in the not too distant future and many other dreadful calamities will take place. Some occurring from the skies, oth- Patience is also a kind of worship ers on the earth. This will be because man- and has countless blessings. Pain kind has stopped worshipping God and all attention is focussed on the world. The strengthens faith. Promised Messiahas said had he not come, these calamities may have been slightly delayed, but with his coming the hidden will of God had been made evident, just as God Messiahas. Many people query that the op- earthquake since records began. The earth- has declared: ‘…We never punish until We position is from the false Imams, why then quake has taken off 1.26 milliseconds from have sent a Messenger.’ (17:16). Those who are the poor and disadvantaged being killed Earth day, which is now this much shorter. repent will be granted refuge. in these disasters. Scientists have also recorded that the pow- A famous quote of the Promised Explaining this, the Promised Messiahas erful quake shifted the Earth’s figure axis Messiahasin this regard states: ‘O’ Europe, said that it is the way of God that when all by three inches. Hudhur explained this is you too are not in peace and O’ Asia, you limits are exceeded in accusing truthful the axis about which the Earth’s mass is too are not safe, and O’ dwellers of the is- people of God of falsehood and they are balanced. Thus a situation is arisen to ‘re- lands no false god will help you. I see cities persecuted, all kinds of calamities occur in duce earth on its outlying borders’. being demolished and find populated areas the world. All Books of God state this as The Promised Messiahas indeed foretold desolated. The One and Only God remained does the Holy Qur’an. Just as at the time earthquakes as one of his signs. A quake silent for a long time while repulsive things when Moses (on whom be peace) was ac- struck Chile in 1906 which the Promised were done in front of Him and He said noth- cused of falsehood all kinds of calamities Messiah (on whom be peace) had called as ing. But now He will manifest His counte- befell Egypt. Although the far-afield people a sign in his support. From 1570 to 1835 nance with awe. Those who have ears to of Egypt had not even heard of Moses (on five earthquakes struck Chile. The next one hear may listen that the time is not far. I whom be peace) and therefore had not struck in 1868 and then the 1906 one. Since tried to gather everyone under the refuge sinned. While the Pharaoh was saved, the then Chile has been struck with eighteen of God, but it was certain for what was des- unaware were killed. Again, in the time of powerful earthquakes. The Promised tined to be fulfilled. I say most truthfully Jesus (on whom be peace) those who Messiahaswrote at the time of the Chilean that the turn of this country is also ap- wanted to kill him through crucifixion re- earthquake of 1906 that he had had his proaching. You will witness the time of Noah mained unharmed. However, forty years prophecies about strong earthquakes strik- and you will see the incident of Lot. But later thousand of Jews were killed and there ing the world published many times so God is lenient in chastisement. Repent, so was an outbreak of plague. The Qur’an much so that the earth would disintegrate. that you may be given mercy. A person who proves that this was due to Jesus (on whom He wrote that the earthquakes of San Fran- leaves God is a worm not a man and a per- be peace). Similarly in the times of the Holy cisco and Formosa that came in accordance son who does not fear Him is dead not Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be to his prophecy were known to all, but re- alive.’ Hudhur added that this warning is on him) a seven year famine took place and cently, on 16 August 1906 an earthquake specifically for the region of India and Pa- most of the poor died whereas the great big had struck Chile which was no less power- kistan. evil-doers were saved for a long period. In ful. It destroyed fifteen towns, thousands Hudhur prayed that may God give sense short it is the way of God that when some- lost their lives and hundreds of thousands and understanding to the world to recognise one comes from Him and is accused of were made homeless. Some could ask how one sent from God and is thus spared God’s falsehood, all kinds of calamities come to could this be a sign, as these earthquakes chastisement. May He also enable us to take pass. However, people who have nothing did not strike Punjab. They did not realise the true message of Islam to others and may to do with the accusation of falsehood are that God is the God of the entire world not each difficulty and trouble in this cause caught up in the calamities. Gradually the just of the Punjab and He had informed the strengthen our faith and may we not aban- false Imams are seized and the time of the Promised Messiahas about the whole world. don our task out of fear. May God enable wickedest comes in the end. The natural It was unfortunate that accusations of us so.

SUMMER 2010 9 Dr. John Alexander Dowie founded a Christian utopian community near Chicago and ruled over it with an iron fist. He met his end in 1907, after a “prayer duel” with Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, a Muslim, who claimed to be the “Messiah” from an unknown and remote village, Qadian, in India. While American historians have recorded the history of Dowie and Zion, today there remains a historical mystery regarding the prophetic events in Zion that ultimately led to Dowie’s death and the demise of a once prosperous Midwestern town. In the above photo, Dowie, at the height of his power sits with his affluently dressed wife, Jane Dowie.

Dr. John Alexander Dowie: A Man Who Would Be King An American Theocracy & Tragedy in Zion, Illinois In the words of religious historian Grant Wacker, Zion was an experiment in social engineering “that ranks among the largest and most grandly conceived utopian communities in modern American history.”

10 MuslimSunrise By Hasan Hakeem most grandly conceived utopian communities could not bear to see the suffering that sur- in modern American history.” rounded him and he refused to do nothing. It and Aasim Ahmad The architect of this brave new utopian was in this passionate state that he claimed to world was Dowie. A Scot, who began his cleri- have had some revelation. Dowie himself or over a decade, Chicagoans woke cal career as a Congregationalist, Dowie left writes of this revelation that, up to Bob “Uncle Bobby” Collins on that body in 1878 to launch his own denomi- Ftheir radio. The WGN-AM 720 nation, which, despite its purely Protestant ‘The words of the Holy Ghost inspired in morning radio host’s death brought an nature, he dubbed as the Christian Catholic Acts 10: 38 stood before me all radiant with outpouring of emotion and tears as Apostolic Church (CCC). light, revealing Satan as the defiler and Christ Chicagoans sought to share their grief. When Zion City was incorporated in 1902, as the Healer. My tears were wiped away, my Collins died after a mid-air collision over 7,000 inhabitants made their home in the Chris- heart was strong, I saw the way of healing, downtown Zion on Feb. 8, 2000. Collins’ plane, tian utopia. Named after the mountain upon and the door thereto was opened wide, and after both airplanes came down in the city of which Jerusalem was built, Zion City was to so I said, ‘God, help me now to preach that Zion, narrowly missing the Sheridan Nursing be communitarian and theocratic, a place of word to all the dying ‘round, and tell them Home crashed into the roof of Midwestern Christian cooperation, racial harmony, and how ‘tis Satan still defiles, and Jesus still de- Regional Medical Center, 2501 Emmaus Ave., strict fundamentalist morals. livers, for He is just the same today.’2 and subsequently exploded. The other plane plunged into the middle of Elim Avenue strik- ing a tree before coming to rest on a residen- tial sidewalk between 25th and 26th streets. The damaged hospital was founded by a family practice physician in the community of Zion, to serve the medical needs of local resi- dents. It was simply known as the Zion Hos- pital. It was eventually sold to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) and eventually became known as the Midwestern Regional Medical Center on September 25, 1991. The renovation of the hospital had as- sistance from the Zion City Council. The coun- cil approved an ordinance to issue $20 million in general obligation bonds to finance the project. Several years later, planning was well un- derway to add a two-story, outpatient oncol- ogy clinic above the radiation oncology cen- ter. Those plans were put aside when Collins’ plane crashed onto the roof of the hospital. The crash caused extensive damage to the roof and fifth floor of the hospital. The energy that would have gone into adding the two additional floors, instead went into renovat- ing the existing hospital. All of this probably would have gone un- noticed, except for religious historians and older Zion residents, who commented on the Dowie’s Christian perspective was based Almost instantly after receiving this rev- fact that the Collins’ fatal accident brought on “divine healing.” He argued that sickness elation, some men rushed into Dowie’s room back dark memories of Zion’s history and its and infirmity were manifestations of sin and requesting his assistance in prayer for a girl, founder, Dr. John Alexander Dowie. Civic, re- inadequate faith. Consequently, he preached Mary, who was believed by a local physician ligious and political leaders prefer the image a radical rejection of all conventional medical to be fast approaching her death. Believing of Zion being a quiet little town, located along treatment in favor of prayer and clean living. this to be the fulfillment of the prophecy he the lakeside, some 41 miles north of Chicago He had a profound and rabid hatred for the received moments ago, Dowie rushed over to and a stone’s throw away from Illinois’ north- medical profession. Mary’s home intent on her recovery.3 Dowie, ern border that touches Wisconsin. Dowie’s Dowie’s initial claim to divinity can be upon reaching the girl’s room, began praying name is rarely mentioned in Zion, most resi- traced to his life in the “land down under.” It fervently for her recovery, invoking God and dents have no knowledge of the city’s founder. was in Australia, 1876, when a plague had Prophet Jesusas. Dowie believed disease and Yet, in the words of religious historian Grant stricken Newtown, a suburb of Sydney. A resi- suffering was attributed to the work of Satan. Wacker, Zion was an experiment in social en- dent there, John Alexander Dowie was greatly In Dowie’s mind, illness was a sign of a lack of gineering “that ranks among the largest and grieved by the horror of that plague.1 Dowie faith. The doctor was confused and told

SUMMER 2010 11 Dowie there was nothing to be done and that the impending death of Mary was simply God’s will. Dowie refused to allow such non- sense and continued to pray.4 Throughout this period of the late 1870’s, Dowie grew in popularity as a faith healer in Australia, and soon this popularity spread to many west- ern countries as well as Dowie’s head. It was his new mission to preach salvation and healing, which ultimately led to his moving to the , specifically Chicago, Illinois.5 Dowie entered the United States in the year 1888 in where he was already known and respected. One woman described Dowie’s early preaching in the Americas as focused more on spirituality than on his healing abilities.6 In addition to this, Dowie would refuse to pray for those who were not faithful themselves.7 Gordon Gardiner provides an account of one Jennie Paddock who was one of the early Americans who was prayed for by Early in 1902, Dowie had a large "hotel" constructed, called the Elijah Dowie and was healed. Gordon writes, Hospice, to accommodate workers who would build the new city. The Hospice She [Mrs. Paddock] had a large fibroid was located on Sheridan Road and 26th Street. The above photo was taken at tumor in her abdomen which had grown so Elim Avenue and Sheridan Road looking north. It took 500 workers two months firmly to the blood vessels that the doctors to complete the three-story building, which at the time was the largest wooden believed an operation would prove structure in Illinois. Painted white, the Hospice seemed to be the very icon of fatal…Dr. Dowie first satisfied himself that Dowie's message of "clean and faithful living." The building’s dome is one of the woman was a Christian. Then he offered the city's oldest landmarks, and sits prominently along Sheridan Road where prayer for her…details of her healing were it is seen by thousands of people each day. It is the only surviving remnant of published in the Chicago Inter-Ocean, one Zion's grand wooden hotel, which was destroyed by bulldozer after city leaders of the leading newspapers of the day.8 After this early success, the methodol- did not want to restore the deteriorating building. ogy of Dowie began to morph into some- thing more egoistic and arrogant. One ex- ample of his growing arrogance was the God.12 Another interesting event was a ber mill, and bakery. manner by which he executed his “healing meeting between Dowie and the then To keep this hive of industry on the homes.” It was in May of1894 that Dowie President Mckinley. Dowie had allegedly straight and narrow path, Dowie forbade set up one of his first healing homes in predicted the assassination of the Presi- his followers to purchase property out- Chicago.9 The “healing homes” required dent, which occurred some days after right. Instead, the citizens of Zion leased that all medical supplies and drugs etc. be their meeting.13 their homes for a generous term of 1,100 left and one need only bring themselves and An intensely charismatic preacher, years, their tenancy subject to swift termi- faith in God.10 Dowie had an absolute mis- Dowie quickly accumulated a substan- nation should they attempt to exploit it for trust of the medical profession, which was tial midwestern following. In 1901 he per- any immoral enterprise. Expressly forbid- unfortunate. In fact, Dowie was repeatedly suaded 10,000 of his congregants to den by the terms of the lease were saloons, arrested for practicing medicine without a settle on 6,600 acres of unoccupied land tobacco shops, opium joints, theaters, license.11 he had mortgaged at the northernmost opera houses, gambling dens, dance halls, A number of interesting events oc- end of Sheridan Road, now known as the circuses, brothels, and “any place for the curred in relation to Dowie between the City of Zion. There Dowie proposed to manufacture or sale of drugs or medicines period of his arrival in America and the build a prosperous theocratic utopia free of any kind, or the office of a practicing opening of Zion city. One interesting of sin, vice, class antagonism, and pov- physician.” event is the healing of a cousin of erty—a veritable anti-Chicago, in other Dowie and his followers sought to es- Abraham Lincoln, Amanda M. Hicks. words. The shining city by the lake was cape what they saw as the lawlessness and Miss. Hicks was plagued by a cancerous conceived as a hybrid of commune and sin of American society by establishing a tumor and upon Dowie’s prayer was ap- company town. Settlers would be em- carefully planned utopia with Dowie as parently healed. The spiritual aspect of ployed in various collectively owned “general overseer.” In the first issue of the Dowie’s healing was the requirement that light industries, which included a lace paper he edited, The Coming City (June one should place his or her full faith in factory, candy factory, print shop, lum- 27, 1900), he declared: “Zion City will be

12 MuslimSunrise built by Theocrats. It will be run by Theo- is the liar may perish first.... I am an old man of social disorganization, cultural deprivation, crats. It will aim to overthrow Democracy, 66 years and Dr. Dowie is eleven years or personal maladjustment. and establish Theocracy over all the earth, younger; therefore on grounds of age he need All of these factors were undeniably and sea, and in deepest hell, even as God not have any apprehension.... If the self-made present, but they do not explain plausibly rules in highest heaven.” deity of Dr. Dowie has any power, he shall the abrupt emergence, nor even the long, Initially, some 25 businesses and com- certainly allow him to appear against me and drawn-out demise, of the endeavor. Succintly mercial interests jump-started Zion City’s procure my destruction in his lifetime.” stated, no part of the story of Zion City economy, providing work for the people Whether the Almighty took any interest makes much sense unless one appreciates who moved there from around the world. in their contest, there is no doubt about the the central and irreducible role of religious The Zion Department Store and the fac- winner. Prior to his death, Dowie was para- motivations.14 tory of Zion Lace Industries together em- lyzed and suffered from dementia. His beloved It was 10 years ago that Bob “Uncle ployed as many as 3,000 workers. But by city of Zion was bankrupt and eventually Bobby” Collins’ plane took a flight that sadly 1905, Zion’s local economy was in placed in receivership. As his life slipped crashed into a medical facility that could shambles. However, some say the fall of away into darkness, his friends and family never have existed in Dowie’s Zion. The Zion was due to Dowie’s worldly ambitions deserted him, and now only a faint memory hospital’s staff is comprised of more than and his declaration in 1903 that he declared remains…a memory easily forgotten. How- 100 physicians; many have practices in the himself Elijah the Restorer, messenger of ever, if it were not for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Zion community. The hospital is now Zion’s the Second Coming of Christ. Community, the memory of Dowie surely largest employer and provides medical care The killing stroke Dowie dealt on him- would have been long forgotten. Dowie’s life to cancer patients from around the world. It self was claiming to be Elijah. Dowie him- serves as a proof of the truth of Islam and the is located directly across the street from self had no record of revelation such that truth of Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas and Dowie’s 25-room mansion, “The Shiloh this could have been remotely true. Those nothing more. House,” a museum filled with Dowie arti- who claim themselves to be prophets or The Truth-Seeker of June 15 1907 wrote: facts. any messenger of God must have proof of “The Qadian man predicted that if Dowie ac- Regarding his fateful encounter with constant revelation. cepted the challenge, he would leave the world Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, there are no The most interesting account of the blow before his eyes with great sorrow and tor- historical records, according to the Zion His- dealt to Dowie and his beloved Zion City ment. If Dowie declined, the Mirza said, the torical Society, despite the fact that more was his interaction with Hazrat Mirza end would only be deferred; death awaited than 25 American newspapers followed the Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiahas and him just the same and calamity would soon story until Dowie’s death, March 9, 1907. founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Commu- overtake Zion. That was the grand prophecy: Ahmadas died one year later. His legacy con- nity. As Dowie was an enemy of all religions Zion would fall and Dowie would die before tinues in Zion through the Ahmadiyya Mus- but his own, it is not surprising he had no Ahmad.” lim Community Mission House, 2103 Gabriel use for Islam. Avenue. On February 14, 1903, he wrote in his The Herald of Boston, in its issue of June paper: “I pray to God that Islam should soon 23 1907, observed: “Dowie died a miserable Hasan Hakeem is the President of the disappear from the world. O God, accept this death with Zion City torn and frayed by in- Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Zion and is prayer of mine. O God, destroy Islam”. ternal dissensions.” also a Chaplain at the Kenosha County Cor- Again, on August 5, 1903, he wrote in his rectional Facility, Wisconsin. Aasim Ahmad paper: “The black spot on the mantle of man In 1928 the popular historian Gilbert is a Senior at Lake Forest College. (Islam) will meet its end at the hands of Seldes claimed that “since the time of Zion”. Finally, Dowie directed this caustic Brigham Young there has been no phenom- Works Cited: remark at Ahmadas in his weekly magazine, enon like the growth of the Christian Catho- the Leaves of Healing of December 1903: lic Apostolic Church in Zion”. Seldes exag- 1 Gordon Gardiner, The Apostle of Divine “There is a Muhammadan Messiah in India gerated, yet there is ample evidence that Healing: The Story of John Alexander Dowie, 3. 2 who has repeatedly written to me that Jesus the town, which numbered 7,500 residents Ibid., 3-4. 3 Ibid., 4. Christ lies buried in Kashmir, and people at the time Dowie was stricken, ranks among 4 Ibid., 4. ask me why I do not answer him. Do you the largest and most grandly conceived uto- 5God’s Generals: John Alexander Dowie Why imagine that I shall reply to such gnats and pian communities in modern American his- They Succeeded and Why Some Failed, DVD, flies? If I were to put down my foot on them tory. Even so, students of American religious directed by Roberts Liardon (2005; I would crush out their lives. I give them a history for the most part have overlooked it. Whitaker Entertainment). chance to fly away and live.” Zion City rarely is mentioned in the stan- 6Gordon Gardiner, Apostle, 7. In the summer of 1903, this brought a well- dard surveys of the field, and even in mono- 7Ibid., 8. 8 publicized challenge to an Islamic prayer duel graphs dealing with early , Ibid., 8. 9 to the death, or Mubahila, from a small vil- where it ought to loom large, the settlement Ibid., 8. 10God’s Generals, Roberts Liardon. lage, Qadian, on the Indian subcontinent. usually receives only brief and grudging at- 11Ibid., “Whether the God of Muhammadans or the tention. The second and larger aim of the 12 Gordon Gardiner, Apostle, 9-10. God of Dowie is the true God, may be essay is to suggest that the impulses that 13God’s Generals, Roberts Liardon. settled...he should choose me as his oppo- ultimately undergirded the community can- 14 Gilbert Seldes, The Stammering Century nent and pray to God that of us two, whoever not be translated readily into theories of (New York, 1928 ), p. 389.

SUMMER 2010 13 To the casual observer, what took place Ahmadiyya in the City of Zion may appear to be noth- ing more than a crazy claim by a religious Perspective on the charlatan and perhaps its ending too much of a coincidence but that would be like “Grand Prophecy” shutting one’s eyes to the truth and not judging such matters in a rational manner. n international freelance The fact of the matter is that Mirza Ghulam radio and TV journalist, Ahmad’sas Ahmadiyya Muslim Community working on assignment in continues to prosper and advance after Indonesia, learns of the more than 100 years of succession to spiri- story of Zion, Illinois and tual leadership since Ahmad’s death in 1908. Dr.A John Alexander Dowie, after In Dowie’s Zion, his name is but a interviewing members of the Ahmadiyya faint memory, it’s apparent that no one Muslim Community on persecution in the wants the stigma of Dowie’s actions and Asian country. She was told, “If you are claims to be a part of Zion’s history. Yet, doing a story on the Ahmadiyya Muslim it is a compelling story for truth seekers Community, you have to go to Zion, Illinois that will not die. A mere Google of because of its amazing history and the Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas Dowie’s name reveals repetitious prayer duel between Dowie and the founder webpages with references to Dowie’s of the Ahmadiyya Community, Hazrat Mirza In principle, this is a measure regarding history and his ministry. Ghulam Ahmad (as).” one who attributes falsehood to Allah. The The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community On the eve of Zion’s Centennial (year Promised Messiahas presented this measure (AMC) Mission House sits on property 2001), the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as a testimony to his truthfulness. He said formerly owned by Dowie. The organiza- hosted a national conference, “Messiah that it is a Sign that one who is false is de- tion has ongoing social service and edu- 2000,” to commemorate the historical prayer stroyed. cational programs including a Jail Ministry duel between the city’s founder, Dr. John It was Dowie who in 1903 advocated the marked by its multi-faith programs. Re- Alexander Dowie and the Promised Mes- demise of Islam, supplicated to God in his cently, the Ahmadiyya Community was the siah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam weekly newspaper, The Leaves of Healing: first to support a community proposal to Ahmad, Alaihis Salam. The highly success- This prayer: “I pray to God that Islam should save the last vestige of Dowie’s former ful conference brought more than 4,000 soon disappear from the world. O God, accept wooden hotel. A 109-year-old Dome that Ahmadies to Zion. Since there was no fa- this prayer of mine. O God destroy Islam.” once proudly sat atop the Zion Hotel may cility in Zion to accommodate the partici- Anwer Mahmood Khan, who authored a be demolished for lack of resources to main- pants, the main venue was held at Carthage book on the subject, “Fulfillment of a Grand tain the historical structure. Dowie built College, near Kenosha, Wisconsin, located Prophecy: Hadhrat Ahmad’s Challenge to the Zion Hotel in 1901 for workers who near Zion. John Alexander Dowie,” said: “Dowie’s ver- would help build the new city. Though The history of Dowie’s Zion City is well bal abuses upon the character of the founder the hotel was razed in 1979, the commu- known to the worldwide Ahmadiyya Mus- of Islam ostensibly hurt Mirza Ghulam Ahmad nity raised money and saved the white- lim Community. They believe that Dowie’s as. He responded to Dowie’s venomous attacks colored Dome. As news of the story hit death in 1907 was nothing less than the ful- with polite remarks of resolving the matter the newspapers, there was an outpour- fillment of what is referred to as the “Grand amicably through prayer. This fell on deaf ears ing of community support. Among them Prophecy,” a divine sign from God to the and Dowie’s verbal attacks increased as time was the president of Zion’s AMC, who western world. Ahmadi Muslims consider passed. Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas then chal- indicated that the Muslim community it to be a prophetic revelation and divine lenged Dowie to a prayer duel in which each would do whatever it could to help. “I support from God for the Promised of the claimants would pray to God Almighty think it would be tragic if we allow the Messiahas. that whoever is the liar would perish in the life Dome to be obliterated,” said Hasan The Ahmadies in support of Ahmad ar- of the other.” Hakeem, President, AMC/Zion. gue that “one who attributes falsehood to Despite the magnitude of this historical As a result of hits historical linkage to Allah; in particular falsehood about prayer duel, there is not one footnote acknowl- Zion, and Ahmadi Muslims from around the prophethood cannot escape punishment. edging that such an event ever took place in world visit Zion. A popular site is Dowie’s Allah states in the Qur’an: the life of Dowie. Several historians familiar former home, the Shiloh House, now a mu- “And if he had falsely attributed even a with Dowie’s Zion and his life have excluded seum housing remnants of Dowie’s Chris- trivial statement to Us, We would surely any references to his contact with Mirza tian Catholic Apostolic Church in the 25- have seized him by the right hand, And then Ghulam Ahmadas. But the “missing history” room mansion. The followers of Mirza surely We would have severed his jugular was recorded by at least 31 American news- Ahmad (as) have no animosity to the people vein, And not one of you could shield him papers over a five-year period, 1902-1907 in- of Zion, said Hakeem. “We are only inter- from him.” [(69:45)-(69:48)] cluding the New York Times. ested conveying the message of Islam.”

14 MuslimSunrise Islam in Early America

By Dania S. Ahmed plete lens, there was much capacity for not just to correct this error but also to il- progress to unite people of all races under lustrate how Jesus was a prophet of Islam. s ambassadors of Islam, we the one common umbrella of the Islam. At They had observed how missionaries in the often complain about how its very core, Islam advocates universal East had succeeded in misrepresenting Is- difficult it is to convey this brother and sisterhood. Another early Black lam and felt that a proactive agenda of beautiful, priceless gem to the supremacy extremist group seeking to rise missionizing was needed to counteract this West. We say that the in opposition against slavery was the damage. Recent Hindu-only movements in Adominating secular culture of the West has Moorish Science Temple of America, which India also fueled the drive to survive in a gone too far in promoting the “individual” labeled white people as “devils”. This in- world of plural faiths. “Reason itself revolts and the self-made man and that Westerners flamed discriminatory stance, resulting from against this exclusiveness.”2 have no time for God, for religion — but really, white superiority was not surprising yet it And so the struggle and revolt against do we have any idea? We also live in an was clear that something was indeed miss- exclusiveness, whether it was in the East or immensely technological time, one the West, was under way. Uni- marked by the comfort of having all versal inclusiveness sought to kinds of information readily available somehow belong. In America, at our fingertips, with messages this meant a fresh new beginning traveling throughout the world which was only feasible after instantaneously — do we truly use Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra con- this blessing to our advantage, as fronted the bitter realities, which mini missionaries, to propagate our surrounded him vehemently. faith? Imagine the arduous journey There were numerous obstacles from London to New York on a ship, on the road leading to the vic- equipped with the heavy tory of Islam in America. Mufti responsibility of disseminating the Muhammad Sadiqra did not stop message of Islam upon reaching the once to give up his cause. American shore. Known on the The determination of surface as a land of endless Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra to im- opportunity, the United States came part the message of Islam can- with many downsides. At a time when not be underestimated. This ex- racism against immigrants was highly pedition began on the very ship rampant and when a prevailing on which Mufti Muhammad separatist attitude hindered the Sadiqra was aboard as he deliv- universality of Islam to flourish, ered Chapter 3, Verse 32 of the accomplishing this pivotal call to Holy Qur’an to his fellow pas- duty seemed near impossible. This sengers: “Say, if you love Allah, was America in the roaring 1920s. It follow me; then Allah will love was in January 1920 when Mufti you.” This simple yet powerful Muhammad Sadiqra, a close glimpse into the sacred truth companion of the founder of the empowered four Chinese men, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, First USA Missionary one American, one Syrian and (AMC), Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, left one Yugoslavian to convert to London for New York to become in what ing. This is where Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra Islam. The bitter realities, which Mufti the second successor of the Ahmadiyya stepped into the picture. Muhammad Sadiqra had to face too cannot Muslim Community – Mirza Mahmud In his comprehensive article, East of The be rendered minuscule. Immediately follow- Ahmadra, called “one of the first pioneers Sun (West of the Moon): Islam, the Ahma- ing arrival at Ellis Island in New York, Mufti in the spiritual colonization of the Western dis, and African America, Professor Muhammad Sadiqra was accused of coming world.”1 Moustafa Bayoumi highlights Mufti to the United States to practice polygamy. In the 1920s, America was not fa- Muhammad Sadiq’s crucial role to intro- Despite being sent to the detention house miliar with the universality of Islam. duce to America an unprecedented multi- in Philadephia as a result of the accusation, Through movements such as the Nation of racial model of Islam. He writes: he did not lose his sense of purpose. He Islam (NOI), which, affected by the unfor- “The Ahmadis had objected to the man- did not leave that jail before converting nine tunate existence of racism preached Islam ner in which British missionaries were re- other people with diverse backgrounds to only through a limited, objective and incom- viling the Prophet Muhammad and set out Islam. The countries they represented in-

SUMMER 2010 15 Sadiq noted that African Americans in particular were attracted to Islam. In a country offering them little hope due to their skin color, African Americans found liberation and a sense of belonging in the framework offered to them by the first Muslim missionary in America. cluded: Jamaica, British Guyana, Azores, taught by the prophet Ahmad, of whom he He comes from a land which is out of the Poland, Russia, Germany, Belgium, Portu- is a principal disciple.”3 permitted zone. 2. He has no money with gal, Italy, and France. Indeed, this was an Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra was him; 3. He remains bare-footed, which is a amazing feat for a man, who according to released shortly thereafter with the torch disorderly act. 6. He is fighting for the coun- the American separatist rule of thought was of his perseverance shining ever so try. 7. He believes in making wine when he no more than an immigrant for whom the brighter. He knew that he would still have thinks necessary; 8. He has no credential illogical Asian exclusion laws applied. The to by any means confront the exclusion to show that he is an authorized preacher. expressed its outrage laws, which were inconsistent with the uni- 9. He believes in practicing the law of Moses and confirmed “the gap between America’s versal paradigm of Islam. In fact, in the de- [polygamy].”4 ideas of freedom, justice and equality and fense of his faith and spirit of jihad of the Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra noted that Af- the nation’s actual practice.” Moreover, a pen, Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra wrote in The rican Americans in particular were attracted newspaper, Press, described Muslim Sunrise: to Islam. In a country offering them little Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra in these words: “if Jesus Christ comes to America and hope due to their skin color, African Ameri- “…after traveling thousands of miles, alone applies for admission to the United States cans found liberation and a sense of be- and friendless, hopes to begin his crusade under the immigration laws, [he] would not longing in the framework offered to them to convert the Americans to the doctrines be allowed to enter this country because 1. by the first Muslim missionary in America.

16 MuslimSunrise Before this framework, a question of iden- Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra was a graduate In a nation of racial divisions, in which tity lingered. On which side could African of the University of London, a philologist the element of progress seemed nowhere Americans take refuge? On one hand, there of international repute and an expert in Ara- to be found, Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra as- was fierce resentment towards the history bic and Hebrew. In the creation of a univer- sured new converts that they were not only of enslavement and on the other, Black su- sal identity, he did not tire. Rather, he safe in the Jama’at of the Promised Mes- premacy threatened to perpetuate intoler- reached out to all Muslims in the United siah of Islam, but also liberated from the ance. Implementing Islam’s views on not States and in his piece, “My Advice to the shackles of mental slavery. Islam, once a only moderation but also universal and in- Muhammadans in America,” emphasized the unique expression of African American po- clusive brotherhood signified remarkable fact that because Muslims come from all litical aspirations for separation became progression. These notions of Islamic bal- lands, it is their duty to come together in more than just that. It was, is and will al- ance and reason were therefore, first the melting pot that is the United States ways be a universal religion of belonging. brought to the United States by the Ah- and embrace what should be their primary The new American world, then, did not al- madiyya Muslim Community. Realizing the identity — Muslim. ready encompass universal hope but was noteworthy contribution of missionary He further stated that most of these introduced to it. Universal hope and the work, Richard Brent Turner writes in Islam people were Muslims in name only and that guarantee of a universal identity under the in the African-American Experience: the United States was a good place to settle protection of Islam traveled on that ship “The Ahmadiyya was unquestionably in but that upholding their Muslim identity from London to New York in 1920. Through one of the most significant movements in was highly important. In keeping with this his missionary work, Mufti Muhammad the history of Islam in the United States in necessity, he gave the following guidance: Sadiqra tied together both the mission of the twentieth century, providing as it did 1) Retain Muslim names; 2) Offer daily the Holy Prophet of Islamsa and the revival the first multi-racial model for American prayers; 3) Read, write and speak Arabic — of that same message by the Promised Islam. The Ahmadis disseminated Islamic the common language of Islam; 4) Teach Messiahas who sought to establish the unity literature and converted black and white their children to be good Muslims; 5) Do- of God on earth and weld all nations into Americans. They attacked the distortions nate the interest gained from their bank ac- one by collecting all of them around one of Islam in the media, established counts to the propagation of Islam; 6) Build faith. In the words of the Holy Prophetsa of and reading rooms and translated the mosques in every town; 7) Promulgate Is- Islam, “In the latter days, the sun shall rise Qur’an into English…their goal was to alter lam in America; and 8) Join the Ahmadiyya from the West.”8 permanently the historic patterns of racial Movement. Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra and ethnic separation that existed among gradually grew more aware of the ingrained Dania S. Ahmed is a graduate of Barnard Muslims in America.”5 racism and bigoted attitudes of white Prot- College, Columbia University. She holds How could any of this be possible with- estant whites in the United States. He thus a B.A. in Religion and also studied out having genuine passion for Islam, the focused his attention on blacks. Turner fit- Psychology. perfect religion for guidance and progress tingly refers to this focus as a “potent multi- of man? It is really remarkable that from the racial synthesis of anti-imperialist and anti- Endnotes humble village of Qadian in India, the earli- Christian religious and political ideas.”6 In est foundations of Islam in America were addition, Bayoumi examines the identity is- 1Ahmad, Mirza Mahmud. “The Muslim Sunrise.” A found in some of the most vibrant and bus- sue in depth and discerns why African Message: Greetings 1.1 (1921) tling cities of the world such as New York Americans were especially captivated by 2 Bayoumi, Moustafa. “East of the Sun (West and Chicago. The fact that Mufti the message: “It is important to underline of the Moon): Islam, Ahmadis, and African America.” Journal of Asian American Studies Muhammad Sadiqra planted a seed in that Islam within the Ahmadiyya commu- 4.3 (2001): page 253 America through his missionary work, nity was not considered a religion just for 3 Cited in: Turner, Richard Brent. which gradually grew into a tree seems to Blacks but a religion in which Blacks had Islam in the African American Experience. be something that is often buried in history an alternative universal history to which to Bloomington, Ind.: Indiana UP, 2003 Page 118 and not disclosed. This accomplishment pledge allegiance.” One of the earliest is- 4 Bayoumi, Moustafa. “East of the Sun (West needs to be acknowledged. It was through sues of The Muslim Sunrise, a national of the Moon): Islam, Ahmadis, and African Mufti Muhammad Sadiq’s spiritual commit- publication started by Mufti Muhammad America.” Journal of Asian American Studies ment to Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas that this Sadiqra himself reveals that from the years 4.3 (2001): page 254-255 5 mission was fruitful. 1921-1925, 1,025 Americans converted to Turner, Richard Brent. Islam in the African American Experience, Bloomington, Ind.: Imagine the seed of faith being planted Ahmadiyyat. By the 1940s, there were ten Indiana UP, 2003. on Madison Avenue in New York City. Mufti thousand converts. Page 110 ra Muhammad Sadiq did just that. Dr. George “In the American context, then, Ahmadi 6 Ibid Baker and Ahmad Anderson were, as Turner thought opened a critical space for race in 7 Bayoumi, Moustafa. “East of the Sun (West reveals, among the first white Muslims in the realm of the sacred. In this way, African of the Moon): Islam, Ahmadis, and African the United States in the early 1900s. In an Americans could metaphorically travel be- America.” Journal of Asian American Studies, operation solely armed with jihad of the pen yond the confines of national identities. 4.3 (2001): page 256 and speech, Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra went They could become “Asiatics” and remain 8 : Sahih Bukhari Volume 6, Book 60, from city to city and gave lectures. In do- Black, could be proud of their African Ameri- Number 159 ing so, he garnered a unique identity as the can heritage and feel a sense of belonging first Muslim missionary in the United States. to and participation with Asia.”7

SUMMER 2010 17 A Friend of Islam, Alexander Russell Webb By Amtul Mussawir Mansoor

lexander Russell While in India, Webb expressed inter- Webb was born on est in meeting Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam November 9, 1846 in Ahmadas, but due to the opposition Hudson, NY to a against Ahmadas, Webb decided to forgo Presbyterian family. this meeting so as not to disrupt his He abandoned his fundraising. Later, Webb regretted not religion as a teen, and drifted into meeting with Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam A as materialism for the next 30 years. In 1884, Ahmad but remained in correspondence Webb embarked on a spiritual quest and with him until his death. In 1906, Webb started studying Eastern religions. After wrote to the Promised Messiahas stating: studying Buddhism and other Asian “Alas! I came to India but did not visit religions for several years, Webb found you, although it was through you that I none of them particularly satisfying but found the right guidance. In not meeting he took a keen interest in Islam. He had you, I tried to please some people so that come across a letter of Hadhrat Mirza they would give donations…Now I regret Ghulam Ahmadas, the Promised Messiah, greatly that I deprived myself of meeting in a newspaper inviting people to the a man of God for such people.”3 In 1910, religion of Islam and wrote to Hadhrat Webb assisted in revising the posthu- Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas expressing his mous translation of “The Teachings of interest (Ahmad, 157). He says in the “I am very grateful to Mirza Ghulam Islam” by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam letter that he is wavering with regard to Ahmad. It is because of him that I have Ahmadas. Even though Webb was in fre- what is the right path and he is searching had the honor to join Islam.”2 quent correspondence with the Promised for the truth.1 The correspondence In , Webb met with Messiahas, Webb never joined the Ah- between Alexander Webb and Hadhrat Badruddin Abdullah Kurr, a member of madiyya Muslim Community. Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas was cordial and the Municipal Council of Bombay, and In 1893, Webb arrived in New York, included literature about Islam. Hajjee Abdullah Arab, a wealthy mer- and began his work of propagation of While still studying Islam, in 1887, chant. The three agreed to work together Islam. Three months after his arrival, the Webb was fortunate to secure an appoint- for the propagation of Islam in America, first issue of the “Moslem World” was ment from President to the and their mission came to be known as published with Webb as the editor. This post of Consul General at Manilla, the The American Islamic Propaganda. was the first Islamic magazine published chief of the Philippine Islands. In Philip- Webb resigned his post as Consul Gen- in the U.S. The purpose of the magazine pines, he discovered certain books and eral of the United States. Before return- as Webb explains was: “to teach the in- documents written by Muslim authors ing to the U.S., Webb toured India, telligent masses who and what which he had not seen in the United Burma, Egypt, , China and Saudi Muhammad was, and what he really States. He spent all his free time study- Arabia to raise funds for his mission in taught, and to overturn the fabric of false- ing Islam. By the grace of Allah, Webb America. He also met several dignitaries hood and error that prejudiced and igno- became a Muslim in 1887. Webb has said, and delivered lectures. rant writers have been constructing and

18 MuslimSunrise supporting for centuries against Islam.” Sadly, the “Moslem World” survived only In September 1893, Webb was the 7 months due to lack of funding. Webb also built a “Moslem World only Muslim delegate to speak at Building” in New York City. Lectures on the first World Parliament of Islamic doctrines and customs were given on Friday evenings. Brief addresses and Religions in Chicago. He gave replies to allegations concerning Islam were arranged for Sunday afternoons. two lectures: “The Spirit of Islam” Webb started the earliest documented and “The Influence of Islam on in U.S. history located in the Moslem World Building. Webb initiated Social Conditions.” the scheme of “The American Moslem Brotherhood,” which was made up of in- the will of God. It means aspiration to Unfortunately, after a few years, his dependent societies in various cities and God. The Moslem system is designed to mission did collapse due to lack of fund- encouraged people to study and discuss cultivate all that is purest and noblest ing and choosing the wrong audience to Islamic history and doctrines among and grandest in the human character.”5 preach the pristine teachings of Islam. themselves. In this way, the convert After the World Parliament of Reli- Since he only preached to the educated would unite in a bond of brotherhood gions conference, Webb came back to elite, the lower class whites, immigrants, with other Muslims in the U.S., and use New York and gave a series of eight lec- and African Americans were deprived of his talents and energy to propagate the tures in a two-week period, regarding the knowledge of Islam. Islam would true faith wherever he could. Webb en- various topics in Islam. have appealed to those audiences, as visioned these study circles in every city Webb tirelessly continued his efforts seen in the Islamic movements of the 20th and eventually becoming into Muslim in the propagation of Islam, even when century. But Webb still stands as one of communities, which would stamp out im- Hajjee Abdullah Arab and his associates the outstanding figures in the early his- morality in America, but unfortunately, broke their contract with him and leaving tory of Islam in the U.S. He was the “first only a small number of circles were char- him with no funds. But his determina- American to take interest in tered.4 tion was unwavering. He says: Mohammedanism (Islam), and introduce In September 1893, Webb was the “Notwithstanding Hajjee Abdullah’s to his country.”7 He was indeed a friend only Muslim delegate to speak at the first failure to comply with the terms of his of Islam! World Parliament of Religions in Chi- contract, and in spite of the vigorous, cago. He gave two lectures: “The Spirit persistent and utterly unprincipled ef- Endnotes: of Islam” and “The Influence of Islam on forts of our enemies to destroy our mis- 1Ahmad, Mirza Ghulam. Shahna-i-Haq, 81-88. Social Conditions.” Part of “The Spirit sion, I have been enabled, with God’s Amritsar: Riadh-i-Hind Press. For text of correspondence between Webb and Ahmad, see of Islam” speech is as follows: help, to continue the good work under- Appendix C. “I carried with me for years the same taken for Islam, and the results have fully 2Singleton, Brent D. Yankee Muslim. 2007. 24. 3 Singleton, Brent D. Yankee Muslim. 2007. 24. errors that thousands of Americans carry equaled my expectations. God put it into 4Abd-Allah, Umar F. A Muslim in Victorian with them today. Those errors have grown the minds of faithful Mussulmans to America-The Life of Alexander Russell Webb. into history, false history has influenced come to my relief when help was most Oxford University Press: 2006. 161, 178-179. 5Barrows, John Henry et.al. The World’s your opinion of Islam. It influenced my needed, and if He spares my life, I will Parliament of Religions: An Illustrated and opinion of Islam, and when I began ten years perform to the best of my ability, all I Popular Story of the World’s First Parliament of Religions. Held in Chicago in Connection with ago, to study the Oriental religions, I threw promised to do under my contract with the Columbian Exposition of 1893. Chicago: Islam aside as altogether too corrupt for Hajjee Abdullah Arab. God knoweth the The Parliament Publishing Company, 1893. consideration…Now let us see what the hearts of all men and will judge us both.”6 989-996. 6Singleton, Brent D. Yankee Muslim. 2007. 44. word Islam means. It is the most expres- And with this determination, his lec- 7 “Muslim Brethren in Brooklyn.” New York sive word in existence for a religion. It tures continued and so did the American Times 6 Aug. 1893: 8. means simply and literally resignation to Moslem Brotherhood.

SUMMER 2010 19 Christian Missions in India Dr. Khaula Rehman lor, and Sir Bartle Frere, Governor of tianity for universal supremacy. Bombay. Without infringing the policy of This condition should serve to startle he British Empire at its religious neutrality, which was enunci- the Christian world. Missionary societ- height was the largest ated in the Queen’s proclamation that ies should give it most careful thought, empire in history and, for followed the suppression of the Mutiny, men specially suited by education and over a century, was the they made no secret of their personal temperament should be sent into the mis- foremost global power. faith, and contributed largely out of their sion fields located in Moslem countries, TThe British Empire, by 1922, held a private incomes towards the establish- with a view to their making a special study population of over a 458 million people, ment of new mission stations. Millions of the languages and literature, so as to one-quarter of the world’s population, of natives all over India became Chris- be able strongly to influence the Moslem and covered more than 13,000,000 square tians after 1857.2 mind in their preaching and teaching. As miles, approximately a quarter of the Rev. Elwood Morris Wherry (1843- the Spirit chose men specially fitted by Earth’s total land area. At the peak of its 1927) was an American Presbyterian mis- education and training for the work of power, it was often said that “the sun sionary to India who wrote a number of evangelizing the Greek and Roman Em- never sets on the British Empire” because books. He was sent with his wife as pire, let us pray God to send forth many its span across the globe ensured that American Presbyterian missionaries to men especially suited to the work of the sun was always shining on at least Rawalpindi in the Punjab in India in 1867. Moslem evangelization.”3 one of its numerous territories. In the Let me quote his vision about evangeliz- CHRISTIAN PREDICTIONS OF CON- nineteenth century the success of ing to the Muslims: VERTING WHOLE OF INDIA Christian missionaries paralleled the political success of the Empire. In 1851 the first attempt was made to count the number of Christians connected with the Anglican and Protestant missionary societies in India. The number of Christians in 1851 was 91,092, they formed 267 congregations.1 In 1857, North In- dia was convulsed with war and massacre and many Indian Christians and mis- sionaries were killed. The years which im- mediately followed witnessed a great ex- pansion of missionary effort especially in the northwestern prov- inces, particularly the Punjab. This de- “The religion of Islam, holding sway According to Indian Census report, velopment of missionary work was over at least two hundred and thirty mil- during the decade 1901-11 the population greatly aided by the support accorded by lions of Moslems constituting one-sev- of India as a whole increased by 6.4 per some of the officials who were respon- enth of the population of the globe, sec- cent, or, if we include the gain due to the sible for the government of the north- ond only to Christianity in numerical addition of new areas, 7.1 percent. The west. Amongst these were Sir John strength among the religions of the world Indian Christians increased during the Lawrence (Viceroy, 1864-69), Sir Robert and occupying many of the chief centers same period from 2,664,313 to 3,574,770— Montgomery and Sir Donald M’Leod, of influence in the Eastern world, com- that is, 34.2 per cent increase, or five times Lieutenant-Governors of the Punjab; Sir mands respect, in spite of its appalling as fast as the whole population.4 Charles Herbert Edwardes, General Reynell Tay- errors. It is indeed the only rival of Chris- Henry Robison writes in his book, His-

20 MuslimSunrise tory of Christian missions: their membership gathered from amongst touch with work amongst them in all parts “Those interested in the spread of the Mussulmans. In a few cases there has of the world, wrote: Christianity in India have sometimes tried been something like a movement towards “Without in any way underestimating to forecast the future and to estimate the Christianity, and a considerable number the new anti Christian attitude of some length of time which may be expected to have come out at one time. But perhaps educated Moslems and the pan-Islamic elapse before India becomes a Christian the fact which tells most clearly the story efforts of others to oppose Christian mis- country. Those who regard the future of the advance of Christianity among sions by every modern method of attack from a more hopeful standpoint are influ- Moslems in India, is this, that among the or defense, it yet remains true that the enced by a consideration of the mass native pastors and Christian preachers whole situation is hopeful to the last de- movements which are now in progress and teachers in North India there are at gree. The light is breaking everywhere. and by the anticipation that the caste least two hundred who were once follow- There never was so much friendliness, system which is the ers of Islam.”6 such willingness to discuss the question chief obstacle to the at issue, such spread of Christianity a large atten- will probably ere long dance of Mos- disappear as by a land- lems at Chris- slide. The fact that tian schools, 24,000 Moslems in the hospitals, pub- Dutch East Indies have lic meetings, become Christians and even within recent years for- preaching ser- bids them to despair of vices as there the conversion of the is today. … Indian Moslems, when What is true of they come to be sur- Egypt is true, rounded by a Christian mutatis population of the same mutandis, of race and speaking the Turkey, Persia, same languages as India, Algeria, themselves. and Java, as It may be said: abundant tes- should the increase timony and re- which has been taking cent mission- place during the last 30 ary correspon- years be; maintained, in dence could 50 years’ time the Chris- show. And tians will number 1 in 21 what does it all of the population, in 100 years they will mean? It number 1 in 5, and in 160 years the whole Dr. Imad-ud-din, a Christian mission- means that we should press forward with population of India will be Christian.”5 ary, in the course of a paper sent to be all our might plans for the immediate Aspirations and analysis of other mis- read at the religious conference held at evangelization of these educated classes. sionaries was not much different. Refer- Chicago, wrote: “There was a time when They are adrift, and the Gospel alone can ring to the prospects of Muslim missions the conversion of a Mohammedan to give them new anchorage. . . . They have in India, Wherry writes: Christianity was looked on as a wonder. lost faith in the old Islam and reach out “The accessions from Islam, espe- Now they have come and are coming in to new ideals in ethics. Who can satisfy cially in Northern India, have been con- their thousands.” At the end of his paper them but Christ? This is the missionary’s tinuous during all the years since the he appended a list of 117 converts from supreme opportunity. If we can win the death of Henry Martyn. One here and an- Islam to Christianity who at that time were leaders of Moslem thought now, ‘reformed other there has been added to the Chris- occupying influential positions in the Islam will be Islam no longer,’ but an open tian Church, so that now, as one looks State or in the Church in India.7 door into Christianity.”8 over the rolls of Church membership, he The general feeling among the Euro- Encouraged by all these analyses, is surprised to find so many converts peans was that the prospect of commend- Robinson wrote: from Islam, or the children and children’s ing the Christian faith to Muslims was “The task of converting the Moham- children of such converts. In the North, never as bright as in the nineteenth cen- medan world to Christ is indeed a hard especially in the Punjab and the North- tury given the political and technologi- task but it is not an impossible one. Eight West Province, every congregation has cal supremacy of the European Chris- centuries have passed since Pope Urban a representative from the Moslem ranks. tians. Dr. Zwemer, one of the best known II stood in the market-place at Clermont Some of the Churches have a majority of missionaries to Muslims, who was in and explained to the vast assemblage

SUMMER 2010 21 there collected the proposal which was ments were futile, they resorted to cheap then under consideration for attempting Around the latter half of the tactics. Dr. Henry Martin Clark was a to crush by force of arms the Moham- nineteenth century, Islam in Christian missionary working in Amritsar, medan power of the East. As those near Qadian in India. In August 1897, Dr. present listened to his impassioned ap- India was being ruthlessly Clark brought a charge against Ahmadas peal and to his demand to sacrifice, if attacked by the Christians in the court of the District Magistrate. need be, their lives in the campaign to Dr. Clark accused Ahmadas of instigating which he invited them, the whole assem- and the Arya Samaj, a a young man by the name of Abdul blage exclaimed with one voice, ‘It is the militant sect of the Hindus. Hameed to murder him. will of God.’ ‘It is indeed the will of God,’ The case eventually came up before said the Pope; ‘take, then, this word as Under the favorable climate the court of Captain M. W. Douglas, the your battle-cry, and go forth to victory of the British rule, the Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur. in the name of Christ.’ To those who have Abdul Hameed was properly tutored by ears to hear, a call comes not unsimilar to Christian missionaries were the opposition and told a pre-rehearsed that which shook Christendom eight cen- spreading their religion with story to the court. Captain Douglas, how- turies ago, but it is a call to a nobler and ever, felt uneasy about the testimony of more difficult crusade than any which the great force and speed. Abdul Hameed and asked the District Su- Middle Ages conceived, to one, too, perintendent of Police to question him. which requires 110 less courage and no force and speed. The Muslims in India On interrogation, the youth burst into less perseverance than those which the were completely heedless to this deterio- tears and admitted that he had been ly- Crusaders displayed, but in the prosecu- rating situation and Islam in the country. ing throughout the case. He then made a tion of which we too may take as our It was in such circumstances that full statement saying that he was pres- as watchword with unfailing confidence, ‘It Mirza Ghulam Ahmad took up his pen sured by other people to lie against is the will of God.’”9 in defense of Islam and to prove its Ahmadas. After this, Captain Douglas ac- Robinson was misreading the will of excellences. For this reason he started quitted Ahmadas with due honor and the God, in linking the missionary zeal with writing a great book called Braheen-e- case against him was discharged. This the crusades. Despite the planning, hard Ahmadiyya, meaning Proofs of Ah- is the story of the rise and the fall of the work and early success of the Christian madiyyat. The four volumes of this book Christian missionaries in India, which is missionaries, God had other plans. There were published between 1880 and 1884 being repeated in all parts of the world, were prophecies of the Holy Prophet while the fifth volume was published in in keeping with the divine promise: Muhammadsaw that in the latter days a 1905. He did break the cross according “He (Allah) it is Who has sent His Messiah will come within Islam and break to the prophecies, slowly but surely by Messenger with the guidance and the Re- the cross. refuting the false doctrines of Christian- ligion of truth, that He may cause it to Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas was ity, one by one. His third successor, prevail over all religions, even if those that Messiah. Leading Christian mission- Khalifatul Masih III, Hadhrat Mirza Nasir who associate partners with God hate it.” rh aries of the time like Padre Thakurdas, Ahmad said in 1967, at Wandsworth (Al Qur’an 61:10 & 9:33) Padre S. P. Jacob, Rev. Dr. Griswold, Fateh Town Hall, London, England: Masih, Waris Masih, Imad-ud-din, Siraj- ”Since these prophetic utterances Endnotes were made, the world of religion has been ud-din, Abdullah Atham, and Henry 1 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian Martyn Clark, worked their utmost to op- completely transformed. The vast conti- nent of Africa, instead of joining the missions. T & T. Clark, , 1915. Page pose him. Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas 90. was alone except for a few penniless Mus- ranks of Christianity, is gathering under 2 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian lims who had gathered around him. He had the banner of Islam. In India, the Chris- missions. T & T. Clark, Edinburgh, 1915. Page 93 tian missionaries fight shy of facing even 3 Islam and Christianity in India and the no power, no money, and no political back- Far East By Elwood Morris Wherry. Fleming H ing. But He Who is the Lord and Master inexperienced young Ahmadies. The wish of hoisting the Christian flag over Mecca Revell Company, 1907. Page 44. of all was his helper. It was He Who com- 4 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian missioned him to proclaim to the world remains and shall ever remain a vain de- missions. In the chapter of Missions to Moslems. 10 5 that the days of the revival of Islam were sire.” Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian The Christian missionaries were not missions. T & T. Clark, Edinburgh, 1915. Page 119. at hand and that the day was not far when 6 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian Islam would triumph over all other faiths amused by this sudden and unexpected turning of the tables in Hadhrat Mirza missions. T & T. Clark, Edinburgh, 1915. Page 469- through its spiritual power. 470. Around the latter half of the nine- Ghulam Ahmad’s time, in favor of Islam. 7 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian teenth century, Islam in India was being missions. T & T. Clark, Edinburgh, 1915. Page 470. ACCUSATION OF MURDER BY 8 International Review of Misssions, October, 1914. ruthlessly attacked by the Christians and 9 Charles Henry Robinson. History of Christian the Arya Samaj, a militant sect of the Hin- DR. MARTIN CLARK missions. T & T. Clark, Edinburgh, 1915. Page 471- dus. Under the favorable climate of the 472. British rule, the Christian missionaries When the Christian missionaries felt 10 http://www.alislam.org/library/books/ were spreading their religion with great that their efforts to refute Ahmad’s argu- messageofpeace/messageofpeace.pdf

22 MuslimSunrise BBC Documentary: Did Jesus Die? Lubna Roohi Malik

id Jesusas die on the cross? This is the question that the 2007 BBC Documentary Did Jesus Die? seeks to resolve. This short documentaryD that is available in three parts on YouTube presses Christian on tough issues and presents a possible logical explanation that results from the canonical texts when examined from a historical vantage point. With expert opinions from world-renowned religious and historical studies scholars from Oxford University, Princeton University, and the University of North Carolina, this documentary pieces together a possible explanation of the life of Jesus Christas. The following covers the main points of the documentary. In Christianity, Jesus Christ’s resurrection serves as the basis of the faith. To question this idea is heretical. In recent years, however, more and more scholars and theologians within the Christian tradition are beginning to doubt the accuracy of the Gospels and the very idea that Jesusas ascended to Heaven. The difficulty these scholars face is in trying to create a cohesive narrative from the Gospels. The scholars agree that history shows that only the most horrible crimes were punished by crucifixion. Nails are hammered into the hands and feet; however, it is not from the pain or wounds that the crucified die, but from suffocation. The immense dead and placed in the tomb. Even from Pilate to take Jesus’ body, and strain on the legs makes it impossible Pilate, the Roman governor, was laid it in a tomb. There, Joseph and for one to breathe after days of ex- shocked that Jesusas could have died Nicodemus brought one hundred haustion. To quicken the process, so quickly; however the centurions pounds of aloe and myrrh. Why did the legs are often broken. However, assured Pilate—one centurion who they take so much of these herbs? all of the Gospels agree that Jesusas had stated that Jesusas was the son Were these healing herbs? Was was placed on the cross for between of God. How did Jesusas die so fast? Jesusas “resurrected” or “resusci- three and six hours and was pre- tated”? Some scholars argue that sumed dead at the end of that time The Gospels are also in agreement modern people confuse “resurrec- period. Unlike the two men who were that following this declaration of tion” to be “life after death.” In He- crucified with Jesusas, Jesus’ legs Jesus’ death, Joseph of Arimathea brew, the word for “resurrection” is were not broken; he was presumed and Nicodemus gained permission the idea for a life to be resuscitated

SUMMER 2010 23 or come back. There are many sto- than they are about the resurrection. there is a story about the 10 tribes ries from the modern world where in- Nowhere in the original Gospels is that were taken northeast by the dividuals are deemed dead, but are there any mention of ascension. It is Assyrians in the 8th century BC. then resuscitated to life. However, if not until the verses that were added These tribes are known as the Lost the language were really to be into the Gospels 200 years later that Tribes. Thus, scholars speculate pressed, modern-day resuscitations mention of ascension is made. Mat- that if Jesusas believed he was the could be called “resurrections,” mak- thew mentions no ascension and John Messiah, he might have traveled east- ing hospitals fostering thousands of simply says that Jesusas did many ward to seek out these Lost Tribes. these daily. other things in his life that could not In agreement with the scholars’ There is a theory that Jesus’ dis- all be written. theory about Jesus’ travels, the ciples sedated him on the cross. This But if Jesusas was to leave, would people of Kashmir refer to them- is a possibility because the disciples not his disciples wonder when he selves as Bani Israel, or Children did give Jesusas some vinegar sub- would return? The Gospels agree of Israel, possibly linking them to stance on a sponge, immediately af- that the disciples were expecting descendants of the Lost Tribes. In ter which Jesusas said, “It is fin- Jesus’ return, but not necessarily in Kashmir there are stories of a man a miraculous named Isa who came to the area in manner. Jesusas the first century when he was in his Romans crucified messiahs and left, whether by thirties. The description of Isa as a as ascension or healer and shepherd nicely continue if Jesus survived, what was he to traveling else- the story of Jesus’ ministry, and do? Christian theology solves where, Jesusas there it is said that in the local left. He did not Temple of Solomon in Kashmir, there this issue by miraculously saying permit his dis- was an inscription from Isa claiming ciples to join that he was Jesusas from Israel. Isa he was bodily taken into Heaven, him, but told is said to have died around 80 AD them that he and is buried in a tomb in Srinagar, but the original texts are even would return. Kashmir. Interestingly, the above- Some scholars ground portion of Isa’s grave is more unclear about this issue agree that pointing north-south in the Islamic Jesusas did not manner, but the body itself is buried than they are about the mean that he east-west in the Jewish tradition. resurrection. would return on Nothing short of excavation would the Day of Judg- truly prove who Isa was, but near his ment as modern grave are his carved footprints, ished,” and appeared to perish. Christianity alleges, but that he which reveal significant marks, Scholars agree that there are stories would come back later in his own life- scars, and misalignment of the of people surviving crucifixion in time. toes—as if the man had been nailed Jewish history. Regardless of when Jesusas was to on a cross with his left foot on top The next day, the tomb was found return or in what form, Jesusas left. of his right. empty. People assumed that either In examining the geography of the Many, including the Ahmadiyya someone had stolen Jesus’ body or Roman Empire, if Jesusas were to go Muslim Community, believe Kashmir carried it away, or that God had raised to France (as some suggest) or west- is where Jesusas spent the majority Jesusas bodily into Heaven. The Gos- ward, he would be going further into of his life and died. If true, Jesusas pels, in fact, discuss how Jesusas was the Roman Empire. Such a decision did not die on the cross and was not alive and spoke and ate with his dis- would be a suicide mission. However, resurrected. If true, Jesusas did not ciples. Thus, Jesusas could not have if he were to head eastward, he would ascend into Heaven and does not clinically died on the cross. be going toward Persia and then into now sit at the right hand of God. If But, where was Jesusas to go if he Afghanistan and India. If Jesusas true, for many Christians, this would was alive? Obviously all who saw was the Jewish Messiah, then it be the end of Christianity as they Jesusas would view his resuscitation would make sense for him to have know it. as an act of God. But what of the gone eastward. As a Messiah, practical political problem? Romans Jesusas had two duties: (1) to bring crucified messiahs and if Jesusas sur- world peace and justice and defeat Lubna Roohi Malik is a law student vived, what was he to do? Christian evil, and (2) to gather the scattered at the University of Chicago Law School. She graduated with an A.B. theology solves this issue by miracu- tribes of Israel back to the land of in Public Policy and International lously saying he was bodily taken Israel. The Jews of today comprise Affairs from Princeton University, into Heaven, but the original texts are only one of the Jewish tribes, the and also studied Human Rights at even more unclear about this issue Tribe of Judah. In the Hebrew Bible Oxford University.

24 MuslimSunrise From Jesus to Christ: the Early Christians

Reviewed By Zia H Shah MD For a believing Muslim these verses give siah. The best way to demonstrate the his is a four hour PBS documentary the essence of how the early history of Chris- Jewishness of Jesus, is through the study of about the early history of Christians, tianity started in the time of Jesus, may peace early Christianity history. which can be seen in the video be upon him. The Trinitarian Christians, un- One fact that links Christianity to Judaism T 1 section of Google.com. Let us start our der the influence of St. Paul have a fairly dif- clearly is the history of circumcision. It was review with two verses of the Holy Qur’an. It ferent idea about early Christianity and they to be the external marker of the covenant given states: try to find and defend their religion by claim- by God to the prophet Abraham, may peace ing orthodoxy of Pauline’s views. In this per- be on him.3 The early Christians continued to “And when Allah will say, “O Jesus, son spective it becomes important for all seekers practice this ritual. The first Christian Church of Mary, didst thou say to men, ‘Take me and of truth to know as much as possible about Council in Jerusalem, held in approximately 50 my mother for two gods beside Allah?’”, he the first three centuries of the Christian his- AD decreed that circumcision was not a re- will answer, “Holy art Thou. I could never say tory and this four hour PBS documentary that quirement for Gentile converts. This became that to which I had no right. If I had said it, is available online should be a good start. known as the ‘Apostolic Decree’ and is one Thou wouldst have surely known it. Thou How did Jesus fit into his native religious of the first acts differentiating early Christian- knowest what is in my mind, and I know not context, late Second Temple Judaism? And ity from Rabbinic Judaism. The Coptic Chris- what is in Thy mind. It is only Thou Who art how do we explain the momentous shift in the tians continue to practice circumcision, even the Knower of hidden things. “I said nothing make-up of the movement, from almost exclu- today, a stark reminder that it was only the to them except that which Thou didst com- sively Jewish to increasingly Gentile, to which Pauline Christianity that broke away from this mand me — ‘Worship Allah, my Lord and your Paul’s letters, mid-first century, attest?2 The tradition and not all the early Christians. Lord.’ And I was a witness over them as long devout Christians want to see Christianity Early Christianity was inseparable from as I remained among them, but since Thou rather independent of Judaism, but to the 1.5 Judaism. Jesus was a Jewish prophet and didst cause me to die, Thou hast been the billion Muslims and the secular scholars, when he was put on the cross the inscription Watcher over them; and Thou art Witness over Jesus was a Jewish prophet. This documen- on top of the cross was ‘the king of the Jews.’ all things.” (Al Qur’an 5:117-118) tary highlights that he was the Jewish Mes- Gradually, Christianity came to be a separate

SUMMER 2010 25 and dramatically different religion from Juda- from sleep. Salvation is nearer to us now than as follows: ism. How did this come about? This is what when we became believers.” [Romans 13:11] “The effect that the crucifixion had on the documentary is about. As we demonstrate In this regard Prof. Michael White remarks Jesus’ followers was the desired effect, from the links of Jesus with Judaism in history and in the documentary, “It’s clear that one of the the Roman perspective— that is, that people archeology, our invitation of the Islamic truths concerns that keeps showing up throughout who were associated with Jesus were terri- to the Trinitarian Christians, becomes more this period of Paul’s ministry is ‘When is this fied. I mean, before the Easter proclamation, comprehensible to them. The Holy Qur’an Kingdom going to arrive? What’s going to there must have been some sort of Easter panic, says: happen, how soon?’” you see, that folks were hiding out, as they “And the Jews say, ‘The Christians stand The early Christians are still, 25 years after should have, because now they were accom- on nothing;’ and the Christians say, ‘The Jews the fact, anticipating the imminent return of plices of an executed criminal.”5 stand on nothing;’ while they both read the Christ and the imminent arrival of the King- It was in this climate, where the early Chris- same Book. Even thus said those who had no dom. Paul’s very first letter, the earliest single tians were afraid of being counted as accom- knowledge, like what they say. But Allah shall writing that we have in the New Testament, is plices and at the same time not accepting what judge between them on the Day of Resurrec- I Thessalonians, and already in I seemed to be a shameful death on the cross, tion concerning that wherein they disagree.” Thessalonians Paul is having to console them that the legends grew around the testimonies (Al Qur’an 2:114) when people are starting to die within the con- of the apostles that twenty years later became Studying early Christianity helps us fully gregation and the Kingdom hasn’t arrived yet. subject of Paul’s letters and preaching and appreciate the logic of this verse of the Holy Paul believed the earthly world order was about forty years from the crucifixion became the Qur’an. Early Christianity, after the First Re- to change, that time volt in 70 AD, gradually grew apart from Juda- was running out and ism and established itself as a predominantly the end was at hand. Gentile religion. According to the documen- Paul alludes in a Paul was demonstrably tary, “It’s very important that we remember number of his letters wrong about his that up to and through the First Revolt, Chris- to the message that tians are still part of Judaism, and the revolt he would have com- apocalyptic message. and its aftermath is just the beginning of a municated verbally. split, as each group tries to rethink its earlier He emphasizes two What else was he wrong traditions in the light of the failure of the First things: on the one about is the fundamental Revolt.” hand, very clearly the The earliest followers of Jesus composed importance of the question for every an apocalyptic, Second Temple, Jewish sect, death and resurrec- which historians refer to as Jewish Christian- tion of Jesus; on the student of Christianity. ity. The Apostles of Jesus Christ were all other hand, he also apocalypticists who preached to their follow- emphasizes the im- ers that the world would end within their own portance of understanding the end time and material for Mark’s Gospel, the earliest of the lifetimes. The apocalyptic preaching of the the immediacy of the end time, and that one four canonical gospels. The Christian apolo- Apostles is well known and accepted as his- must be prepared for it, and the way one pre- gists put so much emphasis on orthodoxy of torical by religious and secular scholars due pares for it is to be good. We find a lot of their beliefs and base their belief in resurrec- to extensive extra-biblical historical accounts ethics in Paul, and it’s around this issue of tion on the testimony of the apostles of Jesus of their lives. The Pauline tradition has painted how one lives in anticipation of the end time Christ but then fail to take the fact that the Jesus and John the Baptist also in the colors that’s just around the corner for Paul.4 canonical Gospels are not written by the of apocalyptic message. Paul was demonstrably wrong about apostles, to its fullest conclusion. Prof. Paula Fredriksen, who is one of the his apocalyptic message. What else was The canonical Gospels of Mathew and documentary’s commentators, is a scholar of he wrong about is the fundamental ques- John are only attributed to the apostles. Mark the historical Jesus. While some historians tion for every student of Christianity? The and Luke were not among the apostles of interpret the historical Jesus as a non-apoca- Holy Qur’an does not present an apoca- Jesus. The Gospels of Thomas, Philip and lyptic ethical teacher, she sides with those who lyptic Jesus. For example, the Qur’an Peter have been discovered but do not serve portray him as an apocalyptic preacher. documents that Jesus was praying for the the purposes of the Trinitarian Christians. Paula Fredriksen says, “We’re hampered long term prosperity of his followers: Ernest Brougham Docker, an Australian judge, by our vocabulary. We know that this group “Said Jesus, son of Mary, ‘O Allah, our examines the limitations in the so called testi- will eventually form a Gentile community and Lord, send down to us a table from heaven mony of the apostles about resurrection in they’ll be known as Christians. But this group spread with food that it may be to us a his book, If Jesus did not die upon the cross: didn’t think that. This group expected Jesus festival, to the first of us and to the last of A study in evidence. to return and establish the Kingdom of God.” us, and a Sign from Thee; and provide Paul preached the imminent arrival of God’s sustenance for us, for Thou art the Best The last supper Kingdom on Earth and salvation for those of sustainers.’” (Al Qur’an 5:115) He makes several strong points against converted to Jesus. “You know what time it is, The documentary describes the effect resurrection of Jesus, but one that can be de- how it is now the moment for you to wake of the crucifixion on the early Christians scribed in a few lines is quoted here:

26 MuslimSunrise its earlier traditions in the light of the failure of the First Revolt. It was only 100 years after Jesus The Bar Kokhba revolt (132–136) against was put on the cross that the Jewish the Roman Empire was the third major rebellion by the Jews of Judaea Province and the last of expectations of a coming Messiah the Jewish-Roman Wars. At the time, Jewish Christians were still a minor sect of Judaism, receded. And Christians now looked and most historians believe that it was this to the distant future for the return of messianic claim in favor of Bar Kokhba that alienated many of them, who believed that the their Messiah. true Messiah was Jesus, and sharply deepened the schism between Jews and Christians. It was only 100 years after Jesus was put on cross “His forebodings to His disciples, I firmly divine, celebrating God as Father and Mother. that the Jewish expectations of a coming Mes- believe; I am equally convinced that He did Still others suggest that Christ’s resurrection siah receded. And Christians now looked to not predict His rising again. The Conduct of is to be understood symbolically, not literally. the distant future for the return of their Mes- the disciples after crucifixion shows that they A few radical texts even denounce catholic siah. The Kingdom of God was becoming less had no expectation of a resurrection; and it is Christians themselves as heretics, who, al- an apocalyptic vision than a spiritual abstrac- altogether incredible that they could have for- though they ‘do not understand mystery. … tion. According to the documentary: gotten a prediction so remarkable.”6 7 This short boast that the mystery of truth belongs to them “The self-consciously apocalyptic and booklet can be read online. alone.’ Such gnostic ideas fascinated the psy- messianic identity of Bar Kokbha forces the Let us consider another example here. choanalyst C. G. Jung: he thought they ex- issue for the Christian tradition. And at that What does the fact that the term of ‘Trinity,’ pressed ‘the other side of the mind’—the spon- point, we really see the full-fledged separation was not even coined till 200 AD, say about any taneous, unconscious thoughts that any or- of Jewish tradition and Christian tradition be- orthodoxy in basic Christian beliefs? It took thodoxy requires its adherents to repress.”10 coming clear. It is a defining moment in history. 450 years, and 4 Ecumenical Councils to articu- The two heirs of an ancient faith, rabbinic Ju- late Trinity, that was opposed to the Jewish EPILOGUE daism and upstart Christianity, would now fol- understanding and is opposed to all known According to the Book of Acts, Christian- low separate paths.” religions. To a non-Christian it would seem ity began at a single place, at a single moment In conclusion, the separation of Christian- fairly natural that if God is going to send a mes- in time. Fifty days after the death of Jesus — ity from Judaism was a slow process, spread sage to mankind at least He will introduce Him- now known as Pentecost — a miraculous event over at least a full century. self and not wait for theologians to introduce took place. “And suddenly from heaven there Him 450 years later.8 9 came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, Zia H. Shah is a doctor practicing in sleep Elaine Pagels, talking about the diversity of and it filled the entire house where they were and lung disorders in upstate New York. Zia early church in the first and the second sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared is also the editor of the Alislam eGazette, an century, writes in the introduction of her book, among them, and a tongue rested on each of international publication of the Ahmadiyya the Gnostic Gospels: them.” [Acts 2:2-3] Muslim Community “The fifty-two writings discovered at Nag According to Professor Harold W Attridge Hammadi offer only a glimpse of the complex- of Yale Divinity School, “That’s the picture that Endnotes ity of the early Christian movement. We now we get in Acts. The historical reality is prob- begin to see that what we call Christianity— ably much more complex. And the Christian 1http://video.pbs.org/video/1365214164/ 2 and what we identify as Christian tradition-ac- movement probably began not from a single http://www.bibleinterp.com/articles/ fredricksen_JesustoChrist.shtml tually represents only a small selection of spe- center, but from many different centers where 3 Genesis 17. cific sources, chosen from among dozens of different groups of disciples of Jesus gathered 4http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/ others. Who made that selection, and for what and tried to make sense of what they had expe- shows/religion/etc/script1.html reasons? Why were these other writings ex- rienced with him and what had happened to 5http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/ cluded and banned as ‘heresy’? What made him at the end of his public ministry.” The most shows/religion/etc/script1.html them so dangerous? Now, for the first time, we important fact of early Christianity is that the 6Ernest Brougham Docker. If Jesus did not die have the opportunity to find out about the ear- more we find out about it, the more widely var- upon the cross: A study in evidence. liest Christian heresy; for the first time, the her- iegated a phenomenon it appears to be. London: Robert Scott Roxburghe House, etics can speak for themselves. Roman troops sacked the temple and car- Paternoster Row, 1920. Pages 39-40. 7 http://www.ahmadiyyatimes.com/files/ Gnostic Christians undoubtedly expressed ried off the sacred symbols of Judaism. Jerusa- IfJesusDidNotDieUponTheCross.pdf ideas that the (so called) orthodox abhorred. lem, the sacred city, the temple, the center of 8 http://knol.google.com/k/zia-shah/the-council- For example, some of these gnostic texts ques- piety and identity, is gone. It’s very important of-nicaea-and-the-three/1qhnnhcumbuyp/76# tion whether all suffering, labor, and death de- that we remember that up to and through the 9 http://knol.google.com/k/zia-shah/the-concept- rive from human sin, which, in the orthodox First Revolt, Christians are still part of Judaism, of-trinity-has-no-legs-to/1qhnnhcumbuyp/38# version, marred an originally perfect creation. and the revolt and its aftermath is just the be- 10 Elaine Pagels. The Gnostic Gospels. Random Others speak of the feminine element in the ginning of a split, as each group tries to rethink House, 1979. Introduction section, page xxxiv-xxxv.

SUMMER 2010 27 What Does Jihad really mean?

By Maham Khan

bservers need to understand: Those groups OOO that have taken itOO upon themselves to “I have come to you with an order: defend the name of Islam Jihad with the sword has ended from and in doing so, only bring it this time forward, but the jihad of disrepute, do not represent the entire Muslim world. purifying your souls must continue. I Such organizations are do not say this of my own accord. This politically motivated militant is indeed the will of God”. groups, which thrive on the religious sensitivities of Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas published a pamphlet in 1900, The British Gov- ernment and Jihad, suspending only jihad by the sword, not fully abrogating it. Muslims. Their justification, not only for their hostile actions but their sole lim scholar, well respected among Arabs and believer by the majority of them. Many South Asians, is one such person who trig- thought that he was ingratiating himself existence, is Jihad. gered this dangerous path to be taken by with the British Government by abrogating Jihad, its arabic root word being juhd’, many Muslims after him. In his book, Al- jihad, and hence forbidding a physical jihad implies a struggle, not a war as some may un- Jihad Fil Islam, he writes, against them. derstand. This struggle encompasses the “When every method of persuasion Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas pub- physical as well as the spiritual efforts made (over 13 years of preaching) had failed, the lished a pamphlet in 1900, The British Gov- in the path of God. Prophetsa took to the sword...that sword ernment and Jihad, suspending only jihad Such efforts do not include the Sep- removed evil...the sword did something by the sword, not fully abrogating it. In it tember 11, 2001 attacks, the 1979 Iran Hos- more. It removed their (disbelievers’) blind- he claimed: “I have come to you with an tage Crisis, the gruesome killings of David ness - they could see the light of the order: Jihad with the sword has ended from Dodge, President of the American Univer- truth...”.1 Maududi granted the permission this time forward, but the jihad of purifying sity in Beirut in 1982 and of Daniel Pearl, a to kill, owing to his interpretation of Islam’s your souls must continue. I do not say this journalist killed in Pakistan in 2002, not to early history. of my own accord. This is indeed the will of mention the inhumane video-taping of the Maududi gravely injured the peaceful God”. cruelty, and many other tragic and horrific image of Islam by declaring that it spread And in the Holy Qur’an God specifies events. Their perpetrators being Muslims by the fear of the sword. But is this the true what is required of His followers: “And We proudly hailed these bloody acts as their interpretation of jihad? have expounded the Qur’an to them in di- jihad. Such a disservice is done to the fair Toward the end of the 19th century, in verse ways so that they may take heed...So name of Islam by these suicide bombers and the British ruled Indian subcontinent, obey not the disbelievers and strive against murderers, who themselves have fallen prey Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas made the them by means of this Qur’an, a mighty to those who condone jihad bis saif or claim to be the Promised Messiah as well striving”, (25:51-53). Such a “mighty striv- jihad by the sword. as the Imam Mahdi awaited by the Mus- ing” is to be conducted on a daily basis in Maulana Maududi, a 19th century Mus- lims. He was however, denounced as a dis- a Muslim’s life. Only then can he hope to

28 MuslimSunrise rid himself of any inner weaknesses and ership or wage a physical jihad. Muslims ings and the wars he fought were purely rise spiritually by cleansing his soul as in The Punjab felt deflated under Sikh op- defensive. God promises: “He indeed prospers who pression and dared not rise against them; The sad part of their revisions is that purifies it,” (91:10). yet they deemed it fit to bring down the many supported the wars and killings and In 19th century India, with the com- new British Government, which essen- declared these bloody acts as jihad. Now ing of the British, Muslims were released tially acted as their savior. that grave harm has already been done from the yoke of Sikh rule in the province Maulvi Muhammad Hussein Batalvi, and non-Muslims are questioning this of The Punjab. Muslims would not “sur- to name one, who was a fierce opponent concept of jihad, Muslims themselves are vive the hatchets and spears of the of Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas described in his perplexed by it. The interpretation of jihad Sikhs”2, if they broke the law and dared book that India, “...despite being under that was handed down to them by their to perform the adhaan, the call to prayer. the rule of a Christian government, is a apparently learned scholars and pious Mosques were desecrated.3 Muslims were ‘land of peace.’ It is not permissible for imams, have brought shame upon Islam. not able to defend themselves; they did any king—be he an Arab or a non-Arab, Fighting for the freedom of a country is whether he is indeed jihad, but the way to achieve it is the Mahdi not by throwing sticks and stones or be- from Sudan ginning an intifada or kidnapping, mur- or Hadrat dering or committing suicide. Muslims “...and the response is that in Sultan Shah have only incurred more losses through this age, the jihad accepted of Iran, or such an interpretation of jihad. even if he is But the Ahmadi Muslims, followers of by the Ahmadiyya Muslim the Amir of Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, do not Khurasan— find themselves in such a precarious situ- Community is the reformation to fight them ation. They have never supported the in- of self”. in the matter terpretation of jihad that a physical war of religion”, must be fought in these days. Hence they (Iqtisad Fi have never needed to retract their belief Masa’il Al- regarding jihad. In the words of Hadhrat not have the strength to wage a justifi- Jihad pg 16). 5 Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba, the present Ca- able jihad against the oppressive Sikhs. The Holy Prophetsa proved by his own liph of the International Ahmadiyya Mus- After the dissolution of the Sikh kingdom, example that patience is a virtue. He along lim Community, “...in this age, the jihad “the Muslims of The Punjab were, for all with his companions were hounded day accepted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Com- practical purposes, granted their faith and night by their enemies, to force them munity is the reformation of self”.6 anew. Since a good deed demands a good to abandon their belief in the Unity of We can safely say that through the deed in return we should not renounce God. In the face of persistent humiliation past hundred years or so, jihad was meant the blessing that God has granted us in and beatings, the Muslims continued to to be a struggle against the self. With so place of Sikh rule as an answer to our struggle alongside their beloved Prophetsa much immorality and hatred being spread many tears and prayers.”4 who never commanded to retaliate when all over the world, it is a believer’s inner Therefore, what Hadhrat Mirza any one of them would be unjustly killed. struggle against these evils and tempta- Ghulam Ahmadas was promoting was that He displayed what jihad was and it is this tions that would lead him or her to vic- the idea of jihad bis saif or waging a war kind that he described to be the Greater tory in the Eyes of God. Any other jihad against a government that had come to Jihad. is nothing but a “rebellion”. 7 the rescue of the Muslims, negated the We have oft heard of the hadith (say- philosophy of jihad, as stated in the Holy ing of Prophet Muhammadsa) that upon Endnotes Qur’an: coming back from a battle, the Holy ”Permission to fight is given to those Prophetsa said that “we have returned 1. Murder in the Name of Allah, Hazrat Mirza against whom war is made, because they from a lesser jihad to a greater jihad”. This Tahir Ahmad, pg 13; Lutterworth Press. 2.The British Government and Jihad, Mirza have been wronged—and Allah indeed is what is described above as the struggle Ghulam Ahmad, pg 15; Islam International has power to help them...Those who have to cleanse one’s soul of weaknesses and Publications Ltd. been driven out from their homes unjustly to purify it. 3.The True Islamic Concept of Jihad, Mirza only because they said, ‘Our Lord is Al- But it seems, owing to the past extrem- Tahir Ahmad, www.alislam.org. lah’...” (22:40-41). ist acts carried out as jihad, that the 4.The British Government and Jihad, Mirza Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas was Lesser Jihad (jihad with the sword) be- Ghulam Ahmad, pg 15; Islam International not alone in his thinking. At that time in came the Greater Jihad. Yet despite this Publications Ltd. the Indian subcontinent, there were quite picture, many Muslim scholars and cler- 5. The True Islamic Concept of Jihad, Mirza a few scholars who were unanimous in ics are now preaching that fighting and Tahir Ahmad, www.alislam.org. 6.The True Islamic Jihad:Address delivered by harboring the opinion that India was not killing in the way of God, is not an honor- Mirza Masroor Ahmad, June 23rd 2008, a land of conflict for the Muslims for able thing; it is not what Islam stands for www.alislam.org sa which it would have become incumbent and the Holy Prophet never condoned 7.Ibid upon them to fight against an unfair lead- such violence in order to win God’s bless-

SUMMER 2010 29 Western Influence on Indian Muslim Thought in the 19th Century Mubasher Ahmad, M.A., LL.B.

n the 19th century, the Islamic By nature Islam is not against philoso- him) one was to teach the believers wis- countries could not escape phy. Philosophy takes it birth from within dom (2:152). One of the sayings of the the influence of Western the human tendency to love knowledge, Prophet is: “Pursuit of knowledge is a philosophy. Most of the wisdom and truth. Philosophy exercises duty of every Muslim, man and woman.” Muslim lands were colonized logic and rationality to explore the basic [Ibne Majah]. The Holy itself is by Europeans who had principles of existence that are usually named “al-Hikmah” the Wisdom (17:40), Iestablished the Western education taken for granted by people as realities, and al-Furqan — that which makes dis- systems there. In India, though the and it discusses values upon which hu- tinction between right and wrong, be- majority population was Hindu, but man conduct is based. It critically exam- tween truth and false (25:2). millions of Muslims inhabited vast areas. ines various concepts of knowledge and Since the first century of Islamic era English was the medium of high education tries to improve upon them. The Holy Muslim thinkers have engaged in discus- in Indian public schools, colleges and Qur’an also lays down great emphasis on sion on topics such as the existence of universities, and philosophy was taught the use of ‘Wisdom’ —‘hikmah’— in God, His Unity, His Omnipotence, and as one of the subjects for students of human affairs. The Holy Qur’an says: other Divine attributes. Subtle and arts, and thus the young Muslim minds “Whoso is granted the Wisdom has been thought provoking discussions took were exposed to the Western granted abundant good” (2:270). In other place among the Muslim philosophers on philosophical ideas. The Western words, to have wisdom and judicious in- subjects like the creation of the world out thoughts and information constantly sight are commendable qualities of a of nothingness, predestination, freedom reached Indian bookstores, libraries and good Muslim. According to the Holy of human will, nature of sin, and salva- homes, and the Western philosophy Qur’an, among the most important di- tion by works or by faith. Several schools started to have its bearing on Indian vinely inspired tasks of Prophet of thoughts emerged in early Islam. Muslim thinkers as well as theologians. Muhammad (peace and blessings be on The city of Alexandria in Egypt was

30 MuslimSunrise the cultural center where Greek-Hellenis- tic philosophy was well-preserved. In the middle of the seventh century, it was captured by Muslims, and towards the end of the eighth century, and by the beginning of the ninth century, Greek philosophical works of Aristotle, Plato, and Galen were translated by Muslims in Arabic. The Abbasid Khalifa al-Mamun founded the famous House of Wisdom in Baghdad in 830 AD as an institute of translation and learning. Eminent thinker Al-Kindi (795-866) was a master of Greek philosophy, and introduced philosophi- cal concepts that affected Islamic theol- ogy (ilm-e-kalam) for centuries to come. His attitude was that a philosophical ap- proach can reinforce the truth of the ar- ticles of faith found in the Holy Quran. The Western philosophy, mostly de- veloped among the Christians, became a challenge for Christian theologians to defend their beliefs rooted in the Bible. In India, the Muslim The French philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau (1712-78), the eminent German thinkers like Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) scholars and reformers and Hegel (1770-1831) had a deep influ- ence on the Western thought. In the eigh- teenth and nineteenth centuries, Europe could not match the was going through political, economical and social transformations. Scientific theory of evolution, developed by the intellectual superiority of English naturalist Charles Darwin (1809- 82), became a dilemma for theologians who had preached the Biblical story of Western philosophers, and Creation that the universe, including hu- man race, was created in seven days in a very specific sequence. Even the 19th they started to revise some century economical theories, like John Stuart Mill’s Utilitarianism influenced the moral and religious concept of good and basic doctrines of Islam or bad. If all that promotes pleasure, or re- duces pain is right, then the very basis of some religious meritorious works such to deny their validity. as sacrifice and suffering was negated. The Western philosopher Nietzsche took one step further by eroding religious merits of meekness and humility. He called these values as products of Euro- and to reach valid conclusions, is sub- ars employ philosophical norms and meth- pean “slave-morality.” Consequently, ject of logic. Aesthetics deals with the ods to prove the truthfulness of faith re- pleasure seeking trends and sensuality nature of beauty; and ethics is the study lated matters. However, the philosophers enhanced in the West. of moral values of human conduct. Phi- may not find some religious ideas as Philosophy has several branches. For losophy also exerts to analyze religious truth, and they tend to disapprove them. example, the nature of ‘existence’, or re- beliefs. The philosophy of religions In India, the Muslim scholars and re- ality of ‘being’ is examined in the field of tends to validate the beliefs and practices formers could not match the intellectual metaphysics. To inquire into the nature that conform to rationality, but rejects the superiority of Western philosophers, and of knowledge, falls under epistemologi- tenets that may not stand the test of rea- they started to revise some basic doc- cal discussions. How to reason correctly, soning. Theologian and religious schol- trines of Islam or to deny their validity.

SUMMER 2010 31 One group adopted “Naturalism” — the ing into lawless materialism. It is prob- cation. If all was preordained, then there Philosophy of Nature — as their guiding able, however, that should the creed of was no need to undergo any medical tool to reinterpret all religious thoughts. the Arabian Prophet receive acceptance treatment. He explained that “predestina- They claimed to gain trustworthy knowl- among European communities, such of tion” did not preclude the use of human edge of moral and religious truths only the rigid formalism which has been im- faculties or the power of God. In his book- by studying all natural objects through parted to it by the lawyers of Central Asia let, he wrote that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan scientific approach. This “Naturalist” and Irak will have to be abandoned.” himself was unaware of the true philoso- philosophy upheld the position that there In response to such diversion from Is- phy of prayer and had no personal expe- was nothing more than “Nature”, and all lamic beliefs and practices under the im- rience of its immense effectiveness. In basic truths were truths of Nature. All pact of the Western philosophy, Hadhrat his opinion it was a great mistake of Sir truths, therefore, should be validated by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian (peace Syed’s that he acknowledged the physi- reference to natural process of cause and be on him) (1835-1908) wrote extensively cal system, but denied the spiritual sys- effect. In other words, they rejected all and persuasively, utilizing the means of tem. He declared: “God has sent me as a that was considered “supernatural”, be- reasoning and rationality. He could see reformer of this age so that such mistakes cause it could not be experimented upon that the Muslim intellectuals were suf- as these could be removed from the ide- — a mystery beyond observation and fering from a defeatist mentality. To es- ology of the Muslims, and that the non- control. They asserted that matter was tablish the existence of One God, reality believers be offered the proof of the True the only reality, and that all that existed, of angels, and acceptance of prayer, he and Living God, and that the truth and including human consciousness, was a demonstrated their reality by providing greatness of Islam be proved through manifestation of matter, and obeyed the personal proofs of receiving God’s rev- fresh signs.” laws of nature. Clearly, this trend was elations, having contact with the angels Concerning the existence of angels, leading its followers to agnosticism and and his prayers being answered. He did he wrote: “Those people are to be pitied atheism. God was replaced by “Nature”, not deny the importance of logical rea- who, by being affected by the darkness and natural science became the Ultimate soning and use of rationality; he rather of false philosophy, deny the existence Judge for truth. based all his conclusions on cogent ar- of angels and satans, and reject the clear Then there were others, such as the guments. However, he did not limit his texts and proofs presented in the Holy Indian Muslim reformer Sir Syed Ahmad claims to natural sources only; he was Quran, and foolishly fall into the pit of Khan (1817-1898), who held to the doc- ever ready to prove that there was much heresy.”… “The external means which trines of Islam, but denied the validity of beyond material existence, and that there affect our spirituality and fulfill our spiri- some of its important beliefs, such as the was a paranormal world. He made it clear tual needs, as the sun and the moon and belief in existence of angels, and accep- that reasoning and intellect played impor- the elements help us with regard to our tance of prayer by God. For him reason tant roles in finding the truth, but these spiritual needs, are known by the name alone was a sufficient guide. He wrote a human faculties had limitations. He ac- of angel.” [A’ina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, book entitled “Ad-dua wal-istijabat” knowledged the importance of observa- Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 5, pp. 134-135 where he expressed the view that God did tion and experiment, but did not confine Footnote] not interfere in the laws of nature, every- the experiencing of the truth only Concerning revelations, he wrote: “As thing seemed predetermined, and there- through materialistic sources. Observa- God has invested man with the faculty of fore, prayer was merely a formality, a part tions and experiments depend on the use reasoning for understanding, to some of ritual worship. He argued that only of human senses, and at times human degree, of elementary matters, in the same under a natural impulse the believers re- senses do receive subtle knowledge and way God has vested in him a hidden fac- sorted to prayer at a time of need, but the full conviction through paranormal ulty of receiving revelation. When human prayer did not bring any real change; sources as well. In other words, reason- reason arrives at the limit of its reach, what was to happen would happen any- ing and rationality need further reinforce- then at that stage God Almighty, for the way. Similarly, another Muslim scholar of ment supplied by divinely inspired rev- purpose of leading His true and faithful eminence, Syed Ameer Ali (1849-1928), elation and vision. To provide evidence servants to the perfection of understand- wrote several books under the influence of the truthfulness of his arguments, he ing and certainty, guides them through of the Western philosophy, including A gave examples of his personal experi- revelation and visions. Thus the stages Critical Examination of the Life and ences of receiving revelations, and pre- which reason could not reach are tra- Teachings of Mohammed (1873), The sentation of miraculous signs. In addi- versed by means of revelation and vi- Spirit of Islam (1891), and The Ethics of tion, he made many prophecies based on sion, and seeker after truth thereby ar- Islam (1893), where he suggested modifi- the knowledge given to him by God, and rives at full certainty.” [Surma Chashm cations to the religion of Islam to make it those prophecies came to pass. Arya, Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 2, p. 87] acceptable in the West. In the Preface of He rebutted the erroneous opinions his book The Spirit of Islam, he declared: of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan in a booklet en- Imam Mubasher Ahmad is Missionary of “The Islam of Mohammad, with its stern titled Barakatud Dua (1893). He argued the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in discipline and its severe morality, has that Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s assertion of the Midwest Region. proved itself the only practical religion “preordained” matters, equating the ef- for low natures, to serve them from drift- fects of Prayer with the effects of medi-

32 MuslimSunrise News, Views and Reviews From the Archives, 1922

the Patriarch, Jesus Christ, etc. According to of drinking in the United States by law. Islam A Message Islam all of them were Moslems and all pro- has had this law since the 13th century and a claimed throughout the unity of God which is little more. Gambling is equally prohibited by sine qua non in Islam. As there is a process Islam and the day is not distant when the Regarding of slow but constant construction and de- characteristic features of Islam will be adopted struction in all earthly things; and old order by all civilized governments. The Ahmadia changes giving place to new, it is but natural Movement in Islam was the first to congratu- Islam that laws pertaining to religion may also be late America on its prohibition of drinking and To Whom It May Concern, revised, consolidated, amended and repealed I believe through Mufti Saheb who was then from time to time just as our man made laws in England. Salaams (or salutations to All) are subject to periodical changes to meet the Islam is an ideal religion and is such as no requirements of the time. As in earthly laws, human mind can invent a better. It has every r. Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, a the basic principle remains intact: say for in- virtue of Socialism. Islam preaches equality well known theologian and stance, the constitution or the form of gov- and brotherhood. It does not favor in the least Missionary of Islam connected ernment; so the fundamental principle of a color, race or creed distinctions. Islam is a with the Ahmadiyya Movement, religion such as in Islam is the Unity of God cosmopolitic religion and can make its home Dis now amongst you. If you have not seen or remains unaltered. Methods nay differ but the everywhere. It is as pleasing to the Princes as heard him just drop a letter to him asking him aim is always one and the same. it is to the hewers of wood and carriers of for some literature or information about his Islam is not a self-made religion but it water. Verily Islam is the source of happiness mission and you are sure to get a reply from claims to be as old as the world itself. Even in the world and after. All its religious obser- him. His very printed letterheading will give the Angels above proclaim and profess Islam vances aim toward the health and happiness you an impression of what he is and for what and nothing else. Islam has stood the test of of its followers. Islam never expects you to he stands. You will find a neat little block of all countries and it spread into India, China look on the world with disdain and do pen- his photo printed at the corner which will and elsewhere by meek and humble Moslems ances or suffer hardships or any unnatural tell its own tale. Face is the index of character and never by Government aid or through the thing. It has no forced dogmas or any myste- and so for a physiognomist it will speak influence of wealthy Missionaries. Islam does rious thing. It is a plain, simple and naked volumes of the latent light which he carries its work automatically once it is introduced truth. in his person. properly. The diamond, while buried in the It is true that our Mufti is not backed by In the beginning you will find the greet- earth, was apparently of no more value than a huge funds or magnates and plutocrats and ing of “As-Salam-o-Alaikum.” i.e., peace be common stone. It was when it was brought must be living plainly therefore, not in the upon you, one and all. This is one of the com- out from the mines and polished and cut and palatial or sky scraper buildings and hence mandments of Islam. Peace includes all sorts put in a position to catch the rays of light so would not be in a position to spend lavishly of peace, peace of mind, peace of body, peace that it could be shown off as its true worth in his propaganda. But you must realize this of individuals and of nations. Peace, as you that it was fully appreciated. It is just so with fact, that all great achievements in the do- know, is such an important thing that it may Islam. The Mufti represents Islam and the rays main of science or religion were only made by be called the very desideratum of human life. of light are reflected by his journal he Mos- plain livers and high thinkers. The day is not Peace is self-protection or self-defense and if lem Sunrise (4448 Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL, distant when Islam will count in America in you go a little further you will find peace an U.S.A.) its fold many worthy sons of America. Islam absolute or the biological necessity for the Islam is the only religion on earth that can never tells you to reject the prophethood of development of the whole world. You have stand the strictest test of Science. It has noth- Jesus Christ. Islam is a Monotheism and says made Peace Societies in America to espouse ing to recast or reshape like other religions to he was not son of God but the son of Mary. its cause, but the Mufti will tell you that this make it science-proof. Islam is the only cure Islam rejects Trinity which is undoubtedly a peace is the best watchword and the only for Materialism which has sprung up owing man-made theory and is not to be found in form of salutation in Islam and far superior to to the conflict between Science and Religion. the words of Christ or of Moses in his Old all known forms of salutes including the time- Every word of Koran bears the scientific truth Testament. indicating “Good Morning,” “Good evening,” hitherto known to man and if anybody who May God give light to all those who wish “Good Night” and so on. The Mufti will tell knows the modern science reads it carefully to follow the right path and as Koran says you that he preaches no new religion but the he will find copious matter in it to testify that “There is no compulsion in religion” and one and same which all prophets professed only God can thus reveal such scientific truths therefore Truth must bring into God’s path from Adam to our Lord Muhammad (peace be and nobody else. It is not the place to give or by scientific reasoning and good speeches. with his soul). quote verses now. I quote here however; a Islam is the only religion on Earth which few of many virtues of Islam just to convince Peace be unto you. verifies the divine mission of all the proph- those who have not known Islam through Qazi A. Latif, M.A., Ph. D., Journalist ets, for instance-Moses the lawgiver, Abraham original sources. Just look at the prohibition

SUMMER 2010 33 News, Views and Reviews Press Publications

I encourage Staples and those like her to As a leader, Gaddafi should call for inter- continue to clarify the difference between Is- faith understanding in Libya before waging lam and terrorism for such clarifications truly war against a country much more conscious benefit our great nation. After all, she is cer- of religious freedom than his own. tainly correct. Muslim or non-Muslim is not the issue. Originally printed in the March 2010 edition of the Originally printed in the 3/01/10 Scientific American

Originally printed in the 3/30/10 “Save the Planet” edition of the By Sohail Husain, Richmond Times-Dispatch Yale University, School of Medicine

Among several reasons cited in favor Terrorism Didn’t Cause These of educating women in “How Women Can Twisted Acts Save the Planet,” Lawrence Krauss cor- By Qasim Rashid, Richmond, Virginia rectly states that educated women “are less likely to accept fundamentalist ex- In response to my Correspondent of the tremism.” I believe that it is especially Day letter, “This Airplane Wasn’t a Terror At- important for Muslim groups such as the tack,” at least two letters have been printed telling me I am wrong. I cannot express my joy at reading these letters, for they struck at the underlying issue I sought to address. The fact is, I hope I am wrong. When Fox News, Time, and Vanity Fair la- beled Major Nidal Hasan a terrorist while Jo- seph Stack received a “True American Hero” Facebook group, I admit I was perturbed. Af- ter all, both Stack and Hasan acted alone in a twisted and violent approach to resolve their issues. Yet, the former received outright con- edition of The Register Citizen demnation, and rightfully so, while the latter sacrificed for all of us (as some held). How- Jihad for minaret ban? ever, to see a pronounced response from my fellow citizens telling me the two are one and By Zahir Mannan, the same provides reassurance that our na- Middletown, Connecticut tion does not equate Islam with terrorism. As Linda J. Staples so eloquently con- Does the banning of minarets alone war- cluded her letter, “Muslim or non-Muslim is rant jihad? Islam says no. not the issue.” She could not be more right. In fact, the Quran prohibits warfare except Few people recall that convicted domestic ter- in defense (22:40) or upholding religious free- rorist Timothy McVeigh, a Catholic, requested dom (2:194). Minarets themselves are not man- a Catholic priest to read him his last rites upon datory mosque structures. During the lifetime execution. Correctly, no one ascribes of Muhammad, mosques were built without McVeigh’s actions to Christian teachings. The minarets. Switzerland is the home of 400,000 Taliban to know that the founder of Is- terrorist actions of the KKK, a group com- Muslims and nearly 200 mosques. On what lam, the Prophet Muhammad, 1400 years posed entirely of Christians, have never once grounds, then, can Libyan leader Muammar ago told his followers that they could been considered justified as Christian teach- Gaddafi wage jihad against Switzerland while earn paradise by educating their daugh- ings, thankfully. Likewise, the 9/11 attackers his own country exudes evidence of religious ters. Could we all not come closer to a were vile terrorists and nothing more. To as- intolerance? The U.S. State Department reports more peaceful society, a paradise on cribe their actions to Islam promotes only mis- that Libya severely restricts the religious free- earth, by rediscovering the wisdom of understanding, discord, and is flat out wrong. doms of non-Muslim religious communities. educating the women of our planet?

34 MuslimSunrise News, Views and Reviews Viewpoints Islam and Muslims Should Not Scare You

Published in The Christian contributions to such diverse fields as jazz (Yusuf Science Monitor, March 3, 2010 Lateef), photojournalism (Adrees Latif) and min- iature art (Saira Wasim). By Amjad Mahmood Khan Islam is host to moderate and vibrant minority communities. For example, the Ahmadiyya Mus- he image of American Muslims is in lim Community – a dynamic, fast-growing interna- serious disrepair. A January 2010 Gallup tional revivalist movement within Islam – is Tpoll found that almost half of Americans America’s first Muslim organization (founded in hold an unfavorable view of Islam. About the 1920) and has vociferously denounced violent same number of Americans harbor personal “jihad” as a grave sin. American Muslims collabo- prejudice toward Muslims, according to the poll. rate with individuals of all faiths and traditions to These numbers become especially troubling improve their local communities on a regular ba- when we consider that two-thirds of the sis. Here in Los Angeles, the Center for Muslim- Americans polled admit to knowing little to Jewish Engagement at the University of Southern nothing about Islam. California has been at the forefront of promoting Why are many Americans distrustful of a mutual understanding. Yet all of this gets lost in a religion and people they know very little about? wave of negative headlines. People tend to fear what they do not under- Extreme personalities have painted Islam with stand. Americans, for the most part, have been broad strokes, and much – though not all – of the brought up in a Christian society. They might media have allowed them to. This must change. not agree with it, but they are familiar with it and Whose burden is that? The news media bear thus tend not to feel threatened by it. Because Muslims as “fascists,” or Ann Coulter calls Is- the primary responsibility. Isn’t one of the main Islam is still a minority religion in America and lam “a car-burning cult,” it may get ratings but, purposes of the media to empower citizens to make has had little positive public exposure, Ameri- more than anything, it damages America’s per- informed decisions concerning their democracy? cans have built up a strong distrust of it. spective on Islam and Muslims. Then there is the Sensationalizing or even mischaracterizing inci- Islam deserves a media makeover. At a time behavior of media pundits beholden to the 24- dents can greatly influence how citizens treat one when the United States is mired in two wars in hour news cycle. Each time CNN runs a story on another; it can also influence US policy. locations where the majority of the people prac- the self-proclaimed “Jihad Jane” or Fox News By leaving out the full picture, the news media tice Islam, the future of American-Islamic rela- sounds off about Saudi women who can’t drive, can ultimately inflame public outrage to such an tions is at stake. without including an expert interview from some- extent as to facilitate ill-conceived legislation or The behavior of some radical self-proclaimed one who can clearly explain cultural context, an- engender popular vigilantism against American “Muslims” does not help public perception. other American grows weary of Islam and Mus- Muslims. To be sure, it is a difficult time in the Each time a terrorist commits a suicide bombing lims. US for journalism. In the 24/7 news and Internet in a hospital, or a religious cleric issues a fatwa Again and again it plays out: An extremist age, newspapers and TV news stations fight against Mickey Mouse, or Iranian President commits an atrocity in Islam’s name; a non-Mus- for their survival by becoming as attractive to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad denies the Holocaust lim ideologue typecasts the act as representative viewers as possible. But that doesn’t have to after 9/11, another American grows weary of of Islam; and a media pundit cements the stereo- mean accuracy should suffer. Islam and Muslims. type. This vicious cycle must end if attitudes to- The solution is rather simple: The news Those familiar with Islam understand that ward Islam and Muslims are to improve. Of course, media should make a concerted effort to get these acts are not representative of the religion it begins within Muslim communities and coun- comments from American Muslims to help give and shouldn’t be associated with mainstream tering extremists with education, but education in context when reporting on Islam and the multi- Islam. The rest of the US does not. Reporting the US is also required. tude of voices and movements within the reli- the acts of a handful of radical Muslims as if Americans deserve to hear a more accurate gion. That way Americans will understand that they are accurate portrayals of Islam would be portrayal of a religion and people that account for most American Muslims are as aghast as they akin to intimating that every priest involved in a a fifth of the world’s population. Thousands of are every time there is a “jihad” against America. scandal accurately represented Roman Catholi- American Muslims are fighting gallantly to de- There are plenty of American Muslim jour- cism. fend America in Iraq and Afghanistan. The West nalists and commentators willing to help put The behavior of ideologues who capitalize (even the Vatican) praise the ethical principles be- the news in perspective. In order to repair the on ratings or attention from fueling the fire hind Islamic banking services. There is a thriving image of American Muslims and fix the against Islam does not help US public percep- literary and artistic tradition within Islam. For ex- misperception problem, the media must work tion, either. Each time Pat Robertson refers to ample, American Muslims have made remarkable harder to help make the unfamiliar feel familiar.

SUMMER 2010 35 News, Views and Reviews Book Review

questions have not yet been linked to their tion that he would go in search of those Among respective answers. Also, somewhere in Israelite tribes that had been lost to Israel the middle of the book the author informs and find them. He also says “A prophet is us about the far-reaching Sufi statement: not without honor save in his own coun- the “We have taken the kernel of the Koran and try” (Matt 13:57). From the evidence pro- rejected the husk.” Therein lies the root of vided by Burke one has to conclude that the confusion and the apparent complexity Jesus did go after the Lost Sheep of Israel, Dervishes and inexplicability of the Sufi order. the Afghans, who still refer to themselves The author painstakingly tries to fig- as Bani-Israel. Burke also informs us that By O. M. Burke ure out the definition of the Perfect, or Com- from the oral accounts of these Afghan plete, man and finds bits and pieces of the Christians he gathered that Jesus had been First published in 1973 definition here and there. When you put there in his youth as well, before his cruci- all the pieces together it reads something fixion. Thus he knew he would be honored Reviewed by Shazia Sohail like “The Perfect or Complete man, after if he left his own country and went after the acquiring complete knowledge of what is lost Israelite tribes. right and what is wrong has total ability to The Christians that Burke found in Af- mong the act upon this knowledge, due to an inner ghanistan referred to themselves as Mus- Dervishes is an stillness acquired through the practice of lim and “regarded baptism, the Holy Ghost intense self-discipline. The Perfect man and the Kingdom of God to be three stages account of the enjoys complete independence from, rather in a system of human illumination.” Inter- travels of Omar abhorrence to, the good opinion of others, estingly enough, the man who first brought and exhibits supernatural powers periodi- to light the facts about Jesus Christ’s de- MichaelAA Burke, a man cally.” liverance from the cross and migration to determined to perfect his Burke sets out to solve a mystery and Kashmir, and travel to its surrounding area, succeeds in collecting an abundance of Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, and who also knowledge about the clues. Anyone with the knowledge of the claimed to be the Promised Messiah and mystical tradition, or cult, of Qur’an and some religious history can join Jesus the Muslims are awaiting, also inter- the dots and form a fairly accurate picture preted Islamic teachings in a similar man- Sufism. He travels far, of the over-arching divine plan. Quite ca- ner. He also taught that there were three wide, and certainly deep, to sually, in the middle of the book, he men- stages of spiritual development, with the tions that, around the area of Herat, Afghani- final stage closely resembling Burke’s defi- not only inquire about, but to stan, he comes across a village of some one nition of the Perfect or Complete Man. The live, practice, and thousand people who claim to be the fol- man who has attained the final stage called lowers of Jesus the son of Mary, of ‘the Soul at Rest,’ experiences ‘Heaven on experience the treasure ‘Nazara’, the Kashmiri, who had come and Earth’, which could also be referred to as house of Sufi knowledge lived among them after he migrated from the Kingdom of God. Palestine. At the end of the book he pro- These are just a few examples of the scattered across Asia, vides another clue that Afghans also refer connections to be made in ‘Among the Der- Africa, and Europe. to themselves as “Bani Israel” or the “Chil- vishes.’ There are many more to be made dren of Israel.” by an interested reader since the develop- One is impressed by Burke’s eager- Little did he know that because of these ment of Sufi rituals, practices, and lore is ness to believe that the answer to the chance discoveries his book would become guided by centuries’ worth of intuition and profoundest question related to the meta- one of the most widely quoted accounts on experience, and Islam claims to be closest physical realm is to be found by living the subject of the fate of Jesus Christ after to human nature, for the Qur’an advises us among the dervishes, who adopt extreme crucifixion since it validates both the Qur’an to “follow the nature made by Allah,” since austerity as a stage in the process to learn- and the Bible. The Qur’an states, “And We “that is the right religion” (30:31). One ing about being a Sufi. His refreshing open- made the son of Mary and his mother a Sign, comes across several practices, like the ness of mind, and complete lack of bias and gave them refuge on an elevated land whirling of the dervishes that try to take yields priceless nuggets of information that of green valleys and springs of running the short cut to sublime sensations and cir- even the author fails to appreciate the value water” (23:51). Israel does not fit the de- cumvent the process of attaining nearness of at the time. scription of lofty ground with springs and to God through service of humanity. But, Among the Dervishes reads like an un- valleys and “refuge” implies that they trav- as one of Burke’s Sufi friends puts it in the solved verbal jigsaw puzzle where all the elled. Kashmir, in the north of India, fits words of Rumi, “It is only because there is right questions have been asked and all the the description perfectly. such a thing as real gold that people are right answers have been provided, but the In John (10:16), Jesus gives an indica- taken in by counterfeit.”

36 MuslimSunrise News, Views and Reviews Book Review

Great Revolt. So, the ca- nonical gospels were not By Zia H Shah MD only influenced by what- ever written tradition ex- his is a book by Professor Bart isted before, including Ehrman. It was published in letters of Paul, possibly 2009 and has gathered the Q document (that may considerable popularity in the have been the actual United States. Some parts Injil),7 but also the oral Tof the book can be read online.1 traditions. Ehrman is an American New In a companion article Testament scholar and textual critic of about a PBS documen- early Christianity. He is the James A. tary, From Jesus to Gray, distinguished Professor and Chair Christ: the Early Chris- of the Department of Religious Studies, tians, I have discussed at the University of North Carolina, some of the early history Chapel Hill. He writes about the early of Christianity and how Christians, using the term “proto- important it is to fully orthodox” to describe the Christian understand the Qur’anic traditions that would later be defined verses about Christianity as orthodox. He describes first and and Jesus, may peace be second century Christians as not yet on him. In that documen- having a unified, orthodox tradition.2 3 tary describing the oral He has been teaching New Testament traditions it is said: for more than 27 years now. His “It appears that in be- criticism of the New Testament is at its tween the death of Jesus best when examined in light of the and the writing of the Muslim paradigm as defined in a book first gospel, Mark, that Christianity: a journey from fact to they clearly are telling fiction and a companion article about stories. They’re passing the early Christians in this volume of Muslim Sunrise.4 5 The Holy Qur’an states: “We (Allah) caused Jesus, son of A Book Review: Mary, to follow in their footsteps, ful- filling that which was revealed before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Jesus, Interrupted: Revealing Gospel which contained guidance and light, fulfilling that which was revealed the Hidden Contradictions in before it in the Torah, and a guidance and an admonition for the God-fearing.” (Al Qur’an 5:47) the Bible (And Why We Don’t The Qur’an is also quick to point out that the previous Scriptures have suf- Know About Them) fered interpolations and perversions at the hands of their scribes.6 “Woe, therefore, to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, None of the gospels were written un- on the tradition of what happened to “This is from Allah,”(Al Qur’an 2:80). til after the Great Revolt in 70 AD. So, Jesus - what he stood for and what he Until the last century the Christian inevitably their composition and selec- did - orally, by telling it and retelling it. apologists used to insist that the Bible tion was intertwined with political con- Meeting in each others homes, early is the literal word of God. The modern cerns and philosophies. Jesusas was put Christians told stories of Jesus’ scholarship of the Biblical scholars, on the cross around year 30 AD and the parables and miracles and of his suffer- however, has confirmed the Qur’anic first of the Gospels namely of Mark was ing and death. These were not histori- claims, made centuries earlier. not written until 40 years later after the cal accounts, but shared memories

SUMMER 2010 37 shaped by a common past. Legend and “In this chapter I will talk about witnessed the doings and sayings of myth and hymn and prayer are the ve- some of the important and interesting Jesusas and knew his biographical de- hicles in which oral traditions develop. discrepancies of the Bible that emerge tails - and whose recollections may have One could, for example, imagine that the when it is examined from a historical per- constrained the author’s inventiveness. oldest way in which the early Christians spective. Since my specialty is the New This population would shrink during told about Jesus’ suffering and death Testament, I will be dealing with the the decade or more before other gos- was the hymn that Paul quotes in kinds of problems that are found there. pels took shape, expanding creative Philippians 2.”8 But you can rest assured that very freedom. Ehrman explains: The Holy Qur’an affirms the truth of much the same problems can be found “And so the contradiction stands: all the previous revelations, which in- in the Old Testament as well-in fact, in Mark, Jesus eats the Passover meal clude those given to Mosesas and even more so. Whereas the New Testa- (Thursday night) and is crucified the Jesusas. However, the Qur’an also ment, consisting points out that all the previous books of twenty-seven were sent for specific nations and times. books, was writ- As those books were not final and uni- ten by maybe The whole of Ehrman’s versal, they were not provided the spe- sixteen or sev- cial protection against interpolations, enteen authors book is about as was granted to the Holy Qur’an, over a period of which was revealed as the Final Guid- seventy years, ance for all peoples and times.9 The the Old Testa- contradictions in the Christian scholars today are confirming ment, the Jew- what the Holy Qur’an had claimed about ish Scriptures, Bible, but more the Bible 14 centuries ago. Some of the consist of evidence has been examined in an ar- thirty-nine specifically there is a 40 ticle, Banned from the Bible before.10 books written The whole of Ehrman’s book is about by dozens of contradictions in the Bible, but more authors over at page chapter titled A specifically there is a 40 page chapter least six hun- titled A world of contradictions. It dred years. world of contradictions. starts as follows: There is a lot of “When students are first introduced room for differ- to the historical, as opposed to a devo- ing perspec- tional, study of the Bible, one of the tives, and if you look for them, you will following morning. In John, Jesus does first things they are forced to grapple find them in droves.” not eat the Passover meal but is cruci- with is that the biblical text, whether Many of the contradictions in the fied on the day before the Passover meal Old Testament or New Testament, is four gospels are not trivial but have was to be eaten. Moreover, in Mark, chock full of discrepancies, many of profound bearing on the Christian doc- Jesus is nailed to the cross at nine in them irreconcilable. Some of these dis- trines. The very first discrepancy or the morning; in John, he is not con- crepancies are simple details where one contradiction that he describes between demned until noon, and then he is taken book contradicts what another says Mark and John is apparently minor per- out and crucified. about a minor point-the number of sol- taining to the day Jesusas was put on “What is one to make of this contra- diers in an army, the year a certain king the cross but it takes a sudden turn like diction? Again, on one level it seems began his reign, the details of an a mystery thriller and suddenly the plot like a rather minor point. I mean, who apostle’s itinerary. In some cases seem- thickens. What is at stake? The whole really cares if it was one day or the next? ingly trivial points of difference can of Christianity is up for grabs in one The point is that Jesus got crucified, actually have an enormous significance little detail! Was it Thursday afternoon right? for the interpretation of a book or the or Friday morning? The book of Mark “Well, that is both right and wrong. reconstruction of the history of ancient is generally considered the most factu- Another question to ask is not ‘Was Israel or the life of the historical Jesus. ally reliable of the four gospels. It was Jesus crucified?’ but also ‘What does And then there are instances that in- written around 70 CE, roughly four de- it mean that Jesus was crucified?’ And volve major issues, where one author cades after the Crucifixion. That’s a for this, little details like the day and has one point of view on an important long lag, but it offers less time for the time actually matter. The way I explain topic (How was the world created? Why accrual of dubious information than the the importance of such minutiae to my do the people of God suffer? What is roughly five decades available for Mat- students is this: When, today, a homicide the significance of Jesus’ death?), and thew and Luke or the six or seven de- is committed, and the police detectives another author has another. Sometimes cades for John. What’s more, during come in to the crime scene, they begin these views are simply different from Mark’s composition there would have searching for little scraps of evidence, one another, but at other times they are been people sixty or seventy years old looking for the trace of a fingerprint or a directly at odds. who as young adults had personally strand of hair on the floor. Someone might

38 MuslimSunrise reasonably look at what they are doing Jesus’ followers after his crucifixion. that historical critics have discovered over and say, ‘What’s wrong with you? Can’t There are very basic contradictions in the years.”17 you see that there’s a dead body on the description of St. Paul by others in the Bart Ehrman is absolutely right when floor? Why are you snooping around for Book of Acts and his autobiographical he claims that all his scholarship, ‘can in a fingerprint?’ Yet sometimes the smallest account in his letters or Epistles. Bart fact lead to a more intelligent and thought- clue can lead to a solution of the case. Ehrman has devoted at least 6 pages to ful faith,’ and that religion, I think, is the Why, and by whom, was this person these set of contradictions.13 religion of Islam. A religion founded in killed? So, too, with the Gospels. Some- There are several interviews of the truth, nature and human conscience! May times the smallest piece of evidence can author describing parts of the book on Allah be our Guide in our search for the give important clues about what the au- Youtube.com.14 15 Truth! thor thought was really going on. “I can’t give a full analysis here, but EPILOGUE Zia H. Shah is a doctor practicing in sleep I will point out a significant feature of and lung disorders in upstate New York. John’s Gospel - the last of our Gospels His last chapter of the book is titled, Is Zia is also the editor of the Alislam eGazette, to be written, probably some twenty-five Faith Possible. After exposing all the fun- an international publication of the years or so after Mark’s. John is the only damental limitations of Christianity and Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Gospel that indicates that Jesus is ‘the the Bible, finally he is trying to extend an lamb of God who takes away the sins of olive branch to the devout Christians. He Endnotes the world.’ This is declared by John the writes: 1 http://browseinside.harpercollins.com/ Baptist at the very beginning of the nar- “But the basic views that I’ve sketched index.aspx?isbn13=9780061173936 rative (John 1:29) and again six verses 2 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bart_Ehrman here are widely known, widely taught, and 3 later (John 1:35). Why, then, did John- Ehrman, Bart D. Misquoting Jesus: The Story widely accepted among New Testament Behind Who Changed the Bible and Why. our latest Gospel - change the day and scholars and their students, including the HarperCollins, 2005. ISBN 978-0-06-073817-4 time when Jesus died? It may be because students who graduate from seminaries 4 http://www.alislam.org/library/books/ in John’s Gospel, Jesus is the Passover and go on to pastor churches. Why do christianity_facts_to_fiction/index.html Lamb, whose sacrifice brings salvation these students so rarely teach their con- 5 http://knol.google.com/k/zia-shah/christianity- from sins. Exactly like the Passover gregations this information, but insist in- a-journey-from-facts-to/1qhnnhcumbuyp/81# Lamb, Jesus has to die on the day (the stead on approach-ing the Bible devotion- 6http://knol.google.com/k/zia-shah/al-islam- Day of Preparation) and the time (some- ally rather than historical-critically, not just egazette-may-2009-preservation/ time after noon), when the Passover 1qhnnhcumbuyp/65# in the pulpit (where a devotional approach 7 lambs were being slaughtered in the http://knol.google.com/k/zia-shah/where-is-the- would be expected) but also in their adult injil-the-q-document-or-q/1qhnnhcumbuyp/145# Temple. education classes? That has been one of 8 http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/ “In other words, John has changed a my leading questions since I started writ- shows/religion/etc/tapes.html historical datum in order to make a theo- ing this book. 9 http://www.alislam.org/egazette/articles/The- logical point: Jesus is the sacrificial “Some pastors, of course, do try to con- Quran-and-the-Bible-200905.pdf lamb. And to convey this theological vey their historical-critical knowledge of 10 http://www.alislam.org/egazette/articles/ point, John has had to create a discrep- the Bible to members of their congrega- Banned-from-Bible-200905.pdf 11 ancy between his account and the oth- tions-often with mixed results. Some pa- Professor Bart Ehram. Jesus, Interrupted: 11 Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the ers.” rishioners are eager to learn all they can Ehram tells us himself that his pur- Bible (And Why We Don’t Know About about what scholars are saying about the Them). Harper One, 2009. Pages 27-28 suit of different contradictions in the Bible, and others simply don’t want to hear 12 Professor Bart Ehram. Jesus, Interrupted: Bible is not petty or frivolous: about it, perhaps because it is too compli- Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the “I further came to see that these dif- cated or, even more likely, too threatening Bible (And Why We Don’t Know About ferences related not just to small details to their faith.”16 Them). Harper One, 2009. Pages 273. here and there. Sometimes different au- He suggests a middle way as he hedges 13 Professor Bart Ehram. Jesus, Interrupted: thors had completely different under- his bets between agnosticism, which he Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the standings of important issues: Was himself practices and reformed Christian- Bible (And Why We Don’t Know About Jesus in doubt and despair on the way Them). Harper One, 2009. Pages 53-58. ity. He writes: 14 to the cross (Mark) or calm and in con- http://www.youtube.com/ “Perhaps pastors are afraid that if the 15 http://www.youtube.com/ trol (Luke)? Did Jesus’ death provide an person in the pew learns what scholars watch?v=Trt1ZWR5PqQ atonement for sin (Mark and Paul) or not have said about the Bible, it will lead to a 16 Professor Bart Ehram. Jesus, Interrupted: (Luke)? Did Jesus perform signs to prove crisis of faith, or even the loss of faith. My Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the who he was (John) or did he refuse to personal view is that a historical- critical Bible (And Why We Don’t Know About do so (Matthew)? Must Jesus’ follow- approach to the Bible does not necessar- Them). Harper One, 2009. Pages 271-272. ers keep the law if they are to enter the ily lead to agnosticism or atheism. It can 17 Professor Bart Ehram. Jesus, Interrupted: Kingdom (Matthew) or absolutely not in fact lead to a more intelligent and Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the 12 Bible (And Why We Don’t Know About (Paul)?” thoughtful faith - certainly more intelligent Them). Harper One, 2009. Page 272. The book of Acts as a whole is a nar- and thoughtful than an approach to the rative of what happened to and among Bible that overlooks all of the problems SUMMER 2010 39 By Arif Humayun uslims who justify acts of terrorism – against non- Muslims or Muslims alike – under the misrepresented Mconcepts of jihad, sharia, apostasy, blasphemy or any other religious guise belie the peaceful credentials of Islam. The recent arrest in Pakistan of five American Muslims for allegedly seeking to join the Taliban or al-Qaida in Afghanistan is particularly disturbing; it confirms that these flawed concepts – the root cause motivating Muslim youngsters towards radicalism – have not been effectively countered. Misrepresented Islamic teachings have been frequently exploited for political purposes and lie at the root of this intellectual confusion amongst Muslims. Practically speaking, Muslims are a diverse group with different sets of beliefs which are strongly influenced by their cultural, tribal and political affiliations. Many of the misrepresented concepts crept into the Muslim faith as a reaction to tectonic changes in the global economic base – transition from agrarian to industrial – that reversed the Muslim governments’ global dominance. Such misrepresented concepts are the proverbial chinks in their ideological armor; rationalization of such distortions will make Islam a truly peaceful religion. Practically speaking, Muslims are a diverse group with different sets of beliefs which are strongly influenced by their cultural, tribal and political affiliations. the MuslimChinks Driven by the West, the transition to In the industrial economy occurred over three to four centuries – a period generally referred to as reformation and renaissance. Ideological In addition to rationalizing myths, this change also reformed the Western educational system with a strong focus on science and technology. This was required to train their workforce to support the ever Armor changing demands of the industrial economy. Sustaining this change required

40 MuslimSunrise The creation of Bangladesh in 1971 shattered the flawed two-nation theory; it established that East and West Pakistani Muslims were two separate nations and that religion alone does not define a nation! continued scientific and technological tween Muslims and non-Muslims claiming still use the same twisted logic to justify development that has become the hallmark that Muslims were a separate nation and killing innocent people. of the West. While this transformation was could not coexist with non-Muslims. Al- The same perverse rationale – that non underway, Muslims were at the zenith of though Jinnah aspired for a secular coun- Muslims automatically are enemies of Mus- their power; they failed to appreciate its try, as confirmed by his landmark speech lims – was used to rally the believers against importance until it was too late. Thus, the after independence declaring equal rights the Russian invasion of Afghanistan. This Muslims’ failure to lead the change to the for all citizens, the seeds of discord con- was accomplished initially through Saudi industrial economy left them behind. This tained in that ideology enabled it to be ex- Arabian funded madrassas (seminaries) in reversal in global dominance created deep ploited by latter-day theorists. This notion Pakistan where these distorted concepts of seated animosity amongst Muslims who regimented the masses to make ‘the Hindu’, the Wahabbi ideology were drilled into rejected everything Western as un-Islamic, a non-Muslim, the object of their hatred. young minds under the guise of Islamic even refusing to learn European languages! Episodes of violence from 1947 cemented education. This was later mandated in col- Colonization of Muslim lands by emerg- their belief of hatred towards the non-Mus- leges – even engineering, medical and den- ing Western powers increased this acri- lims — Hindus and Sikhs. The creation of tal colleges – and also made an integral part mony. The Muslim clergy provided convo- Bangladesh in 1971 shattered the flawed of civil and military recruitment programs. luted justifications urging people to wage two-nation theory; it established that East The dominance by one Muslim ideology in Jihad against the enemy, recalling utopian and West Pakistani Muslims were two sepa- Pakistan prompted others to enter the fray images of past glory of the Muslim rule. rate nations and that religion alone does and resulted in increased polarization and The misrepresented concepts gradually not define a nation! sectarianism whereby each group con- proliferated in the Muslim psyche in the The history of Pakistan thus presents a demned the other’s beliefs and declared their past 100 to 150 years and gained wider ac- realistic case history to study the effect of ‘competition’ non-Muslim or apostates and ceptance with time. Many so-called Islamic ideology on the society. That flawed ideol- justifying violence against them. The Iran- organizations across the Muslim world – ogy has been repeatedly tweaked by inter- Iraq war promoted the Shia-Sunni divide and Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood, Pakistan’s est groups to attain their objectives. When- subsequent Islamization policies in Paki- Jamaat-e-Islami, and a myriad of similar po- ever expedient, the state exploited religion stan and other Muslim countries created the litical organizations – have exploited these for political purposes and politicized the never-ending debate about who was right- misinterpretations for raising funds and re- clergy in this process. Be it Ayub Khan’s fully a Muslim! These debates polarized cruits and resorting to terrorist acts to sub- efforts to win elections against Fatimah society and created hordes of brainwashed due their competition. The exploitation of Jinnah, or Z. A. Bhutto’s land reforms, Zia’s madrassa students each supporting their these distorted concepts for defeating the referendum to continue his authoritarian respective viewpoints and reinforced the Russians in Afghanistan in the 1980s acted rule or Sharif’s nuclear test explosions; at ranks of indoctrinated college and univer- as a catalyst for the rapid spread of this every significant juncture in Pakistan’s po- sity students and civil and military person- flawed ideology. litical history, the national ideology was nel. Political outfits with extremist tenden- Shahzeb Khan (An Ideology with Genes manipulated to win society’s sanction. cies brainwashed marginalized members of of Discord, Dawn, Nov. 23, 2009) argues The seeds of hatred based on the society by exploiting the same binary struc- that every society consciously adopts an Hindu-Muslim divide to justify the creation ture of Muslims/non-Muslims which is be- ideology which is interpreted and reinter- of Pakistan germinated and spread to incite ing used against the US in Iraq, Pakistan preted to seek a specific response from the hatred against progressive Muslims groups and Afghanistan. people. A flawed ideology can become in- as well. Distorted concepts of jihad, sharia, Poor governance and lack of meaning- herently dangerous if it carries genes of apostasy and blasphemy were used to pro- ful economic opportunities, coupled with discord which, unfortunately, were con- voke the emotional but largely uninformed conspiracy theories that outside forces were tained in the ideology adopted to justify masses to kill innocent people. This was out to destroy Islam and Pakistan created the creation of Pakistan. The two-nation clearly documented by the Pakistan fertile ground for demands for the imple- theory highlighted religious identity and did Government’s Inquiry Commission in 1954 mentation of sharia to revive the utopian not promote pluralistic attitudes; it relied (The Munir Commission Report). concept of Muslim community (ummah) solely on the imaginary walls erected be- Radicalized Muslim clergy and terrorists which never existed as a political and geo-

SUMMER 2010 41 graphic entity. Ironically, politicized clergy still aspire for a unified Muslim political entity or country with a large standing army ready to wage jihad to subdue the ‘enemies Muslims of Islam’. In reality, a unified Muslim state existed only during the Prophet’s lifetime; as a group four elected Caliphs succeeded the Prophet as head of the government. Within a few decades of his death, the caliphate became are in a state hereditary and was held by the victor. Sev- eral independent Muslim countries emerged of denial – with the expanding empire and people of diverse backgrounds becoming its citizens. The Caliphate in the 9th and 10th century de- many, cided to develop laws based on the Qur’anic principles of equality, justice and peace that could be uniformly applied to its including the subjects. Sharia’s ethos was to be egalitar- ian with provisions to protect the weak and clergy, either no institution had any power to interfere in the personal decisions and belief of indi- society be without any cul- viduals. Scholars were charged with de- tural activities? That would cast aside as veloping the Sharia Law that was imple- hinksbe absolutely counter to the mented by political rulers. The Muslim Ca- pluralism and diversity in liphate provided only spiritual guidance to the Western world where in- aberrations Muslims who lived in independent political dividual freedoms, social justice and a peaceful and entities. The Caliphate and its spiritual C or deny that bond with Muslim countries ended with the prosperous environment is available to its fall of the Ottoman Empire and the coloni- citizens making the world a better and more zation of the Muslim lands by the emerging livable place. the people industrial powers. Muslims as a group are in a state of denial By separating the development of the – many, including the clergy, either cast aside law from its implementation, early Muslim as aberrations or deny that the people respon- responsible governments had effectively separated re- sible for horrendous terrorist attacks are good ligion from politics. To encourage diver- Muslims. Some cite poverty and lack of edu- for sity and independent analysis, several com- cation for people joining the ranks of terror- peting schools of scholars were allowed to ists while others blame it on conspiracy theo- flourish. Four such schools are still recog- ries. The almost routine suicide attacks on horrendous nized by the Sunni Muslims and one or two security forces and civilians in Pakistan, at- by the Shia Muslims. These important dis- tacks on the headquarters of the Pakistan army tinctions are lost in today’s demands for and its intelligence agencies and the Pakistan terrorist the implementation of sharia which, devel- Army’s fight against the Taliban in Waziristan oped around the agrarian economic base, are blamed on conspiracy theories citing US, attacks are needs to be updated for the industrial Israeli and Indian policies against Pakistan and economy. That will enable Muslim commu- the Muslim World. Al-Qaida and the Taliban nities to develop and climb out of the intel- are similarly dismissed as Western creations good lectual backwaters. Alternately, secular to malign Islam. These theories are easily re- constitutions have evolved that contain the buked by evidence that many of the terrorists Muslims. essential elements of sharia and are equally have college degrees and come from middle effective in providing peace, equality and class and affluent families. Those involved in social justice to people in the industrial the London and Spain train bombings, and distorted concepts are also inconsistent with economy. the recently arrested US citizens of Pakistani Qur’anic teachings. Corrective actions must If the radicals’ demand for their versions and Middle Eastern descent, all educated in include rationalizing the twisted concepts of of sharia is granted – a very scary proposi- the US, aspiring to become jihadis in Afghani- jihad, sharia, apostasy, blasphemy and com- tion – imagine a hypothetical Muslim coun- stan deflate the above assertions. munity (ummat) in the Qur’anic sense with- try of a billion people structured on the The chinks in the Muslims’ ideological ar- out political agendas. That will truly make Saudi Arabian, Taliban or al-Qaida’s ideo- mor are well identified. Muslims must reject Islam a religion of peace and remove the pro- logical model. What would this monolithic the flawed ideologies based on hatred; these verbial chinks in its ideological armor!

42 MuslimSunrise Finding God in Light of the Writings of the Promised Messiahas By Atif Munawar Mir

ost religions describe God Mas an infinite reality, not bounded by time and space, and thus outside the grasp of the human mind. A great chasm separates the human mind and God. Can this gap be bridged and if so, how? Science is taking tiny steps forward but new scientific discoveries only confirm the depth and breadth of human ignorance. Since the development of modern science in the late 1600s, scientists and philosophers have attacked the idea of a god. They hold religion responsible for the oppression of humanity and In such context, Allah sent the Promised edge by way of sight. Knowledge by way of Messiahas, who relied on Surah Al-Takathur inference is the inferior of the three forms of want to replace religion with to identify three tools that grant us certainty knowledge. science as the supreme in the existence of Allah. These three tools are: Knowledge by way authority on human affairs. of inference 1. Knowledge by way of inference, The idea that God does not 2. Knowledge by way of sight and The Promised Messiahas says that knowl- exist became prevalent in the 3. Knowledge by way of experience. edge of God by way of inference is knowl- 1 th edge based on reason and information. When 19 century, which Nietzsche The degree of certainty these three tools we see smoke from a distance, we infer the articulated in his famous provide varies. Knowledge by way of experi- existence of fire. In a similar manner, when we ence provides the highest degree of certainty see creation, we infer that there must be a cre- phrase: “God is dead”. in the existence of Allah followed by knowl- ator. The sight of a sublime glacier melting

SUMMER 2010 43 into rivers, which snake their way into the Messiahas first explains what isn’t revela- Why is steadfastness, in the face of suf- ocean, and then vaporize to form clouds and tion. Any brilliant idea of a scientist or phi- fering, necessary to gain absolute certainty then fall back on earth in the form of rain or losopher cannot be termed as revelation. in the existence of God? Steadfastness in snow, is one of the many marvelous phenom- Otherwise, a thief who comes up with bril- bleak times proves that we love and worship ena in the universe. To a curious mind, a natu- liant ideas of robbery will also be consid- Allah and not our desires. ral question comes to mind. Who created this ered a recipient of revelation. 4 The Promised Messiahas calls steadfast- beautiful machinery of nature in such an artis- The Promised Messiahas describes true ness a moral quality when “one suffers a loss tic manner? Such breathtaking beauty helps revelation as something that is not a prod- one should consider it as rendering back to us to infer that a supreme being exists who uct of our mind but a meaningful back-and- God that which He had bestowed, and created the universe and the life in it. The forth dialogue between Allah and his ser- should utter no complaint about it”.9 In challenge is to find this creator. How do we vant.5 Those who are blessed with revela- other words, steadfastness is “reconcilia- know where He is, and how do we know His tion are few, because most of us choose tion with the divine will”.10 attributes? Holy Scriptures and prophets point material acquisitions over spiritual boun- If we want to be filled with divine light, to the fact that the creator of the universe com- ties. But once we have acquired the taste we must be ready to show steadfastness.11 municates with His creation. Muslims believe of genuine revelation, all worldly things be- that the final scripture revealed to humanity is come meaningless.6 Conclusion the Holy Qur’an. The teachings of this scrip- ture were demonstrated by the Holy It is in our nature to seek. Some try to saw Knowledge by way Prophet in practice. The Holy Qur’an and find happiness in money and possessions. the life of Prophet Muhammadsaw offer indi- of experience Some try to find happiness in knowledge. rect proof that Allah exists. Can we gain an Others seek satisfaction in relationships and even better knowledge of Allah? Yes. To un- According to the Promised Messiahas, friendships. Then there are those who find derstand Allah better, we need to rely on revelation is open to us all. However we can happiness in self-denial and self-mortifica- Allah’s grace. We have to seek His help to only become worthy of it by becoming righ- tion. According to the Holy Qur’an, true hap- develop knowledge about Him without any teous. If revelation inspires righteousness in piness comes when our souls are at peace. intermediary. you then you become worthy of further rev- And our souls are at peace when the reality elations. Revelation and righteous actions re- of Allah has penetrated into our soul, body The Holy Qur’an states: inforce each other and give us the highest and mind. You do not find God in physics level of certainty in the existence of Allah. At laboratories or in mathematical formulae. You “Eyes cannot reach Him but He reaches this stage of certainty, we feel the warmth of will find God in logic, historical knowledge the eyes. And He is the Incomprehensible, the God in our hearts. It is as if we have become and revelation but the absolute certain All-Aware”, (6:104). certain of fire by inserting our hand into the knowledge of God comes when we are righ- fire. teous and hence we show steadfastness in Since righteousness is a prerequisite for the face of suffering. Steadfastness is one of Knowledge by way of sight attaining certainty in the existence of God, the important keys that unlocks the door of we should know the meaning of righteous- our hearts and opens us up into the pres- We can say that we see God with our ness. Righteousness, among other things, ence of Allah. It is interesting that scientists own eyes when God reveals Himself to us. also means showing steadfastness in the face find logic to be the ultimate tool of knowl- No longer do we depend on logic and in- of misfortune. When great calamities enter edge. In Islam, steadfastness is an important formation to infer the existence of Allah. the house of a righteous person, he does not tool that grants us knowledge of the infinite At this stage of knowledge, we do not see “lose heart but says: Surely to Allah we be- reality. Steadfastness and knowledge of only the smoke, but also the fire.2 long and to Him shall we return. It is these on God’s existence are strongly intertwined in However, sometimes revelation is not a whom are blessings from their Lord and Islam. testimony of our righteousness, but is a mercy, and it is these who are rightly and motivation for us to become righteous. It perfectly guided”, (2:156-158). 7 (Footnotes) is like when our parents show us a beauti- Observing steadfastness during extreme 1 Ahmad, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam, “ ful toy and take it back until we finish our hardships allows man to arrive at the abso- Sources of Divine Knowledge homework. In a similar manner, God grants lute certainty of the existence of Allah. “, Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, Islam us revelation and shows Himself to us but The Promised Messiahas explains that International Publications Ltd, 1993, p. 99 he stops His revelations if we do not re- when people show steadfastness and do not 2 Ibid, 103 spond with an improved level of righteous- lose heart in the face of fear, hunger, suffer- 3 Ibid, 105 4 ness. In other words, if someone is blessed ing and loss of wealth, it is they who are Ibid, 104 5 Ibid, 105 with revelation, it does not mean that the blessed from God and are perfectly guided. 6 Ibid, 106 spiritual destination has arrived. It is more Determination in the face of trials imprints 7 Ibid, 109-110 so that God has given us a glimpse of our divine attributes on their soul. At this stage, 8 Ibid, 109-110 destination so that we start traveling faster the knowledge is perfected through experi- 9 Ibid, 40 on the spiritual path.3 ence and moral qualities such as forbearance, 10 Ibid, 41 What is true revelation? The Promised become part of our personality.8 11 Ibid, 111

44 MuslimSunrise Perspective

ComingComingComingComing totototo AMERICA,AMERICA,AMERICA,AMERICA, LessonsLessonsLessonsLessonsLessonsLessons LearnedLearnedLearnedLearnedLearnedLearned

SUMMER 2010 45 It was not only interesting but in a altogether different. I consider it im- way adventurous to adopt the new cul- proved. belong to a ture, language, customs and even dietary Dealing with our society is different differences. It is quite an adventure to for our children. They have been part of unique try to eat a hot dog for the first time, let American society since their birth. We alone trying to struggle with its name. Or like to talk in Urdu, Punjabi or in other generation. even trying to eat cold cuts which some ethnic languages we feel easy with. En- of us former Pakistanis still cannot eat glish is something we deal with because Although I because they look like raw meat. Eating of necessity. It does not matter how well any meat that looks remotely raw in a we have mastered the language or how belong to the third world country is like begging for an comfortable we feel using it. When it emergency room visit. Eating pasta was comes to caroling, counting and cursing, baby- another story because in Pakistan we there is nothing that gives you real sat- were used to eating pasta as a dessert isfaction as your mother tongue. Our chil- boomer generation, being made with sugar and milk. dren don’t have that problem; their I Most of my generation still refers to mother tongue is English, whether or not brought up in Pakistan, it was Pakistan and India as its not a well-known term. I am “home”. They have lived here, in the US, more Dealing with our society is one month older than the years than anywhere else but it is still not home. In different for our children. They country of Pakistan. Being our conversations, we migrants to a new country still hear the words “back have been part of American home” in reference to Pa- and also in a town that was kistan and India. I lived society since their birth. We one month in British In- being established from dia, a little over eighteen like to talk in Urdu, Punjabi or scratch, literally from barren years in Pakistan and 43 years in Chicago. I know in other ethnic languages we land, it was like living in the where my home is. I’ve th already bought the cem- feel easy with. English is 19 century. I can really etery lot for myself here. I relate to a lot of things in a am here to stay. something we deal with Being brought up in cowboy movie: the lanterns an austere, religious town because of necessity. It does not in Pakistan, discussions with kerosene oil, cooking about religion could not matter how well we have over burning wood and be controlled because they were in our blood. mastered the language or how streets without asphalt were This was a great conver- sational ice-breaker since all part of my life in the early most Americans in the six- comfortable we feel using it. years. Then we got electricity ties did not know any- thing about Islam. Moreover, trying to their real mother speaks it. and later on natural gas, but practice Islamic religious obligations My generation supported their par- wasn’t exactly easy in a culture of sex, ents financially, provided education for still no indoor plumbing or drugs and rock ‘n’ roll. The hippie move- their children and made arrangements for television. All of a sudden, I ment was in full swing and there was a their siblings and other relatives to come sexual revolution going on. As a Muslim, to this country so they could avail them- moved to the 20th century in one had to be on guard 24 hours a day. selves of the opportunities here. We were Over a long period of time my knowl- the Social Security system for our fami- the USA. It was like going to edge and thinking about Christians, Jews, lies. sleep in 1866 in a small town Hindus and even Muslims has evolved. The Americans call us the “aliens” or Without compromising with the basic “foreigners” and our children refer to us in Nebraska and waking up in roots of Islamic teachings, the interac- as “diz”. In case you have not heard that tion with others and approach to solving terminology, “diz” is an abbreviation of Chicago in 1966. the common social and political issues is the Urdu word desi (day-see) which

46 MuslimSunrise means domestic or native. In other words, tainment schedules. I know there are kids in Urdu, they answer back in English. we are not westerners. people of my generation who will give a Neither one of us knows for sure if the It’s funny how some of the relatives few examples of how this is not true. other understood what was said. we later brought to this country treated Although I can’t foretell the future, I am I always felt that our sermons and us as if we were backward. They tell us a master of the obvious and I would like speeches in our religious functions are how to do things better as they view to think I am a realist. Social Security really not geared for the next generation. themselves as the “ex- We like to hear quotes in perts” on the finan- Urdu and Arabic and both cial, political, social are Greek to the Americans. and religious aspects I sensed that children come of this country. It’s al- to our functions mostly to most as if they got off please or appease their par- the boat here in the ents. They really do not re- US, only to look back late to the material being at the others on the presented. I think some of ship and yell, “Damn them, if not most of them, Foreigners!” It’s an turn their ears off until it is issue of identity and refreshment time. I know insecurity. The real some would disagree with journey is finding my observation but as I one’s self and being said earlier, I like to think I content with what one am a realist. sees in the mirror. I also think that over the My brother used to last 43 years, my English has say that true content- improved. After reading ment can only be these perspectives, you will achieved by two They tell us how to do things better as they view appreciate how far we have things: 1) Looking at come in expressing our those who have less themselves as the “experts” on the financial, thoughts in the English lan- than you in material guage. I know you will agree things, and 2) Look- political, social and religious aspects of this with me after I narrate the ing at those who have country. It’s almost as if they got off the boat following story of a fellow more than you in spiri- student in my first semester tual goods. here in the US, only to look back at the others on of college. It is actually an It’s not that we old joke. need to point out faults the ship and yell, “Damn Foreigners!” It’s an A foreign student fell in in others, but looking love with the teacher and at others opens our issue of identity and insecurity. The real was trying to find a way to eyes to our own journey is finding one’s self and being content express himself. He brought selves. Everyone’s life a flower and gave it to the is a lesson to be with what one sees in the mirror. teacher. He said, “The smell learned. The lesson of this flower will fade and I’ve learned is that one’s identity is in- system reform is crucial for the baby- die, but Miss. Johnson, you will smell for- timately tied to one’s surroundings, be boomers and it is the product of the ever.” it influenced by nation, time and/or cul- American way of life. My journey from 19th century to the ture. Some try to run away from who I don’t know how the children of our 20th century has been remarkable and re- they are while others cherish their time next generation would be brought up. warding in many ways, thanks to God and tested cultural values. Either way we Would they be brought up by the the Land of Opportunity. need to sift the good from the bad be- babysitters or the tender and loving care It’s now up to the next genera- cause we are truly products of our cir- of their mothers? Everyone in our next tion of Muslims to define who they are, cumstances. generation wants to be a professional their cultural values and how they intend It’s up to every generation to leave a including the females; anything but a to combine the two as they journey on- legacy of values to guide our children. domestic person. I know they will not wards with their lives…Good luck with How our children will treat us when we have a language problem with their chil- your journey into the 21st century! are old is yet to be seen. Some won’t dren since both generations would speak hesitate putting us in a nursing home if English. We, on the other hand, still have Falahud Din Shams we get in the way of their work or enter- that problem. Even when we speak to our

SUMMER 2010 47 Love For All. Hatred For None. Four quarterly issues of the Muslim Sunrise for just $15 subscribe now muslimsunrise.com For information on Islam: www.alislam.org

The Muslim Sunrise is published by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, USA 2S 510 Rte. 53 Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

48 MuslimSunrise This magazine is not to be reproduced without permission from the Muslim Sunrise Editorial Board