CONDITIONS OF INITIATION (BAI'AT)

The initiate shall solemnly promise:

I That he/she shall abstain from Shirk (association of any partner with God) right up to the day of his/her death.

II That he/she shall keep away from falsehood, fornication, adultery, trespasses of the eye, debauchery, dissipation, cruelty, dishonesty, mischief and rebellion; and will not permit himself/herself to be carried away by passions, however strong they might be.

III That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); and shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the Tahajud (pre-dawn supererogatory prayers) and invoking Darood (blessings) on the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him); that he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him.

IV That under the impulse of any passions, he/she shall cause no harm whatsoever to the creatures of Allah in general, and Muslims in particular, neither by his/her tongue nor by his/her hands nor by any other means.

V That he/she shall remain faithful to God in all circumstances of life, in sorrow and happiness, adversity and prosperity, in felicity and trial; and shall in all conditions remain resigned to the decree of Allah and keep himself/herself ready to face all kinds of indignities and sufferings in His way and shall never turn away from it at the onslaught of any misfortune; on the contrary, he/she shall march forward.

VI That he/she shall refrain from following un-Islamic customs and lustful inclinations, and shall completely submit himself/herself to the authority of the Holy Quran; and shall make the Word of God and the Sayings of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) the guiding principle in every walk of his/her life.

VII That he/she shall entirely give up pride and vanity and shall pass all his/her life in humbleness, cheerfulness, forbearance and meekness.

VIII That he/she shall hold faith, the honor of faith, and the cause of Islam dearer to him/her than his/her life, wealth, honor, children and all other dear ones.

IX That he/she shall keep himself/herself occupied in the service of God's creatures for His sake only; and shall endeavor to benefit mankind to the best of his/her God-given abilities and powers.

X That he/she shall enter into a bond of brotherhood with this humble servant of God, pledging obedience to me in everything good, for the sake of Allah, and remain faithful to it till the day of his/her death; that he/she shall exert such a high devotion in the observance of this bond as is not to be found in any other worldly relationship and connections demanding devoted dutifulness.

(Taken from www.alislam.org)

Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Prepared by the Taleem & Tarbiyat Departments Lajna Ima’illah - USA

Sadr Lajna Ima’illah – USA Saliha Malik

National Secretary Taleem Mubarika Shah

Taleem Committee

Akavish Khan Salima Ahmed Amtul Mujeeb Chaudry Fareeha Haroon Attiya Salik Sahar Choudhary Nudrat Salik Mabroor Jattala

National Secretary Tarbiyat Aziza Rahman

Tarbiyat Committee

Bushra Salam Bajwa Mabroor Jattala Fauzia Qureshi Mubarka Sadiq

Lajna Ima’illah-USA Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Table of Contents

Page TALEEM WORKBOOK Taleem Program Summary 3 Etiquettes for Reading the Holy Qur’an 7 Taleem Program Quarter 1 April/May/June 2015 9 Quarter 2 July/August/September 2015 20 Quarter 3 October/November/December 2015 27 Quarter 4 January/February/March 2016 36 Quarter 5 April/May/June 2016 46 Quarter 6 July/August/September 2016 53 Quarter 7 October/November/December 2016 64 Quarter 8 January/February/March 2017 74 Taleem Appendices Appendix A - Prayers for Memorization 85 Appendix B - Divine Establishment of Jama’at Ahmadiyya 87 Appendix C - Organization of Jama’at Ahmadiyya 89 Appendix D - Promised Messiahas References about the Death of Jesusas 90 Appendix E - Salat with Split Word Meanings/Translation 92 References & Sources to Complete Workbook 100

TARBIYAT WORKBOOK 2 Introduction to the Tarbiyat Program 4 Instructions for using Tarbiyat Workbook 5 References and Reading Material 6 Tarbiyat Program Quarter 1 April/May/June 2015 7 Quarter 2 July/August/September 2015 17 Quarter 3 October/November/December 2015 27 Quarter 4 January/February/March 2016 37 Quarter 5 April/May/June 2016 47 Quarter 6 July/August/September 2016 56 Quarter 7 October/November/December 2016 65 Quarter 8 January/February/March 2017 75 Etiquettes and Guidelines 84

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 2 Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Taleem (Education) Program Summary 2015 - 2017

“Rabbe Zidni Ilma” O my Lord! Increase me in my knowledge. (20:115) The goal of the Taleem program is to enhance and improve the religious knowledge of Lajna USA through mutual collaboration and religious education programs at local and national levels. This is a program that meets the learning needs of Lajna of all age groups.

AREAS OF FOCUS HOLY QUR’AN Nazirah: Learn correct reading and pronunciation of the Holy Qur’an with translation by implementing the following:  In general meetings, review Tilawat with translation and revision of Holy Qur’an recitation & rules.  Encourage one-to-one teaching at local levels.  Encourage Lajna members to participate in online Nazira classes.

The Holy Qur’an Study: The workbook provides focused study, for small groups, Halqa meetings and at home, with questions on Surah Al-Imran with commentary as well as identifying Qur’anic vocabulary and split-word translation.

Memorization of Holy Qur’an and Prayers: Memorize the Holy Quran prayers from:  Selected verses of Sura Al-Imran identified in the Workbook.  Selected prayers listed in Taleem Appendix A of the Workbook.

SALAT  Learn split-word translation of Salat and understand the deeper meaning of each part of the Salat wording and position.  Increase knowledge of Salat and Ibadat (prayers) using various resources including Friday sermons. Use Q&A provided in the Taleem Department of the Lajna website.

AHADITH Read Ahadith in the meeting related to the subject of the condition of the Bai’at selected for the month and the quarter.

BOOKS OF THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS  Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to the Hadith topic should be read in the meetings.  Books of the Promised Messiahas should be read in Book Clubs, individually or by other methods of choice.

GENERAL ISLAMIC KNOWLEDGE  Assigned Books: The assigned books for this program are: 1. Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi (by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba) 2. Our Teaching (Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiahas) 3. Lajna Constitution

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 3 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

 Modules: Special selected topic for the module is provided for each quarter. These topics are based on Shura proposals and subjects that are identified based on Majalis needs.  SPECIAL ACTIVITY Seeratun-Nabisaw Jalsa: The month of October will be designated as Seeratun-Nabisaw month for Lajna. All Lajna Majaalis are requested to plan and hold Jalsa Seeratun- Nabisaw during this month. Special meetings and activities should be held to learn and celebrate our beloved Prophetsaw. Invite non-Ahmadi and non-Muslim guests to this special meeting/Jalsa. Majalis may hold these activities in any month of this quarter.

ANNUAL TALEEM TEST Annual Taleem test is a requirement according to the Lajna constitution. All members must participate in the test, which is designed to reinforce the learning achieved during the year.  50% questions on the Holy Qur’an from the Workbook  25% questions on the Ahadith  25% questions on the assigned books

ACHIEVEMENTS IN SECULAR EDUCATION The Taleem department encourages members to accomplish outstanding achievements in secular education. Members are also encouraged to apply for Ahmadiyya Talent Awards that are organized by Jama’at for students or professionals who have excelled in their studies and/or have achieved outstanding success in their professional fields.

OVERVIEW OF QUARTERLY TALEEM PROGRAM

Quarter #1 April – June, 2015 Quarter #2 July – September, 2015 Conditions of Bai’at 1 & 3: Condition of Bai’at 4: Holy Qur’an: Summary of Surah Al-Imran, Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short Nazirah, translation & short commentary of commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 114-121, Surah Al-Imran Verses 107- 113. (note: One month of the Taleem program is Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Conditions reduced due to Ramadhan) 1&3 Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Condition 4 Salat: Continue learning split word translation Salat: Continue learning split word translation at home. at home. General Knowledge: Read at home General Knowledge: Read at home Introduction and Conditions 1 & 3 from Condition 4 from Conditions of Bai’at & Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Our Ahmadi. Read Our Teaching as planned by Teaching as planned by local Sadr. local Sadr. Memorization: Prayer from Workbook Memorization: Prayer from the Workbook Special Activity/Module: Why did Promised Special Activity/Module: Special program Messiah establish this Jama’at? Conduct a on Importance of Ramadhan in May or June workshop on Nizam-e-Jamaat & its purpose, and revision of Ramadhan related prayers. rules, protocols.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 4 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Quarter #3 October – December, 2015 Quarter #4 January – March, 2016 Condition of Bai’at 2: Condition of Bai’at 5: Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 122-137. commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 138-149. Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Condition 2 Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Condition 5 Salat: Continue learning split word translation Salat: Continue learning split word translation at home. at home. General Knowledge: Read at home General Knowledge: Read at home Condition 2 from Conditions of Bai’at & Condition 5 from Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Our Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Our Teaching as planned by local Sadr. Teaching as planned by local Sadr. Memorization: Prayer from Workbook Memorization: Prayer from Workbook Special Activities/Module: 1) Hold Jalsa Special Activities/Module: Holy Qur’an Seeratun-Nabisaw with invited guests. Address proves Jesusas was a human being and the topics of Peace and Liberation of Women. prophet of God. Proof of his death is the rejuvenation of Islam.

Annual Taleem Test

Quarter #5 April – June, 2016 Quarter #6 July – September, 2016 Condition of Bai’at 6: Conditions of Bai’at 7 & 8: Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 150-156. commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 157-172. (note: One month Taleem program is reduced Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Conditions due to month of Ramadhan) 7&8 Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Conditions 6 Salat: Continue learning split word translation Salat: Continue learning split word translation at home. at home. General Knowledge: Read at home General Knowledge: Read at home Condition 8 from Conditions of Bai’at & Condition 6&7 from Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Lajna Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Lajna Constitution as planned by local Sadr. Constitution as planned by local Sadr. Memorization: Prayer from the Workbook Memorization: Prayer from the Workbook Special Activity/Module: Why was Lajna Special Activity/Module: Obedience to Ima’illah established and what are the goals Nizam-e-Jama’t, respect for office and and objectives of this auxiliary? humility and loving conduct in office holders. Conduct Quiz on Ramadhan

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 5 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Quarter #7 October – December, 2016 Quarter #8 January – March, 2017 Condition of Bai’at 9: Condition of Bai’at 10: Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short Holy Qur’an: Nazira, translation & short commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 173-185. commentary Surah Al-Imran Verses 186-201. Hadith & Malfoozat: Related to Condition 9 Hadith& Malfoozat: Related to Condition 10 Salat: Continue learning split word translation Salat: Continue learning split word translation at home. at home. General Knowledge: Read at home General Knowledge: Read at home Condition 9 from Conditions of Bai’at & Condition 10 from Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Lajna Responsibilities of an Ahmadi. Read Lajna Constitution as planned by local Sadr. Constitution as planned by local Sadr. Memorization: Prayer listed in the Workbook Memorization: Prayer listed in Workbook Special Activities/Module: Hold Jalsa Special Activities/Module: Review Lajna Seeratun-Nabisaw. Arrange special activities Constitution rules in a workshop or other during the month of October, to learn and creative form with focus on rules that pertain understand the life and character of the Holy to you as a general member and Amila Prophetsaw. member, if applicable.

Annual Taleem Test

LEARNING THE HOLY QUR’AN

"The best among you is the one who learns and teaches the Holy Qur'an" (Bukhari) Lajna is offering classes for learning to read the correct pronunciation of the Holy Qur'an on a website that has been setup by the Jama’at with trained Lajna teachers. You can register for these classes through the Lajna website at: http://www.lajnausa.net/web/learn-correct- pronunciation You can get information about online Holy Qur'an classes for learning translation, which are organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Department of Taleem-ul-Qur'an. These classes are helpful for reading the Holy Qur'an (in Arabic) with correct pronunciation and understanding the meaning. Please visit www.alfurqan.us to get more information and/or register yourself. 703-968-9109

IMPORTANT NOTES: 1. The Arabic text in this workbook has been copied from alislam.org. We apologize and seek forgiveness of Allah for any unintentional human errors.

2. For selected words of the Holy Qur’an, we copied the words as they were in the Holy Qur’an text. The A’raabs of each stand-alone word may not follow Arabic grammar rules. Our intention is to learn the meaning of the word as it appears in the Holy Qur’an.

3. All Holy Qur’an questions and summary points were derived from THE HOLY QUR’AN (English Translation & Short Commentary) edited by Malik Ghulam Farid, which is also available at www.alislam.org. Some answers may be found in the English Five-Volume Commentary available at: http://www.alislam.org/quran/tafseer/guide.htm?region=E1 Lajna Ima’illah-USA 6 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

ETIQUETTES FOR READING THE HOLY QUR’AN

 Be physically and spiritually clean.

“That this is indeed a noble Qur’an; In a well preserved book; Which none shall touch except those who are purified” (56:78-80)

We should be physically clean and, preferably, perform wudū before its recitation. Also to fully absorb the blessings of the Qur’an and to understand its real meanings, one should be spiritually pure, clean and sincere in one’s beliefs.

 Recite the following prayer before reciting the Holy Qur’an.

The Holy Qur’an directs us to say Ta’awwudh before reciting the Holy Qur’an:

a‘üdhu billähi minash-shaitänir-rajïm

“Seek refuge with Allah from Satan the rejected.” (16:99)

 Remain silent and listen when the Holy Qur’an is recited.

"And when the Qur'an is recited, give ear to it and keep silence, that you may be shown mercy." (7:205)

 Handle the Holy Qu’ran respectfully.

We should not place workbooks or any written pages of the Holy Qur’an on the floor or in a dirty place. We should always have the utmost outward respect for the words of Allah.

 Recite the Holy Qur’an at dawn.

Daily recitation is preferred at dawn. The Holy Qur’an states:

“And the recitation of the Qur’an in Prayer at dawn. Verily, the recitation of the Qur’an at dawn is specially acceptable to God.” (17:79)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 7 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

TALEEM PROGRAM 2015 - 2017

“Rabbe Zidni Ilma” O my Lord! Increase me in my knowledge. (20:115)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 8 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

TALEEM PROGRAM

Quarter 1

(April, May, & June 2015)

“The best among you is the one who learns the Holy Qur’an and teaches it to others” (Holy Prophetsaw)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayers 1 & 2 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Special program on the Importance of Ramadhan in May or June and revision of Ramadhan related prayers.

Book Reading: At home, read conditions 1 and 3 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the book Our Teaching by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiahas.

April 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read Surah Al-Fatihah and the review of the first half of Surah Al-Imran below.

[1:1] In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

[1:2] All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds,

[1:3] The Gracious, the Merciful,

[1:4] Master of the Day of Judgment.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 9 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

[1:5] Thee alone do we worship and Thee alone do we implore for help.

[1:6] Guide us in the right path —

[1:7] The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings, those who have not incurred Thy displeasure, and those who have not gone astray.

Review of the first half of Surah Al-Imran

Introduction to Surah Al-Imran

Surah Al-Imran was revealed in the third year after Hijrah (migration to Medina). It especially discusses the group of “Za’aleen” (those who have strayed from the right path).

The main subject of the Surah is Christianity. The death of Jesusas, refuting the main theme of the Divinity of Jesusas, is clearly explained.

The Surah emphasizes the Unity of God. The attention of the People of the Book is drawn to the fact that Muslims also believe in the truth of Divine origin and it is the source of their faith. They are further reminded that Muslims and Jews have a meeting point in Abrahamas.

There is a brief reference made to the Battle of Badr in this Surah.

Summary Points of Surah Al-Imran, Verses 1 – 106

1. Surah Al-Imran opens with the abbreviated letters, Alif Lam Mim (I am Allah, the All- Knowing). It draws the attention to the Divine attribute of knowledge.

2. Allah has sent down the Holy Qur’an with true teachings as a source of guidance that has been predicted in previous scriptures including the Torah and the Gospel.

3. A very important prayer herein urges us to pray that our hearts not become perverse after He has guided us and that may He bestows mercy on us. Thus we do not go astray and are not punished on the Day of Judgment.

4. There are prophecies for Muslims and warnings for the non-believers. The example of previous historical incidents such as the efforts of Pharaoh and his people against Moses is mentioned.

5. Islam does not object to the acquisition of good things in life, but the Holy Qur’an states that the greatest of all these things in life is the pleasure of Allah.

6. Disbelievers are warned of the divine punishment for not accepting the Signs of God. They are told that their efforts in the present life to destroy Islam will be unsuccessful, and their work will be of no use to them in the life hereafter.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 10 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

7. This Surah has verses, which point to the absolute Divine Law. It states that nations rise and fall as they conform to, or defy, the will of God, Who is the source of all power and glory.

8. It also refers to the fulfillment of the prophecy that the spiritual and worldy powers, previously granted to the Israelites, will transfer to the Ishmaelites (the other progeny of Abrahamas) and Islam will ultimately succeed.

9. It describes how to achieve the love of Allah, which is the most important purpose of human life. The path to progress for Muslims does not lie in imitating other peoples’ ways but in strictly following Islam and the Holy Prophetsaw.

10. The subject of Christianity is introduced. It talks about the mother of Mary (Hazrat Maryam), a pious lady from Al-Imran named Hanaa, who dedicated her child to the service of God before the birth of that child.

11. When Hazrat Maryam (Mary) was born, she was given to a temple, where Zachariahas was appointed as her guardian. Zachariahas was so impressed by Mary’s piety that he prayed to God for a child like her and was granted Yahyaas.

12. The description of the exceptional birth of Yahyaas before the birth of Jesusas is in support of the exceptional birth of Jesusas. The birth of Yahyaas was a miracle that occurred before the much greater miraculous birth of Jesusas.

13. The Holy Qur’an describes several facts about Mary that are not found in earlier scriptures. They describe Allah’s favors upon her, by giving her an exalted status and choosing her above all women of that time.

14. Surah Al-Imran clearly describes the mission of Jesusas as a prophet of God and states that the mission was confined to the Jewish people only.

15. The Jewish rulers opposing Jesusas planned an accursed death on the cross for him to prove he was not a true prophet. Allah caused their plans to fail and Jesusas did not die on the cross, instead he died a natural death later in Kashmir, India.

16. The Holy Qur’an strongly establishes the truth about Jesusas as being a normal human being and a prophet of God.

17. After proving that Jesusas was a human being, the Holy Qur’an encourages both communities, Jewish and Christians, to come back to their original belief of the Oneness of God.

18. It also suggests that believers, from all faiths, should agree on the religion of Abrahamas. He was not Jewish, Christian or Muslim, as all these religions came into existence after his time; His faith was complete submission and obedience to the will of One God. This is in accordance with the teachings of Islam and its Holy Founder.

19. Enemies of Islam tried different tactics to dishearten Muslims and to stop the spread of Islam. It was difficult for the People of the Book to accept that the knowledge that had Lajna Ima’illah-USA 11 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

been bestowed upon them is now with someone else, whom they considered inferior. They believed that God provides guidance exclusively to the nation of Israel. Islam emphasizes that Allah’s universal guidance is open to all people.

20. A trust was given to the People of the Book but they (who did not accept Islam) became dishonest regarding the trust, and did not share the knowledge (prophecies in the Bible regarding the Prophet of Arabia) with others.

21. People who break their oaths/promises with Allah for worldly gains are actually losers, since they lose Allah’s grace and favors. They lie about Allah by associating and saying things that are not from Allah. It is unthinkable for a prophet of God to teach people to take him as God and worship him instead of the real God.

22. The Holy Qur’an highlights a general rule that the advent of every prophet is in “fulfillment” of certain prophecies that are foretold. God took a covenant from the people through their Prophets to accept the next prophet of God when he makes his appearance.

23. In the case of the Holy Prophetsaw, it was fundamental for all nations to accept him as a Prophet of God since his advent was foretold by all faiths.

24. Islam’s universal teaching is not only to accept the prophets from the Israelites but to accept all prophets from all parts and nations of the world.

25. This Surah explains the rewards for human actions, good or bad, and repentance and its true significance. Repentance is not accepted if it is not genuine, or if it becomes a habit of saying “I repent” without a real and practical change.

26. After discussing the subject of repentance, the Holy Qur’an emphasizes the importance of complete submission to the will of God, and how to attain true faith and the highest form of good.

27. Attention is drawn of the People of the Book to the Ka’bah, that the real and original center of God’s religion is the Ka’bah. The person who laid the foundation of the Ka’bah and prayed there was Abrahamas. This entitles the Ka’bah to be recognized as the Qiblah (the center of religion for all times).

28. Muslims may be protected from going astray because they are the recipients of God’s new revelation, but one has to protect him or herself from sin by acting on the commandments of Allah.

29. Muslims are warned how to protect themselves from spiritual degradation. They must remain obedient to God. They must remain strong in their faith and keep their hearts pure from malice and hatred.

30. Muslims are admonished to patiently endure all opposition and oppression, strengthen their connections with God and establish their mutual relations on a firmer basis because they will stand in sore need of a united front when confronted with a severe attack from Christians.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 12 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

Hadith a)

Narrated by Ḥaḍrat Abū Bakr Siddīq, Allāh be pleased with him: Said the Prophet of Allāh (peace of Allāh and His blessings be on him): “Shall I apprise you of the three great sins?” We said, “Aye, O Prophet of Allāh.” He said: “Hearken! The biggest sin is setting up equals to Allāh and then disobedience of parents and neglect of duty to them,” and, leaving the cushion he was leaning against, and sitting up in a roused manner, he said with great force, “Hearken! And lying,” and he repeated it so many times that we wished he had left it off at that and not strained himself so much. (Bukhārī; Forty Gems of Beauty, p.73) b) Ubadah Bin Nasi told us about Shaddad Bin “Aus that he was crying. He was asked, “Why do you cry?” He replied, “I have remembered something that I heard from the Holy Prophetsaw and it has made me cry. I heard the Holy Prophetsaw say that, “I fear about shirk and their secret desires in my ummah.” I asked, “O Prophet of Allah, will your people be involved in shirk after you?” The Holy Prophetsaw responded, “Yes, even though my people will not worship the sun and the moon, the idol and the stone, they will suffer from ostentations in their actions and they will be prey to their hidden desires. One of them will start the day fasting but then he will come across a desire and he will break the fast and indulge in his desire.”” (Ahmadabni Hanbal; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 17)

The above Ahadith relate to the 1st Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 1st Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

The initiate shall solemnly promise that he/she shall abstain from shirk [associating any partner with God] right up to the day of his/her death.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 13 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

May 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 107 to 110 of the 11th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:107] On the day when some faces shall be white, and some faces shall be black. As for those whose faces will be black, it will be said to them: ‘Did you disbelieve after believing? Taste, then, the punishment because you disbelieved.’

[3:108] And as for those whose faces will be white, they will be in the mercy of Allah; therein will they abide.

[3:109] These are the Signs of Allah, We rehearse them to thee while they comprise the truth; and Allah wills not any wrong to His creatures.

[3:110] And to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, and to Allah shall all affairs be returned for decision.

Learn these words with translation:

Natloohaa Fadhooqoo Wujoohun Taswaddu Tabyaddzu

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 14 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “The first thing for which a person would be called to account is the Prayer. If he succeeds in this account, he would be successful and will attain salvation. If that account is deficient, he will be ruined and will be a loser. If there is a shortfall in the obligatory Prayers, Allah will make it up from his nawafil. Similarly, all his other deeds will be accounted for.” (Tirmadhi; Hadeeqatus Salahin p. 252; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 53) b) Hazrat Bilalra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “You should be very regular in tahajjud. That has been the practice of the righteous ones in the past and is a means of attaining nearness to God. This is a habit that safeguards against sin, removes blemishes and safeguards from physical illness.” (Tirmadhi; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 58)

The above Ahadith relate to the 3rd Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 3rd Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily Prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Muhammadsaw and shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the tahajjud and invoking durud on the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw. That he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 107 – 110

A note of warning is sounded to the Muslims that the People of the Book have gone so far in opposition to them that, if they had their way, they would certainly lead them astray. But as Muslims are the recipients of God’s new revelation, they have been greatly strengthened by that to protect them from going astray. They are, therefore, admonished to patiently endure all opposition and oppression, strengthen their connection with God and establish their mutual relations on a firmer basis because they will stand in sore need of a united front when confronted with a severe attack from the Christians.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 15 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

May 2015 Questions

1. What day is referred to in verse 107 and what will be presented to the people that day? ______

2. How does the word Bi’l-Haqq describe the status of the Holy Qur’an (use reference from 3:4 for a complete description)? ______

For him who follows a path for seeking knowledge, Allah will ease the way to Paradise (Muslim).

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 16 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

June 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 111 to 113 of the 12th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:111] You are the best people raised for the good of mankind; you enjoin what is good and forbid evil and believe in Allah. And if the People of the Book had believed, it would have surely been better for them. Some of them are believers, but most of them are disobedient.

[3:112] They cannot harm you save a slight hurt; and if they fight you, they shall show you their backs. Then they shall not be helped.

[3:113] Smitten shall they be with abasement wherever they are found, unless they have protection from Allah, or protection from men. They have incurred the wrath of Allah, and smitten are they with wretchedness. That is because they would reject the Signs of Allah and kill the Prophets unjustly. That is because they rebelled and used to transgress.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 17 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

Learn these words with translation:

Ya’tadoona A‘sau Thuqifoo Adhan Yuwallookumul adbaara

Hadith a)

Abu Hurairahra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “Whenever anyone invokes blessings upon me Allah will restore my soul to me so that I will respond to his invocation.” (Abu Dawud; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.142; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p.84) b) Hazrat ‘Abdullah Bin ‘Amr Bin al-‘Asra narrates that he heard the Holy Prophetsaw saying: “When you hear the caller of adhan, repeat the words that he is saying. Then invoke Allah’s blessings upon me. He who invokes Allah’s blessing upon me, Allah will grant him His mercy ten-fold.” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 61)

The above Ahadith relate to the 3rd Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 3rd Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 111 – 113

Muslims are further told that before that time comes, they should strengthen their ranks by conveying the message of Islam to as many people as possible and this should be done in two ways: a) there should be a special party of preachers among Muslims who should dedicate their lives to the propagation of Islam; b) Muslims should preach as best as they can. This is the key for the success of Islam. Muslims are further warned against believing the falacy that the Jews will help them. On the contrary, they would spare no pains to harass and oppress them. They would, however, fail to do Muslims any real harm and would themselves meet with disgrace and humiliation.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 18 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

June 2015 Questions

3. What qualities are described in verse 111 that make Muslims best among people? ______

4. What is the prophecy, given in verse 113, regarding the Jews? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 19 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

Quarter 2

(July, August, & September 2015)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Special Note: Due to Ramadhan activities, the Taleem program has been reduced for this quarter. During this special month effort should be made to increase our personal Ibadaat through fasting, extra Nawafal and reading of the Holy Qur’an. The program for two months has been provided. It will be the choice of the local Majlis to select which 2 of the 3 months to cover this program.

Memorization: Prayers 3 & 4 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Why did the Promised Messiahas Establish this Jama’at? Workshop on Nizam-e-Jama’t, its purpose, rules and protocols. (See Appendices B and C)

Book Reading: At home, read condition 4 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the book Our Teaching by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiahas.

July/August 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 114 to 118 of the 12th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:114] They are not all alike. Among the People of the Book there is a party who stand by their covenant; they recite the word of Allah in the hours of night and prostrate themselves before Him.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 20 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

[3:115] They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and enjoin what is good and forbid evil, and hasten, vying with one another, in good works. And these are among the righteous.

[3:116] And whatever good they do, they shall not be denied its due reward; and Allah well knows the God-fearing.

[3:117] As for those who disbelieve, their possessions and their children shall not avail them aught against Allah; and these are the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide.

[3:118] The likeness of what they spend for the present life is as the likeness of a wind wherein there is intense cold which smites the harvest of a people who have wronged themselves, and destroys it. And Allah has not wronged them, but they wrong themselves.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 21 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

Learn these words with translation:

Sirrun Lan Yusaari’oona Aana’a Laisoo Tughniya

Hadith a)

Narrated by Hazrat Anas bin Malikrz that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “Do not be jealous of one another. Do not hold grudges against each other. Do not turn your backs on each other, and do not be indifferent to each other. O worshippers of Allah! Be like brothers. It is not permissible for a Muslim to be angry with his brother and break ties for more than three days." (Bukhari; “Hadeeqatus Salahin” p. 815) b) In another hadith the narrator states that: We were sitting in the company of ‘Urwah Bin Muhammad when a man came by. He started talking in a manner that angered ‘Urwah Bin Muhammad. The narrator states that when his anger boiled he got up. After performing ablution, he came back to them. He told us that he had heard of a narration passed down by his father through his grandfather, Atiyyah, who was a Companion of the Holy Prophetsaw that the Holy Prophetsaw had said: “Anger comes from Satan. Satan was made from the fire, and fire is put out by water; so when one of you gets angry, he should perform the ablution.” (Ahmadabni Hanbal; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 84)

The above Ahadith relate to the 4th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 4th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That under the impulse of any passions, he/she shall cause no harm whatsoever to the creatures of God in general and Muslims in particular, neither by his/her tongue, hands, nor any other means.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 22 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 114 – 118

The Holy Qur’an does not fail to recognize good, wherever it is found, and says that not all People of the Book are bad. Some among them are good and those people will get their reward from God. Those who try to destroy Islam with their worldly resources will only injure and harm themselves. God sent Islam for the good of the people; however, by rejecting Islam they are bringing about their own ruin.

July/August 2015 Questions

5. Describe the distinct quality of Islam, as a global religion, mentioned in verse 116. ______

6. What is meant by “Allah wronged them not but they wronged themselves” in verse 118? ______

May Allah prosper the affair of a person who hears something from me and conveys it to others as he heard it, for sometimes one who hears from another remembers it better than the original hearer himself (Tirmidhi).

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 23 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

September 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 119 to 121 of the 12th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:119] O ye who believe! take not others than your own people as intimate friends; they will not fail to corrupt you. They love to see you in trouble. Hatred has already shown itself through the utterances of their mouths, and what their breasts conceal is greater still. We have made clear to you Our commandments, if you will understand.

[3:120] Behold, you are those who love them, but they love you not. And you believe in all the Book. When they meet you, they say, ‘We believe;’ but when they are alone, they bite their finger-tips at you for rage. Say, ‘Perish in your rage. Surely, Allah knows well what is hidden in your breasts.’

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 24 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

[3:121] If anything good befall you, it grieves them; and if an evil befall you, they rejoice thereat. But if you be steadfast and righteous, their designs will not harm you at all; surely, Allah encompasses all that they do.

Learn these words with translation:

Muheetun Addzoo Waddoo Khabaalan Bitaanatan

Hadith a)

Narrated Abu Muisa Al Asharira that the Prophetsaw said: “Feed the hungry, visit the sick, and set free the captives.” (Bukhari; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p.91) b) Hazrat Abu Dhar al-Ghaffarira used to provide drinking water from his tank. Some members of a family came by. One of them asked the others as to which of them would go to Abu Dharra to hold him by his hair and ask him to render an account of himself. One of them said that he would do it. He went over to Abu Dharra when he was standing near the tank. He started questioning him. Abu Dharra, who was standing at this time, sat down and then he lay down. One of them asked him, “Abu Dharra, why did you sit down and then why did you lie down?” He replied that, “the Holy Prophetsaw told us, ‘When anger overcomes one of you while he is standing he should sit down so that this anger would subside; failing that, he should lie down.’” (Ahmadabni Hanbal; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 84)

The above Ahadith relate to the 4th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 4th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 25 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 119 – 121

Those who are morally bad and malicious will come to grief and will be disgraced. Muslims are warned to avoid relationships with those who are enemies of Islam as they will make every effort to corrupt their religion. Muslims should, however, have no fear of them, because they are not able to do any substantial harm to Muslims. They are further reminded that they should not have any doubt that Muslims would not prevail against the enemies because they are more in number and have enormous means at their disposal. Muslims are retold that national victories do not result from material means but from the superiority of national morals.

September 2015 Questions

7. What guidance is given to Muslims regarding taking non-believers as intimate friends and why? ______

8. What has Allah promised Muslims with regards to the plotting and scheming of the enemies of Islam? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 26 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

Quarter 3

(October, November, & December 2015)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayer 5 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabisaw with invited guests. Address the topics of Peace and Liberation of Women.

Book Reading: At home, read condition 2 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the book Our Teaching by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiahas.

October 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 122 to 126 of the 13th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:122] And remember the time when thou didst go forth early in the morning from thy household, assigning to the believers their positions for battle. And Allah is All- Hearing, All-Knowing;

[3:123] When two of your groups meditated cowardice, although Allah was their friend. And upon Allah should the believers rely.

[3:124] And Allah had already helped you at Badr when you were weak. So take Allah for your Protector that you may be grateful.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 27 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

[3:125] When thou didst say to the believers, ‘Will it not suffice you that your Lord should help you with three thousand angels sent down from on high?’

[3:126] Yea, if you be steadfast and righteous and they come upon you immediately in hot haste, your Lord will help you with five thousand angels, attacking vehemently.

Learn these words with translation:

Musawwimeena Adhillatun Tafshalaa Tubawwiu Ghadauta

Hadith a)

Hazrat Ibn-e-Mas‘udra has related that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Truth guides to virtue, and virtue guides to Paradise. A person keeps telling the truth till in the sight of Allah he is named truthful. Lying leads to vice, and vice leads to the Fire; and a person keeps lying till in the sight of Allah he is named a liar.” (Bukhari; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.816; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 24) Lajna Ima’illah-USA 28 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

b) Hazrat Abu Hurairahra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Whoever invited a young child to give him something and did not do so, it would be counted as a lie.” (Ahmadabni Hanbal; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 23)

The above Ahadith relate to the 2nd Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 2nd Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall keep away from falsehood, fornication/adultery, trespasses of the eye, debauchery, dissipation, cruelty, dishonesty, mischief and rebellion; and that he/she will not permit himself/ herself to be carried away by passions, however strong they might be.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 122 – 126 These verses describe the time of the battle of Uhud. A brief reference is made also to the battle of Badr. Muslims are told that, just as in the face of extreme adverse circumstances God protected and helped them against the idolaters of Mecca at Badr and granted them a clear victory over them, the same will happen with regard to the People of the Book. There is a prophecy in these verses that in the fourteenth century when Islam will be in a weak state, Allah will protect and help those Muslims who will repent and stay steadfast.

October 2015 Questions

9. Give a brief description of the battle of Uhud. Which two parties are referred to in verse 123 and why? ______

10. How do verses 125 and 126 illustrate Allah Almighty’s help to Muslims in times of danger? What does the number of Angels in both verses signify? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 29 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

November 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 127 to 130 of the 13th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:127] And Allah has made it only as glad tidings for you and that your hearts might be at rest thereby; and help comes from Allah alone, the Mighty, the Wise.

[3:128] God will do so that He might cut off a part of the disbelievers or abase them so that they might go back frustrated.

[3:129] Thou hast no concern in the matter: He may turn to them in mercy or punish them, for they are wrongdoers.

[3:130] And to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. He forgives whomsoever He pleases and punishes whomsoever He pleases, and Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful.

Learn these words with translation:

Ghafoorurraheem Khaaibeena Yakbitahum Litatma’inna

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 30 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw asked his Companions: “Do you know who is poor?” They said: “A poor man amongst us is one who has neither dirham with him nor wealth.” Hesaw said: “The poor of my Ummah would be he who would come on the Day of Resurrection with prayers and fasts and Zakat but (he would find himself bankrupt on that day as he would have exhausted his funds of virtues) since he hurled abuses upon others, brought calumny against others and unlawfully consumed the wealth of others and shed the blood of others and beat others, and his virtues would be credited to the account of one (who suffered at his hand). And if his good deeds fall short to clear the account, then his sins would be entered in (his account) and he would be thrown in the Hell-Fire.” (Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin p. 811; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p.53) b) ‘Ubadah Bin As-Samitra narrates that the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw said, “Assure me of six things concerning you, and I will assure your entry into Paradise: • When you speak, say the truth. • When you make a promise, fulfil it. • When you are given a trust, convey it when demanded. [There should be no excuses.] • Safeguard your private parts. • Keep your eyes cast down. • Hold your hands from cruelty.” (Musnadu Ahmadabni Hanbal, Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 30)

The above Ahadith relate to the 2nd Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 2nd Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 127 – 130

God’s mercy and forgiveness will accompany Muslims and His punishment will fall on their enemies. A prophet never prays for the destruction of any people without the permission of God. Allah is more inclined for forgiveness and mercy than to punishment, although He sometimes has to resort to the latter for the ultimate good of mankind.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 31 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

November 2015 Questions

11. What is meant by (‘wa mun nusro illah min indillahhe’) in verse 127 of Surah Al-Imran? ______

12. During the battle of Uhud when a party of Muslims posted at a strategic location left their positions prematurely, their victory turned into a temporary defeat. What positive results of this defeat of Muslims are mentioned in ‘The Short Commentary of the Holy Qur’an’, verse 129? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 32 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

December 2015

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 131 to 137 of the 14th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:131] O ye who believe! devour not interest involving diverse additions; and fear Allah that you may prosper.

[3:132] And fear the Fire prepared for the disbelievers.

[3:133] And obey Allah and the Messenger that you be shown mercy.

[3:134] And vie with one another in asking for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a Paradise whose price is the heavens and the earth, prepared for the God-fearing —

[3:135] Those who spend in prosperity and adversity, and those who suppress anger and pardon men; and Allah loves those who do good;

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 33 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

[3:136] And those who, when they commit a foul deed or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins — and who can forgive sins except Allah? — and do not persist knowingly in what they have done.

[3:137] It is these whose reward is forgiveness from their Lord, and Gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide; and how good is the reward of those who work!

Learn these words with translation:

Yusirroo Wal’aafeena Walkaazimeena Saari’oo Arribaa

Hadith a)

Hazrat Ziadra relates a hadith narrated by his uncle Hazrat Qutbahra that the Holy Prophetsaw used to pray, “O my Allah, I seek Thy refuge from bad manners, bad deeds and bad desires.” (Tirmidhi; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.799) b) Hazrat Abdullah bin Masoodra asked the Holy Prophetsaw: “What is the biggest act of cruelty?” Holy Prophetsaw replied: “It is breeching the trust by confiscating even a handful of soil from the land entrusted to you by your brother.” (Abu Dawud; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p.52)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 34 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

c) A Hadith relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “To slander against a Believer is debauchery and to murder a Believer is Kufr.” (Al Fazal International, Oct. 3-9, 2003, p. 2; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p.51)

The above Ahadith relate to the 2nd Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 2nd Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 131 to 137

Muslims are further told that the Jews and Christians depend on interest for their power and might, but the taking and giving of interest runs counter to good morals. Muslims are forbidden to take interest. They should, therefore, derive their power from helping the poor. Secondly, Christians depend on Atonement, a doctrine born of the view that repentance will not be accepted. By taking interest, the People of the Book oppress God’s servants and by subscribing to the belief of non-acceptance of repentance, they declare God to be cruel like themselves. Muslims are enjoined to avoid this doctrine and to ask for forgiveness of God if they happen to commit a sinful act.

December 2015 Questions

13. Why is interest prohibited? How can interest contribute to injustice and war? Can a financial system sustain without interest? ______

14. Describe the three stages of ‘Afw’ (forgiveness) as mentioned in verse 135. How does Allah accept and reward true repentance as stated in verse137? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 35 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

Quarter 4

(January, February, & March 2016)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayers 6 & 7 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Holy Qur’an proves Jesusas was a human being and prophet of God. Proof of his death is the rejuvenation of Islam. (See Appendix D)

Annual Taleem Test

Book Reading: At home, read condition 5 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the book Our Teaching by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiahas.

January 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 138 to 144 of the 14th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:138] Surely, there have been many dispensations before you; so travel through the earth and see how evil was the end of those who treated the Prophets as liars.

[3:139] This (the Qur’an) is a clear demonstration to men, and a guidance and an admonition to the Godfearing.

[3:140] Slacken not, nor grieve; and you shall certainly have the upper hand, if you are believers.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 36 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

[3:141] If you have received an injury, surely the disbelieving people have already received a similar injury. And such days We cause to alternate among men that they may be admonished, and that Allah may distinguish those who believe and may take witnesses from among you; and Allah loves not the unjust;

[3:142] And that Allah may purify those who believe, and destroy the disbelievers.

[3:143] Do you suppose that you will enter Heaven while Allah has not yet distinguished those of you that strive in the way of Allah and has not yet distinguished the steadfast?

[3:144] And you used to wish for this death before you met it; now you have seen it while you were actually looking for it.

Learn these words with translation:

Tamannauna Yamhaqa Qarhun Laa tahzanoo Laa tahinoo

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 37 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “No Muslim suffers any calamity, suffering, pain, discomfort, or anxiety, even as small as the prick of a thorn, but Allah wipes out instead some of his defaults and his sins.” (Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.792; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 95) b) Hazrat Suhaib Bin Sinanra has related that: The Holy Prophetsaw said, “Wondrous is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything, and it is so for him alone. If he experiences something agreeable, he is grateful to God and that is good for him; and if he experiences adversity, he is steadfast and that is good for him because he earns merit for his steadfastness.” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 94) c) Hazrat Usaidra relates that he heard from a woman-Companionra who had taken a pledge at the hand of the Holy Prophetsaw that the pledge included the following: “We will not disobey the Holy Prophetsaw, will not tear our faces in wailing, will not raise a hue and cry during mourning, and will not tear our clothes or keep our hair ruffled.” (Abu Dawud; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 94)

The above Ahadith relate to the 5th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 5th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall remain faithful to God in all circumstances of life, in sorrow and in happiness, in adversity and in prosperity, in felicity and in trial; and that he/she shall in all conditions remain resigned to the decree of God and keep himself/herself ready to face all kinds of indignities and sufferings in His way and shall never turn away from Him at the onslaught of any misfortune; on the contrary, he/she shall march forward.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 138 – 144

Muslims are comforted by the knowledge that God has always destroyed the enemies of His Messengers. They should do their duty, make suitable sacrifices, employ the material means at their disposal and leave the rest to God. He would see that victory comes to them; they are only required to make as much effort as should demonstrate the depth and sincerity of their faith.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 38 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

January 2016 Questions

15. How does verse 140 illustrate the rise and fall of nations? How can a nation or individual remain strong? ______

16. How does a true believer benefit from trials and tribulations? ______

A believer never has his fill of knowledge till he ends up in Paradise (Abu Daud and Tirmidhi).

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 39 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

February 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 145 to 146 of the 15th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:145] And Muhammad is only a Messenger. Verily, all Messengers have passed away before him. If then he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels? And he who turns back on his heels shall not harm Allah at all. And Allah will certainly reward the grateful.

[3:146] And no soul can die except by Allah’s leave — a decree with a fixed term. And whoever desires the reward of the present world, We will give him thereof; and whoever desires the reward of the life to come, We will give him thereof; and We will surely reward the grateful.

Learn these words with translation:

Nu’tihee Mu’ajjalan Kitaaban Sayajzee ‘Alaa a’qaabikum

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 40 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Hadith a)

Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw passed by a woman who was crying by the side of a grave. He said to her, “Be mindful of thy duty to Allah and be steadfast.” She responded, “Leave me alone; you have not been afflicted as I have been.” She had not known who he was. Someone told her, “That was the Holy Prophetsaw.” She proceeded to the door of the Holy Prophetsaw and not finding any doorman went in and said to him, “I had not recognized you.” He said, “Steadfastness means to be resigned at the time of the first shock of grief.” (Bukhari; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.798; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 95) b) Hazrat Muhammad Bin Ibrahimra narrates a hadith from Hazrat ‘Aishahra, “Once I was sleeping by the side of the Holy Prophetsaw. During a time at night I did not find him there. While searching around, my hand touched his feet while he was prostrating. He was praying, “Allah, I seek the protection of Thy pleasure against Thy displeasure; and I seek the protection of Thy forgiveness against Thy punishment. I cannot count the ways of praising Thee. You are as You have described Your Holy Self.”” (Tirmadhi; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, p. 96) c) Another tradition says that: Someone from Medina heard from Hazrat ‘Abdul Wahhab Bin al- Wardra that Hazrat Mu‘awiyahra wrote to Hazrat ‘Aishahra requesting some advice. She replied, “Assalamu Alaikum. I have heard the Holy Prophetsaw say, “One who seeks the pleasure of Allah, even at the cost of displeasing some people, Allah is Sufficient for him against them. But he who displeases Allah for the sake of pleasing some people, Allah hands him over to those people.”” (Tirmadhi; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V, p. 97)

The above Ahadith relate to the 5th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 5th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 145 – 146

In these verses God says that in the vast chain of truth, the Holy Prophetsaw is a Divine messenger and if he should happen to die or be killed in battle (though in conformity with God’s promise he could not be killed), Muslims should not lose heart. Muhammadsaw is a prophet; and as other prophets before him had died, so would he. But the God of Islam is ever living. The other important fact is clearly stated that the prophets who lived before the Holy Prophetsaw had

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 41 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

all died. Therefore, the idea of any prophet having risen to heaven is refuted. It is clearly proved, without a shadow of doubt, that Jesusas who was one of the prophets is not physically alive in the heavens.

February 2016 Questions

17. Describe the event referred to in verse 145 that occurred during the Battle of Uhud. How does this verse prove that Jesusas is not physically alive in the heavens? ______

18. What important fact is described in verse 146? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 42 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

March 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 147 to 149 of the 15th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:147] And many a Prophet there has been beside whom fought numerous companies of their followers. They slackened not for aught that befell them in the way of Allah, nor did they weaken, nor did they humiliate themselves before the enemy. And Allah loves the steadfast.

[3:148] And they uttered not a word except that they said: ‘Our Lord, forgive us our errors and our excesses in our conduct, and make firm our steps and help us against the disbelieving people.’

[3:149] So Allah gave them the reward of this world, as also an excellent reward of the next; and Allah loves those who do good.

Learn these words with translation:

Mastakaanoo Dza’ufoo Wahanoo Ribbiyyoona Ka’ayyin

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 43 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Hadith a)

Hazrat Ibn-e-‘Abbasra has related that: I was once riding with the Holy Prophetsaw. He said, “My dear child, I am going to teach you a few things: Keep Allah in mind, He will safeguard you; keep Allah in mind, you will find Him nearby. When in need, ask only of Allah; if you need help, ask Him alone for help. Remember, if the whole world joins together to benefit you, it can do nothing to benefit you, except if Allah wishes and decrees it for you. And if they all join to hurt you, they can do nothing to hurt you, except if Allah decrees the harm for you.” (Tirmadhi; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.148; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 96) b) Another version is: Keep Allah in mind, you will find Him before you. Recognize Allah in times of ease, He will recognize you in times of hardship. Remember, what escaped you was not decreed for you; and what is decreed for you will definitely come to you. Remember, the help of Allah comes as a result of steadfastness, and times of ease and times of hardship are commingled, and every hardship is followed by times of ease. (Riad-us- Salihin; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 96) c) The Holy Prophetsaw said: “Focus yourself on Allah: you will see Him before you. Remember Him in your good times: He will remember you in your bad times. And whatever you have lost was not in your destiny, and whatever you have received was meant to be for you. Remember, Allah helps those who are patient. Happiness and sadness are juxtaposed, and good times follow bad times.” (Bukhari; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA; p.101)

The above Ahadith relate to the 5th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 5th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 44 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 147 to 149

In these verses believers are encouraged with examples of past righteous companions of prophets. The prayer of those companions points to the fact that success comes only by the help and grace of Allah. Human effort alone is not enough. The rewards for these followers in the next life are excellent.

March 2016 Questions

19. What important point is emphasized in the prayer given in these verses and what is its significance? ______

20. What is meant by “excellent rewards” in verse 149 and who are the recipients of these rewards? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 45 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Quarter 5

(April, May, & June 2016)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER: Special Note: Due to Ramadhan activities, the Taleem program has been reduced for this quarter. During this special month effort should be made to increase our personal Ibadaat through fasting, extra Nawafal and reading of the Holy Qur’an. The program for two months has been provided. It will be the choice of the local Majlis to select which 2 of the 3 months to cover this program.

Memorization: Prayers 8 & 9 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/ Module: Obedience to Nizam-e-Jama’t, respect for office and humility and loving conduct in office holders. Conduct Quiz on Ramadhan

Book Reading: At home, read condition 6 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the Lajna Constitution.

April 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 150 to 153 of the 16th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:150] O ye who believe! if you obey those who have disbelieved, they will cause you to turn back on your heels, and you will become losers.

[3:151] Nay, Allah is your Protector, and He is the Best of helpers.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 46 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

[3:152] We shall strike terror into the hearts of those that have disbelieved because they associate partners with Allah for which He has sent down no authority. Their abode is the Fire; and evil is the habitation of the wrongdoers.

[3:153] And Allah had surely made good to you His promise when you were slaying and destroying them by His leave, until, when you became lax and disagreed among yourselves concerning the order and you disobeyed after He had shown you that which you loved, He withdrew His help. Among you were those who desired the present world, and among you were those who desired the next. Then He turned you away from them that He might try you — and He has surely pardoned you, and Allah is Gracious to the believers. —

Learn these words with translation:

‘Asaitum Fashiltum Tahussoonahum Mathwa In tutee’oo

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 47 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Hadith a)

Hazrat ‘Aishahra has related that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “An innovation in religion which has nothing to do with matters of faith is to be rejected and is unacceptable.” (Bukhari; “Hadeeqatus Salahin” p. 227; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 106) b) Hazrat ‘Amr Bin al-‘Aufra has narrated that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “The person who revives any one of my sunnah so that others start practicing it, he will reap the reward equal to all those persons’ rewards who act upon that sunnah, and their reward shall remain with them as well. The person who introduces an innovation and others adopt it, he shall share in the sins of all those who act on it, and their sins will remain with them as well.” (Ibn-e-Majah; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 107) c) ‘Abdur-Rahman Bin ‘Amr As-Salami and Hazrat Hujr Bin Hujr said, “We went to ‘Irbad Bin Sariyahra who said, “One day the Apostle of Allah led us in the morning Prayer, then gave us a very effective and eloquent exhortation at which the eyes shed tears and the hearts became fearful. A man among the audience said, “O Apostle of Allah! It seems as if it were a farewell exhortation! So, what injunction do you give us?” He then said, “I enjoin you to fear Allah, hear and obey even if your Amir [Leader] be an Abyssinian slave, for a time is coming that those of you who live after me will see great disagreement. You must then follow my rightly guided Khulafa’ [caliphs] and me. Stick to it and hold fast to it. You have to avoid innovations in the religion, for every innovations introduced in the name of religion is an undesirable one, and every innovation is a manifest error.”” (Tirmadhi; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 116)

The above Ahadith relate to the 6th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 6th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall refrain from following un-Islamic customs and lustful inclinations and shall completely submit himself/herself to the authority of the Holy Qur’an; and that he/she shall make the Word of God and the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsaw his/ her guiding principles in every walk of his/her life.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 150 – 153

Muslims are warned against dealing with those disbelievers who are enemies of Islam. Muslims are alerted against them, and told not to fear them, because God is with them. Believers, throughout the ages, have been fighting with enemies of the truth in adverse circumstances and as a result have always achieved worldly and spiritual prosperity. Lajna Ima’illah-USA 48 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

April 2016 Questions

21. How can idolatry or shirk, even in its most trivial form, influence human character? Discuss some examples from day to day life. ______

22. Discuss the events of the battle of Uhud as described in verse 153. What is meant by the “promise of Allah” in this verse? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 49 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

May/June 2016 Holy Qur’an Read the following verses 154 to 156 of the 16th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:154] When you were running away and looked not back at anyone while the Messenger was calling out to you from your rear, then He gave you a sorrow in recompense for a sorrow, that you might not grieve for what escaped you, nor for what befell you. And Allah is well aware of what you do.

[3:155] Then, after the sorrow, He sent down peace on you — a slumber that overcame a party of you — while the other party was anxious concerning their own selves, thinking wrongly of Allah like unto the thought of ignorance. They said, ‘Is there for us any part in the government of affairs?’ Say, ‘All government belongs to Allah.’ They hide in their minds what they disclose not to thee. They say, ‘If we had any part in the government of affairs, we should not have been killed here.’ Say, ‘If you had remained in your homes, surely those on whom fighting had been enjoined would have gone forth to their deathbeds,’ that Allah might bring about His decree and that Allah might test what was in your breasts and that He might purge what was in your hearts. And Allah knows well what is in the minds;

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 50 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

[3:156] Those of you who turned their backs on the day when the two hosts met, surely it was Satan who sought to make them slip because of certain doings of theirs. But certainly Allah has already pardoned them. Verily, Allah is Most Forgiving, Forbearing.

Learn these words with translation:

Ahammathum Yaghshaa Nu’aasan Tas’idoona Talwoona

Hadith a)

Hazrat Anasra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “The example of him (a believer) who recites the Qur’an is like that of a citron which tastes good and smells good. And a believer who does not recite the Qur’an but acts upon it is like a date, which is good in taste but has no smell. And the example of a hypocrite who recites the Qur’an is like the basil, which smells good but tastes bitter. And the example of a hypocrite who neither recites the Qur’an nor acts upon it like the colocynth, which tastes bitter and has bad smell.” (Abu Dawud; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.220; also by Abu Musa al-Asharira in Bukhari; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 111) b) Hazrat Abu Hurairahra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “Whenever people gather together in one of the houses of Allah for recitation of the Qur’an and teaching it to one another, comfort descends upon them, mercy covers them, angels spread their wings over

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 51 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

them and Allah makes mention of them to those around Him.” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Lajna Ima’illah, USA, p. 112) c) Hazrat ‘Ubadah Bin As-Samitra narrates, “We made a solemn pledge at the hand of the Messenger of Allah on the condition that we will pay heed to and obey all his directives whether we like them or not.” (Bukhari, Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 116)

The above Ahadith relate to the 6th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 6th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 154 – 156

The incident of Uhud is mentioned in these verses and the lesson is driven home to Muslims that sometimes a slight exhibition of weakness can result in dire consequences.

May/June 2016 Questions

23. Which two “sorrows” are mentioned in verse 154? ______

24. Who are the two parties referred to in verse 156? How did their performance differ from each other during the battle of Uhud? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 52 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, & June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Quarter 6

(July, August, & September 2016)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayers 10 & 11 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/ Module: Why was Lajna Ima’illah established and what are the goals and objectives of this auxiliary?

Book Reading: At home, read conditions 7 and 8 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the Lajna Constitution.

July 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 157 to 160 of the 17th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:157] O ye who believe! be not like those who have disbelieved, and who say of their brethren when they travel in the land or go forth to war: ‘Had they been with us, they would not have died or been slain.’ This is so, that Allah may make it a cause of regret in their hearts. And Allah gives life and causes death and Allah is Mindful of what you do.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 53 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

[3:158] And if you are slain in the cause of Allah or you die, surely forgiveness from Allah and mercy shall be better than what they hoard.

[3:159] And if you die or be slain, surely unto Allah shall you be gathered together.

[3:160] And it is by the great mercy of Allah that thou art kind towards them, and if thou hadst been rough and hard-hearted, they would surely have dispersed from around thee. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them, and consult them in matters of administration; and when thou art determined, then put thy trust in Allah. Surely, Allah loves those who put their trust in Him.

Learn these words with translation:

Ghaleezal qalbi Fazzan Linta Muttum Ghuzzan

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 54 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

Hadith a)

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Bin Mas‘udra narrated that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “One whose heart has arrogance as little as a small grain will not be allowed to enter Paradise.” One man said, “O Prophet of Allah! Man wishes to be well-dressed, to have good shoes on, and to look good.” The Holy Prophetsaw replied, “This is not arrogance,” adding, “Allah the Almighty is Elegant and likes elegance, that is, He likes beauty. Real arrogance is when man rejects what is true, considers people lowly, holds them in contempt and treats them badly.” (Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.810; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 126) b) Hazrat Abu Sa‘id Khudrira narrates with reference to the Holy Prophetsaw that he loved the meek. Hazrat Abu Sa‘id Khudrira said that he heard the Holy Prophetsaw praying: “O Allah keep me alive in a state of meekness, give me death in a state of meekness, and raise me from among the group of the meek.” (Ibn-e-Majah; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p 136).

The above Ahadith relate to the 7th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 7th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall entirely give up pride and vanity and shall pass all his/her life in humbleness, cheerfulness, forbearance and meekness.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 157 – 160

Lessons learned from the battle of Uhud are mentioned in previous verses. In these verses, the lesson that national unity should not be undermined in a situation of crises is mentioned. Anyone who does so is not a friend of Allah. Another rule of conduct to be observed is that in time of warfare, leaders should behave more leniently than usual towards their followers and should have proper regard for their vulnerabilities. By doing so, they will prevent the enemy from creating any discord amongst them. All matters should be dealt with mutual consultation.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 55 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

July 2016 Questions

25. What is the fundamental difference between the beliefs of true believers and hypocrites regarding death in the cause of Allah? Explain why. ______

26. The quality of consultation is unique in Islam. Describe how it was practiced by the Holy Prophetsaw, and how it is replicated in the Ahmadiyya Jama’at. ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 56 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

August 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 161 to 166 of the 17th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:161] If Allah help you, none shall overcome you; but if He forsake you, then who is there that can help you beside Him? In Allah, then, let the believers put their trust.

[3:162] And it is not possible for a Prophet to act dishonestly, and whoever acts dishonestly shall bring with him that about which he has been dishonest, on the Day of Resurrection. Then shall every soul be fully paid what it has earned; and they shall not be wronged.

[3:163] Is he who follows the pleasure of Allah like him who draws on himself the wrath of Allah and whose abode is Hell? And an evil retreat it is!

[3:164] They have different grades of grace with Allah; and Allah sees what they do.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 57 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

[3:165] Verily, Allah has conferred a favour on the believers by raising among them a Messenger from among themselves, who recites to them His Signs, and purifies them and teaches them the Book and Wisdom; and, before that, they were surely in manifest error.

[3:166] What! when a misfortune befalls you — and you had inflicted the double of that — you say, whence is this? Say, ‘It is from your own selves.’ Surely, Allah has power over all things.

Learn these words with translation:

‘Asabtum Ma’waahu Bisakhatin Tuwaffaa Ghalla

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 58 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra narrates that his father Umar bin Khataabra told him that one day they were in the audience of the Holy Prophetsaw that a person came; he was dressed up in a pure white outfit and had dark black hair; he did not appear to have come from a journey nor was he known to anyone of us. He faced the Holy Prophetsaw and put his knees next to the knees of the Holy Prophetsaw and his hands on the Holy Prophetsaw’s thighs; then said “O Muhammadsaw tell me something about Islam.” At this the Holy Prophetsaw said “Islam is that you bear witness that there is no God but Allah and Muhammadsaw is His messenger; and that you establish salat and pay Zakat and fast in the month of Ramadhan, and perform Hajj saw if you can afford to.” At this the stranger responded, “You are correct.” (Bukhari; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.234) [Note: This is part of a long hadith and, according to the Holy Prophetsaw this stranger was the angel Gabrielas who had come to teach Islam to the believers.] b) Hazrat Mustaurid ibn Shaddadra relates that the Holy Prophetsaw said: “The value of the world in comparison with the hereafter is as if one of you dipped a finger in the ocean and then observed how much moisture sticks to it when he pulls it back.” (Muslim; “Conditions of Bai’at” by Lajna Ima’illah USA, p. 141)

The above Ahadith relate to the 8th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 8th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall hold faith, the honor of faith and the cause of Islam dearer than his/her life, wealth, honor, children, and all loved ones.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 59 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 161 – 166

These verses further reiterate the lessons learned after the battle of Uhud. The Holy Qur’an highlights that success is not possible without the help of God; therefore, the demands of religion and morality should not be disregarded for petty worldly gains. God reminds Muslims of the great good He has done to them by raising a perfect Messenger for them. They should follow him and avoid the path of those who disturb peace, so they may achieve success.

August 2016 Questions

27. What apprehension led some archers to leave their posts during the battle of Uhud, and why is it condemned in verse 162? ______

28. How and why does verse 165 equate the Holy Prophetsaw to his followers as a man like them? Explain the three steps a prophet performs in order to change the condition of believers as mentioned in verse 165. ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 60 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

September 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 167 to 172 of the 17th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:167] And that which befell you, on the day when the two parties met, was by Allah’s command; and this was so that He might distinguish the believers;

[3:168] And that He might distinguish the hypocrites. And it was said to them, ‘Come ye, fight in the cause of Allah and repel the attack of the enemy;’ they said, ‘If we knew how to fight, we would surely follow you.’ They were, that day, nearer to disbelief than to belief. They say with their mouths what is not in their hearts. And Allah knows well what they conceal.

[3:169] It is these who said of their brethren, while they themselves remained behind, ‘If they had obeyed us, they would not have been slain.’ Say, ‘Then avert death from yourselves, if you are truthful.’

[3:170] Think not of those, who have been slain in the cause of Allah, as dead. Nay, they are living, in the presence of their Lord, and are granted gifts from Him,

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 61 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

[3:171] Jubilant because of that which Allah has given them of His bounty; and rejoicing for those who have not yet joined them from behind them, because on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve.

[3:172] They rejoice at the favour of Allah and His bounty, and at the fact that Allah suffers not the reward of the believers to be lost.

Learn these words with translation:

‘ Yastabshiroona Fariheena La tahsabanna Fadra’oo Ta’aalau

Hadith a)

Hazrat Anas Bin Malikra narrates, “I was serving wine prepared from dates to Abu Talhah Ansarira, Abu ‘Ubaidah Bin Jarrahra and Ubayy Bin Ka‘abra. Someone came and said alcohol has been forbidden, and when Abu Talhahra heard this he said to Anasra, “Get up and break the containers of wine.” Anasra adds that he got up and hit the containers with the bottom of Lajna Ima’illah-USA 62 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

the stone vase and it broke them.” (Bukhari; Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.228; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 143) b) Hazrat Abdullah bin Umarra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said “Allah ta’ala will not aggregate my Ummah on delusion and deception. Allah ta’ala’s help is for organization. , which means whoever separates from the organization is as if being thrown in fire.” (Tirmidhi; Friday Sermon August 27, 2004) c) Hazrat Sufyanra says that once I said, “O Messenger of Allah, tell me something of Islam after which I will not have to ask anyone else and I should be fully satisfied.” Huzoorsaw replied, ‘You should say: I believe in Allah the Almighty, then become firm on it, and stay on it with fortitude.’” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba p. 142)

The above Ahadith relate to the 8th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 8th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 167 – 172

In these verses, the Holy Qur’an lays down a great principle. Those who lose their lives while fighting for the cause of truth are entitled to special respect. It is these people who get eternal life and it is they who exhibit such morals that give life to their community.

September 2016 Questions

29. According to verse 168, how did the sufferings of Muslims at Uhud prove to be a blessing in disguise? ______

30. Why are the martyrs glad as mentioned in verse 171? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 63 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, & September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

Quarter 7

(October, November, & December 2016)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayers 12 & 13 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Hold Jalsa Seeratun-Nabisaw. Arrange special activities during the month of October, to learn and understand the life and character of the Holy Prophetsaw.

Book Reading: At home, read condition 9 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the Lajna Constitution.

October 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 173 to 177 of the 18th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:173] As to those who answered the call of Allah and the Messenger after they had received an injury — such of them as do good and act righteously shall have a great reward;

[3:174] Those to whom men said, ‘People have mustered against you, therefore fear them,’ but this only increased their faith, and they said, ‘Sufficient for us is Allah, and an excellent Guardian is He.’

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 64 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

[3:175] So they returned with a mighty favour from Allah and a great bounty, while no evil had touched them; and they followed the pleasure of Allah; and Allah is the Lord of great bounty.

[3:176] It is Satan who only frightens his friends; so fear them not but fear Me, if you are believers.

[3:177] And let not those who hastily fall into disbelief grieve thee; surely, they cannot harm Allah in any way. Allah desires not to assign any portion for them in the life to come; and they shall have a severe punishment.

Learn these words with translation:

Yusaari’oona Yukhawwifu Ni’mal wakeel Fakhshauhum Istajaaboo

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 65 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Messenger of Allah said, “Allah the Almighty and the Glorious will say on the Day of Judgment, “O son of Adam, I was sick but you did not attend to Me.” Man will say, “O Lord. How could I attend to You? You are the Lord of all the worlds.” Allah the Almighty will say, “Did you not know that so and so of My servants was sick? You did not attend to him. Did you not know that if you had done so, you would have found Me near him? O son of Adam, I asked you for food but you did not give Me any food.” Upon this the son of Adam will say, “O my Lord. How could I feed You whereas You are the Lord of all the worlds?” Allah the Almighty will say, “Do you not remember when a servant of Mine asked you for food? You did not feed him. Did you not know that if you had fed him, you would have had a reward with Me? O son of Adam! I asked you for water, but you did not give me any water.” Son of Adam will say, “O my Lord. How could I serve you water, whereas You are the Lord of all the worlds?” Upon this, Allah the Almighty will say, “Such and such person asked you for some water, but you did not offer him any. If you had given him water, you would have had its reward with Me.”” (Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.550; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 154)

The above Ahadith relate to the 9th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 9th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall keep himself/herself occupied in the service of God’s creatures for His sake only and shall endeavor towards the beneficence of mankind to the best of his/her God-given abilities and powers.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 66 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 173 – 177

These verses refer to the “eternal life” reward for those who give their lives for the protection of their community. Reference is made to the time after the battle of Uhud when these faithful Muslims faced the danger of other attacks. They were ever ready to lay down their lives for the cause of their religion. Another group is also mentioned in these verses. We are told that there are always some weak people in every community, but we should not be afraid of having these people among us.

October 2016 Questions

31. Describe the two expeditions mentioned in verses 173 and 174. ______

32. How does Satan attempt to harm Islam but fails as described in verses 176 and 177? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 67 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

November 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 178 to 181 of the 18th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:178] Surely, those who have purchased disbelief at the price of faith cannot harm Allah at all; and they shall have a grievous punishment.

[3:179] And let not the disbelievers think that Our granting them respite is good for them; the result of Our granting them respite will only be that they will increase in sin; and they shall have an humiliating punishment.

[3:180] Allah would not leave the believers as you are, until He separated the wicked from the good. Nor would Allah reveal to you the unseen. But Allah chooses of His Messengers whom He pleases. Believe, therefore, in Allah and His Messengers. If you believe and be righteous, you shall have a great reward.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 68 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

[3:181] And let not those, who are niggardly with respect to what Allah has given them of His bounty, think that it is good for them; nay, it is evil for them. That with respect to which they were niggardly shall be put as a collar round their necks on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth, and Allah is well aware of what you do.

Learn these words with translation:

Sayutawwaqoona Yajtabee Liyadhara Numlee Laa yahsabanna

Hadith a)

Hazrat ‘Alira narrates that the Messenger of Allah said: “Every Muslim has six obligations with regard to other Muslims: (1) When he meets him, he should say “Assalamo ‘Alaikum”; (2) When one sneezes, he should say, “Yarhamukumullah” [may Allah have mercy on you]; (3) When he is sick, he should visit him; (4) When one calls him for help, he responds to him; (5) When one dies, he comes to his funeral; (6) And he desires for them what he

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 69 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

desires for himself, and even in his absence he wishes him well.” (Sunanud-Darimiyyi; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 155; also Bukhari and Hadeeqatus Salahin, p.654) b) Hazrat ‘Abdullah Bin ‘Umarra states that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “The Gracious God will be Merciful to those who show mercy to others. You show mercy to the dwellers of the earth, and the One in the heavens will have mercy on you.” (Abu Dawud; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 158) c) Hazrat ‘Abdullah Bin Mas‘udra states that the Messenger of Allah said, “All creatures are God’s family. So, Allah likes the person, from among all humans, who treats His family (creatures) well and looks after their needs.” (Mishkat-ul-Masabih; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 155)

The above Ahadith relate to the 9th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 9th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 178 – 181

The subject continues that the cause of the Holy Prophetsaw or of Islam is actually the cause of Allah himself, and no one can harm Allah. God reveals His Will only to His Messengers and the chosen ones, since they are pure and noble.

November 2016 Questions

33. What distinguishes hypocrites from true believers as described in verses 180 and 181? ______

34. What is meant by “Allah chooses of His Messengers whom He pleases” in verse 180? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 70 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

December 2016

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 182 to 185 of the 19th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:182] And surely Allah has heard the utterance of those who said, ‘Allah is poor and we are rich.’ We shall record what they have said, and their attempts to kill the Prophets unjustly; and We shall say, ‘Taste ye the punishment of burning.’

[3:183] That is because of that which your hands have sent on before yourselves, and the truth is that Allah is not at all unjust to His servants.

[3:184] Those who say, ‘Allah has charged us not to believe in any Messenger until he bring us an offering which fire devours.’ Say, ‘There have already come to you Messengers before me with clear Signs and with that which you speak of. Why, then, did you seek to kill them, if you are truthful?’

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 71 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

[3:185] And if they accuse thee of lying, even so were accused of lying Messengers before thee who came with clear Signs and books of wisdom and the shining Book.

Learn these words with translation:

Adhdhuburi Ahida ilainaa Zallaamin Al hareeqi Faqeerun

Hadith a)

Hazrat ‘Abdullah Bin ‘Umarra narrates that the Messenger of Allah said, “Do not be jealous of one another. Do not raise prices to harm each other. Do not hold grudges against each other. Do not turn your backs on each other, and do not be indifferent to each other. And do not bid on deals that are closed. Instead, you should live like servants of God and be brotherly to each other. A Muslim does not wrong his brother. He does not insult him, and he does not embarrass or humiliate him.” He pointed to his chest and said, “Piety is here.” He repeated these words three times then said, ‘It is enough misfortune for a man that he should look at his Muslim brother with disdain. Every Muslim’s blood, wealth, honour and respect are sacred and sanctified for the other Muslim.”” (Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin p. 675; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 156)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 72 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

b) Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Do not hold grudges, do not be indifferent to each other nor compete with each other in worldly matters. O people of Allah be like brothers.” (Muslim, Vol. 13, p.225; Translated by Lajna Taleem Department)

The above Ahadith relate to the 9th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 9th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 182 – 185

The moral corruption of People of the Book is further contrasted with their claim that they are commanded to give their allegiance only to that Messenger who should demand the greatest sacrifice. God says that such Messengers did appear among them, but they refused to accept them.

December 2016 Questions

35. What was the objection of the Jewish people regarding the truth of a prophet? How has Allah responded to it in verse 184? ______

36. What are “Zabur” and “Torah” as mentioned in verse 185? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 73 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, & December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

Quarter 8

(January, February, & March 2017)

ACTIVITIES FOR THE QUARTER:

Memorization: Prayers 14 & 15 (See Appendix A)

Special Activity/Module: Review Lajna Constitution rules in a workshop or other creative form with focus on rules that pertain to you as a general member and Amila member, if applicable.

Annual Taleem Test

Book Reading: At home, read condition 10 from the book Conditions of Bai’at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, and read pages (assigned by the local Sadr) of the Lajna Constitution.

January 2017

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 186 to 190 of the 19th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:186] Every soul shall taste of death. And you shall be paid in full your rewards only on the Day of Resurrection. So whosoever is removed away from the Fire and is made to enter Heaven has indeed attained his goal. And the life of this world is nothing but an illusory enjoyment.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 74 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

[3:187] You shall surely be tried in your possessions and in your persons and you shall surely hear many hurtful things from those who were given the Book before you and from those who set up equals to God. But if you show fortitude and act righteously, that indeed is a matter of strong determination.

[3:188] And remember when Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Book, saying, ‘You shall make this Book known to the people and not conceal it.’ But they threw it away behind their backs, and bartered it for a paltry price. Evil is that which they have purchased.

[3:189] Think not that those who exult in what they have done, and love to be praised for what they have not done — think not that they are secure from punishment. They shall suffer a grievous chastisement.

[3:190] And to Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth; and Allah has power over all things.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 75 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Learn these words with translation:

Mafaazatin Fabi’sa Meethaaqa Latublawunna Zuhziha

Hadith a)

Says Abu Hurairahra, “One day we were sitting with the Holy Prophetsaw when Surah Jumu’ah was revealed. I asked the Holy Prophetsaw, “Who are the people to who the words And among others from them who have not yet joined them, refer. Salman the Persian was sitting among us. Upon my repeatedly asking him the same question, the Prophet put his hand on Salman and said, “If Faith were to go to Pleiades, a man from these would surely find it.”” (Bukhari also Muslim; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.892; English w/5 Volume Commentary - Holy Qur’an, p.2627) b) Hazrat ‘Arfajahra states that, “I heard the Holy Prophetsaw saying that when you are gathered together on one hand and have one leader, if someone comes and tries to break your unity so that he may create divisions among you, you ought to kill him. That is, you should cut your ties with him and not listen to him, (i.e., totally ignore his instructions).” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 187)

The above Ahadith relate to the 10th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 10th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition that reads:

That he/she shall enter into a bond of brotherhood with this humble servant of God, pledging obedience to me in everything good for the sake of God, and remain faithful to it until the day of his/her death. That he/she shall exert such a high devotion in the observance of this bond as is not to be found in any other worldly relationship and connection that demand devoted dutifulness.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 76 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 186 – 190

The theme of sacrifice is further developed in these verses. God says that it is foolish to be afraid of making sacrifices for national causes. The greatest sacrifice is to suffer death. Death is sure to come upon everyone, with the difference that the good continue to make progress even after death. Why then should one be afraid of it? Muslims are then warned that they will have to be tried. They should not think that they would achieve success without passing through the ordeal of trials and tribulations/hardships. God further says that He had commanded the People of the Book to preach and propagate these teachings; but when they themselves forgot them, how they could preach them to others? These people seek to be praised for deeds, which they have not done. Instead of praise they will be met with disgrace and destruction, because he who does not live up to his declaration of faith is never honored.

January 2017 Questions

37. How does verse 186 express the reality of life and death? ______

38. What purpose do tests and trials serve as explained in verse 187? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 77 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

February 2017

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 191 to 195 of the 20th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:191] In the creation of the heavens and the earth and in the alternation of the night and the day there are indeed Signs for men of understanding;

[3:192] Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and ponder over the creation of the heavens and the earth: “Our Lord, Thou hast not created this in vain; nay, Holy art Thou; save us, then, from the punishment of the Fire.

[3:193] “Our Lord, whomsoever Thou causest to enter the Fire, him hast Thou surely disgraced. And the wrongdoers shall have no helpers.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 78 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

[3:194] “Our Lord, we have heard a Crier calling us unto faith, ‘Believe ye in your Lord,’ and we have believed. Our Lord, forgive us, therefore, our errors and remove from us our evils, and in death number us with the righteous.

[3:195] “Our Lord, give us what Thou hast promised to us through Thy Messengers; and disgrace us not on the Day of Resurrection. Surely, Thou breakest not Thy promise.”

Learn these words with translation:

Laa tukhlifu Sayyi’aatinaa Munaadiyan Akhzaitahoo Baatilan

Hadith a)

Hazrat Thauban, Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “When you find the Mahdi perform Bai’at (pledge of allegiance) at his hands. You must go to him, even if you have to reach him across icebound mountains on your knees. He is the Mahdi and the Caliph of Allah.” (Ibn-e-Majah; “Qandeel e Sadaqat”, p.134) b) Hazrat Abu Hurairahra states that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “It is incumbent on you to listen to and obey the directives of the ruler of the time in austerity or prosperity, happiness or grief, inequity or favoritism—in any and all situations.” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 186)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 79 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

c) It is reported from Hadrat ‘Ubadahra Bin As-Samit that we took the covenant with the Holy Prophetsaw on the point that we will listen and we will obey whether we like it or dislike it. And that wherever we are, we will not dispute with the incumbent of rightful authority, we will stay firm on the truth or that we will only speak the truth and that we will not be afraid of the rebuke of anyone in matters concerning Allah the Almighty. (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 187)

The above Ahadith relate to the 10th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 10th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 191 – 195

In these verses, the special qualities of true believers are described. Muslims are taught certain prayers, the offering of which is essential for progress and prosperity.

February 2017 Questions

39. What lesson is implied by the creation of the heaven and the earth and the alteration of night and day? When men of understanding ponder over the universe what do they infer from it? ______

40. What is meant by “Dhunub and Sayyi’at” in verse 194? Why do true believers seek forgiveness after believing and obeying messengers of Allah? ______

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 80 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

March 2017

Holy Qur’an

Read the following verses 196 to 201 of the 20th Ruku of Surah Al-Imran with translation and answer the questions below.

[3:196] So their Lord answered their prayers, saying, ‘I will allow not the work of any worker from among you, whether male or female, to be lost. You are from one another. Those, therefore, who have emigrated, and have been driven out from their homes, and have been persecuted in My cause, and have fought and been killed, I will surely remove from them their evils and will cause them to enter Gardens through which streams flow — a reward from Allah, and with Allah is the best of rewards.’

[3:197] Let not the moving about of the disbelievers in the land deceive thee.

[3:198] It is a small and brief advantage, then Hell shall be their abode. What an evil place of rest!

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 81 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

[3:199] But those who fear their Lord shall have Gardens through which streams flow; therein shall they abide — an entertainment from Allah. And that which is with Allah is still better for the righteous.

[3:200] And surely among the People of the Book there are some who believe in Allah and in what has been sent down to you and in what was sent down to them, humbling themselves before Allah. They barter not the Signs of Allah for a paltry price. It is these who shall have their reward with their Lord. Surely, Allah is swift to take account.

[3:201] O ye who believe! be steadfast and strive to excel in steadfastness and be on your guard and fear Allah that you may prosper.

Learn these words with translation:

Bi’sal mihaado Laa Oodhoo Udzee’u Fastajaaba yaghurrannaka

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 82 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Hadith a)

Hazrat Abu Hurairahra narrates that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Until Jesus, son of Mary, who is a Just Ruler and Equitable Imam, appears, the end of days will not come. [When he is sent], he will break the cross*, kill the swine**, abolish jizyah and will distribute such treasures that people will not be ready to accept.” * Break the cross: refute Christian doctrines with reason and arguments ** Kill the swine: swine is used figuratively denoting greedy, dirty and annoying person-- an abomination. Also killing is through spiritual means. (Ibn-e-Majah; Hadeeqatus Salahin p.898; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 185) b) Hazrat Ibn-e-‘Umarra states that the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Whoever holds back from obedience to Allah will meet Allah the Almighty on the Day of Judgment in a condition that he would have no valid argument or excuse. And he who dies in a condition that he has not taken a pledge of allegiance with the Imam of the time would die the death of ignorance and apostasy.” (Muslim; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 188). c) Hazrat Ibn-e-‘Abbasra states that the Prophet of Allah said, “If anyone sees something undesirable in his leader and ruler, he should exercise patience because, if anyone is even slightly distant from the Jama‘at, he will die in ignorance.” (Bukhari; Conditions of Bai’at & Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vatba, p. 187)

The above Ahadith relate to the 10th Condition of Bai’at.

In the meeting, read the 10th Condition of Bai’at, then Malfoozat or writings of the Promised Messiahas related to this Condition.

Summary of Surah Al-Imran Verses 196 – 201

Muslims are told that if they pray with sincerity, their prayers will be accepted. With God’s help, they will defeat their enemy no matter how strong. The good people from among the People of the Book will accept Islam and be rewarded by Allah. The Surah concludes with rules of conduct. By observing them, Muslims can achieve success and predominance.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 83 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

March 2017 Questions

41. What is meant by “you are from one another” in verse 196? ______

42. How does verse 197 relate to the present day Christian nations? What prophecy is made about them in verses 198 and 199? What guidance is given to Muslims in the last verse of Surah Al-Imran to ensure success? ______

Upon him for whom Allah desires good, He bestows understanding of the Faith (Bokhari & Muslim).

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 84 Taleem Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, & March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

TALEEM APPENDICES

APPENDIX A – PRAYERS FOR MEMORIZATION

Quarter 1

1 O Lord, You are the Most Forgiving, the Noble. You like forgiveness, therefore forgive my sins. [Holy Prophetsaw]

2 Holy is Allah with His praise. Holy is Allah who is the Greatest. O Allah bestow blessings on Muhammadsaw and his followers. (This prayer was revealed to Promised Messiahas and should be implored often.) Quarter 2

3 Our Lord, grant us good in this world as well as good in the world to come and protect us from the torment of the Fire. [Holy Quran 2:202]

4 saw O Lord, reform the followers of Muhammad [Promised Messiahas] Quarter 3

5 Our Lord, do not punish us, if we forget or fall into error; and our Lord, lay not on us a responsibility as You did lay upon those before us; Our Lord, burden us not with what we have not the strength to bear; and efface our sins, and grant us forgiveness and have mercy on us; Thou art our Master; so help us Thou against the disbelieving people. [Holy Quran 2:287] Quarter 4

6 Our Lord, forgive us our errors and our excesses in our conduct, and make firm our steps and help us against the disbelieving people. [Holy Quran 3:148]

7 O Guardian, O Honorable and Mighty, O Companion (The Promised Messiahas has said that Rafiq is a new name of Allah which had not been mentioned before.) [Promised Messiahas]

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 85 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Quarter 5

8 Our Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after You have guided us; and bestow upon us mercy from Yourself, surely You alone are the Bestower. [Holy Quran 3:9]

9 O Lord I seek refuge from you from all filthy things, lewd actions and discourses. [Holy Prophetsaw] Quarter 6

10 Our Lord, pour forth steadfastness upon us, and make our steps firm, and help us against the disbelieving people. [Holy Quran 2:251]

11 O Allah, I seek your protection from dissention, hypocrisy and bad qualities. [Holy Prophetsaw] Quarter 7

12 O Lord of mankind, remove this illness. Restore health as You are the Healer. There is no one else who can cure. Grant such perfect health, which leaves not a single ailment behind. [Holy Prophetsaw]

13 O my Lord, everything is subservient to You. So my Lord, protect me, help me and have mercy upon me. (The Promised Messiahas states: "My heart was insprired that this is Ism-e-Azam [Greatest Name] and whosoever will recite these words will be delivered of his affliction.) [Promised Messiahas] Quarter 8

14 Our Lord, we heard a Crier calling us unto faith, "Believe you in your Lord", and we have believed. Our Lord, forgive us, therefore our sins and remove from us our evils, and in death join us with the righteous. [Holy Quran 3:194]

15 Our Lord, give us what You have promised us through Your Messengers and disgrace us not on the Day of Resurrection. Surely, You break not Your promise. [Holy Quran 3:195]

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 86 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017 APPENDIX B Continued on next page

Divine Establishment of Jama’at Ahmadiyya In the words* of Promised Messiahas * Translated by Taleem Dept.

To establish Unity, To establish ever To follow teachings of To defend Islam Glory and Love of lasting holiness of the Holy Quran from onslaught of God Holy Prophet (saw) other religions

“Remember verily! Now “What an auspicious age “According to some “This age also is that God Almighty has it is that God Almighty’s Ahadith, a time was of spiritual combat. established this Community Benevolence has destined when the Holy The war against (Jama’at) Himself. Had established this Quran would revert to the Satan has begun. this Community not been Community, in these heavens (‘meaning: it Satan is attacking the established, Christianity turbulent times, to would be abandoned). I castle of Islam with all would have spread all over manifest the certainly know that such its ammunition and the world and unity of the magnanimity of the Holy a time has come. Where illusions; it wants to ONE God would have Prophetsa. ….Has there is the purity and defeat Islam. God phased out.” (1) been ever a time when righteousness that can Almighty has the Holy Prophetsa and be attained by following established this “At this time vice and the Holy Quran were the Holy Quran? If the Community to kill immorality have increased subjected to so much time had not come, why Satan forever.” (8) manifold and avenues to contempt or humiliation? would God Almighty recognize and find God are I have been sent in order establish this “Almighty God has no longer available. to reestablish the Community?” (6) decided to do away Therefore God Almighty greatness of our Master with the eclipsed face has established this Prophet, Hazrat “The Holy Quran is a of Islam, so its Community. He has sent Muhammad Mustafasa.” living and illustrious book radiance illuminates me out of His sheer Grace (4) … Again and again I the hearts. Also it is and Mercy so that I can advise my faithful that the divine will to inform the ignorant and “Now God Almighty has God Almighty has protect Islam from the those oblivious of His decided again to established this attacks and existence. I will not only do manifest the glory of Holy community to unveil the denunciations of its this but also show them the Prophetsa’so the truth; no light and opponents. God Almighty God. The grandeur of his great radiance can be Almighty has created condition is they should name is spread all over achieved in life without this Community to come to Him with sincerity, the world; this is the the Holy Quran. It is my achieve these goals.” patience and devotion.” (2) objective for the creation wish that the beauty of (9) of this Community.” (5) Islam is exhibited through “At this time God Almighty practical truth; God has has sent a truthful sent me with this (‘forthright and devoted mission.” (7) person) to establish a community that loves Him.” (3)

"Note: The numbers above refer to specific book references. Please see page 100 for a listing of these References."

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 87 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

APPENDIX B – contd. Continued from previous page APPENDIX B – DIVINEDivine EST EstablishmentABLISHMENT OFof Jama’atJAMA’AT Ahmadiyya AHMADIYYA In the words* of Promised Messiahas * Translated by Taleem Dept.

To reform believers & To reform(INSERT mankind make our Jama’atPDF, like PAGETo establish 2 OF through spiritual that of the superiority of Islam To unite Muslims companions of Holy development and saw over all other into one Jama’at establishing Truth Prophet 2) religions

“God Almighty has revealed to me that “We do not have a new “Pay heed to the objective “Since the onset of righteousness is now lost, ideology; our only of my advent. I have come dissension in Islam, that is why God has ambition and goal is to only to revive and reinforce Islam has continuously demanded righteousness remove and dispel the Islam.” (16) been on the decline. from this Community. erroneous beliefs of This is why God has “Remember the purpose of Some are openly indulged faith in people that are established this my advent is twofold. First, in blatant immodesties and toxic for them in every Community for people at this time Islam is under others keep a kind of way.” (13) to shun sectarianism. the attack of other impurity in their actions. The teachings of this “But now God Almighty religions; it is like a weak But they are oblivious to Community are has intended to erase orphan whose rights are the fact that an entire completely devoid of all dirt and filth from the being usurped. I am sent to delicious meal can be absurd conflicts and it pure and radiant face shield and defend Islam poisoned by a meager follows the straight of Islam in order to from the aggression and amount of poison. Now path of the Holy present its qualities, assaults of the other sa God Almighty has Prophet .” (18) beauty and charm to distorted religions; also to established this Community the world.” (14) present convincing “God Almighty desires to show a model life of arguments about the truth to unite the righteous piety and purity to the “Allah Almighty of Islam. These arguments who believe in the world.” (10) established this are not just literary: they Unity of God under one Community to prepare “The objective of are associated with divine Faith, irrespective of a Jama’at similar to the establishing this blessings which have their location, be it one prepared by the always been revealed in Europe or Asia. I am Community is to enable sa Holy Prophet ; so it people to shun the worldly support of Islam. If you sent to the world with can testify to the evils, attain righteousness read the reports of this divine intent.” (19) truthfulness and lofty and lead an angelic Christian clerics, you will status of the Holy life.”(11) learn about their adverse Quran and the Holy activities and the countless sa “The intent behind creation Prophet .” (15) copies of antagonistic of this Community is that literature that has been righteousness permeates published against Islam. through every organ, Under these circumstances tongue, ears and eyes. The it was imperative that Islam righteousness should should have been exalted; radiate internally as well as hence my divine advent at externally.” (12) this time.” (17)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 88 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

APPENDIX C – desires

ORGANIZATION OFInstitutions and JAMA’AT AHMADIYYA Various Schemes e-Mushawarat is a meeting whenever he whenever meeting once a year, however, however, once a year,

Khalifatul Masih can call a Majalis-e-Shura or Majalis- consultative body. It meets Majalis-e-Mushawarat

(INSERT PDF) Majalis-e-Mushawarat Jama’at Auxiliaries of the Auxiliaries of Other Projects established in the Jehan Scheme Jehan etc. .g., Dar ul e .g., Jama’at Institutions and Foundation, Nusrat Various Schemes Qadha, Fazal-e-Umar Atfal Lajna and Khuddam and Nasirat, Ansar, Ansar, Nasirat, the Jama’at

Auxiliaries of Auxiliaries of US,UK, Canada) Canada) US,UK, Foreign Missions- Local Jammat Local (Chapter) Amir of Country (e.g., atba of Country

Local Chapter Local Jama’at in Jama’at that country The Amir may, with The Amir may, the Leads the activities of members of Jama’at reside members of Jama’at Foreign Missions/ Amir at leastChanda paying three approval of Khalifatul Masih, establish a local or Muqammi Jama’at in Jama’at any location ,where

Missions Vakalaat Khalifatul Masih Vakalat-i-Ulya Tehrik-e-Jadid Vakalat-i- Tabshir Vakalat-i- (Dept.) of Foreign for ra Tehrik-e-Jadid Foreign Missions) – ORGANIZATION OF JAMA’AT AHMADIYYA

Launched in 1934 by India and Bangladesh Khalifatul Masih II Pak Subcontinent (India, Islam and Ahamdiyyat in Pakistan and Bangladesh) delivering the message of delivering the message Pakistan for Tabligh except countries outside the Indo- Vakalat-i- Tabshir (Dept. of Tabshir (Dept. Vakalat-i- Ahmadiyya Missions outside Nazamaat Waqf-e-Jadid ra The Supreme Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Pakistan the rural “Welcome to initiated by Scheme was population of and Tarbiyyat in Waqf-e-Jadid in 1957 for Tabligh Khalifatul Masih II APPENDIX C on as

Nazaraat to streamline ra Ahmadiyya Nazaraat Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyyat- The True Islam” by Dr . Karimullah For additional information see, Zirvi, available at www.alislam.org/books/ Ahmadiyya Established by January 1, 1905 January 1, Common Affairs) Sadr Anjuman Various Departments the work e.g, Nazarat the work e.g, Umoor Aama (Dept. of Promised Messiah Masih II were setup by Khalifatul setup were

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 89 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

APPENDIX D – PROMISED MESSIAHas REFERENCES as ABOUT THE DEATH OF JESUS

We have been studying Surah Al-Imran, which sheds light on the subject of death, emphasizing the point that prophets are normal human beings and die a natural death. It is important that we all understand this subject as the majority of Muslims and Christians, who are waiting for the second coming of the Messiah, strongly believe that Jesusas ascended to heaven and will come back as a special being and not as a normal human being.

The Promised Messiahas did a great deal of research on the death of Jesusas and laid great emphasis and proof from the Holy Qur’an, Hadith and the Bible that Jesusas died a natural death like all other human beings and did not die on the cross. He was alive when taken down from the cross and was saved from the accursed death.

A brief sample of the Promised Messiahas’s references and explanation of the subject is presented here and more information will be posted on the Lajna website under Taleem Department for further research and use for module of Quarter 4.

1. The Holy Qur’an Interpretation a) 'O Jesus, I will cause thee to die a natural death and will exalt thee to myself, and will clear thee from the charges of those who disbelieve, and will place those who follow thee above who disbelieve, until the Day of Resurrection.’ (Al-'Imran 3:56). In this Verse, 'I shall cause thee to die' precedes 'I shall exalt thee', which shows that death occurred before exaltation. A further proof is that Allah the Glorious has said: after thy death I shall place those who follow thee above those who disbelieve (i.e., the Jews), until the Day of Judgment.” (Azala-e-oham, Rūhānī Khazā’in, Vol. 3, pp. 330-332). b) Addressing Muslims who do not believe in the natural death of Jesusas, the Promised Messiahas pointed out “…first of all, they are going against the Holy Qur’an and supporting the Christians. They present the Holy Qur’an stating that Jesusas was raised to heaven but the Holy Qur’an strongly proves his death. ‘And I was a witness over them as long as I remained among them, but since Thou didst cause me to die, Thou hast been Watcher over them, and Thou art Witness over all things.’ (Al Ma’idah 5:118). This verse shows that he had died before Christians had gone astray…. Remember without the death of Jesus you cannot argue against the Christian belief of salvation. What is the use of belief in this life against the teaching of the Qur’an. Let him die so this religion (Islam) can live” (Kishtee Noh, (16-17) Rūhānī Khazā’in Vol. 19). c) And Muhammad is but a Messenger. Verily, all Messengers have passed away before him. (3:145). This verse clearly defines that every prophet faced death that could be natural or imposed and none of the prophets of the past were saved from death. If this verse is construed to mean that some prophets died before the advent of the Holy Prophetsaw and some were still living, then it would not support the reasoning of Hazrat Abu Bakrra as it would not be an authority for the death of previous messengers. Yet none of the companions of the Holy Prophetsaw, who were all present on the occasion, took exception to the reasoning of Hazrat Abu Bakrra, which shows that it was supported by the consensus of the companions, which is held as binding and can never err. (Essence of Islam, Vol 3. p. 111, (Tirqaqu-ul-qulub, Rūhānī Khazā’in. Vol. 15 p. 461-462)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 90 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

2. Bible a) "But after I'm risen again, I will go before you into Galilee (Matthew 26:32)...... ” “The verse I have quoted shows that Jesusas, after coming out of the Sepulchre, went to Galilee. It is written in the Gospel of Mark that after coming out of the Sepulchre, Jesusas was seen on the road of Galilee, and in due coarse he met the eleven disciples who were at their meal, he showed them his hands and feet which bore wounds; they thought that he was perhaps a Spirit. Then he said to them it is myself; touch me and see for a spirit has no flesh and bones as I have, Then he took a piece of broiled fish, and of an honeycomb and ate it before them. (Mark 16:14 And Luke 24:39-42).” These verses show that it is certain that Jesusas never went to heaven; rather, coming out of the tomb, he went to Galilee; -- like an ordinary man, in normal clothes, with a human body. If he had been resurrected after death, how was it that this body of spirit could still have borne the wounds inflicted upon him on the Cross? What need had he to eat? And if he required food then, he must be in need of food even now. (Jesus in India, p. 21- 24)

Matthew (chapter 12, verse 40) says that just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the fish, so the Son of Man shall be three days and three nights in the bowels of the earth. Now it is clear that Jonahas did not die in the belly of the fish; the utmost that happened was that he was in a swoon or a fit of fainting. The holy books of God bear witness that Jonahas, by the grace of God, remained alive in the belly of the fish, and came out alive; and his people ultimately accepted him. If then Jesus (on whom be peace) had died in the belly of the 'fish', what resemblance could there be between a dead man and the one who was alive, and how could a living one be compared with one dead? (Jesus in India, p. 17)

3. Ahadith

Reliable reports in the Hadith show that the Holy Prophetsaw said that Jesusas was 125 years of age. All of the sects of Islam believe that Jesusas had two unique things about him -- things which are not to be found in any other prophet, namely: (1) he lived to a full old age, i.e., to 125 years; (2) he travelled in many parts of the world and was therefore called the 'travelling prophet'. It is evident that if he had been raised to the skies when he was only 33 years old the report of '125 years' could not have been true, nor could he have travelled so much while he was only thirty-three. Not only are these reports found in the reliable Books of Hadith, they have been so well-known among all Muslim sects that it is difficult to think of anything which has been more widely known among them.

Kanz-ul-Ummal (Volume 2), which is a comprehensive Book of Hadith, has on page 34 a Hadith from Abu Hurairara: God directed Jesus (on whom be peace) '0 Jesus! Move from one place to another' -- go from one country to another lest thou shouldst be recognized and persecuted.

Again, in the same book, there is a report from Abdullah bin Umar: The Holy Prophetsaw declared that the most favored in the sight of God are the poor. Asked, what was meant by the poor? Were they the people who, like Jesusas the Messiah, fled from their country with their faith? [www.alislam.org from the book Jesus in India]

***Special Acknowledgments***  Appendix C (Organization of Jama’at Ahmadiyya) Prepared by Samina Arain based on Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, the True Islam & Appendix D (Promised Messiahas References about the Death of Jesusas) Prepared by Samina Arain  Holy Qur’an Portions Prepared by Saira Ijaz based on www.alislam.org Lajna Ima’illah-USA 91 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

APPENDIX E – SALAT WITH SPLIT WORD MEANINGS/TRANSLATION

Niyyah

wal’ ardha fataras–samaawaati lil’ladhi wajhi’ya Wajjah’tu towards Him my full and the earth created the heavens (who) attention I have turned

l’mushrikeen min anaa wwamaa Hanifan who associate partners among being ever inclined with Allah those I am and not to Him Wajjah’tu wajhi’ya lil’ladhifataras –samaawaati wal’ ardha hanifanwwamaa anaa minl’mushrikeen I have turned my full attention towards Him, Who has created the heavens and the earth, being ever inclined (towards Him), and I am not among those who associate partners with Allah.

Thana

-smuka watabaaraka- wabihamdika Allaahum’ma Subhaa’naka is Thy name and blessed and with all Praise O Allah Holy Art Thou

Ghairuka ilaa’ha walaa Jad’duka wata'alaa except Thee worthy of worship and there is none is Thy State and exalted Subhaa’nakaAllaa hum’mawabihamdika watabaaraka-smuka wata'alaajad’duka walaaIlaa’haghairuka Holy art Thou, O Allah, and all praise is Thine; blessed is Thy name and exalted is Thy state and there is none worthy of worship except Thee alone.

Ta'awwudh

Rajeem minashshaitaanir Billaahi A'oodhu the accursed from Satan with Allah I seek refuge A'oodhubillaahi minashshaitaa nirrajeem I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the accursed.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 92 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Surah Al-Fatihah

Raheem Rahmaanir Bismillaahir the Merciful the Gracious In the name of Allah Bismillaa hirRahmaanir Raheem In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

'aalameen Rab’bil Lillaahi Al hamdu of all the worlds Lord belongs to Allah All praise Al hamdu lillaahi rab’bil'aalameen All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds.

Deen Yaumi’d Maaliki -Ra heem ar-Rahmaanir of Judgment Day Master of the Merciful the Gracious Maalikiyaumi’ddeen Ar-Rahmaanir-Ra heem Master of the Day of Judgment. The Gracious, the Merciful.

nasta'een iy’yaaka wa na 'budu Iy’yaka do we beseech for help Thee (alone) and do we worship Thee (alone) Iy’yakana 'buduwaiy’yaakanasta'een Thee alone do we worship, and Thee alone do we implore for help.

al-mustaqeem siraat Ih’dinaa’s right (that is) the path Guide us in Ih’dinaa’ssiraat al-mustaqeem Guide us in the right path.

'alaihim an 'amta alla’dheena Siraat upon whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings of those the path Siraatalla’dheena an 'amta'alaihim The path of those upon whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 93 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

dhua’alleen wa la 'alaihim ilmagh’doobi Ghair and nor upon have incurred Thy have gone astray (of those) whom displeasure not of (those) ghairilmagh’doobi'alaihimwa la dhua’ alleen Not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray.

Tilawat of the Holy Qur’an After Surah Al-Fatihah (Surah Al-Ikhlas)

Ahad -Allaahu huwa Qul -Raheem Rahmaanir Bismillaahir In the name of the one Allah He is Say the Merciful the Gracious Allah Qul Hu wallaahu Ahad BismillaahirRahmaanir Raheem Say, He is Allah, the One. In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.

Walamyoolad Lamyalid us-Samad Allaahu The Independent and nor is He begotten He begets not Besought of all Allah Allaahu us-Samad Lam yalid walamyoolad Allah, the Independent and Besought by all. He begets not, nor is He begotten.

kufuwan 'ahad. walamyakullahu like unto Him and there is none Walamyakullahu kufuwan 'ahad. And there is none like unto Him.

Rukoo

Akbar Allaahu al 'Azheem Rabbiyal Subhaana Great Allah is the most Great is my Lord Holy Allaahu Akbar SubhaanaRabbiyal Al 'Azheem Allah is the Greatest. Holy is my Lord, the Most Great.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 94 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Tasmee

hamidah liman 'Allaahu Sami

praises Him him who Allah Hears Sami'Allaahu limanhamidah

Allah hears him, who praises Him.

Fih mubaarakan tayyiban kathiran hamdan hamd walakal Rabbanaa (that is) and full of blessings pure abundant the praise the praise Thine is Our Lord Rabbanaa walakalhamd hamdankathiran tayyiban mubaarakan fih O our Lord, and Thine is the Praise. The Praise which is abundant, pure and full of blessings.

Sajdah

Yal 'a'laa Rabbi Subhaana the Most High my Lord Holy is Subhaana Rabbi yal 'a'laa Holy is my Lord, the Most High.

Prayers between Sajdah رَ بَ

wahdinee warhamnee ghfir-lee Rabi

and guide me and have mercy on me forgive me Oh Allah

warfa’nee warzuqnee wajburnee wa 'aafinee and make good my and grant me and raise me up (in status) and provide for me shortcomings security Rabigh-fir-lee warhamnee wahdinee wa 'aafinee wajburnee warzuqnee warfa’nee O Allah, forgive me, and have mercy on me, and guide me, and grant me security, and make good for me my shortcoming, and provide for me, and raise me up. Lajna Ima’illah-USA 95 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

At-Tashah-hud

wat-tayyibaat was-salawaatu Lillaahi Attahiyyaatu and all financial and all the sacrifices physical worship is due to Allah All verbal worship

nabbeeyyu ayyuhaan- 'alaika Assalaamu Prophet Oh upon Thee Peace be

assalaamu Wabarakaatuh Allaahi warahmatu- Peace and His blessings of Allah and the mercy

is- saaliheen Ibaadillaahi- wa 'alaa 'alainaa the righteous servants of Allah and on be on us Attahiyyaatu lillaahi was-salawaatu wat-tayyibaat assalaamu'alaika ayyuhaan- nabbeeyyuwarahmatu- allaahi wabarakaatuh assalaamu'alainaa wa 'alaaIbaadillaahi- Is- saaliheen All verbal and physical acts of worship and financial sacrifices are due to Allah. Peace be on you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Peace be on us and on the righteous servants of Allah.

wa ash-hadu il'llallahu ilaaha al’laa Ash-hadu and I bear witness except Allah worthy of worship that there is none I bear witness

waRasuluh 'abduhu Muham’madan an’naa and His messenger His servant Muhammadsaw is that Ash-hadu al’laailaaha il'llallahu wa ash-haduan’naa Muham’madan'abduhu warasuluh I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and His messenger.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 96 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Durood

waa 'alaa Muhammadin 'alaa sal’li Allaahumma and upon Muhammadsaw upon bless Oh Allah

'alaa sal’laita kamaa Muhammadin aa’li Upon Thou didst bless as Muhammadsaw the People of

Majeed Hameedum in’naka Ibraaheema aa’li waa 'ala Ibraaheema the the Praise Thou art the Exalted worthy indeed Abrahamas people of and upon Abrahamas Allaahummasal’li'alaa Muhammadin waa 'alaaaa’li Muhammadin kamaasal’laita'alaa Ibraaheema waa 'ala a’liIbraaheema in’naka Hameedum Majeed Bless, O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad, as Thou didst bless Abraham and the people of Abraham. Thou art indeed the Praiseworthy, the Exalted.

‘alaa baarik Allaahum’ma upon prosper Oh Allah

Kamaa Muhammadin aa’li wwa 'alaa Muhammadin the people As Muhammadsaw of and upon Muhammadsaw

aa’li wwa'alaa Ibraaheema 'alaa baarak’ta the people of and upon Abrahamas upon Thou didst prosper

Majeed Hameedum in’naka Ibraaheema the Exalted the Praiseworthy Thou art indeed Abrahamas Allaahum’ma baarik‘alaa Muhammadin wwa 'alaa aa’li Muhammadin kamaabaarak’ta 'alaa Ibraaheema wwa'alaa aa’li Ibraaheema in’naka Hameedum Majeed Prosper, O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad as Thou didst prosper Abraham and the people of Abraham. Thou art indeed Praiseworthy, the Exalted.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 97 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Concluding Prayers from the Holy Qur’an

Wwa hasanatan fid’dunyaa aa’tinaa Rab’banaa And good in this world grant us Our Lord

adhaban’naar Wwaqinaa hasanatan filaakhirati from the torment of Fire and shield us good in the hereafter Rab’banaa aa’tinaa fid’dunyaa hasanatanw wa fil aakhirati hasanatanw waqinaa ’adhaban’naar Our Lord, bestow on us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and shield us from the torment of the Fire.

dhur-riy’yati wamin salaati muqimas- j 'alnee Rab’bi my children too and observing constant in make me My Lord prayer

na’ ghfir lee Rab’banaa du 'aa wataqab’bal Rab’banaa forgive me Our Lord Prayer accept my Our Lord

ul ‘hisaab Yaqumu yauma lil-mu'mineena wa waliwaliday’ya Reckoning will take place the day the believers and and my parents Rab’bi j 'alnee muqimas-salaati wamindhur-riy’yati rab’banaawataqab’bal du 'aa Rab’banaana’ ghfir lee waliwaliday’ya walil-mu'mineena yaumayaqumul ‘hisaab My Lord, make me observe Prayer and my children, too. Our Lord, bestow thy Grace on me and accept my Prayer. Our Lord grant forgiveness to me and to my parents and to the believers on the Day of the Reckoning.

Salaam

Allah warahmatu ‘alaikum As’salamu Allah and mercy of be upon you Peace As’salamu‘alaikumwarahmatu Allah Peace be on you and the Mercy of Allah.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 98 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

Du'aQunut

wanu’minubika wanastaghfiruka nasta‘ eenuka in’naa Allahum’ma and we believe in Thee and we ask Thy beseech Thy we O Allah forgiveness help

-khaira ‘alaikal- wanuthnee ‘alaika wanatawakkalu in the best manner Thee and we praise Thee and we trust in

ma(n)y yafjuruka wanatruku wanakhla‘u walaanakfuruka wanashkuruka Who disobeys you and forsake and we cast and we are not and we thank him off ungrateful Thee

nusal’lee walaka na‘budu iy’yaaka Allaahum’ma do we pray and to Thee alone do we serve Thee alone O Allah

Wanarjoo wanahfidu nas‘aa wailaika wanasjudu and we hope for and present we rush And towards Thee and we prostrate ourselves ourselves

‘adhabaka in’na ‘adhabaka wanakhshaa Rahmataka Thy chastisement for surely Thy chastisement and we fear Thy mercy

Mulhiq bil-kuffari Overtakes the disbelievers Allahum’ma in’naa nasta‘ eenuka wanastaghfiruka wanu’minubika wanatawakkalu ‘alaika wanuthnee‘alaikal-khaira wa nashkuruka walaa nakfuruka wa nakhla‘u wa natrukuma(n)y yafjuruka Allaahum’ma iy’yaaka na‘budu walaka nusal’lee wa nasjudu wa ilaikanas‘aa wanahfidu wanarjoo rahmataka wa nakhshaa‘adhabaka In’na‘adhabaka bil- kuffari mulhiq O Allah! We beseech Thy help and ask Thy forgiveness and believe in Thee and trust in Thee and praise Thee in the best manner; and we thank Thee and we are not ungrateful to Thee, and we cast off and forsake him who disobeys Thee. O Allah! Thee alone do we serve and to Thee alone do we pray and we prostrate ourselves; and we rush to Thee and present ourselves, and we hope for Thy mercy and we fear Thy chastisement, for surely Thy chastisement overtakes the disbelievers.

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 99 Taleem Appendices Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

References & Sources to Complete Workbook:

THE HOLY QUR’AN (Arabic Text with English Translation & Short Commentary) edited by Malik Ghulam Farid, published under the auspices of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (RA), Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 2002.

The Holy Qur’an with English Translation (Five-Volume Commentary), Published under the auspices of Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad (RA), Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 1988.

Basics of Religious Education, Third Edition (Revised), Compiled by Sheikh Abdul Hadi, Published by Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Canada, Islam International Publications Ltd., Islamabad, Surrey, UK, 1997.

Meanings of the Difficult Words of The Holy Qur’an (Urdu & English), Compiled by Bashir Ahmad Qamar, English Translation: Tahir Mahmood Ahmad, Islam International Publications Ltd. Bath Press, UK, 2006. www.alislam.org

Treasure House of Prayers, First Edition, Compiled by Hafiz Muzaffer Ahmad, Translated by Bushra Ishrat Sheikh, Published by Zafar & Sons, Qadian, Printwell, Amritsar, India, 2006.

APPENDIX B REFERENCES 1) (Malfūzāt, Vol.2,p. 213) 2) (Malfūzāt, Vol.3, p.5) 3) (Malfūzāt, Vol.4, p. 402) 4) (Malfūzāt, Vol. 3, p. 8) 5) (Malfūzāt, Vol.3, p.23) 6) (Malfūzāt, Vol. 4, p. 467) 7) (Malfūzāt, Vol.2, p.113) 8) (Malfūzāt, Vol. 3, p.16) 9) (Malfūzāt, Vol.4, p. 617) 10) (Malfūzāt, Vol.3, p.83) 11) (Malfūzāt, Vol.4, p.473) 12) (Malfūzāt, Vol. 4, p.99) 13) (Malfūzāt, Vol.1, p.206) 14) (Malfūzāt, Vol.2, p.130) 15) (Malfūzāt, Vol.1, p.237) 16) (Lecture Ludhiana, Rūhānī Khazā’in, Vol. 20, p.279) 17) (Lecture Ludhiana, Rūhānī Khazā’in, Vol.20, p.293) 18) (Malfūzāt, Vol.5, p.631) 19) (The Will, p.8-9)

Lajna Ima’illah-USA 100 Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 – 2017

TARBIYAT PROGRAM 2015 – 2017

O Lord! Accept this from us; for you are All Hearing, All Knowing

CONDITIONS OF BAI'AT

The Ark of the Messiah

Lajna Ima'illah USA 2 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 - 2017

CONTENTS

TARBIYAT PROGRAM 2015-2017

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING WORKBOOK

REFERENCES AND READING MATERIAL

TARBIYAT WORKBOOK QUARTERS:

Quarter 1: Conditions of Bai'at # 1 and 3 - Topics: Unity of Allah, Salat, Prayers

Quarter 2: Condition of Bai'at # 4 - Topics: Treatment of Others, Backbiting, Marital Harmony

Quarter 3: Condition of Bai'at # 2 - Topics: Truthfulness, Societal ills, Self-reformation

Quarter 4: Condition of Bai'at # 5 - Topics: Love of Allah, Taqwa, Keeping an eye on the Hereafter

Quarter 5: Condition of Bai'at # 6 -Topics: Un-Islamic customs, Commands of the Holy Qur'an, Importance of the Holy Qur'an

Quarter 6: Conditions of Bai'at # 7 and 8 - Topics: Pride/Arrogance, Purdah and Modesty, Giving precedence to faith

Quarter 7: Condition of Bai'at # 9 - Topics: Service to others, Service to children, Service to parents

Quarter 8: Condition of Bai'at # 10 - Topics: Obedience, Strengthening our practice, Reformation through the model of the Holy Prophet (saw)

ETIQUETTES AND GUIDELINES:

Etiquette of Salat

Guidelines for Purdah and Modesty

Etiquette for Rishta Na’ata (spouse selection process)

Guidelines for Marriage in Islām

Etiquette of Wedding Celebrations

Guidelines for Tarbiyat of Children

Lajna Ima'illah USA 3 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 - 2017

TARBIYAT PROGRAM 2015-2017

Allah will say, ‘This is a day when only the truthful shall profit by their truthfulness. For them are Gardens beneath which streams flow; therein shall they abide forever. Allah is well pleased with them, and they are well pleased with Him; that indeed is the great triumph.’ 5:120

Prayer for Tarbiyat: Our Lord, make us submissive to Thee and make of our offspring a people submissive to Thee. And show us our ways of worship, and turn to us with mercy; for Thou art Oft-Returning with compassion and Merciful. [2:129]

Tarbiyat Program Theme and Goal: Conditions of Bai'at – The Ark of the Messiah

In 1888, the Promised Messiah (as) received revelations in both Arabic and Urdu in which he was directed to construct an ark because the earth was covered in a flood of error. The purpose of this ark would be to save all those who boarded it from drowning in the flood. Thus, under divine guidance, the Promised Messiah (as) established the ten conditions of Bai'at as the requirement of entering into a covenant with him and hence constructed the ark.

As members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at, we have all taken the Bai’at on the hand of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih to uphold and practice the ten conditions of Bai'at in our daily lives. However, in his message to the USA Jama’at on the occasion of Jalsa Salana 2014, Huzoor (atba) expressed his concern that we need to ponder over our spiritual condition and reflect on whether our actions match the pledge that we claim to affirm. Therefore the theme of this program is to self-reflect on whether we are fulfilling our Bai’at and to reform ourselves so that our actions match our words.

Tarbiyat Program Focus: To address the following self-reflection questions asked of us by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (atba):

 Do we keep an eye on the Hereafter as regards our worldly dealings? Do we give precedence to faith over worldly matters? Are we fulfilling our pledge of Bai’at?  Do we observe five daily Prayers and remember God with humility?  Have we established the highest level of truthfulness where there is not even a hint of falsehood and deception?  Do we avoid every ill and every bad practice; shun usurping the rights of others; avoid bad influences of associates/friends; avoid slandering and backbiting; take care of neighbors?  Do we respect and serve our parents and listen to everything good they say to us?  Are husbands and wives fulfilling their responsibilities to each other and to their families?  Do we forgive those who wrong us and remove malice and rancor from our hearts?

Our Personal Tarbiyat Goals:

 Perform Salat five times daily on time, in congregation as much as possible.  Recite Holy Qur'an daily with translation.  Increase daily recitation of Darood on Holy Prophet (saw).

Lajna Ima'illah USA 4 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 - 2017

 Listen to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s sermons regularly.  Offer 2 nawafil daily for all Ahmadis facing persecution.  Observe purdah and maintain hayaa on all occasions.  Reflect on and comply with conditions of Bai’at in daily life and strive towards doing Wasiyat.  Increase attendance at Lajna meetings.

TARBIYAT PROGRAM SYLLABUS

A. Listen to current Friday sermon every week and participate in a Friday sermon activity every month. B. Tarbiyat Workbook: Conditions of Bai’at; associated Tarbiyat topics and self-reflection questions.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING TARBIYAT WORKBOOK

 Each quarter of the workbook contains assigned material on tarbiyat topics which are related to the condition/conditions of Bai'at covered in the quarter and the questions asked by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba).  The material should be read thoughtfully and workshops, panel discussions or other interactive means of members’ participation should be used to answer the related questions.  Each quarter is divided into 3 sections.  Each section covers a tarbiyat topic, a section activity and personal tarbiyat exercises.  Each quarter contains one compulsory section activity, which should be done in the Lajna general meeting. All majalis should answer the compulsory section activity for each quarter (see below).  Answer at least one more question each quarter.  Include Lajna ages 15-25, by assigning some part of the activity to them, e.g. research the given topic.  Reference and reading materials are given for supplementary information.  Contact National Tarbiyat Secretary for further guidance if necessary.

Compulsory Section activities for each Quarter:

Quarter 1 – Section II activity; Quarter 2 – Section II activity; Quarter 3 – Section I activity

Quarter 4 – Section III activity; Quarter 5 – Section I activity; Quarter 6 – Section II activity

Quarter 7 – Section II activity; Quarter 8 – Section II activity

Lajna Ima'illah USA 5 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 - 2017

REFERENCES AND READING MATERIAL

 Conditions of Bai'at and Responsibilities of an Ahmadi by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba)  Conditions of Bai'at - Lajna Imaillah USA  Daughters of Eve - Lajna Imaillah USA  Way of the Seekers by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra)  Hadhrat Amman Jan (ra) by Munavara Ghauri  Islam on Marital Rights by Sheikh Mubarak Ahmad  The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as)  The Essence of Islam, vols. 1 & 2 by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (as)  Introduction to the study of the Holy Qur'an by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra)  Life of Muhammad by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra)  The Wisdom of the Holy Prophet (saw) by Chaudhry Zafrullah Khan  Invitation to Aḥmadiyyat by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II (ra)

Friday Sermons Archive www.alislam.org

Presentations on Marriage on MTA www.alislam.org/v/k-Marriage.html www.alislam.org/library/articles/Importance-of-Obedience

Lajna Ima'illah USA 6 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook 2015 - 2017

QUARTER 1 APRIL - MAY - JUNE 2015 All Majalis to complete Section II Activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

1st and 3rd CONDITIONS OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Unity of Allah, Shirk, Salat, Prayers Goal: To increase our connection with Allah Ta'ala Self-reflection questions: Do we observe five daily Prayers? Do we always engage in prayer and remember God with humility?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT #1: That he/she shall abstain from Shirk (association of any partner with God) right up to the day of his/her death.

CONDITION OF BAI'AT #3: That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Holy Prophet (saw) and that he/she shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the Tahajjud and invoking Durud on the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw). That he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him.

SECTION I UNITY OF GOD, SHIRK (associating partners with God)

THE PROMISED MESSIAH (AS) SAYS: Tauhid (Unity of God) does not simply mean that you say la ilaha illAllah (there is no God but Allah) with your tongue but then hide hundreds of idols in your heart. Anyone who gives reverence to his own plans, mischief or clever designs as he should revere God, or depends upon another person as one should depend upon God alone, or reveres his own ego as he should revere God alone; in all such conditions he is an idol- worshipper in the sight of Allah. Idols are not merely those that are made of gold, silver, copper or stones. Rather, everything, every statement, or every deed, which is revered in a manner that befits Almighty Allah alone, is an idol in the sight of Allah….

Remember that the true Unity of God, which God requires us to affirm and upon which salvation depends, is to believe that God in His Being is free from every associate; whether it be an idol or a human being, or the sun or moon, or one’s own self or plan, or one’s cunning or deceit. Tauhid is also to conceive of no one as possessing power in opposition to Him, nor to accept anyone as Sustainer, nor to hold anyone as Bestower of honor or disgrace, nor to consider anyone as Helper or Supporter; and it is also to confine one’s love, worship, humility, hopes and fear to Him alone.

Thus no tauhid can be complete without the following three types of acceptance:

 First is belief in the Unity of His Being, i.e. to conceive that the whole universe as non- existent in contrast with Him and to consider it mortal and lacking reality.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 7 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

 Second is belief in the Unity of His Attributes i.e. that Rabbubiyyat (Omnipotence) and Uluhiyyat (Divinity) are confined to His Being and that all other factors, which may appear as sustainers or benefactors are only a part of the system set up by His Hand.  Third is belief in the Unity of love, sincerity and devotion—that is, not to consider anyone as an associate of God in the matter of love and worship and to be entirely lost in Him. (Siraj- ud-Din ‘Isa’i ke Char Swalon ka Jawab, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 12, pp. 349–350)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 07/26/2013 - Follow the Commandments of the Holy Quran

The first commandment forbids associating anyone with God. Which sensible person would associate partners with God Who has created us and Who nurtures our mental, physical and spiritual capacities and gives us all the blessings? Yet, people do not understand and associate partners with God. They do not try to understand the significance of Shirk in depth. Each age and era has had people who have had this tendency and this is why the first message of Prophets of God is teaching against Shirk; indeed Shirk is an unforgivable sin.

The Promised Messiah (as) said: Every sin is forgivable but associating partners with God is an unforgivable sin.

‘…Surely, associating partners with God is a grievous wrong.’ (31:14) and ‘Surely Allah will not forgive that any partner be associated with Him…’(4:49)

Here, Shirk does not simply mean worshipping idols made of stone. In fact it is also Shirk to venerate worldly means and give importance to worldly idols. This indeed is Shirk. The example of sinning is like smoking hookah, giving it up is not that difficult and inconvenient while the example of Shirk is like taking opium, which is an impossible habit to break.’ (Translated from Malfoozat, Vol. 6 pp 18 – 19)

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘Shirk is three-fold. The first kind is general idol-worship and worship of trees. This is a broad, common Shirk. The second kind of Shirk is when too much reliance is placed on ways and means; that is, saying ‘if such and such did not happen, I would have died’, this is Shirk. The third kind of Shirk is whereby one considers oneself to be something compared to God. No one gets embroiled in the broad kind of Shirk in this age of enlightenment; however, in this time of material advancement, the Shirk of ways and means has increased a lot.’ (Translated from Tafseer of Holy Qur’an, Vol. III p. 657)

The Promised Messiah (as) defined worship as: ‘O people, worship the God Who has created you, that is, know that all your tasks come to pass through Him and rely on Him.’

‘O people, worship the God Who has created you…He alone is worthy of worship and He is Living and you should love Him alone. Loyalty is in keeping a special connection with God and everything else should be considered naught in comparison. A person who holds his children or parents so dear that he remains concerned about them all the time also does a kind of idol worship. Idol worship does not only mean to worship idols like Hindus, too much love is also a kind of worship.’

Lajna Ima'illah USA 8 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

‘O people worship the God who is One and without any partner, who created you and your forefathers. You should fear the Powerful God Who made the earth a place to rest for you and the sky a cover, who sent down water from the sky to create varied forms of sustenance for you from fruits. Do not knowingly associate those very things equal to Him which have been created for you.’ (Translated from Tafseer of the Holy Qur’an, Vol. pp. 454 – 455)

Further explaining the reality of worship, the Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘The real reason for the creation of mankind is worship. Just as it is stated elsewhere: ‘And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.’ (51:57). True worship is when man removes all hardness and crookedness and makes the terrain of his heart as clear as a farmer clears his field…as collyrium/ kohl is ground extremely finely so that it can be put in eyes. Similarly, this state of worship is when the terrain of heart is free of grit, pebbles and unevenness and is so clean that it embodies pure soul. If a mirror is cleaned in this manner one can see one’s face in it and if soil is thus treated, all kinds of fruits grow in it. Therefore, if man, who has been created to worship God, cleans his heart and does not let any grit, pebbles or unevenness remain in it, God will be seen in it. I say again that God’s love will grow and flourish therein bearing sweet and wholesome fruits which will be eternal.’

The Promised Messiah (as) also said that it is only possible to stand before God in a special state of humility when there is an exceptional connection with Him. And the love has to be mutual, between the Creator and man. Love of God should be so intense and so true that it should burn away human frailties, just like lightening burns away anything that it strikes, and spirituality should take over.

This is the reason for our creation and this is the reason for experiencing Ramadan and this is the standard of worship that the Promised Messiah (as has taught us. Once this standard is attained, man is free from all kinds of Shirk.

SECTION I ACTIVITY

The Promised Messiah (as) said ‘in this time of material advancement, the Shirk of ways and means has increased a lot.’

What are the ‘ways and means’ of these times, which may lead us into Shirk? Discuss and identify the hidden idols that we need to confront in daily life, especially those in the areas of raising children, marital harmony and achieving educational and career goals.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Turn off all electronic devices (smart phone, computer etc.) for one day a week.  Take your family to a park, hiking, or to a place of natural beauty and marvel over Allah’s creation.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 9 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

SECTION II SALAT/PRAYER

THE PROMISED MESSIAH (AS) SAYS: ‘Prayer is obligatory on every Muslim. It is narrated in hadith that some people accepted Islam and submitted, ‘O Prophet of Allah, please release us from the obligation of Prayer because we are traders. Because we tend to cattle, sometimes we are not sure about the cleanliness of our clothes. Moreover, we do not have the time.’ The Holy Prophet (saw) said, ‘Take heed, if there is no Prayer, there is nothing. Faith without worship is no faith at all.’

What is Prayer? It is to submit your weaknesses before God and to seek their solutions from Him. At times, to stand straight before him in awe of His Grandeur—ready to carry out His commands. At times to prostrate before Him in complete submission. To beg from him all that you need. That is Prayer. To praise Him like a beggar, move His Mercy by narrating His Greatness and Grandeur, and then asking. A ‘faith’ that does not have this [type of Prayer] is no faith at all.

A man is needy at all times to seek Allah’s pleasure and beg for His Grace. Only through His Grace can we accomplish anything. O Allah, grant us the ability to belong entirely to You, to stay firmly upon the path of Your pleasure and thereby earn Your pleasure. Prayer means love of God, fear of God, to always keep Him in mind—and that is what faith is. So anyone who wants to be freed from the obligation of Prayer cannot accomplish anything more than the animals— eating, drinking, and sleeping. This certainly is not faith. This is the way of the disbelievers. The popular saying, ‘the moment of heedlessness is the moment of disbelief’ is undoubtedly true and correct.’ (Al-Hakam, Vol. 7, March 31, 1903, p. 8)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 10/10/2014 - Worship, Anger-Management and Forgiveness

God has made Salat obligatory but has also given much expediency regarding it. For example, if someone cannot offer Salat standing up, they may do so sitting down. If they cannot offer Salat sitting down due to frailty or illness, they may do so lying down. And there is no stipulation as to how should one lay down. When one is travelling or there are any temporary constraints, Salat can be shortened or combined. In short no matter what, no one can say that it is not possible to offer Salat under any circumstances. People whose employment necessitates that their clothes cannot be clean all the time may offer Salat in those clothes. If water is not available tayyammum (dry ablution) may be performed in place of wudhu (ablution). Therefore a sensible person will not make any excuse to miss offering Salat. If one is in one’s senses, then one must offer Salat. Many people make many excuses in this regard and this distances them from faith. Each one of us needs to focus on this matter!

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) said that following his Friday sermon at the inauguration of our mosque in Ireland in which Huzoor had drawn attention to worship of God, he received a letter from a Murrabi Sahib in USA and other letters as well that attendance at mosques has increased after Huzoor’s sermon. It is obvious that earlier the non-attendance was not due to any constraints or unfeasibility and once attention was drawn to the matter it worked. Now the momentum needs to be maintained and for this Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and Lajna need to make

Lajna Ima'illah USA 10 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1 special efforts in instilling the practice of regular observance of Salat in the youngsters. Youth is a time of good health when worship can be offered with its due requisites. In later life one develops ailments, which prevent one from offering worship of God with its due requisites. The Promised Messiah (as) especially drew our attention to the fact that only worship during youth and while in good health can be offered with its due requisites. One should strive to observe the commandments of God, even by imposing them on oneself, let alone avoid them even with all the convenience granted by God in this regard! Indeed one should worship God as thanksgiving for the good health one has! Much effort should be made in this regard as faith cannot be complete without it.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF ADDRESS DELIVERED AT JALSA SALANA USA BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 06/30/2012

You all know that there is a prayer that we make for our children, which is that: May Allah make them a source of joy and comfort for our eyes. For a believer, his children become a delight for his eyes when they adopt righteousness, if they are healthy and affluent, if they are obedient and serve their parents. Thus when a person prays to God to be granted children who are pious, truthful, and a source of comfort for their eyes, then in accordance with the example of the Holy Prophet (saw), he or she should search for the delight of the eyes that can only be acquired by fulfilling the rights of Allah’s worship.

When this happens, then as a result, God Almighty bestows such children who truly prove to be the delight of their parents’ eyes and are a source of happiness to them. Therefore, for the moral training of their children, it is essential that women establish and maintain their prayers to the highest standards. The homes of Ahmadis should be filled with the love and remembrance of Allah at all times.

As I said in my previous two sermons, television programs, the Internet, or family outings should never take priority and so prove to be an obstacle preventing our prayers from being offered in the beautiful manner that is required.

Certainly, it is not just women but also all men who must pay full attention at all times to fulfilling the rights of worship that are due to Allah. If full attention is paid to our prayers, then Allah the Almighty has promised that as a result your children will indeed become the delight of your eyes.

About the importance of prayers, Allah says in the Holy Qur’an, in Surah al-Baqarah:

Watch over Prayers, and particularly the middle Prayer, and stand before Allah submissively. (Ch.2:239)

This verse means that you must pay attention to your prayers and protect them. It especially reminds us to pay attention to the prayers that come during the course of the day when most people are busy with their daily routines. Thus we are reminded that when all worldly desires and interests are left behind and our prayers are safeguarded, then our homes will become filled with Allah’s blessings.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 11 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

We will then come to find that righteousness and goodness will become permanent features in our children. When you achieve such high standards, you will be fulfilling the pledge that you have made to always give precedence to your faith over matters of the world. Allah’s generosity is such that He rewards a person more than his due in return for all of his good deeds. Thus, when you safeguard your prayers because of a desire to follow Allah’s commands and you remind your husband and children to also protect their Salat, then your prayers will actually come to protect you. They will purify you from sins and errors. Indeed, Allah has said in Surah al-‘Ankabut:

…Surely, Prayer restrains one from indecency and manifest evil… (Ch.29:46).

This means that prayer prevents a person from all forms of indecency and undesirable acts. So performing prayers with regularity and in the proper manner allows the prayers themselves to protect us by preventing us from committing indecent or evil acts. This spiritual shield is not only limited to the individual, but in fact, is a means of protecting the entire household. Allah the Almighty becomes a Friend and Helper to those who worship him with full attention and who discharge the rights of worship.

The meaning of discharging or fulfilling the rights of worship is that we should worship Allah at all times including times of happiness, comfort and ease. During times of contentment, we should continue to worship Him and remember Him in the proper way. It should not just be that only during times of trial and difficulty we stand on the prayer mat beseeching Allah’s help, yet when our circumstances improve we forget Him.

When Allah commands haafizoo, then this means that—unlike other religions—worship in Islam, is not one-sided or a one-way process. Thus, where a person protects his prayers, then Allah also safeguards him; and, the manifestation of this protection is witnessed both in this world through Allah’s rewards, and also in the hereafter.

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) on Salat, which includes the following points:

 The objective of Salat and the requirements to achieve that objective  The benefit of Salat for ourselves and our families  What are the consequences of neglecting Salat and why would an Ahmadi be unmindful of Salat?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES:

 Help your children memorize verses of the Holy Quran while you are driving to and from school or other activities.  Celebrate with your child’s favorite treat or dish when your child completes a reading of a chapter or part of the Holy Quran.  Read etiquettes of Salat given in Workbook and discuss with your family.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 12 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

SECTION III PRAYERS

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 05/30/2014

The Promised Messiah (as) wrote: ‘Remember, God Almighty is without any care and unless prayer is made abundantly and with pathos, He does not care. A person whose wife or child is unwell or when someone faces intense grief, he becomes very distressed. Unless prayer is sincere and heart-felt and is made in a state of distress it remains ineffective and pointless. It is essential that prayer is made with an anguished heart for it to be accepted, as it is stated: ‘Or, Who answers the distressed person when he calls upon Him…’(27:63). (Tafseer: The Promised Messiah, Vol. III, p. 574)

We need to focus on prayer and worship of God more than ever and we need to make them with heart-felt pathos and we need to draw God’s mercy. Next Huzoor drew attention to some prayers, which were first exhorted by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih III (rh) at the time of the Jama’at’s centenary and Huzoor also reminded about them later at the time of Khilafat centenary. These prayers should neither be forgotten nor decreased; rather they should be made part of our daily lives. In addition we need to adorn our Salat. These prayers are often cited on MTA but Huzoor (aba) also mentioned them by way of reminding.

 Surah Al Fatihah; it should be recited abundantly.

 Durud (blessings and salutations on the Holy Prophet) should also be recited copiously.

 The Prayer which was revealed to the Promised Messiah (as) and should be recited a lot: ‘Holy is Allah and worthy of all praise, Holy is Allah, the Great. O Allah, bestow Your blessings on Muhammad and on the people of Muhammad.’

 ‘Our Lord, let not our hearts get perverse after Thou hast guided us; and bestow on us mercy from Thyself; surely, Thou alone art the Bestower.’ (3:9)

Hazrat Nawab Begum Sahiba (ra) had a dream after the passing away of the Promised Messiah (as) in which he advised her to say this prayer abundantly. When she related her dream to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I (ra) he said he would never stop reciting this prayer and will recite it abundantly. He said that while the prayer beseeches for strength of faith, it was also a great prayer to stay connected to Khilafat.

 ‘O our Lord, pour forth steadfastness upon us, and make our steps firm, and help us against the disbelieving people.’ (2:251)

 ‘O Allah, we make You a shield against enemies and we take refuge in You from their evils.’ A Hadith relates that when the Holy Prophet (saw) used to sense danger from a body of people, he used to say this prayer.

 Istighfar ‘I beg pardon of Allah, my Lord, from all my sins, and turn to Him.’

Lajna Ima'illah USA 13 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

 Recently Huzoor (aba) exhorted this prayer in light of a dream: ‘O Lord everything is subservient to You. O Lord, protect us, help us and have mercy on us.’

 ‘Our Lord, forgive us our errors and our excesses in our conduct, and make firm our steps and help us against the disbelieving people.’ (3:148)

HOW TO ACHIEVE CONCENTRATION IN PRAYER - The Promised Messiah (as) says [that a person who derives no pleasure from Prayer should beg before Allah]:

Allah the Almighty! Thou knowst how blind and sightless I am, and at the moment I am like the dead. I know that in a little while I shall be called and shall present myself before Thee and no one will be able to stop me. But my heart is blind and unenlightened. Do Thou cause to descend upon it such a flame of light that it may be inspired thereby with Thy love and devotion Do Thou bestow upon me such grace that I shall not be raised up sightless and blind.

When he supplicates in this manner and persists in the supplication, he will see that a time will arrive when something will descend upon him while he is engaged in such a Prayer that will melt his heart. (Malfuzat, new edition, Vol.2, p. 616)

TAHAJJUD - The Promised Messiah (as) says: Our Jama‘at should make it incumbent upon itself to offer tahajjud. Anyone who cannot do more should offer a minimum of two rak‘at because he will get an opportunity to make some supplications. Supplications made at this time have a very special characteristic because they are offered with true pain and eagerness. Until there is a special pain and heartfelt agony, how can one wake up from comfortable sleep? To wake up at this time creates a heartfelt pain, which creates a condition of devotion and distress, which in turn become the means of acceptance of supplication. But someone who is lax in waking up is obviously lacking in pain and anguish. But one who wakes up, obviously there is a pain that is waking him up. (Malfuzat, new edition, Vol. 2, p. 182)

DURUD - The Promised Messiah (as) says: ‘Man is a servant or slave. A slave is one who carries out all commandments of the master. Similarly, if you want to achieve grace through the Holy Prophet (saw) it is essential that you become his slave. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

Say, ‘O My servants who have committed excesses against their own souls!’ (39:54)

Here, slave means an obedient servant and not a creation. To become a slave of the Holy Prophet (saw), it is essential to invoke Allah’s blessings upon him, not to disobey any of his commandments and to carry out all his injunctions.’ (Al-Badr, Vol. 2, No. 14, April 24, 1903, p. 109)

ISTIGHFAR - The Promised Messiah (as) says: Some people have an awareness of sin, others do not. Therefore, Allah the Almighty has made istighfar incumbent for all times, so that one should continue to seek Allah’s protection from all sins—obvious or hidden, known or unknown, whether committed by hand, legs, tongue, nose, or eyes. These days the prayer of Hazrat Adam (as) should especially be recited:

Lajna Ima'illah USA 14 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

…‘Our Lord we have wronged ourselves; and if Thou forgive us not and have not mercy on us, we shall surely be of the lost.’ (7:24)

This prayer has already been accepted. Do not spend your life in heedlessness. Anyone who eschews heedless life will hopefully never be afflicted with any great misfortune because such misfortune does not befall without divine permission. I was revealed the following prayer in this regard: O my Lord, everything is in your service. O My Lord, protect me, and help me, and have mercy on me. (Malfuzat, new edition, Vol. 2. p. 577)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 06/07/2013- Humility: A Pre-Requisite For Patience And Prayers

We should pray to God with utter humility: O God, in Your mercy and grace, come to our help and teach us ways which please You and teach us those ways of worship and patience which please You. It is stated that if you are seeking God’s help for these blessings, then show humility and heighten your level of patience. Lexicons describe ‘Sabr’ [Arabic word for patience] as enduring pain with dignity and without creating clamor, to remain content with the will of God and to remain content with complete gratification. To maintain and uphold one’s loyalty and strength of faith for God under any circumstance, to only remain connected to God and to only rely on Him and to remain steadfast on His teaching. God states that this is the state of patience when adhered to makes one recipient of God’s blessings. God never wastes His sincere people. When a person relies solely and completely on God, God rewards such patience. However, patience does not signify to simply sit back. Rather, the dues of Salat have to be paid and Salat signifies the prescribed Prayer, dua, turning to God and turning to Him in humility and seeking His grace. A person who is free from egotism can pay the dues of such ‘Salat’, one who has no conceit. The Salat of a person who does not have these attributes is not real Salat. God does not care for such a person.

EXCERPT FROM ‘HAZRAT AMMAN JAN (RA)’S LIFE’S PASSION – WORSHIP’ FROM HAZRAT AMMAN JAN BY MUNAVERA GHAURI, (p. 33-42)

 Hazrat Amman Jan's daughter Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begum (ra) recalls how Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) observed her prayers with great enthusiasm, conviction and passion. Not only were her prayers filled with fervent supplications, but also the etiquettes of “Salat” were observed meticulously and with inspirational beauty. Hazrat Amman Jan's daughter never recalls seeing her mother rush her prayers. She continues that Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) not only observed "Tahajjud" prayers regularly but also "Ishraq", apart from the five compulsory daily prayers of a Muslim. Often one could hear her supplications as she exclaimed with such fervor, intensity, pain and restlessness. Interestingly, Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) was also naturally poetic and would sometimes supplicate in a single or rhyming couplet.  When Bashir (the first)’s condition became critical in November 1888, the ill child was eighteen months old. Both Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) and the Promised Messiah (as) had harbored hopes that he may indeed be the “promised son”, whose birth had been revealed to them almost two years earlier. They were both acutely aware of the enemy taunts that would emerge should Bashir pass away. (In view of the fact that the Promised Messiah (as) had had a revelation in February 1886 that he would have a special son, a “musleh”

Lajna Ima'illah USA 15 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

(Reformer). It is hard to conceive a more stressful situation for a mother, the devoted spouse of a prophet and the mother of a spiritual community. Hazrat Amman Jan's character was truly exemplary. Her son's condition was absolutely critical but she still thought not to miss her prayers, when the time arose. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) did her ablutions and performed her prayers with perfect serenity, happy to be fulfilling Allah Almighty's Commandments. She physically dissociated herself from the tense situation. After completing the prayers she enquired how her son was, to be told that the little one had taken his last breath. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) responded "Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun." After this she was silent. There was no wailing or weeping. There were no shrieks or lamentations of regret at the loss of her child, - a true indication that she was indeed one of Allah Almighty's loyal servants.  On one occasion a lady visited Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) with her newborn daughter. She relates that she waited some time until Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) had completed her prayers. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) then enquired of the ladies visiting if they had offered their prayers. The lady with the child excused herself, explaining that her baby had wet herself and that she would go home and offer prayers after changing her. At this point Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) expressed some wise words. She said; "Never omit prayers using your children as an excuse. In this way, your children become a cause of Allah Almighty's wrath, when really they are a reward from Allah Almighty". In this concise manner Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) directed mothers to both appreciate their children but also never to commit "Shirk ", i.e. to associate them with Allah Almighty, by putting their needs before Allah's Commands.

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Thoroughly read and reflect on the material of Quarter 1 and then reflect on the question asked by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba), “Do we always engage in prayer and remember God with humility?”

During the month of Ramadhan, make a sincere and lasting effort to raise the level of your Salat and to offer Tahajjud prayer, Durud and istighfar. Ensure that your children and your loved ones offer every Salat in congregation.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Hold short Darsul Quran or Darsul Hadith sessions with your children once a day after congregational prayers.

O Lord, in You do we put our trust, and to You do we turn repentant and towards You is the final return. (60:5)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 16 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 1

QUARTER 2 JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2015 All Majālis to complete Section II activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

4th CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Treatment of Others, Backbiting, Marital Harmony Goal: To increase awareness and practice of Huququl’Ibaad Self-reflection questions: Are our gatherings/assemblies free from slandering others and from backbiting? Is every husband and every wife paying the dues of each other’s trusts?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 4 - That under the impulse of any passions, he/she shall cause no harm whatsoever to the creatures of Allah in general, and Muslims in particular, neither by his/her tongue nor by his/her hands nor by any other means.

SECTION I TREATMENT OF OTHERS

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) AT JALSA SALANA GERMANY 08/24/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

I now present before you what the Promised Messiah (as) said in this regard and what he expects of the members of the Jama‘at. The Promised Messiah (as) says:

The members of my Jama‘at, wherever they might be, should listen with attention. The purpose of their joining this Movement and establishing the mutual relationship of spiritual preceptor and disciple with me is that they should achieve a high degree of good conduct, good behavior and righteousness. No wrongdoing, mischief, or misconduct should even approach them. They should perform the five daily Prayers regularly, should not utter a falsehood and should not hurt anyone with their speech. They should not be guilty of any vice and should not let even a thought of any mischief, or wrong, or disorderliness, or turmoil pass through their minds. They should shun every type of sin, offence, undesirable action, passion, and unmannerly behavior.

They should become pure-hearted and meek servants of God Almighty, and no poisonous germ should flourish in their beings…. Sympathy with mankind should be their principle and, they should fear God Almighty. They should safeguard their tongues and their hands and their thoughts against every kind of impurity, disorderliness and dishonesty. They should join the five daily Prayer services without fail. They should refrain from every kind of wrong, transgression, dishonesty, bribery, trespass, and partiality. They should not participate in any evil company. If it should be proved that one who frequents their company does not obey God’s commandments… or is not mindful of the rights of people, or is cruel or mischievous, or is ill-behaved, or is seeking to deceive the servants of God Almighty by speaking ill or abusively of them, or is guilty of imposture towards the persons with whom they have entered into a covenant of bai‘at, it should be their duty to repel him and to keep away from such a dangerous one. They should not design harm against the followers of any religion or the members of any tribe or group. Be true well-

Lajna Ima'illah USA 17 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2 wishers of everyone, and take care that no mischievous, vicious, disorderly, or ill-behaved person, should be ever of your company, or should dwell among you; for such a person could at any time be the cause of your stumbling.…

These are matters and conditions that I have been urging from the beginning, and it is the duty of every member of my Jama‘at to act upon them. You should indulge in no impurity, mockery or derision. Walk upon the earth with good hearts, pure tempers, and pure thoughts. Not every evil is worth fighting, so cultivate the habit of forgiveness and overlooking faults, and behave with steadfastness and meekness. Do not attack anyone improperly, and keep your passions under complete control. If you take part in a discussion, or in an exchange of views on a religious subject, express yourself gently and be courteous. If anyone misbehaves towards you, withdraw from such company with a greeting of peace.

If you are persecuted or reviled, be mindful that you should not meet stupidity with stupidity, for otherwise you will be counted in the same category as your opponents. God Almighty desires that you should become a Jama’at that should set an example of goodness and truthfulness for the whole world. Hasten to exclude everyone from your company who sets an example of evil, mischief, provocation and ill-behavior. He who cannot dwell among us in meekness, goodness and piety, using gentle words and comporting himself in ways of good conduct, should depart from us quickly, for God does not desire that such a one should dwell among us. He will die miserably, for he did not adopt the way of goodness. Therefore, be alert, and be truly good- hearted, gentle and righteous. You will be recognized by your regular attendance at Prayer services and your high moral qualities. He who has the seed of evil embedded in him will not be able to conform to this admonition. (Ishtihar (The Announcement), May 29, 1898. Majmu‘ah Ishtiharat, Vol. 3, pp. 46–48)

SECTION I ACTIVITY

In the above excerpt, the Promised Messiah (as) gives approximately 18 directives to his Jama'at so that they may become examples of goodness and truthfulness for the world. List these conditions, reflect on their importance, and examine your own behavior accordingly.

Keep the list in a prominent area where you can read it daily and reflect on whether you are fulfilling the desires of the Promised Messiah (as).

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Count the number of unselfish actions you have done for others during the day and resolve to improve on this the next day.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 18 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

SECTION II BACKBITING AND ANGER

THE KEY OF THE HEART IS WITH GOD

The Promised Messiah (as) says: The heart is the small box of God and its key is with Him. Nobody knows what it contains. That being the case, why should anyone talk of what he thinks is in the heart of another person and thus become a sinner.

There is a Hadith, which tells us that once there would be a great sinner. On the Day of Judgment, God would call him to come near Him and then He would stretch His hand to hide him from the view of the people. Then, God would ask him if he had committed the sins that He would name; these sins would be minor ones. The man would admit that he really had committed those sins. Then, God would tell him that He had forgiven those sins and instead, had rewarded him with ten good deeds for each sin. The man would think that if that is the reward for minor sins, how great the reward would be for his major sins. And he would begin to tell God that he had committed some other sins also, which he would name and they would be major sins. God would listen to him and laugh; He would say: "My kindness has made this man bold to the extent that he has himself told me of his major sins." Then He would command him to go and enter paradise through any of the eight doors.

What does anyone know how God is going to deal with the man (about whom people talk as if they know what is there in his heart) and what is there in his heart. One should therefore shun backbiting altogether. (Malfoozat Vol. 8, pg. 417)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 12/26/2003- Backbiting and the Perils of indulging in it

In today’s Friday sermon, Huzoor focused on the issue of backbiting and the perils of indulging in it. Huzoor reminded us that some of the vices may apparently look insignificantly small, but they have long-lasting and widespread effects on the entire society. Backbiting is one such vice, among others. A hadith describes backbiting to be equivalent to eating the flesh of a fellow Muslim brother. Even the cruelest tyrant would be reluctant in engaging himself in such a filthy act. Huzoor related an account where a companion of the Holy Prophet, along with his friends, walked by the body of a dead mule, whose stomach had swollen after its demise. The companion said that it is better to eat the flesh of this mule than backbite against a Muslim brother.

Huzoor explained that cultured and sensible people know better not to eat the flesh of another human being, but they freely indulge themselves in the habit of backbiting without any qualms. If one does realize his mistake and vows to refrain from such activities, he should ask for forgiveness from Allah, seek His divine help and strive to become righteous. Allah is most Forgiving and most Merciful.

Some people don’t know the definition of backbiting and they pass nasty remarks about others without realizing that they are backbiting. The Promised Messiah (as) explains that anything,

Lajna Ima'illah USA 19 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2 which may be said in the presence of a person and would be unpleasant to him becomes part of backbiting when said in the absence of that person. Generally, backbiting about the following in a person’s absence would be unpleasant to him if he found out: his spirituality, his worldly matters, his physical appearance, financial status, his spouse, his servants, his personality and his relationships with others.

People often talk about others fearlessly but they do not like it if they become the subject of such talk. Therefore, as a rule, one should never participate in any activity that would be hurtful if someone else does the same to you. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih I advised that one should abstain from being too curious about the lives of other people because that leads to backbiting which in turn leads you away from becoming righteous. The Promised Messiah advises us to abandon the habit of backbiting because Allah abhors those who backbite. Ask for forgiveness and Allah, the Almighty, has the power to set you towards the right path.

Some people take pleasure only in listening to others while they gossip and think that they are not backbiting, but gradually, they become part of the talking circle and commit this grave sin. Children from the very early stage should be trained not to participate in any gathering where such conversations are taking place. The Promised Messiah notes that backbiting is more common among women. They should make an extra effort to refrain from it. There is a hadith that states that in Paradise, there will be an abundance of poor people, whereas in Hell, an abundance of women. Some vices are more common among women, such as vanity, superiority complex, backbiting, rivalry, etc. Whether it is a male or a female who possess these weaknesses, they should strive against them. Even though we do not find many people in our Jama’at who possess these ill habits, but because the society that we live in affects us all, we should always protect ourselves against them, and assess ourselves periodically.

A hadith reminds us that the beloved of Allah are those who possess His attributes and one is reminded of Allah when one sees such a man. We should strive to become such a person who is the beloved of Allah.

The Holy Prophet (saw) was so cautious that he would warn against the slightest indications of a sinful activity. At one occasion, all Hazrat Ayesha (ra) said to the Holy Prophet (saw) about someone was that she is short. The Holy Prophet said that even this is backbiting. At another occasion, the Holy Prophet said that on the Day of Judgment, a man’s deeds will be read out to him. He will remind Allah of the good deeds he had done, but Allah will say that those good deeds have been taken away from your account because you participated in backbiting. Such is the gravity of this sin that it takes your good deeds away from you.

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) explains that the wisdom behind this tenet of Islam i.e. prohibition of backbiting is that a person forms an opinion about another based on false rumors he has heard through gossip. Since such an opinion is based on misunderstanding, it creates differences among the community members and prevents harmonious relationships to form between them. The Holy Prophet (saw) says listening to gossip and indulging in gossip are both forbidden.

Huzoor reminds us that no one is perfect; therefore we must look at our own condition critically before we raise our finger towards another person. It takes a courageous man to look at his own

Lajna Ima'illah USA 20 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2 faults. Once he starts to observe himself, he will refrain from talking about others. The Promised Messiah (as) has reminded women that they should avoid dishonesty, criticism of others, exaggeration and false accusations.

Huzoor said that we should not be the judge of another person’s good or bad disposition, but let Allah be the Judge because only He knows the true state of a man’s heart. If we see a weakness in another person, we should pray for that person with a sincere heart instead of criticizing him. In the end, Huzoor said that we should busy ourselves in doing istighfar at all times. He prayed for the Jama’at that Allah enables us to follow the advice of the Promised Messiah and to become righteous, Ameen.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 10/10/2014 - Worship, Anger-Management and Forgiveness

Huzoor said many cases come before him, some of which are marital conflicts; others are regarding business dealings which illustrate people becoming so furious that they do not see what they are saying or indeed what they are doing. Husbands emotionally hurt wives and are also physically violent. In other cases people adopt wrong attitudes. When Islahi Committee or Qadha Board intervenes they do not even try to understand and are inflexible in their attitude. When and if any disciplinary action is taken against them, then they come to their senses, write in to apologize and try and redress the situation somewhat. It is correct that such people save their ending by apologizing after being disciplined but they are marked in terms of being chastised. Had they not become embroiled in their egotistical trap the matter could have been resolved by mutual understanding! Then there are those who do not agree under any circumstances. This world and its benefits are temporary. We should be concerned about our ending!

Huzoor said he often draws attention to raise our moral standards and not get entangled in egotism over trivial matters. Each member of the Jama’at should try and become a model of humanity. It is human nature to feel anger at times but God has commanded true believers to keep their emotions in check. As regards marital issues, in the Quranic verses recited during the Nikah sermon commandments have been given with righteousness in view and these commandments are essential for both husband and wife. However, some people do not regard them essential and are inflexible. They feel pride in sticking to their stance and demeaning the other party. They deem their sentiments as right and have no consideration for the sentiment of the other person because in their mind the other person deserved to get what they meted out to them. If the outlook of such people is accepted then it means that their religion is false because religion says one thing and they say quite the other. They can of course say that it is difficult for them to abide by whatever religion commands in a given situation but to maintain that whatever they did was unavoidable and there was no other way out is tantamount to falsifying their religion.

God commands us to suppress our anger, treat others with courtesy, not be obstinate about our mistakes and strive to pay the dues of mankind. In fact the Promised Messiah (as) even said that a person who does not pay the dues of man, does not show courtesy as commanded by

Lajna Ima'illah USA 21 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

God, will also not be paying the dues of God and his worship will only be pretense as it would not have brought about any good change in him, would not have instilled any humility in him!

Huzoor remarked that video cameras are freely available nowadays, if someone makes a video of themselves in a rage and play it back once they come to their senses, they would be so embarrassed at how they behaved!

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘Remember wisdom and anger completely repel each other. And whoever is patient and displays a model of even-mindedness is given a light which freshly illuminates his senses and then light goes on to create light. Since anger and fury darkens the heart and the mind, darkness goes on to engender darkness!’

SECTION II ACTIVITY

How do backbiting and uncontrolled anger take one away from Allah Ta'ala? Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, presentation, panel discussion) on backbiting and anger and examine their effect on: i) the self, ii) family life, iii) the Jama'at.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Seek forgiveness from Allāh before you go to sleep for any resentful thoughts or anger you hold against anyone, and make efforts to refrain from such thoughts in the future.  Whenever someone wants to share the latest gossip with you, politely tell them to refrain, or at least walk away from them.

SECTION III MARITAL HARMONY

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) UK JALSA SALANA 7/23/11 – Taqwa and Marriage

The basis of the mutual confidence built after marriage should also be on Qaule Sadīd; on what is clear, unambiguous and truthful. Allah knows human nature and has given upholding truth as the basic instruction for societal peace to help fulfil mutual relationships and live in peace and well-being. It should be a truth, which is not confusing in any way at all. It is stated that if one promises to always say what is clear and unambiguous and not go near lies and misinformation, Allah guarantees forgiveness of sins. One’s deeds will be reformed, and obviously when deeds are reformed and one works to gain the pleasure of Allah, then Allah also loves that person. Just as I explained by giving the example of the Ḥadīth of the Holy Prophet (saw), that if you stop telling lies, your other vices will be removed. Thus, everyone should adopt this principle.

Every person’s sustenance, be it man or woman, is in obedience of Allah and His Prophet (saw). If one claims to be a believer, be it a man or a woman, then one has to abide by them, therein is our success. Thus one would garner bounties of Allah, in this life as well be the recipient of blessings in the Hereafter.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 22 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

The last verse (59:19) also draws attention with reference to Taqwā that this world should not be considered one’s sole effects; it should not be considered that this world is everything. Be aware and be mindful. This is not an insignificant matter. Be particularly mindful as to what you have sent off for tomorrow and what virtues you are practising. What Taqwā have you adopted? Have you safeguarded your Salat? Have you fulfilled the dues of your husbands and have the husbands fulfilled the dues of wives? Have the dues of children been fulfilled? Have you upheld your pledges and protected your familial relations? There will be accountability to Allah for all of this, so be mindful what you have sent forth because the real blessings, which will be everlasting, are the blessings of the Hereafter. Remember not to think that your practices in this world are hidden from Allah. Allah states that He is well aware of everything you do. This verse is yet again reminding that the root of every evil is in not following Taqwā and not paying attention to it. Thus, if you want real moral and spiritual advancement, remember that it is not possible without faith and belief in Allah and sincere adherence to His commandments.

Therefore, matrimonial matters and fulfilment of relationships outwardly appears to be a worldly matter but for a believer the world is also his or her faith. An Aḥmadī believer, man or woman, indeed has to and should live his or her life in the manner that would fulfil his or her pledges. Only then will they become recipients of blessings and will be fulfilling the pledge that an Aḥmadī makes with the Imam of the Age, the Promised Messiah (as) after entering the Jamā‘at in the form of the pledge of allegiance (Bai‘at). Our girls and women should also be mindful that their foremost obligation is to abide by Taqwā and the pleasure of Allah. Marriage too is to seek the pleasure of God and for the continuation of pious progeny. In this regard, when enjoining men about which qualities they should look for and give preference to in a match, the Holy Prophet (saw) said that a woman’s piety should be given preference.

In one Ḥadīth, Ḥaḍrat ‘Abdullāh bin ‘Amr (ra) narrates that the Holy Prophet (saw) said that this world is but a provision and the best entity of benefit in the world is a pious woman (Sunan Ibn Mājah, Kitabun-Nikāḥ, No. 1855)

That is, a pious woman is the best among the provisions needed to spend life in this world. Likewise, another Ḥadīth relates that Ḥaḍrat Abū Hurairah (ra) narrates that the Holy Prophet (saw) said, “A woman may be married for four reasons: for her property, her status, her beauty and her religion, but you should give preference to a religious woman. May God bless you and you get a religious woman.” (Bukhārī, Kitabun-Nikāḥ, No. 5090)

Thus, if our men also abide by Taqwā and keep these qualities in view, every girl will follow virtuous ways more than ever. With the grace of Allah our girls, our young women generally follow virtuous ways. However, those who are influenced by society should also enhance their standards of virtue. When girls will enhance their standards of virtue considering it as a benchmark for a matrimonial match, they will also try and seek those boys who have higher standards of virtues. Compatibility is in the standard of piety and Taqwā being the same. It cannot be that a villain, a thief and robber says that he wishes for a pious and virtuous wife who abides by Taqwā. It should not be assumed that the Holy Prophet (saw) considered men to be pious and thus told them that they all were very pious and touching high standards of piety therefore they should seek a pious woman. He certainly prayed for the person because he must

Lajna Ima'illah USA 23 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2 have known about his piety. However, he also imparted a matter of principle, and told men that they too should become pious and then marry pious women. If they were not pious and were embroiled in bad practices how could they seek pious wives? Indeed, it is a pious man alone who will seek a pious wife and thus man and woman will abide by Taqwā and focus on establishing their relationship and raising pious children. Attention has been drawn that they both uphold virtues so that a pious generation ensues; a generation which would create a beautiful society which would abide by Taqwā and a family which would abide by Taqwā.

Thus, lack of patience, love of the world and distance from Taqwā in the world today has created fissures in the sacred relationships of husbands and wives. The solution lies in practising these Qur’ānic commandments alone. I have to regretfully say that our girls, women and men are being influenced by the current ways of the world.

The Promised Messiah (as) stated: ‘Do not emulate those nations who have fallen completely to materialism.’ (Kashtī-i-Nūḥ, Rūḥānī Khazā’in, Vol. 19, p. 22)

Do not follow those who consider this world everything. The divorce rate in the world and in these [Western] countries has particularly gone up sharply. It has been high among materialistic people for a long time. Marriage lasts for a while and then breaks down. This environment is affecting Aḥmadīs as well, not just here but also in Pakistan, India and other places. Therefore, we should be drawn towards our reformation, lest in imitating the world, we too drown ourselves in the darkness, which is destroying the world and is responsible for its destruction. On the contrary, we should keep our weaknesses in view and focus on our reformation.

A very worrying analysis has come before me as I review different countries. In general terms the situation is that our rate of divorce and Khul‘a are continuing to rise. The reason for this is impatience, lack of virtues and distance from Taqwā. When I reviewed the situation of the last three years here in the UK, I was astonished that the rate of divorce and Khul‘a have gone up approximately 3%, and 20% of all marriages are ending in divorce. This is a worrying situation and we need to pay a great deal of attention to it. When looked into, the reasons behind this are the ones I mentioned earlier; use of abusive language between husband and wife, bad morals and a lack of tolerance. There is also the interference of parents, siblings and relatives; be it the siblings and parents of the man or the woman. Interference in each other’s relations worsens the situation. Although it is enjoined to fulfil duty to Rehmi relations, parents and siblings are also commanded not to create conflict and to let the husband and wife live in peace. If this were practiced, relationships would never break so rapidly. There is also the factor of not being truthful. Boys come here from abroad to get married. Girls here are educated. It is said that the boy is a graduate but it is later found out that he has even failed his Matric and the relationship breaks. Similarly, shortcomings in girls are found out. So truth should always be adhered to.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 07/15/2005- Blessed Model of the Holy Prophet (saw)

In his Friday sermon, Huzoor (aba) gave important advice to members of the Jama’at regarding trustworthiness and truthfulness. Huzoor stated:

Lajna Ima'illah USA 24 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

…Where the [Holy Prophet (saw)] showed these most excellent examples himself, he also advised his followers to set such examples, and to pay consideration to this even in the minutest of details. For example, there is the relationship between husbands and wives. [The Holy Prophet (saw)] advised even here that this relationship is a trust and instructed to take care of it.

Hazrat Abu Saeed Khidri (ra) narrates that the Holy Prophet (saw) stated that, ‘On the Day of Judgment the worst breach of trust in the sight of Allah the Exalted would be that a man establishes relations with his wife, and then tells her hidden secrets to other people. (Sunan Abu Dawood. Kitabul Adab, Baab fee Naqlul Hadith)

In today’s society people tell their personal matters about their relationship as husband and wife to their parents and this sometimes leads to bitterness [and] gives rise to conflicts. Sometimes it is the parents who have the habit of [being too intrusive,] asking their children about [personal] matters in minute details. And then this becomes the cause of conflicts.

This is why the Holy Prophet (saw) had said: ‘[Regarding] matters between husbands and wives – whatever type of matters they may be – [that] it is neither their right to tell others, nor should others ask about them nor listen to them.’ If [people] follow this advice, in my opinion many conflicts would disappear on their own.”

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 04/06/2007 - Divine Attribute of Maalik

In this Friday sermon, Huzoor, with reference to a hadith of the Holy Prophet (saw) explained the responsibilities incumbent upon each person by virtue of being a guardian. Huzoor also shed light in detail on marital relations. Huzoor stated:

Today I will discuss certain Ahadith relating to the attribute of Maalik. In one tradition it is stated that Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar (ra) said that I have heard the Holy Prophet say: ‘Each of you is a guardian and is accountable for his charges. The Imam, who is the guardian, is answerable for his followers, a man is guardian over his family and he will be asked about his dependents. A woman is guardian over her husband’s home, and she will be answerable about her responsibilities. A servant is guardian over his master’s property and he will be accountable (answerable) for his master’s property. (Bukhari Kitabul as Qiraz Hadith Number 2409)

“In this hadith, 4 people are addressed. One, the Imam should watch over his followers. Next, the head of the household, that he should look after his wife and children, and if he is the head of the extended family, he should watch over them; a woman who is guardian of her husband and his children should look after them; the same goes for the servant who is guardian over his master’s property. In the end, he stated; ‘All these people who have been entrusted with this responsibility… whether it is the head of the family, or, as I have pointed out, certain extended families have agreed upon a head of their families; they should also remember that they are responsible for the moral training of their children or extended family. Their own actions should be righteous. Their own preferences should be such, which conform to religion. They should be deeply connected to (associated with) the Nizame Jamaat and to Nizame Khilafat. If there is total devotion and effort to obey the commandments of Allah Ta’ala, only then can they guide

Lajna Ima'illah USA 25 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2 their charges in the true manner. If they themselves are inclined towards prayers, only then can they motivate their wives and children. If they, themselves have respect for Nizame Jamaat, only then can they teach respect of Nizame Jamaat to their wives and children and their families. If they themselves obey the Khalifa and pray for him, only then can they draw the attention of their wives and children and those in their charges towards it. Thus, the head of the household bears a great responsibility; otherwise remember that the Day of Judgment is right before us.

Then, the wife is reminded, that she should watch over her husband’s household, his honour, his possessions and his children. Her lifestyle and behavior should be such that no one dares to raise any objection against her. Her husband’s money should be spent appropriately. Some ladies have the habit of spending money recklessly, or waste it on fashions or unnecessary items. They should refrain from this practice. Children’s training should be in such a manner, that they feel connected to the Jama’at and to the Khilafat. They are aware of their responsibilities. They are mindful of their education. They should be thoughtful and display high morals, so that a husband may not have this complaint, that in my absence, my wife is not performing her duties properly (as husbands very often stay out of the home in the course of their business). The Holy Prophet (saw) says that a husband’s objection or even his reprimand should be accepted. All this will happen in this world, but remember, you will also be answerable on the Day of Judgment. Allah knows better what action will be taken. May Allah have mercy on everyone!”

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) asked the question – Are husbands and wives paying the dues of each other’s trusts and of their families?

Discuss the responsibilities of husbands and wives to each other. What are the behaviors that break the dues of each other’s trusts and how can we fulfill these trusts?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Take time to show appreciation for what your spouse does for the family. Make time for each other, even with hectic schedules.  Always keep in mind that when you do something just to please your spouse, you are pleasing Allah Ta’ala.  Read guidelines for Marriage and Rishta Nata given in Workbook.

Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if you forgive us not and have not mercy on us, we shall surely be of the lost. (Holy Qur'an 7:24)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 26 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 2

QUARTER 3 OCTOBER- NOVEMBER- DECEMBER 2015 All Majālis to complete Section I activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

2nd CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subject: Truthfulness, Societal ills, Self-reformation Goal: To make truthfulness the foundation of every action Self-reflection questions: Is each one of us trying our utmost to reform our lifestyle as the Promised Messiah (as) taught? Have we established that level of truthfulness where there is not even a hint of falsehood and deception?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 2 – That he/she shall keep away from falsehood, fornication, adultery, trespasses of the eye, debauchery, dissipation, cruelty, dishonesty, mischief and rebellion; and will not permit himself/ herself to be carried away by passions, however strong they might be.

SECTION I TRUTHFULNESS

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 09/09/2011- Practice truth in all aspects of your life

“Truthfulness is such a quality that has not only been promoted or endorsed by religion, in fact it is endorsed by every single person whether he follows a religion or not. Universally, this great quality of truthfulness is endorsed to great extents. However, assessing this (reveals) that despite this expression (of endorsing truthfulness), the due obligation of expressing the truth is not fulfilled. From the level of individual or personal to matters of international relations, whenever the opportunity arises for anyone, lying or falsehood is relied upon for the benefit of their vested interests and personal gains. To the same degree and intensity to which the adoption of truthfulness is endorsed, this expression of truth is negated when the time arrives. To attain personal desires in even trivial, daily matters, lying or falsehood is relied upon. That real truthfulness, which is called qawle-sadeed, is being negated.

In business affairs, a large proportion of the world relies upon falsehood or lying. In social matters, more than often lying or falsehood is relied upon. In national politics truthfulness is completely annulled. We find that the foundation of international politics and also international relations is usually based on lying and falsehood. This is what we now normally observe; to the extent that even in religion, which purely calls towards truth and propagates truth, people for their vested interests, have also combined falsehood and lying. And they have destroyed the truth or have tried to. They hide the truth in such a manner, that no indication of truth is left at all.

Some firmly believe that if you lie to a large enough degree, it will become something truthful, and that the truth becomes falsehood and falsehood becomes the truth. This audacity, this

Lajna Ima'illah USA 27 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 brazenness, usurps truth at every level, and this is because there is no longer belief in God. If there was belief in God, then at every level falsehood would not be relied upon as it is in the society or at this time, as is often the case.

In personal lives, disagreements and acrimonies arise because truth is not adopted and adhered to. Because of this, the husband does not trust his wife and the wife does not trust her husband and when the children witness all of this, when they see that on so many occasions their parents lie, then this habit of lying also rubs off onto the children.

When the new generation becomes involved in immoral or wrong acts at times, it occurs because the lies that were told in the house led them to performing other bad deeds. So consciously or unconsciously, instead of adopting respect and honor for the truth in the future generations, some households are actually negating truthfulness and are destroying their children in this way.

This is the state of other societal relations as well. In the same way there is lying in business and trade, as I said before. Unfortunately, in Muslim countries, this disease is more common. The degree to which they profess the expression of telling the truth and displaying honesty, to that same degree are they in practical terms annulling and usurping the truth…

…We have been instructed to follow the Uswa, the example of the Holy Prophet (saw). Therefore whilst following this example of the Holy Prophet (saw) we, most of all, need to adopt this quality of truthfulness. We can only further the message of the Promised Messiah (as) when we adopt this quality. It is then that we can be successful in conveying the message of the Holy Prophet (saw) to the world. However, we can only attain the true levels of truthfulness, we will only attain blessings, we will only attain those standards when in our actions and deeds, in our words, from all angles, at every level and at every moment, we immerse ourselves in truthfulness. From our household family lives to our lives outside the home, in whatever society and environment we may live in, our truthfulness needs to shine as an example. It is only then that blessings will permeate in our words. It is only then that our morality and our truthfulness will impact upon others and bring them towards Ahmadiyyat and Islam. In short, this is the reason why we need to make great efforts and strive in this regard. We need to channel our actions so that they are immersed in truthfulness.

Also for the progress of the Jama’at we need to make great efforts. If you are caught lying, not only are you putting yourself into difficulty but in fact you are also becoming the means of disgracing Islam and the Jama’at.

There are also other immoral acts. Some youngsters keep bad company. Then there are matrimonial disputes, disagreements between the husband and wife. Sometimes, the matter even reaches the police where one party makes false statements.

All of these things become the means of disgracing the Jama’at and this sets a bad example in society and becomes a hindrance in the preaching efforts. Conversely, if one gives false statements habitually, then within the Jama’at, in one’s personal matters, a person also relies on falsehood and lying. And based on this falsehood, everything in his life becomes devoid of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 28 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 blessings. As I stated, that this has a detrimental effect on the children in the home. They do not listen to what they are told. Some children even write to me that our father outside the home is well known for being a very honest, sincere, upright and pious person who serves the Jama’at greatly, but we are aware how he is within the home, how he makes wrong/false statements. He does not tell the truth. So what influence can such fathers have on the children? Or what influence can such mothers have on their children, those who use false statements? When this matter is investigated then again they adopt falsehood and say that everything is fine, we are correct. Thus the Tabligh (preaching) efforts and also the statements of such people have no effect. When such people have no influence on their children within their own homes, their children are negatively influenced by their parents. A wrong impression is being set upon those children; then how can they reform the outside world? Therefore, every single Ahmadi needs to pay heed and take care of this matter that if these issues arise and increase then we will be counted amongst those people who say one thing, but act differently.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 06/21/2013 - Essence of speaking the truth

The Promised Messiah (as) wrote:

‘Qawle-sadeed (the right word) entails uttering what is completely true and appropriate and has no hint of randomness, uselessness and falsehood.’

‘O’ you who believe, fear God and say what is based on truth, honesty, fairness and wisdom.’

‘Do not talk randomly and speak at the right time and place.’ (Translated from Tafseer Holy Qur’an, Vol. III, pp. 731 – 732)

The above statements [of the Promised Messiah] make it clear that Taqwa is attained when truth is upheld in every situation, in times of difficulty or ease; be it when arriving at a decision when in a decision-making capacity, at the time of giving testimony, at home with wife and children, with friends and family, in business while selling or buying and with one’s employer. In daily matters and exchanges everything should be completely truthful and without ambiguity, which may not lead the other to random interpretation. One should be truthful even if it goes against one. Some people think that a little falsifying in every day matters does not matter. God states, it matters. Such practices lower the standard of Taqwa; lead one to falsehood and distance from God or to rejection by God. True believers stay firm on qawl e sadeed (the right word).

A benchmark of qawle-sadeed is that whatever one says is pertinent and appropriate. It is not essential to say everything that is true. If it is not pertinent and appropriate it can cause discord and strife. By divulging secrets of others, relationships break down. However, at times something may not be appropriate in one situation but becomes necessary in another situation. For example, some matters are brought before the Khalifa of the time which are for reformation. These matters are not for divulging in other situations but here their disclosure becomes pertinent and appropriate. A matter is pertinent and appropriate when something frivolous is not said in the name of qawle-sadeed and no overstatement/exaggeration is made in the guise of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 29 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 explanation. Sometimes people bring something to notice for reformation but during the process indulge in overstatement/exaggeration. In such an instance the matter does not remain qawle- sadeed, rather it becomes a travesty of qawle-sadeed. Even overstatement/exaggeration by the odd word takes a matter away from truth and as a result instead of proper means of reformation, wrong means are utilized.

At times reformation can be done with gentle advice, by condoning or with slight discipline. However, when wrong words are used to inform the person making the decision, they lead him to dispense harsh discipline. Therefore wisdom should also be kept in view along with truth and fairness and it is wisdom to maintain societal peace at every level. Such wisdom requires that everything is said according to time and place and appropriateness. To utter what is truth without wisdom and appropriateness is not qawle-sadeed. On the contrary it becomes frivolous and rather than attain God’s pleasure, it can become a source of incurring His wrath. God’s love is attained by having a fine understanding of Taqwa and qawle-sadeed.

SECTION I ACTIVITY

Lajna member A usually wears pants, long shirt and scarf round her neck when she goes to work or runs errands. When she goes to the mosque with her children, she puts on a coat and covers her head. Lajna member B wants to visit a friend but there is a halqa meeting at the same time. She calls the halqa nigran and tells her she is unable to come because she is feeling ill and then goes to her friend’s home with her children. Lajna member C spends a large amount of money on a fancy outfit. When her husband questions the bank statement, she tells him she spent the money on the children and the outfit was a gift.

Using the above scenarios, or similar ones, conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) to discuss the following question from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba):

Have we established that level of truthfulness where there is not even a hint of falsehood and deception?

Include the effect of such behaviors on tarbiyat of children and on marital harmony in your activity.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Before sleeping, reflect on how truthful you have been during the day. Resolve to improve as needed; pray for help from Allah.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 30 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

SECTION II SOCIETAL ILLS

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 08/02/2013 - Approach Not Foul Deeds

The fourth commandment in the verses (6:152-154) is: ‘…that you approach not foul deeds, whether open or secret…’ This commandment forbids different indecencies and foul acts. The [Arabic] word ‘Fawahish’ has several meanings. It means fornication, exceeding in wrongness, an immoral act, various big sins and satanic deeds, saying and doing everything that is bad and as well as being very miserly. This commandment eradicates personal and societal evils and gives resolution for matters that spread evil in homes and society.

With reference to fornication, elsewhere in the Qur’an there is a specific punishment. If a married person is embroiled in it, he forgets the rights of his family and overlooks them and a woman embroiled in it also does not fulfill the rights of her husband and children. If the person is unmarried then he is guilty of spreading foulness and indecency in society. People forge relationships by making false promises and if due to family pressure, or pressure of society or indeed due to their own false promises, the relationship breaks down, men do not suffer so much. Particularly our Asian culture covers up for men but a woman’s life is ruined. Such instances are commonly reported in newspapers. If children are born of such relationships, they are deprived of their rights and their parents become guilty of ‘killing’ their children. Here, in these countries, there are some legal safeguards for such children but there are many people who practically kill their children, whereas such children have no rights in underdeveloped countries. There, if the rich commit such foul acts, they are above the law. It was in the Pakistani news just a couple of days ago that a woman had an illegitimate child and perversely the police filed a case against the poor woman and nothing was said to the man because he had a social standing. It is the odd case that is reported, who is to know how many incidents of such nature take place and how many families are destroyed. This is due to being distant from God’s commandments. When this is the condition of Muslims, how can we censure the others! Indeed God commands not to even go near foul deeds.

In this age many different means of foulness can be found. There is the Internet with indecent web-sites, lewd films on TV and offensive, pornographic magazines. Voices have started being raised here now that such offensive publications should not be displayed openly in shops and stalls as it has an adverse effect on children’s morality. They have realized this today while the Qur’an gave the teaching 1400 years ago to stay away from indecency; it makes one immoral, distances one from God and from religion and even makes one break the law. Islam does not only forbid obvious and apparent foulness but also hidden immorality. The directive of Purdah and wearing modest clothes are a safeguard against open and informal connection between men and women.

Islam does not state as the Bible does that do not look at women with bad intent. In fact, it states that your eyes will fall on women in a close environment and it will create immodesty and you will not be able to distinguish between good and bad. According to God and His Messenger in such open mixing of man and woman the third party is Satan. The Internet was just

Lajna Ima'illah USA 31 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 mentioned. Chats on Facebook and Skype are included in this and Hazrat Khalifatul Masih has seen many families break up because of this. He said he greatly regretted that such incidents are found in our Ahmadi homes. Whereas the commandment is not to even approach such foulness because Satan takes hold of one.

The beautiful teaching of the Qur’an commands both men and women to restrain their eyes, this indeed curtails open mixing as well as watching lewd films. The commandment also includes prohibits socializing with people who pursue such interests in the name of freedom, who relate their stories and try and incite others to their ways. Men and women should not chat on Skype and Facebook and look at each other and should not make these a means of connecting with each other. God states that these are all open and hidden foul things and they result in one getting carried away by emotions, losing one’s sense and eventually incurring God’s displeasure.

In this day and age another foul matter is being promoted which is not only against nature but a nation was once destroyed because of it. Governments are in the process of legalizing same- sex marriages, that is, plans are being made on governmental level to spread something foul and immoral. Some prime ministers are saying such laws should be followed across the globe. A [Christian] priest, probably from South Africa, who obviously follows the Bible which states that a nation was destroyed because of homosexuality, has said that if same-sex married couples cannot go to Heaven, then he would prefer to go to Hell. Such is the extent of immorality in the world today, if it continues to spread like this, then these nations will witness their ending. It will make their life in this world hellish and God knows what treatment they will have in the Hereafter. Medical research has clearly proven that AIDS is fast spreading among homosexual people. God’s punishment comes in varied forms. It is not necessary that the Divine punishment of stones from the sky will be repeated. HIV takes a person to a dreadful and excruciating end.

The faster immorality is spreading the greater should be an Ahmadi’s efforts to connect to God and try and save himself and the world from its destruction. Worldly people are appeasing a certain section of society for political gains, and promoting something, which is against the commandments of God, and they wish to spread it in the entire world which will result in destruction. Out of sympathy for them, we should inform them that God is Ever Merciful, He has kept the door of forgiveness open. He states: ‘And those who, when they commit a foul deed or wrong themselves, remember Allah and implore forgiveness for their sins, and who can forgive sins except Allah?’ (3:136). God forgives if there is no persistency in foul deeds and one has fear of God. We need to protect ourselves against all immoralities and also strive in showing the ways to do so to others.

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘Their God will forgive those who whenever they commit a foul deed or wrong their souls, they remember Allah the Exalted and seek forgiveness for their sin and do not persist in their sin.’

Lajna Ima'illah USA 32 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Discuss examples of immoral actions that our children may be in danger of being involved in (read Condition of Bai'at # 2). What are the factors that can lead to such a situation and what can be done to prevent it?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Have your children watch a short Q/A everyday, such as Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV’s (rh) Q/A sessions, or MTA programs like “Faith Matters” etc. which address a variety of contemporary issues.  Wake your children for Tahajjud prayers at the weekend and offer in congregation with them.

SECTION III REFORMATION

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 01/17/2014 - Self-Reformation: Resolve, Faith & Rehabilitation

Last Friday sermon was a discourse on the impediments in reformation of practices that repeatedly pull us backwards and the need to remove these impediments. It was mentioned that if strength of resolve, knowledge and capacity to implement matters is instilled, then bad practices can be reformed. This is because impairment occurs in the absence of strength of resolve and lack of knowledge as to which practices are good and which are bad and how should the good ones be attained and the bad ones shunned and when the capacity to implement matters is weak and cannot contend with badness. Thus, it is very important to fortify strength of resolve, remove lack of knowledge and instill capacity to implement matters. Capacity to implement matters can be inculcated through personal effort but if the person is very weak then external help is required. These were the aspects mentioned last week and today the matter was further elucidated.

As we have established, the first thing needed for reformation of practices is strength of resolve. What is strength of resolve? Many will say strength of resolve is self-explanatory, it is obviously the strength to resolve and conclude something, then why the question! Let it be clear, as Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has beautifully explained, that the connotation of strength of resolve alters in accordance with the action it is about. With this basic point in mind, we can appreciate that in religious matters strength of resolve is iman (belief). When seen from this angle, we will understand that the capacity to implement matters is enhanced with imaan (faith) and every difficulty is eased with the help and support of God and troubled situations are diminished due to imaan.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 33 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

These are not mere words; we see practical examples of this. The difference between the lifestyle of the Companions at the time of the Holy Prophet (saw) before and after they believed is astonishing. What was the lifestyle of those who believed in the Holy Prophet (saw)? Among them were thieves, robbers, wicked men who married their own mothers or bequeathed their mothers away, who killed their daughters, who gambled and who drank excessively and considered it an honor that none could compete with them in drinking! Poets would express their pride and greatness in terms of repeatedly awakening during the night to drink alcohol and gamblers would boast that they lost all their property in gambling and as soon as they acquired more property, they would lose it again!

And then, after they believed in the Holy Prophet (saw) they instilled an incredible revolutionary change and inculcated an astonishing strength of resolve. As soon as they believed they decided that they were going to strengthen their hearts to put every commandment of faith in practice, they decided that they were not going to do anything contrary to the commandment of God, they decided that each instruction of the Holy Prophet (saw) would be the last word. Their determination was so strong and so robust that weakness of practices became a non-issue! Their strength of resolve demolished their weakness of practices just as a strong surge of gushing water washes away a piece of straw!

………….Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) also related that he once faced a drunk person on a train journey who belonged to a noble family and was the son of a minister from Pooch in India. He was uttering things during the train journey, which any sensible person cannot say when sober. Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) said that a person is not in his senses when inebriated and drink turns a person insane. On the other hand we see the power of such a revolution of strength of resolve that non-Muslims have trouble believing, which was of course the revolutionary change the Holy Prophet (saw) brought about in his Companions.

A Tradition relates that once before the commandment regarding prohibition of alcohol was revealed, Companions were drinking in a house. They had emptied one pitcher of alcohol and were about to open the second when a voice came from the street that the Holy Prophet (saw) had said that God had commanded him that consumption of alcohol was prohibited for Muslims from that day onwards. One inebriated Companion suggested that someone should go out and find the reality about the announcement. Just as another person stood up to do so, yet another person who was completely inebriated took a stick and broke the pitcher of alcohol. Others asked him why he had done that, he should have first found out what the instruction meant! He replied that first the pitcher had to be broken and later the reality of the instruction could be found out. He said that after hearing the instruction of the Holy Prophet (saw) he first obeyed and would later find out what the limitation and specifications of the instructions were.

This is the amazing difference between the Companions of the Holy Prophet (saw) and others. Ordinarily, a drunk will get extremely violent if his glass is removed while he is drinking. Often such incidents take place in clubs and bars. Recently it was in the news that one drunk killed another in a bar or a club. In fact they get murderous even if something is said to them, which they find irksome. Inebriated people are out of their senses and have no control over what they say, they do not care about their parents, their limbs move about unintendedly. They neither

Lajna Ima'illah USA 34 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 care for the law nor are they afraid of punishment. Yet, the strength of resolve of the Companions overcame their intoxication. They first broke the pitcher of alcohol and later ask the person making the announcement for details. There were many houses in Medina at the time where alcohol was being consumed that day and pitchers broke with such speed that alcohol flowed like water in the streets of Medina.

Such strength of resolve is all-encompassing and such people are the champions of the spiritual world. Satan is left surrendering to them. Troubles as high as mountains are cut apart like pieces of cheese for them, and with such strength of resolve, no other method is required! The revolutionary change of 1400 years ago is unparalleled in the world but we see somewhat similar incidents among the followers of the true and ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (saw). Use of tobacco is not forbidden, although the Promised Messiah (as) once said that if it had been around in the time of the Holy Prophet (saw) he would have probably advised against it and the Promised Messiah (as) said it was not good. It has an addictive effect. Once the Promised Messiah (as) expressed his dislike of tobacco during a journey. Upon hearing this, his companions broke their hookah and then did not even touch it again. There are also examples of his companions who gave up all their previous bad habits after accepting Ahmadiyyat, there is even example of those who were embroiled in drinking alcohol who gave it up after accepting Ahmadiyyat.

These bad practices should not be abandoned out of fear of any law or fear of society. The underpinning thought should be that God and His Messenger (saw) have prohibited them; or in this age the Promised Messiah (as) has advised against them. If alcohol is not openly available in Muslim countries, as it is not in Pakistan, local alcohol is brewed which people drink and it is intensely intoxicating. The well-off arrange through pretexts to have finer alcohol available for them. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih (aba) said he has observed that here university students tend to use cough syrups etc. that contain alcohol for intoxication, which is harmful. Ahmadis need to employ their strength of resolve to avoid such things. These days aside from other intoxicants, something called shisha is available in particular in Muslim restaurants. In USA it is called hookah – it is some kind of specific hookah or whatever it is called! Huzoor has come to know that some of our young boys and girls use shisha and they say that it is not intoxicating and its occasional use is not harmful. Huzoor said they should remember that this occasional use would lead them to be embroiled in bigger intoxicants. They should use their strength of resolve at this stage and watch over their faith. Intensity of faith instils strength of resolve which determines important decisions. Otherwise law cannot impede matters as we see in Pakistan, in spite of prohibition alcohol is consumed.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 10/10/14 - Worship, Anger-Management and Forgiveness

…The Holy Prophet (saw) said that if you see an evil and have the capacity, then remove it with your hand. If you are not able to do so then stop it with your tongue. And if you are not able to do so then you should feel dislike for it in your heart.

Ahmadi society should also have a realization to stop a wrong practice and immorality and to give advice about it and to eradicate it and to have a feeling of dislike for it. If everyone has this

Lajna Ima'illah USA 35 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3 realization then even the odd person does not indulge in immoral practices and everyone tries to raise their standard. We have to adopt that way which God and His Messenger commanded and which the Promised Messiah (as) has emphasized in this age. We should practice pardon, gentleness and love. If we see someone perpetrate unfairness we should feel as if it has been enacted on us, in fact we should feel as if the person of the Promised Messiah (as) has been attacked. It is our task to stop the attacks of such people, if not with our hands, then with our tongues and have dislike for such actions in our hearts as well as pray for the victims to be saved from the aggressors. If we will react against immoral practices, our society will react against them; these transgressions will be removed from among us of their own accord. But it is noticed that sometimes, especially in marital issues, parents and siblings also join in the conflict, and what’s more rather than counseling. In the guise of friendship others also step in.

In order to reform society rather than get involved in such unfairness we should consider attacks on the victim as attacks on the Promised Messiah (as). If we follow this, our society will rectify itself very quickly. Our attitudes will fulfill the objective of the Promised Messiah (as). May God enable us to set examples of worship of God as well as examples of high morals and also enable us to make others set them and not get embroiled in confrontations and bring disrepute on the Promised Messiah (as). May God protect us from all kind of self-centeredness!

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Discuss the following questions asked by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (atba):

 Is each one of us trying the utmost to reform their lifestyle as the Promised Messiahas taught?  Is each one of us defeating every societal ill by contending with it?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Read and reflect on at least one page a day from the books of the Promised Messiah (as)

My Lord, forgive me and my parents, and him who enters my house as a believer; and the believing men and the believing women; and increase not the wrongdoers but in perdition. Holy Qur'an 71:29

Lajna Ima'illah USA 36 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2015 2015 – 2017 Quarter 3

QUARTER 4 JANUARY – FEBRUARY – MARCH 2016 All Majālis to complete Section III activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

5th CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Love of Allah, Taqwa, Keeping an eye on the Hereafter Goal: To inculcate Taqwa into all aspects of life Self-reflection questions: Do we forgive those who wrong us? Do we keep an eye on the Hereafter as regards our worldly dealings?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 5: That he/she shall remain faithful to God in all circumstances of life, in sorrow and happiness, adversity and prosperity, in felicity and trial; and shall in all conditions remain resigned to the decree of Allah and keep himself/herself ready to face all kinds of indignities and sufferings in His way and shall never turn away from it at the onslaught of any misfortune; on the contrary, he/she shall march forward.

SECTION I LOVE OF ALLAH

EXCERPT FROM ‘INVITATION TO AHMADIYYAT’ BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH II (RA), PART 2 ARGUMENT 11

'And for those who strive in Our path, We will surely guide them in Our ways,' (29:70)

'Say, if you love Allah, follow me; Then will Allah love you.' (3:32)

The verses teach that true and burning love of God and the Holy Prophet results in a meeting between God and man. He who loves God and the Holy Prophet is beloved of God. True love of God, therefore, is a sign of truth and sincerity. When the truth and sincerity of a person are in question, we should ask, 'Does he love God? Does he love the Holy Prophet and obey him?'

The subject of love is well known. Poets of all countries write about it at length. Different religions hold it up as the real measure of faith and nearness to God. The most comprehensive description of love, however, is to be found in a passage of the Holy Quran:

'Say, if your fathers, and your sons, and your brothers, and your wives, and your kinsfolk, and the wealth you have acquired, and the trade whose dullness you fear, and the dwellings you love, are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger and striving in His cause, then wait until Allah comes with His Judgment and Allah guides not the disobedient.’ (9:24)

According to this passage, perfect love of God is willingness to sacrifice everything for His sake. If a man is not prepared to sacrifice everything for the sake of God, then his profession of love is vain, a lip service only. Many would assert that they love God and His Prophet. Certainly no Muslim can be found who would say he does not love God and the Holy Prophet (saw). But the question is, whether the love he professes has any visible expression. Does it influence his daily

Lajna Ima'illah USA 37 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 life, his speech, his conduct, and his everyday movements? Many who profess this deep love for the Holy Prophet (saw), who compose or listen devotedly to panegyrics in his praise pay not the least heed to the things he taught and valued. Love of God is on their lips, but they do nothing at all to please Him and to acquire nearness to Him. When a dear one visits us, we lay aside important tasks for his sake. When there is a chance to meet friends, we are pleased beyond measure. When we receive attention from a ruler, we feel proud and elated. But how do we behave towards God? We profess love for Him, but do not care to join the daily prayers, or do so very casually. If we observe prayers regularly, we go through them with unbecoming speed, the prescribed movements, prostrations, etc., running into one another in unseemly haste. There is no absorption or self-abnegation. The same is true of fasting. The reward of fasting, says the Quran, is God Himself; yet those who profess love of God do not seek His nearness through obligatory and other fasts. Many who proclaim their love of God ignore the rights of others, broadcast falsehoods about them, and indulge in backbiting. They love God, but do not care to open the Holy Book, to reflect upon its meaning. The way they treat the Holy Book is not the way they treat messages from friends. Who would leave unopened a letter received from a friend? Who would not read such a letter with care so as to grasp its message and meaning? Profession of love, therefore, is one thing, but practicing it quite another. True love must seek expression. It must show itself in sacrifice, for instance. Such an expression of the love of God, and willingness to sacrifice for His sake, are found today in Hazrat Mirza Sahib and his followers.

PERFECT MORALS OF THE HOLY PROPHET (SAW) IN ADVERSITY AND VICTORY

The Promised Messiah (as) says: God Almighty divided the life of our Holy Prophet (saw) into two parts, one of pain and troubles and suffering and the other of victory, so that during the period of suffering those qualities might be manifested which belong to the period of suffering, and in the period of victory and power, those qualities might be demonstrated that cannot be established without power. Thus, both types of qualities were clearly established in his case by his passing through both these periods. By reading the history of his period of distress, which extended over thirteen years in Mecca, it becomes clear that he demonstrated those qualities which the perfectly righteous demonstrate in the period of distress, that is to say, trusting in God and abstaining from complaining and not slackening in his work and not standing in awe of anyone, in such manner that the disbelievers believed on witnessing such steadfastness and bore witness that unless a person had full trust in God, he could not endure suffering with such steadfastness.

When the stage of victory, power and prosperity arrived the high qualities of the Holy Prophet (saw) i.e. his forgiveness, generosity, bravery were demonstrated so perfectly that a large number of disbelievers observing those qualities believed in him. He forgave his persecutors and gave security to those who had expelled him from Mecca and enriched their needy ones. Having obtained authority over his principal enemies, he forgave them. Many people, observing his high qualities, testified that unless a person came from God and was truly righteous, he could not possess such qualities. That is why the old rancor of his enemies was immediately removed. The Holy Qur’an testifies to his exemplary morals in this verse:

Lajna Ima'illah USA 38 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

Say, ‘My Prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds.’ (6:163)

This means that: Tell them that my worship and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for God alone; that is my whole life is devoted to manifesting the glory of God and providing comfort for His creatures so that with my death they might regain spiritual life. [Islami Usul ki Philosophy, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 10, pp. 447-448]

SECTION I ACTIVITY

Reflect on the verse: ‘Say, ‘My Prayer and my sacrifice and my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds.’ (6:163). Discuss the visible expressions of love of Allah as displayed by the practice of the Holy Prophet (saw) and how we can inculcate his example in our lives. Can we truly claim to forgive those who wrong us?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Cultivate the habit of forgiveness and overlooking faults. Each time you meet a person you don’t like, find a good quality in them. Focus on your own weaknesses instead of on others.

SECTION II TAQWA (RIGHTEOUSNESS)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 05/03/2013 - God Consciousness and Unity of Allah

‘O ye who believe! Fear Allah; and let every soul look to what it sends forth for the morrow. And fear Allah; verily Allah is Well-Aware of what you do. And be not like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves. It is they that are the rebellious.’ (59:19-20)

God has made Taqwa (righteousness) a basic condition for a believer. Countless verses of the Holy Qur’an give various commandments to adopt it and maintain/uphold it. The Qur’an has called those who follow these commandments as Muttaqi (righteous) and has warned those who do not practice them about their ending.

What is Taqwa? Its summarized definition, as gleaned from the Holy Qur’ān, is to give precedence to the pleasure of God over everything else and to consider God as One and Incomparable and the Source of all powers. Taqwa is to pay God’s rights and in order to seek His pleasure, also pay the rights of His creation. The Promised Messiah (as) wrote:

‘It is obvious that to be mindful of the trusts of God Almighty, and to fulfil all the covenants of faith, and to employ all faculties and limbs both overt, like eyes and ears and hands and feet

Lajna Ima'illah USA 39 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 and others like them, and those that are covert, like the mind and other faculties and qualities, on their proper occasions and to restrain them from coming into action on improper occasions, and to be warned against the subtle attacks of vice and to be mindful of the rights of one’s fellow beings, is the way of perfecting one’s spiritual beauty.’ [Brahin-e-Ahmadiyya, Part 5, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 21, pp. 209. Essence of Islam Vol. II p.348)

This is the standard that the Promised Messiah (as) elucidated to us and this was also his expectation of us. A few Fridays ago, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V had drawn attention to discharging of trusts and covenants of faith with reference to [Jama’at] office holders. Today the subject was further explained.

Ahmadis are fortunate that among those who believe in this age, it is they whose attention has been drawn in fine detail to connect with God. It is a favor of the Promised Messiah (as) on us that he has repeatedly shown us the path to those high stations, which bring nearness to God. Certainly, each person has different levels of piety, insight, perception etc. This is why it is commanded that everyone should strive to the best of their individual capacity to fulfill the pledge made to God. If each believer tried in this regard he will be one who abides by Taqwa. Proper use of hands, feet, ears and eyes is commanded and it is obligatory to avoid whatever has been forbidden. The use of overt limbs/faculties is not only to do with discharging rights of people. There are many aspects, which have no direct connection with others and these aspects are neither of benefit nor harm to people.

If this matter is pondered over, we realize that one brings benefit or harm to one’s own self through certain practices. Yet, God has either enjoined them or forbidden them. By doing things that are forbidden man exits the limits/boundaries set by God and breaks them. By not doing what has been commanded man departs from what has been prescribed by God. Thus, by doing something against the commandment of God or not doing something as commanded by Him, man breaks God’s limits and becomes distant from Taqwa. The greater the distance from Taqwa grows the more one falls in Satan’s lap. This is why the Promised Messiah (as) said that a believer should not only avoid what is forbidden but should also be ever aware of Satan’s covert attacks. Awareness of this saves one from covert attacks of Satan who attacks in different ways.

There are many modern inventions, which can be harmful. Rather than used for their beneficial aspects, they are at times used in ways, which pose danger of satanic attacks. They take one away from worship of God and have a detrimental effect on morals. Outwardly people think it is their personal matter; what is it to anyone if one gambles, or watches late night films on the Internet or TV. Or there are some other improper things people do. They think no one should have anything to do with this because they are not directly harming anyone. However, things which are contrary to God’s way, distance one from worship of God, they distance one from paying the dues of God as well as paying the dues of people.

Alcohol, gambling, lewd films on the Internet, improper friendships in these countries cause families to break up. They also put young people on the wrong path, even lead them astray from belief in existence of God and they end up becoming malignant for society. God has stated that

Lajna Ima'illah USA 40 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 one’s every limb, every faculty and every thought should be used in accordance with what God enjoins and at the proper occasion and this enhances one in Taqwa.

In the verse recited at the start God states that after believing, one must adopt Taqwa. The attractions and comforts of this world should not be everything. Rather, one should see what one has done to seek God’s pleasure because these are the deeds, which will avail in the next world while the attractions, comforts and enjoyments of this world will remain here. One should self-reflect; the root of sin in man is becoming careless and forgetting God. If one wishes for eternal blessings one should follow God’s way.

The first of the two verses recited at the start is among the verses, which are read at Nikah. It draws attention to future life as well as the next generation enhancing in piety because pious children are a source of God’s pleasure. Pious children not only adorn their own ending they also elevate their parents’ station in the Hereafter by praying for them. God states here that it should be remembered at the time of marriage that the attractions, comforts and enjoyment of this world are temporary things. Marriage and worldly union is a temporary pleasure. Real delight is in seeking God’s pleasure, which is attained in this world as well as its fruits are enjoyed in the next world. God repeatedly enjoins to stay firm on Taqwa and do deeds that will adorn this life as well as the Hereafter and to remember that He is aware of everything. Every small and trivial act of ours is being accounted for. There is so much need to tread carefully.

The Promised Messiah (as) said in a gathering/assembly: ‘In Islam, real life requires a death, which is harsh, yet one who accepts it is the one who ultimately gains life. Hadith states that man considers worldly desires and pleasures as paradise, although they are like hell. A pious person accepts difficulties in the way of God and that alone is paradise. There is no doubt that the world is finite and everyone has been born to die. A time comes when eventually all friends, associates and dear ones are separated. All the improper happiness and pleasure that is considered as delight, materializes in bitterness.

True wellbeing and happiness cannot be attained without Taqwa. And abiding by Taqwa is like drinking a toxic cup. God Almighty facilitates all the delights for the righteous: ‘…And he who fears Allah — He will make for him a way out, And will provide for him from where he expects not…’ (65: 3- 4) Thus, the underlying principle of wellbeing is Taqwa. However, in order to attain Taqwa, we should not make conditions. Once Taqwa is adopted, one gets what one asks for. God Almighty is Ever Merciful and Generous; adopt Taqwa, He will give you what you wish.’ (Translated from Malfuzat, Vol. 5, pp. 106 – 107)

Indeed, by adopting Taqwa one receives all manner of grace from God, however one should constantly self-reflect and see if one is abiding by the pledge of giving precedence to faith over worldly matters and the pledge of treading on the path of Taqwa and keep one’s word and deed congruous.

The Promised Messiah (as) further said: ‘The passage of Taqwa is very difficult and only that person can negotiate it who completely abides by God Almighty’s will and does what God wants and does not follow his own preference. Nothing can be availed from presence; therefore what is needed is God’s grace. This can come to pass if one prays in conjunction with making effort.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 41 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

God Almighty has enjoined both prayer and making effort.’ (Translated from Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 227)

The Promised Messiah (as) also said: ‘None can be purified unless God Almighty purifies him. When the very soul of a person falls on God’s door with humility and meekness, God Almighty will accept his prayer and that person will become righteous and will be worthy of understanding the religion of the Holy Prophet (saw). Otherwise, whatever proclamations about religion he makes and his worship etc. is of customary nature that he follows by merely emulating his forefathers without any essence of reality or spirituality.’ (Translated from Malfuzat, Vol. 6, p. 228)

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘Attain Taqwa because Taqwa is followed by God Almighty’s blessings and a righteous person is saved from the calamities of the world.’

SECTION II ACTIVITY

What is Taqwa, how can it be attained and how does Taqwa or lack of Taqwa affect different aspects of our lives? Discuss these questions and reflect on ways that we can improve in Taqwa in daily life.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Take one attribute of Allah Ta’ala every day and act on it, e.g. Ash-Shakoor, the Most Appreciating. Be appreciative of the people around you, your circumstances, and all that Allah has bestowed upon you

SECTION III KEEPING AN EYE ON THE HEREAFTER

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 09/20/2013 - Essence of Spiritual Excellence

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘Every person should fear God. Fear of God would make him do many virtues.’ He also said: ‘In realty only that person is good and pious who proves to be good when scrutinized by Allah the Exalted. Many people deceive themselves and consider themselves pious, however only he is righteous in the real sense who is deemed righteous in the office of Allah the Exalted.’

This is an important advice and if it is kept in view we would rightfully pay our dues to Allah the Exalted as well as our dues to mankind. However, if we presume that our worship of God is good and we pay the dues of God but there is some sort of pretense or ostentation in these

Lajna Ima'illah USA 42 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 matters or although we worship God but do not pay the dues of mankind, then this will not gain acceptance in God’s sight and cannot attain His pleasure.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masīh V (aba) narrated a lengthy Hadith in which the Holy Prophet (saw) counseled Hazrat Mu’az (ra). He said: ‘O Mu’az I shall tell you something, which will benefit you if you remember it. And if you forget it, you will not attain God’s grace and you will have no reasoning as assurance for salvation. Allah the Exalted created seven attendant angels before He created seven heavens and the Earth and placed one angel as attendant of each heaven. They were told to remain in position and only permit those actions to go through which were allowed by God. Angels, who safeguard man’s actions and write them down daily, took the actions of a man, which he had done from morning till evening and rose to heaven. The angels thought very highly of the actions and considered them pure. However, when they reached the first heaven, they said to the attendant angel that they had brought a man’s actions to present before God. They said the actions were very pure. The attendant angel said: ‘Stop here, you are not allowed to go further, return and throw back these actions in the face of the person whose actions they are. God has instructed me not to let the actions of one who back-bites go through and this person is always back-biting.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said some angels rose to heaven with the actions of another man and they said to each other how pure those actions were and how the person did them abundantly. As those actions did not have even an iota of back-biting, the attendant angel of the first heaven let them through. When they reached the second heaven, the attendant angel there called out to them: ‘Stop here, you are not allowed to go further, return and throw back these actions in the face of the person whose they are.’ The angel said that he was the angel of pride and God had appointed him there so that he would not let the actions of any person through, which had any pride in them; [like a person who] sits in gatherings and pompously mentions his virtues. The angel said: ‘The person whose actions you have brought sits in assemblies of men and proudly talks about his actions.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said some angels rose to heaven with the actions of another man. These actions constituted of almsgiving, charity, fasting and Salat and the guardian angels were amazed at the diligence of the servant of God for the sake of attaining the pleasure of his Lord. As these actions had no element of back-biting and pride, the attendant angels of the first and second heaven let them through. However, when they reached the door of the third heaven, the attendant angel said: ‘Stop. Take these actions back to the person whose they are and throw them in his face. I am the angel of arrogance. God has appointed me to the door of third heaven with the instruction that no action should be let through which has any element of arrogance and the man whose actions you have brought is very arrogant and thinks very highly of himself and looks down on others and treats them with arrogance and conceit. He sits conceitedly in assemblies. Although his actions are good in your eyes, they do not gain acceptance in God’s sight.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said a fourth group of angels rose to heaven with the actions of another man. Those actions seemed like bright stars to the angels. They included Salat, Tasbih (glorification of God), Hajj and Umrah. The angels traversed one heaven after another, one door

Lajna Ima'illah USA 43 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 after another door with those actions and reached the door of the fourth heaven. The attendant angel there said: ‘Stop. Take these actions back to the person whose they are and throw them in his face. I am the angel of self-conceit and God has commanded me that the actions of a person who has self-conceit, as if he considers himself equal to God and has excessive good opinion of himself and has no devotion to God, should not be allowed to go through the door of the fourth heaven. This is the commandment of my Lord to me, whenever this person did anything he made self-conceit an element of it, his actions do not gain acceptance in God’s sight.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said a fifth group of angels rose to heaven with the actions of a man. The angels considered those actions like a beautifully turned-out, adorned, fragrant bride who is presented to her groom. However, having passed the fourth heaven, when they reached the fifth heaven, the attendant angel there said: ‘Stop. Take these actions back and throw them back in the face of the person whose they are and tell him that his God is not prepared to accept them. I am the angel of envy and my God has commanded me not let the actions of any person who envies pass through the door of the fifth heaven. This person envied everyone who attained knowledge and everyone who did good deeds. I will not let his deeds go through this door.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said a sixth group of angels rose to heaven with the actions of a man and having passed the first five doors, reached the sixth heaven. These actions included fasting, Salat, Zakat, Hajj and Umrah. The angels thought all these actions would gain acceptance with God. However, the attendant angel at the sixth heaven said: ‘Stop, do not go any further. This person did not have compassion for any servant of God and God has appointed me here so that I do not let the actions, which have any element of mercilessness in them go through this door. Go back and throw back these actions in the face of the person and tell him that his way in life is that rather than be kind to the servants of God, he is cruel to them. How could God have mercy on him and accept his actions?

The Holy Prophet (saw) said some other angels rose to heaven with the actions of a man and passed heaven after heaven and door after door and reached the seventh heaven. These actions included Salat, fasting, fiqah (Islamic jurisprudence) ijtihad (process of arriving at a legal decision for which there is no precedent in Islamic law) and temperance. These actions emitted a bees-like sound, that is, the angels were humming that they were taking something fine to present before God. The actions were shining like sunlight and had three thousand angels with them, meaning the actions were so profuse and so weighty that three thousand angels carried their receptacle. When they reached the seventh heaven, the attendant angel appointed there said: ‘Stop, you cannot go any further. Return and throw these actions back in the face of the person and lock his heart because God has commanded me not to present such actions before Him which are not done purely to seek His pleasure and which have any adulteration in them. This person did these actions for others besides God. He haughtily sits in assemblies of fiqah and talks about matters of jurisprudence and ijtihad so that he attains high status and glory among people. He did not do these actions for the pleasure of God but merely as boasting. His objective was to become famous in the world as a highly esteemed person who is spoken of in scholarly assemblies. Any action not done purely for God, which is adulterated with hypocrisy

Lajna Ima'illah USA 44 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4 does not gain acceptance with God. I have been commanded not let such action through. You should return and throw these actions in the face of the person.’

The Holy Prophet (saw) said some other angels rose to the heaven with the actions of another person. The attendant angels of the seven heavens let them through. They had no objection to the actions and every attendant angel said the actions were fine. The actions included Zakat, fasting, Salat, Hajj, Umrah, high morals and remembrance of God. When the angels set off to present these actions before God, the angels of the heaven joined them and they traversed every door and reached the court of God and stood before God and said: ‘O our Lord, this servant of yours is always engaged in Your worship and we bear witness to his sincerity and every pious act. He carries out many virtuous acts and spends all his precious time in Your obedience. He is a very sincere person and there is no flaw in him.’ In short, they highly praised him. God said: ‘I have appointed you to safeguard actions and to record them down, you only see the apparent actions of man and record it down. I see what is in the heart of my servant. This person did not do these actions to seek my pleasure. Rather, his intent and objective was something else and he wanted to please someone else. My curse be on him.’ On this all the angels cried out, ‘Your curse and our curse be on him.’ The seven heavens and all creation living in them started cursing him.’

Hearing this counsel and advice of the Holy Prophet (saw) Hazrat Mu’az’s heart trembled and he asked: ‘O Prophet of God, if this is how actions are, how can salvation be attained? How can I have salvation from the wrath of my God?’ The Holy Prophet (saw) replied: ‘Follow my Sunnah and have belief that no matter how good the deeds of a servant of God, he has some flaws, therefore do not be gratified by your actions. Rather, have belief that our God and Lord is such that in spite of their drawbacks, He forgives His servants. And look, take care of your tongue/speech and do not hurt anyone with it and do not consider you have more righteousness and temperance than others and do not announce your temperance. Do not adulterate the actions that you do for the pleasure of God and to benefit you in the Hereafter with worldliness. Do not create chaos and disorder among people and do not tear them apart. If you do so, on the Day of Judgment the dogs of Hell will tear you apart. Do not present your actions hypocritically before the world.’

One is truly enabled to do virtues, which gain acceptance by God when the blessed model of the Holy Prophet (saw) is kept in view. In spite of his successes and the glad-tidings he received, he used to pray with great pathos in view of his and his people’s weaknesses, although his prayers had great acceptance and he was also given glad-tidings about the future, yet his prostrations would be filled with prayers made with great poignancy. When he was asked the reason for this he would always say that God is Self-Sufficient. Also, firstly it is fear of God and secondly, why would he not be grateful for God’s grace and blessings. How could he not be thankful for all the bounties of God and all the promises He had given regarding his Ummah.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 45 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (atba) asked the question:

‘Do we keep an eye on the Hereafter as regards our worldly dealings?

Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) using the Hadith in this sermon to answer Huzoor (aba)’s question.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Recite istighfar 70 times during the day, following the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (saw).  Recite the following prayer of the Promised Messiah (as) before every Salat: “O Allah! Create in me a state that brings me close to You”.

Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the world hereafter and protect us from the torment of the fire. Holy Qur'an 2:202

Lajna Ima'illah USA 46 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 4

QUARTER 5 APRIL – MAY – JUNE 2016 All Majālis to complete Section I activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

6th CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Un-Islamic customs, Commands of Holy Qur'an, Importance of Holy Qur'an Goal: To strengthen practice of purdah and all Qur'anic commands to please Allah Ta'ala Self-reflection questions: Do we observe extreme caution in avoiding every ill and every bad practice? Do we abandon friends whose influence is bad?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 6 - That he/she shall refrain from following un-Islamic customs and lustful inclinations and shall completely submit himself/herself to the authority of the Holy Qur’an; and that he/she shall make the Word of God and the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) his/ her guiding principles in every walk of his/her life.

SECTION I UNISLAMIC CUSTOMS

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) AT JALSA SALANA GERMANY 08/24/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

The Promised Messiah (as) admonishes us not to follow the un-Islamic customs that people have added to their faith because of the influence of the society in which they live. These customs have been adopted from other religions.

For example, there are some frivolous customs during celebrations of marriage e.g. showing off the dowry or the gifts given to the bride by the bridegroom’s family, or publicly displaying the dowry given to the bride by her own family. There is quite a show. Islam only enjoins haq mehr, to be publicly announced as a part of the condition of a religious marriage ceremony. All other customs are frivolous. First, when showing off the dowry from either side, those who are well-off want to show that they are giving more than their counterparts did in their marriage. All of this is worldly competition and show.

These days, there are many among you whom Allah the Almighty has blessed greatly after migration. This is one of the blessings of joining the Jama‘at of the Promised Messiah (as). It is a consequence of the sacrifices made by your forefathers and a blessing resulting from the supplications offered by them. But there are some who, instead of being thankful by bowing before Allah the Almighty and spending in His way, become prey to self-exultation and demonstration by excessive spending in marriages.

A lot of food is wasted in marriage celebrations and walimahs [reception given by bridegroom]. Many dishes are prepared for public display. As a consequence, those who are not so well-off go into debt in order to have bridal dowry to display publicly. Some parents have to go into debt for fear of criticisms from their in-laws that their daughter has not brought much dowry with her. The groom’s family should fear Allah. Do not permit your poor in-laws to go into debt in order to

Lajna Ima'illah USA 47 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5 maintain your own false sense of self-esteem because the claim you make is that you are Ahmadis and are committed to abide by the ten conditions of bai‘at.

The reference is to members of the Jama‘at who have migrated from the rule of oppressive Islamic governments to western countries for religious freedom.

I have thus far briefly mentioned one custom during marriage. If I elaborate upon the subject further, I can cite many other prevailing customs during marriage ceremonies. When the customs take root, their victim is blinded and gradually comes fully into the grip of carnal desires, whereas the pledge during bai‘at is that he/she will safeguard completely from the carnal desires and will be completely subservient to the sovereignty of Allah and the Holy Prophet (saw). What do Allah and His Apostle expect from us?

Only that we forsake frivolous customs and abide by the commandments of Allah. Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an:

But if they do not accept this invitation of yours, then know that they only follow their own evil inclinations. And who is more erring than he who follows his evil inclinations without any guidance from Allah? Verily Allah guides not the unjust people. (28:51)

In this verse Allah has given a very clear verdict that should make us fearful: those who follow their vain desires will never be rightly guided.

We claim that we have recognized and accepted the Imam of the Age but despite taking a pledge with the Imam to forsake all vain customs we are clinging to them. Everyone should examine himself: Are we taking retrograde steps? If we are true to the pledge, while fearing our Lord and eschewing carnal desires, we turn to our Beloved Allah and praise Him, He gives us the glad tiding of Paradise.

As Almighty Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

But as for him who fears the station of his Lord, and restrains his soul from evil desires, the Paradise shall surely be his home. (79:41–42)

I will present a few Ahadith pertaining to the topic of rituals and customs.

Hazrat ‘Aishah (ra) has related that the Holy Prophet (saw) said, ‘An innovation in religion which has nothing to do with matters of faith is to be rejected and is unacceptable.’ (Sahih Al- Bukhari, Kitab-us-Sulhi, Babu Izastalahu ‘ala Sulhin Jaurin)

Hazrat Jabir (ra) relates that the Holy Prophet (saw) addressed us and his eyes were showing redness, his voice became louder, and he was very excited as if he was warning us of an invading army. He said, ‘the enemy is about to attack you any time during the day or night.’ He also said, ‘I and the Hour have been sent in close proximity.’ (He joined his two fingers to demonstrate the closeness while he said this.) Then he added, ‘Now I tell you that the best discourse is the Book of Allah and the best guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad (saw). The most evil thing is to introduce innovations in religion; and every innovation leads to error.’ (Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul-Jumu‘ati, Babu Takhfifis-Salati wal-Khutbah)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 48 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Hazrat ‘Amr Bin al-‘Auf (ra) has narrated that the Holy Prophet (saw) said, ‘The person who revives any one of my sunnah so that others start practicing it, he will reap the reward equal to all those persons’ rewards who act upon that sunnah, and their reward shall remain with them as well. The person who introduces an innovation and others adopt it, he shall share in the sins of all those who act on it, and their sins will remain with them as well.’ (Sunano Ibn-e-Majah, Kitabul-Muqaddimah, Babu Man Ahya Sunnatan Qad Umitat)

In short, the Holy Prophet (saw) told us in the above-quoted Ahadith that those innovations that have nothing to do with faith, which take one away from faith, which disrespect the commandments of Allah and His Apostle, are all worthy of rejection. They are all useless and ought to be shunned. Stay away from them because they will gradually corrupt faith. You can see that innovations have taken a firm foothold in other religions and have corrupted them. This, indeed, was bound to happen because it was destined that Islam should remain the only living faith. But if you make a close examination you will find that other religions, such as Christianity despite being one religion, have made many local customs indifferent countries as a part of faith in that country. We observe the same phenomenon in Africa. When the path of innovations is opened, new innovations continue to creep up.

The Holy Prophet (saw) has expressed grave concern and has given severe warnings to those who create innovations in matters of religion. He was very concerned about it. A Hadith relates that he said, ‘I am terrified at the thought of you falling prey to these innovations and lustful inclinations. I am afraid that this may cause great harm to the religion and may lead you astray!’

These days, you are living in Western societies that have many customs and rituals of their own which can create distance between you and your religion and that can diminish the beauty of Islamic teachings for you. The luster of worldliness is far more attractive; therefore, there is need for great caution at every step. Instead of adopting their wrong customs, we must present the beautiful teachings of Islam.

Each Ahmadi should possess such a strong character that Western culture should have no effect on him/her whatsoever. For instance, women are enjoined to observe purdah [the veil] according to Islamic teachings. It is in the interest of a woman’s integrity that she attains a prominent status in society due to the fact that she observes Islamic purdah. When a woman observes purdah willingly and she herself tells others the benefits of this Islamic injunction, it will have a far greater impact on others as compared to men who propagate the advantage of purdah in this society. Those women who observe purdah acquire many more chances to perform tabligh due to their unique prominence in society. This matter requires great attention.

There exist many other social evils in Western society. To adopt them merely because we live in this society and we feel compelled to do so is, indeed, a worrisome situation. For instance, it is wrong on your part to befriend someone who consumes alcohol and to accompany him to a restaurant or a bar thinking that: ‘he would drink alcohol but I will drink coffee or some other beverage.’ Great caution is required. One day, you may be influenced by him to try just one sip and then God forbid, it becomes your habit to drink. Keep the following Hadith of the Holy Prophet (saw) in mind:

Lajna Ima'illah USA 49 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Hazrat Abu Barzah (ra) relates that the Holy Prophet (saw) said, ‘I fear that you may be tempted by the lusts of the flesh and sexual cravings, and I am afraid of the evil consequences of sensual temptations.’ (Musnadu Ahmadabni Hanbal, Vol. 4. p. 423, printed in Beirut)

The Promised Messiah (as) says:

Until a man truly endeavors and works hard, he cannot attain the treasure of divine understanding which Islam contains and which brings a death upon the life tainted by sin. Allah the Almighty says very clearly:

But as for him who fears to stand before his Lord, and restrains his soul from evil desires, the Garden shall surely be his home. (79:41-42)

It is easy for someone to boast that he believes in God and despite this claim, to lack altogether the impact caused by real belief. Such a claim would be utter nonsense. Such people have no regard for God, and God cares for them not. (Al- Hakam, Vol. 9, No. 29, August 17, 1905, p. 6)

SECTION I ACTIVITY

Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, presentation, panel discussion) on un-Islamic customs, which are creeping into our lives as a result of worldly or selfish desires. Identify such trends and discuss how they are affecting the behavior of our youth. Reflect on the following questions asked by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba):

Do we observe extreme caution in avoiding every ill and every bad practice? Do we abandon friends whose influence is bad?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Inculcate the habit in yourself and in your children of saying ‘As-Salamu ‘Alaikum’ instead of ‘Hi’ and ‘Bye’. Say ‘Salam’ each time you enter a room where your family members are; teach children the correct response: ‘Wa’Alaikum As-Salam’ (NOT As-Salamu’ Alaikum)  Read a Hadith every day and put it into practice.

SECTION II COMMANDS OF THE HOLY QUR'AN

Be alert all the time and do not take a single step contrary to Divine teaching and the guidance of the Qur’an. I tell you truly that anyone who evades the least one of the 700 commandments of the Qur’an, shuts upon himself the door of salvation. The ways of true and perfect salvation have been opened by the Qur’an and all the rest is its reflection. Therefore, study the Qur’an with care and hold it very dear with a love that you have not for anything else. As God has said to me:

All good is contained in the Qur’an. This is wholly true. Those people are to be pitied who prefer anything else to it. The fountainhead of all your prosperity and salvation is the Holy Qur’an.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 50 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

There is no religious need of yours, which is not filled by the Qur’an. On the Day of Judgment, the Qur’ān will confirm or deny your faith. There is no other book under heaven beside the Qur’an, which can furnish you with salvation. God has been very Beneficent towards you that He has bestowed a Book like the Qur’an upon you. I tell you truly that if the Book that is recited to you had been recited to the Christians, they would not have perished. If this bounty of guidance, which has been bestowed upon you had been bestowed upon the Jews in place of the Torah, some of their sects would not have denied the Day of Judgment. Then value this favor that has been bestowed upon you. It is a very dear favor; it is great wealth. If the Qur’an had not been revealed the whole world would have been left like a dirty lump of flesh. The Qur’an is the Book in contrast with which all other guidance amounts to nothing. [Kashti Nuh, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 19, pp. 26-27]

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 07/11/2014 - Ramadhan and The Holy Quran: The source of guidance and salvation

When we discuss the Holy Qur’an with others and use its reasoning, no other book or religion can stand up to the Holy Qur’an. This is because it contains such teachings and such historic facts and such reasoning compared to other faiths that they prove its superiority as clear as day. The Holy Qur’an declares that it is from God Almighty from the start till the end and is safeguarded in its original form; indeed the Holy Qur’an announces that it will be safeguarded forever. Allah the Exalted states that during the month of Ramadan, along with fasting, which is a spiritual endeavor, also try and read and understand this treasure of knowledge and discernment. Make its teachings a part of your life and reflect over its commandments and implement them in your life. Repeat and remind yourself of [any] forgotten parts of it, ruminate its blessings during this month and self-reflect to see as to how much you practice the Holy Qur’an. This is what Allah the Exalted states to us because this is what adorns our life and our ending.

The Promised Messiah (as) explains ‘…guidance for mankind with clear proofs of guidance and discrimination…’ This means that: The Holy Qur’an has three qualities. First, it guides people to the knowledge of the faith that had disappeared. Secondly, it sets forth the details of such knowledge as had been briefly stated. Thirdly, it sets forth the decisive word concerning matters over which differences had arisen and thus distinguishes between truth and falsehood.’ (Brahin- e-Ahmadiyya, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol.1, pp. 223-227, footnote 11-Essence of Islam, Vol.1, p. 482)

Thus it is a comprehensive and complete Book which is matchless and in which everything has been stated completely. It points out the errors of the earlier faiths and makes up for their deficiencies. It is a favor of Allah the Exalted that He has given us birth in this age and has also enabled us to accept the Promised Messiah (as). By thus enabling us, He also facilitated us to understand the significance and knowledge of the Holy Qur’an through him. The Promised Messiah (as) presented the treasures of the knowledge and discernment of the Holy Qur’an to us. True insight in this is gained by reading his books; indeed, it can be gained by reading them.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 51 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 04/07/2006 - Objective of the Creation of Man

“The Promised Messiah (as) once stated that these are seven hundred commandments. So after accepting Ahmadiyyat, an Ahmadi should live his/her life with fear lest he/she may disobey any of the commandments.

For example; one commandment is about modesty, women are particularly required to observe Purdah. Men are also required to lower their gaze and practice modesty. The commandment of Purdah is specifically for a woman to protect her from the foul stares of the society and to preserve her modesty.

The Holy Prophet (saw) has said that modesty is part of the faith. In today’s world, in every society, and in every country there is too much freedom. Men and women have no sense of limits anymore. Whether there are mixed gatherings or the body is not fully covered in an attempt to imitate the Western trends, [they] are all indecencies of today’s society that are making their way in every country and in every society. The same lack of modesty, [first partially but] slowly then completely, eliminates the sense of modesty from one’s heart – [even] from a devout Muslim’s heart. When someone ignores one minor command of Allah the Almighty, the regard [for His commands] diminishes gradually, the major commands move far away, the person moves away slowly from the worship of Allah the Almighty, and eventually, he/she forgets his/her purpose of creation. Thus in this day and age young generation should be particularly careful. It should be considered at all times that we are counted in the Jama’at of a person who appeared, according to the prophecy of the Holy Prophet (saw), as a source of bringing man closer to God. So if one wants to be associated with him [the Promised Messiah], he /she has to act upon his teachings and those teachings are: to act upon every simple command of the Holy Quran. May Allah enable every Ahmadi to act upon this.

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (atba) says “When someone ignores one minor command of Allah the Almighty, the regard [for His commands] diminishes gradually, the major commands move far away, the person moves away slowly from the worship of Allah the Almighty, and eventually, he/she forgets his/her purpose of creation.”

Discuss this statement and give examples of how this may happen. Discuss whether we consider purdah to be a ‘minor’ command? Read and reflect on the etiquettes of purdah given in this workbook and hold a demonstration of correct “minimum” purdah.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Take a step forward in your practice of purdah.  Resolve not to let your head covering slip down when out of the home. Find ways to make it secure- exchange ideas with other sisters

Lajna Ima'illah USA 52 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

SECTION III IMPORTANCE OF THE HOLY QUR’AN

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) AT JALSA GERMANY 08/24/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

Allah the Almighty says:

And indeed We have made the Holy Qur’an easy to understand and to remember. But is there anyone who would receive admonition? (54:18)

There is a Hadith: Hazrat Abu Musa al-Ash‘arira relates that the Holy Prophet (saw) said, ‘The example of a believer who recites the Qur’an and acts accordingly is like that of a citron that tastes good and smells good. And a believer who does not recite the Qur’an but acts upon it is like a date, which is good in taste but has no smell. And the example of a hypocrite who recites the Qur’an is like the basil, which smells good, but tastes bitter. And the example of a hypocrite who neither recites the Qur’an nor acts upon it is like the colocynth, which tastes bitter and has bad smell.’ (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitabu Fada’ilil-Qur’an, Babu Ithmi man ra’a bi-Qira’atil-Qur’ani au ta’akkala bihi au fakhura bih)

The Promised Messiah (as) says:

…the Holy Qur’an is filled with deep points of wisdom. It excels the Bible in every way in teaching true goodness. In particular, the lamp that shows the Real and Unchangeable Allah is held by none other than the Qur’an. Allah knows how many would have fallen victim to the worship of creatures if Qur’an had not been revealed. Thanks to Allah that the Unity that had disappeared from the world has been re-established. (Tohfah-e-Qaisariyyah, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 12, p. 282)

Then the Promised Messiah (as) says: Do not leave the Holy Qur’an as a forsaken thing because therein lies your life. Those who honor the Holy Qur’an will be the honored ones in Heaven. Those who give precedence to the Qur’an over every hadith and saying will be granted precedence in heaven. There is no book for humanity on the face of the earth except the Qur’an; and there is no Messenger and Intercessor for the children of Adam except Muhammad, the Chosen one, may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. (Kashti-e-Nuh, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 19, p. 13)

The Promised Messiah (as) also says: The Holy Qur’an attracts its true followers with its spiritual qualities and inherent light. It illumines their hearts and then manifests mighty signs to establish such a strong bond with God as cannot be broken by a cutting sword. It opens the eye of the heart and closes the dirty pond of sin. It grants the blessing of delicious converse with Allah and grants knowledge of the Unseen. It informs the supplicant of the acceptance of prayers. Anyone who opposes a true follower of the Holy Qur’an is shown by the mighty signs of Allah the Almighty that Allah is with His servant who follows His Book. (Chashma-e-Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 23, pp.308–309)………..

…… The Promised Messiah (as) says: Look, Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you… (3:32) The only way to please Allah the

Lajna Ima'illah USA 53 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Almighty is to be fully obedient to the Holy Prophet (saw); and there is no other way that will lead you to the communion with God. The final objective of man should always be to find the One God who is without any partner. He should shun associating anyone with God and indulging in innovations! He should be obeying the Messenger (saw) and not following his personal lusts and base desires. Listen, I say it again: Man cannot succeed in any other way but by treading the true path of the Messenger (saw) of Allah.

We have only one Messenger (saw); and only one Holy Qur’an was revealed to that Messenger (saw); obeying whom we can find God. The innovations introduced by the present day fuqara’ [hermits] and the methods of durud and waza’if [prayer incantations] invented by the leaders of the hermitages are all a tool that leads a man astray. Stay away from them. These people have tried to break the Seal of the Prophets and in a way have made a different shari‘ah. You should remember that the key for opening the door of Allah’s blessings and grace is only to adhere to the injunctions of the Holy Qur’an and to follow the Holy Prophet (saw) and to establish Prayer and keep fasting in the established manner. That person is lost who adopts any new path instead of following those established ways. That person shall end up dying in failure that does not comply with the dictates of Allah and His Messenger and walks divergent paths. (Malfuzat, new edition, Vol. 3, pp. 102–103)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 01/10/2014 - Knowledge and Will Power for Practical Reformation

In summary, reformation of practice requires three things: strength of resolve which is capable of big things, abundance of knowledge so that our strength of resolve realizes its responsibility as regards what is wrong and what is right and supports what is right and endeavors to follow it and not lose out due to ignorance. Thirdly, we need strength to implement matters so that our limbs follow our good intentions and do not reject what the good intentions order them to do. These are the fundamental sources of coming out of sin and reformation of practices. We have to make our strength of resolve like a highly disciplined officer who gets his instructions followed in accordance to his strengths and principles and does not let anything come in his way. We should not make our own definitions of big and small sins. Correct knowledge will save us from matters which influence our capacity to assess/compare. Indeed, strength of resolve cannot determine without knowledge. And if strength to implement matters is strong it would understand the slightest of hints given by strength of resolve.

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) said that weakness in strength to implement is of two kinds: tangible and intangible. Intangible weakness is when strength is present but due to lack of use is somewhat rusty whereas tangible weakness is when due to no use for a long period it is in a lifeless state and is in need of external help and support. Example of intangible weakness is when a person who can lift 40 kilos of weight but due to lack of practice is perturbed at the thought of it. If such a person convinces himself he can eventually lift the required weight. Example of tangible weakness is when due to not working for a long period of time, the capacity is gone and the person cannot lift more than 20 or 10 kilos of weight. Such a person requires a helper and support in order to be able to lift more weight. In short, when personal strength is not there external resources have to be availed. The state of reformation of practices is the same.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 54 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

Some people have to instill strength of resolve, some are in need of strength to implement but for some the burden is too much and for them the society has to play its role, Jama’at has to play its role, the auxiliaries have to play their role. We need to instill these matters, need to pay attention to these matters for reformation of practices so that we can fulfill the objective of the advent of the Promised Messiah (as) and so that our God-given capacities do not get rusty and eventually corrode away.

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘The way of belief is to want to be given reformation from Allah the Exalted and to expend one’s strengths [for it].’

He also said: ‘You should simply show your example by practice and it should have brilliance in it so that others may accept it. No one will accept it unless it has brilliance. Similarly, if your internal state does not have cleanliness and brilliance no one will buy it. If you do not have high morals you cannot attain any station.’

Constant hard work is needed for reformation of practice so that all Ahmadis are able to fulfil the objectives of being Ahmadis and are able make themselves true Muslims in accordance with the wishes of the Promised Messiah (as).

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Make a list of all the Qur'anic commands that you put into practice each day. Select 5 of these, which you know that you need to improve upon and reflect on Huzoor (aba)’s advice on strengthening your practice. Use the month of Ramadhan to reform your practice of as many commands of the Holy Qur'an as you can.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Recite the Holy Qur'an thoughtfully with translation and understanding.

 Hold Darsul Qur'an sessions with your children regularly and / or encourage memorization of as much of the Holy Qur’an as possible

Our Lord, make us submissive to You and make of our offspring a people submissive to You. And show us our ways of worship and turn to us with Mercy; for You are oft-Returning with Compassion and are Merciful (Holy Qur'an 2:129)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 55 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook April, May, June 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 5

QUARTER 6 JULY – AUGUST – SEPTEMBER 2016 All Majālis to complete Section II activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

7th and 8th CONDITIONS OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Pride/Arrogance, Purdah and Modesty, Giving precedence to faith Goal: To reflect on our own condition with complete truthfulness Self-reflection questions: Do we give precedence to faith over worldly matters? Are our hearts free of rancor and malice?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 7: That he/she shall entirely give up pride and vanity and shall pass all his/her life in humbleness, cheerfulness, forbearance and meekness.

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 8: That he/she shall hold faith, the honor of faith and the cause of Islam dearer than his/her life, wealth, honor, children, and all loved ones. SECTION I PRIDE, ARROGANCE, HUMILITY

THE PROMISED MESSIAH (AS) SAYS: Arrogance and mischief are evil. A slight mistake might destroy all the good achieved over many years. It is written of a holy man who dwelt in a mountain where no rain had fallen over a long period, that one day when rain fell over stones and rocks also, he felt that rain was needed by fields and gardens and that much of it which had fallen on stones and rocks had been wasted. It would have been of much greater benefit if it had fallen over cultivated fields. Thereupon God Almighty deprived him of all holiness. He became very sorrowful and sought help from another holy person and was told in the end that he had offended God because of his criticism of God's bounty (Malfoozat, Vol.6, p. 57).

THE PROMISED MESSIAH (AS) SAYS: Arrogance is of many types. It sometimes emerges through the eye when a person looks contemptuously upon another deeming himself his superior. Sometimes it emerges through the tongue, or through the head, or through hands and feet. In short there are many sources of arrogance and a believer should avoid all of them. He should take care that no one of his limbs should smell of arrogance or manifest it in any way.

The Sufis have said that there are many types of low qualities inside a person, like evil spirits, and they continue to be expelled till the last of them is left which is arrogance. It can be expelled only by Divine grace, which is won through sincere striving and supplications.

Many persons deem themselves humble but suffer from some type of arrogance. Therefore, one must seek to avoid even the subtlest types of arrogance, which are generated sometimes by wealth, when a wealthy one deems others misers who cannot be his equals; sometimes arrogance is generated by family and caste, when a person deems himself of high caste and looks down upon others as of low caste. Sometimes arrogance is generated by learning. A person makes a mistake in speaking and an arrogant one immediately seizes upon his mistake and shouts that he cannot utter a single word right. In short there are diverse types of arrogance and all of them deprive a person of virtue and stand in the way of his beneficence towards his fellow beings. All of them must be shunned. But this calls for a type of death. So long as a

Lajna Ima'illah USA 56 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 person does not accept such a death Divine blessing does not descend upon him nor does God become responsible for him (Malfoozat, Vol.6, pp. 401-403).

THE PROMISED MESSIAH (AS) SAYS: ‘It is conditional on people of Taqwa to spend their lives in meekness and humility. This is a branch of Taqwa through which we contend with unwarranted anger. The last and critical stage for great devout and truthful people is to avoid anger. Arrogance and conceit is borne out of anger and at times, anger in itself results from arrogance and conceit. Anger is generated when a person gives preference to his own self over the other. I do not want people of my community to consider each other lowly or great or have pride over each other or look on them with contempt. God knows who is lowly and who is great. This is a kind of humiliation, which carries disdain. It is feared that this disdain grows like a seed and becomes a source of destruction. Some people are very courteous when they meet those who are great. But greatness is in listening to what a humble person has to say with humility and gratify him, respect what he has to say and not to say anything irritable to him that may hurt him. Allah the Exalted states: ‘‘… nor taunt each other with nicknames. It is bad indeed to earn foul reputation after professing the faith; and those who repent not are the wrongdoers.’ (49:12). Do not call names borne out of irritation; this is an act of the wicked. One who taunts another will not die until he too is similarly embroiled. Do not condemn your brothers. When all of you drink from the same spring, who knows whose fate is to drink more? One cannot be honorable and respectable through worldly principles. In the sight of Allah the Exalted one who is righteous is great. ‘…Verily, the most honorable among you, in the sight of Allah, is he who is the most righteous among you. Surely, Allah is All-knowing, All-Aware.’ (49:14) (Malfoozat, Vol. I p. 36)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 08/29/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

One must not take it lightly that we accepted the condition at the time of making bai‘at that we would not indulge in pride and vanity. Give up arrogance in its entirety. It is not easy. Arrogance has many diverse forms. Satan attacks mankind utilizing different methods. It is an extremely terrifying state! Actually, it is only through the Grace of Allah that one can be saved from it. Therefore, in the seventh condition, the Promised Messiah (as) also introduced a way to obtain Allah’s Graces. He said if we try to break away from the habit of arrogance, but do not fill in the emptiness with humility and meekness, then arrogance would attack us again. Therefore, adopt humility! Allah the Almighty loves the way of humility. The Promised Messiah (as) himself demonstrated humility to such an extent that it has no parallel. That is the reason that Allah the Almighty was so pleased with him that He said to him in a revelation: (Urdu) ‘He liked your humble ways!’ We claim to have made bai‘at with the Promised Messiah (as), and we have accepted him as the Imam of the Age. Therefore, it is all the more important for us to adopt this moral quality. Man has no reason to show arrogance and haughtiness. In the Holy Qur’an Allah the Almighty says:

And walk not in the earth haughtily, for thou canst not rend the earth, nor canst thou reach the mountains in height. (17:38)

This verse makes it clear that man has no position at all to strut about. What is it that he is so proud of? Some people think they are the kings of the time. They do not wish to come out of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 57 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 their limited circle. Remaining within their limited circles, they think of themselves as something grand. I am going to give the example of the smallest circle—that of domestic circumstances. It is truly alarming to see how savagely some men mistreat their wives and children. Some girls write to me telling me they have now become adults, but since their childhood they have been witnessing the oppressive treatment of their fathers towards their mothers and themselves, but now they cannot tolerate it any more. They used to hide in their rooms as soon as their father entered the house. If their mother or anyone of them happened to say anything against his likings, the father was so cruel that he would beat them. It is only arrogance that has turned fathers like this to commit such extremities. Most of them keep a nice posture outside their homes and people think no one is as noble as those persons. Thus, the outsiders have a favorable opinion about them. But there are some who keep an arrogant attitude both inside and outside of their homes, and their condition is obviously well known to all. Consequently, on coming of age, the children of such ill-mannered and arrogant men, especially their sons, show a reaction to their father’s cruelty to their mothers, sisters or themselves. They start confronting their father, and when the time comes when the father becomes weak in his old age, they take their revenge. There are several circles in society, and the circle of domestic affairs is only one of them. There is also a social circle outside the home. If you take a survey, you will continuously discover such examples of arrogance in all these circles.

SECTION I ACTIVITY

The Promised Messiah (as) says that there are many types of arrogance. Discuss this statement and give examples of all the types of arrogance that deprive a person of virtue and how they affect the Jama'at. Reflect on Huzoor (aba)’s question “are our hearts free of all kinds of rancor and malice for others?”

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 For one day in your dealings with people, try not to talk or brag about yourself or your children. Instead, just make a point of listening to people.

SECTION II PURDAH, MODESTY

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS OF KHALIFATUL MASIH IV DELIVERED AT JALSA SALANA GERMANY 08/09/1990

You are aware that the thing that protects a woman most is modesty. Therefore the greatest and the biggest enemy of a woman is shamelessness. The veil has an exterior form as well, but if the veil of modesty is not inherent alongside this outer covering, then the latter is left with no value. Contrary to this even if outer covering is not present, i.e. is not there with the severity that is expected, and the veil of inherent modesty is present then such a woman is safer. Some women present the excuse that since they are obligated to observe the veil of inner modesty therefore they do not need outer covering. This excuse is also false and inappropriate. The fact

Lajna Ima'illah USA 58 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 is that the veil of inner modesty does not last for long without outer covering. In such a situation the mere veil of modesty lasts for a while in one generation, but gradually it disappears and changes completely into shamelessness; and this immorality is more dangerous than before. Therefore there is no question of preferring outer covering or the veil of inner modesty to one another. Both need to advance with the same rapidity. Both need to be included in our journey of life with equally firm strides.

Of course, modesty indeed has the distinction that it alone truly protects a woman. Nonetheless, we cannot ignore the apparent means of protection of modesty. Modesty and the means of guarding it have their significance firmly established in their respective areas. It is an exceptional situation that outwardly a woman observes the veil but, due to lack of modesty, she becomes an evil for the society. Otherwise, in general, outer covering guards modesty. Thus in the Eastern character, outer covering played the biggest role in protecting modesty. Therefore protect your modesty and protect it whichever way possible, because modesty itself will protect you. Akbar Allah Abaadi, the famous Indian poet (who died before the establishment of Pakistan), while speaking on the topic of veil, said:

“For the protection of the harem the sword is no more. How long will the sticks of the hanging screen work?”

His meaning was that the sword, that is, the political power that we had, for the protection of dignity and honor of our women, is not there anymore; how long will these sticks of the hanging bamboo screens protect the dignity and honor of our women.

This is a very powerful verse and with regard to poetical beauty it is very lofty but in reality, it is devoid of truth. Because fact of the matter is that the sword does not protect chastity. Chastity is protected by modesty. Neither screens nor swords are of any use in this matter. No power in the world can stop the nations from immorality that decide to become shameless. Contrary to this, modesty will protect those nations that decide to be modest whether they have swords and screens or not.

This is the reason that the Holy Prophet (saw) stated on the topic of modesty: “alhia khairun kullohu,” meaning, modesty is a human virtue that is entirely good. There is no question of balance in this, for the more modesty there is the better it is. It is only better to have more and more of it. There is no harm in it; it imparts benefit upon benefit. Some people understand this topic incorrectly, but right now I do not want to broach this topic.

I want to tell you that modesty is the greatest weapon of an Ahmadi woman. In this context, your social occasions become the measure of modesty. They become a kind of thermometer. I receive reports concerning marriage ceremonies in particular that complete regard is not shown for the veil due to influence of the environment here. Men are also coming and going in ladies’ gatherings. Video film is being made; romantic poetry is being read. Parties also reach interesting stages. They believe that by tolerating these kinds of un-Islamic practices they will avoid being counted as conservative in the eyes of others. Their way of thinking is that they are somewhat conservative but not so mediocre that they cannot do these kinds of immodest things. They think that all this is allowed. This way of thinking and acting is not proper on any

Lajna Ima'illah USA 59 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 account. These initiatives will slowly take you to a dangerous place. You should guard the Ahmadi society here and take a firm stand in preserving modesty wherever social values are attacking it.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 01/30/2004 - Importance of Purdah in Islamic Society

Huzoor (aba) began by reciting verses 31 and 32 of Surah Al-Nur:

Say to the believing men that they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of what they do.

And say to the believing women that they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts, and that they disclose not their natural and artificial beauty except that which is apparent thereof, and that they draw their head-coverings over their bosoms, and that they disclose not their beauty save to their husbands, or to their fathers, or the fathers of their husbands or their sons or the sons of their husbands or their brothers, or the sons of their brothers, or the sons of their sisters, or their women, or what their right hands possess, or such of male attendants as have no sexual appetite, or young children who have no knowledge of the hidden parts of women. And they strike not their feet so that what they hide of their ornaments may become known. And turn ye to Allah all together, O believers, that you may succeed. (24:31,32)

Huzoor (aba) stated that he had dealt with this subject in a few of his earlier sermons. However, he felt that it needed to be emphasized again because a few people say that purdah is an antiquated restriction that should be removed in this day and age and that the progress of Islam and Ahmadiyyat is not dependent on strict observance of Purdah. Huzoor (aba) said that his answer to these people is that Allah has given clear instructions in the Holy Quran regarding purdah. Also, it is evident from the practice of the Holy Prophet (saw) that purdah was strictly observed at that time. Whether these people like it or not, Islam’s and Aḥmadiyyat’s progress is linked to purdah. The teachings of the Holy Quran will never be outdated and if anyone thinks this way then they should beg Allah’s forgiveness.

Huzoor (aba) further explained that in these verses, men are instructed in the first instance to restrain their looks. The Promised Messiah (as) has also instructed that while in public places we should walk with our eyes partially closed, not so closed that we will be stumbling over other things. Huzoor (aba) quoted Allama Tibri who has written that the meaning of restraining your looks is that you prevent yourself from looking at every such thing that has been forbidden by Allah. Huzoor (aba) stated that this instruction is for men in the first instance and if acted upon, a lot of the evils will vanish automatically.

Then there is the instruction for the women to restrain their looks. Huzoor (aba) said that it is necessary for all women to obey this instruction in order to prevent their good name and their family honor being dragged in mud. Huzoor (aba) said that if it is absolutely essential for a woman to talk to a strange man then she should adopt a harsh tone in her voice so that he may not be encouraged by the softness of her voice. Huzoor (aba) commented on the practice of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 60 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 employing male servers during the weddings to serve food saying that they are young. However, they are of such an age where they come under the instruction of purdah. Parents should take great care that they should not provide such opportunities for strangers to come in contact with their daughters and other young girls. The arrangements should be such that male servers should serve in the men’s area and female servers should serve in the ladies area.

Huzoor (aba) stated that when women go out, because Islam does not imprison women, they should observe purdah as described in the Holy Quran. Purdah of the face is evident from the Holy Quran. Only those things, which are visible by themselves are allowed to be visible and the only things that are self-evident are the height and the movement of the body during normal walk. Huzoor (aba) quoted from Ahadith to prove that the purdah of the face was practiced during the time of the Holy Prophet (saw); when a Companion received a proposal of marriage, the Holy Prophet (saw) sent him to her home so that he could see her. If the command for covering the face did not exist, then he would not have needed to go to her home to see her.

Huzoor (aba) stated that those women who are too weak due to age and are not capable of marriage if they discard the full purdah then there is no blame on them; although they should not wear makeup when going outside. In Pakistan, purdah is being misused in that the young girls are discarding it and the older women are virtually imprisoned.

Huzoor (aba) stated that someone enquired that at her job she is required to wear certain type of clothes. Is she allowed to work at such a place? Huzoor (aba) said that if she can wear long coat over her dress and a scarf to cover her head then she may work there otherwise she is not allowed. Huzoor (aba) had earlier stated about certain places where women have to work in the fields and have to keep their face and eyes uncovered. Huzoor (aba) stated that in those cases their purdah is considered to be complete even with their face uncovered.

Huzoor (aba) mentioned about being careful of maid servants who come into homes with the purpose of misguiding young girls. Huzoor (aba) stated that nowadays Internet is being used for the same purpose where certain groups entice young people and lead them astray. Huzoor (aba) reminded parents that it is their responsibility to keep an eye on their children that they do not fall prey to such vices of the Internet.

Huzoor (aba) said that according to Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra), dancing is forbidden by the Holy Quran because it causes the spread of shamelessness. Some people say that if women dance among other women then what is the harm in that? Huzoor (aba) said that when the Holy Quran says that it leads to the spread of shamelessness then it is so and every Ahmadi should pay heed to this instruction. If the Jama’at authorities receive a report of dancing at any Ahmadi wedding then this should be investigated and action should be taken against the culprits. As far as singing is concerned, singing of poems and sober songs is permitted.

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Why does Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) say that Islam and Aḥmadiyyat’s progress is linked to purdah? Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) to explore

Lajna Ima'illah USA 61 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 this statement. Include a discussion on how ‘shamelessness’ is pervading society and the way it is affecting our own and our youth’s attitude to purdah.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Read the etiquettes of purdah presented in the workbook and discuss with your family (husband, sons and daughters). Explain the importance of purdah to your children.  Check your smart phones and electronic devices to make sure that your photos are not inadvertently being shared with others.

SECTION III GIVING PRECEDENCE TO FAITH

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 10/17/2014 - Giving precedence to faith over worldly matters

Every man, woman, young and old of the Jama’at knows a phrase very well, which is ‘I shall give precedence to faith over worldly matters.’ This is because the Promised Messiah (as) drew great attention to this. Speeches of our orators cite this phrase as well as addresses of Khulafa. Indeed, this phrase is a synopsis of the conditions of Bai’at as it is a summary of the pledges of our various auxiliary organizations. Moreover these words form one of the conditions of Bai’at. In short with this phrase an Ahmadi makes a promise on which his Bai’at is dependent and on which his connection with Khilafat and Nizame Jama’at (administration) depend. If he does not practice this phrase then his claim to Bai’at, connection with Khilafat and Nizame Jama’at is erroneous and any assertions about Bai’at and attainment of God’s pleasure are reduced to mere verbosity!

In this regard the Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘If someone asserts during Bai’at that he will give precedence to faith over worldly matters but does not practice it and does not honor his pledge, then what care has God for him?

Everyone needs to have this phrase in view at all times. As it is clear from the phrase, no worldly matters should impede matters of faith and what is faith? It is spending one’s life in accordance with and under the commandments of God and to strive to gain His pleasure through each word and deed of ours. With the grace of God a large majority of people among us try and remove any impediments in the way of faith but it is a fact that everyone’s efforts are not the same. People have varying capacities in terms of knowledge and other matters. However, God knows what our intentions are therefore He treats each individual in accordance with his capacity. The basis of fulfilling this pledge is good intention and no excuses should be made. Some people have limited capacities even in the worldly sense due to inadequate knowledge or other factors while others make greater and appropriate efforts and focus on attaining their goal and indeed attain it. Today’s sermon was based on and given in light of an exposition by Hazrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) on this subject.

…God has not forbidden us to earn a living in the world and whatever is not forbidden is warrantable. It is indeed warrantable to wear elegant, valuable clothes, eat fine foods and live in

Lajna Ima'illah USA 62 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 splendid houses and have high grade ornaments. However, all this would be unwarrantable if it became a hindrance in the advancement of Islam. Sharia does not require you to look for an unattractive woman to marry. The Holy Prophet (saw) said that while looking for a prospective wife one should not only look for worldly qualities but should also look how religious the woman is. Sharia says that a wife should not become a hindrance in the worship of the husband. If our young men and women and their parents are mindful of this, family problems would be resolved by giving precedence to faith over worldly matters and the other objective, which is the objective of a true believer, that is, to attain pleasure of God would also be achieved.

Similarly it is certainly not forbidden to wear fine clothes. However restraint is enjoined not to absorb oneself so much in fashion and trends that one loses sense of religious tasks. Owing to their fineness one’s clothes should not become an impediment in service of faith. Rather than pay attention to Salat one should not be mindful about not letting one’s clothes get creased. Islam teaches not to be negligent about religious work and in this way one can pay the dues of giving precedence to faith over worldly matters. Religion does not stop one from eating fine foods, what is unwarrantable is when fine dining becomes a hindrance in matters of faith. It should always be kept in view that whatever interferes in religious matters should be removed.

… As stated earlier through the first quote of the Promised Messiah (as), the rights of Bai’at are fulfilled by giving precedence to faith over worldly matters. To have an insight of this it is important to seek religious knowledge alongside worldly things and then the knowledge should be put in practice in one’s life. Without gaining religious knowledge one cannot know what faith is which needs to be given precedence. Salat is a basic article of faith in Islam but about 80% of Muslims do not observe it and if they do offer the odd Salat in the day they offer it so hastily. Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) said that many prominent people are indolent about offering Salat and for aristocratic people offering congregational Salat is the same as eating flesh of swine is for ordinary Muslims. This situation persists today. The majority of well-off people become negligent about Salat and even if they offer it, their condition is contrary to how the condition of those who offer Salat should be. Those who offer Salat are guardians of human values and Salat bring pious changes in them.

It is said that the congregations in mosques of non-Ahmadis are increasing. Yet what revolutionary change has their Salat brought? The mullahs teach nothing other than hatred and this is the reason that in spite of increased congregations the fire of hatred continues to be flamed. Let alone their persecution against us, they are also perpetrating cruelty amongst themselves. They go to mosques with lowly worldly goals. Indeed for higher ideals one also needs to refine one’s thoughts. If the increase in their congregations is not in view of high ideals, like propagating faith and serving humanity, then it is worthless.

All this should draw our own attention, more than ever, to understand the concept of giving precedence to faith over worldly matters. If we pay the dues of mankind along with paying the dues of God and propagate faith then we can enjoy blessings of this world as much as we want! We have to fulfill the responsibility of spreading the beautiful teaching of Islam, which has been given to us. Translation of the Holy Qur’an in various languages of the world is our responsibility; we have to fulfill this. We have to build mosques everywhere so that we can

Lajna Ima'illah USA 63 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6 facilitate true worshippers and for this planning needs to be done in every country. We have to establish the best ideals of human values and with all this even earning a living becomes an aspect of faith. Otherwise what is warrantable becomes unwarrantable for us in the sight of God.

If we push aside the thought of paying chanda when a new iPhone is launched or if some money has come in and we wish to buy a new car or buy a suit, what is otherwise warrantable becomes unwarrantable. If efforts are being made to have a mosque built but we give preference to other things, this is also wrong.

SECTION III ACTIVITY

What are we doing to make the ‘warrantable’ things and ways ‘unwarrantable’ for ourselves in the sight of God?

Make a list of these and then discuss whether we are giving precedence to faith over worldly matters or are worldly desires and daily life interfering with our pledge. What effect does this have on our children?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Reflect on the condition of your observance of Salat. Is Salat overlooked in order to fulfill other obligations or combined just for convenience? Resolve to improve.  Resolve to attend every Jama'at and Lajna event for the next three months, giving them preference to social events.

Our Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after You have guided us; and bestow upon us mercy from Yourself, surely You alone are the Bestower. (Holy Qur'an 3:9)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 64 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook July, August, September 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 6

QUARTER 7 OCTOBER – NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2016 All Majālis to complete Section II activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

9th CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subjects: Service to others, Service to children, Service to parents Goal: To raise righteous children Self-reflection questions: Are we paying the dues of our families? Do we deprive our neighbors of small matters of goodness? Do we shun usurping the rights of others?

Condition of Bai'at # 9: That he/she shall keep himself/herself occupied in the service of God’s creatures for His sake only and shall endeavor towards the beneficence of mankind to the best of his/her God-given abilities and powers.

SECTION I SERVICE TO OTHERS

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 09/12/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an:

And worship Allah and associate naught with Him, and show kindness to parents, and to kindred, and orphans, and the needy, and to the neighbor that is a kinsman and the neighbor that is a stranger, and the companion by your side, and the wayfarer, and those whom your right hands possess. Surely, Allah loves not the proud and the boastful. (4:37)

In this verse, Allah the Almighty commands not only to treat your brothers, your near ones, your relatives, your acquaintances, and your neighbors kindly, but also be compassionate to them, help them if they are in need, and be beneficent to the best of your ability to even those people whom you do not know and have no relationship or association with. And be beneficent to those whom you have only met temporarily. If they are in need of your sympathy or your help and can benefit from you, then you must help them. By doing so, a beautiful culture of Islam will be established. Develop compassion for God’s creatures; with the understanding that it is something more than a good deed, it falls into the category of benevolence. Benevolence means not expecting the return of your favors; benevolence is exercised by man purely for the sake of Allah the Almighty. In this way, such a beautiful society will be established where there will be no dispute between husband and wife, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, brothers, and neighbors. Everyone will strive to be benevolent to the other. Each person will think of giving others their rights with love and care, and will do so purely to win the love of Allah. In today’s society, this is even more urgent than ever before. Allah says that if you do not follow this path, then you will be counted as arrogant. And Allah does not like arrogance.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 65 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 02/03/2012 - Allah is with those who are righteous and do good

Huzoor (aba) recited the following verse at the start of his Friday sermon: ‘Verily, Allah is with those who are righteous and those who do good.’ (16:129) and said that the Promised Messiah (as) has written: ‘In the Holy Qur’an more emphasis has been laid on virtue and righteousness than on any other commandment.’ [Ayyam-us-Sulh, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 14, p. 342 – Essence of Islam, Vol. II, p. 347]

Huzoor (aba) explained that Taqwa (righteousness) is the basis for attaining nearness to God and the first half of the aforementioned Qur’anic verse cites this point. Huzoor said there are two types of people in this world. Those who walk the paths of Taqwa, and who do good works to attain God’s nearness, who try for every virtue, and do so to have God’s pleasure which would take them closer to God. The other kind of people are those who although do good but when doing good, they are not aware that God is watching them. Among these are people who believe in the existence of God, believe that there is a Being Who sustains the heavens and the earth but while doing good they do not have God’s pleasure in view. This group also includes those who do not believe in the existence of God and deny His Being.

…Those who do good for the sake of God’s pleasure are the righteous and they are the ones who walk the path of Taqwa. The Promised Messiah (as) has described a righteous person as one who essentially avoids every big and small sin, essentially progresses in virtues and high morals and essentially has a truly sincere connection with God. Huzoor explained that true sincerity with God entails effort to fulfil the dues of worship of God and to try to the best of one’s ability to fulfil God’s commandments. Once this is achieved, as the verse recited at the start of the sermon states, it is the next stage from Taqwa, i.e. ‘…and those who do good…’ Mohsin means one who confers something on someone without any effort on the other person’s part or treats others well or excel in his or her own work and performs each act most excellently in accordance to the given situation. Huzoor said there are two types of Mohsin. One type is of those people who are ever ready to help others with a sense of sympathy regardless of race, religion etc. Who help others in time of need and surpass in their service to bring about ease for others. Huzoor said it is the duty of each Ahmadi to serve others with these sentiments, and with the grace of God, many Ahmadis indeed serve humanity with these sentiments. These are Mohsineen [plural of Mohsin], but not of the type who boast about what they do; doing that is not a demonstration of Taqwa and good qualities.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 05/09/2014 - There is no god but Allah

… We should not feel smug by merely raising slogans that the world appreciates and through which we are praised in various places. We should be mindful that this slogan is just one source to attain the broader objective for which man was created. Our humanitarian works, our promotion and practice of love and our rejection of hatred and our hatred for hatred itself is to attain God’s love and to establish Unity of God. We do not hate any individual, rather we hate satanic practices and we feel compassion for those who follow these practices and it is owing to this compassion that we wish to take them away from these foul practices and save them from

Lajna Ima'illah USA 66 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

Divine chastisement. Our love for worldly people is not borne of any worldly motive, we simply wish to eliminate their hatred and we do not seek anything from them and we do what we do to seek the love of God and to uphold Unity of God. Therefore, we should not raise slogans merely to be liked by others but should do so to attain our objectives.

We are fortunate that the Promised Messiah (as) chose us in this age to seek God’s love and to show compassion for humanity and gave us the teaching to attain these. He said:

‘There are two perfect parts of faith; one is to love God and the other is to love mankind to such an extent that one considers their difficulties one’s own difficulties and to pray for them.’

He also said: ‘It is not a good way to inflict pain on someone merely on the basis of religious differences.’

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘My faith is to not even be too harsh with the enemy. I say truthfully, do not consider anyone your personal enemy and completely give up the practice of holding rancor.’ One may think when there is not to be any hatred for anyone then what enmity? But the Promised Messiah (as) has explained it to us that we should not consider anyone our personal enemy from among those who hold enmity against us on religious grounds. We can correct them but should not have personal enmity with them and should not follow the practices of harboring rancor. He also said:

‘Compassion and sympathy with humanity is a great form of worship and is a tremendous source to gain pleasure of Allah the Exalted.’ He also said: ‘Allah the Exalted states, be sympathetic to people regardless of faith and ethnicity. Feed the poor, free slaves, and relieve those in debt and support those under burdens and pay the dues of true compassion with humanity.’

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘I do not like the words of those who limit their compassion to their own ethnicity. I advise you again and again to never ever restrict your sphere of compassion.’ He also said: ‘You should extend compassion to God’s creation as if you are their blood relative, just like mothers are with their children. One who does good with natural passion like that of a mother can never be ostentatious.’

These are the standards of love and compassion for others as commanded by God and His Prophet (saw) and stated in the Holy Qur’an. Such is the beautiful teaching of Islam about love for creation. Can we attain this level from anywhere else apart from God and the one sent by God in this age and in subservience to the Holy Prophet (saw)? Most certainly, we cannot. Thus, ‘love for all hatred for none’ is not our ultimate objective; rather, it is a means to an end; to attain God’s love.

SECTION I ACTIVITY

Discuss the difference between good works done for the sake of Allah Ta'ala and good works done without this awareness. How can we ensure that all our good works are done for the sake of Allah Ta'ala? Make a list of practical suggestions of such good works that can be implemented directly in daily life.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 67 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Perform a small act of kindness every day: e.g. moving an obstacle out of the way that would otherwise inconvenience people; keeping the masjid clean, picking up trash after yourself & others; hold a door open for a stranger etc.  Give away 100 smiles a day.  Organize recycling in your home and involve your children.

SECTION II SERVICE TO OUR CHILDREN

EXCERPT FROM ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH IV (RH) AT JALSA SALANA CANADA 07/06/1991

……If mothers are not given time and are not provided facilities for these tasks then the responsibility would lie on both parents. I want the fathers or the fathers-to-be, who are listening to this, to understand this aspect that Islam has placed the responsibility on men to earn a living. It carries a profound wisdom in it. Although women are allowed to earn when necessary and fulfill their needs, but only if they are unable to avoid it. But to earn as a profession is men’s responsibility.

The Holy Qur’an has explained it openly that women have this right on men that, as much as possible, men should provide them with a comfortable life and should take care of all of their needs. This is essential because if mothers have time and facilities and they are living in a good condition they will be able to give moral training to the next generation. If there is commotion because they too have to go to work, leaving the children with somebody else and rushing away then they cannot fulfill this responsibility. Or their time is spent in other interests. Some women, I have observed, waste two to three hours only in their adornment and makeup. Half of their day is spent only to get ready and go out of their houses. With the blessings of Allah we don’t have such women here since I know that you are all courageous and active women. You don’t even have time for it. But unfortunately families that have a luxurious life end up like this. Every woman carries an inherent danger to slip into this condition because she instinctively likes it.

When I say that you require ample time I don’t mean that you should sleep for half the day then wake up only to waste the rest of the day in your makeup and once you are dressed to the hilt you should leave for shopping. You don’t need time for these things. You need time to wake up at Tahajjud time, to give love to your children and try to wake them up too. Pray for them. Wake your husband up for prayers if he is lazy. If your brother is lazy wake him up. Wake up all the children and teach them recitation of the Holy Qur’an. Recite beautifully yourself and then make them do it. When you are free from these tasks you will need to get them ready and send them to school or do other chores around the house. So a poor woman has no time to spend on vain pursuits. Allah rewards you simultaneously for the hard work you put in with these responsibilities.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 68 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

The picture that I am presenting is based on my having seen mothers from olden times that have such tranquility in their hearts that other women could not even imagine. Those mothers, who woke up at Tahajjud, prayed and then trained their children morally. They woke up their children for prayers and then watched them say their prayers. Their eyes received such delight from watching their children observing prayers that their righteous deeds filled their hearts with peace. Contrary to this are those girls who, in their desire to lead a luxurious life, are searching for it all day. If they don’t find it outside, they listen to songs day and night and try to find solace in pop music. They try to find new fashions. There is no likelihood of a relationship between these things and the peace found by that mother whose picture I just painted. These girls who are looking for lowly entertainment are lacking this peace. Their life is restive all the time and they don’t know what they are looking for and they can’t find it. So the time that I said should be made available to you ought to be spent in these pursuits.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 07/26/2013 - Follow the Commandments of The Holy Quran

The next commandment is: ‘…you kill not your children for fear of poverty…’. This has many connotations. The beauty of the teaching of Islam is that first offspring are enjoined to treat parents kindly and not say anything harsh to them, even if one does not like what they say, one should be kind and obedient. Next, parents are commanded to carry out excellent upbringing of their children and not let poverty come in the way. Pay such attention to education and training of children that they do not end up being spiritually dead. When God gave parents the status of Rububiyyat, He made it obligatory on them to look after their children and not kill them. Of course, no sensible person would kill his children apart from the odd unbalanced, unhinged one or those who have forgotten God. Here, one keeps hearing of mothers killing their children with the help of their boyfriends and in underdeveloped countries one hears of parents burning themselves to death along with their children out of utter despair and unstable mind-set.

One meaning of ‘…you kill not your children…’ is not giving them good upbringing. Some do not give enough time and attention to their children due to business commitments and mothers complain that as fathers are not home children go off track. When children reach teenage, they do particularly need the presence and friendship of fathers as they learn wrong from outside influence. This is moral killing of one’s children. Fathers may say that their time is taken by working hard to make a living for their children but what good is wealth that causes children to lose their way? Another instance of this which is prevalent in the western world and can also be found in our Jama’at is that mothers go out to work or do not pay attention to the family home and spend their time elsewhere. When children come home there is no one to look after them. These women say they work to meet household expenses and when they return home tired, they do not pay attention to the family and neglect them, which gravely affects the children. Quite a few women work only to earn money for themselves. Some working women say that they have to go out to work because of their idle husbands. Such husbands need to fear God, being sources of ‘killing their children.’ Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) once said that if an expectant woman is not provided sufficient dietary requirements and this weakens the unborn child, this too is ‘killing’. The term also connotes family planning out of fear of poverty. Termination of pregnancy is only allowed when mother’s health is in danger, and not for any other reason. God

Lajna Ima'illah USA 69 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7 states: ‘…it is We Who provide for you and for them…’ and ‘…Surely, the killing of them is a great sin.’(17:32) True Muslims can never take such steps. Let alone great sins, they avoid the smallest of sins.

Children should be given time and attention. Their education, affiliation with the Jama’at, good, pious upbringing should be given importance. The home environment should be made conducive to pious upbringing so that children can grow up to be useful members of society. It is certainly the responsibility of parents to bring them up in an excellent manner and to educate them well. Rather than follow their own preferences, parents should give time and attention to their children. Fathers cannot say it is a mother’s job to bring up children and mothers cannot say it is a father’s job. It is of course for both of them to bring up their children together. Children receive best upbringing when it is done by both mother and father playing their respective roles. Here [in the west] there are many single parent families and children are being ruined. Schools are weary of such families as are the police. Children who go the wrong way early on in life often go on to join the criminal fraternity.

It is a cause for concern here that divorce rate is also increasing among us and it is ruining children when divorce takes place in a family with children. Parents should sacrifice their egos and preferences for the sake of their children.

GUIDELINES FOR TARBIYAT OF CHILDREN

1. Remember that a child is a gift from Allah Ta'ala who is in your care. Show your gratitude to Him by doing your utmost to raise the child with love for Allah. If you give your child a deep and abiding faith in Allah, it will be his strength and his light when all else fails. 2. Be regular in your Salat and offer Tahajjud to pray for your child. Pray for your child in every Salat, asking Allah constantly for His help in guiding and protecting your child. 3. Teach your child to love Allah Ta'ala, the Holy Prophet (saw), the Promised Messiah (as), Khalifatul Masih and also to love his fellow beings. 4. Teach your child to be regular in Salat. Try to offer each Salat in congregation; if not then offer at least two Salat every day in congregation. 5. Always remember that children learn by example. Telling a child something is not teaching him. Keep in mind that children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate. 6. Do not admonish a child all the time. The Promised Messiah (as) would advise his children about righteous ways and would keep a watchful eye on them, but would abstain from petty criticism and constant snubbing. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) also followed this approach. She expressed this attitude in the wise words; "Do not say to a child “listen” all the time, but then when you do say it, then enforce what you say so the child develops the habit of obedience. However, do not bother him all the time." 7. Discipline your child with gentleness and reason. Don't let anger throw you off balance. If he knows you are fair, you will not lose his respect or his love. And make sure the punishment fits the crime. Even the youngest child has a keen sense of justice.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 70 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

8. Address your child politely and courteously, for a child is a great mimic. If you address him rudely, he will return the compliment in the same manner. 9. Show your child that you have trust in him. The Promised Messiah (as) had great confidence in his children and never expressed any doubts about them. Consequently, the Promised Messiah’s children always felt too ashamed to ever do anything contrary to his will. More importantly, they never concealed anything from their parents. 10. Teach your child to abhor lying. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) did not stress anything more in her children than “developing a repulsion for deceit”. She insisted that her children must never lie despite fearing the worst consequences. She taught that falsehood is indeed a form of "shirk" (idolatry), because the perpetrator does it out of fear of an individual or punishments, which they perceive as greater than Allah Ta'ala. 11. Remember that a child needs two parents. Present a united front for successful implementation of training your child. 12. Tell the child that he is nice and good. The Holy Prophet (saw) said: Do not curse a child for when you curse, angels add: Let it be like that; and like that he becomes. Incidentally, this also means that angels are responsible for the consequences of actions. When you tell a child it is bad, it draws an imaginary picture in which it figures itself out as bad and does in fact become bad. Therefore, do not abuse a child. Praise him and teach him to be good. A child should not be allowed to become obstinate. If he persists in being stubborn, attention should be diverted to something else. 13. Teach your child to admit his mistakes, as a matter of habit. Do not try to hide your own mistakes before your child; be sympathetic when he commits a mistake; let him feel that the mistake is a kind of loss he has suffered. 14. If you need to reprimand your child, do not do it before others; speak to him in private. 15. A child should not be over-indulged. Too much petting or caressing leads to many vices. Do not smother your child with superficial manifestations of "love." The purest and healthiest love expresses itself in day-in, day-out training, which breeds self-confidence and independence. 16. Do not hand your child everything he wants. Teach him the importance of earning a reward; encourage achievement and accomplishment. 17. Teach your child the value of hard work. Let him know a useful life is a blessed one and a life of ease and pleasure-seeking is empty and meaningless. 18. Constantly guide your child in matters of etiquettes. 19. Respect your children. The Promised Messiah (as) would listen to his children as attentively as if they were respected elders of the Community. 20. Pray continuously. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) emphasized the importance of prayer. She prayed continuously, day and night. Almost every utterance and action became a prayer on Hazrat Amman Jan’s lips. For example, whilst eating with any of her grandchildren she would put a morsel of food in their mouth uttering; "Oh Allah Almighty, make his/her fortune good”. Also, if one of the children was leaving the house Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) would bid farewell with a prayer; "Go, and may Allah Almighty be your Protector and Helper". She also instructed them to offer the greeting of "Salam", as they entered and left the house [References: “Way of the Seekers” by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II; “Hazrat Amman Jan” by Munavara Ghauri; “Wake up and Smell the Coffee” by Ann Landers]

Lajna Ima'illah USA 71 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) in which mothers with older/grown children talk about their experience of tarbiyat of their children and share what works and what does not work with mothers of young children.

Suggestion - Before the meeting, assign a few young mothers to prepare questions on a child- rearing topic they find challenging and /or would like to have guidance on. Set up a panel of mothers with older children to answer the questions, sharing what works and what does not work.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISE

 Pick one moral, such as honesty or cleanliness, as the ‘trait for the day’. Discuss it with your children / family and ask everyone to give examples of how to implement it during their day. Notice any implementation of that trait, encouraging children to be conscious of it in their own behavior, as well as in that of others.

SECTION III SERVICE TO PARENTS, RELATIVES, NEIGHBORS

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 07/26/2013 - Follow the Commandments of The Holy Quran

The second commandment is about kindness to parents. The sequence of these directives is natural because after God it is the parents who look after us and nurture us. God has stated: ‘Thy Lord has commanded, ‘Worship none but Him, and show kindness to parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age with thee, never say unto them any word expressive of disgust nor reproach them, but address them with excellent speech (17:24).’ Sometimes complaints are received from parents of educated and level-headed people that not only do they not pay the dues of their parents, but are in fact unfair to them. Sisters write in that brothers even raise their hands to the parents especially in matters of property settlement. If parents manage property settlement in their lifetime the offspring turn nasty. These examples are also found among us and parents are left dispossessed. In this country adolescents turn to rudeness in the name of freedom. Generally speaking after a certain age youngsters are considered independent here, but freedom here has no attention to the degree of seniority, which is in fact ignorance. The beautiful teaching of Islam is not to express any disgust to parents, rather repay their kindness with kindness although it is not really possible to repay the kindness of parents.

The beautiful teaching of Islam teaches the prayer: ‘My Lord, have mercy on them even as they nourished me in my childhood (17:25).’This indeed should be our standard. This prayer can be said for parents even after they have departed from this world for elevation of their station in the Hereafter.

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘God has commanded that you do not worship anyone save Him and are kind to your parents. Rububiyyat (Divine quality to sustain and nurture) is a

Lajna Ima'illah USA 72 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7 wonder! A baby does not have any kind of strength and his mother takes great care of him in that state and the father gives the mother support in her undertakings. Out of His sheer grace, Allah the Exalted has made two sources to look after fragile creation and has placed a ray of love in them out of the luminosity of His love. However, it should be remembered that parents’ love is limited and God’s love is real. Unless hearts are inspired by Allah the Exalted, no person, be he a friend, a peer or a ruler, can love another. It is the secret of the perfect Rububiyyat of God that parents love their children so much that they bear all kind of pains most sincerely while caring for them, so much so that they do not even hesitate to die for the life of their child.’

‘…never say unto them any word expressive of disgust nor reproach them, but address them with excellent speech.’ That is, do not speak offensively to your parents and do not say something to them which does not regard their position. This verse is addressed to the Holy Prophet (saw) but in reality the message is intended for the Ummah because the parents of the Holy Prophet (saw) had passed away in his childhood. This directive has a hidden message that a wise person can decipher, that here the Holy Prophet (saw) is addressed and is being asked to respect his parents and keep their esteem in view in everything he says to them, so how much more should others respect and regard their parents! And this is what the second verse also refers to: ‘Worship none but Him, and show kindness to parents…’ That is, your Lord has commanded that you worship Him alone and are kind to your parents. This verse enjoins those who worship idols that idols are nothing and idols do them no favors, they did not create them and did not look after them in their infancy. If God wished to warrant worship of another save Him, He would have asked parents to be worshipped because they sustain and nurture on a worldly level and everyone, even birds and beasts protect their young ones in their infancy. Therefore, after God’s Rubbubiyyat, they [parents] too have a Rububiyyat and the strength of this Rububiyyat is also from God Almighty.’ (Translated from Tafseer of the Holy Qur’an, Vol. 3 pp. 59 – 60)

INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF THE HOLY QUR’AN BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH II (RA) (p 339-340)

A man once complained to the Holy Prophet (ṣaw) that the more benevolence he exercised towards his relations, the more hostile they became towards him, and that the more he treated them with kindness, the more they persecuted him, and the more he demonstrated affection towards them, the more they frowned upon him. The Prophet said: "If what you say is true you are very fortunate, for you will ever be the recipient of God's succor" (Muslim, Kitab al-Birr wa'l Sila). On one occasion when the Holy Prophet (saw) was exhorting people to alms and charity, one of his Companions, Abu Talha Ansari, came to him and offered to dedicate an orchard for charitable purposes. The Prophet was very pleased and exclaimed, "What an excellent charity! What an excellent charity! What an excellent charity!" and added: "Having dedicated this orchard to the service of the poor, I want you now to divide it among your poor relatives" (Bukhari, Kitab al-Tafsir). A man came to him on one occasion and said: ''0 Messenger of Allah! I am prepared to make a covenant of Hijrat and I am prepared to make a covenant to take part in the holy war, for I am anxious to win the pleasure of God." The Holy Prophet (saw) inquired whether either of his parents was alive and the man told him that both were alive. He then asked: "Are you indeed anxious to win the pleasure of God?" and on the man replying in the

Lajna Ima'illah USA 73 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7 affirmative the Prophet said: "Then go back to your parents and serve them and serve them well." He pointed out that one's non-Muslim relations were equally entitled to be treated kindly and with consideration along with one's Muslim relations. One of Abu Bakr's wives, who was a non-Muslim, visited her daughter Asma' and the latter inquired of the Holy Prophet (saw) whether she might serve her and give presents to her, to which the Holy Prophet (saw) replied : "Certainly, for she is thy mother" (Bukhari, Kitab al-Adab).

Abu Hurairah relates: "On one occasion the Holy Prophet (saw) exclaimed: 'I call God to witness that he is not a believer! I call God to witness that he is not a believer! I call God to witness that he is not a believer!' The Companions inquired: 'Who is not a believer, O Messenger of Allah?' and he replied: 'He whose neighbor is not secure against injury and ill- treatment at his hands.' On one occasion when he was addressing women, he said: 'If anybody finds only the foot of a goat to cook, that person should share it with his or her neighbor.' He asked people not to object to their neighbors driving pegs into their walls or putting them to any other use which occasioned no injury." Abu Huraira relates: "The Prophet (saw) said: 'He who believes in God and in the Day of Judgment should occasion no inconvenience to his neighbor: he who believes in God and in the Day of Judgment should occasion no inconvenience to his guest, and he who believes in God and in the Day of Judgment should utter only words of virtue or should keep quiet' " (Muslim).

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Find and discuss examples shown by the Holy Prophet (saw) and his Companions of Islamic treatment of parents, relatives (including in-laws) and neighbors. Reflect on whether we might be neglecting their rights because of today’s lifestyle.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Get to know your neighbors. Invite them to a meal, bake a cake and take it to them, offer to help them in some way  Say something kind and complimentary to your in-laws every day.

My Lord, make me observe prayer and my children too. Our Lord, accept my prayer. Our Lord, grant forgiveness to me and my parents and to the believers on the day when the reckoning will take place. (Holy Qur'an 14: 41-42)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 74 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook October, November, December 2016 2015 – 2017 Quarter 7

QUARTER 8 JANUARY – FEBRUARY – MARCH 2017 All Majālis to complete Section II activity (compulsory) and one additional activity

10th CONDITION OF BAI'AT Tarbiyat Subject: Obedience, Strengthening our practice, Reformation through the model of the Holy Prophet (saw) Goal: To reform ourselves according to the teachings of Promised Messiah (as) Self-reflection questions: Do we keep an eye on our condition in light of our pledge of Bai’at? Is each one of us trying the utmost to reform their lifestyle as the Promised Messiah (as) taught?

CONDITION OF BAI'AT # 10 - That he/she shall enter into a bond of brotherhood with this humble servant of God, pledging obedience to me in everything good for the sake of God, and remain faithful to it until the day of his/her death. That he/she shall exert such a high devotion in the observance of this bond as is not to be found in any other worldly relationship and connection that demand devoted dutifulness.

SECTION I OBEDIENCE

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 09/19/2003 – Conditions of Bai'at

In this condition, the Promised Messiah (as) is taking a pledge from us that by joining this organization we are establishing a bond of brotherhood with him. Every Muslim is a brother of the other Muslim. But the relationship of love and brotherhood that is being established means much more than that. You are not merely establishing a bond of equals; instead, you are acknowledging that it is a command of Allah and His Messenger (saw) to accept the Messiah that was promised. Therefore, you are establishing this bond for the sake of Allah the Almighty. You are making this contract to uphold the religion of Allah the Almighty and to convey and spread the religion of Islam to all corners of the world. This bond can only be successful and long-lasting if you pledge to be obedient in everything good and keep this pledge until death. You should be mindful that this bond does not remain inactive, but should become stronger every day. It should be so strong and its standard should be so high that, in comparison, all other relations, bonds, and friendships should prove weaker. The bond should be so matchless and strong that in its comparison all other bonds and relations should seem meaningless. Then he says that the thought can cross one’s mind that in family relationships sometimes the rule of give and take—to compromise, to accept, and to have one’s decisions accepted occasionally—is applicable. Here it must be understood that this, instead, is the bond of a slave and servant. Indeed, it should be even more than that. You have to be obedient without any grumbling. You never have the right to say that such and such cannot be done or that you cannot do such and such at this time. When you have taken the bai‘at and have entered the organization of the Jama‘at of the Promised Messiah (as), you have given everything of yours to the Promised Messiah (as). You have to obey his decisions; you have to act upon his teachings.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 75 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Since the system of Khilafat exists after him, you have to follow the decisions and the instructions of the Khalifa of the time. Here you should not think that the servant or the subordinate has to obey because he is helpless and is obligated to serve. Servants sometimes grumble too. Always keep in mind that although your condition is that of a servant, it is really much higher because it is a bond of brotherhood and acknowledgement of obedience for the sake of Allah the Almighty that comes with the pledge of sacrifice. The reward for sacrifice is received only if the sacrifice is offered with pleasure. This condition is such that the more one thinks about it, the deeper one submerges oneself in the love of the Promised Messiah (as) and the more one will find oneself bound by the organization of the Jama‘at.

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 06/06/14 - Unconditional Obedience to Khilafat

‘Do they then not look at the camel, how it is created? And at the heaven, how it is raised high? And at the mountains, how they are firmly rooted? And at the earth, how it is spread out?’ (88:18-21) Hazrat Khalifatul Masīh (aba) recited the above verses and gave a discourse on obedience in the today’s Friday sermon. The Promised Messiah (as) has elucidated obedience of Prophet- hood and Imamat (spiritual leadership) of the time with reference to these verses. He has made what may appear to be an odd connection between the camel and obedience of Prophet-hood and Imamat. However, the deep and profound spiritual significance of the Promised Messiah’s (as) words tells us that there are several words for the camel in Arabic but the specific word stated in the verse above is a plural noun and this signifies that God intends to explain cultural and communal traits of the camel here. The camel has a great sense of obedience. Camels walk/travel in a long line and are led by an experienced camel in the front. The rest follow him at the same speed and none has any designs or aspiration to walk abreast with the one leading them, like other animals do, for example horses. Therefore in the first verse God has used the specific Arabic word for the camel to draw attention to its communal bearing of travelling in one long line and has thus laid emphasis on the need for an Imam to maintain unity. The significance of camels travelling in a line is that an Imam is needed to negotiate the journey of life and to avoid going astray. The camel is not negligent about making long journeys in the sense that it stores water. Similarly true believers should be mindful and ready for their journey of life and keep provisions and the best provision of life is righteousness.

We have been enabled to accept the Promised Messiah (as) in this age and after him the system of Khilafat has been granted to us, which we should value and try to understand its essence. The Promised Messiah (as) had said that people who will take Bai’at in his name will continue to come, thus the direct link of Khilafat is with him. The Promised Messiah’s (as) explanation of the verse above clearly shows that spiritual development and permanence of those who take his Bai’at is in staying connected to Khilafat. Progress of the Jama’at is also in staying connected to Khilafat, it facilitates facing satanic attacks.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 76 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

The Holy Prophet (saw) said that an Imam is like a shield. Indeed, safety is behind the shield alone. And being behind the shield means perfect obedience. The Holy Prophet (saw) also said that whoever obeyed his Amir obeyed him and whoever disobeyed his Amir, disobeyed him. The Holy Qur’an also commands obedience in several places and it is indeed the secret for communal success and is a point that members of the Jama’at need to understand a great deal. Some question why do we have certain limits and do not have freedom in certain matters. Ahmadis should remember that Islam allows everything that is justifiable. The limits maintained are for moral correction, moral development and unity. Huzoor addressed Jama’at office-holders and said that if they wish to assist in the progress of the Jama’at then they need to understand the concept of obedience more than anyone else! If all office-holders on all levels understood the concept of obedience, the members of the Jama’at would inevitably understand it. Everyone would appear as the straight line of travelling camels. Amirs, Sadrs and other office-holders should self-reflect over their standards of obedience and ponder how they respond to any instruction of the Khalifa of the time. Do they obey instantly or do they construe their own meanings of what is instructed? Some office-holders act upon instructions received from the Khalifa of the time but with some hesitation. This does not signify obedience. Obedience is when something is followed instantly. Indeed, it is fine to have your own opinion; however when the Khalifa of the time decides upon something, then one must overlook one’s opinion.

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib used to say that he held many opinions and also shared them with the Khalifa of the time. However, if his opinion was not accepted, then he did not even think about it and demonstrated perfect obedience. Perfect obedience alone will help us attain the level enjoined by God and His Messenger (saw). One who takes Bai’at should instill this thinking and should prove it through practice. More than anyone else, this standard of obedience should be exhibited by office-holders from the top level to the bottom.

SECTION I ACTIVITY

The tenth condition requires us to pledge a bond of brotherhood with the Promised Messiah (as). What are the specifications of this ‘bond’ and what actions must we take in order to fulfill these?

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Memorize all ten conditions of Bai’at and teach them to your children.  Keep a list of the conditions of Bai'at where you can refer to them easily.

SECTION II STRENGTHENING OUR PRACTICE

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 10/11/2013 - Strive to Fulfill the Conditions of Baiat

Delivering his Friday sermon from Melbourne, Australia, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih (aba) related that the Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘I was sent to strengthen faith and prove the existence of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 77 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

God to people because the spiritual state of every nation has greatly weakened and the Hereafter is considered mere fables. Every person’s practice shows that he definitely does not have the belief and reliance on Allah the Exalted and the Hereafter as the certainty he has about the world and its pomp and circumstance and the reliance he has on worldly ways and means. Tongues utter a lot but hearts are overcome by love of the world. This is the very state in which Jesus (as) found the Jews and as is the wont of those of weakened faith, the moral condition of the Jews had much deteriorated and love of God had cooled off. It is the same condition in my time and I have been sent so that the age of truth and belief returns and Taqwa (righteousness) is instilled in hearts. These matters are the ultimate cause of my being. I have been told that having become distant, the heavens will come closer to the Earth once again.’

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih (aba) said that those of us who claim to be in the Bai’at of the Promised Messiah (as) need to self-analyze as to how much are we fulfilling the objective of his advent. He said that he had come to strengthen faith, therefore we need to analyze if our faith is inclined towards being strengthened. He said faith is strengthened by perfect belief in God, but there is too much reliance on worldly resources. Today reliance on God has become secondary while the importance of worldly people and worldly matters has become foremost. We find this to be the situation when we look around. We need to look around not to see if the world relies more on worldliness, rather we need to analyze ourselves whether we rely more on worldly sources. If we have not recognized the Being of God, as it is due, even after taking Bai’at, then it is of no value to call ourselves Ahmadi. If today we please our worldly masters more than God, then we do not fulfill the objective of the advent of the Promised Messiah (as). Do we give preference to worldly rituals over faith?

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘There is verbal professing deeming God above all, but actions show that hearts are overwhelmed by love of the world.’ It can be seen all around, among Muslims as well as non-Muslims that love of the world, idle pursuits and indecency has greatly pushed back remembrance of God. Owing to love of God, Muslims are enjoined to pray five times a day; however it is different in practice. Ahmadis need to first self-analyze themselves whether they are striving to observe Salat according to the commandment of God or not. If not, then we are negating the claim of the Promised Messiah (as) that the objective of his advent was to strengthen faith in God, to bring heaven closer to the Earth. Indeed, deficiency of our faith and practices does not negate the claim of the Promised Messiah (as) per se, but it deprives us of the blessings associated with him and it leaves our claims as mere verbal professing. Rather than scrutinize the state of others’ faith, each Ahmadi needs to analyze himself as to how much is he fulfilling his pledge of Bai’at and the objective of the Promised Messiah (as) and is doing good works and up to what extent is he fulfilling the covenant of giving precedence to faith over worldly matters.

The Promised Messiah (as) stipulated ten conditions of Bai’at. He said that anyone wishing to be part of his Community should keep a strong bond with him and fulfill the ten conditions. Many a time the Promised Messiah (as) advised us, stressing the point with great pathos that if those who associate themselves with him do not instill distinct change for the better after becoming

Lajna Ima'illah USA 78 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Ahmadis, then there is no difference between them and the others. We should strive to attain the standard that the Promised Messiah (as) expected of us.

The Promised Messiah (as) advised his followers thus: The benefit of Bai’at is not ritualistic. Such a Bai’at does not have blessings. One can only attain the blessings of Bai’at when one progresses spiritually and connects with love and sincerity to the one on whose hand Bai’at has been taken. It is most important to develop these connections. If a seeker does not develop these connections and does not make efforts then any complaint by him is pointless. Connection of love and sincerity should be developed as much as possible and one should imbibe the tenor of the one on whose hand Bai’at was taken in practice and in creed. One should swiftly turn to honesty and worship of God and hold oneself accountable from morning till evening!

The Promised Messiah (as) said not to assume that God is pleased merely by one’s taking of Bai’at. Taking Bai’at is only the outer shell while the core/kernel is within. He said one’s condition should not be like eggs which have no yolk or white and which are discarded. One should scrutinize oneself whether one is mere shell or is there a kernel within!

After taking Bai’at one should develop one’s faith as well as love of God and borne of this love of God one should develop love of His beloved Prophet (saw) and the Promised Messiah (as), Khilafat and love for each other.

The Promised Messiah (as) said that high standard of obedience should be attained. Obedience does not mean that while one accepts the decisions of the Khalifa of the time and the administration of the Jama’at, which suit one, but objects to other decisions that do not suit. If one claims to have taken Bai’at then one should demonstrate perfect obedience. The claim of following the person whose Bai’at is taken and of being a Muslim is only real when one also professes that everything one has belongs to God and is for His religion. Indeed, taking Bai’at signifies selling oneself!

The Promised Messiah (as) once advised a friend that change is essential after taking Bai’at and if no change is inculcated then the act is tantamount to deriding Bai’at. In fact only that person takes Bai’at whose previous life goes through a death and who starts a new life after taking Bai’at.

……… The Promised Messiah (as) said that it is obligatory that man stays in such a state that even angels shake hand with him. He said after coming into his Bai’at one should be ever in awe of God’s majesty, which would help remove sins. He said if one was to remain worldly there was no use in repenting on his hand, because repenting on his hand demands a kind of death so that a new life and a new birth is attained. Indeed, only sincere Bai’at was of any consequence. He said God wants heart-felt declaration from his Bai’at. One who accepts the Promised Messiah (as) with sincerity of heart is forgiven by the Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful God, and the person becomes like a newborn and the angels protect him. The Promised

Lajna Ima'illah USA 79 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

Messiah (as) advised his followers that once they accepted him they should begin to live their lives in a completely new way.

The Promised Messiah (as) said: ‘The reality of Bai’at should be fully understood and it should be implemented. And the reality of Bai’at is that the one who takes Bai’at instills sincere change and fear of God and having recognized the real objective, demonstrates a pure example. Failing this, there is no benefit in taking Bai’at. On the contrary, such a Bai’at would be a greater source of chastisement, because to knowingly disobey after making a covenant is extremely hazardous.’

The Promised Messiah (as) also said: ‘Taking Bai’at signifies being aware of the reality of Bai’at. Someone takes Bai’at in person by placing hand over hand but does not understand its real objective or does not care. His Bai’at is useless and it has no significance in God’s sight. Another person sitting thousands of miles away takes Bai’at with sincerity of heart and after accepting the reality and objectives of Bai’at, he implements what he has declared, and reforms his practices. This person is a thousand times better than the one who took Bai’at directly but did not implement it.’

SECTION II ACTIVITY

Conduct an interactive activity (workshop, panel discussion, presentation) on “What is the real purpose of taking Bai’at?” Discuss whether or not we are striving our utmost to reform our lifestyle per the teachings of the Promised Messiah (as), including obedience to Khilāfat through Nizame Jamā‘at.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES  Aim to listen to the current Friday sermon as a family and discuss the contents together, focusing on obedience to the Khalifa.  Continue to memorize all the conditions of Bai'at; each week select one condition and work on improving your implementation of it.

SECTION III REFORMATION THROUGH THE MODEL OF THE HOLY PROPHET (SAW)

EXCERPT FROM SUMMARY OF SERMON DELIVERED BY HAZRAT KHALIFATUL MASIH V (ABA) 08/17/2012 - Obedience to The Prophet (saw) Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) recited the following verses at the start of Friday sermon today: ‘Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model, for him who fears Allah and the Last Day and who remembers Allah much.’ (33:22) ‘Say, ‘if you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults. And Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful.’(3:32)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 80 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

In order to become the recipient of Divine grace, favours and blessings, God has taught to become His Abd (servant), those who follow His commandments. Last Friday’s sermon mentioned that by following God’s commandments one comes into the category of true Abd. For this purpose God has sent numerous instructions so that we can become corroborators of ‘…So they should hearken to Me and believe in Me…’ (2:187) and gain the pleasure of being a true Abd and experience acceptance of prayers. Although there are numerous Qur’anic commandments to attain this objective, but human nature is such that it is more influenced by practical example. When one claims to love someone, one tries to adopt every practice of the beloved. When faith is included in this love one wishes to please the beloved as well as secure one’s faith. We are fortunate to be included in the Ummah of the Holy Prophet (saw) who was an exemplar of all the Qur’anic commandments, presenting a perfect and blessed model. The aforementioned verses draw attention to this subject and command that a Muslim claiming to have faith will accomplish faith and will gain nearness to God when he or she follows the blessed model of the Prophet (saw). Without following his blessed model it is pointless to hope for the Hereafter, without it piety cannot be called piety, worship is not worship. Without following his blessed model, Zikr (remembrance of God) cannot reach that stage from which one gains nearness to God, salvation from sin is not possible without it and one cannot partake of God’s Raheemiyyat (Divine quality of being Merciful) and one cannot attain God’s love. He was the most beloved person of God and if he is not followed, one cannot attain God’s love either. Fortunately, we are Muslims but we will only derive the beneficence of being a part of the Ummah when we will try to walk in the footsteps of the Holy Prophet (saw). He made it very clear that God’s nearness and love cannot be attained by following steps, which he did not practice. In the current age, it is the favour of his true and ardent devotee, the Promised Messiah (as) that he has guided us to understand and indeed practice the true example of the Holy Prophet (saw). He informed us that some new innovations of worship which are not to be seen in the blessed model of the Holy Prophet (saw) cannot attain nearness to God because in order to attain nearness to God it is essential to follow the Prophet’s blessed model. Before presenting examples of the blessed model of the Holy Prophet (saw), which is guidance in becoming a true Abd, here is what the Promised Messiah (as) wrote about the status of the Holy Prophet (saw). He wrote: ”Say: O my servants who have committed excesses against your own selves despair not of the mercy of Allah; surely Allah will forgive all sins. [39:54]. In this verse, instead of: O servants of Allah, the Holy Prophet [saw] was commanded to say: O my servants. This verse was revealed in this form so that God Almighty might convey the good news of limitless mercies and might comfort those who are broken-hearted in consequence of their sins. Thus, Allah the Glorious desired to exhibit a sample of His mercies and to make it manifest to what extent He honours His faithful servant with special favours. By adopting the form: Say: O my servants; God in effect said: Look at My beloved Messenger and see at what high rank he has arrived through his perfect obedience to Me that now all that is Mine is his. He who desires salvation should become his servant. That is to say, he should obey him so perfectly as if he was his slave. Then

Lajna Ima'illah USA 81 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8 whatever sins he might have committed will be forgiven him. The word ‘abd in Arabic idiom also means slave as it is said: ‘…even a believing slave is better than an idolater…’ [2:222] In the verse to which we have drawn attention, it is indicated that he who desires salvation should establish the relationship of a slave with this Prophet. That is to say, he should not step outside his commandment and should consider himself bound to his obedience as a slave is bound and he would then obtain salvation. One pities those benighted souls who bear such rancour towards the Holy Prophet [saw] that they consider that names like Ghulam Nabi, Ghulam Rasul, Ghulam Mustafa, Ghulam Ahmad and Ghulam Muhammad, amount to associating the Holy Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be on him] with God, whereas the verse indicates that these names are a means of salvation. As ‘abd implies that a person so named should refrain from every kind of freedom and self-direction and should be completely obedient to his master, therefore, the seekers after truth have been urged that if they wish to attain salvation they should adapt themselves to this condition. This verse has the same connotation as the verse: ‘Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you and forgive you your faults…’ [3:32]. Perfect following demands that devotion and full obedience which is conveyed in the expression ‘abd. The verse: ‘Say: O my servants;’ means in effect: ‘Say: O my followers, who are involved in sins, despair not of the mercy of Allah; for Allah, through the blessing of your following me, will forgive all your sins.’ If the word ‘servants’ in this verse is construed as meaning the servants of Allah, the meaning of the verse is perverted for it cannot be true that God Almighty would forgive all idol worshippers and disbelievers without their believing in and following the Holy Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be on him]. Such an interpretation would be contrary to the express directions of the Holy Qur’an.” [Essence of Islam Vol. I, pp. 204 – 206] This is glad tiding for that person who obeys the Prophet (saw) and follows him because his perfect following erases the worst of sins. If one truly wishes to become an Abd and beloved of God it is most important to continue to follow the blessed model of the Holy Prophet (saw) rather than follow it at the odd opportunity. The practice of the Holy Prophet (saw) was not limited to any one aspect nor was it specific to Ramadan. According to Hazrat ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) his life was a personification of the Holy Qur’an in all aspects of life. The Promised Messiah (as) also wrote: ‘It should be remembered that the purport of the verse is that those who become the sincere servants of the Holy Prophet [saw] will be bestowed the light, the faith, the love and the passion which will deliver them from all that is beside Allah, and they will be freed from sins and will be bestowed a pure life in this world and they will be delivered from the narrow and dark graves of human passions. This is indicated by the Hadith, that is, I am the resurrector at whose footsteps the dead are raised. The Holy Qur’an is full of the idiom that the world had died and that God Almighty revived it through sending the Holy Prophet [as] as is said: ‘Know that Allah quickens the earth after its death.’ [57:18] In the same way, it is said with reference to the companions of the Holy Prophet [as]: ‘…He has strengthened with inspiration from Himself…’ [58:23]. This means that God helped them with the Holy Spirit. The help of the Holy Spirit is that it revives the hearts, delivers from spiritual death, bestows pure faculties, pure senses and pure knowledge, and carries a person to the station of

Lajna Ima'illah USA 82 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8 nearness to God through certain knowledge and conclusive arguments.’ [Essence of Islam, Vol. I, pp., 206 – 207] This is giving preference to the pleasure of God and this is what the Companions of the Holy Prophet (as) practiced. As a result they were granted spiritual life and pure powers with which they fought Satan. They attained knowledge of the Qur’an and acquired certainty of belief in God and gained His nearness. They achieved all this by following the Holy Prophet (saw) and they gained insight of the assurance of: ‘And as for those who strive in Our path — We will surely guide them in Our ways…’ (29:70).

SECTION III ACTIVITY

Discuss the Holy Prophet (saw)’s love and obedience to Allah Ta'ala. Give examples of his devotion to Allah Ta'ala and Islām, and reflect on how to inculcate the same in your life.

PERSONAL TARBIYAT EXERCISES

 Set aside a time to recite Durud everyday with love in your heart for the Holy Prophet (saw).  Ponder over the beauty of his character and resolve to emulate his qualities.

All praise belongs to Allah, and peace be upon those servants of His whom He has chosen. (Holy Qur'an 27:60)

Lajna Ima'illah USA 83 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook January, February, March 2017 2015 – 2017 Quarter 8

ETIQUETTES AND GUIDELINES

ETIQUETTE OF SALĀT

Before Salāt:  Perform wudhu (ablution) carefully in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Qur'an (5:7) and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (saw). It is important not only for cleanliness, but also helps to clear the mind and make us more aware that we are about to present ourselves to Allah.  As soon as you hear the Adhan, stop what you are doing and go into the prayer area and form lines for Salāt in silence  Do not wait until Iqamat is said to join in the prayer.  In the time between Adhan and Iqamat, remain sitting in the prayer lines to be occupied in Zikre-Ilahi and istighfar. The Holy Prophet (saw) said that a supplication made between Adhan and Iqamat is not rejected.  Worshippers do not stand until the Imām stands and requests the Iqamat be recited Proper Attire for Salāt:  Make sure that you are dressed properly for Salāt  Head and hair must be fully covered with a scarf or dupatta, which should not be see- through. Long hair should be tucked inside, not visible hanging below the head covering.  Cover your arms to the elbow; if you are wearing short sleeves then keep your coat on during Salāt. Legs must be covered to the ankles.  Shirts worn over pants must be long enough so that when you perform sajdah, the back of the shirt comes down far enough to cover your whole posterior. T-shirts or hip-length shirts are not long enough and should not be worn. Salāt Rows:  Start the rows for Salāt from the middle, (behind the Imam) and begin a new row when the previous row is filled.  Stand close together so that you are “shoulder to shoulder”. Do not put purses and bags in- between sisters, as that creates gaps.  Keep your rows straight. Many prayer halls have carpeting with marked Salāt lines and in order to keep “shoulder to shoulder”, stand with your heels on the line. Chair Etiquette:  Sisters on chairs must remain seated during the entire Farz (obligatory) Salāt to maintain unity and the integrity of the row. You may stand for qiyam in Sunnah or nawafil, if you wish.  Place chairs in rows in a separate section from the worshippers on the floor, either at the side or in the back. Single chairs should not be placed among worshippers on the floor as this disrupts the unity of the row.  There should be no gaps on the chairs; sisters should sit “shoulder to shoulder” on the chairs.  If you wish to sit on a chair during the sermon, but pray on the floor, sit at the end so a gap is not left when you get up.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 84 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

Mothers with Young Children:  If you have young children, please stand in the last rows and make sure your children are with you throughout the Salāt  Children must not be allowed to run in the rows, or in any part of the prayer area.  If your child is noisy during Salāt, whether he/she is laughing or crying, please take your child out of the prayer area immediately. You may complete your prayer later but do not allow the prayers of others to be disturbed After Salāt  When you have completed your Salāt, please remain occupied in Zikre-Ilahi until everyone has finished.  When Zikre-ilahi is completed, and you wish to talk to someone, leave the prayer area so as not to disturb those who are still praying.

GUIDELINES FOR PURDAH AND MODESTY Purdah Is:  For both men and women.  To keep one’s gaze lowered.  To avoid watching inappropriate programs on TV or live on the stage.  To avoid listening to foul language, inappropriate music, and refrain from idle conversation.  To not attract the opposite gender by looks, conversation, and tone.  To protect and respect women and not to oppress them. Purdah outside/ at work/ at school  Lajna members should avoid double standards: observe the same levels of purdah in public whether going to the Mosque or somewhere else.  Minimum Purdah means:  A secure scarf with a long coat should always be worn when going outside; the scarf alone is not enough. This is the recommended minimum purdah and no one should make his/her own definition of purdah.  The coat should be loose fitting, knee-length or longer with full-sleeves  The head covering should cover forehead, chin and hair, front and back.  No make-up should be worn. If make-up is worn, then the lower face must also be covered.  The coat and head coverings should not be decorative, embroidered or transparent. A dupatta may not be substituted for a scarf.  Immodest fashions should be avoided: e.g. tight or form-fitting clothes, skinny jeans with short tops, capris, tight pants, or leggings worn under dresses with high side slits; dresses with see-through sleeves or deep necklines. T-shirts, blouses or short tops with pants should not be worn even in the home.  Showing-off fashions should not be for routine trips out of the home; it should only be in family gatherings or in women-only functions.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 85 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

 Hats as part of a uniform are only permitted if worn over scarf/hijab, otherwise Ahmadi Muslim women should not work at places where hats only are permitted.  Students in school should keep a a little separate from the opposite gender, not be involved in personal discussions or exchange contact information with each other to stay in touch.  If girls are not allowed to wear a scarf in the classroom, they should cover their heads as soon as they come out of the classroom.  Video chatting, sharing pictures on social networks, and chatting with an unknown person is very harmful and must be avoided.  Boys and girls should not shake hands with each other.

Jama’at Gatherings  In Jama’at meetings where men are also present, Lajna members should not recite poems, do speeches or engage in lengthy discussions, even if they are in a separate hall.  Lajna members can give presentations in Lajna meetings.  There should be separate seating arrangements for men and women in Jama’at tabligh events, including AMSA, AMSAW etc. If for some reason they have to be in the same hall, separate areas for refreshments must be provided.

General Recommendations  Husbands should not ask their wives to relax their purdah or wear immodest clothes. If they do ask, respectfully take a stand for your religious right because this demand is against the teachings of the Holy Qur’an.  Men and women should not sit together when visiting each other’s houses even if women are wearing coat and hijab. Office-holders must be more careful about this.  Ahmadi Muslim women should join women-only gyms or health clubs. Wear modest, loose fitting clothing with full-sleeves and a scarf. Dancing in the name of exercise should be avoided.  Mothers should teach their daughters to wear modest clothes in front of their father and brothers. Also teach your sons about modest dress and respect for sister’s modesty.  Mothers should dress children from 3-4 years old modestly, so that the whole body is covered so that they can be used to modest clothing.  Only real brothers are your brothers, there is no concept of “considering someone like a brother” in Islām, so purdah should be observed from all non-family men.  Ahmadi Muslim women should also avoid keeping company with immodest women.  Women who are office-holders must observe purdah in line with the teachings of the Holy Qur'an. The office-holder‘s forehead and hair from the back should be completely covered as is the commandment of the Holy Qur'an. Her body should not be on display. If she is acting on this then fine; if not, then no matter how efficient she is, if her purdah is not up to standard, she cannot be appointed an office-holder.

[Guidelines taken from the Sermons of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba)]

Lajna Ima'illah USA 86 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

ETIQUETTE FOR RISHTA NA’ATA (SPOUSE SELECTION PROCESS) IN ISLĀM- A GUIDE FOR PARENTS

 Begin with absolute trust in Allah, sincere prayer & an open heart; start praying for the blessings of a good match from when children are born.  As Hazrat Mir Nāsir Nawwab (ra) [father of Hazrat Amman Jan (ra)] said: …“since this daughter of mine was born, I have never missed a namaz (prayer) in which I have not prayed: O Allāh Almighty, whichever man is most agreeable and suitable in Your eyes, make my daughter’s marriage knot with him.’”  Gently introduce the concept of the Islāmic marriage system to children as they approach adolescence, encouraging them to pray for themselves. Keep discussions open so that when the time comes, they are clear on what to expect, i.e. consent of both parties, no option of courtship prior to marriage, strong communication & trust between parents & children, marriage is a lifetime commitment….  Remind children often of these Ahadith: Marriage is my precept and my practice. Those who do not follow my practice are not of me. (Ibn Majah) When a man has married he has completed one half of his religion. (Mishkat)  Go into the process with a clear & correct intention- fully immersed in Taqwa. Remember “deeds are judged by motives” marriage is no exception.  Have “tawaqul-Allah” (trust in Allah Ta'ala).  Maintain Islāmic boundaries of modesty, respect & confidentiality throughout the process (& beyond)  Do not assume you know every single like or dislike of your child; ask, listen carefully, guide patiently  Present your child in an accurate, positive light – this goes for everything from appearance to speech. Be real & sincere, never misleading, about family, education, finances, health etc.  Remember, your child is marrying a person, not a set of data, so learn about others in a way that is personable, not mechanical. This is easier sometimes in a group setting, with trusted & sensitive family members present who can advise as needed.  Don’t rely on one pre-conceived ideal for a spouse. Be open to different people & don’t refuse to meet or talk with someone simply because they don’t fit your image of the “perfect partner” for your child.  Perhaps a candidate isn’t as tall/thin/ fair/smart/rich as you envisioned. No human being is perfect. Look at piety, modesty & the habits of his/her family; his/her employment and place of abode are less important factors.  Remind your child that physical appearance, including theirs, changes over time. If a person’s Taqwa & good character are predominant over physical attributes, have faith that an attraction can develop without one even realizing it; thus appearance becomes much less important.  Be kind, not over-judgmental; the blessings of time & maturity can, and do, bring about self- improvement. After all, your child is probably not perfect either!  Deciding whom to marry is not a decision to be rushed. It doesn’t always have to take a long time (though procrastination is unfair to the other party) but due diligence is needed to

Lajna Ima'illah USA 87 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

investigate thoroughly, to engage your brain fully in the decision & to pray sincerely for guidance.  The Holy Prophet (saw) taught his companions to seek counsel with Allah when making a decision- Salatul Istikhara is invaluable. Pre-marital counseling is also required for the prospective couple (available through Jama'at Rishta Nata Department).  Post-marriage- it’s easy to criticize & judge; put yourself in your new daughter’s/ son’s place & refrain from constantly voicing your opinion. Remind yourself you were once that newly- wed, nervous person.  In essence, treat your new daughter / son the exact same way you want others to treat your child  Islam advocates simplicity in all gatherings; weddings are no exception.  Please see ‘Wedding Celebration Guidelines’ at link below: http://www.lajnausa.net/web/webfiles/tarbiyat/Wedding%20Celebration%20guidelines%20Fi nal.pdf  Visit www.rishtanata.us for more information about this department that was initiated by the Promised Messiah(as)

GUIDELINES FOR MARRIAGE IN ISLĀM

All marriages require vast stores of patience, kindness, humility, sacrifice, empathy, love, understanding, forgiveness, hard work, and endless prayers! Give it your best-it’s well worth the investment!  Pray together at every possible opportunity. Pray sincerely for one another; remind each other often that the goal, individually and together, is to win Allah’s pleasure.  Be ever mindful of the comfort, the health and the feelings of your spouse; smile often.  Safeguard the respect and honor of your spouse at all times; careless lapses in speech or action could affect your marriage adversely in the long run.  Maintain behavior that is conducive to household peace and tranquility; learn to compromise, show tolerance and how to express yourself- don’t expect mind reading skills from your spouse.  Act as guardians of one another’s property; be content and grateful for all Allah’s bounties – as long as your spouse is providing for all reasonable needs according to his means, do not make excessive demands on him.  Whether both spouses are working outside the home or not, each should be fully aware of the household finances.  Make your spouse your main confidante, rather than your friends. Mutual trust is crucial in building a secure relationship. Be a good listener; give the most honest advice.  Consult one another in all important family matters and handle the outcome graciously, even if you have to agree to disagree. Whatever is best for your marriage and for the family unit is what is most important, not the need to be right.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 88 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

 No one likes to feel taken for granted or dismissed. Take time to show appreciation for what your spouse does for the family. Make time for each other, even with hectic schedules.  Try not to allow the luxury of familiarity over time make you lazy about your physical appearance in front of your spouse; the effort will not go unnoticed.  Always be inclined to overlook the minor shortcomings of your spouse and be generous in forgiving and forgetting- re-examine your own weaknesses first. Aim to resolve conflicts quickly; do not let negativity fester. Once resolved, do not regurgitate past problems.  Treat relatives of both sides equally, no matter how different their ways may be to yours; your efforts will strengthen mutual respect and affection.  Getting married should mean something, primarily that you are willing to do whatever it takes to ensure spending the rest of your lives together. Don’t start packing bags at the first sign of discord; view marriage as a lifelong, sacred relationship & you’ll feel more committed to making it work. Don’t let trifles lead to situations where tempers are lost and threats of divorce are pronounced. Put issues into perspective realistically, and pray; if major conflict still exists, seek confidential professional / spiritual guidance from reliable sources.  In essence, dispense with selfishness, and always treat your spouse the way you would like to be treated. Follow this rule & your marriage will have a greater chance for success. Ignore this rule & turmoil or even, God Forbid, permanent failure, could be around the corner

References / Sources for Marriage and Rishta Na’ata  www.alislam.org  www.askislam.org  www.rishtanata.us  Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) - An Inspiration for Us All-Munavara Ghauri  Power point of Rishtā Na’ata program, Detroit, MI, April 20, 2014  https://www.alislam.org/library/links/00000137.html-from Review of Religions, Nov. 1992

ETIQUETTE OF WEDDING CELEBRATIONS

Mehndi  Mehndi function can be held if desired but is not obligatory. It should be held in the bride’s home and be limited to bride’s female relatives and close friends. If the home is very small, permission may be requested to rent a space.  Mehndi function should be kept simple and money should not be wasted on:  Celebrations held on several days well before the wedding day.  Different decoration of stage and bride’s seating for each day.  A large variety of foods.  Printed invitation cards just for Mehndi party.  Expensive and excessive clothing for the bride, groom, and other family members.  Only female members of groom’s family may be invited.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 89 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

 The selection of songs to be sung by the bride’s friends should be decent and avoid coarse language. The songs should not promote concept of “shirk” (association of someone with Allah) or concepts of other religions.  Similar functions in the name of ‘ronaq’ from the groom’s side are very strongly discouraged.  The bride’s family provides the mehndi. The bringing of mehndi by the groom’s family is a Hindu custom and should be avoided.  Absolutely no dancing is allowed in any function.

Rukhsati (Wedding reception)  Purdah must be strictly observed with separate seating areas for men and women.  Money should NOT be wasted on:  Expensive and fancy bridal dresses for the purpose of showing off or to impress others.  Expensive wedding invitations, excessive decoration of the house, stage, and bride’s seating.  Large variety of foods.  Playing songs or music is not permitted.  Any ring given to groom should not be made of gold.  Giving milk to drink to the groom and hiding his shoes to demand money from him should be avoided; this is a Hindu custom.  Only a female photographer/videographer is permitted on the women’s side. Men should not come to the women’s side for this purpose if non-family women are present.  Non-family men are not allowed to videotape at family events.  The groom and his male friends/relatives should not be called to the women’s side when purdah-observing women are present. An announcement should be made so they can put on their purdah.  Women servers only should be used on women’s side. This arrangement can be done before hand when the caterer is being selected.  At the time of Rukhsati (the bride departs with the groom) prayers should be offered instead of songs.  The bride should observe purdah when she arrives and when she leaves with her husband. A large chador can be used for coverage.  The Holy Qur’an should never be held over bride’s head to have her walk under it at the time of Rukhsati.  Money should not be wasted on rental of expensive cars or limousines.  Showing off the Jahaiz (things given to the bride by her parents) should not be practiced.  Gifts, money, or any form of Jahaiz from bride’s family should not be expected or demanded by groom’s family  Giving gifts to the groom’s family or relatives from bride’s family just to follow a custom should not be practiced.

Walimah  The same guidelines as for wedding reception should be followed.  Mixed gatherings are never allowed.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 90 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

 It is a Sunnah (practice) of the Holy Prophet (saw) to serve food at the Walimah, but it is not necessary that it should be a lavish feast or on a large scale.  The scale of the Walimah should be according to one’s own means.  The bride’s family should not be asked to contribute to the Walimah as it is responsibility of the groom’s family.

General Recommendations for Weddings  Wedding is a time of happiness thus appropriate celebration is recommended but no ostentation  Prayers should be offered more than anything for the new couple.  Taqwa and simplicity should be the top priority. Wastage of money on any occasion for the purpose of showing off or to impress others should be avoided in every event.  Bid’at (innovations) from non-Islamic cultures must be avoided. These include:  Gift registry  Bridal showers  Requesting “no boxed” gifts i.e. requesting monetary gifts only  Father walking bride into women’s side or bridegroom receiving bride in women’s side when non-family women are present  Bride and groom cutting cake together when non-family women are present.  Mixed gatherings are never permitted in any function. Purdah should always be observed.  Dancing in any event is not allowed.

[Guidelines taken from the Sermons of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba)]

GUIDELINES FOR TARBIYAT OF CHILDREN

21. Remember that a child is a gift from Allah Ta'ala who is in your care. Show your gratitude to Him by doing your utmost to raise the child with love for Allah. If you give your child a deep and abiding faith in Allah, it will be his strength and his light when all else fails. 22. Be regular in your Salat and offer tahajjud to pray for your child. Pray for your child in every Salat, asking Allah constantly for His help in guiding and protecting your child. 23. Teach your child to love Allah Ta'ala, the Holy Prophet (saw), and the Promised Messiah (as), Khalifatul Masih and also to love his fellow beings. 24. Teach your child to be regular in Salat. Strive to offer each Salat in congregation; if not then offer at least two Salat every day in congregation. 25. Always remember that children learn by example. Telling a child something is not teaching him. Keep in mind that children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate. 26. Do not admonish a child all the time. The Promised Messiah (as) would advise his children about righteous ways and would keep a watchful eye on them, but would abstain from petty criticism and constant snubbing. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) also followed this approach. She expressed this attitude in the wise words;

Lajna Ima'illah USA 91 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

"Do not say to a child “listen” all the time, but then when you do say it, then enforce what you say so the child develops the habit of obedience. However, do not bother him all the time." 27. Discipline your child with gentleness and reason. Don't let anger throw you off balance. If he knows you are fair, you will not lose his respect or his love. And make sure the punishment fits the crime. Even the youngest child has a keen sense of justice. 28. Address your child politely and courteously, for a child is a great mimic. If you address it rudely, it will return the compliment in kind. 29. Show your child that you have trust in him. The Promised Messiah (as) had great confidence in his children and never expressed any doubts about them. Consequently, the Promised Messiah’s children always felt too ashamed to ever do anything contrary to his will. More importantly, they never concealed anything from their parents. 30. Teach your child to abhor lying. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) did not stress anything more in her children than “developing a repulsion for deceit”. She insisted that her children must never lie despite fearing the worst consequences. She taught that falsehood is indeed a form of "shirk" (idolatry), because the perpetrator does it out of fear of an individual or punishments, which they perceive as greater than Allah Ta'ala. 31. Remember that a child needs two parents. Present a united front for successful implementation of training your child. 32. Tell the child that it is nice and good. The Holy Prophet -- on him be peace-said: Do not curse a child for when you curse, angels add: Let it be like that; and like that he becomes. Incidentally, this also means that angels are responsible for the consequences of actions. When you tell a child it is bad, it draws an imaginary picture in which it figures itself out as bad and does in fact become bad. Therefore, do not abuse a child. Praise it and teach it to be good. A child should not be allowed to become obstinate. If it persists in being stubborn, its attention should be diverted to something else. 33. Teach your child to admit his mistakes, as a matter of habit. Do not try to hide your own mistakes before your child; be sympathetic when he commits a mistake; let him feel that the mistake is a kind of loss he has suffered. 34. If you need to reprimand your child, do not do it before others; speak to him in private. 35. A child should not be over-indulged. Too much petting or caressing leads to many vices. Do not smother your child with superficial manifestations of "love." The purest and healthiest love expresses itself in day-in, day-out training, which breeds self-confidence and independence. 36. Do not hand your child everything he wants. Teach him the importance of earning a reward; encourage achievement and accomplishment. 37. Teach your child the value of hard work. Let him know a useful life is a blessed one and a life of ease and pleasure-seeking is empty and meaningless. 38. Constantly guide your child in matters of etiquettes. 39. Respect your children. The Promised Messiah (as) would listen to his children as attentively as if they were respected elders of the Community. 40. Pray continuously. Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) emphasized the importance of prayer. She prayed continuously, day and night. Almost every utterance and action became a prayer on Hazrat Amman Jan’s lips. For example, whilst eating with any of her grandchildren she

Lajna Ima'illah USA 92 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017

would put a morsel of food in their mouth uttering; "Oh Allah Almighty, make his/her fortune good”. Also, if one of the children was leaving the house Hazrat Amman Jan (ra) would bid farewell with a prayer; "Go, and may Allah Almighty be your Protector and Helper". She also instructed them to offer the greeting of "Salam", as they entered and left the house [References: “Way of the Seekers” by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II; “Hazrat Amman Jan” by Munavara Ghauri; “Wake up and Smell the Coffee” by Ann Landers]

GUIDELINES FOR TRAINING TODDLERS TO SIT QUIETLY AND BEHAVE IN THE MOSQUE / AT MEETINGS

 Training a toddler to sit still and behave in public begins at home.  Remember that you are in charge of your child, you make the rules; not the other way around!  Practice the following at home when your child is a year old: Sit with your child in your lap. When he starts to wiggle and wants to get down, restrain him gently and keep holding him while talking to him gently. After a few minutes, allow him to get down. Do this regularly, increasing the time before you allow him to get down. Praise him for listening to you and baby will soon understand the concept that he can get down only when you want, not when he wants.  It is harder to control children when other children are not behaving, but do not give up. Advise other mothers to join you in efforts to maintain discipline.  If your child begins to scream or cry, take him outside. Calm him down and return to the meeting. If you allow him to remain outside and play, he will repeat the behavior again.  Hold infants and toddlers in your arms during Salat. If necessary, leave the prayer area with the child and offer your Salat afterwards.  When child is two to three years old, teach them what a mosque is and why quiet behavior is important. Make sure you are setting a good example yourself.  Keep your children next to you at all times. It is your duty to watch them.  When on the way to the mosque or meeting, remind your child of how you expect him to behave and what the consequences for good or bad behavior will be. Follow through and always reward good behavior when you get home from a meeting.  A ‘quiet’ bag can be helpful. Have a bag with coloring book, crayons or small books to keep a preschooler busy, but no musical or noisy toys.  Pray for your child and for all the children of the Jama'at.

Lajna Ima'illah USA 93 Tarbiyat Program Taleem & Tarbiyat Workbook Etiquettes and Guidelines 2015 – 2017