English by the Review of Religions

GazetteAHMADIYYA. Volume 50 - No. 05 - May 2021 CANADA

"He will surely make them successors in the Earth."

(Holy Qur'ān - Al-Nūr: 56) AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE

Syedna Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa said:

“It is the blessing of Khilāfat that lies at the heart of the Jamā‘at. Hence, if you desire life and spirit, become attached to Khilāfat with complete devotion and loyalty, and adhere fully to this institution. For the secret of success to all your undertakings lies with Khilafāt. Let the pleasure of the Khalīfa become your pleasure, and make it your objective to follow in his footsteps and acquire his pleasure.

(Monthly Khalid, Rabwah, March 2004) AḤMADIYYA GAZETTE CANADA An Educational and Spiritual Publication CONTENTS www.ahmadiyyagazette.ca | May 2021 | Volume 50 | No. 05

PEARLS OF WISDOM AḤMADĪYYA MUSLIM JAMĀ‘AT 02 SELECTION FROM THE HOLY QUR’ĀN AND AḤĀDĪTH Canada

AS 03 SO SAID THE PROMISED MESSIAH AMĪR JAMĀ‘AT Lal Khan Malik AA GUIDANCE FROM HAZRAT KHALĪFATUL-MASĪḤ V EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hadi Ali Chaudhary 04 SUMMARY OF FRIDAY SERMONS (MARCH 2021) EDITORS Usman Shahid ARTICLES S. H. Hadi 11 LOVE BETWEEN AḤMADIS AND THE KHALĪFA ASSISTANT EDITOR Amal Yousuf 20 SEVEN RANKS OF SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mubashir Khalid 24 REPORT JALSA MASĪH MAU‘ŪD DAY - VAUGHAN JAMĀ‘AT LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS Maham Aziz 26 PRESS RELEASES COVERPAGES Maham Aziz WEBSITE Kashif bin Arshad

The Editors of the Aḥmadīyya Gazette Canada shall be solely responsible for all errors or omissions contained in the publication herein of the writings of the Promised Messiahas or any of his Successors, as well as the Friday Sermon summaries or other Addresses of Hazrat Mirzā Masroor Aḥmad, Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa. Articles ABBREVIATIONS OF SALUTATIONS published in the Aḥmadīyya Gazette Canada reflect the views of their respective authors sa (Ṣallallāhu ‘alaihī wa Sallam - May peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him!) and may not necessarily reflect the views, Usage: Salutation written after the name of the Holy Prophet Muḥammadsa beliefs and tenets of the Aḥmadīyya Muslim Jamā‘at Canada.

as (Alaīhis-Salām/ ‘Alaihas-Salām - May peace be upon him/her!) Aḥmadīyya Muslim Jamā‘at Canada Inc. sa Usage: Salutation written after names of Prophets other than the Holy Prophet Muḥammad , 10610 Jane Street, Maple, ON L6A 3A2, sa and pious women prior to the era of the Holy Prophet Muḥammad Canada Tel: 905-303-4000 Fax: 905-832-3220 ra (RaḍīAllāhū ‘anhu / ‘anhā/ ‘anhum - May Allāh be pleased with him/her/them!) [email protected] Usage: Salutation written after names of Companions of the Holy Prophetsa and Companions of the Promised Messiahas The official publication of the Aḥmadīyya Muslim Jamā‘at Canada rh (Raḥimahullāh - May Allāh have mercy upon him!) ISSN 0229 5644 Usage: Salutation written after the names of deceased, pious Muslims who are not Companions 1. Aḥmadīyya - Periodicals. I. Aḥmadīyya Movement in Islām Canada. BP195.A34 1972 297.8605-20dc aa (Ayyadahullāhu Ta‘ālā binaṣrihil-‘Azīz - May Allāh be his Helper!) CANADA POST Usage: Salutation written after the name of Hazrat Mirzā Masroor Aḥmad, Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa SECOND CLASS MAIL Mail Registration No: 40026877 PEARLS OF WISDOM

THE HOLY QUR’ĀN

ٰ َ َ َ َ َ ّ ُ ّ ۡ َ ٰ َ ُ ۡ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ ُ ّٰ ٰ َ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ّ ُ ۡ Allāh has promised to those among you who وعد اللہ ال ِذین ا منوا ِمنکم و ع ِملواالص ِلح ِت لیستخ ِلفنھم فِی believe and do good works that He will surely ۡ َ ۡ َ َ ۡ َ َ َّ َ ص َ ّ َ َّ َ ُ َ ُ الارض ک َما ۡاستخلف ال ِذیۡ َن ِم ۡن ق ۡب ِلھ ۡم َول ُی َم ِکنن لھ ۡم ِدیۡنھ ُم make them Successors in the earth, as He made َ ِ َ ِ Successors from among those who were before ّ ۡ َ ٰ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ُ َ ّ َ ّ ُ ۡ ّ ۡ َ ۡ َ ۡ ۡ َ ۡ ً ط َ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ ال ِذی ارتضی لھم ولیب ِد لنھم ِمنم بع ِدخوفِ ِھم امنا یعبدون ِن ۡی them; and that He will surely establish for them ۡ ُ َ ً َ َ ٰ َ َ ُ ٓ َ ۡ ٰ ُ their religion which He has chosen for them; and لَا یُشرکوۡ َن ب ۡی ش ۡیئا ط َو َم ۡن کف َر بَ ۡع َد ذلِک فاولٰئک ُھ ُم الفسقوۡ َن﴿that He will surely give them in exchange security ﴾۲۴ ِ ِ ِ ِ ,and peace after their fear; they will worship Me and they will not associate anything with Me. )سورۃ النور ، Then whoso is ungrateful after that, they will )56 :24 be the rebellious. (24:56)

ٰ َ َ ّ ُ َّ َ ّ َ ٰ ُ َ َّ َ َ ٰ ٰ ُ َ َّ َّ َ ْ َ َ ّ ْ َّ َ َ ْ ٌ َّ ْ ٌ اللھم ص ِل علی محم ٍد و علی ا ِل محم ٍد و بارِک وسلم ِانک ح ِمید م ِجید ḤADĪTH

َ ْ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ ra sa عن نعم ِان بِ ِ ن ب ِش ٍیر ِ ضاہلل تع ٰایل عنہ َعن ح َذیف َۃ ر ِض Ḥazrat Ḥuzaīfa relates that the Holy Prophet ُ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ said that Prophethood shall remain among you اہلل تع ٰایل ع ۡنہ قال قال رس ۡو ل ِاہلل ص َ لاہلل عل ۡی ِہ وسلَم ُ َ َ َ ُ َ َ َ َ َ ُ ُ َ ّ ُ َ َ َ َ ّ َ as long as Allāh wills. He will then bring about its ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ end and follow it with Khilāfat on the precepts of ت ُکن النبوۃ ِفیک ۡم م َاش ٓاءاہلل اَن ت ُکن ثم ی ۡرفَعھااہلل َ ُ ُّ ُ َّ ُ ُ ٌَ َ ُ َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ُ Prophethood for as long as He wills and then bring تعا ٰیل ثم ت ۡکن ِخلفۃ ع ٰل ِم ۡنھ ِاج النبو ِۃ ماش ٓاءاہلل ا ۡن about its end. Then kingship shall follow that and َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ ُّ ُ َّ َ َ َ ُ َ ۡ ۡ ٰ ۡ ۡ ً ً ۡ remain as long as Allāh wills and then come to an ت ُکن ثم یرفَعھااہلل تعایل ثم ت ُکن ملکا عٓا ّضا فَی ُکن end. There shall then be tyranny which shall remain َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ُ َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ ُ َ َ ۡ ً ُ ماش ٓاءاہلل ا ۡن ی ۡکن ثم ی ۡرفع ا ھاہلل تع ٰایل ثم ی ۡکن ملکا as long as Allāh wills and come to an end upon His َ َ َ ُ َ َّ ُ َ ُ َّ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ َ ُ َّ َ ُ ُ ُ decree. There will then emerge Khilāfat on the ً ۡ ۡ ۡ ۡ sa جَِبیَۃ فَی ُکن م َاش ٓاءاہلل اَن یَ ُکن ثم یرفَع ا ھاہلل precepts of Prophethood. Then the Holy Prophet َ ّ َ ُ َ ٌَ ُ ّ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ُ .kept silent تعا ٰیل ثم ت ۡکن ِخلفۃع ٰل ِم ۡنھ ِاج النبوِۃ ثم سکت۔ ََ ُ َّ َ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ َّ ُ َّ ُ َّ َ َ َ )مسند احمد بن حنبل( (Musnad Aḥmad bin Ḥanbal)

2 Aḥmadiyya Gazette SO SAID THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

KHILĀFAT: THE SECOND MANIFESTATION

“This is the way of God. And ever since He created man on earth He has always been demonstrating this divine practice. He helps His Prophetsas and Messengersas and grants them success and predominance, as He says, “Allāh has decreed, ‘Most surely, I will prevail, I and my Messengers’” (58:22). And by predominance is meant that as Messengersas and Prophetsas desire that God’s Hujjat is established in the world and no one is able to oppose it, so, in turn, does God demonstrate with powerful signs their truthfulness as well as the truth they wish to spread in the world. He lets them sow the seed of it [the truth], but He does not let it come to full fruition at their hands. Rather, He causes them to die at such a time as apparently forebodes a kind of failure and thereby provides an opportunity for the opponents to laugh at, ridicule, taunt, and reproach the Prophetsas. And after they have had their fill of ridicule and reproach, He reveals yet another dimension of His Might and creates such means by which the objectives which had to some extent remained incomplete are fully realized.

“Thus, He manifests two kinds of Power. First, He shows the hand of His Power at the hands of His Prophetsas themselves. Second, when with the death of a Prophetas, difficulties and problems arise and the enemy feels stronger and thinks that things are in disarray and is convinced that now this Jamā‘at will become extinct and even members of the Jamā‘at, too, are in a quandary and their backs are broken, and some of the unfortunate ones choose paths that lead to apostasy, then it is that God for the second time shows His mighty power and supports and takes care of the shaken Jamā‘at. Thus, one who remains steadfast till the end witnesses this miracle of God.

“So dear friends! Since it is the Sunnatullāh from time immemorial that God Almighty shows two manifestations so that two false joys of the opponents be put to an end, it is impossible now that God should relinquish His Sunnah. So do not grieve over what I have said to you, nor should your hearts be distressed. For it is essential for you to witness the second manifestation also, and its Coming is better for you because it is everlasting the continuity of which will not end till the Day of Judgement. And that second Manifestation cannot come unless I depart. But when I depart, God will send that second Manifestation for you which shall always stay with you just as promised by God in Barāhīn Aḥmadīyya. And this promise is not for my person. Rather, the promise is with reference to you, as God [addressing me] says: I shall make this Jamā‘at who are your followers, prevail over others till the Day of Judgment. Thus it is inevitable that you see the day of my departure, so that after that day the day comes which is the day of everlasting promise. Our God is He who keeps His promise and is faithful and is the truthful God. He shall show you all that He has promised. Though these days are the last days of this world and there are many disasters waiting to happen, yet it is necessary that this world continues to exist until all those things about which God has prophesied come to pass. I came from God as a manifestation of Mināratul-Masīḥ Divine providence and I am a personification of His Power. And after I am gone, Qadian, India there will be some other persons who will be the manifestation of the second power [of God].

(The Will, pp. 5-8)

3 GUIDANCE FROM HAZRAT KHALĪFATUL-MASĪḤ V (May Allāh be his Helper!)

The following summaries of Friday Sermons have been provided by Wakālat ‘Ulyā’, Taḥrīk Jadīd Anjuman Aḥmadiyya

MEN OF EXCELLENCE : HAZRAT UTHMAN IBN AFFANRA

MARCH 5, 2021

uzooraa said that in the punished for their misdeeds. instead of the abode of peace. The honour context of the rebellion and dignity of the people of Madinah was against Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, By this time Madinah was practically in at risk, hence people carried weapons Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says the hands of the miscreants and they had whenever they left their homes. with reference to Al-Tabari: made Ghāfiqi, the chief of the Egyptian Muhammad bin Abu Bakr, Muhammad bin army, their leader. Ashtar, the chief of When the miscreants stopped the supply HHudhaifah, and ‘Ammār bin Yasir were the the army of Kūfa, and Hakim bin Jabala, of water to the house of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, three men who had joined the miscreants the chief of the army of Basra—the same he sent messages to Hazrat ‘Alira, Hazrat after getting deceived by their words. dacoit whom Hazrat ‘Uthmānra had ordered Talhara and Hazrat Zubairra, as well as to None of the other residents of Madinah or to be imprisoned for looting the properties Ummahāt-ul-Mominīn. Hazrat ‘Alira was Companions of the Holy Prophetsa had any of non-Muslims—worked under Ghāfiqi. the first to respond. He tried to reason sympathy for them. For twenty days, the Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says that the with the miscreant but this had no effect miscreants tried verbally to force Hazrat appointment of Ghāfiqi as leader once on them and they remained adamant that ‘Uthmānra to renounce Khilāfat. Hazrat again proved that the root of this mischief they would not allow even a drop of water ‘Uthmānra tried in every way to make them lay in Egypt where ‘Abdullah bin Saba was to reach Hazrat ‘Uthmānra. This was the see sense. He said, ‘You might be weary operating. Ghāfiqi would lead the prayers answer they gave to the man whom they of me today, but when I am no longer in the Holy Prophet’ssa mosque, while the considered to be the true successor of the with you, you will wish that each day of Companions of the Holy Prophetsa were Holy Prophetsa. It shows that they had not my life could become a year.’ However, confined to their homes or forced to pray left their homes because of their support after twenty days, the miscreants started behind him. Along with the siege of the for Hazrat ‘Alira or love for the family of to realize that they had to do something house of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, the miscreants the Holy Prophetsa, rather they had come very soon, otherwise troops might arrive started harassing other people as well, to fulfil their own selfish desires. from other provinces and they would get so Madinah became a place of conflict

4 Aḥmadiyya Gazette The first among the Ummahātul at the Hajj, the pilgrims decided that they own lives in peril for his sake. This order of Mu’minīn to come was Umm Habibah, would not be deprived of the reward of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra created a division among but the miscreants treated her with great Jihād against the Egyptian miscreants the Companions of the Holy Prophetsa, disrespect. When the news of this spread and their associates. When the miscreants some of whom thought that obeying Hazrat in Madinah, Hazrat ‘‘Ā’īshara immediately learnt of this through their spies, they ‘Uthmānra in this matter would amount to decided to go for Hajj. Some people wanted became frightened. Their fear was further treason. The sons of Hazrat ‘Alira, Hazrat to stop her so that she could help to resolve aggravated when they received the news Talhara and Hazrat Zubairra, as commanded the conflict, but she said, “By God! I by their fathers, continued to camp at cannot risk my honour, for it is the the door of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra. When the honour of the Holy Prophetsa.” rebels gathered a pile of wood in front of Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra door and set it When Hazrat ‘Uthmānra realised that the on fire, the Companions of the Holy miscreants would not be dissuaded with Prophetsa came out wielding swords. mere exhortations, he wrote a letter to This small group of Companions fought all the governors of the provinces. He valiantly against the rebels. Most of also sent a letter to the people who were them were martyred or wounded but going to Makkah for Hajj in which he a small group continued to guard the wrote that the miscreants were engaged door. Huzooraa said he would continue in inciting sedition and were refusing with these accounts next time. to understand that only God could appoint a Khalīfa. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, Huzooraa once again appealed for after clarifying the meaning of Bai‘at prayers for the Aḥmadīs of Pakistan and obedience in the light of the Holy and Algeria. Huzooraa said that cases Qur’ān, explained the illegitimacy of are once again being opened against the demands made by the miscreants. Aḥmadīs in Algeria. May Allāh make things easier for them and remove the Thereafter, the mischief-makers started unwarranted difficulties created by the throwing stones at Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra opponents. Amīn. house at night in order to annoy and provoke him. The Companions of At the end of the sermon, Huzooraa the Holy Prophetsa were not allowed informed the Jamā‘at about the sad ra to gather around Hazrat ‘Uthmān . Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa demise of some devoted members of However, the sons of Hazrat ‘Alira, the Jamā‘at: Hazrat Talhara and Hazrat Zubairra, and that fatwas of Jihād had been issued against some other Companions, guarded his house them in Syria, Kūfa and Basra in response Maulvi Muhammad Najeeb Khan Ṣāib, day and night. Eminent Companions, such to Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra letter. All this caused Nā’ib Nazir Da’wat Ilallāh South India, as Hazrat ‘Alira and Hazrat Sa‘ad bin Abi the miscreants to panic and they tried to Qādiān, passed away on 14th February. Waqāsra, who had a moral influence on the enter the house by force, resulting in a people, spent their time trying to reason fierce fight between the Companions of Nazeer Ahmad Khadim Ṣāib, son of with the dissenters. Hazrat ‘Alira gave up the Holy Prophetsa and the miscreants. Chaudhry Ahmad Din Ṣāib Chatha. He all his activities and tried day and night When Hazrat ‘Uthmānra learnt of this, he was the brother of Munir Bismil Ṣāib, to calm the fury of the enemies of Hazrat forbade the Companions from fighting. Additional Nazir Ishā’at. He passed away ‘Uthmānra and to alleviate his hardship. However, the Companions refused to back on 6th February. down because they believed abandoning A three-thousand-strong army was laying Hazrat ‘Uthmānra in this critical situation Al Hajj Dr Nana Mustafa Boateng Ṣāib siege to the house of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, and was contrary to their pledge of obedience. of Ghana, also known as Al Hajj Chocho, yet he dissuaded the Companions of the passed away on January 17 at the age of Holy Prophetsa from risking their lives Hazrat ‘Uthmānra then took the Companions 70. He served as National Secretary Jā’idād by trying to protect him and his family. of the Holy Prophetsa inside his house and, for 11 years. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra advised them not to after expressing his indifference to the clash with these people. He wanted the material world, urged unity and asked Ghulam Nabi Ṣāib, son of Fazal Din Ṣāib, Companions, who had been blessed with the Companions to return to their homes. of Rabwah, passed away on February 2. He the companionship of the Holy Prophetsa, Hazrat ‘Uthmānra summoned Hazrat ‘Alira, was father of Zia-ur-Rehman Ṣāib Tayyab to be safe so that they would be helpful Hazrat Talhara, Hazrat Zubairra and other who is serving as a missionary in Gabon. in the tribulations that were yet to come. eminent Companions and addressed them in the presence of the miscreants. He Huzooraa prayed that may Allāh have On the other hand, when the heartrending invoked the name of Allāh and urged them mercy on all the deceased and elevate their message of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra was read out and the people of Madinah not to put their spiritual station in heaven. Amīn!

5 MEN OF EXCELLENCE : HAZRAT UTHMAN IBN AFFANRA

MARCH 12, 2021

uzooraa said that Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says that about a year before Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra demise, when the rebels had just started the revolt, Hazrat Amīr Mu’āwiyahra Haccompanied Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to Madinah after performing Hajj and asked Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to accompany him to Syria, lest there should be a sudden uprising with no means to counter it. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra replied that under no circumstances would he leave the proximity of the Holy Prophetsa. Hazrat Amīr Mu’āwiyahra then suggested that he could send a detachment of the Syrian troops to protect him, but Hazrat ‘Uthmānra said that he could not put such a heavy burden on the treasury just to protect his own life. Hazrat Amīr Mu’āwiyahra then made a third suggestion. aa He said that in the presence of the Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ V Companions of the Holy Prophetsa, the miscreants could choose any one of them Hazrat ‘Uthmānra had appointed Hazrat someone always stood guard at Hazrat to take the place of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra; ‘Abdullah bin Zubairra to guard the door of ‘Uthmān’sra door, broke into his house by therefore, the Companions should be his house. He told him, “No one should put climbing the wall of a neighbour’s house. At spread to different countries. To this, his own life at risk for me.” Hazrat Muṣleh that time Hazrat ‘Uthmānra was reciting the Hazrat ‘Uthmānra said, “How can it be Mau‘ūdra wrote: Prior to Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra Holy Qur’ān. At first, Muhammad bin Abu that I scatter the people whom the Holy martyrdom, the miscreants knew that Bakr grabbed Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra beard and Prophetsa had gathered?” Hazrat Amīr they had the upper hand. Therefore, shook it violently. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra said to Mu’āwiyahra wept upon hearing this and as a last resort, they sent someone to him: “O, son of my brother! If your father asked Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to at least declare Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to persuade him to were alive, you would have never done that if any harm was done to him, Hazrat renounce his Khilāfat. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra such a thing.” Hearing this, Muhammad Amīr Mu’āwiyahra would have the right categorically refused to do so. When this bin Abu Bakr withdrew in embarrassment. to seek retribution, so that people may person returned, he said to his people Then another man hit Hazrat ‘Uthmānra on refrain from any mischief. But Hazrat that they had no option but to kill Hazrat the head with an iron rod and kicked away ‘Uthmānra said, “Mu’āwiyah! What must ‘Uthmānra but it was not at all lawful for the Holy Qur’ān that was in front of Hazrat happen shall happen. I cannot do as you them to do so. ‘Uthmānra. The Holy Qur’ān landed close ask because you are of a fierce nature and to Hazrat ‘Uthmānra and drops of blood you might be harsh to the Muslims.” Upon When the miscreants were planning to fell on it. The verse on which his blood this, Hazrat Amīr Mu’āwiyahra got up with assassinate Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, Hazrat was spread contained a mighty prophecy; tears in his eyes and said that this might ‘Abdullah bin Salāmra exhorted them not َ ۡ َ ُ ُ ّٰ ُ ُ َّ ُ ۡ َ ُ ف َس َیک ِف ۡیکہم اللہ َو ہوَ الس ِم ۡیع الع ِل ۡیم !be their last meeting. to commit this crime. He said, “Remember The guardians of Madinah at this time are Hazrat ‘Uthmānra summoned ‘Abdullah bin the angels. If you kill ‘Uthmānra, the angels Allāh will surely take your revenge from Salām. When ‘Abdullah asked him about will leave Madinah.” Instead of taking heed them, for He is All-Hearing, All-Knowing the fitna, Hazrat ‘Uthmānra said, “Refrain from this exhortation, the vicious people (2:138). from fighting. This will be stronger in your taunted him for being the son of a Jew. favour.” Hazrat Zaid bin Thabit Ansārira Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says that these Then a man named Sodān struck him with presented himself before Hazrat ‘Uthmānra people had forgotten that their own leader, a sword and severed his hand. Hazrat and said, “Ansār are present at the door. ‘Abdullah bin Saba, was not only the son ‘Uthmānra said, “By God! This hand was If you like, we are ready to become Ansār of a Jew but was himself a Jew and only the first one to write the Holy Qur’ān.” (Helpers) of Allāh for the second time.” pretended to be a Muslim. When Sodān struck a second blow, Hazrat But Hazrat ‘Uthmānra said, “There must ‘Uthmān’sra wife Naila tried to intervene be no fighting!” The miscreants, having realized that and the blow severed some of her fingers.

6 Aḥmadiyya Gazette The third blow caused Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to lose consciousness, after which the miscreant strangled him until his soul departed the body.

Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says that these people did not stand for any noble cause. Some of them were enamoured with the bizarre and un-Islāmic teachings of ‘Abdullah bin Saba, the Jew. Some were fascinated with extreme socialism and even Bolshevism. Others were convicted criminals, looters and pillagers. Even when Hazrat ‘Uthmānra lay in pain, they uttered obscenities about his wife and about Hazrat ‘Ā’īshara. Hazrat Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says: Had I been there at that time, I would have day that he was martyred. The rebels and and scholar. cut these people into pieces. He said: The miscreants did not allow his body to be Promised Messiahas is like other Prophets, buried for three days. Eventually, upon Amina Naiga Kaire Ṣāiba, wife of and the chain of Khilāfat after him is like Hazrat ‘Ali’sra intervention, the burial Muhammad Ali Kaire Ṣāib, Amīr and the chain of Khilāfat after earlier Prophets. was allowed. The miscreants sat outside Missionary In-Charge Uganda, passed Khilāfat is a precious institution, and it and threw stones at the body as it was away on 20th February. She was a brave, doesn’t matter if ten thousand generations taken out. Hazrat Jubair bin Mut’im led faithful and devout lady. She was punctual have to be sacrificed to protect it. When his funeral prayer. His burial was attended in prayers and fasting and served as a I look at the troubles that befell Hazrat by 4, or according to another account 16 model for others. ‘Uthmānra, and then at the spiritual light people. that Holy Prophetsa had bestowed on him, Noohi Kazak Ṣāib of Syria passed away on I say that if I had ten thousand descendent Huzooraa said he would continue with the 10th December at the age of 48. and they were all to be sacrificed so that mention of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, Insha’Allāh. the fitna could have been avoided, I would Farhat Naseem Ṣāiba, wife of Muhammad have done so without any hesitation, for At the end of the sermon, Huzooraa Ibrahim Hanif Ṣāib of Rabwah, passed it would amount to buying an elephant by informed the Jamā‘at about the sad demise away on 26th December at the age of 86 giving a lice. of some members of the Jamā‘at: years.

Hazrat ‘Uthmānra was martyred on Friday Maulvi Muhammad Idrees Tiero Ṣāib, Huzooraa prayed that may Allāh have 17 or 18 or, 12 Zul-Hijjah, 35 A.H., at the Ahmadiyya Missionary, from Ivory mercy on all the deceased and elevate their age of 82 years. According to another Coast, passed away on the night of 27-28 spiritual station in heaven. Amīn! account, he was 75 years old at the time February. He was very devout and sincere of his martyrdom. He was fasting on the Aḥmadī. He was a great preacher, orator

MEN OF EXCELLENCE : HAZRAT UTHMAN IBN AFFANRA

MARCH 19, 2021

uzooraa said that summar- The Holy Prophetsa had made some the glad tidings of Paradise, and said that izing the events that took prophecies regarding Hazrat ‘Uthmānra. a great calamity would befall him. place after the martyrdom One day the Holy Prophetsa entered an of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, Hazrat orchard and instructed Hazrat Abu Musa On another occasion, the Holy Prophetsa Muṣleh Mau‘ūdra says: Now al-Ash’arira to stand guard at the door. was on the mountain of Uhud along with that the miscreants had full control over When Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat ‘Umarra Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat ‘Umarra, and HMadinah, they did some truly outrageous came, the Holy Prophetsa granted them Hazrat ‘Alira, when the mountain started things. For three days they did not allow permission to enter and also gave them the shaking. The Holy Prophetsa said: “O Uhud! Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra body to be buried until glad-tidings of Paradise. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra Be still! You have a Prophet, a Siddīq and some Companions managed to bury him came next. After a short pause, the Holy two martyrs upon you.” in the dark of the night. Prophetsa permitted him to enter, gave him

7 On one occasion, while speaking of a fitna, the Holy Prophetsa pointed to Hazrat ‘Uthmānra and said that he would be killed in this fitna and would be the victim of an injustice.

After the martyrdom 30.5 million dirhams and 1 lac 50 thousand dinars of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, which were in the custody of the treasurer, were looted. Huzooraa said that the fact that a treasurer had been appointed to take care of the money shows that it was part of the national treasury. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra also left 200,000 dinars in charity.

Regarding the physical features of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, it is related that he was of medium height and wheatish complexion and had a handsome face and soft skin. His beard was thick and long. He would come Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa for the Friday prayer wearing two yellow sheets and holding a cane. sa When the Holy Prophetsa wrote a letter to The Holy Prophet said to his daughter the Roman emperor, he had a silver ring who was Hazrat‘ Uthmān’sra wife, “Treat ra ”حممد رسول اہلل“ made on which the words were inscribed. After the Holy Prophetsa, ‘Uthmān in the best manner, for he is this ring remained with Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat ‘Umarra and then Hazrat ‘Uthmānra. the most excellent of my Companions in However, at the time of Hazrat ‘Uthmānra, his morals.” it fell into a well called Arīs. A thorough search was carried out for three days and idolaters. Moreover, at the time of Bai‘at out an expansion of Masjid Harām. The even the water of the well was drained, Rizwān, the Holy Prophetsa pointed to his first Islāmic fleet was built in the time of but the ring could not be found. own left hand and said, “This is ‘Uthmān’s Hazrat ‘Uthmānra in 28 A.H. hand.” On one occasion, the Holy Prophetsa said, Hazrat ‘Uthmānra resembled the Holy “Every Prophet has a companion, and my The expansion of the Holy Prophet’ssa Prophetsa most in his morals. The Holy companion in Paradise will be ‘Uthmān.” Mosque took place during the Khilāfat of Prophetsa said to his daughter who was Hazrat ‘Uthmānra. Despite the reservations Hazrat‘ Uthmān’sra wife, “Treat ‘Uthmānra On one occasion, the miscreants raised of some of the Companions, he started in the best manner, for he is the most some objections regarding Hazrat the construction in the month of Rabi‘ul- excellent of my Companions in his morals.” ‘Uthmānra, such as his absence from the Awal, 29 A.H., and it was completed in just It is narrated that none of the Companions Battle of Badr, his escape from the battle of ten months. Hazrat ‘Uthmānra himself of the Holy Prophetsa could express himself Uhud, and his absence at Bai‘at-e-Rizwān. supervised the construction. The Promised more eloquently and beautifully than Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umarra explained Messiahas says, “I liken Hazrat ‘Uthmānra to ‘Uthmānra. to them that Hazrat ‘Uthmān’sra wife was Hazrat Suleimānas, for he too had a great ill at the time of Badr and that the Holy passion for building. The Holy Prophet’ssa Huzooraa said he would end the account of Prophetsa had instructed him to stay back mosque was built with palm branches, Hazrat ‘Uthmānra now and announce some and take care of her. As for his escape form but since Hazrat ‘Uthmānra was fond funeral prayers to be offered today. Uhud, this was something that had been of building, he replaced it with a brick forgiven by Allāh. As far as his absence structure. Since the names Suleimān and Mubashir Ahmad Rind Ṣāib, son of Ahmad from Bai‘at Rizwān is concerned remember ‘Uthmān rhyme with one another, I feel Bakhsh Ṣāib, Mu‘allim Waqf Jadīd, who if there was anyone more honourable than that this is why they had such affinity.” passed away on March 10. He served as Hazrat ‘Uthmānra in Makkah, the Holy Mu’allim and inspector in various localities Prophetsa must have sent him instead of In 26 A.H., Hazrat ‘Uthmānra renewed the of Pakistan. He was very hardworking and Hazrat ‘Uthmānra as his emissary to the markings of the Haram in order to carry devout and punctual in his Tahajjud. He is

8 Aḥmadiyya Gazette survived by his wife, two sons and three in 1999, as Amīr of Islamabad district. Konok Baik Omur Bakuf of Kyrgyzstan daughters. He was a member of the Central Finance passed away on February 22 at the age Committee, Director of Fadl-e-Umar of 67. He was among the earliest Aḥmadīs Munir Ahmad Farrukh Ṣāib, former Foundation, and Executive Member of from Kyrgyzstan. He accepted Aḥmadiyyat Amīr Jamā‘at Islamabad (Pakistan), passed IAAAE. He is survived by a wife, two sons in 2000. He was a sincere and devoted away in Canada on March 9 at the age of and two daughters. Aḥmadī. He participated in the Jamā‘at’s 84 after a long illness. He had bequeathed programs and Chandas, was regular in 1/9th of his income/property to the Brigadier Retired Muhammad Latif Ṣāib, his Tahajjud and was deeply devoted to scheme of Wasiyyat. He was an electrical former Amīr of Rawalpindi District, passed Khilāfat. He is survived by his wife and a engineer and had retired from Pakistan away on February 28 at the age of 77. After seven-year-old son. Telecommunication Limited in 1997 as his retirement in 2000, he devoted his time Director General. He also served as Qā’id to the service of the Jamā‘at. From 2019 till May Allāh have mercy on all the deceased Khuddamul Aḥmadiyya, Rawalpindi. his demise he served as Amīr of Rawalpindi and grant them lofty station in heaven! After his transfer to Islamabad, he was District. He is survived by a wife, two sons Amīn! first appointed as Deputy Amīr and then, and two daughters.

THE PROMISED MESSIAH: THE NEED FOR THE IMAM

MARCH 26, 2021

uzooraa recited verses 3-4 of of the Promised Messiahas in which he the Sahāba in their sincerity and devotion. Sūrah Al-Jumu‘ah, which are outlines the need and purpose of his as follows: advent and cites past prophecies that serve Huzooraa said: After pledging Bai’at to the as proof of the truth of his claim. He also Promised Messiahas, we should have the “He it is Who has raised speaks of how his Jamā‘at is undergoing same strength of faith in Allāh and the among the Unlettered a holy transformation and bearing Holy Prophetsa and Islām and in the truth Hpeople a Messenger from among hardships just the like the Sahāba of the of the Promised Messiahas as the Sahāba themselves who recites unto them His Holy Prophetsa. We need to remember all had. These days I am relating accounts Signs, and purifies them, and teaches them this so that we can prosper as a Jamā‘at. regarding the Sahāba and they should the Book and wisdom, although they had serve as role models for us. been, before, in manifest misguidance; And Explaining the verse of the Holy Qur’ān among others from among them who have that I have recited, the Promised Messiahas The Promised Messiahas says: The meaning not yet joined them. He is the Mighty, the says: The crux of this verse is that God of this verse is that there are two groups Wise.”

Huzooraa said: A few days ago it was March In order to accomplish this important 23rd, the day on which the Aḥmadiyya Jamā‘at was founded. Each year this day mission, we, who claim to have made should remind us that, in keeping with the pledge of allegiance to the Promised prophecies of the Holy Qur’ān and the Holy as Prophetsa, the purpose of the advent of the Messiah , are duty-bound to employ all Promised Messiahas was to revive the faith our capabilities towards this end. and to spread the true teachings of Islām to the whole world. In order to accomplish this important mission, we, who claim to is the One Who sent His Messenger at a of people who will receive guidance and have made pledge of allegiance to the time when people had become devoid of wisdom after they had gone astray: The Promised Messiahas, are duty-bound to knowledge and wisdom. The Messenger first of these were the Sahāba of the Holy employ all our capabilities towards this purified their souls and bestowed upon Prophetsa, and the second are the followers end. We have to re-acquaint lost mankind them knowledge of the Book and wisdom. of the Promised Messiahas, because, like with God and to remind them to fulfil their Then it says that another people will the Sahāba of the Holy Prophetsa, they too obligations towards one another. First of appear in the latter days of the world are witnesses to the miracles of the Holy all, however, we need to reform our own who will also be engrossed in darkness Prophetsa. Today, after thirteen hundred selves. and misguidance and will be devoid of years, the door of the miracles of the Holy knowledge and wisdom and faith; but, Prophetsa has opened once again. People Today, I would like to quote some writings then, God will cause them to become like have witnessed the lunar and solar eclipses

9 in the month of Ramaḍān and have seen the Great Comet.

Similarly, the spread of the Plague, to be barred from the Hajj, the establishment of the railways and the consequent abandonment of the camels, all these are miracles of the Holy Prophetsa that have been witnessed in this age. Our Jamā‘at has an extraordinary affinity with the Sahāba because we suffer mockery and ridicule and abuse in the way of Allāh just as the Sahāba did.

The Promised Messiahas says: In this age, to unite the different sects into one and to eliminate religious conflicts and gather all people under one religion. The Holy Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa Qur’ān mentions many signs of these latter days, such as the construction of canals, the discovery of minerals, the progress as of terrestrial sciences, the abandonment The mission of the Promised Messiah of camels, the proliferation of books, the discovery of easy ways of communication, is to end the conflict and to make Islām the eclipse of the moon and the sun, the triumphant through pen, prayers and spread of the Plague, etc. It should be very enlightening for the wise that God has sent great concentration. me at a time when all the signs written in the Holy Qur’ān have been fulfilled. Messiahas says: I have presented the perfect Muslims, to comprehend this truth and path that will cause Islām to prevail over to understand the claim of the Promised The mission of the Promised Messiahas other religions. If you call me a liar and Messiahas so that they may soon pledge is to end the conflict and to make Islām an impostor, even after seeing the signs allegiance to the Messiah and Mahdī. triumphant through pen, prayers and that He has shown in my support, then great concentration. Unfortunately, I challenge you to show me the example At the end of the sermon, Huzooraa once people do not grasp this fact and they are of an impostor who continuously received again appealed for prayers for the Aḥmadīs more focused on materialism of this world Divine support. I swear by God that I am of Pakistan and Algeria. In Pakistan than their faith. Being engrossed in the truthful. God helps me in every lawsuit, incidents are taking place on an almost impurities of this world, how can they hope saves me from every calamity, and has daily basis. Similarly, the intentions of to gain the in depth knowledge of the Holy instilled love for me in the hearts of some government officials in Algeria do Qur’ān? The sole purpose of my advent is to hundreds of thousands of people. If I was not look good. May Allāh protect every revive and support Islām. The Sharia and not of the ummah of the Holy Prophetsa Aḥmadī in every country of the world! Prophethood have come to an end with and was not among his followers, then, Aḥmadīs should also strive to submit the Holy Prophetsa. However, the blessings even if my good deeds were equal to all before Allāh and fulfil their obligations and bounties of the Holy Prophetsa and the the mountains of the world put together, towards His creatures. May Allāh enable fruits of the teachings and guidance of I would never have had the honour of us all to do so! the Holy Qur’ān have not come to an end. receiving Divine word and discourse. This God has sent me to support and guide the is because all Prophetic dispensations, Muslims at a time when they are weak and with exception of the dispensation of the in decline. Referring to persecution by the Holy Prophetsa, have come to an end. The opponents, the Promised Messiahas says: I task that God has entrusted to me is to do not regret that I am called the antichrist remove the estrangement that has come and a liar or that I am slandered, rather It about between God and His creatures and was appropriate that I should have been to re-establish a relationship of love and treated like the Messengers before me. devotion. I, for my part, have not suffered even a fraction of the hardship that the Holy Huzooraa said: May Allāh enable all the Prophetsa had to go through. The Promised people of the world, particularly the

10 Aḥmadiyya Gazette LOVE BETWEEN AHMADĪS AND THE KHALĪFA

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul-Masī V (May Allah be his Helper!)

The following is the text of the Friday Sermon delivered on May 29, 2020 by our Beloved Imam on the occasion of Khilafat Day. It has been translated into English by the Review of Religions.

fter reciting the Tashahud, When the Promised Messiahas informed Ta‘awuz, and Surah Al- the Community of his departure from this Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul- world after having been informed by Allah Masī Vaa stated: the Almighty, along with this, in order to reassure the Community, he also gave the On one occasion the Promised glad tiding of the establishment of the AMessiahas stated: institution of Khilafat in the Community after having been informed about it by I am thankful to God Almighty for Allah the Almighty. Hence, the Promised granting me a sincere and loyal Messiahas wrote in his booklet entitled Al- community. I observe that whenever I Wasiyat [The Will]: call upon them for any task or purpose, they swiftly and passionately come So do not grieve over what I have forward, in an attempt to excel one said to you, nor should your hearts be another, according to their strength distressed for it is essential for you to and ability. I can see that they possess witness the second Manifestation also, a spirit of devotion and sincerity and its Coming is better for you because (Malfūzat, Vol. 2, p. 53). it is everlasting, the continuity of which will not end till the Day of Judgement. We have observed the expressions of this And that second Manifestation cannot sincerity, loyalty and love towards the come unless I depart. But when I Promised Messiahas through countless depart, God will send that second The Promised Messiahas accounts of the Companions of the Manifestation for you, which shall Promised Messiahas. Also, there are always stay with you just as promised human endeavour can create or sustain narrations in relation to this which have by God in Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya. And such a bond. It is this very bond that is passed down generations in those families this promise is not for my person, the guarantor of the unity and progress who accepted Ahmadiyyat in the very rather the promise is with reference of the Community. Moreover, this is also early days. Also, in our literature and in to you, as God [addressing me] says: ‘I evidence for the fulfilment of the promise the sermon of the Khulafa’, we also find shall make this Jama‘at who are your of Allah the Almighty and of His continuous mention of these accounts. followers, prevail over others till the support of the Promised Messiahas and of Day of Judgment.’ (Al-Wasiyat, Ruḥni the truthfulness of the Ahmadiyya Muslim However, this relationship that was Khaza’in, Vol. 20, p. 7) Community. established with the Promised Messiahas and which still continues down in their Thus, according to this promise of Allah The relationship that members of the families is also present among those who the Exalted, the institution of Khilafat Community have with Khilafat is possessed later joined the Community as well and so was established after the demise of the by those who have been Ahmadi from birth it should be. This relationship is not just Promised Messiahas. However, the mere as well as those who have recently joined, limited to that era, rather in accordance establishment of this institution does including children, youth, men and women with the promise of Allah the Almighty not hold any significance unless there and also by such Aḥmadīs who live far away with the Promised Messiahas, there exists is a relationship between the Khalīfa of and have never even seen the Khalīfa of an equally strong bond with the succession the time and members of the Community the time. All these people have excelled in that followed him. It is this bond that is based on sincerity, loyalty, devotion and sincerity and loyalty and they continuously the sign and the guarantor of the unity of love and such a bond can only be created try to excel further. Whenever they receive the Community. by Allah the Almighty. No individual or a directive from the Khalīfa of the time,

11 they try to act upon it. They express their me in relation to my health.’” The editor The reason for this is that as soon as we love and relationship in such a manner further wrote, “The ardent devotees are open the Badr [newspaper], the very first that one is truly astounded. All these things expressing their affection in an astonishing words our longing eyes search for are the are a practical evidence for the fulfilment manner. I present the text of some of the words of this heading and it is our desire of the promise of Allah the Almighty and letters as an example. that such words are included in this very also the progress of the Community is heading, which will immediately grant also dependent upon this relationship. As “Hakim Muhammad Hussain Ṣahib Quraishi comfort to our hearts before reading the I said, the relationship that the Community writes, “One day, I prayed to the Almighty actual passages inside [the newspaper].’” has with Khilafat and in turn, the Khalīfa God, “O my Master! The needs in the time The editor writes, “We honour the sincerity of the time has with the Community, is of Hazrat Noahas were limited to a certain of our dear friend and therefore we have evidence of the continuous support of area but only You are aware of the needs of produced a heading in accordance with his Allah the Almighty. These are not just today. Accept our supplications and grant wish.” (Al-Badr, 6 April 1911, p. 1, Vol. 10, mere claims, rather this is demonstrated our Imam a life as long as Noah’sas!”’ Edition, 22 & 23) through hundreds of thousands of accounts where members of the Then, Hazrat Abu Abdullah Ṣahibra of Community have expressed these Khewa Bajwa, who was a companion sentiments. If those incidents were of the Promised Messiahas, was gathered, they would result in once sat in the company of Hazrat countless voluminous books. Khalifatul-Masī Ira and requested to be granted some advice. Hazrat Nevertheless, Huzooraa then Khalifatul-Masī Ira said, “Maulvi narrated some accounts of the Ṣahib! I do not believe that anything sentiments and emotions which ought to be done that you have members have always had and will not already carried out. The only continue to have for the Khalīfa of thing that is now left to do is the the time. memorisation of the Holy Qur’an.” Hence, after hearing the words This started right after the demise of Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī Ira, he of the Promised Messiahas and 112 started memorising the Holy Qur’an years later, they continue till this at the age of approximately 65 and very day. The opponents believed became a Hafiz Qur’an (qtd. in The that this Community would come Daily Al-Fazl, 8 December 2010, p. 4 to an end after the demise of the with reference to Al-Fazl Qadian, 19 Promised Messiahas. However, April 1947). the determination, affection and relationship of sincerity and Such was the spirit of seeking to devotion towards Khilafat and the Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī Ira implement and acting in accordance Promised Messiahas are continuously with the instructions of Khalifatul- increasing. And after all, why would this “Then, brother Muhammad Hassan Ṣahib Masī. not be the case, as this is in accordance Punjabi writes from Madras, “I became so with the prophecies of the Holy Prophetsa? overjoyed reading the news of the recovery During the era of Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī of Hazrat Ṣahib [i.e. Hazrat Khalifatul- IIra, when the Shuddhi movement gained Huzooraa then presented some accounts Masī Ira] that only my Benevolent Master strength and momentum, observing this, and started by narrating one or two and Merciful God is aware of it’” (Al-Badr, Hazrat Musleh Mau‘ūdra became greatly accounts relating to time of Hazrat 16 February 1911, p. 2, Vol. 10, Edition 16). anxious. This movement began in the area Khalifatul-Masī Ira. of Malkana in 1923 and during his Friday Following this, the editor writes, “Love is a Sermon the very same year, on 9 March, The Editor of Al-Badr [newspaper] wrote strange thing. Our friend, Mian Muhammad Hazrat Musleh Mau‘ūdra presented a in relation to the days when Hazrat Bakhsh Ṣahib, who resides in Australia and scheme to members of the Jama‘at to travel Khalifatul-Masī Ira was unwell. He stated: works in the trade industry, writes in one to those areas on their own expense, in of his letters: order to preach to those who had turned During these days, many letters are being away from their faith and invite them received from Khuddam enquiring about ‘The heading at the bottom of the back [to Islam]. The Jama‘at passionately the health of Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī Ira newspaper from Qadian in relation to responded to this call. Highly educated and praying for his health and well-being. Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī Ira should not only individuals, government workers, teachers Regarding these letters, Hazrat Khalifatul- comprise of the words “Khalifatul-Masī”, and traders, in short, devotees from all Masī Ira has stated, ‘I pray for each and but the heading should also contain words walks of life called people towards God in every one of those who are writing to in relation to his health and well-being. these areas and as a result of their efforts,

12 Aḥmadiyya Gazette thousands of souls once again declared the separation] is proving to be difficult. report stating that he was also influencing kalima [Muslim creed] of the One God. May Allah the Almighty soon bring those in the prison. The clerics issued a Huzoor back in good health and with fatwa of death against him, but one of One day, whilst sitting in the company success and victory. (Sawānih Fazl Umar, the ministers said that he is a citizen of of Huzoorra, an elderly gentleman, Qari Vol. 5, p. 475). the British Empire, therefore they cannot Naeem-ud-Din Ṣahib Bengali, took execute him. In the end, the government permission from Huzoorra and said, “Even Who can develop such a relationship sent him under their protection to India. though my sons, Maulvi Zill-ur-Rahman of love? and Muti-ur-Rahman, a BA student, have Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIra further states: not mentioned this to me, however, I felt Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIra states: that yesterday when Huzoorra spoke After several months, he has about dedicating one’s life and going now returned. The level of his to Rajputana in order to call people determination was such that when I towards God and also the conditions told him he made a mistake and that which Huzoorra mentioned that one there were many countries he could would have to live under, they might have gone to and preached without have reservations in their heart being detained, he immediately that if they offer their services to replied by saying that he would Huzoorra, I, their old father, will face go to any country I suggested. The difficulty as a result. However, I call young man’s mother is still alive, yet on God Almighty as a witness in the he was ready to travel to another presence of Huzoorra and say that I country without having first met am not the slightest bit sorrowful her. But upon my instructions, he is or distressed at them leaving and to now on his way to meet his mother. endure hardships. I emphatically say that even if both of them were killed Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIra states: whilst working for the cause of God, I would not shed a single tear, rather If other young men would show the I would express my gratitude to God same determination as this young Almighty. This is not just in relation man from Punjab who travelled to to these two sons of mine. In fact, Afghanistan, then we could bring even if my third son, Mahbub-ur- about a revolution in the whole Rahman, was killed whilst rendering world within a short period of time his service and if I had ten other sons (Tārikh Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 8, p. 44). who were killed as well, I would not express any sorrow.” Upon this, There is a Syrian brother by the Huzoorra, as well as the members of name of Muhammad Al-Shawa Ṣahib. the Jama‘at, said “Jazakumullah” (Al- When Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIra Fazl, 15 March 1923, pg. 11). visited Syria, he also had the honour Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIra to travel alongside him to Lebanon. In 1924, when Hazrat Khalifatul- He was a very good lawyer and had Masī IIra travelled for his tour of Europe, A young man heard about my scheme, an extremely strong bond with Khilafat. even this temporary separation made which I announced last year. This young Being a lawyer, he would normally like members of the Jama‘at restless. This can man lived in the district of Sargodha and everything to be supported with evidence, be gauged from the following narration. travelled to Afghanistan without a passport but whenever he was told that this was Babu Siraj-ul-Din Ṣahib, a station master, and began preaching.” He thought that as an instruction by the Khalīfa of the time, writes: this is the instruction of the Khalīfa of the he would say, “This is sufficient. Once an time and due to the bond with him, it was instruction has been received, the matter My master! We are far away and absolutely necessary to act upon it. Since is finished and this is the final decision.” helpless. If it were possible, we would the directive was to preach, so as soon as he Such was the relationship these people had have become the dust under Huzoor’s heard it, he went to Afghanistan and began with Khilafat. (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 7, pp. feet so that we would not have to preaching, even without his passport. “The 503-504, Friday Sermon, 23 October 2009). endure the pain of this separation. My government detained him and put him in master! I have not visited Dar-ul-Aman jail, however even whilst in jail he would During the era of the third Khilafa, there [Qadian] for four years now. However, preach to the prisoners and prison guards was an American lady by the name Naima my heart was content at the fact that and established contact with the Aḥmadīs Latif Ṣahiba, who had boundless love and whenever I desired, I could go and kiss there and began to influence many people affection for Khilafat and the Khalīfa of the Huzoor’s feet. Now, even one day [of there. Eventually, the prison officers filed a time and who always gave absolute priority

13 to obedience to the Khalīfa of the time. He purchased it at a higher price and then I delivered the address, a series of questions During the tour of Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī went to Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh to and answers went on for a long time and IIIrh to America, he delivered an address at inform him that he had acted according when a significant amount of time had a university on the topic of the importance to his instructions. Huzoorrh expressed his passed, the missionary announced that of the veil. After listening to this address of joy upon hearing this and Mehr Ṣahib was there would not be a chance to shake hands Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh, she straight also very pleased as a result. (The Daily Al- [i.e with Huzoorrh]. But I was visiting to away began wearing the hijab and she Fazl, 10 May 2010, p. 5) those people, who were meeting the Khalīfa became the only woman in her area at of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community the time to be seen wearing the Islamic Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh once mention- for the first time in their lives and they veil (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 12, p. 605, Friday ed in a sermon: knew not when there would arise such Sermon 3 October 2014). an occasion again in their lives. Thus, despite the announcement As it was the instruction of the being made, they rushed forward Khalīfa of the time and due to to shake hands. her bond with Khilafat, she had a longing to fulfil it. Moreover, Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh as she had taken the oath of relates: allegiance, she wished to act upon it right away. “The private secretary and others in the entourage had no idea Nazeer Ahmad Ṣahib Sanwal of where they had ended up due to Khanewal district narrated an the force of the local Ahamdis incident about a sincere Ahmadi, pushing ahead and they began respected Mehr Muhktar Ahmad shaking hands with me.” Ṣahib of Bagar Sargana. He narrates that in the circumstances Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh during 1974, the opponents had relates further: made Mehr Ṣahib’s life very difficult. Furthermore, as a result They started shaking my hand, of his passionate calling to the way but it was no ordinary meeting, of Allah, his family began opposing for every single individual would him very severely and boycotted take my hand and then would not him completely. Nevertheless, this let go of it. They would continue strengthened his faith further than looking at me and not let go of before and he increased the scope my hand. The person waiting next of his acquaintances and friends. in line would become restless and he would place his one hand on The opponents increased in their the other individual’s arm and opposition and made more and with his other hand, hold onto more plots and schemes. For the my hand in order to separate it Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh sake of his children’s education and and then he himself would shake for them to grow up in a pure environment, “I went on a tour of Africa in 1970. One of my hand. Similarly, he too would not let he sold his plot of farmland and rented a our missionaries there made a programme go of my hand, and the next person would plot near Rabwah and began cultivating which posed great difficulty for me, have to do the same all over again. And this it. When he met Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī because after travelling 100 miles to a happened with scores of people. IIIrh and informed him that he sold his place, we arrived at such a time that I was land in Bagar Sargana (the name of his unable to personally meet all the members Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh said: village) and subsequently acquired a land of the Community there.” on lease near Rabwah and begun planting So it was only with great difficulty that we crops, Huzoorrh did not approve of this It was not difficult because the trip returned from that place. However, I say as the area should not have been left was approximately 100 miles long, the to the non-Aḥmadīs: I do not say to our void [of Aḥmadīs]. Thereupon, he acted difficultly was experienced due to the fact own members as they are already aware immediately in accordance and demanded that the programme was so brief that he regarding the bond between Khilafat and the money back from the landlord for the could not personally meet the people of the the members of the Community, but to lease. But after he refused, he left all the Community there, as he had to deliver an others I say that I am not foolish to be crops and returned to his land in Bagar address where there were also Christians under the impression that it is due to any Sargana, without the lease money. He then from other countries in attendance. Hazrat quality on my part that such love has been tried to buy his land back that he had sold. Khalīfatul Maish IIIrh continues: developed in the hearts of these people,

14 Aḥmadiyya Gazette who live 5-6 thousand miles away, who With regard to Pakistan, on one occasion quality within the Community to hearken have never seen me, nor knew much about Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IVrh pointed out to a call is the essence of its truthfulness, me, to all of a sudden come forward so some of the ills that were taking root there. and no liar in the world can bring about uncontrollably to meet me. This love is He stated: this spirit of truthfulness (Khutbāt Tāhir, purely created by God Almighty (Khutbāt Vol. 11, p. 920). Nāsir, Vol. 6, pp. 547-448). In Pakistan as well various ills are developing, such as the inappropriate use Then there are accounts related to Then comes the era of Hazrat Khalifatul- of video cassettes.” He stated, “I announced Huzoor’saa era. I travelled to Nigeria in Masī IVrh. He states: in a sermon that some ill customs have 2004 – it was only for two days as there was become prevalent, which will result in a no initial plan to visit the country, but it “The extraordinary changes happened by chance and also, we happening in Africa are a result had no choice because our flight of the sacrifices made by the early was from there. However, upon life-devotees. The astonishing arriving there, I realised that it revolution taking place in Africa was actually very important for us nowadays is so astounding that to have visited the country and if even the Community members we had not done so, it would have there cannot fathom the extent been very wrong. Shortly before to which the tremendous changes my visit, the Jalsa Salana of the that have taken place in their Nigeria Jama‘at had just taken countries. place and a large number of members had attended the Jalsa. Some of the more experienced Therefore, it was not expected that members and those who work at upon my arrival, people would be a government level as well have able to travel from long distances. told me themselves that even However, they still travelled to they had no idea of how much see me for just two hours and their countries have advanced in approximately 30,000 men and their love and cooperation with the women gathered. And to witness Community and just how prepared their sincerity and loyalty was they are at this time to receive this indeed a wondrous sight. message. The relationship of such loyalty One person, whose name and and love is truly indescribable. country would not be appropriate Some of them had never even to mention, said, ‘I cannot even physically seen the Khalīfa of begin to understand what is the time before and yet it was so happening. It was beyond my astonishing to see the manner imagination that our nation would in which they expressed their be able to render such service to emotions. During the silent prayer the Khalīfa of the Ahmadiyya Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IVrh upon departing, some of women Muslim Community and would and others were overcome with have the opportunity to express this nation’s morals to be destroyed, the peace such fervent emotions that one was love. This was something I could not even within a household to vanish, the loyalty astounded. However, it is God Almighty imagine. What I have witnessed here is between husband and his wife to break and Alone Who can instil such love and this something we only see shown towards bring about obstructions and a distance in love can only be expressed for the sake of leaders of countries, (and even then it is their relationship. Therefore, do not let God Almighty. only from a worldly perspective), but aside this trend thrive and spread. Following from them I have not seen this happen with this, I received letters from Pakistan, which The Maulvis [clerics] claim that in such any other person.’ He also said, ‘This is not caused my heart to prostrate before God and such African country, they were able due to the efforts of the Community, rather Almighty over and over. Those people who to close the mission of the Jama‘at and in what is happening is from the unseen and were engrossed in certain ill habits had such and such country, the people have is happening in an astonishing manner’ written plainly that they had engaged in promised that they will shut it down. (Khutbāt Tāhir, Vol. 7, pp. 134-135). wrong actions, but it is purely the grace Similarly, they make all kinds of claims of Allah the Almighty that they are part of that they have done such and such thing. Hence, this is all brought about by God the Community of the Promised Messiahas However, one should ask them that the Almighty Himself. and when my words reached them, they rid sincerity and loyalty which those people their hearts of these false idols. Thus, the express and now through MTA we are also

15 able to witness this, and have witnessed one of the missionaries there that they accept any challenge. it for ourselves as well by actually going should apologise to them for failing to there, how is this all possible? Is this as a provide them with food and that they When they were about to begin their result of the missions being closed? In any ought to take care of them from now. journey, a representative of a television case, they can continue making all kinds When they conveyed the apology, they channel asked them that their cycles were of claims they wish to make, however for replied that the purpose for which they in extremely poor conditions and were us all of these things serve as a means of had travelled had been achieved. They very basic cycles – they were not like further strengthening and increasing our said that food was no issue for they eat the ones here in Europe – however the faith. (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 2, pp. 253-254) food every day – it is possible that owing representative of the Jama‘at replied that to their straitened circumstances, they though their cycles were in poor conditions In 2008, I visited Ghana and by the grace may not even have food to eat daily – but but their faith and resolve was strong of Allah the Almighty, the Jama‘at has nevertheless, they said that it was not and they were completing this journey purchased a large area of land, which is every day that one is able to partake of as a way of expressing their gratitude approximately 500 acres. The Jalsa was the spiritual nourishment which they were for being bestowed with the reward of held there and many men and women now receiving. Khilafat. When the national television had already reached there prior to my station published this news, the headline arrival. The land was initially used as a The Jama‘at in Burkina Faso has not been read: “Travelling for the sake of Allah poultry farm and its sheds were converted established for a very long time. In fact, at from Ouaga to Accra to commemorate the into barracks for the purpose of providing the time of my visit [to Ghana] it had only centenary year of Khilafat.” accommodation with doors and windows been 10-15 years since its establishment added to them as well. However, despite and now it must be around 30 years. Ouaga is the capital city of Burkina Faso these arrangements, there was a shortage However, they continue to excel in their and Accra is the capital city of Ghana. It of space, but no one complained. sincerity, loyalty and love. Their financial further mentioned that although their condition can be gauged from the fact that cycles were in poor condition, but their Many of those who were attending the throughout their stay of around 4 to 7 days, faith was extremely resolute. This was the Jalsa were well-off, including businessmen, they remained in the same clothes they had headline which the newspaper published. school teachers and other professions, but travelled in and in their return journey as These Aḥmadīs were not Aḥmadīs from if they couldn’t find any arrangements for well. They had been slowly saving money, birth or the progeny of companions, in accommodation, they simply laid down little by little, so they could travel for the fact they live thousands of miles away, their sheet on the floor and slept outside. Jalsa which was the Jalsa in the centenary in areas where there are not even proper year of Khilafat and was being held in the roads or no roads at all to reach there. The Ghanaian people generally presence of the Khalīfa of the time and Some of them live in areas which do not demonstrate a lot of patience but they therefore, they wanted to make every even have access to water and electricity exhibited patience even more so during effort to ensure they could attend. and having accepted Ahmadiyyat only a these days [of the Jalsa]. Someone even few years prior, they demonstrated such enquired from one or two of them who had Thus, who else can instil such love in examples of sincerity and loyalty that slept outside that they must have endured people other than God Almighty? one is left astounded. In certain areas, a lot of discomfort, but they said that they their circumstances of extreme poverty had come to attend the Jalsa which was Those Khuddam who had travelled by cycle, have caused them great distress, however being held in the presence of the Khalīfa of their level of sincerity is also evident by the after having entered the community of the time, therefore what difference would fact that they continuously travelled for the ardent devotee of the Holy Prophetsa, two days of temporary hardship make; seven days, stopping at various locations. they have developed such sincerity that they were happy that Allah the Almighty Among them were members who were even whenever it is a question of their faith, had granted them the opportunity to 50 to 60 years of age and two of them were their resolve and determination is strong participate in the Jalsa. children aged 13-14. Their Sadr Khuddamul like a rock and they are always ready to Ahmadiyya at the time was asked about offer any kind of sacrifice and are filled People had also travelled from Burkina their journey and it was mentioned that it with such deep love. Thus, we should Faso to attend the Jalsa [in Ghana] and must have been quite difficult. However, always pray that may Allah the Almighty from various other neighbouring countries he replied that the early Muslims rendered continue to increase them in their faith as well. I found out that those who had countless sacrifices for the sake of Islam and loyalty and increase us all in our faith travelled from Burkina Faso was quite and they also desired that their Khuddam and loyalty as well. a large delegation and some of them be ready to offer every kind of sacrifice. did not receive any food. They were And so, they wanted to do something in A member from Burkina Faso, Issa Ṣahib, approximately 3,000 and this was the the centenary year of Khilafat which would did Bai‘at in 2005. At the time, it had been largest delegation that had travelled to enable them to express their sincerity and three years since he had become Ahmadi Ghana, including 300 Khuddam who had loyalty with Khilafat and that they could and he said: travelled by cycle, covering a distance of tell the Khalīfa of the time that they were 1600 kilometres. In any case, I instructed ready to offer any kind of sacrifice and “After three years, it is only today that

16 Aḥmadiyya Gazette I have realised how fortunate I am and Huzooraa previously mentioned this as Such were their emotions. However, after what I have truly found. It is not possible well that during the occasion of the Jalsa a short while, Huzooraa told them all to to express my happiness in words, because in Ghana, there was quite a distance from quieten down and take their seats and it today I have seen and met the Khalīfa of our residence to the Jalsa Gah. Since it was was only thereafter that the Aḥmadīs who the time.” a meandering road, therefore it was almost were in their hundreds quietly sat down. a distance of one kilometre. However, the Thus, such was their bond with Khilafat Among them were some whose love women and men would line up and would (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 6, pp. 191-192). for Khilafat was evident from the tears have children lifted in their hands in order flowing from their eyes. Therefore, this to convey their salām. There would be a People often assume that the people living is the level of sincerity and loyalty which display of such deep emotion. There were in the USA are very materialistic and have is being developed in the newly established almost 50,000 women in attendance at the very little connection with faith. However, Jama‘ats. (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 6, pp. 181- Jalsa of the centenary year of Khilafat and Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī IIIrh also narrated 186) they were all expressing their sincerity an incident of how he once received a letter and loyalty with Khilafat. Their deep love with a threat and when this news became Last year, an individual tried to cause was evident from their eyes, their conduct apparent to others, there were two Ahmadi disorder by exploiting a misconception. and their faces. They also know how to members who were professional security Some of the youths of this very sincere safeguard their prayers and they would guards and they travelled there and stood Jama‘at became under his influence actively take part in the Tahajud prayer guard outside his residence all night. and started to act a little indifferently. and congregational prayers. Although they were still Aḥmadīs, they Nevertheless, the members of USA began to distance themselves from When Huzooraa travelled to Nigeria the [Jama‘at] also have a lot of sincerity. the nizām [administrative structure of second time, he travelled by road from Whenever I have visited USA, they have the Jama‘at]. In any case, I sent a local Benin – or perhaps Huzooraa believed it always expressed their sincerity and missionary to them from Mali, Muaz was related to the first visit in 2004 – in loyalty. Also, delegations from USA also Ṣahib. He went there and explained to any case, Huzooraa had stopped at a place come here to visit and express their them that on the one hand they claim where initially a stop was not planned, sincerity and loyalty for Khilafat. Thus, to have a bond with Khilafat, and on but it was mentioned that a new mosque their practical example in itself refutes other hand, they were trying to distance had been constructed which they wanted this notion that they are only immersed themselves from the nizām therefore this me to see. Members had also gathered in worldly pursuits. The youths who were was not correct. Subsequently, almost all there and it was the desire of the men on duty spent their entire time with me of them began to write letters of apology and they said that they became influenced owing to a misunderstanding and a lack of training, however they said that they After three years, it is only today that I had a relationship of utmost loyalty with have realised how fortunate I am and what Khilafat and they could not even think of distancing themselves from Khilafat. I have truly found. It is not possible to express my happiness in words, because By the grace of Allah the Almighty, they once again became a part of the Nizām today I have seen and met the Khalīfa of Jama‘at. Thus, it was owing to their lack the time.” of training that they deviated, otherwise Issa Ṣahib, Burkina Faso when the matter was clearly explained to them, they immediately realised their error and expressed their full loyalty with and the children to shake my hand and throughout my tour. Some of them even Khilafat. Moreover, they stated that even the women also wanted to come forward risked their businesses and employments. when they had distanced themselves, they and see me from close. However, due to There were some members who mentioned did not detach from Khilafat, but only from the shortage of time, it was not possible that they had only recently started a new some of the office-bearers. Therefore, this to shake everyone’s hand, but those who job, but they couldn’t get leave to attend is their level of loyalty and sincerity. persisted in their efforts managed to shake the Jalsa and see me, therefore they left my hand. There was a particular moment their jobs and came (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. Similarly, those who had come from where the crowd was pressing ahead and 10, p. 424). Gambia, Ivory Coast and various other one of the members of our entourage told countries, all expressed similar sentiments one of the ladies to move a little back. Similarly, Khuddam from Canada display and emotions. Each of them were However, this lady became so angry and the same spirit. Hence, whether it be expressing their utmost sincerity, loyalty it seemed as if she was about to lift him youth, children and women belonging and devotion in their own unique way. and throw him away and to say, “Who are to USA, Canada or any other country of you to come between me and my Khalīfa?” Europe for that matter, everywhere one

17 can find such examples of sincerity and removes themselves from your obedience” “Ahmadiyyat is true and I have recently met loyalty. However, this sincerity and loyalty (Al-Fazl International, 6 April 2018, p. 15, my Khalīfa. Furthermore, God Almighty cannot be instilled through human effort. Jalsa Salana UK 2017, Second Day Address, has shown me several dreams in which Second Session). He showed me that Ahmadiyyat is true. A few years ago, Huzooraa delivered a Therefore, there is no way that I would sermon in Germany in which he spoke In Bulgaria, our opponents have left leave Ahmadiyyat” (Al-Fazl International, 1 about displaying obedience and sincerity no stone unturned in our opposition. November 2013, Vol. 20, edition. 44, p. 14, towards Khilafat. In fact, it was not just After a long time, the Jama‘at has now Concluding Address Jalsa Salana Germany addressed for the people of Germany, but been [officially] registered, whereas the 30 June 2013). for everyone and should be considered registration had been cancelled previously. this way. However due to the situation The mufti [Islamic scholar, expert in the The current Missionary In-Charge of Benin there Huzooraa gave a few examples from field of Jurisprudence] of Bulgaria even writes: within Germany. In any case, Aḥmadīs tried to persuade some Aḥmadīs to leave from all over the world responded to this the Jama‘at by offering them something In the recent Jalsa [gathering] for the and wrote letters expressing their new converts, Razzaq Ṣahib complete obedience and loyalty for who attended the event said, ‘In Khilafat. Similarly, the members the world, if someone is faced in Germany also expressed similar with a problem, they would go sentiments. In fact, some of them to their chief. If he was unable particularly mentioned that as to resolve the issue, he would office-bearers they would at times go the governor of the province offer their own interpretations and after that, he would go to and inferences of the directives the mayor and subsequently the they received and that in future minister. Eventually he would go they will Insha’Allah not act in this to the president and even then, manner. May Allah the Almighty there is no certainty that he enable them as well as the rest of would listen or help. However, the world to act according to this the system of the Ahmadiyya (Khutbāt Masroor, Vol. 12, p. 369). Jama‘at is extraordinary. We have a Khalīfa who understands Qasim Ṣahib from Jordan writes: the issues of every single person, irrespective of their language, race The most beautiful and greatest or background.’ He further stated, proof of the truthfulness of the ‘It is owing to the blessings of the Promised Messiahas is that God Khilafat Ahmadiyya that we are Almighty Himself has instilled the attached to the Holy Qur’an and love and obedience of Khilafat in the Islam brought by the Holy my heart. A few years ago when Prophetsa has now reached us.’ I decided to take the Bai‘at, a thought crossed my mind about Laila Ṣahiba from France says: whether or not the Jama‘at was still established on the right path I performed the Bai‘at in 2017. and fulfils the objectives of the Every morning, I read the letter as Promised Messiah . Up until that Hazrat Khalifatul-Masī Vaa you wrote to me, which has point, I had no idea about Khilafat. completely transformed my life. Upon this, God Almighty showed me in a in return. However, by the grace of In every prayer of mine, I pray for you be dream that Khalifatul-Masī was spreading Allah, not only are the Aḥmadīs there granted protection, help and support.” peace and tranquillity and was issuing resolute in their faith, they express their This prayer can only be offered as a result verdicts between those who quarrel and sincerity even more than before and have of Allah’s grace bestowed by Him alone. argue. After this, I placed my hand upon demonstrated their relationship of loyalty “After taking the Bai‘at I have become a yours” – he wrote this to me – “and kissed towards Khilafat Ahmadiyya. One woman new person altogether. the ring, upon which I instantly felt your was visited by three men and they asked love and kindness. An extraordinary sense her to abandon Ahmadiyyat and to join The missionary serving in the San region of love was instilled in my heart for you, with them, and in return they even offered of Mali writes: which is increasing day by day. I wish to provide her with assistance. In reply to to renew my pledge of allegiance and them, this mujahida [one who strives in A member of our Jama‘at in Wolon, Abdur distance myself from every person who the way of God] answered firmly saying, Rahman Kolibali Ṣahib passed away

18 Aḥmadiyya Gazette recently. A short while before his demise, showing the love an Ahmadi child has with that owing to their relationship with the he gathered all of his children and said, ‘If Khilafat. He states: Khalīfa they are not to deceive him, nor do I was younger and had the strength to walk they do those things which the Khalīfa has about, I would go to the mission house and During a visit to Turkey, I had the chance prohibited for their own sake. render any service the Jama‘at required of to visit the home of an Ahmadi family. I me.’ He also advised his children that he had only just sat down when a three or The missionary from Honduras writes: had two months of outstanding Chanda four-year-old child came and after greeting and he is unsure what the future holds, me, he whispered in my ear that he wished A local Ahmadi, Percy Maurio was facing thus they ought to pay the arrears so that to send a letter to Huzoor and whether certain difficulties. Seeing his situation and he does not depart this world in debt. The I would take it for him. I agreed to take his difficulties, I advised him to write to third advice he gave his children was to the letter. At this, the child scribbled two the Khalīfa for prayers. He said that after remain attached to Khilafat, and never lines on a piece of paper. When I asked writing the letter, most of his troubles show disloyalty to it and to always pay what he had written in the letter he said, resolved themselves. He said he was their Chanda [monetary contributions]. ‘I have written that Huzoor, I love you.’ granted a hidden power and this increased Tahir Ṣahib says he then gave the letter him in his belief and conviction in Khilafat. Amir Ṣahib of The Gambia writes: and the reply also went to them from me. He says that according to the child’s father, Affari Ṣahib from Morocco writes, “You A lady named Rehmat Jalo Ṣahiba when he received the reply to his letter, have enlightened my heart and my entire performed the Bai‘at and after she was the child as well as the rest of the family life with the blessings and mercy. I am informed about offering sacrifice in the were overcome with joy and could not grateful to God Almighty Who has granted way of God, she immediately took out 100 contain their excitement. me guidance. When I see you, I become dalasi. She owns a small shop, but she gave intoxicated with an extraordinary feeling. I Chanda, which was greater than her means Similarly, the Missionary In-Charge of have never sat with you nor ever spoken to and said that she only desired the love of Macedonia writes another incident about you. Undoubtedly, this is true love that has Allah and His Khalīfa. She further said that a child; he writes: been bestowed by God. May Allah always it was owing to this love that she gave the grant you His help and succour.” Chanda and offered sacrifice in the way of During a recent visit to Bosnia, owing God Almighty. to our preaching endeavours, I became Iman Ṣahiba from Yemen writes: acquainted with a Pakistani gentleman and Izat Amān Ṣahib from Tajikistan writes: met with him a few times. He told me that I love Huzooraa more than myself, my some time ago, he had met a family at Dubai children and my family. He is the peace When my mother was 72 years old, she fell Airport. They had a three or four-year-old and comfort of my heart. I am hopeful that severely ill. Her health had deteriorated daughter who was advising everyone to God Almighty will ensure that all matters over the years due to her heart condition offer prayers and to speak the truth. When return to normal. The advent of the and anxiety issues. Owing to the verdict I learnt that the family belonged to the Promised Messiahas and the Khulafa’ after of the doctors, my relatives were not Ahmadiyya Community, I asked the girl him, was in order to bring about peace and hopeful.” He further writes, “Having what was her greatest desire, to this she reconciliation after the discord and so that met the Khalīfa and because of this replied, ‘I wish to meet my beloved Khalīfa, the burden of our saddened hearts may be relationship, I was convinced that if I who resides in London.’ He then said that removed. My condition is similar to the requested for prayers, it would certainly be this had a lasting impression on him that saying of the Holy Prophetsa when he said, accepted.” He writes, “Nonetheless, when a girl of such a young age only desired to ‘O Allah! I care for nothing other than for I wrote for prayers, I received a reply in meet with her Khalīfa. You not to be displeased with me.’ I pray which homeopathic medicines had also to God Almighty to be included among been prescribed. My mother recovered Likewise, recently, when I prohibited the fortunate ones whom you love and and at present she is 79 years old”; this children playing a video game because are pleased with their family. was at the time he wrote this. “She even of the harmful habits that can develop as intends to go for Hajj. This was all due to a result of playing that, initially parents having a relationship with Khilafat and a were worried as to how they would stop result of prayers of the Khalīfa that Allah their children. However, many parents the Almighty has granted her a long life. have written to Huzooraa saying that after listening to my sermon, the children Allah the Almighty demonstrates such themselves said that since the Khalīfa has signs in order to strengthen one’s faith and prohibited that game, they would not play conviction that the Promised Messiahas was it. Even now, Huzooraa receives many truthful and sent by Allah the Almighty. letters in which the children ask if they are permitted to play for such and such time. Tahir Nadeem Ṣahib has written an account This shows that they have a realisation

19 SEVEN RANKS OF SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

Hazrat Mirzā Bashīrud-Din Mahmūd Aḥmadra

The following is an extract from the book Blessings of Khilāfat, which comprises of an English rendering of two profound speeches of Hazrat Muṣleḥ Mau‘ūdra. The first speech entitled “Objective of Human Life” expounds upon the seven ranks of spiritual development.

I will now state the seven stages of spiritual humble themselves for fear of Allāh. And lives. Sometimes animalistic behaviour development that the Holy Qur’ān has Allāh is not unmindful of what you do. ] prevails over spiritual behaviour and man stated. Elaborating on these seven becomes like animals; whereas, at times, stages, the Holy Qur’ān explains how if That is, these people are so corrupt that animalistic tendencies are suppressed man ignores them, he falls into the abyss they have become like stones, and are now and buried under the vegetable organism, of spiritual deterioration; and how if he devoid of every seed of prosperity. Even and he sinks further into materialistic should follow them, he commences on an a small seed when planted in the ground pursuits. Sometimes he is swayed by an upward journey of continuous spiritual and watered, turns into a big tree; but a influence that likens death and he takes progress. The more understanding he gains stone however one tries, can bring him on a character that exhibits no signs of of these stages, the more fruitful his efforts no benefit. life. His heart becomes hardened. Like and deeds become. a stone which can be thrown by people Therefore, the lowest of the spiritual stages in any direction, he too is tossed in one FIRST RANK of man is the one where man is devoid direction or the other by the vicissitudes of consequences for his actions and loses of life. Such a person becomes totally At the first stage of spirituality, man is like all sense of accountability. Islam wants to unaware of himself. an inanimate substance. This is the lowest inculcate such sense and knowledge in man of the stages. Such people are devoid of any so that he may become conscious of what Then when one takes a step toward sense for distinguishing between right and he is doing at all times, but those people progress and shuns the condition that wrong. However one tries to make them who belong to this stage are not possessed likens the dead, a kind of energy develops understand, all such efforts prove useless, of any such sense or knowledge. They are in him that causes him to flourish. So there for such people are inherently unable to slaves to their whims and keep changing are two kinds of people: those who are progress. They do not even see dreams or courses as it suits them. When hungry, they like stones and are devoid of any sense receive revelation. The following verse is fill their stomachs. When they feel sleepy, of life; and then there are those who indicative of such people: they go to sleep. When they feel like having are like plants and behave like sentient sex, they have sex. This is why they are beings. It is now a proven fact after much ُ َّ َ َ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ ّ َ ۡ ٰ َ َ َ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ َ َ ُّ َ ۡ َ ً َ َّ not deserving of any reward from Allāh. experimentation that plants too have ثم قست قلوبکم ِم ۢۡن بع ِد ذلِک ف ِہ َی کال ِحجار ِۃ او اشد قسوۃ ؕ و ِان ۡ َ َ َ َّ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ٰۡ َّ ۡ َ َ َّ َّ ُ َ ۡ ُ life. They certainly possess it, though it ِم َن ال ِح َج َار ِۃ ل َما یَتفجرُ ِمنہ الانہرُ ؕ َو ِان ِمنہا ل َما یَشقق ف َیخ ُرج ۡ ُ ۡ َ ُ َ َّ ۡ َ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ۡ َ ّٰ َ َ ّٰ ُ َ SECOND RANK is not of such fine quality that is found in ِمنہ المٓاء ؕ و ِان ِمنہا لما یہ ِبط ِمن خشی ِۃ الل ِہ ؕو ما اللہ بِغافِ ٍل animals. To prove this, one can give the َ َّ َ ۡ ُ َ عما تع َملوۡن ۝ The next stage resembles plants. Man is example of sensitive plant that is called (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:75) composed of different elements. Some lajwanti in Urdu, whose leaves shrink when elements come from non-organic matters, touched. This shrub belongs to a family [Then your hearts became hardened after whereas some come from plant life and of plants that have reached a stage of life that, till they were like stones or harder then some others from animals. That is very close to animals. This shows that still; for of stones indeed there are some why the most balanced diets contain trees too are sentient, and some of them out of which gush forth streams, and of elements of all three of these things. are more developed in terms of sensory them there are some out of which flows Since the body is composed of organs perceptions than others. Similarly, some water when they cleave asunder. And that develop from these elements, they other plants also resemble animals, such indeed, of them there are some that exercise a kind of influence in their as sponge whose food also is made of

20 Aḥmadiyya Gazette َ ُ ُ َّ َ ۡ َ َ َ َ ُ ۡ َ ۡ ُ ٌ َّ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ َ َ ُ ۡ ٰ َ ٌ َّ FIFTH RANK ل ُہ ۡم قلوۡ ٌب لا یفق ُہوۡ َن ِبہا ۫ و لہم اعین لا یب ِصرون ِبہا ۫ و لہم اذان لا organic materials. Some even term the ُ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ َ َ ُ ُ َ ُ ۡ ٰ ُ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ٰٓ َ َ َ ۡ ۡ ّ ٰٓ ُ ۡ َ ۝ یسمعون ِبہا ؕ اول ِئک کالانع ِام بل ہم اضل ؕ اول ِئک ہم الغ ِفلون sponge as being an animal, for though it is a plant, it has developed itself to a stage Thereafter, man progresses further and that is very close to being an animal. In (Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:180) advances to the point where he becomes short, these precepts make it clear that like an angel. He becomes so watchful that plants too are sentient. The difference That is: they have hearts, but they do Satan is no longer able to overpower him. between the two is that though plants have not benefit themselves therewith. They His knowledge about God increases to a sensory perception, they cannot protect have eyes, but they avail themselves not degree that he begins to act upon all of themselves against any danger. The leaves therewith. They have ears, but they do not His commandments, and just as angels of lajwanti or touch-me-not do shrink use them to their advantage. They have work in accordance with , he too fulfils when they are touched, but are not capable all these things, but lack human wisdom. his obligations in terms of every Divine of running away from danger to save them. Instead, they only possess such wisdom as commandment. At this stage, forgetfulness Likewise, a person sometimes may not be is found in animals. When faced with fear, can never overtake him. Indicating this, fully devoid of spirituality, yet he is unable they take to their heels, but are unable to God says: َ َ َّ .to safeguard himself against any attack of find means to protect themselves in future َ َ َ ۡ َّ ۡ َ ُ َ ّ َ ۤ ُ ۡ َ َ ۡ َ ۡ َّ ّ َ ۡ َ ُّ َ َ ۡ ُ َ َ ۡ ٰ ّ َ َ َ َ ُ افمن یعلم انما ان ِزل ِالیک ِمن ر ِبک الحق کمن ہو اعمی ؕ ِانما یتذکر sinfulness. This is due to his being depleted ُ ُ ۡ َ ۡ َ َّ ۡ َ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ ۡ ّٰ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ ۡ ۡ َ َ اولوا الالباب ۝ال ِذین یوفون بعہد الل ِہ و لا ینقضون المیثاق of spirituality. The Holy Qur’ān speaks of This means they prostrate at the Divine َ ِ ٰ ِ ِ ِ َ ّ ۡ َ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ۤ َ َ َ ّ ُ ۤ َ ۡ ُّ ۡ َ َ َ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ََّ ُ ۡ َ such people in the following verse: threshold when faced with fear and ۝و ال ِذین ی ِصلون ما امر اللہ ِب ٖہ ان یوصل و یخشون ربہم و َ ُ ٓ ۡ َّ َ َ trepidation and manage to protect َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ۝ َ ۡ َ َ ُ ۡ َ َ ۡ َّ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ ٰ َ ۡ ُ َ َ یخافون سوء ال ِحس ِاب و ال ِذین صبروا اب ِتغٓاء وج ِہ رِب ِہم و َو ا ۡن ت ۡد ُعوۡ ُہ ۡم الی ال ُہدی لَا یَ ۡس َم ُعوۡا ؕ َو ت ٰرى ُه ْم یَنظ ُر ۡو َن ال ۡیک َو ُہ ۡم لَا َ َ َ ۡ ُ َ ۡ ٰ ً َ ً َ themselves against such suffering, but are ِ ِ ِ َ ُ ّ ٰ َ َ َ ۡ ّ َ َ ُ ۡ ّ ّ َ َ َ ّ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ َ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ اقاموا الصلوۃ و انفقوا ِمما رزقنہم ِسرا و علانِیۃ و یدرءون .unable to protect themselves permanently یب ِصرون ۝ ۡ َ َ َ َّ ّ َ َ ُ ٰٓ َ َ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َّ َّٰ ُ َۡ ِبالحسن ِۃ الس ِیئۃ اول ِئک لہم عقبی الدارِ ۝جنت عدٍن Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:199) They turn to God only when they are hit) َّ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ َ َ َ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ ٰ َ ۡ َ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ ُ ّ ّٰ ۡ َ ۡ َ ٰٓ َ ُ یدخلونہا و من صلح ِمن ابٓائِ ِہم و ازو ِاج ِہم و ذرِی ِت ِہم و المل ِئکۃ .with some calamity َ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ ۡ ّ ۡ ُ ّ َ َ ٰ ٌ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ ُ ۡ َ ۡ َ Meaning that these opponents are such یدخلون علی ِہم ِمن ک ِل ب ٍاب ۝ سلم علیکم ِبما صبرتم ف ِنعم ُ ۡ َ َّ that you invite them to guidance, but they FOURTH RANK عقبی الدارِ ۝ hear not. You think they have the ability to see, but the fact is that they see nothing. After this stage, one enters another stage (Surah Ar-Ra‘d, 13:20–25) The literal meaning is to hear, but the where he becomes more conscientious. purpose of hearing is to obey. This is a stage that lies at the midpoint. That is, O Prophet, who knows that what There are three more stages after it, and has been revealed to you from your Lord That is why it implies that they will not three before it. At this stage, man becomes is the truth, how can you be like that blind believe, and that they simply do not have a conscious being and is fully aware and person who does not consider it to be true? the ability to acquire faith. Indeed these cognizant of his actions, though at times Only those truly benefit from Our words are people who, though possessed of he is completely overtaken by Satan. This who are gifted with understanding—that some spirituality, are unable to protect means that sometimes he is drawn towards is, those who are filled with wisdom and themselves. Having eyes, they are unable vice and sometimes towards good; but he insight. They fulfil their covenants with to benefit from them. is not easily overpowered by vice, for he Allāh and do not break them. They follow has developed the ability to recognize evil. what God commands them to do and fear THIRD RANK About this state of man, God says: their Lord. They dread the evil reckoning. َ َ َ They persevere in seeking the pleasure of َّ َّ ۡ َ ّ َ ۡ َ َ َّ ُ ۡ ٰٓ ٌ ّ َ ّ ۡ ٰ َ َ ّ ُ ۡ َ َ ُ ۡ their Lord, observe prayer and spend out ِان ال ِذین اتقوا ِاذا مسہم ط ِئف ِمن الشیط ِن تذکروا ف ِاذا ہم ,Then there is a stage higher than this ُّ ۡ ُ ۡ َ of what they have been given, secretly and مب ِصرون ۚ ۝ ,which is the animal stage. At this stage man tends to behave like animals, in that (Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:202) openly. They exert to repel evil with good, he is a more conscious being than plants and spread goodness. It is these who shall are. Should someone call him, he is able to As to those who are righteous, when a have the best reward in the paradise. Their hear, but will not be able to understand. suggestion from Satan assails them, they abode there will be everlasting. They are Should you decide to injure him, he will remember God: and behold! they begin to blessed with such a high spiritual station run away, but still cannot fully provide see things rightly. that their reward will not be confined to for himself means that can permanently them. Many of their relatives who might protect him against such harm. It is natural This is the stage of man where he is prone not have been able to do enough good [in on the part of man to keep thinking of to forgetfulness. In other words, we can this world] will be elevated in rank due to ways to get rid of those things which he call this stage as nafs lawwamah, or the them. Their relatives will be provided an considers harmful; but as for animals, they reproving self. About such people God says abode where they themselves will be. This are simply unable to create anything or that they quickly seek refuge with Allāh if will happen because they tried to make the make any progress. Regarding such people, they are ever attacked by Satan, and this people righteous and made efforts to bring God says: is what the righteous should always do. them to the right path. In return for what they did, God will not only raise their own

21 spiritual stations, but will also raise the something so he asked for an order to be to be so close to God, God becomes his ears, stations of those related to them. given. But this is a station at which one hands and feet. The one, who becomes his says that he is mere nothing, and that he enemy, becomes an enemy to God; and one The Holy Prophetsa has said: In paradise, I will act as commanded by God. Now, since who becomes friends with him, becomes will be accompanied by ‘Ali and Fātimah. he will act as God tells him to act, all of his friends with God. It was to this station in That is because God says that He will be actions will be God’s actions; for the pen view of which God said to the Promised kind to even the relatives of those who only inscribes what the writer wills. It is Messiahas: ‘one who pays not heed to look after His creation in this world. The said that there was a soldier who would you, in fact he is heedless of me, for My next statement by God is very wonderful. move his sword so quickly and forcefully attributes have manifested in you. For Everything is attracted to its own kind. God that he could cut all four legs of a horse this reason, to denounce you is equal to states that when these people will enter with one stroke. When the king’s son saw denouncing me.’ This is a station at which paradise, the angels will swiftly move the scene, he asked for the sword. The man man is completely overtaken by his Lord. towards them. The angels are bound to was hesitant to give it to him, but the king fall in love with them, for they are those asked him to hand over the sword to the SEVENTH RANK possessed of angelic spirits. They will rush boy. When the prince moved the sword, towards them saying, ‘peace be on you, nothing happened. The soldier said that There is only one station higher than this, for you remained steadfast’. Here, God the reason he did not want to give him the and it is described by God as: ُ َّ َ ۡ َ ۡ ٰ ُ َ ۡ ً ٰ َ َ َ َ ٰ َ َ ّٰ ُ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ ٰ ۡ َ has stated in clear terms that such people sword was that there was nothing so ثم انشانہ خلقا اخر ؕ فتبرک اللہ احسن الخ ِل ِقین ۝ will possess the station equal to that of the special about the sword. He said that the angels—and the station possessed by the sword would cut all four legs of the horse (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:15) angels is indeed very high. because of the hands that were using it. Even if he, were given another sword, he ...then We developed it into another SIXTH RANK could still demonstrate the same, for there creation. was nothing special about the sword; Man, then, progresses further and excels rather, it was his own hand wielding it that It is very hard to describe this spiritual even higher when he becomes aware of possessed the strength to cut. The same is state. At this station, man is granted a his spiritual station. It is then that he does the condition of man when he hands new creation, and is once again blessed not only safeguard his self against vice; he himself over to God. All his actions then with new faculties. At the stage earlier rather comes to understand that his being become God’s actions. This is the reason than this, he spoke when God told him is mere nothing. Having realized this, he that some foolish people, who fail to to speak; but at this stage he is blessed surrenders himself completely to God. It understand this phenomenon and try to with such an elevated station and purity is this state of man about which the sufi’s impede the work of such people, are of heart that Allāh the Almighty turns have said that man begins to partake of absolutely annihilated. One, who has whatever he utters into a Divine decree. divine attributes. The Holy Qur’ān has thus attained this station, is no longer in need At this stage, man becomes a beloved of elaborated this rank: of any angels. God. That is why many words which such people speak out of their own inference َ ٰ َ ۡ َ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ َ ٗ ّٰ َ ُ َ ُ ۡ ٌ َ َ ٗۤ َ ۡ ُ ٗ ۡ َ َ ّ َ َ َ ۡ ٌ It is related about Hazrat Ibrahimas that the are fulfilled by God. This is what has been بلی ٭ من اسلم وجہہ لِل ِہ و ہو مح ِسن فلہ اجرہ ِعند ر ِب ٖہ ۪ و لا خوف َ َ ۡ ۡ َ َ ُ ۡ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ َ :angel Gabriel visited him and asked if he indicated in this verse ٪ علی ِہم و لا ہم یحزنون ۝ َ Nay, whoever submits himself completely needed anything. He replied if he needed ُ ۡ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ ُ ُّ ۡ َ ّٰ َ َ ّ ُ ۡ ُ ۡ ۡ ُ ُ ّٰ ُ َ َ ۡ ۡ َ ُ ۡ ُ ُ ۡ َ ُ ۡ قل ِان کنتم ت ِحبون اللہ فات ِبعونِ ۡی یح ِببکم اللہ و یغ ِفر لکم ذنوبکم .to Allāh, while he is excellent in conduct, anything, he would ask directly from God َ ّٰ ُ َ ُ ۡ ٌ َّ ۡ ٌ ؕ و اللہ غفور ر ِحیم ۝ .shall have his reward with his Lord. No fear At this the angel Gabriel told him to pray shall come upon such, neither shall they Abraham replied, ‘Isn’t God aware of my (Surah Āl-e-‘Imran, 3:32) grieve. (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:113) circumstances? Why should I pray? When God is already aware of all my needs, why Say, ‘If you love Allāh, follow me: then will Hazrat Ibrahimas [Abraham], who was a should I ask Him for anything?’ In short, Allāh love you and forgive you your faults. Prophet of God, reached this stage. Allāh while on the path of spiritual progress, And Allāh is Most Forgiving, Merciful.’ says about him: man goes so far that he ascends above and beyond even the angelic qualities. He That is, O Prophet! Say to them ‘I am the ۡ َ َ َ ٗ َ ُّ ٗۤ َ ۡ ۡ َ َ َ ۡ َ ۡ ُ َ ّ ۡ ٰ َ ۡ َ then becomes an embodiment of divine beloved of God, and if you also wish to be ِاذ قال لہ ربہ اس ِلم ۙ قال اسلمت لِر ِب العل ِمین ۝ (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:132) attributes, and gives himself into the loved by Him, then follow me.’ hands of God like a weapon which moves َ submit], and strikes as God will. To challenge such At this stage, man is not only an] ا ۡس ِل ۡم :That is, when God said Hazrat Ibrahimas replied [I have submitted a person is to invite a contest with God. embodiment of Divine attributes, his to the Lord of the worlds]. Hence, one Every action of such a person is devoted to spiritual progress attains to a point where station of man was such that he can be seeking Allāh’s pleasure. It is this spiritual he severs his ties with all other things counted as being from among the angels. station of which the Holy Prophetsa said beside God, and one cannot reach God At that stage he thought he could do that when man, having progressed, comes except through him.

22 Aḥmadiyya Gazette In short, these are the stages of man’s enlightenment, one can never suffer About Hazrat Abu Bakrra the Holy Prophetsa spiritual senses which God has illustrated remissness. God has thus spoken of this said, ‘He has not gained excellence due to in the Holy Qur’ān. The more one excels stage: prayers; rather on account of that which in them, the more his spiritual station is ٰ ۡ ُّ ۡ َ َّ َ ُ ۡ ٰ َ ۡ َ ُ ۡ َ َ َ lies in his heart.’ As for prayers, they were ,offered by other people as well. Even today و ما ین ِطق ع ِن الہوی ؕ ۝ ِان ہو ِالا وح ٌی یوحی ۝ raised. The Holy Prophetsa had attained to such a high stage of spiritual progress that (Surah An-Najam, 53:4–5) we see non-Ahmadis offering prayers. Let he described it as: alone the stage attained by the Companions That is, when someone becomes Our true of the Prophetsa, do they attain to the stage servant, then his words are not his but of even an ordinary believer? They are not تنام عیین والینام قلیب Ours. He no longer speaks from his own even worthy of the rewards that can be or that ‘my eyes asleep, but my heart is desire. attained by performing minor services always awake.’ He would sleep sometimes, to the believer. In fact, most of them are but then offer the prayers without making This stage marks the pinnacle of human wicked and sinful. There is no other reason ablution. His heart was blessed with such excellence. I advise you that if you desire for their being unrighteous except that transcendent spiritual enlightenment that spiritual progress, you should try to they are not conscious of what they are his senses would remain absolutely pure enhance your spiritual senses. Sin takes doing. even while asleep. That is why when he birth when one is devoid of these spiritual was asked why he had started the prayer senses. Take for instance prostitutes. They You need to be conscious of what you do. without making ablution, whereas before too give alms, but do they get the reward? None of your actions should be based on that he was snoring during the sleep. He No, never! The reason is that their alms mere habit or tradition. Instead, all of them said, ‘My eyes sleep, but the heart remains are not based on a desire to seek divine should be performed with a view to seeking awake.’ He would always be in such a state pleasure; rather it is to avert punishment. divine pleasure. For your convenience, of vision that many a time he would get If their alms were based on the true intent I must also elaborate here the ways to to know the inner state of the hearts of for seeking divine pleasure and fear of achieve this goal; but before I speak of those offering prayers behind him. This the Almighty, why would they commit them, I must also explain that some people is evident from the authentic ahadith. adultery in the first place? suffer a serious misunderstanding. Hence, when in such a state of spiritual

BLESSINGS OF KHILĀFAT BY HAZRAT MIRZĀ BASHĪRUD-DĪN MAḤMUD AḤMAD KHALĪFATUL-MASĪH IIRA

English translation of Barakāt Khilāfat

This book consists of the addresses of Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ IIra during the first Jalsa Sālāna of his Khilāfat in 1914. Huzoorra gave a detailed account of the events after the demise of Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Ira and his election to the august office. Huzoorra also addressed the issues facing the Jamā‘at – Politics, marriages between Aḥmadīs and non-Ahmadīs, Zakāt, settlement of disputes, doctrinal issues, and several others. His insights on these points are as pertinent today as they were then.

23 REPORT

JALSA MASĪḤ MAU‘ŪD 2021, JAMĀ‘AT VAUGHAN

Ghulam Ahmad Abid, Secretary Ishā‘at Vaughan

arch 23rd is commemo- Murabbi Ṣāḥib began his speech by reciting his mission spreading the word of Allāh rated by the Ahmadiyya verse 22 of Surah Al-Mujadilah chapter and reforming mankind, the Lord of the Muslim Jamā‘at every 58: “Allāh has decreed: Most surely I will heavens took this commission upon Himself year. It is on this day prevail, I and my Messengers. Verily Allāh and through His mercy and guardianship, that the Promised is Powerful Mighty.” the Promised Messiahas succeeded in his Messiahas launched his Divine mission to claim. Respected Murabbi Ṣāḥib quoted Mrevive the true teachings of Islām in the verses 45-47 of Surah Al-Haqqah from the world. Like all other Jamā‘ats, Vaughan Holy Qur’ān where Allāh says : “And if he also celebrated this day and held a General had forged and attributed any sayings to Body Meeting for the purpose of discussing Us, We would surely have seized him by different aspects of this subject. This Jalsa the right hand, and then surely We would was held virtually on the 23 March, 2021, have severed his life-artery.” He explained and the program began at 8 PM. Upon the that the same criteria applies to the claim request of Respected Muhammad Zubair of the Promised Messiahas. If he published Mangla Ṣāḥib, Local Amir Jamā‘at Vaughan, the revelations he received, and lived long Maulana Abdul-Rashid Anwar Ṣāḥib, after their publication, and God did not Missionary In-Charge Canada presided only spare him but even helped him, then over the Jalsa. The program began with we have to admit that he was a true one Murabbi Arslan Warraich Ṣāḥib recitation of Surah Al-Jumu‘uah verses 1-5 sent by God. by Raza-ur-Rehman Dard Ṣāḥib of Halqa Murabbi Sahib said that since the Vaughan East. The English translation beginning of time, no prophet has ever Murabbi Ṣāḥib presented an excerpt from was presented by Umer Farooq Ṣāḥib made a claim without facing opposition Noah’s Ark, a book of the Promised Messiahas of Halqa Woodbridge South, and the from every direction. In order to prove and said, that these are the words of the Urdu translation was presented by the truthfulness of His messengers, God divine messenger of this age. It was about Rana Muhammad Zikriya Ṣāḥib of Halqa Almighty helps and supports them by him that the Holy Prophetsa had said that Maple. After this, Imran Hafeez Ṣāḥib manifesting extraordinary signs. This even if faith were to go up to the Pleiades, of Halqa Kleinburg beautifully recited a practice has never changed, and indeed he would surely find it. He is the light of poem titled “Munajaat aur Tabligh Haqq’’ the examples of this Divine support have this age and so he affectionately called him written by the Promised Messiahas. The been witnessed throughout the history our Mahdi. English translation of the poem was of prophets—from prophet Noahas presented by Farass Chaudhary Ṣāḥib also successfully reaching safety during the In the end he said that each one of us has of Halqa Kleinburg. Following this, the Ten great flood to prophet Abrahamas survivng a responsibility and a role to play in the Conditions of Baī‘at were read out; first in the fire. fulfilment of the divine promises given to Urdu by Respected Tariq Ahmad Mohsin the Promised Messiahas, and he prayed that Ṣāḥib, Professor Jāmi‘a Aḥmadiyya Canada Divine support and help is also evident may Allāh enable us to stand witness to and then in English by Respected Adam at every step in the life of the greatest of these fulfilments. Amīn! Abid-Alexander Ṣāḥib, Local Missionary all the prophets, the pride of the world, Vaughan. the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad, The second speech was delivered by the Chosen Onesa when the blood thirsty Maulana Mirza Muhammad Afzal Ṣāḥib, The first speech of the program was enemies were attacking from all sides, and Missionary Vaughan on the topic of “Zikr delivered by Respected Murabbi Arslan plotting to kill him. Habib.” At the beginning, Respected Warraich Ṣāḥib, Missionary Vaughan on Murabbi Ṣāḥib recited verse 119 of the topic of “The Signs of Masīḥ Mau‘ūdas.” When the Promised Messiahas initiated Surah Taubah in which Allāh says, “O

24 Aḥmadiyya Gazette Respected Murabbi Ṣāḥib continued by build a new Jamia building. Come forward saying that, as you and I know, whenever and seek Allāh’s blessing from heaven we get the chance to see our beloved directly, by spending your wealth in his Huzoor Anwaraa, we request his prayers. If you look at the life of the Promised Messiahas he was busy all his life. One of his companions Hazrat Maulvi Muhammad Ibrahim Bakapuri Ṣāḥibra says that I once said Huzoor, I often forget things and I don’t know what to do. He said that Maulana Mirza Muhammad Afzal Ṣāḥib Huzooras looked at me and smiled, and then he said what you should do is offer you who believe, fear Allāh and be with this prayer: the truthful.” He said that interestingly, being with someone is usually thought Maulana Abdul-Rashid Anwar Ṣāḥib رب كل شيء خادمك رب فاحفظني وانصرني وارحمني to be a physical relationship, but when it comes to being with those people who are He then mentioned an example of the way. In the end, he prayed, May Allāh forever living, you do not need to have a Promised Messiah’sas humility related bless all of you. May Allāh bless us so that physical relationship, it is your faith and to Mira Bakhsh and said that with this we become examples for all the Candian your feeling and your entire being and incident, the Promised Messiahas taught Jamā‘ats. personality in their company. Zikr Habib us that we need to understand that those literally means talking about your beloved, who become dust, they are the ones who Following this speech, Kamran Ashraf and today since we are celebrating Masīḥ find God and the Promised Messiahas lived Chaudhry Ṣāḥib of Halqa Woodbridge Mau‘ūd day, I will be talking about his that life to prove it to us. North made some announcements. personality and a few incidents which I have chosen to walk through. Hazrat Munshi Zafar Ahmad Ṣāḥibra from Before silent prayers, respected Maulana Kapoorthala, narrates that once the Abdul-Rashid Anwar Ṣāḥib delivered a One thing which is obvious in his lifestyle Promised Messiahas was in the court of a short concluding address. He quoted a which he wanted to inculcate in us and Hindu magistrate. He asked the Promised hadith and presented its translation. He plant in us was the remembrance of Messiahas that you have published a then said this is a very important period we Allāh, and specifically the five daily revelation in which you say that “I are passing through; and we are fortunate prayers. When we see his entire life, it will humiliate anybody who will try to we live in this time of the Khalīfa of is very obvious that this was one of the humiliate you.” He asked, is this what Allāh, the Imām Mahdi. This is the time things that he would never miss. This is God told you? The Promised Messiahas of the victory of Islam. There are many one of the things that he would always answered, yes. He again asked the same examples of companions of the Promised talk to the companions about and when question and the Promised Messiahas said Messiahas who travelled to visit him, and they would come up to him he would say yes, no doubt. Then, he went to the next did the Baī‘at. He mentioned Hazrat Syed to them that make sure you take care step and asked “how about me if I did it?” Mehmood Alam Ṣāḥibra, who decided to go of your prayers. It is once narrated by The Promised Messiahas said yes, anybody. to Qadian to visit the Promised Messiahas. Hazrat Ummul Mu’minīnra the wife of He travelled from Bihar mostly on foot. the Promised Messiahas that one day the He then mentioned a light hearted moment When he arrived in Qadian, his feet were Promised Messiah told her that I was once between the Promised Messiahas and his very bruised and covered with blood appearing in a court. While I was waiting, wife Hazrat Ummul Mu’minīnra narrated but he was extremely happy, and said the time for prayer came so without any by a lady named Amatur-Rehman Ṣāḥiba. how fortunate I am that I have visited hesitation I started my prayer. While I was Respected Murabbi Ṣāḥib said that the Promised Messiahas and did Baī‘at. engaged in prayer my name was being how beautiful is this, that a man of God Today, Huzoor Anwaraa himself comes to called in the court but I kept praying. He spends his time with his wife, with this our homes through MTA. We should listen, said that when I finished my prayer, I saw type of lighter mood. We all should follow and follow his instructions and understand that one of the employees of the court was this beautiful example of the Promised that this is the time of the victory of Islam. standing next to me and he said to me, Messiahas. We must fulfill our responsibility to spread congratulations, you have won the case. the message of Islam. We should keep Here the Promised Messiahas proved to all Then, respected Murabbi Ṣāḥib spoke ourselves and our children attached with of us that when you give the preference to about the generosity of the Promised Khilāfat. May Allāh help us to do so. In God and you give the importance to your Messiahas and he presented a hadith about the end, Respected Missionary In-Charge prayers like this, rest assured that God will spending in the way of Allāh. He informed Ṣāḥib led the silent prayers. The estimated take care of you. the attendees that markaz has decided to attendance was 1,100.

25 Aḥmadiyya Muslim Jamā‘at Press Releases

The following press releases have been provided by Press & Media Office, Aḥmadiyya Muslim Jamā‘at

Mubarak Mosque, UK

MAJLIS ANSARULLAH AUSTRALIA HAVE HONOUR OF VIRTUAL MEETING WITH WORLD HEAD OF AḤMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY

n 6 March 2021, the National During the meeting His Holinessaa His Holinessaa further outlined the Majlis ‘Amila (Executive) of emphasised the need for Majlis Ansarullah responsibilities of Majlis Ansarullah Majlis Ansarullah Australia members to focus on the five daily prayers. members in improving the moral training (Ahmadiyya Muslim Elders of their family members. Association) and regional Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: leaders were granted a virtual official Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: Omeeting and audience with the World Head The Ansar should be worried about the of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Hereafter and so 100% of them should be The Ansarullah members should be Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness Hazrat doing their five daily prayers...Their age is encouraged to adopt a habit of reciting Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa. increasing and so they should be concerned the Holy Qur’an. They should analyse even more than others. A poet once said, their own family to see if their children His Holinessaa presided the meeting from ‘As the bird of time flies higher, the shadow are reciting the Holy Qur’an and offering his office in Islamabad, Tilford, whilst the of one’s age fades along.’ So, if you think the daily prayers. ‘Amila members joined from the Khilafat about this, it should create a sense of Hall at the Baitul Huda Mosque complex deep anxiety and anguish. Therefore, say This is also part of the responsibility of the (national headquarters) at Marsden Park, to the members of Ansarullah that, at members of Majlis Ansarullah. Similarly, a suburb in the Greater Sydney region. the very least, they should offer the five there should be some arrangements made daily prayers and those who are able to, for regularly reading excerpts from the During the 65-minute meeting, all present should offer it in congregation. If their writings of Promised Messiahas or other had the opportunity to speak to His prayer centre or Mosque is too distant, religious teachings in the home (dars). Holiness and the National ‘Amila members they should arrange for the prayers to be were able to present a report about their offered in congregation in their homes. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa continued: respective departments and to receive the In this way, their next generation will guidance and instructions of His Holiness automatically develop within themselves As we move further away from the on a range of issues. an understanding of the great importance time of the Promised Messiahas, the and significance of the five daily prayers. responsibility to train one’s children lays

26 Aḥmadiyya Gazette even heavier upon the shoulders of the not turning towards the message of the Continuing, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa members of Ansarullah in order for them Promised Messiahas in the way that it should said: to appropriately take care of their future be, despite the fact that punishments are generations. If Majlis Ansarullah does not descending upon the world. Such a state of affairs has been mentioned fulfil its duties in this regard it will lead in the Holy Qur’an that when a punishment to grave problems, as our members would In response, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa is inflicted upon a people, they pray and become engrossed in worldliness in the said that in bygone eras people also failed call out for Allah that if He removes the years ahead. to heed the message of the prophets and affliction, they will reform themselves. so they were punished by God Almighty. However, when the punishment is As the meeting progressed, His Holinessaa averted, they again become indulged in instructed the Waqar-e-Amal Secretary Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: materialism. This is the current state of (Dignity of Labour) to start a nationwide the worldly people. Eventually, if they drive to plant trees in vast numbers. His The Promised Messiahas has written do not pay heed and do not understand, Holiness said it was particularly important that if people do not heed the message, they will be destroyed. Nations before to plant trees given the fact that bushfires the punishments of God Almighty will too have been ruined and now again they have ravaged many forests in Australia in continue to afflict mankind and it would are being devastated and gradually they recent times. lead to their destruction. The Promised will disappear, whilst pious people will

His Holinessaa also advised for Ansar members to be encouraged to take up bike- riding to improve their health and also to Our responsibility is to propagate the help the environment. message of Islam and to reach every single aa Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: person” – Hazrat Mirza Masroor Aḥmad

“Encourage the members of Ansarullah to use bicycles. At least on short distances Messiahas has also stated that it is not continue to reform themselves. they should use bicycles instead of using absolutely necessary even that people cars and motorbikes or something else. must accept Islam and the Ahmadiyya His Holinessaa emphasized that Ahmadi So, Majlis Ansarullah should also play its Muslim Community for divine punishment Muslims must continue to peacefully role to clean the environment by using to be averted. Rather, if people fulfil the deliver the message of Islam. bicycles.” obligations of Allah the Almighty and His people, and if they desist from indulging Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: One of the attendees asked His Holinessaa in indecency and sins, even then God what the members of Majlis Ansarullah Almighty’s mercy will manifest itself and Our job is to warn people and to deliver could do to lower divorce rates amongst people will be saved. the message of Islam. Our responsibility Ahmadi Muslims. is to propagate the message of Islam and Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa continued: to reach every single person. After that, In response, Hazrat Mirza Masroor it is up to Allah the Almighty to guide Ahmadaa said: In the recent past, I have written letters people. We should continue our work with to world leaders in which I informed diligence and by doing so we would fulfil The cause of many divorces is the fact that them with reference to the writings of the our obligations. We should also pray that materialism and worldliness have taken Promised Messiahas that if the people do Allah the Almighty may guide the people root, whilst patience and forbearance are not pay heed to fulfilling the rights of God and that nations may be saved from being discarded. Mistakes and faults are and His Creation, then the punishments destruction... If we fulfil our obligations made by both the men and the women. of Allah the Almighty will descend. Even with diligence and devotion then we will Though they pledge to give precedence now you can see that when Covid-19 came, not be held responsible for others. to their faith over the world, they do or when any natural disaster occurs like a not heed the saying of the Holy Prophet tsunami, storm or earthquake, some people Muhammadsa that when finding suitable do turn fleetingly towards religion and call matrimonial matches, they should always out for the name of God in whichever way give precedence to faith over materialism, they know. They try to reform themselves physical beauty and wealth. If they were so that they may fulfil the rights of one to keep this in mind there would be less another and of Allah. However, when the problems. punishment subsides, they go back to their old materialistic ways.” One person asked why the world was

27 MAJLIS KHUDDAMUL AḤMADIYYA NIGERIA HAVE HONOUR OF VIRTUAL MEETING WITH WORLD HEAD OF AḤMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY

The National ‘Amila of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya have official meeting with His Holinessaa

n 7 March 2021, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa held a virtual online meeting Owith the National ‘Amila (Executive) of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Nigeria (Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Auxiliary), as well as regional Qaideen.

His Holinessaa presided the meeting from his office in Islamabad, Tilford, whilst the ‘Amila members joined the meeting virtually from the Lajna Hall in Ojokoro in Lagos, Nigeria. Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa presiding the virtual meeting During the 40-minute meeting, all present had the opportunity to speak to comprehensive plans to assist with the exactly what their duties are. Thereafter, His Holinessaa and the National ‘Amila moral and spiritual enhancement of the you should make your plans according members were able to present a report members of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. to the constitution. In your next ‘Amila about their respective departments and meeting you must analyse what are the to receive the guidance and instructions Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: shortcomings of your work and where of His Holinessaa on a range of issues. you must strive to improve. So make a All your Mohtamimeen (National countrywide plan and then work hard to As the meeting concluded, His Holinessaa Secretaries) should study the constitution achieve your targets. emphasized the importance of devising of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and see

MEMBERS OF MAJLIS ATFALUL AḤMADIYYA USA HAVE HONOUR OF A VIRTUAL MEETING WITH THE HEAD OF THE AḤMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY

His Holinessaa gives guidance on a range of contemporary issues affecting young people in society

n 28 March 2021, the World Mosque in Silver Spring, Maryland, which their prayers are accepted by Allah the Head of the Ahmadiyya serves as the national headquarters of the Almighty. Muslim Community, the Fifth Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA. Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, In response, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Hazrat Mirza Masroor Following a formal session starting with Ahmadaa said: Ahmadaa held a virtual online meeting with recitation of the Holy Qur’an, members Omembers of Majlis Atfalul Ahmadiyya from of Majlis Atfalul Ahmadiyya had the The Holy Prophet Muhammadsa has himself the United States aged between 10 and 15. opportunity to ask His Holinessaa a series taught us how to supplicate that when you of questions regarding their faith and are praying you should first send Durood His Holinessaa presided the meeting from contemporary issues. upon the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa... In his office in Islamabad, Tilford, whilst the one of the sayings of the Holy Prophet members of Majlis Atfalul Ahmadiyya His Holinessaa was asked how a person can Muhammadsa it is said that, ‘Your were gathered at the Baitur Rahman supplicate to God Almighty in a way that supplications will remain suspended in the

28 Aḥmadiyya Gazette air if you do not recite Durood [salutations upon the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa] with your prayer. So the best way for your The Holy Qur’an is the Word of Allah the supplication to be accepted by Allah the Almighty and so, by memorising it your Almighty is that you recite Durood and then pray for whatever else you want to mental capabilities will improve and you seek guidance on or Allah’s help. will gain wisdom and knowledge. One boy, who mentioned he was memorizing the Holy Qur’an, asked how when the Promised Messiahas was alive. Allah the Almighty... So try to make your he could better serve the cause of the So the Caliphs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim life according to the teachings of the Holy Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as a Waqf Community wear the turban to continue Qur’an. This is how you can gain the love Nau and eventually as a someone who had that tradition. There is no special of Allah the Almighty and the love of the committed the memorisation of the Holy significance of the turban itself; only Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Qur’an to heart. that the Promised Messiahas used to wear one. This is why the Caliphs also wear the One of the Atfal asked His Holinessaa how Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: turban. he is able to answer so many questions in great detail during the various meetings The Holy Qur’an is the Word of Allah the Speaking about wearing the sherwani, and question and answer sessions His Almighty and so, by memorising it your Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: Holinessaa holds. mental capabilities will improve and you will gain wisdom and knowledge. One thing you should also remember is that Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: Therefore, you should continue to the Promised Messiahas and the first and memorise the Holy Qur’an and when you second Caliphs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim I learn quite a lot of things from you memorise it, you should also learn its Community never wore a sherwani. Rather, people. When you ask a question, then it translation and seek to understand its they used to wear a long coat. Only the comes into my mind that what should be meanings.” third Caliph, the fourth Caliph and then the answer. Further, if you are reciting the I have worn sherwani. Sherwani is not a Holy Qur’an regularly, there are quite a Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa further tradition but it is a good and appropriate number of points which immediately come said: dress which matches shalwar and kameez to mind that have been explained in the and this is why we wear it. Holy Qur’an. Or if you read the Hadith then As I said, when you memorise the Holy sometimes you will remember a Hadith Qur’an it increases your wisdom, provided Another child asked what practical steps in respect of the particular subject and you are memorising it for the sake of should be taken to inculcate the love of sometimes the books of the Promised gaining the pleasure of Allah and for Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophet Messiahas have also explained some of the the sake of attaining the knowledge of Muhammadsa in one’s hearts above all else. subject matters which are under question Allah’s Book. So, on the one hand Allah the during the questions and answers. Almighty will be pleased with you and, on Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: the other, your intellect and understanding Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa continued: will become broader. And when your As I have already said, if you want to knowledge and wisdom increases, you have your prayers accepted, you should Sometimes when I feel that I cannot answer will naturally become a useful asset for invoke Durood upon the Holy Prophet the question fully and appropriately then I the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. So Muhammadsa. Further, to gain the love of try to learn more about that subject. I don’t in whichever capacity you will serve and Allah the Almighty and the Holy Prophet feel shy if a question is asked by a small whatever education you have, you will Muhammadsa, you should practice all child and I cannot answer it fully. Then I be a very good asset for the Ahmadiyya the commandments given by Allah the would go home and read relevant books Muslim Community if you memorise the Almighty in the Holy Qur’an. and find out the answer and if possible, Holy Qur’an. I will write back to the person with the There are many commandments and correct answer. Another attendee asked what the reason is injunctions in the Holy Qur’an, almost that the Caliphs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim 700 or more. If you are practicing all of Someone asked where heaven is, to which Community and the Promised Messiahas them, you will gain the love of Allah the Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa replied: wear a dress of turban and sherwani Almighty. That is one thing. The other very (traditional long coat-like garment). important thing is that you must offer Allah the Almighty has said in the Holy the five times daily prayers regularly and Qur’an that there is heaven in this world Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: concentrate your attention fully towards and in the Hereafter. What is heaven? Allah the Almighty. Your prayers should When you do good actions and please Allah A turban was a tradition in the time be very much filled with a deep love for the Almighty, then Allah the Almighty

29 gives you its due reward and so when you siblings and to your fellow classmates and Islam say that Islam is a cruel religion, do a good deed, it becomes a heaven for schoolmates. but this incident shows that even those you... who brutally treated him and injured him, One of the Atfal members asked His even then he did not try to take revenge. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa further Holiness about an incident from the life It shows how vast his mercy was and how stated: of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa when merciful he was. he went to preach in a town called Tai’f. Allah the Almighty has mentioned that The town’s chiefs rejected him and cruelly Highlighting another aspect of the heaven spans the skies and the earth. pelted him with stones. When the Holy incident, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa When the companions of the Holy Prophet Prophet Muhammadsa took some rest in said: Muhammadsa asked that ‘If heaven is a garden, an angel appeared and asked if spanning across the skies and the earth, he should destroy the town because its Further, the Holy Prophetsa said to the then where is hell?’ The Holy Prophet people had tormented the Holy Prophet angels, ‘You wait, if these people do not Muhammadsa replied that just as there is Muhammadsa. accept me, their progeny will accept me.’ a day and night, so too is there heaven And this was a prophecy also and it came and hell. The boy asked His Holiness why the Holy true. After the victory of Mecca, those Prophet Muhammadsa prevented the angel people accepted Islam. Now you can see One boy asked His Holiness what he could from destroying the people of Ta’if. the progenies of those people are Muslim. do to become a good Waqf Nau. So that was the purpose of not destroying Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa replied: those people. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said: This was the mercy of the Holy Prophet As the meeting concluded, His Holinessaa You should offer the five daily prayers, Muhammadsa, because Allah the Almighty said that those who could not get the read the Holy Qur’an daily and understand says in the Holy Qur’an that the Holy chance to ask questions could write to him and memorise as much as you can. Do Prophetsa is a mercy for the whole of and he would respond to their questions good deeds. Be polite and gentle to your mankind. Those people who are against in writing.

LAJNA IMA’ILLAH GERMANY HAVE HONOUR OF VIRTUAL MEETING WITH WORLD HEAD OF AHMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY

n 27 March 2021, the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Upon the fulfilment of 100 years of Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness Lajna Ima’illah, every member of Lajna Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa held a virtual online meeting with and Nasirat should be fully involved in Omembers of the National ‘Amila (Executive) the affairs of the Aḥmadiyya Muslim of Lajna Ima’illah Germany (Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Auxiliary). Community and should be acting upon

His Holinessaa presided the meeting from our teachings” his office in Islamabad, Tilford, whilst the – Hazrat Mirza Masroor Aḥmadaa ‘Amila members joined from the Baitus Subuh complex in Frankfurt, which serves as the National Headquarters of activities of their departments. major humanitarian project in Africa. the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Germany. Speaking to the National Secretary Addressing the National Secretary Khidmat Khalq, responsible for service to responsible for the moral and spiritual During the meeting, His Holinessaa outlined humanity, His Holiness said that similar training of new converts to the Ahmadiyya the various responsibilities assigned to to Lajna Ima’illah UK – who are building a Muslim Community, His Holiness said that the respective Lajna ‘Amila members maternity hospital in Sierra Leone – Lajna new converts will be impacted by their and gave guidance on improving the Ima’illah Germany should strive to fund a in-laws and so there should be a focus on

30 Aḥmadiyya Gazette trying to better the moral and spiritual training of the families they marry into.

His Holinessaa also advised the Secretary Tarbiyyat, responsible for the general moral and spiritual training of Ahmadi Muslims, to tailor their religious training in a way that is appropriate to each individual.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa said:

Assess how many, and to what extent, the Lajna members practice and express their religion and are regular with regards their prayers, recitation of the Holy Qur’an and the standard of their religious knowledge. Then similarly assess how many of them are at a lower level than this. See how many of them follow the required standards of Purdah or Hijab according to the Islamic teachings. You cannot have the same approach for every person. Syednā Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masīḥ Vaa presiding the virtual meeting Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa further stated: As the meeting concluded, one ‘Amila are actually involved in their activities... You should have a Tarbiyyat programme member asked how they could best So, the most important way to honour for those who observe Purdah and are celebrate the 100 years of the establishment and mark 100 years of Lajna Ima’illah is practicing their faith and then you should of Lajna Ima’illah that is approaching in to ascertain the true standards of faith of have a separate programme for those who December 2022. your members. You should make a scheme are at a lower level. You should guide for this. them and train them according to their In response, Hazrat Mirza Masroor circumstances and suited to their particular Ahmadaa stated: needs and requirements. Furthermore, you should guide converts according to their What truly matters is that upon the particular circumstances. So you will need fulfilment of 100 years of Lajna Ima’illah, to develop various religious and moral every member of Lajna and Nasirat training programmes to suit the needs of should be fully involved in the affairs of all members. the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and should be acting upon our teachings. All Speaking to both the Student Affairs of them should be regular in the worship Secretary and also the Waqf Nau of Allah and in reciting and acting upon Secretary, His Holinessaa said that they the Holy Qur’an. Every member should should encourage more students to go have the strongest possible bond with the into medicine so they can go on to serve Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. in the hospitals and medical facilities of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa continued: deprived parts of the world. Of utmost importance is that upon the His Holinessaa directed the Sehat Jismānī completion of 100 years of Lajna Ima’illah, Secretary, responsible for Health and no person should be able to raise their Fitness, to motivate the Lajna members finger and say that though 100 years have to be active and to regularly exercise. His been completed and they are celebrating Holinessaa said that older members should their centenary, however only 75% of go out for regular walks. their members or 50% of their members

31 COVID-19 Fact Sheet stay home stay safe help others #HFCares

As COVID-19 continues to spread, there are things we can all do to keep each other and ourselves safe. Stay informed and take all necessary precautions to ensure we are doing our part to help the government and frontline workers combat the virus.

SOME ARE AT • Change your routine to avoid HIGH RISK crowded places, such as going COMMUNICATE to the grocery store at off peak hours. Anyone with pre-existing medical • Communicate with your health- conditions and/ or a weakened im- • Keep at least a 2 arms length (or care provider. They will help mune system is at a higher risk. 2m) distance from others ensure you have enough prescribed medication and medical • Avoid all nonessential travel This includes seniors and those with supplies. the following conditions: • put a system in place to regular- • Heart disease HYGIENE MEASURES ly check on family and friends • Hypertension via phone or email. • Lung disease • Wash your hands frequently ac- • Diabetes cording to the World Health Or- STAY INFORMED • Cancer ganization’s guidelines and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when not available. • Learn about the symptoms of Covid-19, how it spreads and HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISK • Avoid touching your face and preventative measures you can food with your hands take STAY HOME • Ensure your information is com- BE PREPARED ing from reputable sources, such Stay home if possible and limit the as Public Health Agency of Can- number of visitors at your home ada and the World Heath Orga- PLAN AHEAD nization. • Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces in your home regularly • Monitor yourself for symptoms • Stock up on necessary supplies • Give yourself a break from the If you must step outside, please in case you need to stay at home news and find time to relax take the following measures: for a few weeks. • Avoid touching high touch sur- • Identify services that can deliv- Visit canada.ca/coronavirus for faces er food and medications more info

Contact Humanity First: +1 416 440-0346 humanityfirst.ca [email protected] Twitter: @humanityfirst PRAYERS FOR THE CURRENT PANDEMIC COVID-19 Fact Sheet In these days, we should pay special attention to the study of Kashti-e-Nooh (Noah’s Arc) and arrange regular Dars of this book in our homes. stay home stay safe help others #HFCares In the current situation, whereas Syedna Hazrat Khalīfatul-Masiḥ V (May Allah be his Helper!) has advised us to take other precautionary measures, Huzoor aa has also urged us to turn to Allah in repentance and pray. as As COVID-19 continues to spread, there are things we Therefore, some prayers from the Holy Qur’an, Ahadith and prayers of the Promised Messiah can all do to keep each other and ourselves safe. Stay are given below: informed and take all necessary precautions to ensure we are doing our part to help the government and Prayer of Hazrat Ayubas Prayer for Protection from Pandemics frontline workers combat the virus. Hazrat Ayubas supplicated to seek cure from his illness During a pandemic, God Almighty conveyed it and presented his weak state for attracting Allah’s the Promised Messiah as that, as a remedy against it, • Change your routine to avoid SOME ARE AT mercy. This prayer was accepted and, miraculously, Allah should be remembered through His following crowded places, such as going COMMUNICATE HIGH RISK the affliction was removed. attributes: to the grocery store at off peak ْ .hours یَا َح ِف ْي ُظ۔ یَا َعزِیْ ُز۔ یَا َرفِْي ُق َان ِّْی َمسنِی ُّالضر َو َان َت َا ْر َح ُم الر ِح ِم ْی َن -Anyone with pre-existing medical • Communicate with your health َّ َ ُّ ّٰ care provider. They will help conditions and/ or a weakened im- • Keep at least a 2 arms length (or Affliction has touched me, and Thou art the O Protector, O Almighty, O Companion ensure you have enough pre- mune system is at a higher risk. 2m) distance from others Most Merciful of all who show mercy. (21:84) (Tadhkirah, p,660) scribed medication and medical • Avoid all nonessential travel َ This includes seniors and those with supplies. Prayer of Hazrat Mosesas یا حی یا َقي ْو ُم ِبر ْحم ِت َک أ ْست ِغ ْي ُث :the following conditions َ َ ُّ َ ُّ َ َ َ as • put a system in place to regular- When an earthquake overtook Hazrat Moses and O Ever-Living and Self-Subsisting One, I • Heart disease HYGIENE MEASURES ly check on family and friends the chiefs of his people , Hazrat Mosesas considered it supplicate for Your mercy. (Tadhkirah, p,439) • Hypertension via phone or email. indication of Allah’s displeasure and he supplicated as: as -Lung disease • Wash your hands frequently ac- ْ ْ ْ ْ The Promised Messiah has stated that it was con • َانت و ِلینا َفاغ ِف ْر َلنا و ْارح ْمنا و َانت َخ ْی ُر ال ٰغ ِف ِریْن -Diabetes cording to the World Health Or • of (اسم اعظم) STAY INFORMED َ َ َ َ َ َ َ َُّ َ َ veyed to him that this is the Great Name • Cancer ganization’s guidelines and use Thou art our Protector; forgive us then God and that whoever supplicates with these words an alcohol-based hand sanitizer • Learn about the symptoms of and have mercy on us, for Thou art the would be delivered from every affliction. ْ ْ .when not available ِّرب کُ ُّل َش ٍئ َخ ِاد ُم َک َر ِّب َف ْاحَفظنِی َوان ُص ْرن ِی ْوار َح ْمنِی (Covid-19, how it spreads and Best of those who forgive. (7:156 HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISK • Avoid touching your face and preventative measures you can Prayer for Protection against All Harms O my Lord everything serves You. So O food with your hands take Uthman ibn Affan ra says: I heard the Holy Prophet sa my Lord, protect me and help me and STAY HOME • Ensure your information is com- say: “He who recites this prayer thrice in the morning have mercy on me. (Tadhkirah, p,601) BE PREPARED ing from reputable sources, such and again in the evening every day, God will protect Prayer for Deliverance from Stay home if possible and limit the as Public Health Agency of Can- him from anything which is harmful.” Sufferings and Illness number of visitors at your home ada and the World Heath Orga- ِ ِ ٖ ِ ْ ِ ْ ِب ْس ِ ماهللِ الَّ ِذي َلا َي ُضر مع ْاس ِمهِ َش ْی .PLAN AHEAD nization ُسْب َح َان اهلل َو ِب َح ْمدہ ُسْب َح َان اهلل ال َعظیم ُّ َ َ ٌء Clean and disinfect high touch • ٍ ٍ في ْال َأ ْر ِض وَلا في السما ِوهو الس ِم ُيع ْالع ِل ْیم َاللّٰ ُھ َّم َص ِّل َعلٰی ُم َحمد َّو ِٰال ُم َحمد ِ َ ِ َّ َ ء َ ُ َ َّ َ ُ surfaces in your home regularly • Monitor yourself for symptoms َّ َّ Stock up on necessary supplies • • Give yourself a break from the In the name of Allah, with Whose name Holy is Allah and worthy of all Praise; Holy If you must step outside, please in case you need to stay at home news and find time to relax nothing can harm in the earth and in is Allah, the Great. Allah, bestow Your take the following measures: for a few weeks. Heaven, and He is All-Hearing, All- blessings on Muhammad and the people of • Avoid touching high touch sur- • Identify services that can deliv- Visit canada.ca/coronavirus for Knowing. (Sunan Abi Dawood: 5088) Muhammad. (Tiryaqul-Qulub, pp. 36–37, more info faces er food and medications Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 15, pp. 208–209)

Contact Humanity First: +1 416 440-0346 humanityfirst.ca [email protected] Twitter: @humanityfirst Department of Tarbiyat, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama‘at Canada Updated March 18, 2020