Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira (1875-1957)
Meeting with Colonel Douglas
In the evening [of 21 September 1924] at 4 pm, a meeting was scheduled with Colonel Douglas. Colonel Douglas is the same Montagu William Douglas CSI, CIE. (1863 – 1957) who dismissed the case of Henry Martyn Clark. The proceedings of this case are documented in [the book of the Promised Messiahas], Kitab-ul-Bariyyah. At that time, I simultaneously published the accounts of this case under the title, The Second Holy War.
Colonel Douglas holds a deep admiration and respect for the character and stature of the Promised Messiahas. Wherever he has been, he has consistently spoken of the Promised Messiahas. So, he arrived at the appointed time, and when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] entered, Colonel Douglas stood up respectfully, and affectionately remarked, “You are the son of my friend; I regarded your noble father as a friend.”
Colonel Douglas still remembers the events of that case and often discusses them with his British acquaintances. He recounted [during the meeting], “Let me tell you of a strange coincidence: one day, while discussing the case with Mr Coldstream, a boy came in and informed Coldstream that he had received a telegram conveying the news of his father’s passing. This boy was Waris Deen’s son, and I was surprised because only moments earlier, I had mentioned Waris Deen in relation to the case. That boy is probably residing in Lahore now.”
Views on the Montagu Scheme
After a while, the discussion turned to the current political conditions in India. In this context, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] expressed, “In my opinion, the Montagu Scheme is inadequate. It requires significant reforms. My perspective is that the government should have granted one or two entire departments to Indians, allowing them to work independently within them.” Colonel then enquired if the Khalifa had come for the conference, to which he replied, “The conference is not the primary objective, though it has certainly acted as a catalyst. I have come to personally study the situation and develop a comprehensive plan for spreading Islam across European countries.” Colonel expressed his pleasure at meeting the Khalifa, took his leave, and departed.
Tea reception for European new converts
On the same day at 5 pm, a tea reception was organised for European new converts. After the Asr prayer, friends began to gather, and a large number of new convert brothers and sisters attended this gathering. After tea, discussions continued with Huzoor[ra] until 8 pm in the evening, during which various issues were raised. Among these were questions about shaking hands with women and the practice of polygamy, with women specifically asking about these topics. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] explained that in Islam, [the practice of men] shaking hands [with women] is not permitted. The newly converted women were pleased with this teaching, acknowledging its necessity and importance. However, they added that due to earlier habits, they instinctively extend their hands, so they would make an effort to reduce this practice and prevent their children from adopting it as well.
Regarding polygamy, they accepted that, in certain circumstances, it is necessary. When they were informed that Islam allows a woman to stipulate in her marriage contract that her husband will not marry another wife, they found this very reassuring. This gathering continued for a long time. The new converts were keen to receive literature and edification, and Huzoor[ra] regarded their request with attention and appreciation. Some men and women remained until dinner, continuing to benefit from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s[ra] insights at the dining table. A sense of great spirit is emerging among the European new converts, and they are beginning to respect Islamic traditions. Some friends travelled many miles to attend the gathering and faced considerable difficulty on their return journey due to rain. However, they left joyful and content, feeling that they had gained new knowledge in [Huzoor’sra] company. The message of Islam Ahmadiyyat was conveyed openly, and they were enlightened with the teachings of the Jamaat.
Spirit of organisational discipline within the Jamaat
Before the Maghrib and Isha prayers, various issues were discussed. Regarding the spirit of organisational discipline, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] stated, “I wish to cultivate a spirit of organisational discipline within our Jamaat. I want to establish principles where individuals do not interfere with each other’s responsibilities. Those appointed to a position, and those assigned a task, should recognise their duties and obligations. If someone attempts to intervene, they should protect their rightful authority. Interference in each other’s work could have grave consequences; if, God forbid, the Khalifa becomes frail, the Jamaat could fall into disarray. Therefore, interference in organisational matters should be avoided. In terms of work, while I may be pleased that tasks were accomplished in a couple of days, this satisfaction is personal, not collective. True happiness will only come when work is done in accordance with organisational discipline.”
Mail from India
On 22 September 1924, due to mail from India, Huzoorra was occupied until noon, and at 2:30 pm, the religious conference commenced. Combining the Zuhr and Asr prayers, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra], along with his companions, departed to attend the conference session. The sessions were held at the Royal Institute, about a 20-minute walk from our residence. Upon arrival at the Royal Institute’s entrance, a photographer from a journalism society took our photograph.
The proceedings of the conference began precisely on time. Today’s session included only the presidential and opening address by Sir Ross, followed by a lecture on Sanatan Dharma. A separate report on the conference sessions and lectures will be sent later, insha-Allah.
Papers of the religious conference
On 23 September 1924, the conference focused on Islam, with three papers scheduled for presentation on the subject. The first paper, representing the Sunni faith, was to be delivered by Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib, the second onthe Shia faith by Sheikh Khadim Dujaili, and the third on Islam Ahmadiyyat by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra]. Mr Margoliouth chaired the first two lectures, while Sir Theodore Morison chaired the Huzoor’sra address.
This day will be memorable in the history of the conference, marking the historic first in London as the prophecy of the Promised Messiahas, mentioned in Izala-e-Auham, is being fulfilled.
Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib’s paper was scheduled at a time when the audience was still fresh, while our address was at 5 pm, when attendees tend to grow weary. Yet, despite these circumstances, the succour and success manifested by God Almighty during the presentation of this [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’sra] address became evident in the subsequent events.
For a long time, Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib had desired to speak on the same platform as the Hazrat Khalifatul Masihra. God had arranged for this meeting at a venue where Khawaja Sahib had garnered significant fame and influence over 12 years, [as is widely circulated]. Moreover, he had made substantial announcements in the Muslim press of India and advertised his journey to England, declaring that he was going to present Islam. This announcement was also made in the Egyptian press, aiming for a warm reception upon his arrival. On the other hand, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih’s[ra] purpose for attending was not focused on the conference, but rather to devise a lasting plan for the propagation of Islam, which was the actual objective. However, despite his prior announcements, Khawaja Sahib did not attend the event himself. His lecture was not even read out by his successor son and acting imam of Woking, but by Mr Abdullah Yusuf Ali instead.
Mr Abdullah Yusuf Ali was likely unprepared to deliver this address, as he arrived in Western attire with a fresh haircut. Upon learning [his role], he changed into traditional Indian dress, appearing on stage wearing a turban interwoven with golden threads, and an ornate cloak to display the attire of an Indian Muslim. As per the conference’s press note, Lord Headley was initially expected to deliver this address, but his reasons for declining remain unknown. Nevertheless, Mr Yusuf Ali stated before reading the paper that he had not previously read it, comparing his situation to that of a discoverer, and he asked for any errors to be forgiven, attributing them to him as the reader.
I find it completely unnecessary to make any remarks on the quality or content of the paper that was read. While introducing the paper, Mr Margoliouth said, “Khawaja Kamaluddin has translated the Quran into English.” It could be seen as an honour for Khawaja Sahib to receive such credit, without having done the translation, from the esteemed Mr Margoliouth himself. Khawaja Sahib might want to refute this so as not to compromise his moral integrity. However, despite the presence of his son and Lord Headley on stage, no one felt it necessary to correct this mistake. The audience was estimated between 200 and 250. Unfortunately, the lecture could not be completed due to time constraints, which is particularly disappointing as Khawaja Sahib had announced in India that it is no simple feat to deliver a paper within a fixed word limit in a designated time, something he had expressed pride in. It seemed as though this would be an extraordinary lecture, yet it was regrettable that the counted words could not be delivered within the set time.
Paper of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihra
Huzoor’sra address began precisely on time, with Sir Theodore Morison presiding. Such enthusiasm was shown by the audience that people brought chairs close to the stage and tried to secure seats ahead of others, filling the entire hall with listeners. Despite having sat through various lectures throughout the day, not only did those who had attended earlier speeches remain firmly seated, but many more arrived, including intellectuals and notable figures like Dr Walter Walsh.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] ascended the stage accompanied by Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayal[ra], Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard[ra], Maulvi Muhammad Din[ra], Hafiz Roshan Ali[ra], and Khan Zulfiqar Ali Khan[ra]. Sir Theodore Morison introduced Huzoor[ra] and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, taking pride that the Ahmadiyya Movement had emerged within his lifetime. He expressed profound respect, stating that they were honoured by the Khalifa’s presence, as he was the second Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas and the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Movement. He then requested that Huzoor[ra] address the audience.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] stood up and spoke in English, with the audience’s eyes fixed on him, listening intently. Huzoor[ra] said:
“Mr President, sisters, and brothers! First and foremost, I thank God Almighty for inspiring the organisers of this conference to encourage people to reflect on the question of religion in this way and to listen to lectures on different faiths, eventually giving a thought as to which religion should be accepted.
“I then ask Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan Sahib, one of my followers, to read my paper. I am not accustomed to reading papers myself, even in my own language. I usually speak extemporaneously and for as long as six hours at gatherings attended by 10 to 12 thousand people.
“The matter of religion is not limited to this worldly life but continues into the hereafter, and a person’s eternal peace is linked to their faith. Therefore, I urge you to reflect on it thoughtfully, and I hope you will listen with attention.”
Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan[ra] then rose and read the paper in a powerful and impactful way. Although he had been suffering from a sore throat in the days leading up to this, God Almighty supported him as he read, and the audience was filled with a sense of awe and inspiration. By the time the final message was read, the atmosphere was truly remarkable.
At the end of the paper, the president offered his congratulations, and the crowd gathered from all directions. He expressed the audience’s gratitude, which they reciprocated with prolonged cheers according to their custom, so much so that he was unable to speak for quite some time. Amid the applause, the president said, “On behalf of the audience, I thank the Khalifatul Masih for having so beautifully explained the religious truths [to them].” […]
Sir Theodore Morison also remarked that attending to hear such invaluable thoughts was essential, as such insights are not heard every day.
One person commented that it was only through Huzoor[ra] that they came to know about Ahmadiyyat, and that previously, they were not aware of it. Dr Walsh, the head of the Free Church here, who had already been mentioned, is a renowned and eloquent speaker himself. He said, “I am very fortunate to have come here today.” Similarly, a professor of law remarked that this paper would open up a vast field of success for Ahmadiyyat and would be a “turning point.” He expressed his joy as though deeply satiated and satisfied, saying, “If I had spent thousands, I could not have achieved such happiness and success.” He shared that he saw some people literally leaping with joy.
In short, [this paper] is being mentioned everywhere, and expressions of joy are manifest. This day’s newspapers are all echoing these sentiments.
(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 21 October 1924 issue of Al Fazl)