On Sunday, 26 January 2025, a delegation comprising the national amila and local presidents of Lajna Imaillah Switzerland had the blessed opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, at Islamabad (Tilford), UK.
Upon entering, Huzooraa greeted everyone and addressed Sadr Sahiba Lajna, asking about the delegation. After she introduced the group, Huzooraa led the gathering in silent prayer.
Following the prayer, Sadr Sahiba thanked Huzooraa for granting them time for the mulaqat. When Huzooraa enquired about the purpose of the meeting, she explained that the delegation had come to seek guidance on various matters.
After this, several members sought Huzoor’saa advice on challenges they faced in their respective responsibilities. What follows is a summary of the discussions and the invaluable guidance imparted by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.
Engaging inactive members
A member serving as the General Secretary of Lajna Imaillah Switzerland explained that she and her colleagues consistently strove to involve less active majalis in Lajna programmes but faced challenges because those groups remained non-participatory.
Huzooraa responded that, as a small jamaat, Switzerland should serve as a model for others. If some members do not cooperate, efforts should be made to reach out to them, understand their concerns, and determine the best course of action.
Huzooraa underlined the need to plan events that reflected the interests, mindsets, and cultural backgrounds of local members, especially those who had grown up in the West. He advised that Secretary Tarbiyat should directly consult members when designing tarbiyat-related activities, while Secretary Nasirat should engage younger girls to find out which initiatives might attract their interest. By catering to their preferences, he said, individuals could be drawn in gradually and be more willing to cooperate in other Lajna ventures.
At that point, Sadr Sahiba Lajna indicated that inactivity sometimes extended to men within the same households. In response, Huzooraa advised that a coordinated approach should be taken, whereby both men and women could be encouraged to engage more in Jamaat programmes. Huzooraa reminded everyone that their Jamaat was relatively small and that many members had initially migrated due to Jamaat-related reasons, eventually receiving opportunities in the West. He recommended highlighting how these blessings were a result of Allah’s grace, thereby encouraging people to participate fully in Jamaat events rather than drifting into worldly pursuits.
Sadr Sahiba Lajna further mentioned that some individuals claim they have already undergone sufficient moral training and now wish to focus on enjoying life. Addressing this, Huzooraa explained that true tarbiyat instils concern for the Hereafter. He cited the example of the Holy Prophetsa, who transformed uncivilised people into not only learned individuals but ultimately into God-fearing believers. [Lecture Sialkot (English), 2007, p. 6] “That is our ultimate target,” Huzooraa said. Contrary to this, if one’s tarbiyat leads one to abandon faith for worldly pleasure, then such tarbiyat is of no benefit. Huzooraa said that death is inevitable and further referenced the Holy Quran, where those who neglected righteousness in this world will plead to God for another chance, only to be told that they will now face the consequences of their actions. [Surah az-Zumar, Ch.39: V.56-62]
Huzooraa emphasised that being a Muslim or simply taking bai‘at does not guarantee entry into Paradise – it is also one’s deeds and actions that determine their standing before Allah. [Surah al-Asr, Ch.103: V.1-4] Those who claim they no longer need tarbiyat must be reminded that a true Ahmadi would never express such sentiments. “Life holds no meaning without endeavour,” Huzooraa said.
He further observed that those who declined to live by the Jamaat’s principles while still remaining in the Community risked falling into hypocrisy. Many of these individuals, he cautioned, criticised office-bearers for a lack of consistency in word and deed while displaying the same shortcoming in themselves.
Nevertheless, Huzooraa also recommended that the Lajna administration address such attitudes lovingly rather than with undue severity, aiming to guide rather than alienate them.
Collective tarbiyat and individual accountability
The Secretary for Tarbiyat described how monthly tarbiyat assessments of practices – such as prayers, Quran recitation and listening to Friday sermons – often led some members to respond that these were private matters between themselves and Allah and should not be frequently questioned.
In reply, Huzooraa emphasised that the Jamaat maintains a system [nizam] to determine whether spiritual standards are improving or declining. He explained that this approach is rooted in Quranic teachings, as Allah the Almighty also instructed the Holy Prophetsa to remind believers of their religious duties continuously. [Surah al-Ghashiyah, Ch.88: V.22] “Tell them that it is based upon this that we conduct these things. It is necessary for the unity of the Jamaat that we should ask this of you so that we can assess whether we are progressing or regressing. We then tailor programmes according to that. So to just say that this is a matter between us and God is incorrect,” Huzooraa said.
Huzooraa referred to the Holy Prophet’ssa example of strongly admonishing those who neglected congregational prayers, noting that this showed how significant mutual exhortation is in maintaining standards. Huzooraa said, “So, to just say that this is a matter between us and God is incorrect. If this were the case, then why would the Holy Prophetsa say, ‘Those people who do not come to offer prayers, or they do not come for Isha or Fajr prayers, I feel like appointing someone else to lead the prayer and go and set their homes on fire.’” [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 657] He pointed out that the Promised Messiahas also reiterated these fundamentals, urging everyone to uphold Islamic principles so that the Jamaat’s unity remains strong.
Huzooraa said, “It is for this very reason that we are commanded to offer prayers in congregation. You should tell your male family members to go and offer their prayers [in congregation]. You should tell your children to go and offer their prayers.” Huzooraa added that if parents resisted any form of moral guidance, they might later face difficulties should their children also insist on complete freedom, especially if this resulted in the adoption of harmful habits.
Huzooraa advised that while the Jamaat must continue offering reminders, these should be delivered gently and wisely. He cautioned that speaking bluntly risks provoking aggressive reactions and undermines the goal of nurturing responsible spiritual conduct.
Distributing tabligh leaflets and respecting social norms
Another Lajna member expressed concern regarding the distribution of tabligh leaflets or flyers in letterboxes, explaining that in Switzerland, many households explicitly post notices stating they do not wish to receive unsolicited mail. She asked whether Jamaat members should continue placing pamphlets in these letterboxes despite residents’ objections.
Huzooraa offered a clear directive:
“Why do you post it? If someone does not like it, then they are going to take it out, tear it apart and throw it away, so what is the benefit of that? […] Stand on the streets, put up a stall and say, ‘This is the teaching of Islam.’ We are distributing this. If you are interested in this, then take this pamphlet and read it. Whoever happily takes it, give it to them.”
Huzooraa emphasised that fulfilling a large numerical “target” of leaflets is not the true goal. Instead, the Jamaat should focus on meaningful connections and respectful interactions, thereby cultivating positive relationships:
“It should not be the case that we need to distribute a target of 200,000 leaflets; therefore, we simply place them in the letterboxes because it is easy to do. […] Work that does not produce a positive result has no use. Only give it to those who would like to happily take it. Knock on their doors and say, ‘This is our pamphlet. On your letterbox, it is written that you do not want any [unsolicited] mail. If you would like, you can take this; otherwise, peace be upon you, we will continue on our way. May Allah keep you happy.’ By excusing yourself from them with good wishes, they will become happy and say that these are very moral people.”
Such courtesy, Huzooraa explained, itself becomes a means of tabligh – demonstrating empathy and respect can soften hearts more than placing flyers where they are unwelcome.
Online participation in Lajna classes
A Lajna member enquired whether those unable to attend in person could join classes online.
Huzooraa responded that while this is possible, it must be ensured that men in the household are not present in the background as they move around. In fact, to maintain appropriate purdah, only audio participation should be permitted, with no video transmission.
Reaching out to children facing bullying and isolation
One Lajna member asked how they might help girls who become isolated or distant from the mosque and Jamaat activities due to bullying at school or a sense of social alienation. Some girls, she observed, face academic and societal pressures that deepen their sense of isolation.
In response, Huzooraa stressed the importance of welcoming these individuals warmly and reassuring them that they would receive genuine care and comfort within Lajna Imaillah. He emphasised the value of visiting them at home, speaking to them kindly and offering an environment free from judgement. If required, professional support, such as seeking help from a psychiatrist, could also be considered to address any deeper concerns. He noted that everything could be achieved through love, referencing Islamic teachings that even enemies might be won over by a compassionate approach [Surah Ha Mim as-Sajdah, Ch.41: V.35]. He said:
“We need to know how to remove the reservations within their hearts. Give them company. Make them feel that you are with them. Then they will cooperate with you. All can be won over with love. Allah the Exalted says that even if you speak to an enemy with love, then his heart will also become soft. So these are our own people. If you speak to them lovingly, their heart shall also soften.”
Sadr Sahiba Lajna interjected that even when some young members do come, they often fear the disapproval of “the aunties,” referring to older Lajna members who might inadvertently judge them.
Huzooraa responded firmly:
“Yes, the ‘aunties’ look at them in a peculiar way. You should tell those ‘aunties’ to close their eyes, evaluate their own condition and seek istighfar [forgiveness]. Tell the ‘aunties’ to reform themselves. Allah the Almighty will punish them for driving others away. Explain to the ‘aunties’ not to take up the role of God. […] The Holy Prophetsa was told by Allah to treat those who follow him with love, compassion and tenderness; if he were to be harsh, they would run away.” [Surah Al-e-‘Imran, Ch.3: V.160]
Guiding children who adopt harmful habits
Another member highlighted a challenge: despite parental guidance, some young people succumb to harmful influences, engaging in morally questionable activities in order to “fit in” with prevailing societal norms.
Huzooraa observed that, although parents instruct their children on lawful and unlawful matters, such guidance is often delivered in a manner that instils fear rather than love. He recommended showing kindness, explaining that wrongdoing displeases Allah the Almighty, contradicts Islamic teachings and has been forbidden by both the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas. Rather than encouraging hatred towards others who err, parents should remind children that each individual’s accountability rests with Allah.
From around the age of 15 and especially for boys who have more external exposure, families should openly discuss possible vices and advise them on avoiding these pitfalls.
Huzooraa stressed that fathers in particular bear responsibility for exemplifying faith at home. If a father neglects prayers or misuses his time, children will feel free to disregard the moral lessons they have been taught. He, therefore, urged families to maintain a pure home environment and ensure parental conduct aligns with the advice they give. Huzooraa said:
“Is your manner of living at home and your social life pure? If so, it will have a positive influence on your children. Otherwise, one should not just lecture [for the sake of it]. Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran that you should not advise for that which you do not do yourself.” [Surah al-Mumin, Ch.40: V.36]
Worldly progress and spiritual duty
A Lajna member then asked about Western nations that appear irreligious yet lead the world in science, technology and economics. She wondered whether such material progress is a divine reward or a trial from Allah and how Ahmadi Muslims should explain or contextualise this to the next generation.
Huzooraa explained that, according to both Quranic prophecies and the sayings of the Holy Prophetsa, certain nations were to thrive materially despite a diminished focus on faith. He compared their strong inclination toward worldly matters to a metaphor of the “left eye” seeing material pursuits clearly but – having limited sight when it comes to spirituality – an analogy associated with the concept of Dajjal.
He elaborated that Allah the Almighty may grant such nations success in this world but, if they indulge in wrongdoing, they remain liable to punishment, either here or in the next life. By contrast, true believers who work diligently, whether as doctors, engineers, or in any other field, benefit from both worldly and spiritual favour. They may gain a greater reward even from modest efforts because of their connection with Allah and will experience a more profound peace in the hereafter.
Huzooraa also pointed out that Muslims themselves are accountable for not fully practising the teachings of Islam. For instance, many neglect the five daily prayers and fail to uphold the rights of Allah. He cautioned that complaining about the prosperity of others while disregarding one’s own spiritual obligations is inconsistent. If Muslims were to become true believers, they would have every right to petition Allah for similar blessings. Meanwhile, natural disasters and global unrest can serve as reminders of divine punishment, highlighting that worldly comfort does not exempt anyone from ultimate accountability.
Women participating in and speaking at combined events
A Lajna member sought clarification on how Ahmadi Muslim women could follow the example of early Muslim women by actively contributing to the cause of Islam by having the opportunity to participate in and speak at combined events.
In response, Huzooraa explained that at certain combined tabligh functions, Lajna members might bring their tabligh guests, but when it came to dining – where people tended to relax and remove face coverings – separate arrangements were more suitable. He observed that even non-Muslim female guests often preferred to dine alongside women, recognising the comfort and privacy it provided.
With regard to historical instances, Huzooraa said, “As for the examples of the past, such as Hazrat Umm Ammarahra, or other women who participated in battles, they did so in a way that people could not recognise them. There is an incident in one of the battles in which a person was on horseback – whose brother was captured – and was fighting fiercely, wielding the sword right and left. The commander of the Muslim army did not know who this person was who was fighting with such fearlessness and valour. He asked, ‘Who are you?’ to which that person remained silent. After much insistence, the person spoke up saying, ‘I am a woman.’ This means that she was fully covered in her hijab and her attire. It was not possible to distinguish whether that person was a man or a woman. She was fighting in this manner. Even those who would participate would observe the full-dress code and purdah code. You can also partake [in events] in a similar way.”
Addressing modern scenarios where external organisations invited Ahmadi women to speak – particularly on issues like women’s rights – he indicated that permission could be granted, provided the speaker was a mature woman in modest dress. Such talks, he noted, had already proven impactful, with instances of former critics revising their views upon hearing informed and confident presentations from Ahmadi women who confidently wear the hijab. He encouraged those interested in similar opportunities to liaise with the Sadr Lajna and seek central permission.
Huzooraa said, “Wherever an opportunity arises, you can inform your Sadr and if permission needs to be sought from here, then you can do so and then deliver a talk. I have appointed a few women in Germany and given permission for them to go. They are mature and I know they have the knowledge and can speak well on official platforms. There are some in the UK; there are some in the USA. There are in other countries as well. If there are some from among you, then you can also do this. Who has stopped you? However, you must seek permission and you would have to promise to remain within the dress code and also wear modest clothing.”
Delivering speeches at combined Jamaat gatherings
At this juncture, Sadr Sahiba Lajna asked Huzooraa about the possibility of women delivering speeches in Jamaat events, such as jalsas for Seerat-un-Nabisa, where men and women sit in the same venue while being separated by a screen.
Huzooraa clarified:
“The men are conducting their own jalsa; this is why women have been allowed to conduct their own jalsa. You will be speaking about the rights of women, so if the Seerat-un-Nabi Jalsa is happening, then you should tell them the rights of women in light of the life of the Holy Prophetsa. […] You should hold your own programmes and your own functions. You should do your own tarbiyat and whatever you hear and learn, go and inform your men as well.”
Huzooraa reiterated that the Khalifa of the Time addresses both men’s and women’s sessions during large events like Jalsa Salana and those addresses are equally instructive. Hence, there is no shortage of guidance available to men.
Signing up for the Wasiyyat Scheme without spousal or parental approval
A Lajna member sought clarification on whether a woman could sign up for Wasiyyat without her parents’ or spouse’s approval.
Huzooraa responded:
“If she is a student, then she can do Wasiyyat on the basis of the pocket money she receives from her parents if she wishes to do so. But if she is a wife and the husband is not giving her anything and she also does not have an income of her own, then the husband’s willingness should be kept in mind. If she is earning herself, then she can say to the husband, ‘These are my own earnings; I am not taking anything from you. I am signing up for Wasiyyat on the basis of my own income.’
“However, to avoid arguments in the house, it is better to take your husband into confidence. There is no reason to unnecessarily engage in a rift. […] It is better to keep the household environment pure and peaceful. So, after taking him into confidence, you can do it.”
Teaching the Holy Quran and the question of fees
A Lajna member raised the issue of parents hiring individuals, including missionaries from abroad, to teach their children the Holy Quran and enquired whether these individuals should be allowed to charge fees.
Huzooraa firmly stated that charging a fee for teaching the Holy Quran is not permissible and he has prohibited it multiple times. He instructed that any instances of this should be reported. However, if someone willingly offers a gift out of gratitude, they may do so, but a predetermined fee should not be set – except for those officially appointed by the Jamaat under specific provisions.
Boosting attendance at Lajna programmes
The conversation returned to the topic of programme attendance. One of the secretaries noted that, despite repeated efforts, it remained difficult to attract younger women to events. She asked if Huzooraa might offer an alternative approach.
Huzooraa reiterated that forging personal bonds often bears more fruit than public calls:
“Develop a personal bond with them. When the general meeting happens, create such activities that they will be interested in. If they are educated girls, then hold a seminar on some topic. You should form a book club, just as the Lajna have formed one here and you should have discussions.
“Make programmes regarding contemporary issues for educated women. For others, conduct some small programmes like Meena Bazaar, etc., which they would attend. […] Slowly bring them closer, then they will become used to it.”
Huzooraa reminded them never to be discouraged by the low initial turnout:
“Allah Almighty never said anywhere that if you are unsuccessful somewhere, you should stop trying; our job is to keep on striving, for tarbiyat and tabligh as well.”
Guidance regarding matrimonial matters
As the meeting neared its conclusion, Sadr Sahiba Lajna sought Huzoor’saa advice regarding challenges faced by the Rishta Nata Department. She sought counsel on how to handle marriage proposals for those of eligible age, noting that while parents expressed concern about their children’s advancing age, they were often reluctant to provide the necessary details or forms. She remarked that the Lajna administration had even offered an option to upload essential information privately onto the Markazi website.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa advised explaining to parents that basic information, such as educational qualifications and personal expectations for a potential spouse, should at least be made available. Once a suitable match was identified, the boy and girl could review each other’s information and proceed if both felt inclined.
Huzooraa also observed that worldly priorities often overshadowed spiritual considerations, leading to distress in such matters. He urged the Lajna administration to remain patient and accept that some families would respond negatively to guidance.
Elaborating on the reality that no individual is entirely faultless, Huzooraa emphasised the importance of self-awareness. He noted that when flaws are identified in a prospective partner, the same must be acknowledged within oneself. True tarbiyat, he said, lies in developing the habit of recognising personal shortcomings instead of judging others as wholly unsuitable. After all, only one person has been referred to as Insan-e-Kamil [the perfect man], i.e., the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Otherwise, all people possess weaknesses that one must learn to overlook, so long as key fundamentals for a stable marriage are present.
With this, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa took leave and the mulaqat came to an end.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)
