11
October1947:
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote a powerful and detailed article,
sharing details of the fierce and continuous attacks on Qadian. During the
events of the partition, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra would provide timely
and essential guidance on all matters. His articles would be taken very
seriously by the authorities. For example, on 7 October, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
wrote an article describing the situation in Qadian and it was published in Al
Fazl. Later, when this article was published in the form of a leaflet and
distributed, the government ordered it to be confiscated and banned.
On 10
October, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra advised Ahmadi men to train
themselves in basic military skills, so they could serve their country in times
of distress.
On 12 October, Huzoorra
exhorted Jamaat members to remain punctual in their five daily prayers in
congregation and the remembrance of Allah.
11
October 1948: Attempts to locate ground water in
Rabwah failed. The Jamaat continued to bore holes in various locations of
Rabwah, but to no avail. After continuous efforts, water was found in one
location but it was foul and dirty.
12
October 1935: Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Razaq, a barrister
and local amir of Lyallpur (now Faisalabad), and Hazrat Shiekh Ghulam Ahmad
Waiz passed away.
12
October 1956: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
delivered a profound sermon shedding light on the topic of apostasy.
13 October
1931: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
attended a meeting of the Kashmir Committee in Lahore. He also attended their
meeting held on 24 October and presented his views.
13
October 1934: Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Nigeria held its
first ever Jalsa Salana in Lagos, which continued for two days.
13
October 1937: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra left
for a tour of Sindh and Bombay, which lasted until 3 November.
13
October 1937: The Jamaat’s mission in Sierra Leone was
re-established by the arrival of Hazrat Maulvi Nazir Ahmad Ali.
13
October 1946: An Ahmadi doctor, Yousuf Salman Sahib
from the Cape of Good Hope (also known as Cape Colony, South Africa) visited
Qadian in March 1946. After enjoying the blessed company of Hazrat
Musleh-e-Maudra, Yousuf Sahib expressed his strong wish to serve
humanity and do tabligh. On this date, he departed for South Africa to fulfil
this aim.
13
October 1946: With the aim to spread the message of
Islam across Europe following WWII, three Ahmadi Muslim missionaries arrived in
Switzerland; Chaudry Abdul Latif Sahib, Sheikh Nasir Ahmad Sahib and Maulvi
Ghulam Ahmad Bashir Sahib.
14
October 1947: Hazrat Mirza Aziz Ahmadra was
called back to Lahore from Qadian upon the instructions of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.
Jalaluddin Shams Sahib took his place and began his responsibility as
amir-e-muqami, Qadian.
14
October 1947: After fatal attacks on the inhabitants
of Qadian, the attackers started occupying Jamaat’s property. Buildings of
Jamia Ahmadiyya and Talim-ul-Islam College were taken. On this date, the
intruders took control of the building where the printing press machinery was
installed and also the library building of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira.
14
October 1955: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra gave
two important instructions for the missions operating outside of Pakistan.
Firstly, they should try to inculcate the habit of giving Chanda in new
converts. Secondly, to encourage students from outside countries to travel to
the Markaz in Pakistan and gain education there.
15
October 1917: Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Khalil Ahmad Sahib
from Monghir was sent from the Markaz to organise the local chapters of the
Jamaat in Punjab.
15
October 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
visited the School of Oriental Studies, University of London (SOAS).
15
October 1936: Hazrat Lieutenant Sardar Muhammad Ayub
Khan OBE passed away. He joined the Jamaat in 1902.
15
October 1946: Jalaluddin Shams Sahib returned to
Qadian after serving a decade in England as a missionary. He returned with the
company of Syed Munir Al Husni Sahib, Amir of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Damascus,
Syria.
16
October 1909: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira
delivered an Eid-ul-Fitr Sermon in which he spoke about the institution of
Khilafat.
16
October 1934: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
started his two day trip towards Ferozpur, a famous city on the bank of River
Satluj in Punjab.
16 October 1935: Hazrat Munshi Fiyaz Alira
passed away. He was among the early 313 Companionsra of the Promised
Messiahas.
16
October 1951: Nawabzada Liaqat Ali Khan, widely known as Qaid-e-Millat (Leader of the Nation) was one of the leading founding fathers of Pakistan, a statesman, lawyer
and political theorist who
served as the first prime minister of Pakistan.
On this date, he was shot twice in the chest while he was addressing a
gathering of 100,000 at Company Bagh, Rawalpindi. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
expressed his deep grief and pain on this barbaric assassination. He sent his
condolences to the government and grieved family members. The next day,
residents of Rabwah convened a special remembrance to show respect to this
great leader.
17
October 1925: A monthly magazine in Bengali from
Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) commenced its publication to spread the message of
the Jamaat. Maulvi Ghulam Samdani Sahib was its first editor.
17
October 1948: Maulana Abul Ata Jalandhari Sahib placed the
foundation stone of a mosque in Ahmad Nagar, a village next to the new Markaz
in Rabwah. This mosque was likely to be the first purpose built mosque by those
Jamaat members who had migrated to Pakistan from India.
“I shall
cause thy message to reach the corners of the Earth”, was a grand prophecy
given to the Promised Messiahas that is being fulfilled every
day. In the same spirit, by the grace of
Allah, Calgary Jamaat has been holding world religions conferences across
Alberta (AB), British Columbia (BC) and Northwest Territories (NT) for over a
decade. Every year, 20 to 25 members travel over 3,600 km to hold several
events in remote towns of these areas.
The
theme of this year’s events was, “Universal compassion: The core human
value”. During the journey, the help and
support of Allah was experienced more than ever.
This year an entourage of 26 members
embarked on a 5-day journey on Friday 13 September. They held six events at
Dawson Creek BC, Grande Prairie AB, Peace River AB, Hay River NT, K’at’lodeeche
First Nation Reserve NT and Yellowknife NT – spanning two provinces and one
territory.
After
travelling 300 km, the first stop of the trip was Baitul Hadi Mosque, Edmonton,
AB. The entourage stayed there for the
night. The following morning, they were divided into three teams, each team was
to visit one city and hold a conference.
Dawson Creek, British Columbia
The
first team had to drive 590 km to get to Dawson Creek, BC. The 3rd
world religions conference was held at Kiwanis, the Performing Arts Centre,
from 1pm to 2:30pm. The conference was attended by 21 people including 14
non-Ahmadi guests. The event was moderated by a well-known local media
personality. Representatives from
Buddhism, Aboriginal Spirituality, and Islam expressed their views on the
topic. The local newspaper, Dawson Creek
Mirror also published articles before and after the event.
Grande Prairie, Alberta
The
second team drove 460 km to get to Grande Prairie and held their 6th
annual world religions conference at local public library. The event was held
from 1pm to 2:30pm and was attended by 20 guests including 13 non-Ahmadi
guests. Christian and Islamic perspectives were presented at the conference.
Peace River, Alberta
The third
team set its sight on Peace River, at a distance of 500 km. Once there, they hosted the 6th
world religions conference from 2pm to 3:30pm. The event was attended by 19
guests including 5 non-Ahmadis.
Later that afternoon, the three teams
converged and continued their journey. After travelling 1300km in one day, they
reached Hay River, NT. This was their
stop for the night. The stay at Hay
River was hosted by the K’at’lodeeche First Nation on their land.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
The
following morning, Sunday 15 September the entourage travelled another 500km to
Yellowknife, NT. The 12th world religions conference was held
at Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre from 2pm to 4pm.
The conference was moderated by Deputy
Mayor Shauna Morgan, and six speakers representing Jainism, Buddhism,
Christianity, Judaism, Aboriginal Spirituality, and Islam presented their
respective views on the topic. The conference was attended by 40 guests. Several guests showed keen interest in the
program and appreciated this effort.
The mainstream media, CBC Northaired
a 15 minute live interview of Asif Arif Sahib.
A local French radio station, Radio Taiga also interviewed him.
After concluding the Yellowknife WRC, the
group travelled 500km back to the K’at’lodeeche First Nation Reserve, Hay River
for the night. The following morning, a
friendship BBQ was held, at the K’at’lodeeche First Nation Reserve. This was
attended by aboriginal Dene people and the deputy Chief of the nation.
Hay River, Northwest Territories
On the
same evening, the 4th world religions conference was held from 6pm
to 7:30pm at downtown Hay River. The Mayor of Hay River, Kandis Jameson
moderated the even and while representatives from Christianity, Aboriginal
Spirituality, and Islam presented their perspectives.
The local newspaper, Hay River Hub
published an article on the event which included interviews and pictures.
By the grace of Allah, several new
contacts were made during all these events and existing friendships
strengthened. An important aspect of
this year’s tabligh tour was the keen interest and participation of young
Ahmadi boys in a significant number. Ten high school students became part of
the entourage and participated in tabligh activities.
May
Allah bless these humble efforts and produce long lasting results and reward
all the volunteers abundantly. Amin.
Paris, France, Tuesday, 8 October: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was graced with an address by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
At approximately 6:15 local time a special session by UNESCO commenced in Miollis, Paris with the arrival of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.
UNESCO, with 193 member-countries,
is a body of the United
Nations that “seeks
to build peace through international cooperation in Education, the Sciences and
Culture.” UNESCO’s constitution, signed on 16 November 1945, envisions to
establish peace “upon dialogue and mutual understanding”, and “upon the
intellectual and moral solidarity of humanity.” UNESCO globally carries out a
large number of charitable, humanitarian and intellectual projects.
With Huzoor’saa arrival, the session started with a series of speeches from UNESCO officials and other dignitaries, followed by an introduction to Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya by Asif Arif Sahib.
The speakers included; the communications supervisor of Mali’s delegation at UNESCO, Mr Jean Christophe Auge the Religious Adviser of the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Mr Clement Rouchouse from the Central Religion Advisory Board at the Home Office, Mr Gregoire Dublineau, Mayor of Eaubonne, Mr Willy Breton, President of the NATO Memorial and Mr Guillaume Diallo, representative of the Malian Christians living abroad.
The speakers expressed their
admiration of the peaceful aspirations and works of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.
Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. Huzooraa greeted the guests and thanked UNESCO for the event.
Huzooraa also thanked all the guests who came to listen to “a person who is neither a politician, nor a political leader, nor a scientist, but the head of a religious community…”
Huzooraa said that the founding objectives of UNESCO being peace, respect, human rights, education, freedom of expression and alleviating poverty are all “excellent and praiseworthy”. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa expressed that the guests may be surprised to hear that these are also the objectives of Islam. “Such service is based on the very first chapter of the Holy Quran which states that Allah the All Mighty is the Lord of all the worlds”. Huzooraa explained that this verse is a reminder for Muslims that Allah is the Lord of all humankind, “irrespective of cast, creed and colour.”
Huzooraa said that Islam teaches that “the values of mutual respect and tolerance must be firmly embedded within society”.
Allah is the Provider and Sustainer to all people, even though they may reject him. “His grace and mercy remain even with those who continually speak ill of Him”, Huzooraa explained.
The philosophy of punishment
or sanction established by God, in Islam, is geared more towards the hereafter.
In this life, Allah continues to manifest his grace and mercy and has
instructed mankind also to show compassion and sympathy to one another.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa stated that “it is a religious obligation on Muslims to fulfil the requirements of other people, irrespective of religion, culture or ethnicity and to always be kind” to “the emotions and needs of others”.
Huzooraa explained how the Holy Prophetsa was the best of all creation but yet, had to endure great hardships. After migration to Medina, the Holy Prophetsa was elected as Head of the State and “under his leadership, the covenant proved to be a magnificent charter of human rights and governance, ensuring peace between the different communities”.
The Prophetsa of Islam established an impartial judiciary and made it clear that there would be the same law for the rich and powerful and the poor and weak. All people would be treated equally, according to the law of the land. The Holy Prophetsa made it clear that the same law applied to his own family.
Further, “the Prophet of
Islam established an excellent education system through which the intellectual
standards of that society were raised”. Educated people were instructed to
teach the illiterate. “This was all done so that the weak and powerless could
stand on their own two feet and advance”.
Huzooraa mentioned that the Holy Prophetsa established a code of business and financial ethics.
“In an age when slavery was rampant and slave owners treated their slaves mercilessly, the Prophet of Islam sought to bring about a revolution in society.” Slave owners were urged by the Holy Prophetsa to treat their slaves with compassion and respect and to ultimately free them.
The roads of the city were expanded and improved. A city-cleaning programme was also implemented by the Holy Prophetsa and the population was taught about the importance of hygiene and health.
Huzooraa said “For the very first time amongst the Arabs, an orderly and civilised society was established”, resulting in citizens becoming beneficial and active members of society.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then spoke about how the Holy Prophetsa of Islam has been mischaracterised in today’s society. The reality is that the Prophetsa of Islam spent every moment of his life, “championing the rights of all people.” He established “a timeless charter of human rights.”
The Prophetsa of Islam taught to respect the beliefs and feelings of others.
Huzooraa said that it was regrettable that, in the modern world, respect has been sacrificed in the name of so-called freedom and entertainment.
“The founders of religion
are no longer spared mockery and contempt”
The Holy Quran, however, says that Muslims should not even speak ill of the idols of others, as they, in return, may speak ill of Allah the Almighty, hence disrupting the peace of society.
The Holy Prophetsa of Islam established various schemes to raise the standard of living of the weak and underprivileged. He said that “a poor person who was moral and considerate had far greater value than a rich person who cared not for the feelings of others”.
Even in small matters, the Holy Prophetsa paid great attention to ensure protection of the feelings of underprivileged citizens of the society. For instance, the Holy Prophetsa would tell Muslims to invite the poor and weak to dinner.
The Prophet of Islamsa continually told his followers to free slaves, or, if it was not possible, to at least feed and clothe them the same way that they fed and clothed themselves.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then spoke of the rights of women in Islam. Huzooraa said that it is often alleged that Islam denies women’s rights, but “nothing could be further from the truth”.
In a time when women were not respected, the Holy Prophetsa instructed his followers to ensure girls were educated and respected. He said that a person who educated and guided three daughters in the best way, would be sure to enter paradise.
The way to enter heaven, according to the Prophetsa of Islam was to educate and instill moral values within female members of the society. In light of this, Ahmadi Muslim girls are educating themselves in order to serve Humanity.
“We ensure that girls are given equal access to education as boys. Hence, the literacy rate of Ahmadi Muslim girls in the developing world is at least 99 percent”, Huzooraa pointed out.
Islam was the first to give
women the right of inheritance, divorce and many other human rights.
The Holy Prophetsa placed great emphasis on the rights of neighbours. The Holy Prophetsa paid great stress on education. Huzooraa explained an example of this, saying that after his first battle, the Holy Prophetsa agreed to release prisoners if they educated others.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that it is often alleged that Islam is a religion of violence. This is far from the truth as the Holy Quran gives freedom of belief and conscience.
“In reality if the early Muslims engaged in warfare, it was always defensive and fought for the sake of establishing long-term peace and to protect the right of all people to live with freedom”, Huzooraa explained.
Any Muslim who adopts
violence is far from Islamic teachings. Such acts of violence only aim at
gaining power or wealth and for attaining geopolitical and vested benefits.
The Holy Prophetsa and his Rightly Guided Caliphs never sought war and “at all times sought peace and reconciliation”.
Another allegation against Islam is of being a backward and archaic religion or one that does not promote intellectual advancement. Huzooraa said that such an assumption is based on merely on fiction rather than facts.
“It is a baseless allegation. The Holy Quran itself has signified the importance of education by teaching the prayer, ‘O my Lord increase me in knowledge’”. Huzooraa said that where this prayer helps Muslims it also inspires them to advance in knowledge. The truth is that the Holy Quran and the Prophet of Islam inspired generations of Muslim scientists, inventors and philosophers who transformed the world.
Huzooraa drew the audience’s attention to Ibn Haytham, who was also recognised by UNESCO as the pioneer of modern optics. Huzooraa said that the word camera originates from Arabic. In the 12th Century a Muslim cartographer developed “the most extensive and accurate world map of the medieval times that was used by centuries of travellers.”
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa also spoke of the great contributions of Muslim physicians towards medical and biological sciences. For instance, Jabir Ibn Hayan bought a revolution in the field of Chemistry and invented many of the basic processes that are still in use today.
Huzooraa also pointed towards Algebra as a discipline that a Muslim mathematician invented.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then referred to a New York Times article that stated, “Muslims created a society that was, in the middle ages, the scientific centre of the world”.
“Hence, from the outset,
Islam emphasised the immense value of learning and pushing the boundaries of
human knowledge”,
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has been promoting such trends learning and education since its inception. The very first Muslim scientist to receive a Nobel Prize was Professor Dr Abdus Salam, an Ahmadi, who said that there were “around 750 verses in the Holy Quran directly related to science and which enhanced our understanding of nature and the universe”.
Huzooraa explained that the third Caliph of the Jamaat desired a “new dawn of great Muslim scientists and academics”. As a result, he started a tradition within the Jamaat of awarding gold medals to those who achieve academic excellence.
Huzooraa said that education is the key to breaking poverty and this is why the Holy Prophetsa urged Muslims to fund the poor in education.
Huzooraa explained that Muslims are required to achieve the love of God not only through worship, but by serving humanity also.
“In all parts of the world the
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community acts upon these noble teachings to the best of our
abilities”
“We believe that Islam is a religion of love and compassion”, Huzooraa said. That is why the Jamaat serves humanity irrespective of cast or creed.
The Jamaat is providing clean running water in African villages, this enables children to focus on their education rather than travelling miles to collect water from ponds. Huzooraa spoke in further detail of the humanitarian works of the Jamaat that were done out of human sympathy.
At the end, Huzooraa prayed that mankind forsakes greed and forgoes the pursuit of narrow self-interest and focuses on alleviating the pain of the less fortunate.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa thanked those who came to the event and concluded the session with silent prayers.
Saint
Prix, France, Monday, 07 October: Earlier today, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his
Helper, arrived in Saint Prix, France.
Huzooraa led Jamaat members in Zuhr and Asr prayers at Mubarak Mosque, Saint Prix.
In the evening, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa graced two separate sittings with Waqifaat-e-Nau and Waqifeen-e-Nau from France.
The first was with Waqifaat-e-Nau. The class started with recitation of the Holy Quran and its translation. A Hadith and an excerpt from the writings of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was then read out. This was followed by a poem, written by the Promised Messiahas.
Next, two presentations were given by the Lajna Waqifaat-e-Nau. The first was by Raghiba Zahoor Sahiba and Naila Akram Sahiba on Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra visit to France in 1924.
The
second presentation was about the Catacombs of Paris, this was presented by
Khawla Ahad Sahiba and Bushra Lateef Sahiba.
The Waqifaat-e-Nau also had an opportunity to ask Huzooraa questions during the class. One member asked if Huzooraa could narrate an interesting dream of his. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa narrated a dream he had when he was a student. In the dream, Huzooraa saw a prophecy of the Promised Messiahas that pointed towards Divine support.
Another Waqf-e-Nau asked Huzooraa about his opinion on getting married within other nations and cultures. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that such marriages within the Jamaat are positive as everyone is Ahmadi. Huzooraa also mentioned that Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said that marriages in other nations can aid in the spread of Islam.
The
sitting concluded with choral poems by the Waqifaat-e-Nau in Urdu and French.
Waqifeen-e-Nau also had a sitting with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. The session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by its translation. A Hadith and an excerpt from the writings of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was then read out. This was followed by a poem, written by the Promised Messiahas.
The boys Waqf-e-Nau also gave two presentations. The first was by Talha Rashid Sahib, a doctor who presented his research on a rare disease.
The
second presentation was delivered by Usama Rabbani Sahib regarding the
mountains found in France.
During the class, a Waqf-e-Nau asked Huzooraa whether the hadith of heaven being under the feet of mothers, only applied to Muslims. In reply, Huzooraa explained that a mother who brings their children up in a proper manner comes within the remit of this Hadith and their children will grow to become pious. This Hadith also applies to any child who carries out their responsibility for their mothers and shows them due respect. A child should adopt good morals from their parents and shun bad ones. The Holy Quran has said that if one’s parents teach shirk then the children should not listen to them in this instance.
Tomorrow, 8 October, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa will deliver an address at UNESCO. The proceedings of this session will be shown live on MTA at 16.30 GMT.
Trie-Chateau, France, Sunday, 06 October: The 27th Jalsa Salana France concludes with Bai‘at and the final address of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper.
The Bai‘at ceremony at the 27th Jalsa Salana France took place at approximately 3:15 local time. Huzooraa then led the congregation in Zuhr and Asr prayers.
The concluding session was initiated with the recitation of the Holy Quran, verses 13-20 of Surah Luqman (chapter 31), followed by their Urdu translation by Mansoor Ahmad Sahib. The verses captured Hazrat Luqman’sas guidance to his son; shunning shirk, being thankful, praying and adopting good morals.
An Arabic poem written by the Promised Messiah, peace be upon
him, was then read out by an Arab Ahmadi, Hamza Sahib. The couplets were
translated by Usama Ahmad Sahib. The poem was in praise of Allah the Almighty.
An Urdu poem written by the Promised Messiahas was then read out by Matlub Ahmad Sahib.
Next, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa presented awards of academic excellence to more than 35 members.
Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa recited verse 22 of Surah al-Mujadalah from the Holy Quran followed by its translation. The translation of the verse is “Allah has decreed: ‘Most surely I will prevail, I and My Messengers.’ Verily, Allah is Powerful, Mighty.”
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained that prophets have to endure great hardships when they are raised by Allah. It seems as the prophets will be defeated by enemies, but Allah grants them ultimate success. Huzooraa said that the verse he recited points towards this victory.
The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him,
went through this as well. His enemies thought they would destroy the weak Muslims
but the complete opposite happened.
Then, Allah sent the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, and gave him great promises of success and victory. Allah continuously told the Promised Messiahas that he would come out successful despite enemies from all sides.
On numerous occasions, the Promised Messiahas received the revelation, “Allah has decreed: ‘Most surely I will prevail, I and My Messengers.’”
The Promised Messiahas said that God, from the outset, has written and has made it His practice that He and His prophet shall be victorious. In a similar vein, the Promised Messiahas came as the second coming of the Holy Prophetsa.
In Noah’s Ark the Promised Messiahas asks if people think that enemies will stop the prophet of Allah i.e himself. The answer is that it is not possible and “Allah has decreed: ‘Most surely I will prevail, I and my Messengers.’”
At an occasion, the Promised Messiahas said that the one who is from Allah can never go to waste. And that Allah grants victory to His prophets.
The meaning of “victory” is to establish the message and truthfulness of Allah in the earth. Prophets come to sow the seed; this is the “victory” that is followed by a second manifestation that cultivates the seed sowed by the prophet.
This second manifestation of Khilafat can be observed through the success of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya. Huzooraa said that the message that was given from a small hamlet is now echoing throughout the world.
The history of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya bears witness to the promise of Allah that His Prophet will prosper.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa expressed that he would relate incidents on how Allah has and is fulfilling this promise.
A gentlemen from Cameroon phoned the Jamaat and said that his son received a pamphlet that was entitled, “The Messiah has come”. The man said he was lazy in offering namaz prior. Once, in a dream and prior to seeing the Jamaat pamphlet, he saw a white bearded man who told him to get up and offer namaz and to be consistent in it. Later, he came across MTA Africa and saw the exact same white bearded man delivering a lecture. The man did not know that there was a Jamaat in Cameroon as well. Through the pamphlet he came in contact with the Jamaat and was told about Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The man testified to the truthfulness of the Jamaat and did Bai‘at. Huzooraa said that the man by the grace of Allah is now consistent in prayers and is increasing his knowledge.
A lady from Tunisia states that she had illnesses from a young age. She was unaware about religion and only knew that she was a Muslim. At that time, in a dream, she saw a man leading her in prayers and she declared that this was the correct manner of worship. The lady would listen to Sheikh Hasaan’s lectures on the signs of the day of judgement. She would ask herself whether such signs would manifest at the coming of the Messiah and whether he would come. She then saw in a dream that she was in a hospital, time was passing very quickly and she wanted to leave the hospital. She then heard a voice which said “do not be afraid, I will take you home”, the person who said this was a man who had a thick beard and wore a turban. Upon asking who he was, the man said that he was “Muhammad”. She woke up and felt as if it was real. When she told her sister, her sister expressed to her that Satan cannot embody the Holy Prophetsa. Later, she came across MTA Al Arabiya and saw the picture of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa in which Huzooraa quoted the Promised Messiahas. When a picture of the Promised Messiahas was shown on screen, she was astonished as it was him who she saw in her dream as “Muhammad”. The lady then accepted Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.
There is a city in Tanzania in which our missionary was
persecuted. Now there are regular radio programmes of the Jamaat in this city.
As a result of these programmes, the son of the Imam of the city has accepted
Ahmadiyyat along with others. Huzooraa said that now, none can raise a voice
against Ahmadis in this city and people say that no scholar there can complete
with Ahmadi Muslims in knowledge.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa mentioned an incident from Nigeria. Mubarak Sahib, an Ahmadi preacher, began to show Huzoor’saa live Friday Sermon. After Huzoor’saa Friday Sermon he would deliver a short sermon of his own and offered Jumuah prayers. A non-Ahmadi gentlemen commented on this and said that showing the Friday Sermon of Huzooraa was an innovation. The non-Ahmadi gentlemen was told that this was not an innovation and that he also should listen to the sermon. After listening to them, the gentlemen expressed that he was shaken by the Friday sermons of Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and later accepted Ahmadiyyat.
Akhtar Sahib from India says that he saw a man in 2007 in his dream. The man’s face was full of light and spirituality and left a deep impression on him. In 2009 when he was in Pakistan he heard about the agitations against Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya. He contacted the Jamaat and later saw Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in a dream where Huzooraa was taking Bai‘at of people. In the dream, when Akhtar Sahib put his hand forward for Bai‘at, his hand could not reach. People from behind him exclaimed that he could not reach this. Akhtar Sahib continued to phone the Jamaat and learn more about the Jamaat. After another dream and even visiting Qadian Akhtar Sahib could not gather the strength to perform Bai‘at. After some time Akhtar Sahib attended a book fair in Shimla, India and after prayers he accepted Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.
Every week the Jamaat does a very popular radio programme in
a city of Ivory Coast that presents true Islamic teachings. In the city, the
inmates of a prison would listen to the Jamaat’s radio programme and greatly
enjoy it. A big audience of the inmates would continually begin to listen to
the radio programme with great interest. The Imam of the prison asked to
contact the Imam who was doing this radio programme. The Imam of the prison
then told the local Jamaat Mualim that many of the inmates had almost turned
atheist and stopped practice of religion. But due to the Jamaat radio
pragrammes they have started to believe in God again and are turning back to
Islam.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa articulated another incident about patience. A gentlemen came to the Jamaat mission house in Mali and performed Bai‘at. His household greatly opposed him and his father even beat him and threw him of the house. Despite this, the Khadim would continue to grow in sincerity towards the Jamaat. One night, the Khadim came to the mission house and said that his father had thrown him out. The Jamaat mubaligh prayed to Allah for his father to show mercy. The next day his regretful father came to collect his son and told him that he was allowed back and could continue to believe in Islam Ahmadiyyat. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that the Khadim contributes to Chanda above his capacity and is full of sincerity and faith.
Huzooraa mentioned an incident from India that a missionary, Zulfiqar Ali Sahib narrated. This year a ship from Bangladesh was about to sink but the Indian army saved the ship. When the local Jamaat found out, they collected some donations and gave it to those on board. They also did tabligh to them and some of them even accepted Ahmadiyyat.
A lady from Benin prayed that if she was given a job, she
would accept the Jamaat. Prior, she had applied to three jobs but was rejected
on all occasions. The Mualim sahib explained to her that such conditions should
not be placed, religion and worldly affairs should not be mixed. He told her to
first do Bai‘at and then pray. The lady accepted and did Bai‘at and became an active
Jamaat member. After Bai‘at, the very place that rejected her, contacted her
and said they would offer her the job despite her lack of experience.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa voiced that many write and present lots of worldly conditions after which they will accept Ahmadiyyat. Huzooraa said that this was not the right manner.
Amir Sahib Congo Kinshasa states that a Jamaat Mualim went to
a village for tabligh. A man, Abdul, said to the Mualim that Ahmadis do shirk, have a separate prophet and even a
different book from the Quran. The Mualim sahib explained to them the reality
and performed namaz as well. When the man realised that Ahmadis are no
different, he accepted that he was wrong and all that the so-called clerics had
told them about Ahmadis was false. As a result, more than 50 members of the
village accepted Ahmadiyyat.
A village in Mali accepted Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyyat. The villagers
had no religion prior but are now Ahmadis. The village chief told the Jamaat
that they were waiting for the appearance of the Imam Mahdi for a very long
time. The chief expressed that he was very happy that now the message of the
Jamaat reached him and unfortunately his father had died, who also was awaiting
the arrival of the Imam Mahdi.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa narrated an incident from Ivory Coast. An area was purchased by the Jamaat for a mosque and mission house. Illegally, some people tried to take the property from the Jamaat and took the matter to the governor. The governor gave the decision in favour of the Jamaat and said non can interfere with the building of the Jamaat Mosque. On the foundation of the mosque, the governor even attended. A lady, who supposedly would perform magic, and was part of the group that wanted to illegally take the Jamaat’s property said that Ahmadis will themselves leave this property. However, the lady fell ill to such an extent that others would not go near her has she had contracted a contagious disease. Despite her enmity, the local Mualim went to visit the lady and ask of her health. The lady later died. The locals, observing this, saw it as a great sign for the truthfulness of the Jamaat.
There is an area in Ghana where there is a large population
of Ahl-e-Sunnah Muslims. The non-Ahmadi community in this area called a scholar
from Egypt and told him to go to the areas that had accepted Ahmadiyyat and
convert Ahmadis back. They also wanted to put water wells in those areas as the
Jamaat build these wells as well. The Egyptian scholar took a local translator
with him, but the translator later stole the Egyptian scholar’s money. The
Egyptian scholar then separated his translator and started to live in a
separate house. His translator was angered with this and attacked the Egyptian.
Upon this, the Egyptian scholar fled back to his country. In this manner, Allah
stops the designs of those who oppose the Jamaat.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa narrated an incident from India. This year during a Jamaat book stall, there was great opposition from a Muslim group. They wrote to the book fair committee in which they stated that Ahmadis are kafir and are promoting the wrong translation of the Holy Quran. They demanded to have the Jamaat bookstall prohibited. This was rejected. In return, the Muslim group called the media and expressed their hate towards the Jamaat. They said that Ahmadis are kafir and Pakistan has also declared them this. As a result, the media’s attention turned towards the bookstall of the Jamaat and there were lots of reports on the Jamaat. This turned into a great opportunity for tabligh and the message of the Jamaat was delivered.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then quoted the Promised Messiahas who said that Allah supports His chosen ones and defeats the enemies of His prophet. Prophets become the Khalifah of God. The Promised Messiahas received numerous revelations in which Allah promised His support to him.
The Promised Messiahas openly challenged those who opposed him and said that he would always come out as victorious as Allah has promised this to him.
Huzooraa said that Allah is guiding people towards the Jamaat in miraculous ways. However, those, who are Ahmadis by birth need to play their role in spreading the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat. In the same manner, new converts need to spread the very message that guided them to the truth.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa laid stress on a need to carry out tabligh.
Huzooraa then led the congregation in silent prayer.
Next, various groups recited choral poem before Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.
Trie-Chateau, France, Saturday, 05 October: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, addressed French dignitaries and guests at Jalsa Salana France at approximately 6:30pm local time.
The session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Sebastian Ataul Hayye Sahib who recited verse 14 of Surah al-Hujurat (chapter 49). He also presented the French translation of the verse.
A brief introduction to the Jamaat was presented to the
non-Ahmadi guests present. After, the Mayor of Trie-Chateau, David Didier
addressed the Jalsa in which he said he was honoured to receive Hazrat
Khlaifatul Masih Vaa in the little town of Trie-Chateau.
The next speaker was Dr Agnes De Foe, a Sociologist, who spoke before the Jalsa. Her brief speech encapsulated her interacting with Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya and spoke highly of the message of peace that Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa is promoting.
Dr Katrin Langewiesche, an Anthropologist, spoke of her interacting with the Jamaat in Burkina Faso when the Jamaat was carrying out some charitable works. She also took the opportunity to present her book to Huzooraa, that includes a chapter on Islam Ahmadiyyat.
Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa thanked the guests for joining the “purely religious function”.
Huzooraa then condemned the atrocities and violent attacks that have also taken place in France by so-called Muslim extremists. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa highlighted that Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. “A true Muslim is a person who himself is a peaceful person” Huzooraa explained.
The Islamic greeting itself
portrays how Islam is a religion of peace. Even non-Muslims use this greeting.
Thus, it cannot be that Islam teaches to meet others with peace and security
and on the other hand, promotes hate and extremism.
“All forms of extremism and violence are completely against Islamic teachings”, Huzooraa expressed.
In order to truly
understand the teachings of Islam, one must study the life of its Holy Founder,
peace be upon him.
Huzooraa laid out how inhumane injustices were carried out against Muslims. However, the Holy Prophetsa taught patience. The Holy Prophetsa called upon his followers to remain peaceful even if it costed their lives.
The Holy Prophetsa and his companions endured this relentless pain and then migrated out of their city to escape this agony. However, the enemies of Islam continued to pursue them and cause pain to Muslims. Finally, Allah gave permission to fight in defence to safeguard religion.
“Hence, when the Holy Prophetsa and his followers were forced to partake in wars and battles, it was for the sake of defending the rights of all people” including people of other faiths, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained.
If Islam wanted to spread its teachings with force, then why would the Holy Quran explicitly state that it was the duty of Muslims to safeguard all people and their rights? Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa exampled that early Muslims gave their life to uphold and establish the principles of “individual liberty, freedom of religion and freedom of belief”, which are the “corner stones of Islam.” Chapter 2 verse 257 of the Holy Quran encapsulates this freedom, Huzooraa explained.
The Holy Prophetsa and the four Rightly Guided Caliphs never usurped rights of others. Rather they promoted freedom and peace. The Holy Prophetsa, after migrating to Medina, formed a treaty with the Jews of Medina.
“The Muslims and the Jews pledged to cooperate and to be faithful citizens of the state” Huzooraa said. They were able to practice their religion and customs without the fear of sanctions or persecution. The Holy Prophetsa never deviated from this covenant.
Islam has never permitted its followers to spread their faith “through the use of force”. The treaty of Medina enabled all people to practice their beliefs and traditions and were duty bound to be loyal citizens of the state and to refrain from all activities that would undermine the peace of the city.
Keeping these aspects in mind, it is not accurate to attribute the deeds of a minority of Muslims who commit atrocities to the religion of Islam. Huzooraa said that “from cover to cover” the Holy Quran is replete with guidance that instruct Muslims to avail “every opportunity for attaining peace in the world.”
Allah the Almighty instructed the Holy Prophetsa to convey the message of Islam and thereafter leave the matter to Allah.
The Holy Quran never once advocated violence or force against those who shunned its teachings, rather “it called on Muslims to exhibit tolerance and patience” Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that “Islam’s teachings are categorical that violent conquest or forceful conversion are strictly prohibited”. Any act or conduct that is detrimental to the peace of society is forbidden in Islam.
The Holy Prophetsa taught that a true Muslim is he from whose tongue and hands, others are safe. The Holy Prophetsa made it clear that Muslims must protect and care for all members of society, irrespective of faith.
Consequently, terrorists
who commit suicide bombings, attack night clubs etc. are all guilty of
violating the teachings of Islam.
The Holy Quran has also
given guiding principles of day-to-day life that promote peace. For example
chapter 2 verse 189 of the Holy Quran promotes fair trade and upholding the
integrity of all transactions. Allah instructs Muslims to acquire wealth in an
honest and truthful manner, not being unjust.
Chapter 83 verses 2-4, the
Holy Quran condemns those who are exploitative in business transactions, try to
short-change others while demanding more than their due, in return. Such people
are cursed and will be disgraced.
The Holy Quran has given guidance for internal conflicts as well. The Islamic focus is always in establishing sustainable peace. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa referred to chapter 49, verse 10 of the Holy Quran that details how two conflicting parties or nations should be dealt with, in a just and peaceful manner. Huzooraa said that the verse captures a means of lasting peace, if acted on.
However, regrettably, many
Muslim nations fail to act upon this Quranic injunction.
Today, we observe that cruelty and injustices are perpetrated by dominant powers in the name of upholding peace. Such instability is beneficial to none, except terrorists.
Huzooraa said that in both east and the west, “The blue skies of peace and prosperity have given way to heavy clouds of war and injustice”. Nations are being torn apart across the world. Until and unless international relations are based upon justice and integrity and fulfilling the rights of others, peace cannot be established.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that he can only pray that mankind does not repeat the mistakes of the past.
If we look back to the
period after the First World War, the League of Nations failed miserably in its
task to maintain peace. This was because “justice and fairness did not
prevail”. As a result, the most deadly war (WWII), in the history of mankind,
erupted.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa explained how modern warfare would be the most deadly – due to nuclear arms. A war would ensure “the most horrific and devastating legacy” of our children. Huzooraa then painted a picture of what the consequences of a nuclear war would bring.
“Thus no one should be under the illusion that this world crisis we are passing through is trivial or something that will heal itself without us changing our behaviour” Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa noted.
If the lack of peace
continues to be attributed towards the “door of Islam”, grievances will
continue.
If Muslim countries or
terrorist groups continue to perpetrate atrocities in the name of Islam then it
is only for their vested interests, it is not Islam.
“Today’s conflicts and wars have nothing to do with religion, rather they are all about attaining wealth, power and geopolitical dominance”, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said.
“Let it be, that our future generations come to remember us with love and affection rather than hate and resentment”, Huzooraa said.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa ended his speech by once again thanking the guests for attending.
Huzooraa then led the congregation in silent prayer.
Before leaving, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa launched the new French Review of Religions website.
Trie-Chateau,
France, Saturday, 05 October: Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, graced the ladies’ Jalsa Gah on
the second day of Jalsa Salana France at 12:37 local time.
The Lajna session started with the
recitation of the Holy Quran by Anam Khalon Sahiba, who recited verses 21-22 of
Surah al-Hadid (chapter 57). Hajrah Hadi Sahiba presented the Urdu translation.
The verses highlighted that man tends
to take this world as “nothing but (temporary) enjoyment” and competition with
one another in attaining riches. In comparison to this, one should vie with one
another in seeking forgiveness and attaining heaven that has been prepared for
believers.
Next, an Urdu
poem written by the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, was read out by Amatul
Basir Mansoor Sahiba. The couplets drew attention towards the hereafter and the
fact that all will be presented in front of our Lord. Believers should always
remember that Allah can alleviate all problems and one should plead only before
Allah.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then presented awards of academic excellence to 39 Lajna members, including international students.
Thereafter, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa addressed the congregation. After Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and the recitation of Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa stated that as he had mentioned in his recent Friday Sermon, the world is moving away from God. A lot of people reject the existence of God in this society; this trend has also affected some Ahmadis, both young and old.
Hazrat Amirul
Momineenaa said that in such an atmosphere, it is essential to
bring oneself and one’s children closer to Allah. Elders should present such
examples in front of children that enable them to draw closer to Allah and His
love.
This responsibility is for men and women both. Allah and His Prophetsa have placed the responsibility of the upbringing of children upon mothers, and this is no easy task. Mothers present their children in the scheme of Waqf-e-Nau but cannot just leave them to their fate after that; tarbiyyat at home is essential.
Some mothers
pay more attention towards their sons only but this is not right. Here in the western
society, tarbiyyat is a very sensitive issue. Tarbiyyat should be carried out
with great care and consideration.
If men are not
carrying out their responsibilities properly, then women should also guide them
towards the right path.
The Holy Prophetsa said that his companionsra are guides for Muslims. These include both men and women companionsra. Huzooraa said that there were women companionsra who would show great examples. They would worship all night and then fast during the day. As a result, men would complain to the Holy Prophetsa, saying that their wives worshipped all day and night. The Holy Prophetsa had to guide those women companionsra and tell them to adopt a middle path. Thus, if there was a complaint, it was that they would worship all day and night. This was also the same for men. Some women companionsra would complain that their husbands worshipped day and night.
Allah has told us to follow such people. It was the example of the lady companionsra that they would beautify themselves for their husbands only and not for the world. They established such examples from which Allah and His Prophetsa were pleased.
Huzooraa said that today we observe that there are mothers who beautify themselves, leave their children, and go out with friends. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa also noted that men also sometimes tell their wives to attend mix parties and not do pardah.
Huzooraa instructed that we should ask ourselves if accepting the Promised Messiahas has brought about any change in us. If our worship has not developed to the extent that Allah requires of us, then we are not fulfilling the purpose of our creation.
Men have been
commanded to attend mosques, while women have been given the concession to pray
at home and gain the same blessings as men. However, if a woman does not take
benefit from such an opportunity then they are at great loss.
When women begin to worship Allah more attentively, they will be able to carry out good deeds as well and the sense of following Allah and His Prophetsa will begin to manifest within them.
The wife has
the responsibility of safeguarding the house and the children of the husband.
If the husband is not at home, the wife has the responsibility of the children.
When children come home from school, the mother should be there for them.
If Ahmadi women fulfil this responsibility, then we will have a generation of pious children. However, Huzooraa said, that along with being good examples, mothers must also pray for their children. Those mothers who show good examples and also pray for their children, most often than not, their children grow up to become pious and religious and more mindful of their parents’ rights.
Fathers must
also help their wives in the upbringing of children. Without the attention of
fathers, children cannot be brought up in the desired Islamic way. If mothers
are unduly scolding their children, fathers should play their roles wisely.
They should not counter their wives’ behavior in the presence of their children
but discuss it at a later point.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that modern research suggests that children express their feelings better with their mothers up to the age of 15-16. However, they do not have such a relation with fathers. Huzooraa said that in our culture, at the age of 15-16, fathers and sons tend to develop a distance which is not helpful in tarbiyyat. Fathers and children should always have a friendly relationship.
Western
research states that children keep a relationship with their fathers even after
the ages of 15-16 because their fathers do not stop them from immoral acts.
However, Ahmadi fathers should keep this relation and friendship so that they
can attach their children with religion and distance them from immoral
behaviour.
In Western society, in the name of freedom, certain things are taught to children that they cannot even comprehend at their age. In the name of knowledge, such education is ending up pushing children into the darkness of immorality. In such an atmosphere, it is vital that Ahmadi mothers first learn and gain knowledge themselves. Then, if their child questions them about indecent things like sexual relationships, then without shying away, mothers should answer and tell them that this is not the age for them to discuss such matters.
An Ahmadi
woman, through her example and prayers, need to adopt such high levels of
tarbiyyat that it can be said that these women are giving the Jamaat a very valuable
asset in the form of their children.
Such children will be admired by the world for not indulging in immoral acts and for having an interest only in gaining the blessings of Allah. People around them should be able to say that these children only care about being part of Allah’s promise to the Promised Messiahas that his community will excel in knowledge and understanding.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that Ahmadi mothers should be such wives that embody the words of the Holy Prophetsa and become “of the best provision.”
Our Allah fulfils his promises. Those who draw towards Him and listen to His commandments, Allah grants worldly needs to such believers. Allah will provide for them in such a manner that they would not have imagined.
Having settled
in the Western world, people develop an unreasonable desire for wealth.
Sometimes, women begin to demand more from their husbands but then there are
such men who themselves strive for more and more wealth. The pressure is not
only from wives but sometimes from mothers and sisters also.
There are men who try to gain wealth in a wrong manner. Huzooraa said that not all Ahmadi men are exemplary. Wives of such men who evade taxes and commit benefit frauds should question their husbands. They should tell their husbands that they do not want unlawfully earned money for themselves or their children. This can reform Ahmadi men and bless their humble earnings. Those who strive to increase righteousness, Allah develops contentment within them.
Mothers should
also keep in mind that for the tarbiyyat of girls, they should show their own
examples. Modesty is the sign of women. They should tell girls, from the age of
5-6 years old, that society does not protect their modesty and that they have
to do this themselves.
Some girls think that their mothers observe an overdue level of pardah due to being uneducated and backward. Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that without any inferiority complex, Ahmadi women should shun all clothing that is against modesty.
Our girls should stay away from such professions that require them to dress immodestly. If women today free themselves from pardah, the danger is that future generations would drift further away from it.
The Promised Messiahas said that societies like Europe are abandoning pardah and this is becoming the root of immorality and drawing them away from religion.
In western
society, instead of having an inferiority complex, women should tell others not
to interfere with their pardah, as it is a matter of their own faith.
We should always remember the teachings of the Promised Messiahas to adopt righteousness.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa prayed for every Ahmadi woman and girl to put their religion first.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa then led the congregation in silent prayer. This was followed by choral poems by various Lajna groups.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa blesses Jalsa Salana France
On the main boulevard of Saint Germain in Paris is seated the life-size statue of Denis Diderot. It was in the salons of Paris that he would hold meetings with the French intelligentsia. It was through these discussions that atheism – as we know it today – was born. He is considered an instrumental figure of what is known as French Enlightenment. How enlightening the historical phase known as French Enlightenment was, we need not go into details here.
What we know is that the latest episode of true enlightenment has just taken place on the land of France. Earlier this afternoon, at 2pm local time, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa, the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community opened the annual convention – Jalsa Salana – of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, France. Huzooraa had arrived at the scenic countryside of Trie Chateau earlier during the week; it is from here that he has called the world to Islam through his very enlightening Friday Sermon.
With his Friday Sermon commenced the 27th Jalsa Salana of France.
Minutes before the Sermon, Huzooraa hoisted the Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat to mark the inauguration of Jalsa Salana.
In his Friday Sermon – globally watched live via MTA International – Huzooraa reminded members of the Jamaat what Jalsa Salana calls for and how important it is to benefit from the three days of Jalsa Salana.
The primary message of his Friday Sermon was a reminder of what is expected of a good Muslim. Salat, Huzooraa said, is of primary importance in one’s faith. Offering prayers in congregation, said Huzooraa, is equally important as the offering of Salat itself, hence it is important to offer Salat in mosques as much as is possible for one.
Huzooraa said that the first question to be asked on the Day of Judgement will be about Salat. If, in replying to this question, one falls short, their voluntary prayers will help compensate for it. Huzooraa emphasised that it is only through taqwa that Salat can be offered in its purest form.
Allah has made it clear that Salat is obligatory for every believer, and He has also expressed His immense love and mercy for those who offer voluntary prayers.
Taqwa, or the fear of God, also instigates other elements that enable one to become a better person. It is taqwa that encourages one to forgive others and to be loving towards their fellow beings.
Huzooraa said that Allah has promised his mercy and love for those who love and have mercy on their fellows. The slogan of “Love for All, Hatred for None” will only come true if we start practising it in its true essence from the smallest unit of the society; it is from our homes that this great charity will begin and span over the society at large.
Huzooraa, at the end of his Friday Sermon, prayed that Allah enable us to fulfil our pledge of allegiance to the Promised Messiahas which, in essence, is to live our lives according to the beautiful teachings of Islam.
Huzoor’saa addresses to Jalsa Salana France will be broadcast live on MTA International on Saturday, 5 and Sunday, 6 October.
(Hazrat Bhai Abdur Rahman Qadiani’sra account of Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad’sra visit to France in 1924, taken from his diary, published as Safar-e-Europe)
French newspaper, Le Matin published the news of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II’sra visit to France on 30 October 1924 during his tour of Europe. The Grand Mosque of Paris can be seen in the background.
Paris,
30 October 1924: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad,
Khalifatul Masih II[ra] went out for sightseeing in the city of
Paris on the morning of 30 October 1924. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud[ra]
left straight after breakfast and was accompanied by Chaudhry Zafrulla Khan
Sahiband Khalifah Taqiuddin Sahib. Lunch was served upon Huzoor’s[ra]
return to the hotel at around 1:30pm.
Huzoor[ra] had planned to offer
Zuhr and Asr prayers at the Grand Mosque of Paris, so he started getting ready
to head there straight after lunch. Accompanying Huzoor[ra], we all
left the hotel at 3pm for the mosque.
It was raining heavily and in this rain of
blessings, Huzoor[ra] entered the Grand Mosque of Paris. Local
residents and the administration of the mosque saw the scene of Huzoor[ra]
entering the mosque with great excitement and welcomed him with great honour.
The architect showed Huzoor[ra]
around the mosque and led him to the mihrab. As the building is still
underway, they moved the rubble aside to clear the area for Salat. They had
laid mats and rugs to make the place for prayer as comfortable as possible.
Huzoor[ra], standing in the mihrab, asked Hafiz Roshan Ali
Sahib to call the Azan. Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahib recited the Azan with such a
melody that everyone present was deeply moved. It was as if the universe had
just come into being and every soul had bowed before its Creator.
This Azan was the first Azan ever to be
called in this mosque and the Salat that followed – led by Hazrat Khaifatul
Masih II[ra] – was the first ever salat to be offered in this
mosque. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] combined both Zuhr and Asr
prayers. The following gentlemen were in congregation:
1. Abdur
Rahman Qadiani (the author)
2. Chaudhry
Zafrulla Khan Sahib
3. Dr
Hashmatullah Khan Sahib
4. Chaudhry
Ali Muhammad Sahib
5. Abdur
Rahim Dard Sahib
6. Malik
Nawab Din Sahib
7. Khalid
Sheldrake Sahib
8. Misbahuddin
Sahib
9. Khalifa
Taqiuddin Sahib
10. Hafiz
Roshan Ali Sahib
11. Sheikh
Yaqub Ali Irfani Sahib
12. Zulfiqar
Ali Khan Sahib
13. Hazrat
Mirza Sharif Ahmad Sahib
14. Sheikh Abdur
Rahman Misri Sahib
15. Chaudhry
Fateh Muhammad Sahib
16. Chaudhry
Muhammad Sharif Sahib
17. Abdur
Rahim Nayyar Sahib
18. Dr Malik
Muhammad Ismail Sahib
The administration invited Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih II[ra] to tea and Huzoor accepted their offer. The
tea was more of an infusion and not the traditional breakfast tea that is
served with biscuits. The way they served us the tea expressed their deep love
and sincerity.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra in the Paris Mosque
During tea, Huzoor[ra]
expressed his gratitude for the hosts and prayed that may Allah reward them for
the good deed of building the mosque. Huzoor also thanked the French government
on the good gesture of allowing the mosque to be built in their country. As the
majority of those present were of Moroccan or of other Arabic origin, Sheikh
Abdur Rahman Misri Sahib translated Huzoor’s[ra] words into Arabic.
The architect of the mosque came out saw
him off. It was still raining but as we had to board the train to Italy, Huzoor[ra]
walked to his car in the rain. As soon as we arrived at the hotel, we started
preparing for the journey that we were to embark upon later that night. Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih II[ra] himself packed his luggage and assigned
various duties to us all – cargo bookings, train reservations etc.
We arrived at the Gare de Lyon Station of
Paris. The clerical staff, the porters and all other railway staff could not
understand a single word we spoke in English and we could not grasp a single
word of French. The whole situation became very amusing, but we were concerned
about missing our train. Something had to be done.
Our train was scheduled to depart at
9:20pm and it was already 8:45pm. Porters had loaded our baggage onto trollies
but left without moving the trollies. Finally, Huzoor[ra] arrived
and we all felt relieved. Chaudhry Zafrullah Khan Sahib and Khalid Sheldrake
Sahib had to do a bit of running around before issues were resolved and we were
just about able to catch the train.
As we anxiously ran to catch the train,
passengers and bystanders looked on in great excitement. The train was about to
set off when we somehow managed to haphazardly throw in our luggage and jump
aboard ourselves.
The train had just started to move when
someone said that our booked luggage had not been boarded. Abdur Rahim Nayyar
Sahib was given a 10-pound note and told to immediately get off the train and
come with the luggage the following day. It was later discovered that the
luggage had been boarded on our train. It was by the sheer grace of Allah that
this near impossible task was accomplished, albeit with great difficulty. It
was as if each one of us had a dozen angels as helpers.
As the train started to head towards our
destination, putting all the scattered luggage together was a big task. Sheikh
Abdur Rahman Misri Sahib supervised this. That done, everyone started to feel
hungry, so food was served – this
helped in diverting our attention from the worries of the journey.
Having eaten well, we all felt like talking to other passengers and try to do a
bit of tabligh to them. After all, this was the primary purpose of the whole
tour anyway.
There were four French passengers in the
compartment that I sat in, three men and a woman. They had a French newspaper
which they would glance at and then start staring at us. We tried to break the
ice by talking to them but of course they would not understand a word, sign
language also proved to be of no avail.
Finally, they held out the newspaper
towards us, showed us a photograph and asked which one of us that was. The
photograph was of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] that a newspaper
had published with the story of Huzoor’s[ra] presence in Paris.
Although with great difficulty, we were
able to somehow communicate to them that the person in the photograph is a man
of God and is seated in the first-class compartment right now.
We told them that he wears a white turban
and that makes him easily recognisable. I am sure that they would have
definitely caught a glimpse of Huzoorra when we all disembarked the
train as they seemed to be inquisitive. I had a few franks in my pocket which I
offered them in exchange of the newspaper. They refused to accept the money but
gave us the copy of the newspaper. We were aware of this photograph being
published along with the news but had not been able to get it, so by the grace
of Allah, we were able to obtain it this way.
On 30
September, after the Waqifaat-e-Nau of Netherlands met Huzooraa, a
group of Waqf-e-Nau Khuddam and Atfal also had a class with Hazrat Khalifatul
Masih Vaa.
The class started with the recitation of
the Holy Quran, followed by translation. Thereafter, the Waqifeen delivered
Hadith, Malfuzat and a presentation on the existence of God by two members of
Khuddam.
Thereafter, the Khuddam and Atfal asked
Huzooraa various questions and sought guidance.
A young Tifl asked Huzooraa why
God created the universe. Upon this, Huzooraa lovingly said that it
was God’s decision to create the universe. Huzooraa further stated
that God had made the universe, then the world and then man. God has stated
that He has not created this world in vein, but there is a purpose behind it.
Huzooraa stated that when the boy gets older, he would understand.
A Tifl asked how one can spread Ahmadiyyat
in schools. Huzooraa stated that we should show a good example, pray
five times daily, be good in our daily lives and work and study hard. By doing
so, we will attract people through our pious examples.
One young Khadim asked Huzooraa
if becoming a missionary was compulsory for Waqifeen-e-Nau.
Upon this, Huzooraa stated that
it is not compulsory for Waqifeen to go to Jamia and become missionaries. If a
Khadim is interested in becoming a doctor, engineer, architect or lawyer, then
they may do so. Huzooraa further stated that Waqifeen should write
to him about what they opt for as their future professions.
One young boy asked Huzooraa
what prayer he made to God that made him such a pious man of God. Upon this,
Huzooraa stated that he should pray that God gives us all the
strength to be righteous people and follow the words of the Khalifa. This is
what we should actually pray for.
One young boy requested Huzooraa
for prayers as his eyes were very weak. Upon this, Huzooraa
instructed him to write to Huzooraa and send his medical report.
The last question was on the definition of
being unsuccessful.
Huzooraa
replied by saying that one should strive hard and pray to God. Then, one should
leave it to God and know that the outcome is the result of God’s will. One
should not lose hope in God.
