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In loving memory of Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Advocate

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In loving memory of Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Advocate

Asif M Basit

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On 30 July, I woke up to see my mobile phone buzzing with messages. A sad news awaited me on the screen of my phone. A noble friend of mine, Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Advocate had sadly passed away. My heart sank with utter grief. With this, my ten-year connection with him came to an end.

This journey of affection started with the initiation of the live broadcast of Rah-e-Huda in May 2009. In the early days, when this programme started, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa would himself nominate and give guidance with regard to the guests on the panel. These were the initial days of Rah-e-Huda and hence, Huzooraa gave special attention to this show.

Huzooraa would, with utmost attention, listen to every question and then would provide his guidance accordingly with regard to the guests who should be invited to answer questions.

I would always envy these selected guests. How fortunate they were that their names were selected by their beloved Khalifa to defend Islam and its pious teachings.

For the first time, soon after, the events of 1974 were to be discussed in an upcoming programme. I was present in the blessed company of beloved Huzooraa and I had not yet completed seeking guidance on this matter when Huzooraa said, “Take Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Sahib live on telephone.”

I instantly made a note of this for implementation. Then a stage came when doctrinal discussions with regard to 1974 were to be discussed. When I requested guidance of Huzooraa, he instructed, “Mujeeb Sahib is capable enough to answer religious questions.”

With this, Huzooraa also gave a name of a religious scholar to be taken as a guest in the programme. This was the first time I ever had the privilege to talk to the late Mujeeb Sahib. I had known him well, but I had never had the privilege of meeting him. I searched and dialed his phone number instantly.

He was a great scholar and hence I always felt a strong sense of his presence. When he picked up the phone and answered, all my apprehensions vanished. He spoke with such affection and involved me in such an interesting discussion and encouraged me so much that all nervousness went away and I felt comfortable to talk to him. When I told him that Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa had himself graciously appointed him to be a guest in the programme, I felt his heart thumping with joy even on the phone call.

When I enquired about a certain time and a certain day for the programme and if he was able to participate in it, he instantly replied in astonishment, “I have been ordered by Huzooraa and now there remains no question about my choice. Wherever and whatever condition I may be in, I will most definitely participate!”

Here, I will also recount the rest of the discussion that occurred in this phone call as it would always be a part of our normal discussions whenever I contacted him later. He would ask: Who else is on the panel? What are the questions for the other participants? Can you send all the questions to me via email? How much time would you have for my answer? (This last question would provide me the most joy as there were very few who would empathise with me in such a manner.)

Hence, these questions were a part of every discussion we had. Then, he would further assist us by pointing out the starting and ending points of his answers. His detailed understanding of the programme and the questions allotted to him, patiently listening to the answers of other participants and granting due importance and attention to their answers, answering questions appropriately and to the point and keeping in view the focal point of the questioner were some of the key points of Mujeeb Sahib’s personality that made him popular and equally adored by all and hence, one of my favourite panellists on this show.

This is a sketch of how we planned our programmes. Alongside this, we also had to take live questions as well. Sometimes we would be completely unaware of the context in which those questions were asked. Being the host of the programme, I always had the ease with regard to all the difficult and tricky questions that were asked in that I would pass the baton to Mujeeb Sahib and then Mujeeb Sahib would calmly answer the question and after satisfying the questioner, would return to his position.

Whatever the tone of the questioner was, Mujeeb Sahib would always keep to his noble demeanour and polite response. He would, in the most appropriate and noble manner, grant answers to questioners in accordance with their disposition.

After almost a year, a request with regard to a certain programme was presented before Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa. Due to some constraints, no guest could be taken live via telephone. Huzooraa graciously permitted us to invite Mujeeb Sahib to London.

Hence, Mujeeb Sahib was our guest in the true sense. This was my first ever face to face meeting with Mujeeb Sahib. I had always learnt something from his discussions, but this time, I also learnt from his personality, his routines and his character.

Mujeeb Sahib was certainly amongst those people who can be termed as institutions in their day to day lives. Many would come and benefit from his diverse experience and knowledge. I take pride in the fact that I learnt a lot from Mujeeb Sahib. The effect of learning is enlarged if the person is also a good orator along with his knowledge and experience. Mujeeb Sahib perfected these three traits to the highest extent. I would also have the privilege to accompany Mujeeb Sahib from the guest house at Gressenhall Road to the MTA Studios at Baitul Futuh, Morden.

At other occasions, I would request my colleagues to do so. Whenever I went to pick him up, I found him ready on time. With regard to the answers of questions that had been prepared, I always knew that Mujeeb Sahib would efficiently prepare all his answers in detail, but now, when it came to record the programme in the studios, I saw that Mujeeb Sahib would also take care of his appearance, which would be immaculate. There was no extravagance, yet his appearance was dignified. Even his shoes were always neat and well polished.

When picking Mujeeb Sahib up from the Fazl Mosque, I would reach the guest house before time, in case I could be of any help to Mujeeb Sahib. At the agreed time, I always found Mujeeb Sahib ready for the programme.

He loved reading. Books were always lying on his bedside. He would study in depth. He would examine the writer’s point, understand it and then would make others understand it. Most of the time, he would assert that the writer had referred to a certain book with regard to a certain point and that it would be easier to understand it if that original book could be obtained.

Many a time, I would receive his call from Pakistan about a book recently published and would ask me to send him a copy from London due to its unavailability in Pakistan or to keep them with me and he would take them from me on his next visit.

A book by Ali Usman Qasmi detailing events post-1953 about the persecution of Ahmadis was published. I received a phone call from Mujeeb Sahib at around 9pm in London, which is 1am in Pakistan. He asked me if I had read the book. When I told him that I had, he discussed two or three parts of that book with me. He had found the book to be an interesting one. He also had some reservations with regard to certain parts of the book and said that, in his understanding, certain parts demanded further explaining. He expressed all three views with appropriate emotions and in a well composed manner.

The matter to be highlighted here is that he was always aware of the newly published books; he was always eager to get his hands on the printed copy, then comment on its contents and encourage others to read it. This was a wonderful hobby of Mujeeb Sahib.

Once, for an MTA programme, some famous guests such as Dr Ayesha Jalal, Prof Francis Robinson and Prof Ian Talbot were invited as guests. I sought Huzoor’saa guidance in this regard and he appointed Mujeeb Sahib as the host of this programme. I had planned to invite him as a guest in the programme as a professional jurist and had the name of a young lawyer in my mind to host this show.

However, I noted what Huzooraa had instructed and informed Mujeeb Sahib accordingly. Mujeeb Sahib had always participated in MTA programmes as an expert. He accepted the responsibility readily and wholeheartedly, but, once or twice, he mentioned his anxiety as a host as he had never had the experience. But more than that, he was also concerned if he would be able to fulfil the expectations of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. Apart from this concern that was natural, Mujeeb Sahib invested such a great amount of time and effort for the programme that it is a perfect example for all hosts to follow. Dr Ayesha Jalal, Prof Robinson and Prof Talbot are historians and academics who are considered to be the most authentic specialists in the history of South Asia.

Mujeeb Sahib asked for the original writings of these academics beforehand and studied them all. He familiarised himself with each and every topic discussed in their books in detail.

In those days, when I would visit Mujeeb Sahib in the mornings, I would find him occupied in studying books, and when I would visit him in the evening, he would be further indulged. What is the temperament of the guest? What is their point of view with regard to the Jamaat? What questions should be put forward to them and in what manner should these be asked? During those days, all such questions were the focal point of Mujeeb Sahib’s attention and all day, he would remain busy in crafting and composing the questions to ask.

Then came the day when the programme was to be recorded. It was natural to be taken aback by the commanding presence of Mujeeb Sahib. His knowledge and his noble character were the key factors that made him so. Before the programme could start, Mujeeb Sahib had already befriended all the guests. The discussion that was recorded was scholarly. Not for a single instance did Mujeeb Sahib impose an impression of his scholarly superiority, rather he presented such questions that spoke of his in-depth knowledge of the subject.

A scholarly answer demands a scholarly question and hence, we were able to profit highly from the prolific presence of Mujeeb Sahib as a host and we produced some high quality programmes.

In another programme, a well-known jurist and lawyer, Abid Hassan Minto was invited to London. This programme was hosted by Amjad Mahmood Khan Sahib of USA. I once again witnessed Mujeeb Sahib immersed in books for the preparation of this programme. The laws of Pakistan was the subject-matter of the programme and this was Mujeeb Sahib’s favourite topic. Of course, Mujeeb Sahib was aware of this topic in detail as he was constantly following the cases of Ahmadis in Pakistan, yet whenever I got to see him in those days, I found him immersed in books acquiring knowledge. It was as if he was preparing for an exam.

This is indeed a perfect example for all guests of such programmes.

Here, I would like to mention another important matter. When I got acquainted with Mujeeb Sahib, he had become infirm and walked with great difficulty. He would use a wheelchair. I would escort him from the Fazl Mosque in London to Baitul Futuh and from there, I would take him to the MTA Studios with Mujeeb Sahib in his wheelchair and there he would take his seat. But whenever external guests were invited, he would ask me to stop the wheelchair outside the studio and would walk into the studio himself. He would say that as they were our guests, he did not wish to go in front of them on a wheelchair.

Albeit with difficulty, Mujeeb Sahib would approach such guests on foot and then the recording would start.

Mujeeb Sahib was one who not only had extreme love for Khilafat but also had the capability to impart this love in the hearts of the Ahmadi youth. He would regularly write letters to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. He would read what he had written many times before he sent it to ensure that he had not written anything incorrect. Sometimes he would also give me his letter to see if what he had written was appropriate.

He would write letters with extreme love and then would wait for the answers with extreme concern. When he received the reply, it would be a moment of extreme pleasure for him.

Once, whilst in London, he was recounting his life story to me at my request. He said, “My father wished for me to devote my life as a missionary.”

Having said this, he felt sad as he could not fulfil his father’s wish. Whilst telling me this, he became emotionally overwhelmed and started weeping. He repeated this desire on many occasions and always with a trembling voice.

His utmost desire was to offer the remaining days of his life for the service of Islam and was passionate to request Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa for the acceptance of this very desire.

One day, he told me that he had sent the application. At that time, he was almost 80 years old. Later, he flew back to Pakistan and we never got the chance to discuss this matter further. I also forgot and never asked him about the request he had made to Huzooraa. However, after many weeks, he called me at night. I was stunned to receive a call at this unusual hour of the night. When I picked up the phone, the ecstasy was pouring out from Mujeeb Sahib’s every word, and he exclaimed, “I have got the reply!” I responded, “Reply for what?” He humbly replied: “Remember, I told you about a letter I wrote to Huzooraa requesting to accept my waqf for the propagation of Islam. Huzooraa has said that what I am doing right now is no less than waqf and Huzooraa has prayed for the acceptance of my services.”

The reply from Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa strengthened his emotions. He was pleased for this accreditation. Perhaps the answer was a profound signal of joy and relief for his father Maulana Zill-ur-Rahman Sahib’s resting soul. The fact is that Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Sahib could not formally serve as a life devotee, however, his services were accepted by Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa as a waqf-e-zindagi. And it is the reality that the opportunity to sacrifice time and effort availed by Mujeeb Sahib for the service of his faith is enviable.

He presented the Jamaat’s point of view in courts courageously by exhibiting nobility at its best. He presented the issues faced by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community before international organisations. He presented the reports of persecutions upon minorities and Ahmadis in institutions like Harvard. All this and much, much more comprised the services provided by Mujeeb Sahib to the Jamaat.

Huzooraa would include him in various committees on legal matters and would value his opinion. What more could be referred to as great service? Here another thing is worth mentioning. Authority is highly sought after by many. Everyone seems to be after power and wishes for authority.

After witnessing the services provided by Mujeeb Sahib, I would often elaborate authority in two separate meanings. One in its literal meaning and the other is in the meaning of credential. It would then come to my mind that why not strive for the authority that holds the status of credential and that we should strive to excel in some particular field and attain the highest status and hence become the Sultan-e-Naseer (best of helpers) of Khilafat.

May Allah fulfil this vacuum which, in its entirety, is a big vaccum and may He grant our beloved Huzooraa helpers in all fields to assist him with the best of their capabilities.

The last time I heard from Mujeeb Sahib was on 11 July 2019. I received an email in which he wrote that he had had a heart attack and was admitted at Tahir Heart Institute, Rabwah. He was sick and bedridden and was remembering his close ones; it was then that he remembered me.

He said that he had come to know that I had written a book on Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya. “If you can send it to me then it will likely give me a new desire to live. Can you please send it to me?” asked Mujeeb Sahib.

I replied that I would most certainly send it. The days of Jalsa were near. I had planned to send the book through one of the guests travelling back to Pakistan from Jalsa Salana UK. I got occupied in Jalsa. I had bought the book and kept it and wished to hand it over to someone to take it for Mujeeb Sahib. During the busy routine of Jalsa, it is a routine to check text messages or emails received overnight that might need urgent attention.

On 30 July, I woke up to read the sad news of the demise of Mujeeb Sahib.

اِنَّا لِلّٰہِ وَاِنَّا اِلَیۡہِ رَاجِعُوۡنَ

Where should I send the book now? And how should I convey my feelings to him? I shall just write it here:

“Very Respected Mujeeb-ur-Rahman Sahib. After salutations, I would like to say that what hope of life could my writing give to you? But your words with regard to my book have indeed blown a new spirit in me. You had many a time blown a new spirit in me. After my parents, the people I am indebted to for inculcating the love of Khilafat in my heart, you are most certainly among them.

“There are many other favours for which I am in your debt and can never forget you.

“As far as sending you the book is concerned, I cannot send you the book now, even if I strive with all my effort.

“I will live on with this desire, but will not be able to send you my book because no post reaches the place where you have gone. I wish I could.

“I asked so many favours of you and you fulfilled them all.

“You asked a single favour, but I was not able to fulfil it. I delayed it to the point of regret.

“With a request to forgive me I take leave of you. Wassalam. Sincerely yours.”

(Translated by Haseeb Ahmad, Pakistan)

16-22 August

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16-22 August

16 August 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was en route to Europe. The ship carrying this entourage, sailing through the Mediterranean Sea, on this date touched the shores of Brindisi, a port city on the Adriatic Sea, in southern Italy’s Apulia region. Huzoorra boarded a train from this port city to reach Rome. During his 4-day stay in this capital of Christianity, his schedule remained very tight. He was interviewed by national press, had a meeting with the Italian Prime Minister, Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini in his office. Huzoorra intended to meet Roman Catholic Pope Pius IX, but the pontiff was not available due to maintenance work being carried out in his residence. Aside from all these activities, Huzoorra went on a special excursion to visit the Catacombs.

16 August 1946: During the Great Calcutta Killings, a widespread communal riot occurred between Muslims and Hindus in the city of Calcutta (now known as Kolkata) in the Bengal province of British India. The local Jamaat also braved the gravity of the turmoil. Financial losses of Ahmadi traders and shopkeepers were estimated at around 300,000 rupees.

17 August 1925: Hazrat Maulvi Rahmat Alira departed for Indonesia under the auspices of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, with the aim of establishing a mission there. He arrived in Sumatra in September. Despite landing in an alien place, his resolve overcame all possible barriers. He learnt the language, began tabligh and soon started discussions and debates with the local ulema (religious scholars). He established the first Jamaat within a few months, with eight people performing Bai‘at.

17 August 1955: Hazrat Maulvi Abul Ata Sahib was in Quetta and remained occupied in some healthy discussions with a few notables from the Bahai faith. Maulvi Sahib had a strong zeal for tabligh and was a knowledgeable person in the field of comparative studies. Hazrat Maulvi Sahib prepared five research papers about the Bahai faith and these monographs were later read out for further discussion until 22 August. Bahais were also invited for further arguments. This study was later published in book form also.

18 August 1945: Hazrat Sufi Muhammad Hassan Musa Khanra passed away in Perth, Australia at the age of 82 and was buried in Karrakatta cemetery. He entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat in 1903. He remained occupied in serving the Jamaat and Islam in different capacities.

19 August 1946: Maulvi Ghulam Ahmad Mubashar Sahib reached Aden to establish a mission there.

19 August 1953: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Karachi and remained occupied in different Jamaat-related activities and gatherings. Huzoorra delivered an Eid sermon on 21 August; on 24 August, he addressed a gathering of Khuddam; on 26 August, Huzoorra spoke at an event organised by Lajna Imaillah; on 27 August, he graciously blessed a special event designed by the Ahmadiyya Merchants Association; Huzoorra delivered his Friday sermon on 28 August and finally, on 30 August, he spoke to Jamaat Karachi.

19 August 1962: Hazrat Nawab Amatul Hafeez Begumra, daughter of the Promised Messiahas, was in Hamburg during her European sojourn. She blessed the Hamburg mission house with her stay until 22 August.

20 August 1941: Hazrat Munshi Zafar Ahmadra, appeal writer from Kapurthala and noble companion of the Promised Messiahas, passed away on this day. He was amongst those companions who embraced Hazrat Ahmad’sas message very early on and remained loyal and devout to his cause till his final days.

21 August 1949: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra addressed a large gathering of the general public about Islam and contemporary Western philosophy.

22 August 1921: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Kashmir. On this date, Huzoorra went to Sri Nagar’s locality of Khanyar. There, he visited the tomb of Prophet Jesusas and prayed.

22 August 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra reached London’s Victoria Station. During his stay in the city, Huzoorra was interviewed by the correspondents of the The Evening Standard and The Star. A separate press conference was also called and addressed. During the tour, Huzoorra held conferences and events for the propagation of Islam Ahmadiyyat and spoke to various organisations about the truth of Islam. From all aspects, this tour was a success and a constant shower of God’s help and blessings was witnessed.

22 August 1933: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra received an invitation from the USA. World Fellowship of Faiths from Chicago was organising its second international conference between 27 August and 17 September. Huzoorra instructed the missionaries in America, Sufi Muti-ur-Rahman Sahib and Mian Muhammad Yousaf Sahib to attend the convention. Huzoorra graciously penned a powerful message for the forum.

The philosophy of Hajj and sacrifice in Islam

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The philosophy of Hajj and sacrifice in Islam
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An occasion which demonstrates an obligatory worship in the religion of Islam is the institution of Hajj, the journey to the House of Allah, the Ka‘bah.

The concept of pilgrimage, in one form or another, can be found in almost every religion across the globe. However, the pilgrimage in Islam is a unique and universal representation of Muslim unity and the believers’ love for Allah the Almighty.

The history of the blessed Baitullah – the House of Allah, also known as the Ka‘bah – dates back to the era of Prophet Abrahamas, when he searched for the traces of Lord’s first house, which were not known at the time. Through divine guidance, he built it from the ruins with the help of his son Prophet Ishmaelas in Mecca which was then known as Bakkah.

Regarding the greatness and historical importance of the Holy Ka‘bah, it is stated in the Holy Quran:

اِنَّ اَوَّلَ بَیۡتٍ وُّضِعَ لِلنَّاسِ لَلَّذِیۡ بِبَکَّۃَ مُبٰرَکًا وَّ ہُدًی لِّلۡعٰلَمِیۡنَ۔ فِیۡہِ اٰیٰتٌۢ بَیِّنٰتٌ مَّقَامُ اِبۡرٰہِیۡمَ ۬ۚ وَ مَنۡ دَخَلَہٗ کَانَ اٰمِنًا

“Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Bakkah, abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples. In it are manifest Signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.97-98)

Following the command of Allah the Almighty, Prophet Abrahamas placed the foundations of civilisation in a deserted place and left his wife, Hazrat Hajiraas (Hagar) and his son, Ishmaelas to live there. The purpose of this exemplary sacrifice was for the place to serve as the centre of guidance for the world in the future. Hence, from the progeny of Prophet Ishmaelas, a great prophet rose who was the reason behind the creation of the universe and mercy for all mankind. He was none other than the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, whose teachings are for the entire world and for every period of time.

The House of Allah was built around 2,000 years before the advent of Prophet Jesusas and continued to serve as the worship place of one God. However, with the passage of time, it came under influence of the idol-worshippers. Allah the Almighty later restored its glory and grandeur through the hands of the Holy Prophetsa and every single idol was removed from this blessed Baitullah after the victory of Mecca. Soon after, Hajj was made obligatory for every Muslim to perform at least once in their life.

Highlighting the importance of Hajj, the Holy Prophetsa said:

“Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah’s delight and does not carry out foul talk, nor commits any evil or sin, they will return [after Hajj free from sins] as the day in which his mother gave birth to him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Hajj)

Explaining the philosophy and reason behind the institution of Hajj, the Promised Messiahas states:

“In the world of love, the human spirit always circles around its lover and gives a kiss towards its threshold. Likewise, the Holy Ka‘bah is a physical manifestation for all the fervent lovers [of God]. Allah states that this is His house and the Black Stone [Hajr-e-Aswad] is the stone of His threshold. He gave this order so that a person could practically express their ardent love. Hence, pilgrims physically walk around it [the Ka‘bah] at the occasion of Hajj, in a way that they are intensely in love with Allah. They put aside their beauty, shave their head, and walk around the Ka‘bah. They kiss the Black Stone with the thought that it is the stone of the threshold of Allah.

“This physical passion creates spiritual warmth and love, and the body circles His house and kisses the threshold’s stone, and with this, the spirit circles its true lover and kisses its spiritual threshold. Similarly, the soul circulates the true Beloved and kisses His spiritual threshold.

“There is no Shirk [associating partners with Allah] involved in this practice. When a friend receives a letter from a beloved friend, they kiss it as well. No Muslim worships the Holy Ka‘bah, nor do they ask anything from the Black Stone, but only considers it a model of God’s manifestation which has been established by Allah. Just as we lay prostrate on the ground and this prostration is not for the material earth, in exactly the same manner do we kiss the Black Stone, but that kiss is not for the Black Stone. A stone is merely a stone and can neither benefit anyone, nor cause any harm, but it has been bestowed from the hands of the Beloved, Who has declared it to be a manifestation of His threshold.” (Chashma-e-Ma’rifat, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 23, pp. 101-102)

Regarding the time of performing Hajj, Allah the Almighty states in the Holy Quran:

اَلۡحَجُّ اَشۡہُرٌ مَّعۡلُوۡمٰتٌ ۚ فَمَنۡ فَرَضَ فِیۡہِنَّ الۡحَجَّ فَلَا رَفَثَ وَ لَا فُسُوۡقَ ۙ وَ لَا جِدَالَ فِی الۡحَجِّ

“The months of the Hajj are well known; so whoever determines to perform the Pilgrimage in these months should remember that there is to be no foul talk, nor any transgression, nor any quarrelling during the Pilgrimage.” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.198)

The above verse of the Holy Quran refers to the known Islamic months of Shawal, Dhul Qa‘dah and Dhul Hijjah, during which a person begins the preparation of Hajj and eventually performs it between the days of 8 to 13 Dhul Hijjah, according to the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa.

It is worth mentioning here that the Tawaf-e-Ziarah can be performed from 10 Dhul Hijjah till the end of the month. On the other hand, if a pilgrim has performed Tawaf-e-Ziarah and wants to leave Mina two days earlier than 13 Dhul Hijjah, there will be no sin in it according to the Holy Quran, provided everything they do is done with good intentions, acting righteously and fearing God.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“There are two parts of worship: firstly, that a person fears God as one ought to. The fear of God takes a man to the fountain of purity and his soul begins to melt and flow to the Unity of God, making man a true worshipper; secondly, that a person loves God as He is worthy to be loved. God says:

وَالَّذِیۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡۤا اَشَدُّ حُبًّا لِّلّٰہِ

[‘And believers are stronger in their love for Allah’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.166)], we should take all the affections, transitory and mortal, and the love of God as real and true …

“In order to fulfil both these things, Islam has enjoined its followers to offer [five daily] prayers and to perform Hajj. The prayer manifests the aspect of fear, while the Hajj depicts the love of God. Whatever the fear demands, we have it in various postures of the prayer; a man humbles himself and admits his being the servant of God. Whatever is done during the Hajj shows different ways of love.

“In the extreme condition of love, at times, one does not feel the need for clothes; love is also a sort of madness and a lover cannot be looking after his clothes to maintain their fineness.

“There was once a woman in Sialkot, and she was in love with a tailor-master. The people tried all they could to restrain her but she would tear off her clothes and run to him. This condition of dressing is to be met with in the ceremonies of Hajj; man has to shave off the hair on his head; one has to run; one has to kiss – this is the kiss of affection [all the religions have taken kissing to be a sign of affection]. Slaughtering of the ram [sacrifice] is also a sign of excellence of love.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 3, pp. 298-300)

The Holy Prophetsa performed his only Hajj in the year 10 AH but he used to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha on its prescribed date of the Islamic calendar, commemorating the great sacrifice offered by Hazrat Abrahamas.

Prophet Abrahamas stood by the command of Allah on two occasions and set an extraordinary example of sacrifice for the coming generations: firstly, when he saw in a divine vision that he was sacrificing his son, Ishmaelas and became ready to do it for attaining God’s delight; secondly, when he left his son and wife at a place where there was no water, nor the passing of any man.

The objective and true spirit behind the true sacrifice can be understood from the verse of the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty states:

لَنۡ یَّنَالَ اللّٰہَ لُحُوۡمُھَا وَ لَا دِمَآؤُھَا وَلٰکِنۡ یَّنَالُہُ التَّقۡوٰی مِنۡکُمۡ ؕ کَذٰلِکَ سَخَّرَھَا لَکُمۡ لِتُکَبِّرُوا اللّٰہَ عَلٰی مَا ھَدٰٮکُمۡ ؕ وَ بَشِّرِالۡمُحۡسِنِیۡنَ

“Their flesh reaches not Allah, nor does their blood, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him. Thus has He subjected them to you, that you may glorify Allah for His guiding you. And give glad tidings to those who do good.” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.38)

In the explanation of the above verse, it is stated in the The Holy Quran Five-Volume Commentary that this verse throws a flood of light on the essence, inwardness and real object and purpose of sacrifice. It also teaches a supreme lesson, that it is not the outward act of sacrifice which pleases God but the spirit underlying it and the motive behind it. The flesh or blood of the slaughtered animal does not reach God, but rather it is righteousness of the heart which is acceptable to Him.

God demands and accepts total sacrifice of all that is near and dear to us in our material possessions, the ideals that are so dear to us, our honour and life itself. In reality, God wants and demands no offering from us in the form of flesh and blood of animals, but the offering of our hearts.

The Promised Messiahas states:

“Let everyone strive hard to reach the stage where they can say, ‘My life, my death, my sacrifices, my prayers are all for the sake of God. His soul should cry out like that of Hazrat Abrahamas: َ

اَسۡلَمۡتُ لِرَبِّ الۡعٰلَمِیۡنَ

‘I have submitted to the Lord of the worlds.’ (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.132)

“Unless a person is annihilated in God and unless he is dead in Him [prepared to die for His cause] he cannot have a new life. You who are with me can observe and realise that I take the aim of my life to be dedicated for God’s sake. You should look into your lives and find out as to how many of you like this act of mine and how many of you like to dedicate your lives.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p. 100)

Explaining the word sacrifice, the Promised Messiahas stated on one occasion:

“The word qurbani, or sacrifice, is taken from qurb, which means nearness, and this alludes to the fact that the nearness of God is attained when all the desires and passions of the flesh are slain.” (The Honour of Prophets, p. 17)

Hence, it should be borne in mind that along with the apparent or outward act of sacrifice, the spirit and soul underlying it, which is the kernel and essence of the sacrifice, should not be pushed aside or ignored.

A period that demands great sacrifices

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A period that demands great sacrifices
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With Eid-ul-Adha approaching in a few days, we are reminded of a great sacrifice made by a great prophet of Allah, Hazrat Abrahamas along with his family.

Every Muslim, in this period, endeavours to revive the spirit of sacrifice within them for a brighter, promising future. It is the lesson of Abrahamas that enables us to mould ourselves in difficult situations throughout the year, becoming better servants of Allah and His creation.

With Jalsa Salana UK 2019 having concluded successfully, the staff and volunteers of Jalsa Salana will now reflect on their duties at Jalsa and how their services can be improved for the years to come.

Along with the millions of viewers of Jalsa Salana through MTA, most of all, Ahmadis will reflect on the core message delivered to them by Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa through his various addresses, which is to bring about revolutionary transformations within ourselves so that we may be accepted in the sight of Allah.

The days in which we are passing through, all highlight the importance of sacrifice. The duties at Jalsa Salana, the instructions given to us by Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa in his addresses and the important day of Eid-ul-Adha all point to the fact that we must be able to make sacrifices and compromises, both big and small, for others around us and most of all, for the pleasure of Allah.

Many Jamaats around the world will soon be hosting auxiliary ijtemas at national levels. These too will require an immense amount of man-hours and a great deal of effort, reminding us of our actual purpose, which is to introspect and reform ourselves for the sake of humanity and God Almighty.

Reflecting on all these occasions, one distinct characteristic is required for all of us to be successful in our services to Allah and His creation – the sacrifice of one’s ego.

The Promised Messiahas states in one place:

“The reality of Islam is a very superior thing and that no one can truly deserve the title of Muslim till he surrenders the whole of his being to God, together with all his faculties, desires and designs, and till he begins to tread along His path, withdrawing altogether from his ego and all its attendant qualities. A person will be truly called a Muslim only when his heedless life undergoes a total revolution and his evil-directing self, together with all its passions, is wiped out altogether and he is invested with a new life which is characterised by his carrying out all his obligations to Allah and which should comprise nothing except obedience to the Creator and sympathy for His creatures.” (Aina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, pp. 60-61)

On the subject of the reality of sacrifice within Islam, the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas states at another place:

“The reality of Islam is to present one’s neck to God like the sacrificial lamb; to give up one’s own designs and to be devoted to the designs of God and His pleasure; to lose oneself in God and to impose a type of death upon oneself; to be dyed in the personal love of God and to obey Him entirely for the sake of that love; to obtain eyes that see only through Him, and to obtain ears that hear only through Him, and to develop a heart that should be wholly devoted to Him, and to obtain a tongue which would speak only at His command. This is a stage where all search ends; human faculties complete their functions and man’s ego dies completely. Thereupon Divine mercy confers a new life upon the seeker through His living words and His shining light.” (Lecture Lahore, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 20, p. 160)

The Al Hakam team extends its heartiest Eid Mubarak to all our readers with the prayer that Allah enables us to make those sacrifices that are required for the promising future and glory of Islam.

Why did the Promised Messiah a.s. not perform Hajj?

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Why did the Promised Messiah a.s. not perform Hajj?
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An allegation is raised by opponents; they question as to why Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, did not perform Hajj?

Despite being fully aware and well acquainted with the conditions that make the Hajj obligatory upon a Muslim, the opponents obstinately level objections and indiscriminately abandon the very commandments and instructions laid down by Allah the Almighty.

Regarding the conditions of Hajj being compulsory, it is clearly stated in the Holy Quran:

وَ لِلّٰہِ عَلَی النَّاسِ حِجُّ الۡبَیۡتِ مَنِ اسۡتَطَاعَ اِلَیۡہِ سَبِیۡلًا ؕ وَ مَنۡ کَفَرَ فَاِنَّ اللّٰہَ غَنِیٌّ عَنِ الۡعٰلَمِیۡنَ 

“And pilgrimage to the House is a duty which men – those who can find a way thither – owe to Allah. And whoever disbelieves, let him remember that Allah is surely independent of all creatures.” (Surah Ale-Imran, Ch.3: V.98)

There is no doubt, it is mandatory upon every Muslim who is able to travel to Mecca for Hajj once in his lifetime. However, the words of the above verse, “who can find a way thither,” signify three conditions: firstly, a person should have the necessary conveyance for performing the journey; secondly, one should have the required sum of money to bear the expenses; and thirdly, there should be peace and security on the way. (Sunan Abi Dawood)

Moreover, if a person is sick and lacks the energy to “find a way” to reach Mecca, it is not obligatory for him to perform Hajj. (Imam Razi, Tafsir-e-Kabir)

As a matter of fact, the conditions necessary for undertaking the journey of Hajj were not met with in the case of the Promised Messiahas.

Verdicts declaring him an infidel were issued in Mecca and the act of taking his life was considered a virtue. He was attacked on various occasions and attempts were made on his life by other Muslims. On the other hand, he suffered from the diseases of vertigo and diabetes. Hence, lack of health, peace and security were factors that hindered him from performing Hajj.

This allegation was raised within the lifetime of the Promised Messsiahas as well. He responded in a very comprehensive manner. Someone asked, “Opponent maulvis object as to why Mirza Sahib does not undertake the journey to perform Hajj?”

The Promised Messiahas answered:

“These people raise this objection out of mischief. The Holy Prophetsa lived in Medina for ten years. It was only a two-day journey between Medina and Mecca, but the Holy Prophetsa did not perform Hajj for ten years, even though he could have arranged for transport. However, the condition for Hajj is not only sufficient wealth, but it is also important that there is no danger of mischief and there should be means available to reach there with peace. When barbaric natured maulvis are issuing verdicts of death here and do not fear the government, then what else could they not do there? These people have no interest if we do not perform Hajj. If, for instance, I do perform Hajj, then will they consider me a Muslim? And will they join our Jamaat?

“Firstly, these Muslim scholars should write a declaration that if I perform Hajj, then all of them will repent at my hand and will enter my Jamaat and will become of my followers. If they do so and take an oath, then I will perform Hajj. Allah the Almighty will arrange means of convenience for me, so that the discord of maulvis comes to an end in the future. It is not ethical to object mischievously. This objection of theirs does not fall on us but on the Holy Prophetsa as well because the Holy Prophetsa only performed Hajj in his last year.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 5, p. 248)

Pondering over the sayings of the Holy Prophetsa, we find that someone else can perform the obligation of Hajj on behalf of the person who is not able to do so, owing to the lack of conditions which make Hajj mandatory upon him.

Once, a woman of Khatham tribe came to the Holy Prophetsa and asked, “O Messenger Allah! The obligation of Hajj made compulsory by Allah on His servants has become due on my father, but he is old and weak and he cannot sit firmly on the mount; so may I perform Hajj on his behalf?” The Holy Prophetsa replied, “Yes, you may.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Hajj)

Likewise, there is an account of a person who was performing Hajj on behalf of his brother, Shibrima, and the Holy Prophetsa did not forbid him from it. (Sunan Abi Dawood, Kitab al-Manasik).

According to the above-mentioned Ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa, Hajj was performed on behalf of the Promised Messiahas as well. Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahibra states:

“[My] mother told me, ‘Once, the Promised Messiahas, in the final days [of his life], expressed in front of me the intention to perform Hajj. Hence, I managed [to get someone] to perform Hajj on his behalf after his demise.’ My revered mother sent the late Hafiz Ahmadullah Sahibra to perform Hajj-e-Badal on behalf of Hazrat Sahibas and bore all the expenses herself. Hafiz Sahibra was an old companion and passed away a long time ago.” (Sirat-ul-Mahdi, Vol. 1, p. 44)

The Promised Messiahas was not able to perform the obligation of Hajj owing to the hostile conditions and lack of good health etc. If the opponents had pondered over the Holy Quran and the traditions of the Holy Prophetsa, they could have easily understood the factors due to which the Promised Messiahas was unable to undertake the journey of Hajj.

In the end, we present an instance that sheds light upon the deep emotional attachment of the Promised Messiahas towards the holy places of Islam.

Once, someone drew the Promised Messiah’sas attention towards the Holy Ka‘bah in Mecca and the tomb of the Holy Prophetsa in Medina. He became extremely moved and said, “Will I ever be able to see the tomb of the Holy Prophetsa?” Emotions welled up inside him and tears were streaming down his face. (Tehrirat-e-Mubaraka, pp. 155-156)

100 Years Ago… – A glimpse of Jalsa Salana Qadian 1919

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100 Years Ago… – A glimpse of Jalsa Salana Qadian 1919

Information acquired from Al Fazl, 5,8,12 and 15 January 1920

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This year, prior to the Jalsa days, a heavy spell of rain perturbed the organisers. They faced harsh circumstances and it was assumed that the tough weather conditions may stop many attendees to travel to Qadian for Jalsa. Moreover, the scarcity of means of transport in the Amritsar area, owing to the hustle and bustle of political activists from both camps of the Muslim League and Congress, fuelled worries of the Jalsa management.

Another important factor, which also added to the concern of the organisers in 1919, was that the Jamaat had two annual Jalsas in Qadian. For known reasons, in 1918, conditions were not favorable to organise a Jalsa in Qadian during the month of December [thus Jalsa Salana 1918 was held the following year in early 1919].

Post-World War I, a dearth of everyday commodities was common, but the huge gathering at Jalsa Qadian utterly dumped all assumptions about supplies because visiting Qadian is something out of this world. This spiritual bond of devout members of the Jamaat with the Markaz, Qadian, is evident from day one. Visiting the Markaz does not solely depend on provision of worldly means. So the attendance remained between six to seven thousand this year.

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Hazrat Syed Sarwar Shah Sahibra

This year, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra appointed Hazrat Syed Sarwar Shah Sahibra as the chief-organiser of Jalsa arrangements. He did his utmost along with his team members to handle the unprecedented situation which arose due to the sudden downpour during Jalsa days.

The first day of Jalsa commenced on Friday, 26 December 1919 in Masjid Nur, Qadian where an arena like sitting arrangement was set up with the help of some locally available wooden material. This first session was presided over by Seith Abdullah Allah Din Sahib from Sikandrabad. Recitation of the Holy Quran was presented by Hafiz Ghulam Rasul Sahibra from Wazirabad, which was followed by an Urdu poem by Hakim Ahmad Hussain Sahib from Lyallpur. The first speech was delivered by Hazrat Maulana Ghulam Rasul Sahib Rajekira about prophecies and their manifestation. The interesting speech remained incomplete as the time for Jumuah prayer approached.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered his Friday sermon and led the Jumuah prayer along with the Asr prayer. The next session started under the presidency of Hazrat Chaudhry Nasrullah Sahibra (advocate) from Sialkot.

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Hazrat Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahibra

Hazrat Hafiz Roshan Ali Sahibra began his speech on the truthfulness of the Promised Messiahas which he had been presenting for the last two Jalsas and continued with this vast topic. Hafiz Sahibra spoke eloquently for more than two hours, even though he had been unwell for the past few days. With this, the blessed proceedings of day one came to an end.

The second day of Jalsa, Saturday 27 December was affected by the showers and had to be shifted to the building of High School, which was not sufficient enough. The dire need of an adequate hall was felt desperately to aptly accommodate in a situation like rain etc.

This session was presided over by Hazrat Khan Sahib Zulfiqar Ali Khanra. After the recitation of the Holy Quran, a Punjabi poem was recited by Munshi Qasim Ali Sahib. The first speech was made by Sheikh Abdur Rahman Sahib Misri evaluating between the Jamaat who remained loyal to the institution of Khilafat and the party that left Qadian.

The next half an hour was allotted to the speech of Syed Sarwar Shah Sahibra about the importance of Bai‘at and how to safeguard from sin. But the speaker was so occupied with his Jalsa engagements that he was not able to turn up at the Jalsa Gah and his time was also granted to the previous speaker.

Zuhr and Asr prayers were offered in congregation. At 2 o’clock, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra arrived for his keynote address, but the hall at the [Talim-ul-Islam] High School again proved insufficient for attendees. So, the proceedings were shifted back to the Jalsa Gah at Masjid Nur and the second day’s gathering was set up there. Before his main speech, Huzoorra announced some Nikahs and started his 5-hour long speech. Despite the fact that thick clouds were hovering over the uncovered gathering, this session continued smoothly.

As Huzoorra started delivering his address, it started to drizzle. A big umbrella was placed above him, but Huzoorra refused to be covered and said, “There is some divine wisdom behind this.” And after some moments, the drizzle stopped.

On the third day of Jalsa, the first session started under Chaudhry Abu Al Hashim Khan Sahib from Bengal. A girl of Arab origin recited the Holy Quran in her melodious voice, which was followed by a poem. Then reports of various Jamaat central offices were read out. The allocated time for each administrative centre yet again proved inadequate because widespread activities of those offices were so attention-grabbing that everyone was eager to know some more.

Then an effective appeal for the collection of Chanda was made, which saw its fruit simultaneously during the Jalsa days. With this, the session came to an end for prayers.

After Zuhr and Asr prayers, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra commenced with his four and half hour long speech on a complex and important topic of fate and decree. Huzoor’sra words were so awe-inspiring and captivating that the time of dusk approached and the countryside’s chilly weather started having its effect. Huzoorra thus postponed explaining the remaining key points for the following day.

On 29 December, Huzoorra opened the session by announcing some Nikahs, which was followed by Bai‘at ceremony of some new converts. Afterwards, something unique happened; Huzoorra himself explained the previous day’s speech in Punjabi. This summary was meant for those members of the community who remained indulged in farming and maintaining their cattle houses throughout the year.

Thereafter, Huzoorra continued with the remaining points of his lecture on the topic of fate and decree and spoke for another four and a half hours, dealing with subject.

Subsequently, Mr Sagar Chand (Barrister) came to the stage and briefly shared a rejoinder to the allegations leveled by Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib. After Zuhr and Asr prayers, Huzoorra went to the ladies’ side for his address there. Ladies faced the same series of difficulties in arrangements, braving the odd weather.

The final session of this year’s Jalsa started under Munshi Farzand Ali Sahib’s presidency. During this, in the beginning, Qazi Muhammad Abdullah Bhatti Sahib shared some anecdotes from the tabligh activities being done in England. Next was missionary of Mumbai, Hakim Khalil Ahmad Sahib’s turn to speak about the remarkable works of the Promised Messiahas. The lecturer’s approach to the subject was so forceful that it moved the listeners very much. Later, the session’s president spoke a few words and read out an article by Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahibra and led the congregation in silent prayer, concluding that year’s Jalsa Salana.

Amongst many remarkable features for that year’s Jalsa was a special arrangement for Huzoorra to reach and leave the Jalsa site without any hindrance. Even the Jalsa stage was fenced for the first time so that Huzoorra could deliver his speeches safely. To accommodate for Ahmadis, a timetable was issued for mulaqats. The Jamaat’s literature was specially published and displayed in large quantities.

In his Friday Sermon following Jalsa Salana 1919, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra repeatedly asked members of the Jamaat to remember and follow all the good deeds, which were highlighted in the Jalsa speeches. The Jamaat’s newspapers published almost all speeches, poems and brief accounts of Jalsa proceedings in its later issues. Due to Allah’s immense bounties, the Jalsa was a success.

Ladies participation at 2019 UK Jalsa

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Ladies participation at 2019 UK Jalsa

Lubna Suhail, Secretary Ishaat Lajna Imaillah UK

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What brings more than tens of thousands of Muslim women from different walks of life, different ethnicities, creeds and cultural backgrounds to an open field in leafy Hampshire? The answer is an Islamic Khilafat that preaches a peaceful message of unity and love. 

This Khalifa spreads the message of tolerance and acceptance. The women here feel empowered, motivated by each other to be the best version of themselves. They aspire to be the best mothers, wives, daughters and sisters and all this can be achieved by being a practicing Muslim woman. That is what the love of Khilafat encourages them to be. 

Walking around the temporarily constructed mini city, named Hadeeqatul Mahdi, hidden in the vast greenery with all the amenities anyone would need, women walk and talk freely in their colourful and beautiful traditional clothing.

But they are not here to socialise, dress up and show off their clothes and jewellery. They are here for a higher purpose – to spiritually rejuvenate themselves and pledge allegiance to this Islamic Khilafat. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, may Allah be his Helper, advised the ladies attending that modesty is the best adornment for a Muslim woman and this is the beauty she should be most proud of.

There is no topic that is not touched upon by the Khalifa in his various addresses over the three-day convention. He advises on social and domestic issues that affect family and home-life, to have a happy home and righteous children is what every Muslim woman desires. Huzooraa advised both men and women that this responsibility must be shared by both men and women equally. They both must discharge their duties towards each other and the family as well as towards their faith and Allah.

Only by having the love of Allah at the forefront of their thoughts, would they have a successful home and work life and protect the world from destroying itself morally. His message to all was that your actions should be such that they give precedence to your faith over any materialistic worldly attractions.  

Carrying the responsibility of the moral upbringing of her children, a mother feels confident entering the Jalsa site. She knows her and her children’s every need will be catered for. With a toddler in the pram and two bags full of spare clothing, food and snacks, it is exhausting walking from the car park into the women’s area and through security. However, energy levels boost back up when she is inside. The pushchair gets parked in the allocated marquee, a ticket gets issued, making collection more convenient, and then it is straight to the mother and child area. There are volunteers always around to help carry or look after your belongings, with a creche for the children.

Many people question the separation of men and women at Jalsa, this is because Muslim women observe purdah, which is dressing modestly and discouraging the free mixing of men and women.

We hear a great deal at present in the media, and society in general that women do not feel the same sense of security and safety that men do. Women are more likely to be victims of a whole variety of crimes in the work place and home. All this makes the Jalsa Salana a unique and safe experience, where a woman enters an environment, free to enjoy, flourish, be educated, meet old friends and new, and let her children play independently. She enters an environment where she has no worries of being judged or made to feel in some ways inadequate. Where you can see her serving in every walk of life; from recording for a television channel to cleaning the toilets; from serving food to 18,000 women and children to cleaning the arena; from presiding over sessions to taking care of the guests’ food, drink and bedding; from running a big bazaar to providing milk for babies.

Ladies have the freedom to be business entrepreneurs at the Jalsa bazaar, given an opportunity to sell and promote their businesses. The Ladies bazaar is solely controlled by women, with a variety of food and drink, clothes and toys. The tuck shop is open for children throughout the day. Attendees can choose between hot tea and cold beverages, which are free for all.

Many young educated women are able to use their skills and profession to good use at the Jalsa. Doctors and pharmacists volunteer in the First Aid department. Women who have studied media can volunteer with the live television channel Muslim Television Ahmadiyya International and the Voice of Islam Radio. You will find professionals from all walks of life, but here, they love to be identified as Ahmadi women serving for humanity. You can never enrich or serve people with your money alone, with Jalsa an incredible opportunity to help others by volunteering one’s time, effort and skills.

The Jalsa is known for its amazing food, loved by everyone, with six different food marquees catering for all needs – children, elderly, international guests, the disabled, with all dietary requirements catered for. Food is available 24 hours a day for those who stay at the site.

In most public spaces, finding clean toilets is a struggle. Jalsa has many clean toilets, manned by volunteers all day, with organised lines entering and exiting.

There is a fantastic facility for children and adults with special needs and disabilities. The SEND marquee is designed to be comfortable, with volunteers providing assistance with love and care. This year, a unique feature, only provided on the women’s side, were SEND cards. These were issued for those who wished to use them, allowing them to have priority access to food, toilets and all other facilities available at Jalsa.

Every woman takes something different away from the Jalsa Salana, with the numerous speeches that guide, advise and educate. But every woman leaves feeling more connected to her Creator and empowered to reach her full potential through the aspiring words of the Khalifa of the time. 

9-15 August

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9-15 August

9 August 1957: The foundation stone of the central Ahmadiyya mosque in Kampala, Uganda was laid. The message of Ahmadiyyat reached this oil-producing African country in the 1930s. This mosque has six minarets and can accommodate 9,000 worshippers. The mosque’s construction added a unique attractiveness to the city’s landscape.

10 August 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra departed from Damascus after blessing this historic capital city with his presence for many days. Huzoorra took the route of Beirut to reach Haifa. From Haifa, Huzoor’sra entourage headed towards Acre so they could acquire firsthand knowledge of this place, which is considered the holiest city and headquarters of the Bahai faith.

Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II during his tour of Europe Holland1955

11 August 1955: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in London and in the very final hours of his stay, a new convert of Swiss origin, Mr Studer, accepted Ahmadiyyat at his blessed hand. Mr Studer had the opportunity to serve Huzoorra in the capacity of a chauffeur and the close company of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra compelled him to convert.

12 August 1905: Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin’sra son, Abdul Qayum passed away in infancy. Abdul Qayum had been suffering from measles for approximately a month. Huzoorra held the body of his son in his arms for a while and his eyes welled up with tears. Huzoorra kissed the boy’s forehead, following the sacred example of the Holy Prophet of Islam, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

13 August 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra entourage departed for the second leg of their journey, when they boarded their ship from Port Said, an Egyptian city at the northern end of the Suez Canal located on the Mediterranean Sea.

13 August 1961: The Mubarak Mosque in Montagne Blanche, Mauritius was inaugurated on this day. It was a historic day for the local Jamaat for many reasons, one being that there was already a small mosque built some two decades back on this island, under the supervision of missionary Maulana Fazl Ilahi Bashir Sahib. But sadly, a strong typhoon caused extensive damage to this structure.

Masjid Mubaruck Montagne Blanche Mauritius

The devout local Ahmadis planned to rebuild this house of God once again with their limited resources. This beautiful, eye-catching mosque now built with cement and concrete blocks was renovated mostly through rigorous and tireless waqar-e-amal.

13 or 14 August 1940: An entire Ahmadi family in Ambala was martyred on this day. This cruel and barbaric act was committed against Hazrat Haji Mian Miran Bakhshra, his wife and toddler. This companion of the Promised Messiahas had an unyielding passion to preach the message of Jamaat to the locals since he entered the Jamaat in 1904. Moreover, his business of hide and leather flourished abundantly, which created a strong sense of envy to his rivals. It is reported that a party of attackers, at the behest of local clerics, stormed into his home at around midnight and stabbed him multiple times. Hazrat Miran Bakhsh Sahibra succumbed to his fatal injuries. His wife rushed to the house, crying for help, but she was overpowered by the terrorists and she too lost her life along with her very young daughter. These noble martyrs were buried locally.

Review of Jalsa Salana Germany 2019

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Review of Jalsa Salana Germany 2019

Friday Sermon

Review of Jalsa Salana Germany 2019

12 July 2019

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After reciting the Tashahhud, Ta‘awuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated: 

By the sheer grace and blessings of Allah the Almighty, a few days ago, Jalsa Salana [the annual convention] of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Germany concluded. By the grace of Allah the Almighty, as I announced on the final day, the attendance this year reached above 40,000. All this progress that we observe year-on-year is solely and entirely due to Allah’s grace, Who always blesses us far more than our efforts and endeavours.

Thus, whilst expressing our gratitude to Allah the Almighty, we should endeavour to increase our efforts so that these blessings and favours of Allah the Almighty continue to increase. The hundreds of non-Ahmadi and nonMuslim guests have mentioned that they had experienced an extraordinary atmosphere which had a profound effect upon them. Our own members also express this feeling. However, the manner in which the volunteers perform their duties, including young boys and girls, and moreover the fact that people stay together in such large numbers without any quarrelling or disruption, is a remarkable and unique experience for those from outside the Jamaat. Some have even stated that this was a miracle.

Thus, in addition to being a source of our own tarbiyat [moral training], our Jalsa is also a great source of tabligh [propagating the message of Islam]. Thus, this demands from us that we continue to express our gratitude to God Almighty.

This atmosphere should not be temporary, rather every moment of our lives should exhibit the beautiful teachings of Islam through every action of ours and we should continuously fulfil the purpose of entering into the Bai‘at of the Promised Messiahas.

Generally, I mention the sentiments and views expressed by the guests and some other matters related to Jalsa and I shall present some of those impressions today as well. However, I would firstly like to thank all the workers, both men and women, who worked continuously day and night, in order to try and make the arrangements of the Jalsa successful in every respect and who, even at this very moment, are working there as the windup operation is continuing.

It is observed here [in the UK] as well as in the larger and organised Jamaats around the world, in which the administrative system is well-established, that the volunteers dedicate every moment of their time solely for the arrangements of Jalsa and for the hospitality of the guests of the Promised Messiahas, while ignoring their personal interests. By the Grace of God Almighty, the Jamaat in Germany is also exceedingly sincere and loyal, to the extent that in terms of certain aspects of sacrifices, it surpasses many other Jamaats. If there are any shortcomings, then it is usually due to the way in which the office-bearers carry out their duty or the manner in which they obtain the work from the volunteers. However, by the grace of Allah the Almighty, the members of the Jamaat are always willing to sacrifice their life, time and wealth. May Allah the Almighty continue to increase them in their sincerity and loyalty. 

This time, due to an increase in the attendees, the organisers, as well as Amir Sahib, have realised that it is time that they ought to have a large Jalsa Gah [a site for the annual convention] of their own – although, they recognised this need last year and I have also been reminding them for the past few years – but it seems that Amir Sahib, the national amila and the office-bearers have taken this matter more seriously this year.

This time, they faced some difficulties with regard to the parking due to which there were some traffic issues. Furthermore, people faced difficulties while entering the Jalsa Gah in order to take part in the proceedings. Understandably, when there is such a vast number of attendees, such situations can arise if there is even the slightest of shortcomings in the arrangements and thus, given the circumstances, this naturally led to some disruption.

Those people who could not enter the hall and were being delayed expressed their displeasure. Consequently, those who were on duty in the traffic and parking departments became worried. However, it is by the grace of Allah the Almighty that even under such circumstances, people were able to watch or listen to the speeches and follow the proceedings on their phones via the service provided by MTA.

Therefore, such issues in relation to the Jalsa draw our attention to the need for more expansive arrangements and facilities. Furthermore, we have to fix the dates of Jalsa according to the hirer and we are not free to choose the dates ourselves. This year, they handed over the halls for Jalsa at the last moment. All these matters should draw the attention of the organisers that they ought to obtain their own site where the Jalsa can be held.

Amir Sahib has informed me that he has a seen a site, which he liked and they are trying to acquire it. If this site is suitable for the Jamaat in the eyes of Allah the Almighty, then may He enable them to acquire it and may He facilitate them to purchase it with ease. I am hopeful of this Insha-Allah and upon observing the sincerity, loyalty and the spirit of sacrifice of the German Jamaat, I can say that if any financial sacrifices were to be required, the members of the Jamaat will, God-willing, offer such sacrifices. May Allah the Almighty increase their ability to do so.

As I mentioned on the last day at the Germany Jalsa that this has now also become an international Jalsa. Previously it had been convenient for people of Europe to attend the Germany Jalsa. This time, however, it seems that it was more convenient for other countries to also attend, such as former Soviet states and some African countries, and they were able to acquire the visa more easily. Even from this perspective, it is necessary for Germany to expand the Jalsa Gah [Jalsa hall] and the relevant arrangements as well.

After expressing my gratitude to the workers and mentioning some aspects in relation the Jalsa, I will now present before you some impressions of those who attended the Jalsa, from which it becomes evident that not only the volunteers, but rather every Ahmadi attending the Jalsa serves as a means of silently preaching the message of Islam through their morals and good conduct. During the days of Jalsa, there is an additional programme for non-Ahmadis and non-Muslim guests on Saturday afternoon as well, during which I deliver an address. Hence, I will first mention the impressions of those who took part in this programme. During the remainder of this programme, a tabligh programme or gathering is organised for the guests by the local administration.

This year, as part of the tabligh arrangements, a total of 1,179 external guests attended the Jalsa. The number of German guests was 502 and the number of guests from other European countries totalled 341. Apart from this there were 157 guests from Arab countries, 104 guests from Asia and 75 guests from Africa. Thus, a total of 76 nations were represented.

Mr Hans Oliver was one of the guests, who is a senior partner of a law firm in Frankfurt and is a lawyer. After attending this gathering and listening to my address, he expressed his sentiments by saying:

“The speech of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat was extremely passionate and impressive for me.”

He further writes:

“To identify the impending dangers and the possibility of war in the midst of seemingly peaceful and routinely affairs of daily life, is indeed of great significance. Furthermore, the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat has not only accurately perceived the looming dangers of the future, but along with this is also warning the world. Similarly, the manner in which he connected the issue of immigration to the socio-economic interests of governments was indeed a profound analysis.”

He then says:

“As a lawyer, I wish to mention this aspect to my colleagues and to emphasise the appreciation of this mutual need. The reason for this is that here, in general, people speak of the arrival of refugees in a negative manner. However, they neglect the local interests of the countries and nations that are attached to immigration, which is a matter of great significance.”

Then, Vereena Ludwig Sahiba, who is an IT expert working for the Lufthansa airlines, says:

“Whilst listening to the address, I was constantly thinking that other leaders also deliver speeches and encourage the world to protect itself from the looming dangers.”

She further says:

“Speaking on the subject of establishing world peace is a burning issue for world leaders. However, I have never experienced the effect and power in the words of any other leader as I witnessed in the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. Secondly, there was such an extensive research carried out on this subject, which reveals his heartfelt anguish. One cannot offer such a detailed analysis if they do not possess true heartfelt pain.”

She further says:

“Not only from a religious perspective but also from a socio-economic point of view, he made it evidently clear to world leaders that the peace of the world is intrinsically linked to instilling the fear of God. If we do not rise above our personal interests and take action, then we will be responsible for the catastrophic destruction that will be caused by an atomic war.”

She further says:

“In my view, this message has been delivered with such clarity that if a person does not have any prejudices, it is sufficient enough as a warning to make them shudder. Furthermore, this message should be conveyed to the relevant organisations, as it is necessary to spread this understanding on a global level for the welfare of mankind at large.”

Then, there was a German couple, Mr Klause and Mrs Heide. They stated:

“We were very apprehensive before we came here. Even though we had been familiar with the Jamaat for several years, we had reservations when it came to attending the Jalsa, which were based on the information we heard about Islam and Muslims from the media. Hence, we were extremely nervous coming here today as we were uncertain as to the nature of the people gathered here. However, after arriving, both of us, husband and wife, were so relaxed and we experienced such a friendly atmosphere here that it felt as if we were walking around in our own environment.”

After listening to my speech, the wife said:

“In relation to this, I would like to say that I have personally witnessed the destruction caused by war.” She was referring to the Second World War.

“Furthermore, the catastrophes and the terrifying conditions, which the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat continues to warn mankind of and also the spirit of sympathy and sincerity with which he is cautioning the world has a different impact on individuals such as myself, who has witnessed a world war. Therefore, we are in agreement with every word of this address and wish for the current generation to understand and realise it in good time.”

The husband of this lady further says:

“He [i.e. the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community] has certainly pointed out all the dangers posed today. However, whilst doing so, he neither mentioned anyone’s name, nor did he adopt a manner of speech during his address, which gave the impression that he was inclining towards any particular side. The manner in which he was issuing a warning contained a profound sympathy rather than on personal likes or dislikes. There was not the faintest indication of any personal inclination during his address and this is the very status of a religious leader.”

He further says:

“Following this address, I return with this conviction that the Ahmadiyya Jamaat holds deep sympathy for humanity.”

Then, Mr Nobert Wagner, an immigration lawyer, says:

“Even though I am not attending the Jalsa for the first time and as a lawyer for cases related to Ahmadis, I am aware of most matters.”

He deals with the asylum cases of Ahmadis.

“However, today’s address of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat contained completely new aspects and points for me. Even though I am expressing my feelings, this expression is a form of an immediate response as this very speech contains many important points for my professional needs, which I will deliberate over once I return home.

“The viewpoint presented today by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat in relation to the issue of immigrants and those who leave their homeland will develop a mutual relationship and honour between hosting countries and immigrants. Furthermore, and particularly the manner in which he highlighted the need of German manpower with the support of figures in relation to the elderly and the age of retirement, it will strengthen the self-esteem of the refugees and the respect and honour of immigrants will also increase in the eyes of the hosting institutions. However, I say this once again that this contains a lot of material for myself as well as for those who practice immigration law, which will benefit us.”

Thus, even from worldly perspective, the Jalsa helps people.

Then, a lady named Laila from Switzerland writes:

“I belong to an organisation and we are working toward spreading peace. Today, when I heard this address, I felt peace in every single word of it. In each word, I witnessed tolerance and regard for human dignity. If you combine peace, humanity and tolerance into one place, then you will end up forming a beautiful society.” Then she goes on to say:

“Whatever you say, it is beneficial for us. The most impressive aspect was that after presenting all of the prevailing issues, you offered a solution from religion itself, and said that the solution to all of these issues lies in recognising God Almighty. You have proven that religion is not the problem, but the solution to the problems.”

A German lady said:

“I really liked the fact that his holiness spoke upon current issues. Before him, some politicians also spoke, but there was no substance to their words – they were the usual average things that anyone can say. But this speech was totally distinctive. He spoke on real issues – nuclear war, climate change, immigration. These are the prevailing issues, the solution for which he also presented. Rather than putting constraints on religion, it should be propagated. He also directed the attention towards forming a connection with God.”

Then, she says:

“He explained in very clear words that the wars that are taking place today have no connection at all with religion. He also shed ample light on political affairs, and then went on to say that powerful nations take advantage of weaker ones. Sometimes they are exploited in an apparent way, while at other times it is more subtle, and they are compelled to safeguard the interest of the more powerful nations.”

And so, in this way, she has done a good analysis, especially as a student. This means that people listen carefully and also reflect on what is being said.

Then, there is a Christian Priest of Germany named Andreas Weisbrote, who says:

“I have been greatly impressed by the Jalsa Salana – from the multitude of friendly faces, from this environment of positivity and goodness, and from the great unity and love.”

Furthermore, in relation to my address, he said:

“This speech left me in utter amazement. I was not so aware of the imminence of a nuclear threat. I also think that at this time, we can only progress if we give due attention to collective priorities, peace and when we search altogether for peace. For
this purpose, we require a strong society where we establish an environment of multiple perspectives and tolerance, and one of interfaith dialogue, which is an integral part of this as well.”

These were just a handful of examples, which I selected from numerous expressions. Now, I shall also present some general impressions of the Jalsa.

A Macedonian delegation had come, comprising of 70 people. Among them were also eight journalists. Two were representing the regional news groups while the remaining six belonged to national news agencies or other media groups. Aside from recording the actual proceedings of Jalsa, they also took some interview people and also took my interview as well. Apart from the journalists, there were also 15 Christian friends in this delegation, 23 Non-Ahmadi Muslims and 24 Ahmadi Muslims. Of the non-Ahmadi guests from this delegation, five of them, after having seen the Jalsa and its programme, and who were already being preached to from before, joined the Jamaat.

A Macedonian lady named Aleksandra Doneva was attending for the first time. Her expression was truly unique; very poetic and philosophical. Thus, I kept this in order to share. She says:

“What is a home without its inhabitants? Can there be a concept of humanity without morals? The reality of humankind cannot exist without religion and beliefs. After all, what is humanity at all without love? The purification of man’s soul can only be had when he lives in peace and spreads peace as well. Similarly, the purification of the soul lies also in tolerance and mutual respect and dignity. It is necessary for man that he believes in God, and strives to build a better future on Earth. This is a method by which we can safeguard mankind, and the Ahmadiyya Community is doing all of these things. Ahmadis spread peace, teach peace, and are establishing morals and goodness so that all of mankind also joins in all these things. Ahmadiyyat is unifying all people in one place and is kindling the light of worship in them. Ahmadiyyat desires that people should increase their spirituality and that unity should be established among them, and that they become close to God. This year at Jalsa, I saw a multitude of good people with smiling faces who were affording us a great deal of respect. They truly believe that with good morals, a good life can be lived.”

She goes on to say:

“I, along with expressing my sentiments of gratitude, bear witness that I saw such people whose conviction in God and faith in Him is very strong. I am hopeful that you will continue with these good works, and you will increase your love and attention in this regard. Then shall a time come that people will realise the true purpose and value of life.”

This is the impression of a person who is not from the community. And this impression should bring us to the point where we truly recognise the purpose of our lives, and also strive to achieve this purpose as well.

Among the Macedonian delegation was also a television journalist, Zoranco Zorinski Sahib, who says:

“I am attending this Jalsa for the second time, and it is a great honour for me. The organisation of the Jalsa was extraordinary and in my opinion, the organisational structure of the Jalsa was even better this time than last year.”

Then he says, “I greatly enjoyed your address. Every word of it was a lesson for humankind. This is an international message – ‘Love for all, hatred for none.’”

Then he says, “To believe in God and in helping all people is a thing that will remove all conflict from between people.”

He further states, “Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya teaches people very positive things.”

Then, regarding the Press Conference with different journalists that took place with me, he writes, “The answers he gave were expressive of the fundamentals of human dignity and respect.”

He says, “I am also a journalist and will try to get an interview with you at some time.”

Then he goes on to say, “[His holiness] gives good advice. I hope that more people will accept Ahmadiyyat and will work toward the betterment of humankind.”

The world can see that Islam will progress in the world through Ahmadiyyat.

Then, a man named Vojomanevski Sahib states:

“I have deeply pondered over the message of Ahmadiyyat and understood it with depth. As a journalist I have analysed those aspects of faith which overlap among different religions. The foundation of religion is based upon love for God and for humankind. This is a message which is direly needed in today’s day and age. The solution to many of those problems which are greatly agitating the world lies in this love. Today, a great predicament in Europe is the upsurge of right-winged politicians, the solution for which is only possible through dialogue between the various faiths, cultures and civilisations. If we search for God, then we will come to learn that there is not that much of a difference between us.”

Then he says, “The more distanced we become from God, the more distant we shall become from mankind and people in general. The age of materialism is bringing an end to spiritual livelihood and relationships between people. This is why we must protect our families and friends and all our relationships and connections.”

Then, a man named Jani Redjepov sahib states, “I have participated in the Jalsa with my family. The Jalsa was amazing and proved to be a marvellous experience.”

Then he says:

“When I first heard of the message of Ahmadiyyat in Macedonia, I realised that the work of Ahmadiyyat is giving people positive guidance. First, my family accepted this message, and then they guided me. I am grateful to you for facilitating the means for us to partake in the Jalsa Salana.”

Then there is a lady named Tanja Sahiba, who says:

“This is the first time I have participated in the Jalsa. Here, everything was new for me, and it was excellent. All of the organisational structures put in place were excellent. Particularly the manner in which the volunteers interacted was so
friendly. They were conducting themselves with smiling faces and working with an excellent conduct.”

Then, a university student from Bulgaria says:

“The people were very empathetic, which is why I am here now. I was watching the Bai‘at ceremony as an observer. I do not have the words to express my emotions. For people to collect in this manner is an astonishing and grand thing.”

A delegation of 49 people came from Bulgaria. Among them were 15 Ahmadis and 34 non-Ahmadi and Christian guests. A Christian woman named Yulia Sahiba, who was part of the delegation, said:

“I am very emotional just to think that I am also participating with thousands of people in the Jalsa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Despite being Christian, I really enjoyed the address (she is speaking about my address). Your prayers really touched the heart and I really enjoyed the recitation of the Holy Quran and its translation. One thing worth mentioning is that you handed the awards to the students yourself.”

She then prayed that may God Almighty accept all our supplications. A woman from the Bulgarian delegation, Krasrmira Sahiba says:

“This is my third opportunity to attend the Jalsa in Germany and each year I learn something new. As a physiotherapist and psychologist, I listen intently to the speeches. Through the teachings of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community presented in the speeches, I can find the best solutions to the issues of my patients and I gather valuable advice for myself.”

Ivanka Sahiba, a Christian guest from the Bulgarian delegation, says:

“This is the first time I have had the chance to attend the Jalsa in Germany. To see all of this really left me astounded, especially the children who would come and serve us water in cups.”

Then another guest named Galia Sahiba said:

“I attended all three days of the Germany Jalsa. I am extremely impressed with the hospitality and organisation. I am also very impressed by the courteous and pious people I had the chance to meet during the Jalsa.”

A delegation from Hungary attended this year among whom were 8 guests and 11 Ahmadis. Szavavince Sahib, who is from the Romani people said:

“We set up an organisation for the success, betterment and legal support of our people, which comprises of over 16,000 members.”

This is the first time he attended the Jalsa. He further says, “Meeting new people is part and parcel of my job. I have attended these functions and events, be they Jewish, Muslim or Christian programmes. In my entire life, I have never witnessed such love, mutual respect and dignity, equality and brotherhood as I have witnessed here, nor have I seen this in any other function.”

He thanked the Jamaat for granting him the opportunity to come and see for himself the practical implementation of “Love for all, hatred for none”. He also said that this was a lifetime experience for him which cannot be forgotten, and that he is in a very emotional state after attending the Jalsa. He then said that he had been speaking in support of the Muslim migrants in his country who are facing difficulties and hatred, but now he will speak up even more and stand up for them more resolutely, knowing that the way the media is portraying the Muslims is completely false.”

Then there is Wafaa Hasan Shermani Sahiba of Yemen, who migrated with her mother and son to Hungary. She says that she attended the Jalsa last year as well as this year. She mentions that last year when she went to the ladies’ side, she felt very comfortable. Hence, this time she sat in the ladies’ side and listened to the entire program and there was a special spiritual and emotional atmosphere. There was a guest by the name of Besim Gjozi Sahib, who took the oath of allegiance on the final day and joined the Jamaat. He said, “I am so grateful to God Almighty for this.” Another guest, Sinan Breshanaj Sahib states that the reason why he joined the Jamaat was that a few years ago, he met me and this had a profound impact upon him and as a result, he began attending the Jalsa in Germany every year. There is an Ahmadi, Bekim Bici Sahib, who says:

“I performed the Bai‘at in 2004. I achieved great success in my journalism degree as a result of which I received a medal at the Jalsa Salana in 2016. Thereafter, I began working as a journalist for online newspapers outlets in Albania. Last year when I requested to take leave to attend the Jalsa, it was not granted. I therefore resigned because I could not miss the Jalsa. The very same day, God Almighty granted me work in another media outlet, which I accepted on the condition that I would begin work after attending the Jalsa in Germany.”

He further says:

“Similarly, this year also, I had only been working for only four months in an online news company, and according to the company policy, there was no permission to take holidays before six months of working there. Despite this, I sought permission to attend the Jalsa, which was not granted. Subsequently I resigned from that company and on the same day, three other companies offered me a job. From among them, I agreed to work on the condition that I begin work after attending the Jalsa Salana in Germany. Thus, this condition of mine was accepted.”

This is the true example of giving precedence to faith over worldly pursuits, which those who have recently accepted Ahmadiyyat are also demonstrating. An Ahmadi friend, Gezimmuzhaqi Sahib, who used to belong to an atheist society and got in contact with the Jamaat a few years ago. He found the proofs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in support of religion and Islam in particular to be very logical and pleasing. Previously, he was completely against religion due to hearing stories of the Maulvis [religious clerics]. He did the Bai‘at a few years ago and is now steadily increasing in observing Islamic customs.

He says:

“The Jalsa Salana is very special to me. As always, the organisation and hospitality were of the highest level. The address in the Ladies Jalsa Gah and the concluding address really impressed me and we, men, must always bear this message in mind.”

Then there was an Albanian guest called Ilir Cylandji, who lives in Germany.

He says:

“The Jalsa Salana is a wonderful spiritual gathering for all Ahmadi Muslims, in which not only members of the Jamaat attend, but also a large number of guests from different countries.”

On the one hand, he learnt about the fundamental teachings of Islam through his attendance at the Jalsa, and on the other hand, he was able to witness and experience the practical example of these beautiful teachings through the intuition of Khilafat established in the Jamaat.

He says:

“During these three days, there are only [religious] sittings in the men’s and women’s Jalsa halls and the beautiful teachings of Islam are presented to tackle the changes and challenges in this day and age. As an Ahmadi Muslim, I wait very eagerly for this spiritual gathering because one can witness the true spirit of brotherhood, which is indescribable. Every single member of the Jamaat displays pure and sincere love. When attending this Jalsa it feels as if I am in paradise and the most fortunate man in the world, and I wait very keenly for the Jalsa to take place next year.”

There was a delegation of 85 people from Georgia. This was the largest delegation from former Soviet state to attend.

Besso Sahib, Chairman of a welfare organisation, says:

“I had the opportunity to speak to many Ahmadi members and whilst speaking to them, I was trying to asses just how much this Jamaat tolerant of other faiths. With this in mind, I spoke to two Ahmadis and during the conversation, all of a sudden, I said I am not a Muslim, but a Christian. I thought that they would change their attitude completely once they found out, but I was so amazed to see the way they continued to display their good morals and good manners, without showing any kind of prejudice.”

Thus, in this manner also, people try to put us to the test. Nanuka Sahiba, a religious studies student from the Georgian delegation also attended. She expressed her sentiments during the Bai‘at ceremony saying, “The Bai‘at ceremony was very emotional. I was able to witness scenes of religious unity and just how people of different ethnicities and backgrounds can live in peace with one another. I am studying religious studies, this is the first time I am attending the Jalsa and I am certain that this Jalsa is the best way to attain peace.”

Then there was a lady named Nana Kurdiani Sahiba, she says, “I am neither a Muslim nor a Christian, but after attending this Jalsa, I find myself more inclined towards Islam. I feel compelled to make a decision regarding my faith.”

Georgio Sahib, a university student from Georgia and the nephew of an Imam, says, “I am a Muslim by name only, but after attending the Jalsa and witnessing the love of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, I shall continue researching into the Jamaat.”

A delegation also came from Kosovo, comprising of 45 individuals. 30 of them were Ahmadis and 15 were non-Ahmadi guests. A friend named Mr Shaip Zeqiraji Sahib attended the Jalsa for the second time.

He says:

“I was very pleased when I was told to come and attend the Jalsa, but I was in a dilemma in terms of travel expenditure. However, I had a keen desire to meet the Caliph and attend the Jalsa, which is why I sold my cattle to raise funds to travel and attend the Jalsa.”

This is another example how people make great efforts and sacrifices to attend the Jalsa after accepting Ahmadiyyat. These are similar to examples of people in the past which they are acting upon. One of the members of a delegation from Kosovo was Mr Skender Asllani Sahib, who teaches Albanian language and literature. He also had the opportunity to do the Bai‘at this year.

He said, “Despite carefully observing everything, I could not find any flaws in the arrangements of the Jalsa and the speeches delivered were of a very high standard.”

He also that he was very impressed by my speech as well. He further stated, “Performing the Bai‘at indeed is a reward which we all should truly cherish because in the current conditions of the world, the key to our success lies in uniting under one hand.” Three ladies from Malta attended the Jalsa and were in the ladies’ Jalsa hall.

They said:

“We were very well looked after and were always asked if there was anything we required. The atmosphere in the ladies’ marquee was like one family. Even though we were meeting the people there for the first time, however it felt as if we all knew each other from decades ago.”

They further stated:

“We had the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of both halls and felt much more comfortable in the ladies’ side. Thus, we were able to truly understand the wisdom and philosophy of the Islamic teachings in relation to making separate arrangements for men and women. Moreover, based on our personal experience, we can say that the teachings of Islam are filled with deep wisdom. Women feel much more comfortable and content with having their own separate arrangements which they manage themselves, and thus providing them with the opportunities to demonstrate their skills and talents.”

Therefore, even the non-Muslims now acknowledge the importance of segregation between men and women and making separate arrangements for them. Therefore, those young girls who sometimes question why men and women are not together and that there is no freedom, should ponder over this.

Another lady who was a guest from Malta and recently married, said:

“I was greatly impressed by your address which you delivered to the ladies. You drew the attention of both the husband and the wife on fulfilling the rights and responsibilities towards one another. Various issues always arise in households, however your guidance in this regard shall always prove to be beneficial.”

She further stated:

“You spoke about the Islamic teaching in relation to upholding one’s chastity and purity before marriage and this was full of great wisdom and extremely comprehensive. This is vitally important. You also guided us on purifying ourselves, spiritually and physically, and also towards adopting righteousness. If I ever have the opportunity to attend the Jalsa again, I will spend all my time in the ladies’ hall because the atmosphere that I experienced there was filled with faith and spirituality.”

A guest from Kirgizstan said:

“I am filled with extraordinary emotions after having attended the Jalsa. Prior to accepting Ahmadiyyat, I never emotionally cried except for when I was in Qadian and here in Germany. I felt as if the condition of my heart had completely changed and had become softer. Every time a person performs the Bai‘at, they increase in their faith. Before this, I was a maulvi [Muslim cleric] but when I read the literature of the Ahmadiyya Community, I developed a true understanding of the concept of the Dajjal and the advent of the Promised Messiahas which has been mentioned in the Holy Quran. During the course of the Bai‘at, I felt as if cold water was being poured over me and now I have become a true Muslim.”

A guest from Tajikistan, Abdussator, said:

“I had heard that Ahmadis are not Muslims and consider it permissible to drink alcohol. Prior to attending the Jalsa, I visited the Ahmadiyya mosque, Baitul-Subhan”, which is in Germany, “and I offered my prayers there. I realised that in fact Ahmadis are also Muslims and believe in the five pillars of Islam. After having attended the Jalsa, I learnt that Ahmadis believe in the Imam Mahdi and certainly do not drink alcohol and in fact adhere to all the Quranic injunctions. Having attended the Jalsa, I have learnt a lot about the Ahmadiyya Community and I consider you to be Muslims. You share the same pillars and articles of faith as other Muslims. After Hajj, this is the second time I have witnessed so many Muslims come together.”

A delegation came from Lithuania consisting of 58 people, of which 46 were non-Ahmadi guests and the other 12 were Ahmadis.

Expressing his sentiments, Petras Janulionis said:

“I did not have a very good view on Islam prior to attending the Jalsa. However, after having attended the Jalsa, I now have many positive sentiments about Islam. From the Jalsa I learnt that Muslims very firmly adhere to their beliefs, in fact in comparison to Christians, they are much more resolute.”

Another guest from Lithuania, Manefa Sahiba, stated, “Prior to attending the Jalsa, I was very confused about Islam because some Muslims have an extremely fiery temperament and show complete intolerance towards other faiths. However, after having attended the Jalsa, I learnt that Ahmadi Muslims respect the views and faith of other people and seek to propagate peace and love among the whole of mankind.”

Another guest from Lithuania was a CEO of a law firm, Sarunas Sahib.

He states, “The Jalsa Salana is an extremely important event as one is able to learn about the peaceful teachings of Islam and completely dispels the misconceptions that surround it.”

A member from Syria, who did the Bai‘at in January 2019, describes his account of how he accepted Ahmadiyyat.

He states:

“My father did the Bai‘at in 2008 in Syria and one of my brothers also did the Bai‘at. I have previously attended the Jalsa on three occasions, however I would be perplexed and would even find it humorous when I would see people emotionally crying. I continued to oppose Ahmadiyyat and did not do the Bai‘at. However, I prayed to God Almighty that if the Jamaat was true, then God Almighty would guide me Himself. Thereafter, I saw in a dream that we are all sitting waiting for a mulaqat [an audience with Huzoor-e-Anwar] and I am sat in the front row. We were all filled with joy and when I saw Huzoor, I uncontrollably began to cry. Huzoor then called me towards himself and said in a very loving manner, ‘Come close and sit here.’ After that I woke up and was content for doing the Bai‘at and later did the Bai‘at as well.”

He also related this account to me as well and was overcome with emotion during the mulaqat and whenever I would look towards him, he would become extremely emotional.

Another guest from Belgium was a young man, Lokh Balin Sahib.

He states:

“I did the Bai‘at a few months ago and I am attending the Jalsa for the first time. I am astounded after having attended the Jalsa; the beautiful atmosphere of brotherhood which I had only heard about before, I was now able to witness it for myself during the Jalsa. I am extremely fortunate that I have had the opportunity to be part of such a spiritual atmosphere.”

Another guest who came from Senegal who is a commissioner in his area, mentioned about his mulaqat with me.

He said:

“I was extremely happy after having met you and was greatly impressed by your address in which you spoke about love and the unity of God Almighty. If I had not attended the Jalsa and met you, it would have left a very big void in my life. Today, I feel as if I have attained the mission of my life.”

He had also brought a small model ship with him which he had in his lap. When I asked him about it, he said:

“We have brought this as a gift for you. This is a ship that represents peace. This is a ship that represents the motto, ‘Love for all, hatred for none.’ Whosoever boards this ship shall be granted peace and this is the ship of Ahmadiyyat. Another meaning for gifting this ship was that our livelihood is dependent upon this,” as there is a lot of fishermen there, “therefore please pray for our country.”

Another guest who came with him was a director for their department of health. He thanked me for the hospital we built there. He also said that he was able to witness various aspects of Islam by coming to the Jalsa. He further said: “I have travelled to many countries in the world and have travelled to the USA and Europe as well. I have attended many religious and political events, however I have never witnessed such an organisation and representation of the true image of Islam before. I have never witnessed such a level of obedience as I have done here and nor have I witnessed such love for Khilafat before. I can clearly say that there is no political or religious leader in the world who is loved more by his people than the Khalifa, and I testify to this truth.”

This was Dr Mordiaw Sahib who further says:

“We accept this truth with all our hearts which we have witnessed here. This is something that cannot be denied and from today onward, we and our hearts are with you. We have truly felt what we have heard and witnessed here and will strive to adhere to it.”

A delegation from Bosnia also attended the Jalsa which consisted of 74 members.

Yasmin Spahich Sahib, who is the president of an NGO, said:

“Your love for Islam and the founder of Islam and your efforts to spread love is evident from your words. The guidance given in light of the Holy Prophet’ssa pure life was penetrating into my heart and indeed the Holy Prophetsa practically lived his life in this very manner. I pray to God Almighty that may the next Jalsa be even better than this and may it become the means of strengthening and uniting the followers of the Holy Prophetsa.”

Another guest, Emina Chaoshevich Sahiba, said, “After coming to the Jalsa, I have realised that the atmosphere of the Jalsa has such a powerful impact that it can revive the soul of one who is spiritually dead.”

Another guest, Elma Krehmiche Sahib, states:

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Ahmadiyya Community for inviting me to this great Jalsa. The hospitality and all the various arrangements of the Jalsa have extraordinarily impressed me. In particular, I have spent the weekend amongst such people who were constantly smiling.”

The Bai‘at ceremony also took place in which 37 people with the representation from 16 different countries had the opportunity to do the Bai‘at. These included Albania, Serbia, Holland, Germany, Chechnya, Romania, Kosovo, Belgium, Syria, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Lebanon, Senegal, Ghana, The Gambia and Guinea Conakry. Another guest was Mr Labinot, who is a principal of a high school in Kosovo. He states: “The Jalsa had a very emotional impact upon me. In particular, I was greatly impressed when you said to everyone to sit down and the huge crowd of people immediately sat down – one cannot witness such an example anywhere in the world. After having attended the Jalsa, I say that the Jalsa should not only be for three days but in fact should last for thirty days. I did not have any intention to take part in the Bai‘at, however I was overcome with such emotions during the course of the Bai‘at that my hand automatically went up and I began to repeat the words of the Bai‘at. However, I did not just superficially perform the Bai‘at, in fact, I truly took part in the Bai‘at.”

A guest from Azerbaijan, Aghasaf Sahib, states:

“I had never imagined that I would scale such spiritual heights. When Murabbi Mahmood Sahib initially began to give me information about the Jamaat and its beliefs, I perceived it to be very artificial and untrue. Hence, I immediately rejected it when I heard about it. However, little did I know that the power of the truth would quickly attract me towards it. Indeed, the truthfulness of the Jamaat and the arguments it put forth are irrefutable. By coming to the Jalsa, I was able to witness these sights in reality which I would previously only see through videos. I had the opportunity to meet so many people during the Jalsa and would sense the same level of joy from everyone which proved that in reality this is one community. God Almighty also granted me the opportunity to do the Bai‘at at your hands. When I was informed for the first time that I would perform the Bai‘at at the hands of the Khalifa, I did not believe it. I asked four or five times if I will be able to perform the Bai‘at by placing my hand on the hands of the Khalifa?”

He further says:

“My tears began to flow and I became worried because I was not worthy. I
then began to constantly recite Durood Sharif [sending salutations on the Holy Prophetsa] and istighfar [seeking repentance from God Almighty] until the Bai‘at, I was unable to eat or do anything. Alhamdolillah [all praise belongs to God] that as the time for the Bai‘at approached, God Almighty granted me such strength from the spiritual atmosphere, that straight after the Bai‘at I fell into sajda [prostration] in gratitude to that Being, Who enabled this lowly one with many faults to perform the Bai‘at at your hands.

After the Jalsa, I learnt that there would be another opportunity to meet with Huzooraa. I spent all day thinking of many questions, but as soon as the meeting began I forgot all of them except the most important one, which was how can one maintain their spirituality when one returns back home? To this, Huzooraa replied that one ought to constantly recite:

اهدنا الصراط المستقيم

[Guide us in the right path]

And

صراط الذين انعمت عليهم

[The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings]

As well as reciting istighfar.”

He then says, “I am leaving this Jalsa with the firm pledge that until the next Jalsa, I will act on this guidance. Then, when I return the following year, I will affirm that I abided by this advice.”

May God Almighty increase him in his loyalty and sincerity.

A guest attending the Jalsa for the first time from the Kosovan delegation stated:

“I am unable to put my feelings and emotions into words. In all my life, I have wished to meet someone who cares and worries about the world and having met
him, my worries fear seem to fade away. My being able to attend this Jalsa was only due to blessings of God and during the Bai‘at ceremony, I felt a nearness to God.”

Pellumb Sahib from Albania says:

“I pledged allegiance at your hands and had the good fortune of entering the community. I am extremely grateful to God Almighty for giving me the opportunity to accept Ahmadiyyat.”

He further states, “Just one year ago I was without faith; God Almighty bestowed the treasure of faith upon me. I was born and raised in a nonreligious family, however having attended the Jalsa Salana and meeting with you, God Almighty brought faith into my life.”

Dr Muhammad Mahmud Sahib writes:

“When two years ago I attended the Jalsa for the first time I found it somewhat strange and novel the idea that Ahmadis believe that the Mahdi and Messiah has appeared and we [i.e. non-Ahmadi Muslims] were completely oblivious to this fact. Many questions arose in my mind as we had always learned and been taught that the Mahdi would be an Arab and his name would be Muhammad, son of Abdullah. Is this a religious or political movement? Many such questions gripped my mind. In order to try and find answers to these questions, I again attended the following year and had many discussions on various topics with Ahmadi brothers. Even after Jalsa, I was in contact with Ahmadis and over time I found the answers to all my questions. I became convinced that Ahmadis hold all the traits of a true Muslim. Moved by the love and affection of the Jamaat, I decided to pledge allegiance.”

He further writes:

“This love that is found amongst members of the community, had God not sown this seed, this love could never have been born. It is God’s grace that I had the opportunity to pledge allegiance at the hand of the Khalifa. It is difficult to express the feelings that I had when I was repeating the words of the pledge. I am fortunate to pledge allegiance at the hand of the Khalifa. Even if the Bai‘at proceedings had lasted for five hours, I would have not been bored or noticed the passing of time.”

A guest from Kosovo attending for the first time and along with five members of his family had the opportunity of doing the Bai‘at.

He writes, “Initially I was anxious of how the Bai‘at ceremony would unfold and found myself trembling, however after the ceremony, I was calm and felt at ease.”

Kamal Alwan Sahib from Lebanon says:

“I used to own a restaurant, where an Ahmadi friend, Muhammad Shahada, used to visit frequently. One day he said to me, ‘I want to tell you something, the Imam Mahdi has come and has already passed away.’ After he left, I thought to myself, who was this man he was referring to as the Imam Mahdi. Sometime after this, I met the Ahmadi friend again and he said again that the Imam Mahdi had appeared. One day he explained certain concepts including the Dajjal [the Antichrist] and the death of Jesusas. These were extraordinary findings and they became embedded in my heart. These feelings drove me to gain more knowledge about the community. The Ahmadi friend invited me to attend the Jalsa, which I gladly accepted.”

Kamal Alwan Sahib further states:

“For me, the first evidence of the truthfulness of the community was just how well such a vast number of people were looked after. During the Jalsa, a friend of mine informed me that he [referring to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa] was the Caliph of the Muslims. I then asked numerous question to many Ahmadis and they replied with great affection. My heart started to become content with the truth of Ahmadiyyat. I thought to myself, one never knows if one will live to see the next year, so I should pledge allegiance here and now and thus, did so.

In addition, I saw two dreams which reinforced my belief in the truthfulness of the community. With the grace of God Almighty, one of my sons has also pledged allegiance and I yearn to see my other children also accept Ahmadiyyat. Today I watch with great interest the Al-Hiwar Al-Mubashir [Arabic television programme on MTA] and Friday Sermons. As far as I am concerned, the ten conditions of Bai‘at are not just a few conditions but in fact, are a way of life as ordained by God Almighty. Before joining the community, I would often pray that God would give me the opportunity of seeing the Imam Mahdi. I have a sense of remorse for all the time I spent outside the community. For this reason, I have a heartfelt respect for every Ahmadi because they are serving the religion of the Holy Prophetsa. I now feel less worried about my family and work, rather I worry that I have enough money to spend to support the progress of the community and be able to serve the community. May God Almighty fulfill this wish of mine.”

Fawad sahib states:

“Before being introduced to the community, I would reflect on the grandeur of God Almighty and the ever declining state of the Muslims and when this would improve. When I moved to Germany, I used to see my European Arabs friends and would think, are these the people through whom Islam would flourish in Europe; as mentioned in the Hadith that Islam would spread throughout Europe in the latter days. During this period, I met an Ahmadi friend, Mahir Almani, who started to introduce the [Ahmadiyya] community to me.

In the beginning I was quite opposed to these ideas, however aft er studying the books of the community, I decided to attend the Jalsa. When I saw the Jalsa, I thought how so many people could come together at the hands of one person and also exhibit so much mutual love and affection. During the Tahajjud [pre-dawn voluntary prayer] prayers, I prayed, ‘O Allah! If this community is truthful, grant me the opportunity to pledge allegiance during this Jalsa’ (he is referring to the Jalsa of 2018). During the course of the Jalsa, my heart was content and I pledged allegiance, however my wife refused to take the pledge. I explained that she should read the books of the community and pray to God Almighty for guidance. For three months, my wife prayed for guidance and saw in a dream a large gathering of people and a white pigeon in the middle of them. She asked what this pigeon was, and one of the persons explained that this pigeon was here to spread the message of Islam to the area of Jerusalem. This dream opened my wife’s heart and during this Jalsa of 2019 she took the pledge of allegiance.”

He goes on to say, “I am overjoyed that God Almighty has enabled my entire family to accept the Promised Messiahas and I will now take this message to all my relatives”.

Fatimah Samir Sahiba, a guest from Austria says:

“I took the pledge on 7 July during Jalsa Salana Germany. I request for prayers that may this pledge be blessed and that may I never break my oath by any fault of mine. May God Almighty bring about that reformation in myself that the Promised Messiahas mentioned in the Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam.”

She goes on to say, “My family and I have been Ahmadis since 2011. Although I was an Ahmadi, however I had not fi lled in the Bai‘at forms and considered myself an Ahmadi. I am turning 18 in two months and since childhood had a desire to take the pledge myself. Since 2011, I had kept the forms safe but wanted to present it myself and take the pledge at Huzoor’s hand. And this year, that wish has been fulfilled”.

She now helps in doing outreach with the Arab guests coming to Jalsa. Thus, God is also opening the hearts of the youth.

A Kurdish Girl expressing her sentiments, states; “My mother accepted Ahmadiyyat, but at the time, I was not ready. Now, over the last few months, my heart has opened up to Ahmadiyyat as I have seen the love Ahmadis have for one another and today, having listened to the address of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, all my doubts have disappeared. I also attended last year but did not then feel the emotions that I have now. My mother will be very happy because I know realise how important it is for me to become an Ahmadi. With regard to the Bai‘at ceremony, a lawyer from Georgia who is a non-Ahmadi and lectures in a university states that the ceremony had a profound effect on him and he kept repeating that this was a miracle. He then says that there is great mutual love present within the community and he has observed that there is a smile on the face of all Ahmadis.

For all those who took the pledge, may God Almighty increase them in their sincerity, loyalty, faith and conviction. And may every one of us reap the blessings of the Jalsa and make us the true heirs of the prayers offered by the Promised Messiahas.

With regard to the media coverage of the Germany Jalsa, 13 media outlets covered the Jalsa. There were also reports in the online news outlets of Italy, China and Slovakia. From their estimates, 22.6 million people received the message.

The Review of Religions also produced various content, which will continue for another week and according to their estimates, the news will reach one million people. As mentioned, the coverage through the social media of The Review of Religions will continue.

Through MTA Africa, various programmes of the Jalsa were broadcast in Africa. Reports prepared about Germany Jalsa were shown on Ghana National TV, Gambia National TV, Rwanda National TV, Sierra Leone National TV and Uganda National TV. With the grace of Allah the Almighty, through this Jalsa, there has been extensive introductions to the Jamaat throughout the world. May God Almighty bless this in every way.

(Originally published in Al Fazl International, 2 August 2019, pp. 5-11. Translated by The Review of Religions.)

The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah

Alhakam
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The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah

Hazrat Ibn Abbas, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“There are no days during which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days,” meaning the [first] ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. They said: “O Messenger of Allah! Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah?” He said: “Not even Jihad in the cause of Allah, unless a man goes out by himself and his wealth and does not bring anything back.”

(Sunan Ibn Majah)

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Al Hakam is a weekly English newspaper for members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat around the world. Its aim is to provide Ahmadis with content regarding the beliefs of the true Islam, reintroduced to the world by Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, peace be on him.

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