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Kamuli Regional Jalsa and Peace Symposium

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Kamuli Regional Jalsa and Peace Symposium

Batte Ahmad, Uganda Correspondent

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The Kamuli Regional Jalsa took place on Saturday, 24 August 2019 in Kiyunga Jamaat.

After the arrival of the amir and missionary-in-charge, the programme started with Zuhr and Asr prayers, which were led by Amir Sahib.

Salat was followed by the inspection of different departments, including Langar Khana, registration; guidance was given by the Amir to different departmental heads as to how improvements can be made. Next was a recitation of the Holy Quran by Inayatullah Lwanga Sahib and its Luganda translation. This was followed by an Urdu poem, composed by the Promised Messiahas by Sheikh Nasir Ahmad Ssonko.

Short speeches were then delivered by invited guests and among them was Chairman LC3 (local council) Malindi Joseph who thanked the Jamaat for their continuous reformation programmes.

He said, “When I was in Seeta for the annual national convention, I appreciated all the programme and the hospitality which was given to us … In true heart [I] am a Muslim.”

This blessed occasion was attended by many invited guests, including district councilors, district administrators, youth counsilors and representatives of the parliament of Uganda.

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After that, the amir and missionary-in-charge said that in this age, there is a lot of misconception about the character of Holy Prophet Muhammadsa. Therefore, he called upon Sheikh Adam Hamid Ssembajjwe to deliver a speech about Muhammadsa as an excellent role model for mankind. To begin with, he recited chapter 33, verse 22 of the Holy Quran and then he gave a brief description on the perception of the Holy Prophetsa in the present world. He then gave a brief history before the advent of the Holy Prophetsa and explained how it was divided into two phases; the phase of adversity and the phase of prosperity and that in each phase, he portrayed excellent examples throughout and this makes him an excellent role model.

Next was an Arabic poem composed by the Promised Messiahas and recited by Matege Tahajud and Sadat Kamya, two Jamia students.

Thereafter, Amir Sahib made remarks concerning the concept of prayers as it is understood in the modern world. Upon this, he summoned Sheikh Batte Ahmad to give a speech concerning the importance of observing prayers. After reciting chapter 2, verse 165 of the Holy Quran, he gave instances which showed that many people in the current age observe prayers but value them as they value cultural rites and norms and that is why many of them are frustrated in prayers.

Then he finally showed that the source of acceptance of prayers is the mutual relationship of love between a devoted servant of God and his Lord, the Creator of the heavens and the earth.

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Therefore using the writings of the Promised Messiahas, he threw light on the concept of God’s decree of good and bad, and its close link with prayers as it is clearly explained by the Promised Messiahas in his book, Blessings of Prayer.

After the speech, gifts were distributed to the invited guests in which the representative of the speaker of parliament Hon Rebecca Alitwaara Kadaaga, the LC3 Chairman Mr Malindi Joseph and a police officer were presented with a copy of the Holy Quran and other Jamaat books.

This was followed by Amir Sahib’s concluding remarks in which he called upon different members of the community to convey the message of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in order to create peace in the community. He also cautioned the politicians against the tendency of character assassination which is ravaging our community.

Then he announced that 3,120 people managed to attend this year’s Kamuli regional Jalsa and peace symposium  and 113,800 Ugandan shillings were contributed to Humanity First.

With a silent prayer, Amir Sahib concluded the function. After the formal conclusion, lunch was served.  

Jail visits on Eid-ul-Adha 2019 in Congo Kinshasa

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Jail visits on Eid-ul-Adha 2019 in Congo Kinshasa

Shahid Mehmood Khan, Secretary Ishaat, Jamaat Congo Kinshasa

In the Democratic Republic of Kinshasa, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat celebrated Eid-ul-Adha on 12 August 2019.

Many programmes were organised in different regions of the country in the week to come. The regional missionaries of Bandundu, Kikwit, Mbanza Ngungu and Matadi, Farid Ahmad Sahib, Ata-ul-Qayyum Sahib, Rizwan Majoka Sahib and Farhad Ahmad Sahib contacted the jail authorities and made preparations to distribute a healthy meal among the prisoners.

The teams of Khuddam in every region prepared the meals for the prisoners a night before. Before the distribution of the meals, a short message was also read to the prisoners in which stress was laid on the obedience of the authorities.

Since every jail has been divided in different pavilions, the distribution also took place pavilion-wise. The jail authorities were also served afterwards.

The Provincial Director of Jails of Bandundu region Mr Bikoko Mwenga Joseph expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the services of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat for society.

The jail superintendent in Matadi also thanked the delegation of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat for rendering services for the prisoners.

The combined total number of all the prisoners served in every region was around 2,000.

The proper time for religious education and training

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The proper time for religious education and training
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Another point to bear in mind is that the most appropriate and advisable time for the acquisition of religious education is during the period of childhood. How much can one achieve if they begin to learn the basics of Arabic grammar in old age? Retentive faculties are sharp in childhood. The memory is never as firm in the later stages of one’s life. I remember vividly certain things from my childhood even now, but have forgotten many instances from fifteen years ago. The reason for this is because the imprints of learning in the early stages of life become so finely impressed and deep rooted, due to this being the age in which the faculties are developing, that they can never be erased. However, this is an extensive discussion.

In short, in the practice of education, it ought to be considered and especially remembered that religious education should begin from the very beginning. I have always had a desire and this is the case even now; may Allah fulfil this wish. Observe how your neighbouring nations, such as the Aryas, have given importance to education. They have accumulated hundreds of thousands of rupees, if not more, to construct a magnificent building for a college and its necessities. If the Muslims do not take a keen interest in the education of their children, then they should take heed that a time will come when even their children will be lost to them.

(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, pp 68 – 69)

6-12 September

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6-12 September

6 September 1915: Hazrat Qazi Muhammad Abdullah Bhatti departed for England with the aim of serving the mission there.

6 September 1928: Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Musleh-e-Maudra graciously hosted the attendees of a month long dars-ul-Quran in Dar-ul-Masih, Qadian and food was served to them.

6 September 1934: Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh departed for his journey towards England to pursue higher studies in Oxford. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra penned a thirty-page set of guidelines and instructions. Hazrat Nawab Mubaraka Begumra wrote a heart-touching poem, full of prayers, which opened with verse:

جاتے ہو مِری جان خدا حافظ وناصر

اللہ نگہبان خدا حافظ و ناصر

His sea voyage ended on 22 September when he reached his destination.

6 September 1934: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra instructed office-bearers of the Jamaat’s central organisations to receive their visitors with courtesy and try their utmost to precede others in paying salutation of Salam.

6 September 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra addressed a press conference. In the conference, Huzoorra suggested required solutions to the problems the government was facing with reference to the influx of immigrants from East Punjab.

7 September 1924: Hazrat Sir Chaudhry Muhammad Zafarulla Khanra read out a message of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in the presence of press representatives and other dignitaries in London.

7 September 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra spoke in the second session of the Hindu-Muslim Unity Conference. Prior to this, Huzoorra had already delivered his address on 30 August. In his speech during the second session, Huzoorra presented 20 important suggestions in connection to the theme of the event. The governor of Punjab also met Huzoorra.

7 September 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra summoned a special and emergency session of Majlis-e-Shura, which was held in Ratan Bagh, Lahore and attended by 150 delegates. Huzoorra spoke for around five hours. Huzoorra spoke on the scheme of the new Markaz in Pakistan and estimated a figure of half a million rupees for this project and that it should be collected from members of the Jamaat.

7 September 1948: Hazrat Maulana Abdur Rahim Nayyarra passed away. He pledged allegiance to the Promised Messiahas in 1901 and served the Jamaat in various capacities; he was a teacher in Qadian and pioneer missionary to Africa and Europe.

8 September 1919: Hazrat Hafiz Hamid Alira passed away. He was a personal steward of the Promised Messiahas. Hazrat Ahmadas described him as a pious, religious and faithful person.

8 September 1928: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered his dars-ul-Quran in Masjid Aqsa from morning till noon, which concluded the month-long series of duroos [singular: dars]. At the end, Huzoorra led the gathering in silent prayer and distributed prizes amongst those who showed exemplary results in an examination taken on the dars.

8 September 1947: Following the instructions of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, on this date, Sheikh Muhammad Ismail Pani Pati Sahib brought to Lahore the print of the Holy Quran’s English translation from Qadian. This material was sent to Kashmir Art Press for binding and was ready for distribution in the early days of 1948.

8 September 1953: Hazrat Saleha Begumra, noble wife of Hazrat Mir Muhammad Ishaaqra, passed away. She was among the 13 founding members of the Lajna Imaillah auxiliary.

9 September 1913: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira composed some verses in Punjabi containing prayers.

9 September 1920: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Dharamshala and a humble jubilation ceremony was arranged in connection to good news from England that the missionary there, Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Siyalra had purchased a piece of land where a mosque could be built.

9 September 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra spoke in English at an event organised by the East and West Union in London.

9 September 1955: Dr Abdus Salam Sahib gave a lecture at District Board Hall, Jhang.

10 September 1941: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was in Dalhousie when an unfortunate incident happened in his residence; some local police officers behaved in a discourteous manner towards him. This was a conspiracy that was woven to trap and malign some members of the Jamaat. Huzoorra dealt with it untiringly till the end. After months of investigation and enquiries, the home secretary of the Punjab government himself had to submit a written apology to Huzoorra on 27 April 1942, which concluded their fiasco.

11 September 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra called on the secretary of religious and ethics department in the League of Nations and a topic of mutual interest – world peace – was discussed in detail.

11 September 1927: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered a 3-hour long address in Shimla, which was so enlightening and informative that people showed great interest and offered their full attention. This session was presided over by Khan Zulfiqar Ali Khan Sahib. During Huzoor’sra stay in Shimla, he called on Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Qaid-e-Azam.

11 September 1947: The partition’s unrest started jolting the outskirts of Qadian. People thronged to Qadian in order to find respite from the ongoing turmoil. The number of displaced people grew rapidly and reached 50,000, who would soon be provided with shelter and food. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra asked for 200 trucks to transport women and children. This carefully planned rescue mission took almost two months to normalise the plight of the agonised migrants. The biggest caravan comprised of 72 trucks and travelled on 12 October. The early preparation, bravery and discipline of Ahmadi organisers was extensively admired by British Army officers, who were on duty to escort these convoys. It is reported that once the news of a caravan’s departure from Qadian was conveyed to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra in Lahore, he would give alms regularly and recited the Quran till their safe arrival in Pakistan.

12 September 1931: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra attended a two-day session of the Kashmir Committee held in Sialkot.

12 September 1959: The Noor Mosque in Frankfurt, Germany was inaugurated by Hazrat Sir Muhammad Zafarulla Khanra. This was the Jamaat’s second mosque in Germany and the fourth in Europe.

Canada Atfal Ijtema at new location

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Canada Atfal Ijtema at new location

S Mukarram Nazeer, Canada Correspondent

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The 32nd Annual Ijtema of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada was held in Aiwan-e-Tahir during the weekend on 17 and 18 August 2019. 

Over the last few years, this Ijtema was held at Hadiqa-e-Ahmad in Bradford. Now, for safety and organisational convenience, this year, the Ijtema was moved to Aiwan-e-Tahir located in the Baitul Islam Mosque complex, Toronto. 

Registration started at 8:30am with a long line up of Atfal coming from all over Canada.

National Amir Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib formally inaugurated the Ijtema with the flag hoisting ceremony.  This was followed by the opening session which started at 10am.  Salat was the theme of Ijtema this year.  With permission of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, for the first time, Atfal Ijtema proceedings were transmitted live for parents and members of the Canada Jamaat.

The main hall of Aiwan-e-Tahir was filled with Atfal.  The opening session started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the Atfal pledge led by Mohtamim Atfal, Ayaz Warraich Sahib.  Next, a poem was presented by Khaqan Kamal Sahib with translation by Fateh Imran Sahib.

Amir Sahib delivered an inspiring opening address regarding the importance of Salat.  Amir Sahib continued the programme with the presentation of academic achievement awards to Atfal.  He also acknowledged new Atfal who joined the Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya this year.

The next programme item was the exciting academic and sports competitions for both age groups, ma‘yar-e-kabir (12-15 years old) and ma‘yar-e-saghir (7-11 years old), with designated areas for each. These fun events continued until lunch time.

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Even more events were organised for Atfal to engage in. These included an obstacle course, Zorbing, sumo wrestling and a gladiator joust.  An exhibition & Atfal Hub was also running during the Ijtema,  except during prayer times and session times.

Zuhr and Asr prayers were combined and offered at Baitul Islam mosque. Various competitions continued after prayers until dinner time. 

In early evening, Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered, and a very interesting question & answer session was held for each age group.  Both groups of Atfal were treated to an enjoyable science and magic show just before bed time on day 1 of the Ijtema.

Day 2 of the Ijtema started in the early hours of the summer morning with Tahajud and Fajr prayers with about 400 Atfal in the mosque.  This was followed by dars-ul-Quran and individual recitation of the Holy Quran.

The academic and sports competitions final events were held in the morning. The academic competitions included tilawat, nazm, Urdu, English and French speeches as well as Azan and Hifz-e-Quran. These competitions were wrapped up by lunch time for all Atfal. The closing session of this year’s Ijtema began after Zuhr and Asr prayers in the mosque.

Principal Jamia Ahmadiyya Canada, Daud Ahmad Hanif Sahib was the chief guest for the closing session and awarded prizes to the position holders of the academic competitions. 

Nazim-e-Ala Ijtema, Ayaz Warraich Sahib presented the final report of the 32nd National Atfal Ijtema.  This was followed by the concluding address by Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada, Zubair Afzal Sahib.

Thus, the 32nd National Ijtema of Majlis Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada came to a successful end.

There was a memorable group photo of all participating Atfal.  Many Atfal delivered loud and emotional slogans at the conclusion of the Ijtema.  The total attendance for this year’s Ijtema was 1,278 Atfal, representing 12 of the 14 regions across Canada.  This represented an increase of 259 Atfal and a 26% increase from last year.  Calgary region Atfal received a special award for travelling 3,362 kilometers to attend the Ijtema, the farthest distance travelled to attend Ijtimā.  In addition to Atfal, 150 guests also attended.   

Religion is very easy

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Religion is very easy

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

“Religion is very easy. Whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the afternoons and during the last hours of the nights.”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Iman)

Ansarullah Sierra Leone arranges Quran teachers’ training class

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Ansarullah Sierra Leone arranges Quran teachers’ training class
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The department of talim-ul-Quran in Majlis Ansarullah Sierra Leone organised a Quran teaching training class on 24 and 25 August. 13 Talim-ul-Quran secretaries from different regions attended the class.

The class began with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Imam Tahir Ahmad Farrukh Sahib addressed the participants on the importance of learning and teaching of the Holy Quran. He also discussed the importance of the Holy Quran’s recitation, with references from the Holy Quran, sayings of the Holy Prophetsa, excerpts from the writings of the Promised Messiahas and sayings of the Khulafa of Ahmadiyyat.

A lecture on tajweed (rules of Quran recitation) was delivered by Imam Hafiz Asadullah Sahib. He explained some verses of the Holy Quran with their proper pronunciation and explained the various rules of recitation so that the teachers may not only learn how to recite the Holy Quran properly but also teach others as well.

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Naseer Ahmad Qureshi Sahib taught basic Arabic grammar.

Apart from the teachings of the Holy Quran, emphasis was also given on the translation of Salat. Imam Muhammad Naeem Azhar Sahib taught Salat with English translation.

On the second day of the class, a test was taken of all the participants of the class. Alhamdolillah, all participants showed great interest in the class and learnt a lot in the two days.

Saeed-ur-Rahman Sahib, Amir and Missionary-in-Charge delivered the concluding address and distributed certificates to participants.

May Allah the Almighty enable all of us to recite the Holy Quran and enable us to practice the true teachings of the Quran. Amin.

Slavery in Islam: Abolishing the social vice

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Slavery in Islam: Abolishing the social vice
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The Economist (27 August 2019, “Everywhere in Chains”) ran a story on the concept of slavery in Islam, referring specially to a new book by Jonathan Brown titled Slavery and Islam. A whole array of arguments has been included in the analysis, both for and against Islam.

Since the issue of slavery has popped up, we thought it is essential that Al Hakam came forward and presented the true Islamic viewpoint on this very important issue, before all guns are pointed towards Islam. 

What ought not to be forgotten is that slavery is not something introduced by Islam. It is something that existed since pre-historic times and was a by-product of wars and conflicts between clans and tribes, evolving later into an international phenomenon. Of the numerous vices that Islam took upon itself to cleanse the human society of, slavery was one of them.

Wars were very common even before Islam and so was taking prisoners of war into slavery. Wars continued to break out during the time of the Prophetsa of Islam and prisoners of war had to be held as part of establishing peace; holding the mischievous from creating unrest and waging wars.

Now, the question here is this: What did Islam do regarding the vicious business of slavery? This discussion can go on forever, but here, we can only suffice by saying that the Prophetsa of Islam turned this lawless business into a system and further worked on how the system could finally be abolished. In a world where a slave was no more than a commodity, much like cattle and other domesticised animals, the Holy Prophetsa of Islam gave laws to ensure that slaves were, to start with, taken as human beings who had feelings, emotions and other humanly desires that needed to be looked after.

Surah al-Balad (chapter 90) is one of the chapters of the Holy Quran revealed to the Holy Prophetsa in the early days of being commissioned for prophethood. Verses 11 to 14 of this chapter clearly state that a society cannot progress unless slaves are freed. 

“And We showed him two ascending paths of nobility. But he did not follow the path of ‘Aqabah’. And what should make you know what the ‘Aqabah’ is? [It is] the freeing of a slave.”

One can ask that if he had received this commandment in the early days of his mission, why did the Holy Prophetsa of Islam not free all slaves immediately? This question will have to be replied with a question.

The majority of those who were held slaves were prisoners of wars and they were in great numbers. As prisoners of war, it was essential to see what background they were from; why they had partaken in war; whether they still had in their hearts the want to take up arms and create unrest and whether they had committed – what we call in the so-called modern day by the so-called modern man – crimes against humanity.

In a society that literally endorsed the saying, “All is fair in love and war”, the prisoners of war could possibly have practiced the notion in an inhumanely fashion by killing children and raping women. Would it have been a reasonable move to set them free to go back into society? Would society have remained safe with such persons lurking the streets? Of course not! Modern day prisons tend not to set a convicted felon free unless it is clearly established that they do not pose a threat to the safety and security of civilians. This is a very reasonable approach. And it was the same approach that was adopted by the Holy Prophetsa of Islam 14 centuries ago.

As long as there were slaves in the custody of Muslims, they were given safety, security and, above all, the opportunity to reform themselves. Slaves got a homely atmosphere through living with Muslim families, developed civic sense and, at the appropriate time, were freed to integrate with the general society. While they lived as slaves, they were treated by Muslim families in accordance with the Quranic injunction of Surah al-Nisa (verse 37) where believers are commanded to be kind to those enslaved under inevitable circumstances; grouped in this instruction to be kind and affectionate with are parents, relatives and slaves.

Verse 222 of Surah al-Baqarah encourages the marriage of free Muslims (or masters) and their slaves. Not only is the general Muslim public encouraged to show respect to slaves through lawfully marrying them, the Holy Prophetsa himself is instructed by Allah not to marry more than the women he had already married, unless it was for the safety and security of a slave woman. (Surah al Ahzab, Ch.33: V.53)

Sahih Muslim has recorded a hadith where Hazrat Abu Masudra is reported to have said that he was angry at one of his slaves and physically disciplined him. The Holy Prophetsa approached him and said, “Abu Masud, do not forget that there is a God above you Who has more power over you than you have over His slave.”

Abu Masud, terrified by this reminder and the presence of the Holy Prophetsa, immediately announced that he had freed that slave. The Holy Prophetsa, endorsing this act, said, “Had you not done so, you would have burnt in the fire of hell.” 

All this was a gradual progression of Islam towards finally abolishing slavery. Since we are addressing the allegations of modern man on Islam, we wish to remind everyone here of a process called “weaning out”. The weaning-out approach is used in medical, social and economic situations where there is dependence on a certain harmful element and the body or society has to be freed of that dependence. So, Islam gradually moved the society that was so badly dependent on slavery towards one that was free of all forms of slavery. 

Then came a time when, under divine instruction, the Holy Prophetsa abolished all forms of slavery. The details of how the weaning out process unfolded are long. However, it is unjust to accuse Islam of promoting slavery when it actually strove to abolish it through very reasonable, rational and practicable ways.

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa – the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat – has very eloquently spoken on how Islam views slavery and has also called world leaders to understand slavery in its most modern meaning and derivatives.

For example, speaking to the Pan African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association on 23 November 2013, he said:

“Based upon Islam’s true teachings, we [Ahmadi Muslims] strive and work towards the achievement of universal independence and self-determination, with the ambition that every single person in the world is able to live autonomously. All people should have fundamental freedoms, such as religious, political, national and civil freedom.

“The powerful nations take advantage of the weaker nations and dictate their own preferred policies and so, in this way, they have practically enslaved the developing countries. Sadly, the major powers take benefit and advantage of the natural resources of the poorer nations and do not give what is the due right of the weaker nations in return.”

Through these lines, we invite our readers to send any questions they may have regarding Islam and slavery; we will be happy to reply to them.

info@alhakam.org

100 Years Ago… – Nayyar’s travelogue: Qadian to London

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100 Years Ago… – Nayyar’s travelogue: Qadian to London

Al Fazl, 23 August 1919

“Master Abdul Rahim Nayyar Sahib is a proficient literary person and a skilled writer. He had promised before departing for the UK that he would continue to send accounts of his journey of Qadian to London in writing on a regular basis. Sadly, owing to poor health, during the course of the journey, he was not able to do that and sent only a single article.

“This should be considered the preface of his travelogue and meanwhile, [we] shall await the detailed accounts. Hopefully, now that he has reached the UK, he will be able to complete this article with comfort.

“Below is the article sent by him:” (Editor Al Fazl, 23 August 1919)

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Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim Nayyarra

15 July 1919: I am extremely joyful over my good fortune. I recall the bounties of my Lord and today, looking at the practical fulfilment of a long-held desire and pure yearning of my heart, I say happily:

للہ الحمد ہر آں چیز کہ خاطر می خواست

آخر آمد زپس پردۂ تقدیر پدید

[All praise belongs to Allah that everything He desires to be done, it finally came to pass through divine authority.]

Today, those things that were once dreams and those ambitions that were mere thoughts are materialising through the pure appearance of the Messiahas and the special attention of Fazl-e-Umar [Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra]. Glory be to God! Limitless peace be upon Muhammadsa of Arabia! May blessings shower upon Ahmadas of Qadian!

The unknown Abdul Rahim departs for the propagation of Islam as a Nayyar [star] of Ahmadiyyat. My heart possesses a series of thoughts. The map of my life is in front of my eyes. I am a living example of resurrection of the dead:

مِرادم معجزہ ہے انکے دم ان کی توجہ کا

میں زندہ ہوں اگرچہ قصہ لازرہے افسانہ

[My life is a miracle of his spirit and attention. Although, the tale of Lazarus (of Bethany) remains a legend, I am alive in reality.]

I was a child when I saw the carriage of the Holy Prophetsa in a dream and I touched the blessed feet of the chief of the universe. My mother interpreted the dream, “My son, you will become a scholar when you come of age or you will happen to find the Imam Mahdi.”

Praise belongs to my Lord that I came across the carriage of Allah’s Prophet Muhammadsa and I embraced his feet and became the servant of the Mahdi. When I was extremely sick and doctors were hopeless about my life, I wrote to God’s Messiah, “Huzoor, pray for me as you did [with the prayer that you carried out] for Abdul Rahim, son of Nawab Sahib. My heart desires to witness the victory of Huzoor.”

In reply, Hazrat Jariyullah [the Promised Messiahas] stated, “I have prayed. Keep me informed about your health.”

Exalted is Allah Almighty with all His glory for I regained health. I am alive in the age of the Promised Son [Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra] to witness the triumphs of the blessed Messiah. Once, Dr Syed Muhammad Hussain Shah Sahib and Dr Mirza Yaqub Baig Sahib were present before Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira and the topics under discussion were the lack of courage of Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib and the appointment of a missionary to England. Hazrat Khalifa Ira was expressing, “He [Maulvi Muhammad Ali Sahib] is not a very courageous person.” (Perhaps his name was being discussed as a missionary to England). Both doctors said, “Huzoor, even Khawaja Kamaludin Sahib has become brave after reaching there.”

Meanwhile, this humble one said “Assalamo alaikum” before Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira graciously provided me a seat and asked, “Shall we send you to England?”

It was not the time for me to travel so I abruptly responded, “Huzoor, they [pointing towards the doctors] are men of high ranks. I am a simple person. What could I possibly achieve?”

Huzoorra replied, “Tasks are in fact achieved by men of simple natures.”

All praise belongs to Allah that the [chosen] one appeared, who is elevating the status of simple men to high ranks, and the words uttered by the mouth of revered Nuruddinra became true today:

ایں سعادت چو بود قسمت ما

رفتہ رفتہ رسید نوبت ما

[As this good fortune was written to be my destiny, my destination is becoming nearer each moment.]

اللھم صل علی محمد وعلی الہ و اصحابہ وعلی عبدک المسیح الموعود

[O Allah, bless Muhammad, his followers, his companions and Your servant, the Promised Messiah.]

At the time of departure, the coming out of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih [IIra], along with the revered members of Qadian Jamaat, on the road to say farewell and the taking of the Half-e-Ita‘at [oath of obedience] by Huzoorra from his servants whilst walking and also praying for them is an honour that only Allah, by His sheer grace, can grant to an utterly incompetent person like me.

ہے عجب میرے خدا میرے پہ احساں تیرا

کس قدر شکر کروں اے مِرے سلطاں تیرا

[My Lord, Your ways of showering bounties upon me are astounding. How grateful should I be to You, O my King?]

A series of thoughts, which revolved around the remembrance of Allah’s blessings, honour given by Hazrat Khalifa IIra to this humble servant, slight thoughts of my ailing wife and my day-old son, lingered till Batala. When I looked at my watch, it appeared that I was late, but the God of this Messiahas caused the train to stand past the scheduled time and we had plenty of time to complete our preparation before boarding the train.

Brother Sheikh Fazl Haq Sahib accompanied the servants of Hazrat Fazle-Umar from Batala to Amritsar in order to remind everyone of the fresh blessings and grace of Allah that was descending upon us. Fazl Haq Sahib remained with me personally until I had sat on the Bombay Mail train (the donkey of the Dajjal – Antichrist) and I had parted from the people in Amritsar with the train’s sudden motion. May Allah reward him the best of rewards.

At the Amritsar Railway Station, Ataullah Sahib, son of respected Dr Karam Ilahi Sahib, and Babu Faqir Ali Sahib, on behalf of Amritsar Jamaat, welcomed us and showed hospitality to this servant of Mahmud[ra].

Babu Sahib said, “It is an interesting coincidence that when Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Sahib was travelling to the UK, I was on duty to signal the train driver that the track was clear to go and today, I am also scheduled to offer this duty.”

I considered this as a very good omen and prayed to God Almighty that He grants progress to Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Amritsar. Although we embarked on the train, the second-class compartment was overcrowded to the extent that we had to travel while standing for a long time. It is quite a surprise that three young men are on the same train who are on their way to London. Two of them are Hindu by faith and the third one is a Muslim. Hence, our mission of tabligh in the UK has begun from them.

Jalsa Salana Western Canada 2019

Alhakam
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Jalsa Salana Western Canada 2019

Kalim Ahmed, Naib Afsar Jalsa Gah (Press & Media)

The 37th Jalsa Salana Western Canada 2019 concluded in Calgary, amidst countless blessings of Allah the Almighty.

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This year, Jalsa Salana for Western Canada was held on 24-25 August 2019 in Calgary. The Jalsa was attended by 3,255 Jamaat members and invited guests. Delegates from all the four provinces of Western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba) were in attendance.

In fulfillment of the desire of our beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah be his Helper, to reach out to First Nations of Canada and build long-term relationships, this year’s Jalsa was held on the traditional lands of Tsuut’ina First Nation near Calgary.

In addition to Chief Lee Crowchild of Tsuut’ina First Nation, several aboriginal leaders and elders travelled from Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Northwest Territories to attend Jalsa Salana.

The theme of this year’s Jalsa was, “All goodness lies in coming unto me with sincerity”.

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The highlights of Jalsa  included various exhibitions showcasing translations of the Holy Quran in world languages, the peaceful teachings of Islam, and the “Pathway to Peace” campaign.

A special reception was attended by over 100 prominent guests including several members of parliament, members of provincial legislature, city councilors, aboriginal chiefs and elders and other community leaders. The Jalsa proceedings were covered by mainstream and ethnic print and electronic media, including CBC, CTV, Global TV, Omni TV and many other radio stations and newspapers.

On Friday, 23 August, Amir Sahib Canada arrived at the Jalsa venue to inspect the Jalsa Salana arrangements at 7pm. He had a tour of various departments and gave detailed instructions to the volunteers. Later, he addressed a formal session of volunteers and highlighted the importance of hospitality citing examples from the life of the Holy Prophetsa and the Promised Messiahas. He stressed on serving the guests of Promised Messiahas with a smile.

The formal proceedings of Jalsa Salana commenced on Saturday, 24 August at 11am with the hoisting of Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat by Amir Sahib Canada. The opening session was presided by Chaudhry Abdul Bari Sahib, Naib Amir Canada, who acknowledged that this blessed event was being held on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, comprising of the Siksika, Piikani and Kainai First Nations, as well as the Tsuut’ina First Nation and the Stoney Nakoda, including the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Wesley First Nations.

In the inaugural address, Lal Khan Malik Sahib, Amir Jamaat Canada highlighted the importance of the blessed institution of Jalsa Salana, which was founded by the Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas under divine guidance. He also narrated various ahadith highlighting the blessings of Allah on the attendees of such gatherings. Other speeches of the first sessions included, “Cultivating Divine Attributes in Our Life”, “Hidden Treasures – Books of the Promised Messiahas”, and “Surely, Salat Restrains one from Indecency and Manifest Evil”.

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The session was adjourned at 1pm for lunch break. The second session started at 3pm after offering Zuhr & Asr prayers. Sultan Mahmood Sahib, Amir Jamaat Calgary presided over the session, which included speeches on, “Blessings of Spending in the Way of Allah” and “Establishing a Personal Relationship with Allah Through Prayers”.

The third session was presided by Lal Khan Malik Sahib, Amir Jamaat Canada. The session started at 5pm after a short tea break. After recitation of the Holy Quran and poem, a few selected dignitaries were invited to say a few words. In their messages, the leaders of First Nations welcomed the Jamaat on holding its annual convention on their territories and commended its efforts in reaching out and extending a hand of friendship. The only presentation after the dignitaries messages was on, “The Holy Quran’s Response to Contemporary Issues”.

The session concluded at 6:30pm followed by a dinner reception in honour of the guests. A simultaneous separate session was held by ladies during this time.

The first day concluded with a Q&A Session with Amir Jamaat Canada held after Maghrib and Isha prayers.

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On 25 August, the fourth and final session started at 11:30am, presided by Wasim Bashir Sahib, Amir Jamaat Vancouver. After recitation of the Holy Quran and poem, presentation of Academic Achievement Awards was held. Topics of speeches in this session included, “Obedience to Khilafat”, “The Holy Prophetsa – Liberator of Women” and “Domestic Peace and Harmony”.

A video message from the Mayor of Calgary, Naheed Nenshi, welcoming the delegates of Jalsa Salana, was played at this occasion.

The highlight of the session was the concluding address by National Amir Sahib on the topic, “Allah Changes the State of Fear of the Believers into Peace Through Khilafat”.

Amir Sahib narrated various incidents of trials and tribulations from the history of early Islam and throughout Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya, where the state of extreme fear and anxiety was replaced by peace, under the protection of Khilafat.

The Jalsa Salana Concluded at 2pm with dua led by Amir Jamaat Canada.

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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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