Jalsa Salana preparation is an ongoing project that runs throughout the year. For Jalsa Salana 2019, formal meetings and planning commenced in January 2019 after approval of the organising committees by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. The Jalsa Salana Management Committee began to meet on a weekly basis to review red book points and settle contracts with marquee, lavatory, cabin, track and other supply contractors.
To date, monthly reports have been presented to Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa and Huzooraa has graciously given us constant guidance regarding Jalsa Salana preparations.
We have a 28-day period in which the whole Jalsa Salana site along with its infrastructure must be setup and then, after the Jalsa, dismantled. As such, there has been continuous work in progress at Hadeeqatul Mahdi since our 28-day time frame started. Marquees are being marked out and set up, Khuddam are volunteering for waqare-amal, our stores are being stocked and specialist teams (such as the electrical team) consisting of Jamaat members are setting up their various departments.
The air-conditioning system that was set up last year within the Jalsa Gahs, with the permission and instruction of Huzooraa, will be installed this year as well, aiding in case of high temperatures.
This year, with our new Markaz in Islamabad, there is a whole new setup and extensive planning has gone into catering for the scores of guests expected at Islamabad. They will certainly come to the new Markaz to meet Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa, offer prayers behind him and pray at Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IV’srh resting place. Therefore, new marquees, guest areas, scanning stations, prayer overflow and a langar area are being set up at Islamabad.
A distinct feature of Jalsa Salana UK is of course the fresh rotis (flat breads) that are made on site for the guests of the Promised Messiahas. Accordingly, the over-hauling of our roti plant in Hadeeqatul Mahdi has started to ensure quality when Jalsa Salana arrives.
The work is increasing daily as we approach Jalsa Salana and we are witnessing volunteers arriving from across the UK. In fact, volunteers from the USA and Canada will also be arriving to assist in the Jalsa build-up, Insha-Allah.
All readers of Al Hakam are humbly requested to pray so that we can serve the guests of the Promised Messiahas and work in the manner that beloved Huzooraa expects of us. May Allah cover our shortcomings and bless our efforts. Amin.
Having
been appointed Political Delegate of the Ahmadiyya Community, I am very busy in
delivering lectures, writing letters and articles to the papers and visiting
the officials to make the English public well understand what reforms India
really wants with special reference to the needs of our community which is
spread all over India and has always been loyal and faithful to the British
rule. My articles and letters have already appeared in some of the papers in
this country such as the News and Chronicle, the West London News,
the Mercury the Record, the Morning Post the Observer,
etc.
To the Royalty
1. A
letter of welcome with some literature was sent to Dr Epitacid Pessoa, the
Brazilian President, during his short visit to London.
2. A
letter of congratulations on behalf of the Ahmadiyya Community was sent to His
Majesty the King-Emperor on His Majesty’s birthday, 3 June.
3. Two
copies of my lecture presented to Her Majesty the Queen-Empress and His Majesty
the King-Emperor have been duly acknowledged.
4. His
Highness the Sultan of Egypt was congratulated on contracting marriage with the
Sultana Nazli.
5.
Ahmadiyya literature sent for the Mediterranean Mine Clearing force has been
duly acknowledged by the Secretary to the Commander-in-Chief.
To the Notability
1. A
letter of congratulations with some literature was sent to Mr Hawker, the
famous Airman who has been granted Rs. 75,000 as Consolation Prize for his
attempt to fly [over] the Atlantic Ocean.
2. A
letter was written to Miss Ruth Law, America’s well-known woman flier who is
going to attempt a Transatlantic flight in a Curtis Aeroplane. She has been
given the tidings of the advent of the Promised One.
3. The
Ahmadiyya movement has been brought to the notice of Miss Jane Addams,
President of the Women’s International Committee for Permanent Peace, Zurich
and some literature has been supplied to the respectable lady.
4. The
glad tidings of the reappearance of Christ in this day, was sent with some
literature to Mr Prebendary, whose lecture on the End of the World has been
much discussed of in the press. I have explained to him in my letter that the
chief thing to be considered in connection with the end of the world is no
doubt the promised advent of the Messiah, as pointed out by the lecturer, but
only God knows in what form he ought to have appeared.
Activities in London
We have
been very busy in the month of June in various kinds of mission work. Brother
Abdullah’s severe illness with bronchitis and asthma increased our work and
worry. He is much better now, thank God, and feels quite well sometimes, but he
still requires a long rest before being able to take up some active work.
I am still suffering from granular eyelids
which has rendered me unable to do any reading or writing work. Some English
Muslim friends (such as Mrs Jameela Shah, Mrs Abasi and Miss Besset) and Mr
Abdul Rahim Alabi Smith, a young Nigerian Ahmadi, have been of great help in
disposing of my correspondence. May God be their reward.
The following lectures have been delivered
during the month:
1. 1
June – I delivered a lecture on the subject of “unbelievers,” proving that
those who do not believe in the temporal or the spiritual rulers of the day can
derive no advantage from believing in the rulers of the past ages.
2. 8
June – I delivered a lecture on the subject of “Spring Cleaning” showing the
necessity of the appearance of a spiritual reformer on the basis of evidence
from nature.
3.
Friday, 13 February – A sermon on the subject of political reforms in India was
delivered in the East End which has been reported in a London paper named News
and Chronicle, dated 17 June 1919, and is as follows:
Home Rule in India
“Mufti
Muhammad Sadiq, the representative of the Ahmadiyya Community in India (founded
by the Prophet Ahmad and numbering about 600,000) delivered a sermon before
Friday Prayers at 121 East India Dock-road, Poplar, expressing his community’s
views on the Indian Reform Bill. While advocating some necessary reforms to
give a better and higher hand to the Indians in governing the country, he
affirmed that India is not yet prepared for such a big jump as Home Rule or
anything like it. India contains many different sects and communities which are
generally at daggers drawn against each other, and some of them being very
small in number want the protection of a paternal government from being
devoured and put to dust by their rivals. Moreover, a majority of the Indians
being still illiterate are quite unable to even understand what Home Rule is.”
4.
Sunday 15 June – A lecture delivered by me in Ahmadiyya Lecture Hall on the
Indian Reform Bill.
5. Two
lectures were delivered by Mr SC Ahmadi at Hastings on the subjects of the
modern Christ, and the loyalty of Indians to the British Crown. Both the lectures roused a good deal of
interest in the Town, and were reported by the local papers, as a result of
which a respectable lady has joined the mission.
6.
Sunday 22 June – A lecture was delivered by me on the subject of “What India
Needs” and a paper on Islam was read by Mr Smith. Mr Hadji delivered a short
sermon on the Prophethood of the Promised Messiah.
7.
Sunday, 29 June being the Eed [Eid] Festival day, we had a big gathering of
Indian and English Muslims, the majority of whom were entertained with dinner
and afternoon tea. The prayer was conducted by me and a sermon delivered after
it as usual.
8. Mr
Abdullah, who is now convalescing in Hastings, delivered a lecture there on the
Message of Prophet Ahmad on Monday, 30 June, and is busy in distributing
literature in that part of the country.
A New Leaflet
A new
leaflet named “A Call to Truth” which is a reprint from the writings of His
Hazrat the Khalifatul Masih II is now being widely distributed in this country.
New Converts
By the
grace of God we secured three converts to Islam during the last month: Miss
Rosetta Hobson, Mr MeCarteney and Miss Eliza Gabel. They have been given the
Muslim names Gulab Bi, Jareeullah and Amina respectively. The form of
initiations signed by them has been posted to Qadian.
A learned Muslim young English lady
(journalist by profession) named Miss Ameena Oliver, has joined the fold of the
prophet Ahmad and adopted her new name as Ahmadi-ji. Her form of application
for initiation into the Ahmadiyya movement is being forwarded along with others
to His Hazrat the Khalifatul Masih.
El
Mufti, 4 Star Street, Edgware Road, London, W. Q. 2 July 1912 [1919]
“Beware that Allah the Almighty has not given the plague the name of mercy, so that the one who dies from it be considered a martyr. This age is full of threats. It has occurred as a sign. It would leave after distinguishing between a believer and a non-believer. Its name is رجز [punishment] and it has been called a torment in my revelation.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 2, p. 542 [1988 edition])
Highlighting the words of the Promised Messiahas from the above extract, “It [the plague] would leave after distinguishing between a believer and a non-believer”, the opponents of the Jamaat and the Promised Messiahas claim that the distinction between a believer and a non-believer was not established or witnessed during the plague epidemic.
The opponents have not presented any proof
or evidence to support their claim; a mere baseless objection. The devastatios
caused by the plague in the Indian subcontinent and the way it vehemently
destroyed villages and towns is recorded in history. In those circumstances,
Ahmadi Muslims were greatly safeguarded by Allah the Almighty as compared to
the opponents. If, God forbid, Ahmadi Muslims had been affected by the plague
in large numbers at any place, opponents would have raised their voices and
published this in countless newspapers of that time. However, we do not find
any such incident where the opponents recognised the deaths of Ahmadi Muslims
in large numbers which demonstrates that Ahmadis were in fact saved in greater
numbers than those who opposed the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat.
Moreover, the Promised Messiahas,
along with nearly 80 members residing in his house, was safeguarded as per the
promise of Allah the Almighty. Furthermore, the opponents have themselves
admitted that there was a rise in the number of Ahmadis from 300,000 to 400,000
by March 1906. Instead of dying from the plague, Ahmadi Muslims increased.
Hence, the distinction between a believer and a non-believer becomes evident
from the course of events that took place during the outbreak of the plague.
Opponents object to another saying of the
Promised Messiahas in which he sheds light on the ranks of the Holy
Prophet’ssa companions under the heading The Plague and Ahmadis.
Once, a bigot Maulvi [Muslim cleric] asked the Promised Messiahas
regarding the [handful of] Ahmadi casualties due to the plague and mockingly
enquired about its cure. The Promised Messiahas responded by saying:
“Have
you [Maulvi Sahib] formulated a remedy [to refute] the sign of the solar and
lunar eclipse as well? At present, there lies a discussion regarding the signs
and not the cure. Surely, the one who accepts me with full sincerity will
certainly be saved, but I do not know who that person is as I do not see beyond
the hearts of anyone. A group of companions also embraced martyrdom due to the
plague. However, you must observe that Abu Bakrand Umar, may Allah
be pleased with them, did not pass away due to plague. God Almighty has made a
distinction between His people, as he states:
‘And of them are some who suppress their
desires, severely, and of them are some who excel others in acts of goodness’
(Surah al-Fatir, Ch.35: V.33).” (Malfuzat, Vol. 7, p. 141)
Referring to the above extract, opponents assert
that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat has rebuked the likes of Hazrat Abu
Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrahra and
those companions who passed away due to plague, and that kufr
(infidelity) or faith has nothing to do with the matter of falling victim to
the plague.
Allah the Almighty has declared the ranks
of true believers in the Holy Quran. As it is stated:
“And of them are some who suppress their
desires, severely, and of them are some who excel others in acts of goodness by
Allah’s leave. And that indeed is the great distinction” (Surah al-Fatir,
Ch.35: V.33).
Likewise, Allah the Almighty has declared
the ranks of righteous persons at another place in the Holy Quran:
“And whoso obeys Allah and this Messenger
of His shall be among those on whom Allah has bestowed His blessings, namely,
the Prophets, the Truthful, the Martyrs, and the Righteous. And excellent
companions are these” (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.70).
Hence, these verses highlight that Allah
the Almighty has divided his near ones and spiritually adept in various ranks.
Moreover, every holy person does not belong to a single group. There are
different ranks according to their spiritual status and some may fall in one
group while the others may possess an elevated status, becoming part of a
spiritually higher ranked group.
In the statement, mentioned by the
opponents, the Promised Messiahas has discussed the two groups of
the companions. Firstly, the group that comprised of Khulafa-e-Rashideen or the
first four rightly guided successors of Islam and secondly, the group of all
the other companions of the Holy Prophetsa. The Promised Messiahas
has expounded that even though some companions embraced martyrdom through
plague, but the Khulafa-e-Rashideenremained unharmed because they had
prominence over the others in the eyes of Allah the Almighty.
This explanation clarifies that the
founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat has not carried out that discourse in order
to mock or rebuke any companion of the Holy Prophetsa. In fact the
opponents have deliberately mentioned the name of Hazrat Abu Ubaidah ibn
al-Jarrahra to arouse the sentiments of Muslims as they are
emotionally attached with the Holy Prophetsa and his companions.
Otherwise, the statement of the Promised Messiahas speaks for
itself; he has not in any way reproached Hazrat Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrahra.
The statement of the Promised Messiahas
pointed out by the opponents is dated 21 August 1904. He has addressed the same
matter on various other occasions as well. He stated under the heading “Death
From Plague”:
“This objection of the opponents is wrong that why do people from our Jamaat pass away due to the plague. We have not prophesied at any time that every person who takes Bai‘at on our hand will be safeguarded from plague. However, we say that the most superior in rank [spiritually] do not die by contracting this type of disease … Plague spread in the era of Hazrat Umarra but was he affected by it? … The number of prophets who have appeared earlier is 124,000. Can anybody claim that even a single one among them died of plague? However, there is no doubt for sure that in the times of this disease, certain believers of [spiritually] lower rank contract plague but they are [considered] martyrs. Allah the Almighty covers their weaknesses and sins in the same way He did in the Jihads [holy wars which were fought to defend Islam] against the kuffar [infidels] by the Holy Prophetsa. Although there was a prophecy that only kuffar would be thrown in hell in those Jihads, but certain Muslims were also killed. However, the most prominent class of companions, i.e. the likes of Hazrat Abu Bakrra and Hazrat Umarra were not martyred and the Holy Prophetsa was not martyred as well. This shows that the most elevated group of people [spiritually] are not martyred in this way during a war. Similarly, if any individual from our Jamaat falls victim to the plague, then it will be a source of martyrdom for him and God Almighty shall reward him for it.” (Malfuzat, Vol. 9, pp. 283-284)
Citing the above mentioned extract of 5
May 1907, opponents suggest that the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaatconsidered Hazrat Hamzara bin Abdul Muttalib, a martyr of
Uhud, and Hazrat Hussainra, a martyr of Karbala, to be lower in rank
than the other Companions. The opponents emphatically ask how those who were
martyred could be lower in rank and those who survived be higher in status.
Moreover, they assert that there is no such reference in the history Islam to
support the supposed viewpoint of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s founder.
Pondering over the saying of the Promised
Messiahas, singled out by the opponents, we find that he has
elucidated the same matter, as explained earlier, that Allah the Almighty has
established a distinction between the spiritual ranks and status of His holy
persons. The Promised Messiahas has again pointed out two groups and
used the term “superior rank” or “superior status” for the first group and
“lower rank” for the second group. Hence, he has by no means criticised or
defamed any single companion of the Holy Prophetsa.
We would like to point out for the
knowledge of the readers that the statements of the Promised Messiahas
under discussion have been taken from the reporting of various newspapers. The
reporter published the sayings of the Promised Messiahas in
accordance with the level and extent of his comprehension. Hence, there lies a
possibility of error and misunderstanding in these reports.
In order to fully understand the
perspective of the Promised Messiahas, his actual writings hold
significant importance as theywould clarify his stance on the
matter under consideration. He states in his book Haqiqatul Wahi (The
Philosophy of Divine Revelation) published on 15 May 1907:
“Ever since the creation of this world, no
Prophet of God has ever died of the plague. True, such believers who are not
totally cleansed of sin, do sometimes contract the plague and die from it. This
kind of death serves as an atonement for their sins and it is a kind of
martyrdom, but nobody would have ever heard that, being Musa, someone
contracted the plague. Only a person who is extremely wicked, filthy, and
depraved could dare hold the belief that a Prophet or Vicegerent of God ever
died of the plague. Therefore, if this kind of death by the plague had been a
laudable type of martyrdom, upon which there could be no kind of criticism,
then the Prophets and Messengers of God would have been the first to merit it.
But as I have just stated, no one can prove that any Prophet or Messenger or a
holy person of the highest order, who held the distinction of converse and
discourse with God, ever suffered from this evil disease since the inception of
the world and then died of it. On the contrary, the primary targets of this
disease have, from the very beginning, been those very people who were guilty
of a variety of sins and transgressions or who were disbelievers and faithless.
Reason does not at all permit that Allah’s Prophets, Messengers, and recipients
of His revelation should similarly suffer from the disease which God has
prescribed to punish the disbelievers since the earliest of times.
“The Torah, the Gospel, and the Holy Quran
– all three unanimously declare that the plague has always been sent down to
punish the disbelievers. Moreover, as is borne out by the revealed Scriptures
and history, God has caused hundreds of thousands of disbelievers,
transgressors, and wicked people to perish through this very plague from the
very beginning. God is far above and beyond allowing His Elect to become victim
of this chastisement together with the disbelievers, and allow His exalted
Prophets to suffer the same chastisement from which thousands of evildoers have
always been dying during the time of the Prophets.” (The Philosophy of
Divine Revelation, pp. 682-683)
The Promised Messiahas further
states:
“The Holy Quran and the Torah both testify
that the plague symbolises the wrath of God. Believers of the highest class and
the Elect of God like Prophets and Siddiqin [the Truthful] have never
suffered from the plague. No one can prove that people belonging to this class
ever contracted the plague, because it is a chastisement of God which comes
down to punish the disbelievers and transgressors and those who go on
committing sin. The Elect of God are never made to partake of it.”(The
Philosophy of Divine Revelation, pp. 705-706)
(Research conducted by a panel of scholars at the Research Cell, Rabwah. Translated by Al Hakam)
From 8
to 14 June 2019, 38 Waqifeen-e-Nau from various parts of the UK partook in a
trip to the symbolic and historic land of Palestine and Israel. The purpose of
this trip was to enable Waqifeen-e-Nau brothers to foster strong relationships
with one another, as well as recognise the importance of the Waqf-e-Nau scheme
and further develop their religious and historical knowledge.
The group travelled from London, Luton
airport and arrived in Tel Aviv at approximately 9pm local time. From there,
Waqifeen travelled by coach to the current headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim
Community in the Middle East, Mahmood Mosque in Kababir, Haifa, where they
stayed for the duration of their trip. They were received with a warm welcome
and treated to excellent hospitality and care by the Kababir Jamaat that would
remain as such till their final day.
Here, I would like to mention that Haifa
was also visited by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, Khalifatul Masih II,
when he visited Europe in 1924.
The first day consisted of a packed
itinerary in Haifa. It began with a visit to one of the most popular
destinations in Israel, the Bahai gardens. Next, the group visited the
historical Al Istiqlal Mosque, the oldest Mosque in Haifa. The group were able
to offer nawafil there and feelings of admiration for architectural
significance of the site was felt.
The home of Prophet Elijahas,
in the steep hills of Mount Carmel, was the next destination for the group.
This location is also believed to be where he once travelled to contest the
claims of some certain false prophets during the time of his own prophethood.
The group had the chance to stop here and also received a welcome address by
Sadr Sahib Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Palestine and later tucked in to a
fantastic barbecue that had been arranged by the local Khuddam. The day ended
with a sitting with Amir Sahib Kababir at Mahmood Mosque. Ameer Sahib covered a
number of topics during his talk, including a fascinating and inspirational
account of Huzoor’saa election as Khalifatul Masih V, which, being a
member of the election committee, he was able to witness first-hand.
Day two was relatively relaxed in
comparison. First, the Waqifeen-e-Nau spent a couple of hours near Carmel
Beach. Here, they enjoyed soaking in the sun and participating in activities
such as water volleyball in the Mediterranean Sea and beach football. Prior to
departure, everyone took their chance to grab a customary ice-cream, as of
course, a trip to the beach can never feel complete without it!
Upon returning to the mosque, the group
offered Zuhr prayers followed by a sitting with the missionary of Kababir for a
discussion on the historical significance of the sites that they were to visit
in the coming days. In the evening, Waqifeen-e-Nau participated in an indoor
football competition that the Kababir Jamaat had specifically organised for
them.
After Tahajud and Fajr prayers and
breakfast on day three, the Waqf-e-Nau prepared for their first trip to the
West Bank, Palestine, accompanied by Amir Sahib. Following a three-hour journey
south, their first stop was at the home of a recent Ahmadi convert where they
were invited for breakfast before continuing on to Hebron. Here, they visited a
mosque which houses the tombs of Hazrat Abrahamas, his wife Hazrat
Sarahas, their son Hazrat Isaacas and his wife Hazrat
Rebeccaas. This was followed by a visit to the tomb of Hazrat Jonahas
shortly after, located in the nearby Nabi Younus Mosque.
The next stop was Bethlehem where Waqifeen
visited the Church of the Nativity. A holy site for Christians, the church gets
its significance for being built over a cave which is commonly believed to be
the location where Hazrat Maryas gave birth to Hazrat Jesusas
and as such, is a place of great importance to Christians (and indeed those of
other faiths) all over the world.
After departing from Bethlehem, the
Waqifeen-e-Nau embarked on a journey to what was perhaps the most significant
destination of the trip to the land of the Prophets, the holy city of Jerusalem.
A place of great significance to adherents of the main Abrahamic religions –
Judaism, Christianity and Islam – Waqifeen-e-Nau first visited the Dome of the
Rock. After offering Zuhr and Asr prayers here, the group moved on to see the
even more historic Al Aqsa Mosque which is situated in the same vicinity.
Nearby, the Waqf-e-Nau also had an opportunity to view a site of religious
significance to the Jews, the Wailing Wall. They also visited the site of where
Hazrat Jesusas was put on the cross. The group was also able to take
in the famous atmosphere of the old city as they walked through the
narrow-cobbled streets of Jerusalem and saw the old town markets brimming with
merchants selling their products and food vendors with enticing displays of
different and colourful cuisines.
On the fourth day, Waqifeen returned to
the West Bank accompanied by the missionary. This time they travelled along the
Jordan border headed for the lowest point on Earth, the famous Dead Sea. On the
way, the group stopped off at a few other interesting destinations such as the
site on the Jordan River where Hazrat Jesusas is alleged to have
been the recipient of the first baptism by John the Baptist. The group was able
to see not only the significance of this sight but also the practice of the
Christians to immerse themselves within the river as tribute to what happened
there many centuries ago. They then travelled to the city of Jericho, which is
recognised as being the oldest continuous inhabited settlement and dates back
more than 10,000 years, and also the Nabi Musa Mosque. Following arrival at
Kalia Beach, Dead Sea, Waqifeen-e-Nau had lunch and then enjoyed a couple of
hours floating in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea and masking themselves in
the mineral rich soil found on the seabed before their journey back to Kababir.
Day five was the final day of sightseeing,
though no less busy. Waqifeen-e-Nau visited a variety of locations which
included; the Church of Annunciation in Nazareth, where Hazrat Maryas
received the revelation from God regarding Hazrat Jesusas; Tiberias,
where many Christians believe Jesusas performed the miracle of
walking on water. Additionally, Waqifeen-e-Nau also had the opportunity to
visit a bee farm owned by an Ahmadi brother in the beautiful area of the Golan
Heights. The farm, hidden deep within the towering mountains that border
Palestine and Syria and shadowed by the Sea of Galilee was a place where they
gained a wealth of knowledge on the lives, and importance of bees and how they
can relate this to their everyday life and the work they do for the Jamaat. The
honey bee taught them the beautiful lesson of obedience to Khilafat. They also
had an opportunity to purchase a variety of authentic honey products. Finally,
before departing for Kababir for the last time, the group made a visit to the
coastal town of Akko, famous for its coastal beauty, its links to countless
civilisations of the world and its crushing victory against the invasion of
Napoleon Bonaparte’s army.
On the last day of the trip, as it was a
Friday, the group offered the Jumuah prayer and listened to Huzoor’saa
sermon which was broadcast live from the UK.
This was followed by a delicious lunch
that served roast chicken, a group picture with Amir Sahib and a last chance
for Waqifeen to exchange farewells with the Kababir Jamaat and thank them for
their truly amazing and tireless hospitality and care.
Waqifeen-e-Nau
departed from Tel Aviv for Luton at approximately 11pm on 14 June 2019 and
arrived at Islamabad, Tilford at Fajr time. This marked the end of a most
exceptional, historic and inspirational trip, Alhamdollilah.
Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, USA, 12-14 July: On Thursday, 11 July 2019, the
inspection for the 71st Jalsa Salana USA officially began.
This year’s Jalsa Salana was held at the
Farm Show Complex, located in the heart of Harrisburg, the capital city of the
state of Pennsylvania.
The Jalsa inspection began at 7:40pm with
Amir Jamaat USA, Sahibzada Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib passing through the
security gates.
After the initial security inspection and
visit to various departments, Amir Sahib addressed the volunteers of Jalsa
Salana USA.
Recitation of the Holy Quran was presented
by Imam Faheem Arshad Sahib of Phoenix, Arizona, after which Amir Sahib
addressed the volunteers of this year’s Jalsa.
In his remarks, Amir Sahib reminded the
volunteers:
“Every year, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih, may
Allah be his Helper, addresses the volunteers of Jalsa and reminds them of
their responsibilities. Those are the real guidelines for us all to abide by.
We should all remember that each and every guest at the Jalsa Salana is in
reality the guest of the Promised Messiahas and as such, must be treated with the utmost respect
that they rightfully deserve.
“It was observed that some volunteers lost
their temper in previous years while on duty. This is not an acceptable
behaviour. We must never lose our temper, come what may. Similarly, the badges
that we all wear should serve as a constant reminder that we are servants of
the Jamaat and must obey the nizam while treating everyone alike with kindness and
compassion.
“Keep an observant eye on your surroundings
as that is the best form of security. Huzoor-e-Anwaraa has time and again reminded us that those who are on
duty must offer their prayers in congregation. If someone is unable to offer the
prayers with the main congregation, then they must offer it in congregation
with other such volunteers later on.”
Then addressing the Ziafat (kitchen)
needs, Amir Sahib said:
“In previous years, our Ziafat department
has had food shortage due to which not all the guests at Jalsa Salana were
served. Ziafat department should do their best to address this issue so that
food is prepared in enough quantities so that every single guest of the
Promised Messiahas is served in the
best possible manner.”
At the end, Amir sahib led everyone in
silent prayer.
Around 500 volunteers, including men,
women and children were present at the Jalsa Salana inspection.
99 years ago, when Hazrat Mufti Muhammad
Sadiqra was not permitted
to enter the country upon his arrival in the USA, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra addressed the Jamaat and stated:
“America, which claims to be a world power,
has only faced worldly powers until now and has defeated them. However, it has
not faced a religious power until today. If it ever faces this community, it
will realise that it cannot defeat us because God is with us … It is our hope
that one day in America, the sound of “La ilaha illallahu
Muhammadur-Rasulullah” will most definitely echo”. [Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat,
Vol. 4, pp. 250-251]
Alhamdolillah, a
testament to that historic day once again dawned on us on a beautiful Friday
morning in Harrisburg, USA. Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA celebrated its 71st historic
Jalsa Salana.
This momentous day began with the
observance of Tahajud prayer followed by Fajr at the Hadi Mosque in Harrisburg
along with all the hotels where guests of the Promised Messiahas
stayed this year. Then, a few hours later, the live Friday Sermon of Hazrat
Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa was listened to and soon after, everyone started
making their way to the Jalsa Gah.
This year’s Jalsa Salana had an amazing
pictorial exhibition on Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya in Islam, capturing the history of
Khilafat and the various visits by Khulafa to the United States over the span
of several decades. Similarly, a book store, a tabligh booth with its own
exhibition, multiple booths for The Review of Religions magazine, a Humanity First exhibition, multiple food halls
and multiple bazaars were also set up for the guests of the
Promised Messiahas.
At 12pm, lunch was served to the guests of
this year’s Jalsa Salana USA. At 2pm sharp, Azhar Hanif Sahib, Naib Amir and
Missionary In-charge USA, presented the Friday Sermon based on the one of 1
January 1988 by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh highlighting the significance of Friday prayers in
Islam and comparing it with the institution of Sabbath in Judeo-Christian
scriptures. He mentioned the great service that the Promised Messiahas had rendered for the Muslim Ummah by petitioning the
British government to grant Muslims a partial leave on Fridays so that they
could participate in the Friday prayers.
At 4:10pm, the flag hoisting
ceremony took place at the entrance of the main Jalsa Gah, where the
Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat (flag of Ahmadiyyat) was raised high next to the American
flag. This was followed by a short silent prayer. Everyone then proceeded to
the Main Jalsa Gah where the opening session of the 71st Jalsa Salana USA began
promptly at 4:30pm, which was presided by Amir Sahib.
Message from Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa
After
tilawat and nazm, Amir Jamaat USA, Sahibzada Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib read
out the message that Jamaat USA received from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
The
message read:
“Dear members of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat
USA, Assalamo Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu.
“By the grace of Allah, you have been
granted the opportunity of convening another Jalsa Salana. As most of you are
aware, one purpose of holding the Jalsa as has been explained by the Promised
Messiahas is that the
members of the Jamaat should gather together to advance their religious
training and spirituality. Religious and spiritual matters should be the
subjects of the Jalsa so those attending may develop a closer relationship with Allah and endeavour
to increase in their spiritual status.
“Similarly, another objective of the Jalsa
is to promote love, affection, unity and compassion with the Jamaat. So, you
should strive to adopt these values much more than before. Always remember and
adhere to these principles.
“Further, the purpose of the advent of the
Promised Messiahas was to teach us
that by fulfilling the obligations due to Allah, we would increase in piety. We
are also required to fulfil the rights owed to others by following the
commandments of Allah, that is to behave lovingly and with affection and
cultivate better relationships with each other. Therefore, adhering to the
teachings of the Promised Messiahas will prove a source of blessings for you in your
tasks. Whereas such actions will be beneficial for your tarbiyat and keep you
aright in your affairs, they will also prove blessed for you in your tabligh
work and you will be able to convey the message in the best manner.
“Another point you should always remember
is that irrespective whether you are implementing a tabligh programme or a
tarbiyat activity, or you are striving to improve your personal character, your
efforts cannot succeed until you develop khashyatullah that is the fear of Allah. Once this is firmly
established within you, you will then witness how Allah blesses your work and
your efforts.
“Your every endeavour should be independent
of personal gain. The office-bearers are expected to fulfil their responsibilities
by considering the service of Islam as a blessing.
“This year in the Jamaat elections, some
new and some serving office-bearers have been given the opportunity to serve
the Jamaat. It is now your responsibility that you direct even more attention
towards the service of religion. You are to forge ahead along and together with
the other members of the Jamaat.
“Similarly, the members of the Jamaat
should realise that they are expected to dispel all thought of personal
interest and offer their service purely for the sake of Allah, and in complete
obedience to Nizam-e-Jamaat. As the relationship between the office-bearers and
the general members of the Jamaat develops, your work will be blessed and you
will be enabled to express your attachment to Khilafat genuinely with your
hearts, and thereby you will be able to fulfil your pledge. If this is not the
case, then your statements are empty words.
“In this age, Allah has favoured us with
the divine institution of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya and so to fulfil our obligations
towards Khilafat, it is incumbent on the office-bearers and all other members
of the Jamaat that they should deal with each other affectionately and with
love, and by cooperating with one another; they should become of those who
strive for the success of the Jamaat. When all of you join and work together,
then you will be considered among those who have truly entered the Jamaat of
the Promised Messiahas and are most
rightly fulfilling the obligations of your Bai‘at.
“Allah Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas as the Imam of this age and servant of the Holy
Prophet Muhammadsa. Only
if we follow the teachings of the Promised Messiahas with sincere hearts and fulfil the requirements of our Bai‘at,
can we consider ourselves to have fully exhibited our total allegiance to the
Holy Prophetsa and his
commandments. May Allah enable you to do so. Amin.
“Yours Sincerely, [signed] Mirza Masroor
Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V”
This was followed by the first speech of
the day’s session on the topic of “Al-Wali – the True Friend and Protector of
Believers” presented by Omar Shaheed Sahib. In this speech, various anecdotes
were mentioned that showed how Allah helps and protects those who truly believe
in Him with all their heart and keep Allah as their ultimate friend.
Next was another exhilarating speech on the topic of “Tazkirat-ul-Auliya – Narrations and Noble Qualities of the Friends of God” by Rizwan Khan Sahib. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra had mentioned that the “Companions had an ishqiyya [loving] temperament whereas the youth of today only have a philosophical temperament”. The speaker then illustrated various faith inspiring incidents from the lives of the blessed Companionsra and tabi‘een of the Holy Prophetsa as well as from the lives of the Companionsra of the Promised Messiahas exemplifying their expressions of love for these blessed personages.
The third and the final speech of the day
was presented by Dr Waseem Sayed Sahib on the topic of “The Tenth Condition of
Bai‘at – Our Matchless Bond of Love With Khilafat”. Outlining the true purpose
of our Bai‘at, the speaker quoted the Promised Messiahas where he stated that the system of Bai‘at had been instituted solely with the purpose of
bringing together a large group of righteous people who should cast their own
virtuous influence upon the world. The
speech highlighted many practical examples through which an Ahmadi Muslim can
enhance their relationship with Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.
The first day of Jalsa Salana USA ended
with dinner, after which Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered in congregation.
Courtesy of Al Islam
Day 2 of Jalsa Salana USA began with
congregational Tahajud prayer followed by Fajr Salat and a brief dars at the
Jalsa Gah and various hotels where the guests of the Promised Messiahas stayed.
Prior to the morning session, fresh and
warm breakfast was served at the Ziafat halls at the Jalsa Gah.
The morning session was presided by Naib
Amir Dr Hameedur Rahman Sahib, which began with a beautiful recitation of the
Holy Quran and a nazm of the Promised Messiahas. After this, the
first speech of the day was presented in Urdu by Haris Raja Sahib on the topic
of “Survival of the Fittest – Living in the West Without Losing Faith”.
Raja Sahib quoted Hazrat Khalifatul Masih
Ira where he said that
the biggest problem of this day and age is materialism and this is why the Imam
of our Jamaat, the Promised Messiahas added the proclamation, “I will give precedence to my faith over worldly
matters”. After this, Raja
Sahib shared many anecdotes from the stories of prophets from the Holy Quran.
Raja Sahib also shared
many faith-inspiring incidents from the lives of Ahmadi Muslims who are new to
the USA but have not given up on their religious values and are being blessed
by Allah in every sense of the word.
The second speech of the morning session
was on “Our ‘Ilah’ is One! – Demolishing Inner Idols That Hinder Sincere
Belief”. This speech was presented by Sahibzada Usman Latif Sahib. He presented
the example of Hazrat Sahibzada Abdul Latif Sahib Shaheedra who laid down his life in order to set the example of
true belief in Allah in this day and age.
The following speech was on the topic of
“The Modesty and Humility of Our Messengersa – How to Avoid Immoral Societal Trends”. This speech was presented by Abdul Hai Thomas Sahib
who shared a detailed contrast between the concept of haya (modesty) and riya (showing off). He presented many faith inspiring
incidents from the life of the Holy Prophetsa where his modesty prevailed over the societal ills.
The blessed model of the Holy Prophetsa serves as a citadel of refuge for us in dire
times when society is ridden with myriads of spiritual ills.
The final speech of the morning session
was presented by Imam Mahmood Kauser Sahib on “The Critical Need of Life Devotees
to Spread the Light of Islam”. Imam Kauser presented the life of Hazrat Musabra bin Umair, the first life devotee for the sake of
Islam. He shared many incidents from the lives of life devotees of the past and
present who are known as stalwarts of Islam Ahmadiyyat. At the end, he shared
the dire need that Islam Ahmadiyyat requires in this day and age from all of us
and that is to come forward and present ourselves for the ultimate sacrifice to
dedicate our entire lives for the sake of propagating our faith.
At the end of the morning session,
Humanity First USA recognised some of its volunteers for exceptional services
that they had rendered in the service of humanity via different projects under
the Humanity First USA flagship.
The session concluded with lunch break
followed by Zuhr and Asar prayers in congregation.
A special lunch with Amir Jamaat USA,
Sahibzada Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib was prepared for the dignitaries that
had come to this year’s Jalsa USA. The notables included US congresswoman Norma
Torres (D-California), Kurt J Werthmuller (Policy Analyst), US Commission on
International Religious Freedom Blake Strayhorn, President Habitat for Humanity
Durham Sue Henderson, Vice President of US & Canada, Habitat for Humanity
International Hon Neftaly Aldana Herrera, Judge of Constitutional Court of
Guatemala, Siddique Abou Bakr Wai (Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the US), Craig
Considine (author and professor of sociology), Rice University Representative
Andrew Lewis, Member Pennsylvania House of Representatives Bob DeSousa,
Representative from Office of US Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa) and Rushan Abbas
(Executive Director Campaign for Uyghurs).
After Zuhr and Asr, lunch was served to
the guests of the Promised Messiahas. The afternoon session started
at 3:45pm and was presided by Naib Amir Dr Nasim Rehmatullah Sahib. In this
session, there were two speeches; the first was presented by Mujeeb Ijaz Sahib
on the topic of “Service to Humanity – A Fundamental Form of Divine Worship”
and the second speech was presented by Rasheed Reno Sahib on the subject of
“Compassion in a Time of Crisis”.
The Ahmadiyya Community of USA presented its annual Humanitarian Award to two awardees this year. The first was Blake Strayhorn, President and Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity of Durham. The second recipient was Congresswoman Norma Torres of California for her underlying commitment to protect the rights of immigrant communities, especially those fleeing from violence and persecution. In her acceptance speech, she commented:
“I want every immigrant to have the
experience I had; to be welcomed into a loving community. I am so honoured to
be here. I am grateful for this award and our friendship”.
Another guest speaker, Hon Judge Neftaly
Aldana Herrera of Guatemala, said:
“I want to express my gratitude to this
community for its commitment to serve humanity and create bonds based on love
and peace and humanity. Nasir Hospital (Guatemala) is a hope for our
community”.
Miss Rushan Abbas, the Executive Director
for the campaign for Uyghurs said:
“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has given
us the most precious gift: the light of hope”.
Special messages were received and
presented at Jalsa Salana from Tom Wolf (Governor of Pennsylvania), Bob Casey
(US Senator, D-Pa) and Eric Papensfuse (Mayor of Harrisburg).
After the evening session ended, a special
dinner was organised for tabligh guests which was presided by Amir Sahib along
with Missionary In-charge Azhar Hanif Sahib. Various new converts to Islam
Ahmadiyyat presented their motivating stories of how and what led to their
conversion to Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam.
One young new convert in the gathering was
Alejandro Pino of Puerto Rico, who said, “I was in a spiritual search for
something to satisfy my soul which I ended up finding in Ahmadiyyat, the true
Islam”.
A question and answer session was also
held with tabligh guests and new converts where Azhar Hanif Sahib and Amir
Sahib answered many questions from members of the audience. Azhar Hanif Sahib
said, “Faith is part of the human family, our history, our daily experiences …
We are blessed to have prophets to guide us to God”.
The special dinner ended with Amir Sahib
reading an excerpt from the writings of the Promised Messiahas on how to avoid sin and attain nearness to God,
followed by silent prayer.
The second day of Jalsa Salana USA ended
with Maghrib and Isha prayers at 8:40pm.
Day 3 of Jalsa Salana USA also began with
congregational Tahajud prayer followed by Fajr Salat and dars. Breakfast was
served to the guests of Jalsa after which the closing session of the Jalsa
began at 10am.
The closing session was presided by Amir
Jamaat USA, Sahibzada Dr Mirza Maghfoor Ahmad Sahib. The session began with
tilawat of the Holy Quran by Salman Tariq Sahib and the recitation of a nazm
written by the Promised Messiahas by Bilal Raja Sahib.
The award for the best Majlis of
Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya was announced thereafter. This year the “Alam-e-Inami”
went to the South Virginia Majlis where Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa recently inaugurated the newly acquired Masroor Mosque
in 2018.
Next on the agenda were the educational
awards for the men’s side who, over the course this past year, acquired
exceptional excellences in various educational fields. The same awards ceremony
had taken place the day before on the ladies’ side for the ladies of the
Jamaat.
After the announcement of educational
awards, the first speech of the closing session was presented by Dr Bilal Rana
Sahib, National Secretary Umur-e-Ama on the subject of “A Crumbling Tradition –
The Benefits and Blessings of Marrying While Young”. Dr Rana spoke about the
ill effects of not marrying early in this day and age. He presented statistics
to show that early marriage solidifies the bond of love between couples as they
stick together through thick and thin.
The second speech was on “From a Single
Soul – Islam’s Response to the Rise of Racism” by Nasirullah Ahmad Sahib,
National Secretary Waqf-e-Jadid. Nasirullah Ahmad Sahib discussed the history
behind the racial and systematic oppression that the African American community
has endured over the span of many centuries. Nasirullah Sahib further
elaborated that systematic racism is still ongoing in America and the only way
out of it is to adopt the pious teachings of the true Islam.
Next was another faith-inspiring speech on
the subject of “Loyalty to the Messengersa or Love of the World” by
Naib Amir and National Tarbiyat Secretary, Dr Faheem Younus Qureshi Sahib. In
his speech, Naib Amir Sahib mentioned the incident of the Battle of Uhud and
the unmatched loyalty and bravery of Hazrat Abdullahra bin Jubayr who obeyed the command of the Holy Prophetsa even when 40 of his fellow archers left their critical
positions. He further mentioned that although Hazrat Abdullahra bin Jubayr was martyred by the disbelievers, he did not
die, rather he transcends in every era and that we need to become like Hazrat
Abdullahra bin Jubayr who
gave up his life and never disobeyed the Holy Prophetsa even for a single moment.
The last speech of the Jalsa Salana USA
was by Missionary In-charge and Naib Amir, Azhar Hanif Sahib on the topic of
“Zikr-e-Habib: Befriended by God as if One Chord of Two Bows”. Azhar Hanif
Sahib mentioned that those who are friends of Allah are dear to Him and He
blesses them in such a way that when they say something, Allah readily accepts
their prayers and at times, certain actions are performed by them that serve as
miracles and prophetic in nature. But among all such friends of Allah from
among the prophets and otherwise, the one who enjoyed the highest and closest level
of friendship with Allah was none other than the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa.
Azhar Hanif Sahib shared many examples from the life of the Holy Prophetsa to show his close relationship with Allah the Almighty.
The Jalsa Salana came to its conclusion
with the concluding remarks by Amir Sahib in which he mentioned that this
year’s Jalsa Salana USA began with the message from Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa which was read out to the audience. Amir Sahib then
mentioned that the real test began now for everyone. We ought to not just
remember what Huzooraa mentioned in his message, Amir Sahib added, but we
must also act upon these words of our beloved.
Amir Sahib presented a detailed analysis
of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya USA and expressed his concern for the wellbeing of the
youth specifically and everyone else in general. Amir Sahib shared the
expectations the Promised Messiahas had of members of his Jamaat and urged everyone to pay
heed to his teachings.
Towards the end, Amir Sahib asked everyone
to introspect and make the firm pledge to walk the path of righteousness. Amir
Sahib then led everyone in silent prayer.
The
total attendance at this year’s Jalsa Salana, by the sheer grace and mercy of
Allah, was 9,294, Alhamdolillah. Jalsa Salana USA ended on Sunday,
14 July with Zuhr and Asr prayers at 1:15pm.
Hazrat Anas bin Malik, Allah be pleased with him, narrates that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:
“Whoever prays like us and faces our Qibla and eats our slaughtered animals is a Muslim and is under Allah’s and His Prophet’s protection. So do not betray Allah by betraying those who are in His protection.”
As for the place of the Promised Messiah’s advent, it ought to be remembered that the emergence of the Anti-Christ has been foretold to take place from the East and this refers to our country. The author of Hujaj-ul-Kiramah writes that the disorder of the Anti-Christ is manifesting itself in India. And it is obvious that the Messiah must also appear in the same place that the Anti-Christ emerges. Then, it is narrated that the Messiah will appear in the village of Qad‘ah, which is short for “Qadian”. It is possible that in Yemen a village by this name exists, but one ought to remember that Yemen is not to the east of Hijaz, it is to the south. In fact, there is another Qadian, in the Punjab near Ludhiana as well.
Furthermore, the name given to me by divine destiny and decree is also a subtle indication to this very fact. The numerical value of the letters in “Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani” equal 1300 exactly. In other words, the Imam whose name this is, was to come at the start of the fourteenth century. Hence, it is to this fact that the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, alluded.
(Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, Malfuzat, Vol. 1, p. 50)
On 3 July 2019, 23 older students from Ilkley (West Yorkshire) of the University of The Third Age visited the Al Mahdi Mosque, Bradford to learn about Islam Ahmadiyyat.
University of the Third Age is a learning co-operative of retired or semi-retired people, which enables members to share many educational, creative and leisure activities. A variety of subjects are available for study and the Ilkley U3A Group has a particular interest in the study of world religions.
On arrival, the U3A guests were given a tour of the Al Mahdi Mosque and the open exhibition in the mosque. As the Ilkley Group was predominantly made up of women, they spent the first 20 minutes talking to Lajna members in the ladies prayer hall.
Once the group had reconvened in the mosque, Dr Iqbal and Regional Missionary Mubarak Ahmed Basra Sahib provided a brief introduction to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. The guests were then shown the full address of Hazrat Amirul Momineen Khalifatul Masih Vaa delivered at the 2019 Peace Symposium. The guests were deeply impressed by this comprehensive address.
Following this, a question and answer session was arranged where many interesting topics came up such as the five pillars of Islam, the total sects in Islam, why a negative image of Islam is seen all the time etc.
All the guests were given copies of Huzoor’saa book World Crisis and the Pathway to Peace and the programme ended with an excellent meal. The U3A guests were very pleased with the visit and they were keen to invite our members to Ilkley for a follow-up meeting, Alhamdolillah.
21
July 1916: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
delivered a Friday Sermon on the acceptance of prayers. Huzoorra
continued this vast topic in his next Friday Sermon.
21
July 1938: While studying in England, Hazrat Mirza
Nasir Ahmadrh departed for Egypt. He reached his destination on 28
July.
21
July 1957: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
delivered a historic address on the eve of Jalsa Salana 1956 about Khilafat and
contemporary conspiracies with the aim to spread false information about this divine
institution for the Muslim Ummah. On this date, a written exam was conducted
about the points raised in the above-mentioned speech. Records show that 2,746
men and women took part in this important assessment. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
distributed prizes amongst the highest performers.
22
July 1924: As the ship Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
had boarded en route to Europe approached the port of Aden, on this date Huzoorra
composed a heart touching message addressing Jamaat members.
22
July 1927: Disturbances and prevailing unrest due to
the wide circulation of unwarranted articles and defaming publications against
Islam and its Holy Foundersa have been discussed previously in this
series. On this date, the Muslims of India held peaceful processions on the
call of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to record their anger and displeasure
upon the court verdict about Syed Dilawar Shah. This produced a unique example
of national and mutual unity amongst the Muslims of that era. Moreover, a
memorandum was prepared with the aim of conveying the sentiments of citizens to
concerned authorities. Amazingly, this written petition bore signatures of
nearly half a million Muslims of the Indian subcontinent.
22
July 1947: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was
engaged in a journey towards Lahore where, under Sir Cyril Redcliff, a
commission’s proceedings were underway for the demarcation of boundaries
between two would-be countries i.e. India and Pakistan. Earlier, Huzoorra
was receiving regular briefings about the unfolding events of the partition and
now, in Lahore, he himself watched the session.
Hazrat
Musleh-e-Maudra showed great concern about this entire episode and
his vision and foresight had prompted him to arrange precautionary measures on
large scale for this upcoming, unprecedented and frightening situation for
millions of Muslims. Huzoorra remained in Lahore until the end of
July.
23
July 1933: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra called
the attention of members of the Jamaat that for learning the Urdu language,
deriving benefit from the books written by the Promised Messiahas
was best and most efficient mode.
23
July 1936: A weekly paper commenced its publication
and circulation from Nairobi, Kenya under the supervision of Malik Ahmad
Hussain Sahib.
23
July 1938: Two Christian missionaries from Spain and
Belgium reached Qadian and had the honour of having audience with Hazrat
Musleh-e-Maudra.
24
July 1910: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira
journeyed towards the city of Multan so he could record his witness in a law
case in a government court. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira appointed
Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra as the amir in his absence
from Qadian. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira arrived back in Qadian on
26 July.
24
July 1953: Hazrat Sheikh Nayaz Muhammad passed away.
He was a police inspector in Gujranwala. He accepted Ahmadiyyat in 1907. He was
the son of the very police officer who conducted the search of the Promised
Messiah’sas house in Qadian after the murder of Pandit Lekh Ram.
24
July 1959: Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Indonesia conducted
its 10th Jalsa Salana, attended by 1,250 men and women.
25
July 1912: Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira
laid the foundation stone of a new building for Talim-ul-Islam High School in
Qadian.
25
July 1913: Hazrat Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sayalra
reached England. He was appointed and sent there as a missionary by Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih Ira.
25
July 1924: Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was an
ardent lover of the Holy Founder of Islam, his Master, Prophet Muhammad, peace
and blessings of Allah be on him. On this day, while traveling to Europe, when
his ship approached the coast near Mecca, Huzoorra ascertained that
his ship was cruising directly towards Baitullah in Mecca. Upon this blessed
occasion, Huzoorra offered two rak‘at [units of prayer] of
voluntary prayer in congregation with his entourage. During this time, Huzoorra
remained engaged in fervent prayers.
25
July 1947: The Redcliff Line has been mentioned earlier;
on this date, the Ahmadiyya Jamaat’s views were presented before the members of
the boundary commission by Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Sahib. 25 to 31 July was fixed
by the commission for the Muslim League to record their case.
25
July 1956: The Ahmadiyya Khilafat has been targeted
by opponents since the first day, but on every occasion, the world witnesses
God’s hand working to help and protect Khilafat and the Khalifatul Masih. In
1956, a similar conspiracy was hatched with the help of a man named Allah Rakha
and his team. On this date, Al Fazl published a strong and resilient
message of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to counter this plot. A series of
messages by Huzoorra would be published in Al Fazl in the
days to come (28, 30 and 31 July).
In the mid-morning of 6 July 2019, people from around Magele came to witness an interfaith dialogue with the theme “Religious Tolerance and National Peace – Our Collective Obligation”. Though the attendance was less than expected, the event was a huge success.
The Local President of the Jamaat, Tahir Dlamini Sahib opened the proceedings with the welcome address and silent prayer.
The resident Missionary Abbas Bin Suleman, briefing the participants on what interfaith dialogue was all about, said that dialogue between different faiths begins when people meet each other without judgment and when misunderstanding is replaced with trust. He added that there was mistrust and suspicion and the best way to remove that from among faith-based organisations was through healthy interfaith dialogue. He encouraged all stakeholders to consider very seriously such events so as to foster peace and harmony leading to progress and development in our communities.
Speakers took turns to give their heartfelt speeches concerning the theme of the day, “Religious Tolerance and National Peace, Our Collective Obligation”.
Mr Ntokozo Salim Dlamini, who is a member of our Jamaat and also a prince of the area, spoke on behalf of the Royal Kraal and gave a good and excellent account on the gathering and theme. He mentioned that elders of the royalty are very happy to see various members of the Magele community coming to witness and hear for themselves what is meant by religious tolerance and national peace and the collective effort in ensuring that. He called on the people of the Magele community to work together with the Jamaat for the benefit of themselves.
On behalf of the chairman and the member of parliament, the councilor highlighted that he was very happy to be part of the invited guests. He was thankful to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for granting their request for a water tank and for which the Jamaat responded by donating a 5,000-litre water tank to the Royal Kraal. He stated that these actions indeed reflected the motto: “Love for all, hatred for none”.
The councilor is also a pastor and speaking on behalf of his church, submitted that he admired this bold initiative and said his church was looking forward to working with our Jamaat for the general good of the Swazi people. He mentioned the words of the Khalifa on the banners we displayed which read, “Rather than erecting walls that will keep us apart, we should build bridges that bring us closer together”. Thus, he encouraged everyone to respond to the statement by building bridges that brings us together.
The event was brought to a close with a prayer led by the councilor and pastor at 1pm, Alhamdolillah!
