After Hazrat Amirul Momineen’saa arrival in Tahir Hall, Baitul Futuh at around 13:07 local time, the concluding session of the National UK Majlis-e-Shura commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and its translation.
Thereafter, Huzooraa took to the rostrum and addressed the national Shura.
After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa said that he was confident that all members of the Shura, in their individual capacities, will have taken full part in the proceedings of the Shura.
Huzooraa said that initially, some of the members will have given suggestions in their respective subcommittees, and after having discussed them, they will have been presented to the full house.
Huzooraa said that in the concluding session, he would elaborate on the responsibilities of Shura members in light of a speech given by Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Musleh-e-Maudra, in a Majlis-e-Shura.
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said that Shura members should inculcate the fear of Allah in them. No matter how eloquent or well-spoken a person is, this cannot be a criterion for their success in life. True success and victory in this life and the Hereafter demands that we live our lives with the belief that our lord is Allah.
“Our Lord, we have heard a Crier calling [us] unto faith, ‘Believe ye in your Lord,’ and we have believed. Our Lord, forgive us, therefore, our sins and remove from us our evils, and in death, join us with the righteous us.” (Surah Al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.194)
With this, Huzooraa said that we Ahmadi Muslims should endeavour to live our lives in this way with true righteousness. If we do not, then we should ask ourselves what our worth is.
Today, when our Jamaat has millions of members across the world, the truth remains that we represent a very small proportion of the world’s Muslims. Our Jamaat’s population is, in contrast, a mere drop in the ocean. Our Jamaat is, thus, seemingly insignificant.
However, there is one thing that we can take pride in; that we have heard the cry of a caller and that we listen, and we obey. This is our true value and a great blessing that should remain at the forefront of our minds. It should remain embedded in our hearts at all times.
As members of the community of the Promised Messiahas, Huzooraa said that our views and opinions and beliefs should be rooted in the fear of Allah the Almighty.
The fear of Allah should take precedence in every sphere of our lives. Thus, every decision we make in our lives should be made with the fear of Allah.
If, in the world today, people perceive our truth and significance, it is only due to the fact that we are a united community that stands together in all circumstances at the hand of Khalifatul Masih. They attest to the fact that we live our lives according to the true teachings of Islam, that are peace, love and humanity. We are the group that preaches the true Islam as taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Many people, as a result of this, are drawn to the Jamaat each year.
Thus, all Shura members have an immense responsibility on their shoulders.
Another profound point made by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was that if a person makes a wrong decision, it would not be detrimental to the Jamaat so long as a person made it with the best intention and fear of Allah. On the contrary, if a person makes a good decision and they do not have the true fear of Allah in their hearts, it will lead to harmful and negative consequences. If we make an error of judgement whilst having the fear of Allah in our hearts, Allah will rectify the mistake Himself. Through His grace and mercy, He will forgive us and lead us towards success.
Huzooraa said that some people may query this statement as to how a correct decision can lead to harm or a negative decision can have positive results. In answer to this, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said that once the Holy Prophetsa saw in a dream that he was performing the tawaf [circuit] of the Holy Ka‘bah and thus, he set out for the Holy Ka‘bah. This was not done for any personal benefit or to increase his own personal influence among people. The Holy Prophetsa did this with the best of intentions, yet as it was not the decree of Allah, it was an innocent mistake. The decision was made with the complete fear of Allah. As a consequence, in Chapter 48, verse 2 of the Holy Quran, Allah the Almighty states:
اِنَّا فَتَحْنَا لَکَ فَتْحًا مُّبِیْنًا
“Verily, We have granted thee a clear victory.”
Allah the Almighty stated that instead of causing harm, this decision would result in the progress of Islam. Through this, the entire world saw how the innocent mistake foreshadowed a glorious victory of Islam.
At the Battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophetsa stationed a group of Muslims at a certain place, he instructed them that they were not to leave their assigned posts under any circumstances. However, when the enemies of Islam were in a state of defeat and retreat, the Muslims disregarded the instruction of the Holy Prophetsa and left their posts. True obedience, however, required that they followed the instruction, no matter the circumstances. Thus, the victory of Muslims turned into the defeat of Muslims.
Courtesy of AMA UK
Huzooraa said that he wished to remind each member of the Shura that they must always remain true to themselves and Allah at all times. The members should be ever ready to live their lives for the sake of the cause of Islam and they should never be motivated to desire the praise of others. For instance, when giving Chanda or giving other financial sacrifices, they must ensure that it is done for the sake of Allah and not to impress others.
The work of a spiritual community is far greater than worldly companies. The goals of a worldly company are limited and remain focused on limited areas. However, if the Promised Messiahas or his Khulafa had followed such worldly goals, our tabligh would have stopped long ago. For example, if it was ever decided that funds could only be used in the area they were raised, then success would never have been seen in the Jamaat.
If it was decided that we should stop building mosques in order to save money, then we would see that our spiritual success would come to a halt and we would no longer witness the blessings of Allah the Almighty.
The national budget should be drawn in a way that enables the work of the Jamaat to be fulfilled. Above all else, before allocating resources and making plans, the fear of Allah should be at the centre of our minds. If plans are made with the fear of Allah and according to the desire of Khalifatul Masih, then we will be successful. The budget should be used to help all needy people. If we look at the budget, however, one marvels on how this can be possible.
The Jamaat’s budget is different to worldly organisations. Where worldly groups gather huge sums of money, the Jamaat is able to achieve huge tasks with minimal resources.
Huzooraa added that Shura members should set the best example for people to follow. Only when this has been achieved can others be inspired to better their examples, increase in financial sacrifice and offer time for the Jamaat.
Shura members should recognise that their duties do not end after walking out of this hall but remain throughout the year. As Shura members, it is an obligation to remind members of the Jamaat about the importance of financial sacrifice so that the tasks of the Jamaat can be achieved.
Courtesy of AMA UK
Members of the Shura must remember that our opponents are taking all possible measures to impede the growth and success of the Jamaat. Around the world, schemes are being hatched to achieve this. Despite their cruel and unjust endeavours, Allah grants us unending success.
Many of the members migrated here from abroad, while others were born and raised here. Allah has, in any case, granted everyone the opportunity to represent their respective Jamaats at the Shura. It is up to the members, Huzooraa said, that they prove not only as representatives in name but through their conduct and righteous examples too.
A true Shura member is he who talks truthfully and sincerely for the betterment of the Jamaat.
Another element of fulfilling the duties of representing the Jamaat is to be a righteous example for members of their respective localities and encourage them to take part in Jamaat events and activities.
At the end, Huzooraa reiterated the fact that the duty of all representatives would continue throughout the year and if the decisions of the Shura were approved by Huzooraa, then every effort must be made to fulfil these decisions and others should be motivated to do so.
Huzooraa prayed toward the end that the fear of Allah remains firmly ingrained in the hearts of members of the Shura and that they strive to fulfil their obligations as members of Majlis-e-Shura.
Thereafter, Huzooraa led the congregation in dua, after which group photos were taken with the delegates.
Huzooraa then proceeded to examine the construction work of the new complex at Baitul Futuh, after which he led congregational prayer at Baitul Futuh Mosque.
14 June, London: After leading the Friday prayer at the Baitul Futuh Mosque, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa launched the new Al Taqwa website and the new Al Fazl International app and website.
Though Al Taqwa – the first Arabic magazine of the Jamaat – has been in publication for a long time, it was realised that its outreach and readership could be further facilitated. Therefore, Huzooraa gave the magazine the task of digitising every article in its archive in a blog format which would increase access.
By the grace of Allah the new website has been launched as www.altaqwa.netand contains a treasure trove of articles for the Arabic speaking world.
Abada Barbouche Sahib – Editor in Chief of Al Taqwa – stated:
“I am confident there will be a lot of Arabs coming towards the Jamaat through this website Insha-Allah. And this is really another demonstration of the truth of Hazrat Masih-e-Maudas.”
This was followed by the launch of the new Al Fazl International app and revamped website. Al Fazl International was launched in 1994 as a means of reading the words of the Khalifa of the time and is a central Urdu newspaper of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community having its roots established over a hundred years ago by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.
The new app features individual articles in blog format as well as previous issues of the newspaper with the updated website – www.alfazl.com – adopting a similar style. The app is available on iOS and Android devices.
Hafiz Muhammad Zafrullah Aajiz Sahib – Editor in Chief Al Fazl International – said:
“Whenever Huzooraa guides on anything and takes interest in anything it automatically brings blessings of Allah the Almighty. At the same time, Huzooraa has a vision and it is a very wide and vast vision; the vision of Huzooraa is to serve mankind and to take the message of the Promised Messiahas across to the whole world.”
Hafiz Zafrullah Sahib told Al Hakam that the first issue of Al Fazl International was published in the month of June over a hundred years ago and when possible dates of the launch were presented to Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa, today’s date was selected by Huzooraa. He also stated that Huzooraa had been encouraging and motivating towards achieving new heights.
After viewing and launching both websites on two separate smart-screen monitors, Huzooraa led a silent prayer before returning to Islamabad.
Nations
are engaged in yet another war, known as the trade war, not only with their
neighbours but with various other countries as well. These rising economic
escalations are resulting in conflicts and disorders throughout the world.
America,
under Trump’s rule, is the leading nation which is involved in a trade war with
China, the EU, Mexico and Canada.
Recently,
America has banned Huawei, a Chinese multinational telecommunication equipment
company, owing to security issues which have caused a great stir across the
globe.
Certain
critics are of the view that these actions would not only undermine global
peace but also have a huge impact on the economy of America on a long term
basis.
Along
these lines, afflicted nations have abandoned America and consented to new
trade agreements with different nations. For instance, the Chinese company
Huawei has signed a deal with a Russian telecoms firm to handle the ban imposed
by the Trump administration. Moreover, they have announced that they have
prepared their own operating system as well.
Meanwhile,
the UK’s Prime Minister Theresa May resigned from party leadership as she was
unable to deliver Brexit and thus lost support of her own members of
parliament. May’s step-down in May has pushed Britain into a tough situation
and leaves behind significantly more deep-rooted divisions than when she became
the prime minister. Now, there is a race for who will be the next leader of the
United Kingdom.
Nations are trying to protect their national interests and complying with beggar-thy-neighbour polices which would result in a chain reaction, leading to great catastrophe. The worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa, considering the present state of affairs, stated:
“In
terms of verbal proclamations, it is very easy to say that ‘Yes we do desire
the best for others’, however in practice, it is much more difficult and
challenging. Wherever there is a conflict of interests, most people tend to
prioritise their own interests and welfare over and beyond the rights of
others.” (Lecture at York University, Toronto, 28 October 2016)
Members
of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community recently gathered in front of the UK
parliament in order to enlighten the British public on the need of justice to
avoid World War III.
Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih Vaa states on another occasion:
“The
severity of the situation is such that a third world war could begin at any
time – in fact, in reality, a third world war has already begun on a small
scale. I have been warning of this for a number of years but only now analysts
and world figures have started to agree.” (Friday Sermon, Baitul Futuh Mosque,
4 December 2015)
World
superpowers and stable countries should sense the turning tides across the
globe and look after the interests of weaker nations in order to sow the seed
of peace and harmony on this planet. Nations should seek to establish justice
even if they have to sacrifice their national gains and welfare.
“Corruption
has appeared on land and sea because of what men’s hands have wrought, that He
may make them taste [the fruit] of some of their doings, so that they may turn
back [from] evil.” (Surah al-Ra‘d, Ch.30: V.42)
Head
lowered like a branch fully laden with ripe fruits, a triumphant ruler rode
upon his horse into a city that had persecuted, shunned and exiled him. Yet he
spoke no harsh word, raised no sword and desired no wealth for his aim had
never been such. Indeed his opponents had suffered a horrible defeat, however,
his true victory was in the fulfillment of a prophecy made long before him as
he “shined forth from mount Paran, and he came with ten thousands of saints.”
(Deutronomy 33:2 [KJV])
In a
mere 10-year period, a nation rose from the ashes of a dead society, a vile and
degenerate world, devoid of all light, akin perhaps to a black hole
obliterating the light of morality and righteousness into its bottomless pit of
nothingness and oblivion. No society bears more striking resemblance to our own
modern global village of moral and spiritual decrepitude, where Satan’s claws
are extended forth clasping upon the throat of morality, virtue and belief,
than this one.
Yet,
such a phenomenon manifested upon the sands of Arabia over 1400 years ago that
the dead became alive, the blind began to see and the deaf began to hear.
Hence, it is entirely befitting that in order to find the lost light and life
amongst the rampant darkness and death in our world, we must turn the dial of
time back, once more, 1400 years. It was upon the sands of Arabia long ago,
that the solution to all evils, ills and vices that have risen again to plague
society at a hitherto unbeknownst intensity and scale was miraculously
manifested by the nurturing and moral training of our master, the Seal of the
Prophets, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.
It is regarding this wonderful miracle that the Promised Messiahas
writes beautifully:
صَادَفْتَھُمْ قَوْمًا کَرَوْثٍ ذِلَّۃً
فَجَعَلْتَھُمْ کَسَبِیْکَۃِ الْعِقْیَانِ
“You
found them to be a group of people who [owing to their sins] were despicable
like dung; But [due to your spiritual power] you transformed them into an ingot
of pure gold.”
It may
not be possible to do justice to this vast topic by attempting to discuss every
moral issue and ill facing our society. It is in fact impossible for human
beings to even comprehend the innumerable ways in which we are forever
increasingly plunging into certain moral and spiritual decays. Hence, it is
only fitting that we should look upon the only One who knows all and sees all,
Allah the Almighty.
Allah,
the Most Gracious, has blessed us by simplifying the whole complicated affair
into three words in the following verse:
“Verily,
Allah requires you to abide by justice, and to treat with grace, and give like
the giving of kin to kin; and forbids indecency, and manifest evil, and
transgression.”(Surah al-Nahl, Ch.16: V.91)
This
verse lucidly defines for us the various aspects of all evil and sin: fahsha
(indecency), munkar (manifest evil) and baghy (transgression).
The Holy Quran also teaches us which steps must be taken in order to combat
the various evils.
Islam
seeks to provide total cure from these ills; hence, it also deals with specific
ills and vices and clarifies for us what our response to them should be and
what their solution is. Furthermore, the greatest quality of Islamic teachings
is that it truly strikes at the root of all problems and solves all issues and
matters by demolishing their root and base. Hence, in order to understand and
find a working, pragmatic method to safeguard against the modern world’s moral
ills, it is imperative to explore all these aspects.
The
Promised Messiahas has explained multiple times that the root of all
sin is a lack of ma‘rifat (deep insight), hence, in order to uproot
evils and vices, we must first gain knowledge and understanding into their true
nature and ill effects on our body and spirit. Once a state of understanding
and recognition is reached regarding any harmful action, we naturally will
avoid this action and any path that leads to it. For example, if we are certain
that cobras inhabit a place, no one would dare even take the path that crosses
this place. Hence, recognition and understanding lies at the root of
safeguarding ourselves from such evils.
Hazrat
Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II and Musleh-e-Maudra
states:
“In
order to safeguard against ill deeds, it is imperative to gain a perfect
recognition of God” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 7, p. 643)
Fahsha are
such indecencies and moral evils as pertain to the individual and their
personal wrongdoings. Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra has explained in Tafsir-e-Kabir
under this verse that in this category fall all ills that may not be
affecting other members of society but may be done in secret and their circle
of influence is the person committing them.
There is
no lack of such shameful immoral actions in our society. In fact, all around
such heinous propaganda to jump into this abyss is apparent as puts any decent
person to shame. This category of moral ills includes all matters related to
sexual misconduct – hyper-sexualisation, premarital and extramarital relations
– and may include other addictions.
Munkar (manifest
evil) points to such evils as not only affect the individual, but rather
negatively affect others as well. Let us first understand the ill effects of
these moral evils on our body and spirit; as Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra
has explained, lack of understanding and true recognition is the mother of
sins.
Recent
studies which have been reproduced time and again show that by the age of 20,
75% of Americans have premarital relations, and by the age of 44, that
percentage jumps to 95%. Among those 25% of Americans who abstained until the
age of 20, 81% were no longer celibate by the age of 44 (Dr Lawrence B Finer, Trends
in Premarital Sex in the United States, 1954–2003 Public Health Reports [2007]
National Centre for Biotechnology Information). Approximately 30-60% of all
married persons in the United States of America had an affair and did not
remain faithful to their partners (Dr David M Buss and Dr Todd K Shackelford,
Susceptibility to Infidelity in the First Year of Marriage, Journal of
Research in Personality [1997]).
Premarital
relations have a strong connection with extra-marital relations because, due to
the culture of dating and breaking-up, they make light of the bond of marriage
which can be broken whenever desired. Hence, the rate of divorce also rises,
which destroys families, and such children as grow up in these broken family
systems often grow up to repeat the same wrongful behaviours, thus beginning
the cycle anew.
Islam
places great importance upon family systems, because they are the building
blocks of a society and the centre for the moral training of future
generations. As these building blocks crumble under the nonchalant, “playful”
and careless behaviour of dating and cheating, it only escalates immorality and
the domino effect of moral destruction keeps claiming one generation after
another. As premarital relations and affairs have risen, so have the divorce
rates naturally risen. It is estimated by some studies that in the earlier 20th
century, the divorce rate was under 5%, however, now studies suggest that in
the United States, divorce rates are as high as 40-50%. (www.politifact.com/new-jersey/statements/2012/feb/20/stephen-sweeney/steve-sweeney-claims-more-two-thirds-marriages-end/)
As far
as pornography is concerned, no statistics are required for this. It is a
disease so rampant that seldom is one safe from it. Simply pondering over the
effects of this evil reveals that it is also directly connected to divorce,
hyper-sexualisation, objectification of women and, worst of all, assault and
violence cases against women. In a study included in Rolling Stone
magazine, in the 1960s it was found that 11% of men and 44% of women were
sexualised, meaning they were purposefully portrayed in an overtly
over-sexualised manner. In the 2000s, the numbers increased to 17% of men being
portrayed in such a manner and an astounding 83% of women (Patricia Donovan,
Study Finds Marked Rise in Intensely Sexualized Images of Women, Not Men, University
at Buffalo News Center [website], 16 September 2018). That is a devastating 55%
increase, how can we imagine that it would be without any ill effects?
All such
immoral behaviors are creating a society which accepts and celebrates lustful
thoughts and behaviors, be that in music, media or entertainment. This in turn
destroys the moral base of society and severs the connection with God Almighty.
Hence, Islam lays stress upon modesty and purity of thoughts. The Holy Quran
calls adultery an abominable sin and forbids it, and striking at the root of
all deeds, it guides regarding stopping the entrance of such thoughts into the
mind. Before instructing women to cover their beauty and not display it, it
states:
“Say to
the believing men that they restrain their looks and guard their private parts.
That is purer for them. Surely, Allah is Well-Aware of what they do.” (Surah
al-Nur, Ch.24: V.31)
However,
we must treat the problem at its grand level, so that a cure can be found which
may be applicable not only in specific situations, rather may be effective
against all issues. Allah the Almighty states in His blessed word:
Recite
that which has been revealed to thee of the Book, and observe Prayer. Surely,
Prayer restrains [one] from indecency and manifest evil, and remembrance of
Allah indeed is the greatest [virtue]. And Allah knows what you do. (Surah
al-Ankabut, Ch.29: V.46)
In the
simplest words, to answer our question of “how to safeguard against ills”, it
is quite clearly stated in the verse quoted above: Salat. Salat is the answer
that God Almighty has given us in order protect ourselves from both indecency
and manifest evil. Hence, it is the most potent cure available to us in order
to combat all forms of moral ills in our society, for these two categories
encompass most of our modern society’s issues.
Some genres of music celebrate immorality and hypersexualisation
For a
cure to be considered worthy of applying to such a massive issue, two things
are necessary in order to testify to its potency and effect: firstly, whether
the source of this cure is reliable and good, and secondly, whether it is
proven to be working? In the case of the first question, the source is the
Almighty and All-knowing God of all the worlds, the Creator and Master of
everything, therefore, we must agree that the source is the best possible one.
To answer the second question, we need only look at a mere 23 years of a once
insignificant deserted peninsula known as Arabia, whose people would rise to
become the leaders and teachers of the entire world, because a man of God
taught them this simple cure. It not only transformed their personal lives but
also their national identity. Where they once drank alcohol like water five
times a day, it was replaced with five daily doses of its cure, and the results
are evident to every person, friend or foe. The Promised Messiahas
states:
“What is
Namaz [Salat]? It is a form of prayer which safeguards a person from all evils
and indecencies, making them worthy of goodness and receiver of divine
blessings.” (Malfuzat, Vol.3, p. 37)
Hence,
when we speak of any type of indecency and moral ill that may be rampant in our
society and various ways to safeguard ourselves, the message of God Almighty,
His Prophetsa and the Imam of the age is crystal clear; Salatis
the answer. The Promised Messiahas further explains:
“Namaz
is such a deed that by observing it, a person is saved from every type of evil
deed and indecency.” (Al Hakam, 10 January 1908, p. 4)
This
fact is also supported by the greatest servant of the Promised Messiahas,
Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin, Khalifatul Masih Ira. He states in the
commentary of this verse:
“Namaz
has been made obligatory for the purpose of safeguarding against manifest evil
(munkar) and indecency (fahsha).” (Haqaiqul Furqan, p.
338)
Now that
it has become abundantly clear from all these references that in fact it is
Salat that is our greatest shield against all evils, we must understand how.
How is it that a mere composition of movements – standing, bowing, and
prostrating, while saying some words in Arabic – can possibly be considered a
shield against all vice and evil? In order to understand this, we must
understand the truth and essence of prayers and its various parts.
Islamic
prayer known as Salatis not a simple exercise, rather every single part
of it bears grand wisdom in it, and it provides the solutions to all forms and
shapes of problems one may experience living in any society and at any time in
the world.
The Holy
Prophetsa is reported to have said that cleanliness is half of
faith, therefore, this highlights for us that it must have an effect on our
moral state as well. In fact, cleanliness has a deep connection with purity of
mind and abstaining from lustful thoughts and eventual sexual misconduct. Islam
clearly stresses cleanliness throughout one’s daily actions, and in fact this
starts quite early in age.
According
to one Hadith, prayer is to be taught to a 7-year-old and becomes obligatory at
age 10 (Sunan Abi Daud, Kitab al-Salat). At this age a child generally
learns of their private parts, and girls, in some cases, start their periods.
Hence, with prayer, the emphasis on cleanliness should also be kept in mind.
Regarding
the cleanliness of the child and its effect on them, Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin
Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra states in Minhaj-ut-Talibin (The
Way of Seekers):
“Let the
child have a clean body. Its impact on his mind will be great. As a
consequence, the child will come to have a clean mind and will become immune to
sins which are caused by uncleanliness. Medical research bears out that a child
commits their first sin because they are dirty. Dirt irritates the anal
passages which the child rubs and manipulates. They find pleasure in the
process and becomes conscious of sex. They can be safeguarded against sexual
errors to a very large extent if they are kept clean. This training must begin
the very day they are born.” (The Way of Seekers, p. 51)
The
Promised Messiahas has explained regarding the importance of
cleanliness while speaking about prayers:
“As long
as uncleanliness remains in a person, Satan remains in love with him.” (Al
Badr, 13 February 1903, p. 27)
There
are various other ways that prayer protects us against moral ills. Hazrat
Khalifatul Masih IIra has explained in the commentary of this verse
(Ch.29: V.46) that prayer surely saves one from impurities and indecencies. It
not only saves us on an individual level but on a collective level as well,
because the time spent in prayers, especially congregational prayers, will take
time away from other activities and keep our minds focused on God. Also, Huzoorra
mentions, that Salat contains many supplications, hence, these supplications
shall be a source of not only personal but collective reformation. Then, Namaz
also contains recitation of the Quran and professing God’s glory and praise,
which has a very strong effect on the heart. The most influential effect of
Salat, however, is that it “grants the human heart a shining light and
with its help, a person can abstain from evils and bad deeds”.
Then,
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra continues that this is due to the prayers
that Salat contains “through which the glory of Allahthe Almighty and
Him being truly worthy of love becomes manifest upon the person.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir,
Vol. 6, p. 643)
As far
as addictions are concerned, nothing need be said regarding their physical and
spiritual harms. That is an obvious and well understood fact. Addictions impair
individuals on every level and block the process of conscious thought. It is
for this reason a person is told to stay away from prayer in the state of
intoxication (Surah al-Nisa, Ch.4: V.44). When something affects one’s prayer,
then that impairs their ability to defend against other evils as well, hence,
addictions in this manner give birth to countless evils.
Salatoffers a solution against this as well. Where the other effects have been
discussed above, it is very interesting how Salat ties in with popular
habit-reformation and behaviour-modification techniques and knowledge. The
premise for most of habit-reformation techniques is quite simple, since habits
are based on habit loops, starting from a cue, then a routine, ending with a
reward.
Researchers
such as Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habits, suggest that in
order to reform a habit, we simply need to replace the routine while keeping
the same outcome and cue. Let us now look at Salat. Most addicts and
drunks indulge because they desire to alleviate a stress or other feeling from
their life; this action provides them with pleasure and temporary relief. Now,
what if the cue – stress, loneliness, company etc. – was followed by another
routine that resulted in the same reward of pleasure and stress alleviation,
while providing much better company? The Holy Quran states, “Aye! it is in the
remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort.” (Surah al-Ra‘d, Ch.13:
V.29)
This is
not merely a theory, in fact, this was displayed beautifully in the lives of
the companions of the Holy Prophetsa, when prayer became their
safe-haven, their hobby and their passion; it annihilated all other desires. It
is to this effect that the Promised Messiahas writes:
تَرَکُوْا الْغَبُوْقَ وَ بَدَّلُوْا مِنْ ذَوْقِہ
ذَوْقَ الدُّعَاءِ بِلَیْلَۃِ الاَحْزَانِ
“[Following your instructions, O Prophetsa] they gave up their [habit of] evening drink, and in exchange for drinking pleasure, they adopted the [practice of deriving] pleasure of prayers in nights of grief.”
In
conclusion, Islamic moral philosophy is quite simple: do not do things that
take you away from God, and do things that take you towards God. All moral ills
take one away from God, therefore, they are to be shunned entirely because God
Himself is to be loved above all. His attributes – or as mentioned in the Holy
Quran, “sibghatullah”–are to be adopted in one’s life in
order to become closer to Him and save oneself from evil; this is the greatest
weapon against moral decay and societal evils.
In order
to achieve this, God Almighty provided us with the gift of Salat and the other
forms of worship such as fasting, Zakat and Hajj. All of these are merely
expressions of love for God and teach us to adopt His love in our lives, and
therefore are not the cure themselves, rather, they allow us to reach the cure
– the love of God.
All of
Islamic moral philosophy is encapsulated by this simple understanding. At the
end of the Biblical verse of Deuteronomy quoted in the beginning, it states
“from his right hand went a fiery law for them”.This completes the
prophecy and states that the law given by him will be a “fiery law”. As
Muslims, this should not be very difficult to understand. Almost every Ramadan,
we are reminded that fasting and Salatliterally mean burning because
they burn away sins. This was the law of the Holy Prophetsa; it
burned away all evil and he didn’t just theorise what this teaching would
achieve, he practically showed its power and cleansed the rust and dirt from
the hearts of the Arabs and the rest of the world for centuries.
It is
not the movements or words of prayer or the act of fasting that safeguard us
against evils, rather it is these forms of worship that connect us to God and
allow us to recognise and love Him by providing the necessary pathway to reach
purity of heart, mind and soul.
On
Saturday, 8 June, hundreds of Ahmadis gathered at Westminster for the launch of
the leaflet campaign, Stop World War 3.
Around
300 people attended with the help of London Jamaats, Majlis Ansarullah UK and
Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya UK. Special posters and banners were created containing
the messages of “Stop WW3”, “WW3 is on the horizon”, “Today the Fifth Successor
Alerts Us of WW3” and “We Stand On The Brink of WW3, One Man Tells Us How to
Turn Back”. Members were given t-shirts to publicise the message.
At
11am the campaign was launched with tilawat followed by short talks by Farooq
Aftab Sahib, Usman Ahmad Sahib, Shakil Butt Sahib and Ibrahim Ikhlaf Sahib,
National Secretary Tabligh.
Ibrahim
Ikhlaf Sahib said, “It is our duty to advise mankind to establish a
relationship with God the Almighty and through this to establish justice … The
outcome of justice is peace … We should reflect on the words of our Khalifa,
Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his helper) who has been warning the
world of the possibility of world war.”
A
silent prayer was then offered.
After
the formal session ended, members went to different areas to distribute
leaflets. Approximately 11,000 leaflets were distributed on the day. Feedback
was generally good and the message was well received by the public. The leaflet
campaign will now move to cities and regions throughout the country.
There
was media presence from MTA, Voice of Islam and the Review of Religions.
In addition, Pakistani television stations A1, Aaj and GEO were present.
The event was heavily promoted on social media with #StopWW3. Following a successful trend by the sheer blessings of Allah the Almighty, Huzoor’s name (Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad) was used since various quotes of Huzoor’s speeches on the topic of the looming world war were used as tweets.
By the
sheer blessings of Allah Almighty, both of these
hashtags trended amongst the top topics in the UK and
Pakistan. The topics started trending right away in Pakistan, while it
started trending in the UK as soon as the event commenced in Westminster. It
continued to trend for around 2 hours in the UK, and for
around 8 hours in Pakistan. Both the terms also were top two trends in London, Faisalabad,
Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore.
More
than 40,000 tweets with the two terms were posted by 950
participants within 8 hours, Alhamdolillah. Those participating
included missionaries from across the world. There was participation
from the UK, Pakistan, Germany, Canada, USA, India, Jordan and many more
countries. The tweets were potentially viewed by tens of thousands of
people around the world.
The
Stop WW3 campaign was launched in February 2019 by the National Tabligh
Department with the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. It is
based on the warnings given by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaa
that the world is heading towards a third world war.
“Every
person, in every part of the world, needs to take individual responsibility
towards establishing peace. Conflicts continue to ignite and burn throughout
the world and so let us not be in any doubt that the shadow of a fateful war
looms before us.” (Copenhagen Address, 2016)
Huzooraa
has delivered speeches at Capitol Hill, the EU and the UK parliament, and has
written numerous letters to world leaders. Through these speeches and letters,
Huzooraa has appealed for a change in international and domestic
policy towards peace, built on the foundations of honesty and justice.
“Peace
cannot be established without justice. And justice cannot be established
without forming a relationship with the Higher Being. A relationship with the
Creator of this World is a prerequisite for justice.” (UK Peace Symposium
Address, 2011)
“Whilst
some are saying that another World War is now unavoidable, I believe that even
now there is time for the world to wake up to the stark reality it faces and to
arrest this threat.” (UK Peace Symposium Address, 2015)
In this
campaign the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK is calling on all persons in the UK
to take a stand, by petitioning members of parliament to change direction by
endorsing this pathway to peace initiative.
This can
be done by sending a letter to each local member of parliament through the
dedicated website stopww3.co.uk and urging them to follow the Khalifa’s
pathway to peace.
The Pathway to Peace initiative has nine points:
1. Establish absolute justice
2. Recognise the Creator
3. Foster global unity
4. Seek nuclear disarmament
5. Eliminate weapon profiteering
6. Create economic equity & eradicate poverty
7. Work for the good of one’s nation
8. Reject extremism
9. Instil service to humanity
To date the campaign has worked on the following initiatives:
– Bill board adverts
– Newspaper advertising
– Social media advertising and promotion
– Ad vans
– Exhibitions
– Leafleting
A tailor-made web portal was created on the True Islam website and a bespoke leaflet has been written and printed.
City Temple, London, where Qazi Abdullah sahib delivered a lecture on religious tolerance
Through
the blessings and benevolence of Allah the Almighty, the tabligh of Islam is
progressing here by each passing day. We have received pleasing news that this
week two respected ladies by the name of Miss Best and Mrs Sulsh, have embraced
Islam through the tabligh of Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq, missionary of Islam.
They have been given the Islamic names of Majeedan and Fatima respectively, Alhamdolillah.
Their
requests of Bai‘at have been sent to be presented before Hazrat Khalifatul
Masih, Amirul Momineen[aa].
Weekly
gatherings are being held regularly. Last Sunday, Hazrat Mufti Sahib delivered
a scholarly lecture on the need of the Imam. The Jalsa was attended by a large
number of people.
This
humble one delivered a brief lecture at the request of an English friend in the
lecture hall of London’s famous City Temple where a conference was being held
in order to establish the League of Religions. The subject of the lecture was
that every religion should highlight its own qualities and refrain from carrying
out heart-tormenting attacks on the founders and holy persons of other
religions because it is the only way to achieve mutual harmony. By doing so,
Islam would triumph eventually.
Wassalam, Qazi Abdullah
4 Star
Street, London, W2. (7 May 1919)
Malabar
Visiting
various regions of India with the purpose of tabligh, respected Maulana Ghulam
Rasul Sahib Rajeki and Sheikh Mahmud Ahmad Sahib, son of Sheikh Yaqub Ali
Sahib, have reached Malabar, where two families accepted Ahmadiyyat, the true
Islam on 9 and 10 May respectively. [A person named] Marham-e-Isa has reached
there as well. He is staying with a person who does not understand Urdu while
he himself is completely unfamiliar with Arabic. The only knowledge that he
does possess [of Arabic] is limited to uttering “ijlis”[sit] in
front of people. On the other hand, the lectures of Maulana Sahib being
delivered in Arabic language are proving extremely beneficial and the opponents
are in a state of awe at his compelling fluency of speech and wisdom. May Allah
the Almighty cause the efforts of the opponents to turn against them and the
truth to become visible.
Egypt
Babu
Abdul Karim Sahib Ahmadi states from Suez that he is engaged in carrying out
tabligh. He went to Paltan 1/152. Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib (dresser) resides
there. People used to show hostility towards him. Abdul Karim Sahib preached to
them. Muhammad Ibrahim Sahib is displaying strong resoluteness. Abdul Karim
Sahib requests to pray for him and his dear ones…
Mauritius
The
proceedings of a false case concerning a mosque filed against Ahmadis by
non-Ahmadis in Mauritius are in full swing. However, by the grace of Allah the
Almighty, the handful of members of Mauritius Jamaat is withstanding the force
of 41,000 individuals from the island with passion and devotion. People are
surprised by the courage of Ahmadis. Opposing witnesses are giving statements
and cross-examinations are being carried out. During a cross-questioning, a
great opponent confessed that in the time of the Holy Prophetsa, Christians
were allowed to worship in Masjid-e-Nabawi. In response, it was stated, “Is the
Ahmadi religion even worse than the Christians?”, as they are not allowed to
offer prayer in mosques. Crowds of people have thronged to hear the proceedings
and the case is proving to be a source of tabligh for countless people. The
Ahmadiyya Jamaat is progressing by the day.
May the
blessings of Allah the Almighty shower upon the poverty-stricken Mauritius
Jamaat. May they be granted strength in their courage and victory in every
sphere.
The
summary of recent letters of Maulvi Obaidullah Sahib, a missionary in
Mauritius, is that there are abundant opportunities for tabligh. Once, at a
certain place, the beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat were addressed from 8am to
10am. A person by the name of Suleiman was there. He had been a great opponent
while his sister accepted Ahmadiyyat a long time ago and she is a devoted lady.
She is the secretary of the Ahmadiyya women’s Anjuman in Mauritius and instills
great religious passion in them. Suleiman Sahib was so strong in opposing his
sister that when she converted to Ahmadiyyat, he did not meet her for years.
Eventually, Allah the Almighty granted him the strength to accept Ahmadiyyat.
He went to his sister, apologised for his mistakes and cried his heart out. In
this manner, many more wise individuals are accepting Ahmadiyyat.
Opponents
often level an allegation against the Jamaat and Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the
Promised Messiahas that Ahmadis were also affected by the plague and
that it is falsely said that Ahmadis were either entirely safeguarded from the
plague or only a handful of Ahmadis fell victim to it as compared to the
casualties of other individuals in the plague affected regions.
Opponents
claim that there is no evidence of this assertion that Ahmadis were completely
saved from the plague and in fact the total number of Ahmadis in the year of
the plague did not exceed 300, hence, they ask, what comparison do 300 individuals
possess with the remaining millions of people present in India?
The
opponents deceitfully raise the above allegation as no reference is provided
from the writings of the Promised Messiahas or any Khalifa which
supports their claim, that according to the Jamaat, not a single Ahmadi life
was lost during the outbreak of plague.
Below
is the extract of the Promised Messiahas that the opponents present
to reinforce this assertion:
“Several members of our Jamaat mistakenly declare that not a single member of our Jamaat will pass away [from the plague], but this is a huge misunderstanding and an improbability. Although Allah the Almighty has promised to a certain degree [that our Jamaat will be safeguarded] but it does not mean that nobody at all from our Jamaat will be affected by the plague. Our Jamaat must bear this fact in mind that Allah the Almighty has certainly not promised that none among us would pass away [from the plague]. Surely, Allah the Almighty states:
“‘As
to that which benefits men, it stays on the earth’ (Surah al-Ra‘d, Ch.13:
V.18), hence those persons who make themselves beneficial to mankind, Allah the
Almighty will prolong their lives. Act mercifully towards the creation of Allah
the Almighty; the rights of mankind must be fulfilled in their entirety.” (Malfuzat,
Vol. 5, pp. 123-124 [2016])
The
above mentioned statement was made by the founder of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat on 9
May 1903 which clearly states, “Our Jamaat must bear this fact in mind that
Allah the Almighty has certainly not promised that none among us would pass
away [from the plague]”, thereby contradicting with the fraudulent claims of
the opponents which indicate that members of the Jamaat hold this view that not
one Ahmadi was affected by the plague. The accusation of the opponents is quite
contrary to the claims of the Promised Messiahas.
Secondly,
the opponents demand factual proof which shows that only a handful of Ahmadis
suffered from the outbreak of the plague in comparison to others and put
emphasis on their fabricated deposition by saying that Ahmadis were only 300
when the plague spread, and to draw their comparison with millions of
individuals belonging to India appears irrational.
It
would have been more reasonable and rational if the opponents had provided a
factual statistical analysis from history to prove their claim and to falsify
the Jamaat’s point of view. However, they do not present a single historical
reference in their support, and it is impossible for them to do so because
there is no basis to their fictitious assertions.
Now we
present those facts which show that Ahmadis were far less affected by the
outbreak of plague than anyone else. Moreover, we will highlight the actual
claim of the Promised Messiahas regarding the plague.
The
opponents point out that the total number of Ahmadis was only 300 at the time
of the plague. A detailed response to this allegation has been recorded in an
earlier article of Responding to Allegations series, under the heading The
Ahmadiyya Jamaat shall prevail (Prophecies of the Promised Messiahas
– Part VII) A look at the figures of the Jamaat in the time of the Promised
Messiahas and it has been clearly proven through external
sources that Ahmadis were not just 300 in the years of the plague epidemic, but
in fact they numbered in thousands.
However,
if for instance we consider the viewpoint of the opponents to be true that the
entire Jamaat comprised of 300 individuals in the years of the plague, it would
certainly support the perspective of the Jamaat and the founder of Ahmadiyyat
that merely a handful of Ahmadis were afflicted by the plague because had it
not been the case, the Jamaat would have been totally wiped out from the face
of earth. Hence, a huge rise in the number of Ahmadis and the spread of
Ahmadiyyat in more than 200 countries and territories of the world clearly
proves the fact that Ahmadis were surely safeguarded from the plague in large
numbers.
Moreover,
opponents admit on other occasions that the increase in the number of Ahmadis
stopped in the year 1906 and their number did not exceed the figure of 400,000,
as though they acknowledge the fact that Ahmadis rose in number from 300 to
400,000 after the plague epidemic.
Opponents
not only hide facts but also the actual claim of the founder of the Ahmadiyya
Jamaat that he presented with respect to the prophecy of the plague. The
Promised Messiahas, while explaining the following revelation:
“Allah
does not bring about a change in the condition of a people until they bring
about a change in their own lives. He will give shelter to the town [after it
has suffered a little]” that he received about the plague, states in his book Dafi‘-ul-Bala
(1902):
“Awa
is an Arabic word that means ‘safeguarding from destruction and disorder’, and
‘taking into one’s protection’. This is a sign pointing to the fact that among
the types of plague the most dreadful type is the one called ta‘un-e-jarif
– meaning, ‘the sweeper’ – from which people flee from place to place and die
like dogs. The situation is beyond the limits of human tolerance. Thus, this
divine revelation contains the promise that this condition will never affect
Qadian. This revelation’s interpretation is provided by another revelation:
لَوْ لَا الْاِکْرَامُ لَھَلَکَ الْمُقَامُ
Meaning
that, had Allah not held this Movement in high regard, then He would have
destroyed Qadian as well. Two points are gleaned from this revelation: First,
it would not matter if Qadian were to experience an incident on rare occasions
– which is within the bounds of human tolerance, does not wreak havoc and does
not induce a panic-driven exodus – because such an extremely rare occurrence
amounts to nothing. Second, it is necessary that a devastating plague must
break out in those cities and villages which, in comparison with Qadian, house
the extremely rebellious, wicked, oppressive, corrupt, immoral and dangerous
opponents of this Movement, to such a degree that people will lose their
senses, and run in every direction. In accordance with its vastness, I have the
defined the word awa in this manner. I claim with conviction that ta‘un-e-jarif,
which empties and swallows villages entirely, shall never break out in Qadian.
In contrast, however, in other cities and villages, where the oppressive and
corrupt are, dreadful scenes are sure to manifest. In the entire world, it is
Qadian alone for which this promise was made.” (Defence Against the Plague
and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp. 11-12 [English Translation of Dafi-ul-Bala])
Regarding
the above-mentioned explanation of the Promised Messiahas, opponents
of the Jamaat allege that anyone can present a similar claim. However, during
the outbreak of plague, the statements of the people are recorded by the
Promised Messiahas in the same book Dafi‘-ul-Bala where he
states:
“I
have heard that when the plague first broke out in Bombay, the initial view of
the people was that this was a miracle of Imam Hussain because the epidemic
first broke out among certain Hindus who had been in dispute with the Shiites.
But when the same disease broke out among the Shiites, their slogans calling
upon Imam Hussain abated. Such are the ideas that the Muslims have proposed to
eradicate the plague.
“The
Christian viewpoint is illustrated by a recent announcement published by
Reverend [Herbert Udny] Weitbrecht and his organisation. It is proposed that
there is no means of eradicating the plague other than to believe in the
Messiah [i.e. Jesusas] as god and to accept his atonement.
“Among
the Hindus, members of the Arya sect are vehemently proclaiming that the
calamity of the plague is caused by the neglect of the Vedas. They call upon
the believers of all other faiths to accept the ‘true teachings’ of the Vedas
and – God forbid – denounce all the prophets as impostors. They claim that this
measure would avert the plague.
“Then,
there is the Sanatan Dharam sect of the Hindus. This sect has suggested an
altogether different idea for eradicating the plague – which I would have
missed, had I not read the newspaper Akhbar-e-Am. Their view is that the
calamity of the plague has broken out due to the [sacrilege of the] cow. If the
government were to pass a law prohibiting the slaughter of cattle forever in
this country, this would effectively eradicate the plague. In fact, at another
place in the same newspaper it is reported that a person even heard a cow
saying that the plague has come to this country because of it.” (Defence
Against the Plague and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp. 9-10)
Contrary
to the statements of various religions, the Promised Messiahas
declares the prophecy of the plague, vouchsafed to him by Allah the Almighty, a
criterion to ascertain the truth or falsehood of all religions. The Promised
Messiahas states:
“Now,
should anyone deny this Messenger of God Almighty and this sign, and if anyone
believes that only superficial observances of prayer and supplication, or
worship of the Messiah, or blessings of the cow, or belief in the Vedas –
despite opposition, enmity, and disobedience towards this Messenger – will
quell the plague, then such an opinion, unless supported by evidence, is not
worthy of acceptance. Hence, a truly excellent opportunity now presents itself
to any individual from among all these sects who wishes to furnish proof in
support of the truthfulness of their respective faith. It is as if God has
provided an exhibition hall so that the truthfulness or falsehood of every
religion can be demonstrated. And God Himself took the initiative to put forth
the name of Qadian [in order to establish its truth].
“Now
if the Arya people consider the Vedas to be true, they should prophesy that
their Parmeshwar [God] will protect Benares from the plague, for it is the true
seat of Vedic learning. Similarly, the people of Sanatan Dharam should prophesy
that the plague will not enter a city where cows are found in large numbers.
For example, they could foretell that Amritsar would be saved because of the blessings
of the cow. If the cow should exhibit this miracle, it would be wholly
understandable if the government enforced a ban on the slaughter of such a
wondrous animal. Similarly, Christians should prophesy that the plague will not
afflict Calcutta because the great bishop of British India resides there. In
the same way, Mian Shams-ud-Din and members of his Anjuman Himayat-e-Islam
should make a prophecy about Lahore, that it shall remain protected against the
plague. And the accountant, Munshi Ilahi Baksh, who claims to receive
revelation, has an opportunity to aid the Anjuman-e-Himayat-e Islam by making a
prophecy concerning [the protection of] Lahore. It would also be appropriate
for Abdul-Jabbar and Abdul-Haqq to make a prophecy concerning the city of Amritsar.
Moreover, since Wahhabism prevails in Delhi, it would be appropriate for Nadhir
Hussain and Muhammad Hussain to make a prophecy that Delhi shall remain
protected from the plague. So, in this way, the whole of the Punjab will be
delivered from this fatal disease. And the government too will be absolved of
its responsibility at no cost. But should they fail to do so, it will perforce
be determined that the true God is He who has raised His Messenger in Qadian.”
(Defence against the Plague and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp.
18-19)
Lastly,
we present the challenge of the Promised Messiahas which he issued
regarding the plague:
“I swear
by God Almighty that I am the Promised Messiah. I am the one who was promised
by the Prophets. The Torah, the Gospel and the Holy Quran all give news about
me and the era of my advent and expound that, in the heavens, the moon and the
sun would be eclipsed at the time of my appearance, and a terrible plague would
befall the land. This is my sign; each and every opponent – whether he lives in
Amroha or Amritsar, whether in Delhi or Calcutta, whether in Lahore, Golra or
Batala – if any of them should swear on oath that their area of residence shall
remain free from the plague, then it will surely be swept up by the plague, for
they would have committed insolence against God Almighty.” (Defence
against the Plague and a Criterion for the Elect of God, pp. 29-30)
(Research conducted by a panel of scholars at the Research Cell, Rabwah. Translated by Al Hakam)
To
celebrate 111 years of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya, Jamaat Canada held Jalsa Khilafat
Day across the country. Below are details of the events for some of the larger
Jalsas:
Combined event for Peel and Vaughan Jamaats
The
biggest event was held at the Baitul Islam Mosque complex. Members of Peel and
Vaughan Jamaats attended. Amir Jamaat
Canada, Lal Khan Malik Sahib presided the session.
The
programme started with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by its
translation in English and Urdu. This was followed by a poem and its English
translation. Amir Sahib Canada gave the opening address and highlighted the
importance and significance of Khilafat Ahmadiyya.
The
first speech was delivered by Tahir Ahmad Mian Sahib on the topic of Khilafat
and Unity in Islam. Imtiaz Sara Sahib then elaborated on the Blessings
of Khilafat.
Thereafter,
a choral poem was recited by Fateen Riaz Sahib and Farrukh Tahir Sahib.
The
concluding speech was delivered by Mirza Muhammad Afzal Sahib on Obedience to
Khilafat. National Amir Sahib made the concluding remarks and the Jalsa ended
with silent prayer. The event saw a total attendance of 1,525 members. Iftari
and dinner was served to all.
Calgary
Calgary’s
Bait-un-Noor mosque held the second largest Khilafat Day event in Canada. The
recitation of the Holy Quran was followed by English and Urdu translations. A
poem with English translation was also recited.
A video
on Khilafat for Mankind was shown. An interesting quiz competition on
Al-Wasiyyat was conducted by Zahid Abid Sahib and was appreciated by the
audience. Asif Arif Sahib gave the main speech on the topic of Importance of
Personal Relationship with Khalifa.The Jalsa concluded with silent
prayer by the Amir of Calgary, Majeed Ahmad Meer Sahib. The total attendance
was 1,150 members. After the event, iftari and dinner was served to
guests.
Weston
In
Weston, tilawat and poems were followed by their translations. A video on the
importance of Khilafat was shown. Speakers highlighted the blessings of
Khilafat for Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya. The total attendance was 1,032 members.
Vancouver
On the
west coast of Canada, Bait-ur-Rahman mosque Vancouver welcomed Ahmadis to the
Jalsa. Atfal who went to meet Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa in London
in March 2019 shared their experiences of spending time with their beloved
Imam.
A speech
in English was made by Sabahat Sahib on unique aspects of the leadership of
Khilafat. A video showing the visit of Khulafa to Vancouver was shown. The
concluding speech was made by Amir Vancouver, Naeem Ahmad Lakhan Sahib on Tahrik-e-Jadid;
A Divine Scheme. 670 members attended the event, after which iftari
and dinner was served to all.
Mississauga
Baitul-Hamd
Mosque was the venue for the Jalsa in Mississauga. Tilawat and poem were
followed by their respective translations. Missionary of Mississauga, Sadiq
Ahmad Sahib spoke on the topic of Khilafat is a Blessing. Amir Mississauga Jamaat, Ahsan Gardezi Sahib
gave the concluding address. 600 in total attended the event.
Toronto
For
Toronto Jamaat, Jalsas were held at local levels. This allowed members to attend their local
namaz centres and benefit from the blessings of these Jalsas. In total 400
members were recorded to have attended the Khilafat Day Jalsas in Toronto. All attendees were served iftari and
dinner.
Generally,
Khilafat Day Jalsas are held in all the 8 regions and 32 Jamaats of Canada. The
total number of people attending Khilafat Day Jalsas around Canada is around
8,000 members.
Prior
to Eid-ul-Fitr, on 27 May 2019 the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Bosnia along with
Humanity First Germany prepared Eid food packets for distribution among the
refugees stranded in Sarajevo Refugee camp.
On
arrival, Mufeezur Rahman Sahib of the Ahmadiyya Mission and Humanity First
Bosnia along with his team and with Balkan Director of Humanity First Germany
were welcomed by the camp director. Later, a tour of the camp was conducted by
the camp authorities and food cooking and distribution facilities were shown to
the visiting team. Along with IOM (International Organisation for Migration)
local humanitarian organisation Pomozi.ba managed
all the matters related to this food donation.
According
to camp authorities, the help provided by Humanity First through AMJ Bosnia
will suffice for 3,500 meals for the camp residents. Currently, the camp houses
above 800 refugees. Food help in the month of Ramadan was very much applauded
by all concerned.
Following
the donation in Bosnia, food security and medical camp projects were organised
another four times by National President of AMJ Macedonia, Wasim Sahib with the
financial help of Humanity First. These projects continued from 30 May to 2
June 2019. The municipality of Berovo, Macedonia was generous enough to provide
a big hall for distribution of the food packets and to conduct medical
check-ups.
Director
of Health for the region was personally present along with doctors and medical
staff who volunteered to help their countrymen. A unique aspect of the project
was visiting the houses of those people who, due to their weak conditions, were
unable to come to the municipality hall. It took many hours for doctors,
medical staff and volunteers of HF to visit the houses in remote villages of
Berovo and to hand out medicine as well as food packets.
One
could feel the emotions of those who received the needed items at their door
steps. The local media was highly impressed with this gesture of AMJ and
Humanity First. Television channels covered the event and gave prime time news
coverage. Similarly, newspapers also covered the event.
After
Berovo, the Humanity First team travelled 200km to the city of Kumanovo,
bordering Kosovo. This time, food packets were distributed to deaf people. The
municipality was kind enough to provide a hall as well as an interpreter to
understand what the people wanted to say about this project of AMJ and HF.
Local television outlets also covered the event and news was broadcast several
times covering the efforts of the Jamaat and Humanity First.
After
Kumanovo, another refugee camp 250km away in the city of Gevgelije, bordering
Greece, was chosen to deliver the food packets. The camp is administered under
UNHCR. Local humanitarian organisations Red Cross, JSR and Legis were extremely
cooperative to undertake the distribution of food items donated by HF through
AMJ Macedonia. Local television channels remained with the Humanity First and
Jamaat team during the whole project and later covered the news in prime time.
On 3
June, the Humanity First team visited the refugee camp in Sofia-Bulgaria.
There, waited almost 100 youths who were without parents and had been living in
the camp for a few months. Families with young children also received the Eid
gift packets. All recipients were extremely happy and thankful to Humanity
First for remembering the less privileged thousands of kilometres away.
Jawwad
Sahib, Abdullah Sahib, Zia Sahib, wife of Jawwad Sahib and his mother took all
the trouble to purchase, pack and distribute the Eid gift packs.
Through
the service of humanity, the Jamaat has a good reputation in these areas. The
Jamaat and Humanity First is now well known in these Balkan countries due to
continuous humanitarian projects.
May
Allah accept this humble effort and shower His ever-increasing blessings on all
those who take the trouble to serve humanity.
The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:
“Allah the Exalted says, ‘I am as my slave expects me to be, and I am with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers Me inwardly, I will remember him inwardly, and if he remembers Me in an assembly, I will remember him in a better assembly [i.e., in the assembly of angels].”
