Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam

Author: Dr. Karimullah Zirvi

Language: EN

EN
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

Excellent book on Islam with the best introduction ever on Ahmadiyyat. It explains what Ahmadiyyat is, it's aims and objects, differences between Ahmadi and non-Ahmadi Muslims, our chanda system, Nizam-e-Jama'at etc.


Book Content

Page 1

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam − ÁÎYj»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − WELCOME TO AHMADIYYAT, THE TRUE ISLAM TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction.............................................................................13 System of Transliteration............................................................15 Publisher's Note.........................................................................17 1.....................................19 The Purpose of Man's Life Means of Attaining Purpose of Life...........................24 Significance of Religion............................................28 The Continuity of Religion........................................29.........................31 The Apex of Religious Development.....................................................31 Unity of Religions 2.................................................32 Islam and a Muslim − Unification of Humanity Through Islam...................44 −.......................................................50 Ahmadi Muslims ± − 1

Page 2

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam − 3.........52 The Islamic Beliefs (The Articles of Faith) − Unity of Allah............................................................54 − The Islamic Concept of God Almighty......................55 −........................61 God's Attributes (Divine Names) Angels........................................................................64...........................65 The Islamic Concept of Angels − Books.........................................................................68 Prophets.....................................................................68 The Day of Judgment................................................72 Divine Decree (Taqdir)..............................................73 − The Islamic Concept of Predestination and Free Will 74 − Some Other Beliefs of Muslims............................78 4.......................................................79 Islamic Worship − The Five Pillars of Islam...........................................80 − Salat (Prayer).............................................................83 ± −...............................................................83 Mosque.....................................84 Visiting a Mosque.................................................................86 Wudu ’ ± −.........................................................89 Tayammum........................................................89 Mu adhdhin ’.................................................................90 Adhan −................................................................93 Iqamat −..................................................................95 Imam − Daily Prayers......................................................95....................................Types of Prayers 98..................................Obligatory Prayers 98..............Number of Rak‘at in Each Prayer 99 −............................Timings of the Prayers 100.....................Forbidden Times for Prayers 102..............Offering Prayer While on Journey 102 Pre-requisites and Conditions Regarding Offering Prayers.......................103................................Prayer (Arabic Part) 105..............................................Vitr Prayer 115 2

Page 3

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam −..........................................Friday Prayer 116 121 Sujudus Sahv (Prostrations of Condonement) −....................................Voluntary Prayers 122 Nawafil............................................................122 −.................................................Tahajjud Prayer 124 Remembrance of Allah After Finishing the Prayer 125 − Dhikr-i-Ilahi (Remembrance of Allah).................128 − − − Du‘a (Silent Supplication) ’.................................132 − Various Other Prayers.........................................137 ‘Istikharah Prayer...................................137 − Janaza Service (Funeral Prayer)................138 − Fasting........................................................................145..................................................Kinds of Fasts 149 Travih Prayers.................................................151 − −..............................................I‘tikaf or Retreat 151 −...................................................Lailatul Qadr 152 Hajj...........................................................................154 ±................................The Requirements of Hajj 155 ±...........................................Obligations of Hajj 157 ±..............................................................Ihram 159 ± −.....................................................Hajj Service 159 ±............................................................‘Umrah 162 Types of Hajj....................................................162 ±.....Indiscretions During Hajj and the Reparations 165 ± Zakat.........................................................................165 − 5.............................................................168 Islamic Law − The Holy Qur’an.......................................................171 −....................173 Some Facts About the Holy Qur’an −.....................177 Practice of the Holy Prophet (Sunnah) sa......................179 Sayings of the Holy Prophet (Hadith) sa ± −......................179 Categories of the Books of Hadith ± −....................................180 The Categories of Hadith ± −............181 Criteria to Judge Authenticity of a Hadith ± − 3

Page 4

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam − 6..................................183 The Holy Prophet of Islam sa − Charter of Freedom..................................................186 The Farewell Address of the Holy Prophet sa (Hajjatul Wida‘)..........................................................187 ± − The Holy Prophet's Illness sa.......................................190 7 Khilafat (Succession) in Islam...............................192 − − Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq ra..........................................195 ± ± − ± − Hadrat ‘Umar Faruq ra.................................................197 ± ± − − Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani ra..............................................199 ± ± − − Hadrat ‘Ali Bin Abu Talib 201 ra........................................± ± − − ± − 203 Accession of Hadrat Hasan ra................................± ± ± 8 Sects in Islam..............................................................204 −................................................................The Sunnis 205 −............................The Schools of Jurisprudence 205..........................................................The Wahhabis 206 − −.............................................................The Shi'ites 206...............................The Larger Shi‘ah Subsects 210 9 Ahmadiyyat, The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at...212 ± ± −....................The Name 'Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at' 222 ± − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad Qadiani, ± ± − − ± −....................225 the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi as − −.....Children of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as 229 −.......0 Claims of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as 23 − The Mission of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as 233 − Status of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as.........235 − 4

Page 5

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam − Heavenly Signs in Support of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as...........................................................238 − The Eclipses of the Sun and the Moon.........239 Extraordinary and miraculous Knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and Arabic Language.....242 − Fulfillment of the Prophecies of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as........................243 −.......The Prophecy Concerning Birth of a Son 243..........Prophecy Regarding Pundit Lekh Ram 248 −...........Dire End of Alexander Dowie of Zion 251 A list of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's Books as 258 −............................Beliefs of Ahmadiyya Jama'at 261 ± −.........................Conditions of Bai‘at (Initiation) 268.....................The Ten Conditions of Bai‘at 270 10 The Differences Between Ahmadi and ± − Non-Ahmadi Muslims..............................................272 ± − Jesus Christ's Demise as..............................................273 The Second Advent of the Promised Messiah and Imam Mahdi as........................................................275 − − Non-Ahmad Muslim's Concept of i ± − the Advent of Messiah..........................................276 The Correct Interpretation According to Ahmadi Muslims 277.............................................± −.............Messiah and Mahdi are the Same Perso n 279 − The Interpretation of the Finality of Hadrat Muhammad's Prophethood sa....................281 ± ± ±...................................The Institution of Khilafat 286 − The Concept of Jihad.........................................288 − 11.....................................293 The Khilafat-i-Ahmadiyya − ± Need for a Khilafat......................................................295 − 5

Page 6

Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam − Establishment of Khilafat...........................................296 − Signs of Khilafat.........................................................297 −...................................................298 Blessings of Khilafat −...............................298 Functions and Powers of Khilafat − Era of Khilafat.............................................................299 − Election of Khalifatul Masih.......................................301 − − ± Status of Khalifatul Masih..........................................302 − − ± The Khulafa-i-Ahmadiyyat.........................................303 − ±..................................304 Hadrat Khalifatul Masih I ra ± ± − − ±.................................Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra 306 ± ± − − ± Election as Khalifah and Split in the Jama'at 307 − − Some of the Writings of the Khalifatul Masih II ra 309 − − ±................................Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III rh 310 ± ± − − ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV rh...............................312 ± ± − − ± International Bai‘at.................................313................Translations of the Holy Qur’an 314 − 317 Hadrat Khalifatul Masih V aba...............................± ± − − ± 12 318 Organizational Structure of the Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − Khalifatul Masih........................................................318 − − ± Majlis-i-Shura or Majlis-i-Mushawarat.....................319 − − International Majlis-i-Shura................................320 − National Majlis-i-Shura......................................323 − International Headquarters (Markaz)..........................324 Qadian, India......................................................325................................Darweshan-i-Qadian 325 −......................................Minaratul Masih 325 − − ±...............................................Baitul Fikr 326 Baitud Du‘a’............................................326 − Bahishti Maqbarah...................................327 −...............................................Rabwah, Pakistan 328........................adr Anjuman Ahmadiyya S 329 ± ±............Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya 336 ± − − ±...........................................Waqf-i-Jadid 342 − 6

Page 7

−.......................................Khilafat Library 345 −................Secondary Schools and Colleges 349..............‘ Ta limul Islam High School 349 − −....................‘ Ta limul Islam College 350 − − Jami‘a Nusrat (Women's College).....350 − ± Industrial School...........................350 Jami‘a Ahmadiyya...................................351 − ± Fadl-i-‘Umar Hospital..............................354 ± London, UK.......................................................355 Muslim Television Ahmadiyya..................355 ± Local Anjumans..........................................................357........................................National Headquarters 357.Election/Appointment of the Office-bearers 357 Local Chapters (Muqami Jama'ats)............360 − − − 13.................361 Auxiliaries of the Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − Lajna Ima’illah............................................................362 − − Nasiratul Ahmadiyya...........................................365 − ± − ± Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya...................................367 − ± Atfalul Ahmadiyya..............................................369 ± − ± Majlis Ansarullah........................................................370 ± − − 14 Institutions and Various Schemes of the Ahmadiyya Jama'at........................................373 ± − Darul Qada..................................................................373 − ± − Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation............................................374 ± Darul Diafat (Langar Khana).....................................377 − ± − − Nusrat Jahan Scheme..................................................379 ± − Centenary Jubilee Scheme...........................................381 Buyutul Hamd Scheme..............................................381 − ± Waqf-i-Ardi Scheme..................................................382 − ± − Waqf-i-Nau Scheme...................................................382 Various Jama'at Associations....................................384 − 7

Page 8

− 15 Magazines and Newspapers of the Ahmadiyya ± Jama'at...........................................................................385 − Al-Hakam and Al-Badr..............................................385 ±..The Daily Al-Fadl and Weekly International Al-Fadl 385 ± ± Review of Religions and Tash-hidhul Adh-han..........386 ± − − 16 Chanda (Subscription) System of the Ahmadiyya Jama'at...........................................387 ± − Spending in the Cause of Allah...................................387 − Chandas (Monetary Donations)..................................392 The Main Obligatory Chandas.............................393 Zakat......................................................393 −....................................................Fitrana 396 ± −...........Chanda ‘Am (Regular Subscription) 396 − Chanda Wasiyyat......................................397 ± Nizam-i-Wasiyyat..........................397 ± − ±..................................Chanda Jalsa Salana 401 − −.....Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) 401 − − Some Other Obligatory Chandas..........................403 Chanda Tehrik-i-Jadid..............................403 ± − − Chanda Waqf-i-Jadid................................410 − ‘Id Fund..................................................412 − s The Voluntary Chanda.........................................412 Sadqa (Charity)..........................................412 ± Some Other Voluntary Chandas...................413 17........................414 Muslim Festivals and Ceremonies ‘Idul fitr (Festival at the end of Ramadan)..................414 − ± ± − ‘Idul adhiyya (Festival of Sacrifice)...........................414 − ± ± Marriage.....................................................................417......................Prohibitions Concerning Marriage 419....................Nikah (Announcement of Marriage) 420 − ± 8

Page 9

− Wal ma i................................................................427 − Divorce.............................................................428 429 Ploygamy...........................................................‘Aqiqa.........................................................................431 − Amin...........................................................................432 − − Jama'at's Various Other Functions............................432 − 18 Status of Women in Islam.........................................434 −........................................................438 Woman as Mother............................................................440 Woman as Wife.....................................................441 Woman as Daughter..............................................443 Segregation of the Sexes 19........446 Some of the Islamic Manners and Etiquette − Islamic Dietary Laws.................................................446 − Prayers Before Eating and on Finishing a Meal..........448 Prayers at Various Other Occasions............................449 Prayers at the Time of Sneezing..................................450 Using Right Hand......................................................451 Greeting Each Other...................................................452 Islamic Prohibitions....................................................452 − Prohibition of Eating Pork...................................452 Alcohol................................................................453 Gambling.............................................................454 Interest................................................................455 Placing Flowers on Graves....................................457.............................................................457 Birthdays 458 Wedding Ceremonies............................................20 Islamic Concepts Of: − Divine Revelation.......................................................459 Characteristics of True Revelation.........................461 9

Page 10

− The Soul......................................................................463 Life After Death..........................................................464 Salvation.....................................................................470 Heaven and Hell...........................................................471 Jinn..............................................................................476 Justice.........................................................................480 Equality of Mankind...................................................483 Ethics..........................................................................484 21 Islamic Laws of Inheritance...........................................486 − Islamic Calendars........................................................489 −....................................................489 Hijri Qamri Calendar − −...................................................490 Hijri Shamsi Calendar − −.......................491 Glossary of Urdu and Arabic Words −.................................................................505 Bibliography..............................................................................509 Index 10

Page 11

Page 12

Page 13

− ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ÁÎYj»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ì ê Õ ê æ ê In the name of All − ah, the Gracious, the Merciful ´ INTRODUCTION By the Grace of God, ± Ahmadiyyat, the Tr − ue Islam is spreading throughout the world.People of all creeds and color are joining Ah ± madiyyat in unprecedented numbers.Just last year more than 81 million (see attached letter after th e Foreword section) men, women and children all over the world have joined Ah ± madiyyat.Acceptance of Isla − m and joining the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ( Community), undoubtedly, is the most important decision one makes in one's life.It was felt that there should be a book containing basic information about Islam Ahmadiyyat which could be given to people j oining the Ah ± madiyya Muslim Community.The book should also provide basic information about the Jama'at's Organizational system, Chanda system, and various Jama'at's activities, etc.This book has been prepared to this end and is a compilation of the material already published in the literature of the Jama'at.For a more detailed information about Islam an d Ahmadiyyat, the reader is urged to read the books listed in the Bibliography.The manuscript was reviewed by respected M.M.Ahmad, Amir − Jama'at Ahmadiyya, USA, late Maulana Ataullah Kaleem, Retired, Amir − ± − and Missionary In-charge, USA, and the following missionaries: 1.Maulana Shamshad A.Nasir, Missionary, Headquarters, USA 2.Maulana Mukhtar A.Cheema, Missionary, South Midwest 3.Maulana Daud A.Hanif, Missionary, Northeast 4.Maulana Inamul Haq Kauser, Missionary, Southwest 5.Maulana Mubasher Ahmad, Missionary ,West Midwest ± 6.Maulana Irshad A.Malhi, Missionary, Northwest 7.Maulana Muhammad Zafrullah Hanjra, Missionary, East Midwest 13

Page 14

− In addition, Maulana Munir-ud-Din Shams, Additional Vakilut − Tasnif, London, Mr.Munawar Saeed, USA, Mr.Syed Abdul Hayee Shah, ± − Mr.Habib-ur-Rehman Zirvi and Maulana Fazal Ilahi Bashir, Rabwah have also reviewed the manuscript.I am grateful to everyone for their excellent suggestions with regards to the improvement of this publication.All these suggestions have been gladly incorporated.I acknowledge with thanks the help given by Sumra Zirvi and Ayesha Khan in proof reading and editing, and Dr.Monib Zirvi for the design and preparation of the cover of the book.Although, this book has been prepared for newcomers in Ahmadiyyat, the true Islam, it may also serve as an introduction to those ± − seeking more information about Islam and Ahmadiyyat, but are not yet − ± ready to make a commitment.Karimullah Zirvi National Secretary Ta‘lim − Jama'at Ahmadiyya, USA − ± 14

Page 15

− SYSTEM OF TRANSLITERATION This book has the Arabic text and its English transliteration.We have adopted the following system for the English transliteration in this book: The is represented by 'a' or the a‘rab, by b, by t, by j, A L P X ` − by h, by d, by r, by z, by s, by sh, by s, by t, by z, e i k p t x ¢ ¦ ± ± ± ± ² ¶ º ¾ Â Æ Ê Ë by f, by q, by k, by l, by m, by n, by h, by v or w, and Ô by y.For we have used pronounced like in the English word T th, th thing.kh ch loch.For we have used pronounced like the Scottish in d For we have used pronounced like the in the English words g dh th that with th and.For we have used d pronounced like the in the ~ ± English word For we have used ‘ , a strong gluttoral specific to this.ª Arabic.For we have used , a sound approached very nearly in the ® gh r grasseye in French.For we have used a sort of catch in the voice.Õ ’, We have represented by an (pronounced like the in the fatha a u English word ) when short and by (pronounced like the in English bud a a − word ) when long, by (pronounced like the i in the English word father ai say ya au ou ) when followed by a , and by (pronounced resembling the in the English word ) when followed by a.sound waw We have represented by an (pronounced like the in the kasrah i i English word ) when short, by (pronounced like the in the English bid i ee − word ) when long.deep 15

Page 16

− We have represented by a (pronounced like the in the damma u oo ± English word ) when short, by (pronounced like the in the wood u oo − English word ) when long.shoot The muffled sound of when or with follow the Æ Ë Ô shadda tanween has been represented by ñ.There are no capitals in Arabic, therefore we have not used any capitals in transliteration, when the transliteration is not a part of the English text.We have followed the rules of English grammar (and have used capitals where applicable) when Arabic words or expressions appear in the English Text.16

Page 17

− PUBLISHER'S NOTE Please note that in referencing the Holy Qur’an we have counted − the verse: ÁÎYj»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê In the Name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − as the first verse of the Chapter in which it appears.Some publishers of the Holy Qur’an, however, begin counting the verses after the verse − ÁÎYj»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê Should the reader not find the relevant verse under the number given in the book, it would be found in the adjacent lower number.For instance, the reader would find the referred verse under 3 instead of 4.The translation of the verses of the Holy Qur’an mentioned in the − book is taken from Hadrat Maulawi Sher ‘Ali Sahib's translation.In ra ± ± − ± − ± addition, the translation done by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV in the aba ± ± − − ± appendix of the Holy Qur’an with Hadrat Maulawi Sher ‘Ali Sahib's ra − ± ± − ± − ± translation has been given.Many translators add explanatory words in their translation, which are not found in the Qur’anic text.But they see to − it that the reader is not misled to consider them as the words of the Qur’an.− Hadrat Maulawi Sher ‘Ali Sahib has italicized such words.ra ± ± − ± − ± The name Muhammad and his titles - the Holy Prophet or the ± Founder of Islam - are generally followed by the symbol for the sa − salutation meaning sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam May peace and blessings of ± − Allah be upon him.− The names of most other Prophets and Messengers of God are 17

Page 18

− followed by the symbol for meaning.as ‘alai hissalam on whom be peace − The names of the companions of the Holy Prophet of Islam and the sa − Promised Messiah and Mahdi are followed by the symbol for as ra radiallahu − ± − ta‘ala ‘anhu may God be pleased with him.meaning The names of the − Khalifatul Masih III and Khalifatul Masih IV are followed by the − − ± − − symbols for and for rh aba rahmahullah ta‘ala ayyadahullah ta‘ala binasrihil ± − − − − ± ‘aziz, respectively.The actual salutations have not been set out in full for − the sake of brevity.The readers should treat the full salutation as implicit.18

Page 19

− ÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A nI ‘ ‘ ë æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − 1 THE PURPOSE OF MAN'S LIFE Different people, being shortsighted and lacking high resolve, appoint different purposes for their lives and most of them limit themselves to worldly goals and ambitions.However, the real purpose of life that God Almighty has appointed for man, as mentioned in the following verse of the Holy Qur’an, is to worship God Almighty: − ÆËfJ¨Î» ÜA oà AË ÅV»A O´¼a B¿Ë , j ê æ å å æ ä ê ì ê ä æê ä ì ê æ å æ ä ä ä ä wa ma kalaqtul jinna wal insa illa li ya‘budun − − − And I have not created the Jinn ( ) and the men ( ) but chiefs common people that they may worship Me (51:57) Thus, the true purpose of man's life is the worship of God, His understanding and complete devotion to Him.It is obvious that man is not in a position to appoint the purpose of his own life, for he does not come into the world of his own accord, nor will he depart therefrom of his own will.He is a creature of God, and the One Who created him and invested him with better and higher faculties than those of all other animals has also appointed a purpose for his life.Whether anyone penetrates to it or not, the 19

Page 20

− purpose of man's creation without a doubt is the worship and the understanding of God and complete devotion to Him.(The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, p 106, Published: 1996) − Various traditions of the Holy Prophet , which are basically an sa explanation of the above verse of the Holy Qur’an, further explain the − purpose of life.God Almighty revealed to the Holy Prophet the purpose sa of the creation of man, which is stated in the following tradition of the Holy Prophet , which is a : sa Hadith-i-Qudsi ± − − ÂeA O´¼b¯ ²j§A ÆA PeiB¯ Bΰb¿ AlÄ· OÄ· ä ä Ð å æ ä ä ä ä ä æ å æ ä í æ ä ä ä î ê æ ä í æ ä å æ å kuntu kanzan makhfiyyan fa arattu an u‘rafa fa khalaqtu adama − I was a hidden treasure then I decided that I be recognized and the world may know me, therefore, I Created Adam (Mazyalal Khfa-i-wal albas Vol.2, p.132 by Isma‘il bin Muhammad al‘ajlan ) i − − − − ± − − Another saying of the Holy Prophet which describes the purpose sa of creation of man is as follows: - ÉMiÌu Ó¼§ ÂeA μ¼a ½U Ë l§ ɼ»A ÆA × ê ä æ å Ð ä ä ä Ø ä ä ä ì ä ä ì ä ä Õ ì ê innallaha ‘azza wa jalla khalaqa adama ‘ala suratihi − − − ± − − God has Created Adam in His own Appearance (Bukhari Kitabul Astaidhan Bab Bad‘al Islam p 919, Musnad Ahmad, p 323/2) − − − − − − ± The verse of the Holy Qur’an ( ) and the traditions of the Holy 51:57 − Prophet mentioned above clearly establish that the purpose of man's sa 20

Page 21

− creation is that he should obey God.It is, therefore, imperative that one should keep this purpose constantly in mind.According to Islam, the object of human life is its complete − spiritual transition, to worship One God and serve His creations.It teaches that everyone has the seed of perfect development, and it rests solely with a person to achieve or realize the full potential, or let it remain unaccomplished.Islam does not support the idea that man is born in sin.− Humans are the best of creation, according to Islam.− God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ÍÌ´M ÅnYA Ó¯ ÆBnÃÜA BÄ´¼a f´» ,‘ î æ ê æ ä ê ä æ ä æ ê ä ä ææê ä æ ä ä æ ä ä laqad khalaqnal insana fi ahsani taqwim − − ± − Surely, We have created man in the best of creative plans.(95:5) gave this response Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV to the following aba ± ± − − ± question from a Christian: What is the purpose of life according to the Islamic faith? He stated: − "The purpose of life should be the same in all Divinely revealed faiths.It has to be so because in the faiths that have originated from God, the purpose cannot differ - that is impossible.This is exactly what the Holy Qur’an has mentioned.It states that all religions, whatever they were, − wherever they originated, in whatever age, they all taught the same basic fundamentals that the purpose of life is to return to God -- consciously, not through death -- by paying homage to God, and by worshipping Him with all sincerity, without calling on any partners alongside God.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ¸¼J³ Å¿ ÅÍh»AË ¸´¼a Ðh»A ¸Ii AËfJ§A pBÄ»A BÈÍBÍ ‘ ‘ ‘ æ å ê æ ä æ ê ä æ ê ì ä æ å ä ä ä æ ê ì å å ì ä æ å å æ å ì ä í ä ê 21

Page 22

− ÕBÄI ÕBÀn»A ËBqAj¯ ~iÜA ¸» ½¨U Ðh»A ÆÌ´NM ¸¼¨» ‘ , ‘ í ðØ ä ê ä Ø ä ì ì í ä ê ä æ æ ä å å ä ä ä ä æ ê ì ö ä æ å ìä æ å ì ä ä ݯ ¸»B³ki PjÀR»A Å¿ ÉI XjaB¯ ÕB¿ ÕBÀn»A Å¿ ¾lÃA Ë ‘ ä ä æ ô å ì í æ ê ê Ð ä ì ä ê × ê ä ä æä ä í Ø ä ê Ø ä ì ä ê ä ä æä ì ÆÌÀ¼¨M NÃA Ë AeAfÃA ɼ» A̼¨VM , ‘ ä æ å ä æ ä æ å æä ì í ä æä ê Õ ê æ å ä æ ä ya ayyu hannasu‘budu rabbakumulladhi khalaqakum − − − − walladhina min qablikum la‘allakum tattaqun alladhi ja‘ala − − − lakumul arda firashañwwassama’a bina’añwwa anzala ± − − − minassama’i ma’an fa akhraja bihi minaththamarati − − − − rizqallakum fala taj‘alu lillahi andadañwwa antum ta‘lamun − − − − − O ye men, worship your Lord Who created you and those who were before you, that you may become righteous; Who made the earth a bed for you, and the heaven a roof, and caused water to come down from the clouds and therewith brought forth fruits for your sustenance.Set not up, therefore, equals to Allah, while you know (2:22-23) − So if one is sincere in his dedication to worship of the One and only God, he is fulfilling the first message, which is given by all the Prophets of God, everywhere in the world, that the purpose of life is to worship God Almighty.The following verse of the Holy Qur’an ( ) specifically speaks 51:57 − of this purpose: ÆËfJ¨Î» ÜA oà AË ÅV»A O´¼a B¿Ë , j ê æ å å æ äê ì ê ä æê ä ì ê æ å æ ä ä ä ä And I have not created the Jinn ( ) and the men ( ) chiefs common people but that they may worship Me (51:57) In this verse God Almighty states that I have not created man, mighty or meek, but for the sake of worshipping Me.22

Page 23

− At first glance, this purpose appears to be rather a selfish one, but upon deeper consideration it becomes totally different from what it initially seemed.The phrase 'to worship Him' needs to be clearly understood.Here, the English word 'worship' is misleading - in Arabic it does not have the same connotations.Worship is not just to formally bow to someone, to a thing, or to a god, or whatever.Worship means to completely divest oneself of all rights of ownership, to admit that these rights belong to God, not to us, because the word 'worship' in Arabic has the same root as the Arabic word which means 'a slave'.Now, the ‘ abd definition of a slave is one who does not possess even his own body - whatever he earns goes to his master.This common root is significant in understanding the meaning of worship in Islamic terminology.The − meaning now becomes much broader and rises high above that which may have been assumed in the beginning, i.e., just to bow to God and all will be well is not at all a correct assumption.God reminds us that everything He has created belongs to Him; you will return to Him one day, and in that, you have no option.God says return to Me before that day and divest yourself completely of all your properties and possessions, even that which you desire to possess and submit it to God - this is worship.The second meaning of worship is to follow somebody - to follow in the tracks of someone.So, the second meaning of worship would be to follow the attributes of God because, if He is the Master, you must know what the Master's desires are and you must respond accordingly.Here the meaning of worship is to understand what God requires of us and to do exactly as He requires.This is not a selfish concept from the vantage point of God.This is done for the sake of man, because all the advantages are gained by man, not by God.This aspect has been further clarified in the Holy Qur’an to remove any misunderstanding about this purpose.In the − Holy Qur’an, God states that even if He had not created man or even if all − humanity had rejected Him, it would still not make the slightest dent in God's Sovereignty, because there exist, in far greater number, other living forms like the angels and other spirits who bow to God without any question, who submit to Him as if it is ingrained in them - and it is ingrained in them.If this was the purpose, why should God have created man at all - He had plenty of other living beings to bow to Him.So the creation of man is for the sake of man and not for the sake of God.Its 23

Page 24

− purpose is to be of benefit, not to God, but to man, because whoever gains nearness to Him becomes more beautiful." (Review of Religions, December, 1997) The true purpose of a human being's life is the worship of God, the attainment of His understanding and complete devotion to Him.He should follow him perfectly as a slave follows his master.Allah has created human − beings with the faculties that are appropriate for this aim, and revealed the Holy Qur’an so that he may seek Allah through it.Thus, a Muslim's first − − duty is to serve His Creator; to worship Him and to follow His commands.This is known as " ".His second duty is to serve humanity, Haququllah ± − − " ", for this is a part of worship.A Muslim can show his love Haququl Ibad ‘ ± − − for His Creator by expressing love and compassion for all His creation.(Pathways to Paradise, A Publication of the Lajna Ima’illah, USA, p.2) − − MEANS OF ATTAINING PURPOSE OF LIFE Man has been given a lease of life on this planet for the primary purpose of cultivating within himself Divine attributes, whereby he may become an embodiment of righteousness, shedding heavenly light wherever he treads.There is no worthier goal in life than the acquisition of holiness and righteousness, which Muslims have been exhorted to cultivate through obedience to the Laws of God Almighty.God Almighty has not only clearly stated the purpose of man's life but He has also guided mankind through His Messengers and Books (Divine Scriptures) to the means of achieving the purpose of life.The object of human existence, being the winning of Allah's − pleasure, the means for the attainment thereof is obedience to Allah, and − the visible illustration of that ideal is to be found in the Holy Prophet.sa Thus, the highest spiritual awards are attainable only through obedience to Allah and the Holy Prophet.sa − God Almighty states in the Holy Qur’an: − 24

Page 25

− ÁÈμ§ ɼ»A ¨ÃA ÅÍh»A ©¿ ¹ »ËB¯ ¾Ìmj»AË É¼»A ©ñÍ Å¿ Ë ‘ s æ ê æ ä ä å Õ ä ä æä ä æ ê ì ä ä ä Ó ê Ð Ø å ä ä æ å ì ä ä Õ ê ê í æ ä ä ¹ »ËA ÅnYË ÅÎZ¼v»AË ÕEfÈr»AË ÅδÍfv»AË ÅÎJÄ»A Å¿ s ä Ó ê Ð Ø å ä å ä ä ä ô æ ê ê Õ ä ê ä ä í ä ä æ ê æ é ê é ê ä ä é × ê ì ä éê B´Î¯i , È í æ ê ä wa mañyyuti ‘illaha warrasula fa ‘ula’ika ma'alladhina ± − − − − an‘amallahu ‘alaihimmi nannabiyyina wassiddiqina − − ± ± − − washshuhada’i wassalihina wa hasuna ‘ula’ika rafiqa − ± ± − ± − ± − − And whoso obeys Allah and this Messenger shall be among those of His − on whom Allah has bestowed His blessings, namely, the Prophets, the − Truthful, the Martyrs, and the Righteous.And excellent companions are these.(4:70) This verse of the Holy Qur’an reveals that the doors are even open − to the higher realms of spiritual attainment, wherein lie terraces of blessings as far as the eye of the soul can see, because both in this life and in the next life, rewards are graded according to individual achievement.The Holy Prophet has said the following about achieving the sa purpose of life ɼ»A ¾Ìmi O¨Àm : ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi Ó¼ÇBJ»A Ò¿B¿A ÓIA ŧ ê Õ ä æ å ä å æ ê ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä é ê ê ê ä æ ä ä ä å æ ê ä æ ä ¸nÀa A̼u Ë É¼»A AÌ´MA : ¾B´¯ ªAeÌ»A ÒVY Ó¯ KñbÍ ‘ D æ å ä æ ä æ í ä ä ä Õ å ì ê ä ä ä ê ä ä æ ê ì ä æ ê å å æ ä ·j¿A AgA ĄÎA Ë ¸»AÌ¿A ÑB·k AËeA Ë ·jÈq AÌ¿ÌuË ‘ ‘ ‘ æ å å å Ø ä ê æ å æ êä ä æ å ê ä æ ä ä ä ä æ í ä ä æ å ä æ ä æ å æ å ä ¸Ii ÒÄU A̼afM ‘ æ å éê ä ä ì ä æ å å æ ä 25

Page 26

− ‘an abi umamatal bahiliyyi qala: sami‘tu rasulallahi yakhtubu ra sa − − − − − − ± fi hajjatil wada‘i faqala: ittaqullaha wa sallu khamsakum wa − ± − − − ± − sumu shahrakum wa addu zakata amwalikum wa ati‘u idha ± − − − − − ± − − − amurukum tadkhulu jannata rabbikum − − Abu Umamah Bahili relates: I heard the address of the Holy Prophet on ra sa − − − − the occasion of the Farewell Pilgrimage in the course of which he said: 'Be mindful of your duty to Allah, observe the five Prayers and the Fast − of Ramadan, pay the duly and obey those in authority among you; Zakat ± − − you will enter the Garden of your Lord.' (Tirmidhi Kitabus Salat Bab Ma Yat‘allaqu Bis-Salat) − − ± − − − ± ± − Promised Messiah and Mahdi in his book, " as The Philosophy of the − Teachings of Islam" has mentioned the following eight means of achieving − the purpose of life: i.The first means of achieving this goal, the purpose of life, is to recognize God Almighty correctly and to believe in the True God.ii.The second means is to be informed of the perfect beauty of God Almighty; for the heart is naturally drawn to beauty, the observation of which generates love in the heart.iii.The third means of approach to God is knowledge of His Beneficence; for beauty and beneficence are the two incentives of love.iv.The fourth means of achieving the true purpose of life appointed by God Almighty is supplication.v.The fifth means of achieving the purpose of life appointed by God Almighty, is striving in His cause; that is to say we should seek God by spending our wealth in His cause and by employing all our faculties in furthering His cause, and 26

Page 27

− by laying down our lives in His cause and by employing our reason in His cause.vi.The sixth means of achieving this purpose has been described as steadfastness, meaning that a seeker should not get tired or disheartened and should not be afraid of being tired.vii.The seventh means of achieving the purpose of life is to keep company with the righteous, and to observe their perfect example.viii.The eighth means of achieving the purpose of life is visions and true dreams and revelation.(The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, p 108-113, − Published: 1996) Worship of God is not confined only to prayer and meditation but embraces every thought, word and action; for whatever we think, say or do for the sake of God is an act of worship.While we are connected with this world, our goal in life should be self-purification.We should seek the attainment of this goal through prayer and constant effort in reflecting the attributes of God in our general behavior.High is the goal and tremendous the task; efforts made in this direction are always most rewarding.We should never despair despite our failures and weaknesses but rather find inspiration in the following words of Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II : ra ± ± − − − ± − ± − − ± "Islam rescues man from despair and tells him that he can, in spite − of his errors and mistakes, attain the purity of mind and conduct which is the highest goal of man.It thus encourages him to make constant efforts towards virtue and purity and enables him ultimately to arrive at his goal." (Review of Religions, Vol.LXXXV, No.9, 1990, p 24) 27

Page 28

− SIGNIFICANCE OF RELIGION Religion helps man to achieve the object of life.Religion guides man into communion with his Maker, and through such communion, puts him in beneficent accord with his fellow beings, all of the creatures and servants of the same Creator, the One, without associate.It is the function of religion to furnish guidance on this behalf.How shall man know his Creator? How shall he form a concept of His attributes? What means shall he adopt to put himself in communion with Him? The Qur’an sets forth − complete and perfect guidance on these and other cognate questions.God Almighty says in The Holy Qur’an: − Ôfȼ» BÄμ§ ÆA , Ð å æä ä æ ä ä ì ê inna ‘alaina lal huda − − Surely, it is for Us to guide.(92:13) Religion is the way of life that should enable each individual to attain to the highest possible development in the spiritual, moral and physical spheres.Its function is to establish and maintain the most harmonious relationship between man and his Maker on the one hand, and between man and man on the other.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has defined religion as follows: as − "Religion of a man is the way of life he adopts for himself.Everybody must have a religion.Even the person who does not believe in the existence of God has to adopt a way of life and that way is his religion.But of course, what one should ponder over is whether the way he has adopted is the one that gives him sincere steadfastness, eternal joy and unending contentment.28

Page 29

− Behold! Religion is a very common word.Literally, it means a walkway or a path.The word 'Religion' does not necessarily connote religion.The experts in various branches of knowledge - sciences, arts, archeology, chemistry and astrology - have a religion of their own.None can be without it.It is a must for man; one can not be without religion.Just as the soul of a man stands in need of a body and the interpretations need words and a mode of talking, the same way, man is in need of religion.I do not want to go into a discussion of what people say to the one they worship: Whether they say Allah or God or Premeshar.Give Him any − name you like, but let me know what do you think of Him? What are His attributes in your mind? It is the 'attributes of God' which matter the most, and these are what one should ponder about." (Malfuzat Vol.II, p 236) − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further states: as − "The purpose of religion is that man should obtain deliverance from his passions and should develop personal love of God Almighty through certain faith in His existence and His perfect attributes.Such love of God is the paradise which will appear in diverse shapes in the Hereafter.To be unaware of the true God and to keep away from Him and not to have any love for Him is Hell, which will appear in diverse shapes in the Hereafter.Thus the true purpose is to have full faith in Him." (Chashma Masihi, pp 20-23) − ± − THE CONTINUITY OF RELIGION Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV writes about aba ± ± − ± − ± − − ± religion: "We believe in the continuity and universality of religion.That is why Islam lays emphasis on the institution of Prophethood as a universal − phenomenon, which means that Prophets have to be accepted in their 29

Page 30

− totality.Rejection of one out of the community of Prophets is tantamount to rejection of all, because, in fact, one bows to the Prophets only in view of their hailing from the same source.In this context, the term 'continuity' should be understood as something that is similar but not exactly like the evolution of life.We believe in the progressiveness of the message, advancing in step with general human progress in all spheres of human activity.It appears that the earlier forms of revealed religions, though possessing the same fundamental teachings, covered relatively smaller areas of detailed instruction.That is to say, a smaller number of do's and don'ts.These then gradually grew into a larger number of imperatives and prohibitions covering a wider field of human activity.Also, it appears that religions belonging to the ancient civilizations addressed themselves to comparatively smaller audiences belonging to particular tribes, clans or regions.Their messages were confined to the requirements of the time.They could be more aptly described as tribal, clannish or national religions.The case of the Children of Israel and Judaic teachings is a fitting illustration to prove the point.The historic trend of development, therefore, can be summarized as twofold: 1.A progressive elaboration and comparative perfection of the teachings.2.A progressive shift from smaller to larger denominations.Continuity does not mean that the same religion that was revealed to Adam continued to address mankind and underwent a gradual progressive change, widening its field of instruction and address.What it means is that in different parts of the world, where different civilizations took root and flourished, Divine revelations gave birth to such religions with corresponding social developments of man in those parts of the world.All of these religions, however, were developing in the same general direction." (Christianity: A Journey from Facts to Fiction, pp 123-124) 30

Page 31

− The Apex of Religious Development Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV writes aba ; ± ± − ± − ± − − ± "Of all such religious denominations, we believe the one in the Middle East was being nurtured and cultured to give birth to such major religions as would serve the main stem of religious evolution in the world.This is quite evident from a study of religious history.Judaism followed by Christianity, followed by Islam, clearly indicates the direction of the − evolution of religious teachings.Among these religions, the progression of teachings can easily be traced back and forth and is found to be deeply interrelated.It is highly important, therefore, to understand this grand scheme of things which was to result, and did result, in the consummation of these teachings in the form of a universal religion, Islam." − (Christianity: A Journey from Facts to Fiction, p 124) Unity of Religions The principle that the Prophet Muhammad testifies to the truth of sa ± all previous revelations, furnishes a strong foundation for harmony between the various religions of the world, as well as for the unity of the human race.The fact that all of the foregoing Prophets testify to the truth of Prophet Muhammad constitutes a yet stronger testimony to the truth of sa ± Islam and the unity of religions.The Prophets who lived thousands of − years ago, and in countries distant from Arabia, all foretold the advent of the mighty Prophet of Islam.In fact, those very Prophets might well have − impelled both Jews and Christians to settle down in Arabia; for the land of the Promised Prophet was specified by name in their Scriptures.(Muhammad in the Bible, Khalil A.Nasir, Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam,USA) sa ± − − ± − 31

Page 32

− 2 ISLAM AND A MUSLIM − Islam is the name given by God Almighty to the true religion − revealed by Him.Islam is an Arabic word.Literally the word Islam means, − − Peace and submission; Surrender of one's Will; and to be in amity and concord with the Will of Allah.The significance of the name Islam is the − − attainment of a life of perfect peace and eternal happiness through complete surrender to the Will of God.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − AhÇ Ó¯ Ë ½J³ Å¿ Ê ÅÎÀ¼nÀ»A ¸Àm ÌÇ ‘ ä Ð æ ê ä å æ ä æ ê ö ä æ ê ê æ å æ å å Õ ä ä å huwa sammakumul muslimina min qablu wa fi hadha − − − − − He (God) named you Muslims before, and in this (The Holy both Book Qur’an).(22:79) − Ým A ɼ»Afħ ÅÍf»A ÆA ’ j å ä æ ê ê Õ ä æ ê ä æ é ê ì ê innaddina ‘indallahil islam − − − Surely, the religion with Allah is Islam (complete submission).true − − (3:20) Islam is the religion that provides true understanding of God and − prescribes His true worship.Islam is inherent in human nature and humans − 32

Page 33

− are created in accord with Islam.Islam teaches that the highest reach of − − human faculties is to meet God, the Exalted, through purification of the soul by worshipping Him and performing good deeds.Islam is the essence of all truth.There is not a single fundamental − verity that is not comprised in the Holy Qur’an.Islam is a living faith and − − claims to be able to place the relationship of man with God on the same plane as it was in the days long past.Islam does not consider revelation − and communion with God to be a thing of the past.It believes that the avenues of spiritual bliss trodden upon by Noah , Abraham , Moses , as as as Jesus and, above all, the Holy Prophet of Islam , are still open and as sa − beckoning to those desirous of close communion with God.One of the distinctive characteristics of Islam is that it requires its − followers to believe that all the great religions of the world that prevailed before it were sent by God.It requires faith in all Prophets and in the revelation that was vouchsafed to them.It is thus a universal possession and a perfect guide.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ½Î¨ÀmA Ë ÇjIA Ó»A ¾lÃA F¿Ë BÄλA ¾lÃA F¿Ë ɼ»BI BÄ¿A A̻̳ ‘ ä æ ê Ð æê ä ä × Ð æê Ð Ø ê ä ê æå ä ä ä æ ä ê ä ê æå ä ä ê Õ ê ì ä Ð æ Ø å æ å F¿Ë ÓnΧ Ë ÓmÌ¿ ÓMËA F¿Ë ¢BJmÜAË LÌ´¨Í Ë μZmA Ë ä ä Ð æ ê ä Ð æ å ä ê æ å ä ä ê ä æ æ ä ä ä æ å æ ä ä ä Ð æê ä É» ÅZÃ Ë ÁÈÄ¿fYA ÅÎI ¶j°Ã Ü ÁÈIi Å¿ ÆÌÎJÄ»A ÓMËA ( k ä å æ ä ä ó æ å æ éê î ä ä ä æä å é ê ä å ä æ ô ê éê ì æ ê ä æ í ê é ä ä ê æ å ÆÌÀ¼n¿ , ä æ å ê æ å qulu amanna billahi wa ma unzila ilaina wa ma unzila ila − − − − − − − − − ibrahima wa isma‘ila wa ishaqa wa ya‘quba wal asbati wa ma − − − − ± − − − ± − ‘utiya musa wa ‘isa wa ma ‘utiyannabiyyuna mirrabbihim la − − − − − − − − − nufarriqu baina ahadimminhum wa nahnu lahu muslimun ± ± − − Say ye: 'We believe in Allah and what has been revealed to us, and what − was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob and his 33

Page 34

− children, and what was given to Moses and Jesus, and what was given to all other Prophets from their Lord.We make no difference between any of them; and to Him we submit ourselves'.(2:137) Islam presents itself as a universal religion.The Holy Qur’an states − − that it is a Message for all the worlds and the Prophet of Islam is the − Messenger for the whole of humanity: ÅÎÀ¼¨¼» j·g ÜA ÌÇ ÆA , ö ä æ ê ä Ð æéê Ñ æ ê ì ê ä å æ ê in huwa illa dhikrullil ‘alamin − − − It is nothing but a Reminder unto all the worlds (81:28) B¨ÎÀU Á¸Î»A ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÓÃA pBÄ»A BÈÍBÍ ½³ ä æ ê ä æ å æ ä ê ê Õ å æ å ä æ éê ê å ì ä í ä Ð Ø æ å qul ya ayyu hannasu inni rasulullahi ilaikum jami‘a − − − − − − − Say, 'O mankind! truly I am a Messenger to you all from Allah.' (7:159) − Islam, not only proclaims its universal character, but also lays − claim to being eternal.Islam is declared in the Holy Qur’an to be the − − perfected religion for the benefit of mankind, after which no new teachings would be revealed to annul the teachings of Islam.− God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − OÎyi Ë ÓNÀ¨Ã Á¸Î¼§ OÀÀMAË ¸ÄÍe ¸» O¼À·A ÌλA ‘ ‘ ’ å æ ê ä ä æ ê ä æ ê æ å æ ä ä å æ ä æä ä æ å ä æ ê æ å ä å æ ä æ ä ä æ ä æä BÄÍe Ým A ¸» ’ j ‘ í È æ ê ä ä æ ê å å ä al yauma akmaltu lakum dinakum wa atmamtu ‘alaikum − ni‘mati wa raditu lakumul islama dina − ± − − − 34

Page 35

− This day have I perfected your religion for you and completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as religion (5:4) − Islam, as the above verse of the Holy Qur’an states, is the − − completion of the religion inaugurated by God in the beginning of the world, on His sending the Qur’an through the Holy Prophet Muhammad.sa − ± As a child is taught his alphabet, so God taught the religion to the world gradually and little by little, by sending His Prophets at different times and to different peoples.When the world reached that stage of understanding when it was ready for the final lesson, He sent the last and the complete Book through the Holy Prophet Muhammad.This Book not only corrects the errors sa ± which had found their way into various religions, but preaches the truths which have not been preached before, on account of special circumstances of the society or the early stage of development.At the same time, it gathers together, the truths which were contained in the Divine revelation granted to any people for the guidance of men.Lastly, it meets all the spiritual and moral requirements for an ever advancing humanity.God Almighty says about the Holy Qur’an: − ÒÀγ KN· BÈί , È Ñ ä é ê ä Ñ å å ä æ ê fiha kutubun qayyimah − − Therein are the everlasting teachings.(98:4).(Synopsis of Religious Preaching, A.U.Kaleem, pp 63-64) Of the great faiths, Islam is unique in several aspects.It is the only − one that does not rely on any myth or mystery.It is based upon the certainty of proven and acknowledged facts.Muhammad , the Prophet of sa ± Islam, was a historical figure, and lived his life in full light of day.The − revelation vouchsafed to him, over a period of twenty three years, has been 35

Page 36

− fully safeguarded in the Holy Qur’an according to the Divine promise set − out in the Qur’an itself: − ÆÌ¤°Z» É» BÃA Ë j·h»A BÄ»là ÅZà BÃA , ( ä æ å ê Ð ä ä ì ê ä ä æ é ê ä æ ì ä å æ ä ì ê inna nahnu nazzalnadhdhikra wa inna lahu la hafizun − ± − − ± − ± − Verily, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian.(15:10) Islam is a very comprehensive religion.It presents a way of life − and gives guidance under all possible situations.Islam covers the entire − sphere of human activities.Furthermore, in Islam, the beliefs must be − reflected in actions.Islam delivers a message of peace to its adherents in − their relationship to fellow human beings as well as in their relationship to God.Islam condemns discrimination based on nationality, color or social − class.There can be no master-race, aristocracy or priesthood.The most noble in the eyes of God being the most pious.Thus, Islam is distinct from − other faiths in providing a comprehensive code of social and moral behavior.Islam conforms to human nature and fulfills all human needs.− Furthermore, Islam is the only religion that accepts previous teachings and − their bearers as coming from God.It does stipulate however, that these teachings have been tempered with, and can no longer be relied on as true guidance.Islam teaches that the Holy Qur’an incorporates in itself the true − − meanings of these previous teachings, and that its own integrity will always be guarded by Allah Himself.This acceptance and incorporation of − other scriptures makes Islam a truly universal religion.− Some of the distinctive features of Islam are: − 1.Islam holds God to be the Creator of the Universe and − presents His Unity in stark, simple terms; comprehensible and appealing both to a rustic and an intellectual.Islam − calls God a Perfect Being, the Fountainhead of all excellences and free of all blemishes.He is the Living God who manifests Himself everywhere and Who loves His 36

Page 37

− creation and listens to their supplications.None of His attributes have been suspended; He, therefore, communicates with mankind as before and has not barred the avenues to reach Him directly.2.Islam holds that there is no contradiction between God's − Word and His Deed.It, thus, frees us from the traditional rivalry between science and religion, and does not require man to believe in anything beyond the laws of nature determined by Him.God Almighty urges us to ponder nature and to put it to beneficent use, for everything has been created for the benefit of mankind.3.Islam neither makes idle claims nor compels us to believe − what we do not understand.It supports its teachings with reason and explanation, satisfying our intellect and the depths of our soul.4.Islam is not based on myths or folklore.It invites everyone − to experiment for himself and holds that truth is always verifiable, in one form or another.5.The revealed Book of Islam is unique, distinguishing it − from all other faiths.Despite their collective efforts over centuries, its opponents have not been able to equal even a small portion of this wondrous Book.Its merit lies not only in its unique literary excellence, but also in the simplicity and comprehensiveness of its teachings.The Qur’an − proclaims that it is the best teaching -- a claim made by no other revealed Book.6.The Qur’an claims that it combines the best features of − earlier Scriptures, and all enduring and comprehensive teachings have been placed within its fold.The Holy Qur’an says: − 37

Page 38

− ÓmÌ¿ Ë ÎÇjIA ±Zu Ó»ËÜA ±Zv»AÓ°» AhÇ ÆA , ‘ , Ð æ å ä ä æ ê Ð æê ê å å ö Ð æ æ å ê å í ê ä ä Ð ì ê inna hadha la fissuhufil ‘ula suhufi ibrahima wa musa − − ± ± ± − − ± ± − − − − This indeed is in the former Scriptures -- The what is taught Scriptures of Abraham and Moses (87:19-20) 7.A distinctive feature of Islam is that its revealed Book is in − a living language.Is it not curious that the languages of all other revealed Books are either dead or no longer in general use? A living Book, it seems, has to be in a living and ever-enduring language.8.Another distinction of Islam is that its Prophet passed sa − through every imaginable stage of human experience, starting from an impoverished and orphaned childhood and ending as the undisputed ruler of his people.His life has been documented in minute detail and reflects unparalleled faith in God and constant sacrifice in His way.He lived a full and eventful life, packed with action, and has left behind an example of perfect conduct in every sphere of human endeavor.This is only fitting and proper, as he was living interpretation of the Holy Qur’an, and by personal − example lighted the way of mankind for all time to come -- a role not fulfilled adequately by any other Prophet.9.Many prophecies contained in the Holy Qur’an have been − fulfilled over the ages and have reinforced the faith of its followers in the existence of the All-Knowing and Living God.This process continues to this day.The recent discovery of the preserved body of the Pharaoh who had driven Moses and his people out of Egypt fulfills the prophecy contained in the following verse of the Holy Qur’an: − 38

Page 39

− ÒÍA ¹°¼a ÅÀ» ÆÌ¸N» ¹ÃfJI ¹ÎVÄà ÌλB¯ ’ í È ä Ð ä ä æ ä æ ä ê ä æ å äê ä ê ä äê ä æ é ê äå ä æ ä æ ä fal yauma nu najjika bi badanika litakuna liman khalfaka − − ayah − So this day We will save thee in thy body that thou alone mayest be a Sign to those after thee.(10:93) who come Another example of the fulfillment of the Qur’anic − Prophecy is about the development of new means of destruction, where fire would be locked in minute particles which would stretch and agitate before exploding with a ferocity that would cause mountains to evaporate.Êef§ ËÜB¿ ©ÀU Ôh» A ÑlÀ» ÑlÀÇ ½¸» ½ÍË , ( , ö ä ì ä ì í ä ä ä ä æ ê ì ö ê ä ä í î ä ä å é ê å éê Ñ æ ä B¿Ë ÒÀñZ»AÓ¯ ÆhJÄλ Ý· Êf¼aA É»B¿ ÆA KnZÍ , , ( ( Ø ä ä ó ê ä ä å æ ê ì ä ä æ ë å ä ì ä ô ä ä æä Ø ä ä ì ä å ä æ ä ÜA Ó¼§ ©¼ñM ÓN»A Ñf³ÌÀ»A ɼ»AiBà ÒÀñZ»A B¿ ¹ ieA , , r æ ä ä ä å ê ì ä æ êì ö å ä ä æ å æ ê Õ å ä È å ä ä å æ ä ä Ð æä ÑefÀ¿ fÀ§ Ó¯ ÑfuÛ¿ ÁÈμ§ BÈÃA Ñf ¯ , , , s î ä ì ä í î ä ä æ ê ö Ñ ä ä æ í æ ê æ ä ä ä ì ê È ê ä Ó ê æ wailulli kulli humazatillumazati nilladhi jama‘a ma − − lañwwa ‘addadahu yahsabu anna ma lahu akhladah − ± − − kalla layumbadhanna fil hutamah wa ma adraka mal ± ± − − hutamah narullahil muqadatullati tattali‘u ‘alal af’idah ± ± − − − − ±± innaha ‘alaihimmu'sadatun fi ‘amadimmu maddadah − ± − Woe to every backbiter, slanderer.Who amasses wealth and counts it time after time.He thinks that his wealth will make him immortal.Nay, he shall surely be cast into ? And "Al-Hutamah" ± ± what should make you know what the is? Allah's "Hutamah" It is ± ± − kindled fire.Which will leap at hearts.It will be enclosed against them, in extended columns.(104:2-10) 39

Page 40

− This Surah, from one angle, refers to life after death, and − from another angle, it is a prophecy regarding development of an Atom Bomb.The Word ' utamah' refers to Atom and the H ± ± extraordinary energy in it.(Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth, Hadrat Mirza ± ± − Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV , pp 613-617) aba ± − ± − − ± 10.Another feature of Islam is, that while it talks of the − Hereafter and life after death, it also prophesies future events of this world, the fulfillment of which reinforces the faith of its followers in life after death.11.Islam is distinct from other faiths in providing a − comprehensive code of conduct in individual, collective and international dealings.These directions encompass every imaginable situation, and include the relationship between the young and the old, the employer and the employee, among family members, between friends and partners, and even between adversaries.The rules and principles enunciated are truly universal and have already stood the test of time.12.Islam proclaims complete equality among mankind, − irrespective of differences of caste, creed and color.The only criterion of honor it accepts is that of righteousness, not of birth, riches, race or color.The Holy Qur’an says: − ¸´MA ɼ»Afħ ¸¿j·A Æ A ‘ ‘ È æ å Ð æä ê Õ ä æ ê æ å ä ä æ ä ì ê inna akramakum ‘indalla hi atqakum − − Verily, the most honorable among you, in the sight of Allah, is he − who is the most righteous among you.(49:14) 40

Page 41

− And again the Holy Qur’an says: − ¹ »ËB¯ ſ̿ ÌÇ Ë ÓRÃA ËA j·g Å¿ BZ»Bu ½À§ Å¿ s ä Ó ê Ð Ø å ä Ñ ê Ù å ä å ä Ð æå æ ä î ä ä æ éê í ê ä ä ê ä æ ä LBnY jάI BÈί ÆÌ³kjÍ ÒÄV»A ÆÌ¼afÍ , î ä ê ê æ ä ê ä æ ê ä æ å ä æ å ä ì ä æ ä æ å å æ ä man ‘amila sali-hammin dhakarin au untha wa huwa ± − ± − mu’minun fa ula’ika yadkhulunal jannata yurzaquna − − − fiha bi ghairi hisab − − ± − Whoso does good, whether male or female, and is a believer-- these will enter the Garden; they will be provided therein without measure.(40:41) 13.Islam presents a definition of good and evil that − distinguishes it from all other faiths.It does not hold natural human desire to be evil; it only calls their inordinate and improper satisfaction to be evil.Islam teaches that our − natural inclinations should be regulated and channeled so as to make them constructive and beneficent for society.14.Islam has not only made women heirs to property, but has − also given them equal rights with men, though not in a manner that would disregard the distinctive features of their anatomy and their exclusive responsibilities in the rearing and nursing of children.(Distinctive Features of Islam: pp 12-15) − God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an to the followers of the Holy − Prophet : sa ¸ÎIA Ò¼¿ XjY Å¿ ÅÍf»AÓ¯ ¸Î¼§ ½¨U B¿Ë ¸JNUA ÌÇ ‘ ‘ ‘ æ å æê ä ä ì ê È î ä ä æ ê ê æ é ê ê æ å æ ä ä ä ä ä ä ä æ å Ð ä æ ä å 41

Page 42

− - AhÇ Ó¯ Ë ½J³ Å¿ 5 ÅÎÀ¼nÀ»A ¸Àm ÌÇ ÎÇjIA ‘ ‘ ä Ð æ ê ä å æ ä æ ê ö ä æ ê ê æ å æ å å Õ ä ä å ä È æ ê Ð æê huwajtabakum wa ma ja‘ala ‘alaikum fiddini min haraj millata − − − ± abikum ibrahim; huwa sammakumul muslimina min qablu wa − − − − − fi hadha − − − He has chosen you, and has laid no hardship upon you in religion; so follow the faith of your father Abraham; He (God) named you Muslims both Book before and in this (The Qur’an).(22:79) − Addressing Muslims, God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − pBļ» OUjaA Ò¿A jÎa NÄ· ‘ ê ì ê æ ä ê æå î ì å ä æ ä æ å æ å kuntum khaira ummatin ukhrijat linnasi − You are the best people raised for the good of mankind.(3:111) The word Muslim has been used before Islam.God Almighty says − in the Holy Qur’an about Prophet Ibrahim : as − − − BÀ¼n¿ B°ÎÄY ÆB· Ÿ» ËBÎÃAjvÃ Ü ËBÍeÌÈÍ ÎÇjI A ÆB· B¿ ‘ È í ê æ í í æê ä ä ä æ ê Ð ì þ ê ä æ ä ä ì þ ê æ å ä å æ ê Ð æ ê ä ä ä ma kana ibrahimu yahudiñyyañwa la nasraniñyyañwwa lakin − − − − − − ± − − kana hanifammuslima − ± − Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was ever inclined to God and to Him obedient (3:68) 42

Page 43

− ÅÎÀ¼¨»A Lj» OÀ¼mA ¾B³ Á¼mA ÉIi É» ¾B³ gA , ( ( ä æ ê ä Ð æ é ê ä ê å æ ä æ ä ä ä æ ö ê æ ä Ø í ä ä ä ä æê idh qala lahu rabbuhu aslim qala aslamtu li rabbil‘alamin − − − − − − When his Lord said to him, 'Submit', he said, 'I have submitted to the Lord of the worlds.' (2:132) One who submits and follows the laws of Islam is called a Muslim.− Thus, a Muslim is a person who makes peace with God, the Creator, and His creation There are very clear guidelines pertaining to the definition of.a Muslim, to be found in the Holy Qur’an, and in the traditions of the Holy − Prophet.sa The Holy Qur’an describes the righteous Muslims as: − Èijki BÀ¿Ë Ñ̼v»A ÆÌÀÎ´Í Ë Kά»BI ÆÌÄ¿ÌÍ ÅÍh»A ‘ æ å Ð æ ä ä ì ê ä ä Ð ì ä æ å æ ê å ä ê æ ä æ ê ä æ å ê Ù å ä æ ê ì Ë ¹¼J³ Å¿ ¾lÃA B¿Ë ¹Î»A ¾lÃA BÀI ÆÌÄ¿ÌÍ ÅÍh»AË ÆÌ´°ÄÍ , ä ô ä ê æ ä æ ê ä ê æå Ø ä ä ä æ ä ê ä ê æå Ø ä ê ä æ å ê Ù å ä æ ê ì ä ö ä æ å ê æå ÆÌijÌÍ Ç ÑjaÜBI , ‘ È ä æ å ê æ å æ å ê ä ê æ Ð ê alladhina yu’minuna bilghaibi wa yuqimunassalata wa − − − − ± ± − mimma razaqnahum yunfiqun.walladhina yu’minuna − − − − bima unzila ilaika wama unzila min qablika wa bil akhirati − − − hum yuqinun.− − Who believe in the unseen and observe Prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them; And who believe in that which has been revealed to thee, and that which was revealed before thee, and they have firm faith in what is to come.(2:4-5) yet The Holy Prophet says: sa ¼nÀ»A ¹»h¯ BÄNZÎIg ½·A Ë BÄN¼J³ ½J´NmAË BÄM̼u Ó¼u Å¿ ‘ å ê æ å æ ä ê Ð ä ä ä ä æê ä ä ä ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä æ ä æ ä ää Ð ä Õ ä æ ä 43

Page 44

− _ ÉN¿g Ó¯ ɼ»A AËj°bM ݯ É»Ìmi Ò¿gË É¼»A Ò¿g É» Ðh»A ( × ê ì ê æ ê ä Õ å ê æ å ä ä × ê æ å ä å ì ê ä ê Õ å ì ê ä æ ê ì man salla salatana wastaqbala qiblatana wa akala dhabihatana ± − ± − − − − − fadhalikal muslimulladhi dhimmatullahi wa dhimmatu − − − rasulihi fala tukhfirulla-ha fi dhimmatihi − − − − − − Whoever offers his Prayers as we do, and turns his face to the to Qibla which we turn our faces and partakes of our is surely a Muslim Dhabiha − ± who is under the protection of Allah and His Messenger; Therefore, − violate not the guarantee granted by Allah.− (Bukhari,Vol.1, Bab Fadl Istiqbalul Qiblati) − − − ± − Imam Abu Hanifa says: − − − "Whoever intends to enter the fold of Islam, let him solemnly − declare and believe that there is none worthy of worship but Allah and − Muhammad is His Messenger.If he does this, he is surely a Muslim even ± if he is unaware of the fundamental injunctions of Islam." − (Commentary of the Fiqh-i-Akbar by Imam Abu Mansur Muhammad − − − ± Bin Muhammad Hanifa, p 34) ± − UNIFICATION OF HUMANITY THROUGH ISLAM − All religions expect the Messiah to come in the Latter Days, relatively close to the end of this physical world as we know it.Secondly, they all expect this person to be a "Second Coming" of some type, usually of a Prophet they have to come to give a special place to, or even idolize.Examples can be seen from all the major religions: the Hindus expect Shri Nishkalank Avtar Mahdi Mir , The Sikh's scriptures call him , The − − Zoroasterians hope for the appearance of , the third spiritual son Soashyant of Zoroaster.The Buddhists believe that - the future Buddhisttua Maitreya Buddha, will ultimately descend from his present abode in one of the 44

Page 45

− Heavens.In Judaism, belief in and fervent expectation of the Messiah are firmly established tenets.Christians, since the early times after Paul have been expecting the second coming of Jesus Christ.The Muslims are also expecting the same Christ to descend from Heaven, but as a Muslim.And the Shi'ite Muslims believe that the " " who mysteriously Hidden Imam − disappeared 1100 years ago, they say, will come back as Imam Mahdi.− − Obviously, all these expectations are to be fulfilled in a single person and not many.(The Muslim Sunrise, 1988, p 3) Hadrat Muhammad Zafrulla Khan writes about unification of ra ± ± ± ± − humanity through Islam: − "The world of religion is familiar with the concept of the second advent of great religious teachers who have passed away, but curiously enough all those who are looking forward to the fulfillment of the prophecies relating to the second advent of a great teacher expect that he would return to the earth in his physical body.This concept has been responsible for great confusion, bewilderment and conflict.ÈI AÌ´Z¼Í BÀ» ÈÄ¿ ÅÍjaAË ‘ ‘ È æ ê ê æ å ä æ ä ì ä æ å æ ê ä æ ê ä Ð ä wa akharina minhum lamma yalhaqu bi him − − − ± − And others from among them who have not yet joined them.among (62:4) The above verse of the Holy Qur’an indicates a second spiritual − advent of the Holy Prophet.In this case, however, there has never been sa any expectation that the Holy Prophet would return to earth in his sa physical body.His second advent was expected to be fulfilled through the appearance of one so completely devoted to him as to be a spiritual reflection of him....45

Page 46

−...One question that needs to be considered in respect of the almost universal expectation of the second advent in the Latter Days of a great teacher is, what would be the message and function of that teacher? Such an advent has been prophesied in almost all the principal faiths that flourish today upon the earth.Would the message and function of everyone of them be identical or would each of them have his own message different from and in conflict with the messages of the other great teachers in their second advent? If the messages of all of them are to be identical, then not more than one would be needed to convey that message and to set an example in conformity with it.If the messages are to be different and conflicting, the advent of so many teachers, instead of promoting unity, peace, accord and spiritual fulfillment, would only foster hostility, discord, enmity and chaos.If everyone of these great teachers is to appear within the dispensation of each respective faith, would he uphold the values of that faith as originally set forth, or would he depart from them; and if the latter, what would be the scope of his doctrines and teachings? Either contingency would raise problems that would be difficult to resolve.Mankind, during the last two centuries or so, has been pressing forward towards a unity of aim and purpose, and all the developments that have taken place to bring different sections of society into close relations with each other, afford the strongest indication that the great teacher of the Latter Days would be a single person and there would not be a plurality of personages.It is agreed among the Muslims that the Prophecy mentioned in the following verse of the Holy Qur’an will be fulfilled through the advent of − the Prophet of the Latter Days, that is to say, one who will be the Mahdi − and the Messiah: ¼§ ÊjȤλ μZ»A ÅÍe Ë ÔfÈ»BI É»Ìmi ½miA Ôh»A ÌÇ  ( ( ä ä ä ê æ åê é ê ä æ ê æ ê ä Ð å æ ê ä æ å ä ä ä æ ä æ Ø ê ì ä å ÆÌ·jrÀ»A Êj· Ì» Ë É¼· ÅÍf»A , ä æ å ê æ å æ ä ê ä æ ä ä × ö é ê å ê æ é ê 46

Page 47

− huwalladhi arsala rasulahu bil huda wa dinil haqqi li − − − − − ± yuzhirahu ‘aladdini kulli hi wa lau karihal mushrikun ± − − − − He it is Who sent His Messenger with guidance and the religion of truth, that He may make it prevail over every religion, even though the other idolaters may dislike (9:33) it.There is a very strong presumption that the great teacher of the Latter Days would appear within the dispensation of Islam.This − presumption is upheld by many factors.Some of the factors are: 1.The scripture of Islam, the Holy Qur’an, clearly and − − definitely proclaims the universality of the mission of the Holy Prophet.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: sa − ÅÎÀ¼¨¼» ÒÀYi ÜA ¹Ä¼miA F¿Ë , ä æ ê ä Ð æéê í ä æ ä ì ê ä Ð æ ä æ ä ä ä wa ma arsalnaka illa rahmatallil ‘alamin − − − ± − − And We have sent thee not but as a mercy for all peoples.(21:108) É» Ôh» A B¨ÎÀU Á¸Î»A ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÓÃA pBÄ»A BÈÍBÍ ½³ ( ä æ ê ì ä æ ê ä æ å æ ä ê ê Õ å æ å ä æ é ê ê å ì ä í ä Ð Ø æ å ~i ÜAË PÌÀn»A ¹¼¿ ô ê æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì å æ å qul ya ayyu hannasu inni rasulullahi ilaikum jami‘a − − − − − − − nilladhi lahu mulkussa mawati walard − − − − ± Say, 'O mankind! truly I am a Messenger to you all from Allah to − Whom belongs the Kingdom of the heavens and the earth.(7:159) 47

Page 48

− AjÍhÃ Ë AjÎrI pBļ» Ò¯B· ÜA ¹Ä¼miA F¿Ë í æ ê ä ì í æ ê ä ê ì éê í ì ä Ø ì ê ä Ð æ ä æ ä ä ä wa ma arsalnaka illa ka‘ffa tallinnasi bashirañwwa − − − − − nadhira − − And We have not sent thee but as a bearer of glad tidings and a Warner, for all mankind (34:29 ) 2.The scripture of Islam contains comprehensive guidance for − the whole of mankind for all times.ÒÀγ KN· BÈί ÑjÈñ¿ B°Zu A̼NÍ É¼»A Å¿ ¾Ìmi , , È Ñ ä éê ä Ñ å å ä æ ê ö í ä ì ä í í å å æ å æä ê Õ ä éê Ñ æ å ä rasulummi nallahi yatlu suhufammu tahharatan − − − ± ± ± fihakutubun qayyimah − − A Messenger from Allah recites Scriptures purified.Therein are − the everlasting teachings.(98:3-4) ÅÎÀ¼¨¼» j·g ÜA ÌÇ ÆA , ä æ ê ä Ð æéê Ñ æ ê ì ê ä å æ ê in huwa illa dhikrullil ‘alamin − − − It is nothing but a Reminder for peoples.(38:88) all 3.The Qur’an is the only Scripture that has been safeguarded − against perversion under Divine decree.ÆÌ¤°Z» É» BÃA Ë j·h»A BÄ»là ÅZà BÃA , ( ä æ å ê Ð ä ä ì ê ä ä æ é ê ä æ ì ä å æ ä ì ê inna nahnu nazzalnadhdhikra wa inna lahu la hafizun − ± − − ± − ± − Verily, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and most 48

Page 49

− surely We will be its Guardian (15:10) 4.There is the promise contained in the Holy Qur’an, already − referred to that in the Latter Days, a Prophet would be raised in Islam who would not only defend Islam against the − − concerted attacks of the followers and exponents of other faiths, but would establish the superiority of Islam in every − respect over all other religions ( ) The Qur’an, 9:33 − commentators of the Holy Qur’an agree that the promise − contained in this verse would be fulfilled through the Mahdi-Messiah, whose advent in the Latter Days had been − foretold by the Holy Prophet.sa 5.Islam is the only faith that requires belief in all of the − Prophets, wherever and whenever they might have appeared.jÍhà BÈί Ýa ÜA Ò¿A Å¿ ÆA Ë , Ñ æ ê ä ä æ ê ä ä ì ê î ì å æ éê æ ê ä wa immin ummatin illa khala fiha nadhir − − − − − And there is no people to whom a Warner has not been sent.(35:25) 6.It is obvious that the great teacher, whose advent in the Latter Days has been foretold in every one of the principal revealed religions of the world, would be Divinely guided; that is to say, he would be the recipient of Divine revelation.There has been general agreement among the Muslims that the Mahdi th -Messiah would appear at the beginning of the 14 century of the − Hegira, th corresponding roughly to the last decade of the 19 century of the Christian Era." (Ahmadiyyat: The Renaissance of Islam, pp vii-xii, Published:1978) ± − 49

Page 50

− Ahmadi Muslims ± − The expected reformer of the age has already appeared.His name is Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, India, the Holy founder of the ± ± − − ± Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, or the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.± − ± Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad claimed in 1889 that he is the as ± ± − − ± expected Reformer and established the Ahmadiyya Movement.± Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad announced: as ± ± − − ± "When the thirteenth century of drew to a close and the Hegira beginning of the fourteenth century approached, I was informed by God Almighty, through revelation, that I was the , "The Reformer", of Mujaddid the fourteenth century." (Kitabul Bariyya, p 168, footnote) − Later on, in 1891 Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad announced that he as ± ± − − ± is the Promised Messiah, mentioned in the prophecies of the Holy Prophet Muhammad , and Jesus in the Bible.He claimed that he had come in the sa as ± power and spirit of Jesus , and that his personality and character bore as close resemblance to Jesus , and that like him, in Mosaic dispensation, he as was a Messiah in the Islamic dispensation.He also claimed that like − Jesus , he was a Prophet of God but a subordinate, a deputy and a strict as follower of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad sa ± ± ± − − ± of Qadian also claimed that in his person he fulfilled the prophecy of the as second coming of Jesus.He explained that Jesus was a Prophet of God as as who had died like other human beings and that whenever there is a prophecy of the second coming of a Prophet, it is always metaphorical meaning the coming of someone closely resembling the earlier one.(The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, p 11) − 50

Page 51

− The founder of the Ahmadiyya Community derived inspiration and ± guidance from the Holy Prophet of Islam, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa.sa − ± ± ± ± ± He neither pronounced a new religion, nor permitted any religious innovation.The central point of his mission was the revival and resurgence of Islam.− A Muslim who believes in all the principles and tenets of Islam, as − pronounced by the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Prophet Muhammad − ± Mustafa , and who believes Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian to be sa ± ± ± ± − − ± the Promised Messiah and , as prophesied by the Founder of Islam Mahdi − − Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa , and who in all controversial issues accepts sa ± ± ± ± ± his interpretation of Islam as the only true interpretation, and believes in − the institution of , is called an.The claims and the Khilafat Ahmadi Muslim − ± − mission of Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi are presented in detail as ± ± − on pages of this book.230-235 51

Page 52

− 3 THE ISLAMIC BELIEFS − (THE ARTICLES OF FAITH) Islamic teachings can be divided into two broad categories, namely − belief ( ) and practice.The former deals with the philosophy ‘Iman (‘Amal) − − of Islam while the latter deals with the practical implementation.The − essence of almost all the tenets of Islam has been mentioned in the Holy − Qur’an in the following words: − Ÿ» Ë Lj¬À»AË ¶jrÀ»A ½J³ ¸ÇÌUË AÌ»ÌM ÆA jJ»A oλ ‘ ì ê Ð ä ê ê æ ä æ ä ê ê æ ä æ ä ä ê æ å ä æ å å æ í ä å æ ä ì ê æ ä æ ä ÓMA Ë ÅÎJÄ»AË KN¸»AË Ò¸ ¼À»AË jaÜA ÂÌλAË É¼»BI Å¿A Å¿jJ»A s ä Ð ä ä ô é × ê ì ä ê Ð ê æ ä ê ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä æ ä ê ê æ Ð ê æ ä æ ä ê Õ ê ä ä Ð æ ä ì ê æ ½ÎJn»A ÅIAË ÅθnÀ»AË ÓÀNλAË ÓIj´»A ÔËg ÉJY Ó¼§ ¾BÀ»A ê ö æê ì ä æ ä ä æ ê Ð ä æ ä Ð Ð ä æ ä Ð æ å æ ê ä × é ê å Ð ä ä ä æ ÆÌ¯ÌÀ»AË ÑÌ·l»B MA Ë Ñ̼v»A B³A Ë LB³j»AÓ¯ Ë Åμ Fn»AË  ’ r ä æ å æ å æ ä ô ä Ð ì ä Ð ä ä Ð ì ä ä ä ä ê ô ä é ê ê ä ä æ ê Ó ê ì ä pBJ»A ÅÎY Ë ÕEjz»AË ÕFmBJ»AÓ¯ ÅÍjJv»AË AËfȧ AgA ÇfȨI ‘ ê È æ ä æ ä æ ê ä ê ì ì ä ê ä æ ä æ ê ä æ ê ê Õ ä ô æ å ä Ð ä ê æ ê ê æ ä ê ÆÌ´NÀ»A Ç ¹ »ËA Ë A̳fu ÅÍh»A ¹ »ËA ‘ s s , ä æ å ì å æ å å ä Ó ê Ð Ø å ä È æ å ä ä ä æ ê ì ä Ó ê Ð Ø å laisal birra an tuwallu wujuhakum qibalalmashriqi wal − − maghribi wa la kinnal birra man amana billahi wal yaumil − − − akhiri wal mala’ikati wal kitabi wannabiyyin wa atal mala ‘ala − − − − − − − − hubbi-hi dha wilqurba wal yatama wal masakina wabnassabili ± − − − − − − − wassa’ilina wa firriqab wa aqamassalata wa atazzakata wal − − − − ± ± − − − mufuna bi ‘ahdihim idha ‘ahadu wassabirina fil ba’sa’i − − − − − ± ± − − − waddarra’i wa hinalba’s ‘ula’ikalladhina sadaqu ± ± − ± − − − ± − 52

Page 53

− wa ‘ula’ika humul muttaqun − − It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East or the West, but truly righteous is he who believes in Allah and the Last Day and the − angels and the Book and the Prophets, and spends his money for love of Him, on the kindred and the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask , and for the captives; and who for charity ransoming observes Prayer and pays the Zakat; and those who fulfill their promise − when they have made one, and the patient in poverty and afflictions and the steadfast in time of war; it is these who have proved truthful and it is these who are the God-fearing.(2:178) Islamic Beliefs are stated in the following tradition of the Holy − Prophet : sa ɼ»A ¾Ìmi fħ BÄ· ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi LBñb»A ÅI jÀ§ ŧ ê Õ ê æ å ä ä æ ê ì å ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ê ì ä æ ê æ ä ä å æ ä Ü j¨r»A eAÌm fÍfq ,LBÎR»A ~BÎI fÍfq ½Ui ÕFV¯ D ä ê æ ì ê ä ä å æ ê ä ê ä é ê ê ää å æ ê ä Ñ å ä ä ä ä ÓJÄ»A ÓMA ÓNY fYA BÄ¿ ɯj¨Í Ü Ë j°n»A jQA Éμ§ ÔjÍ D ( ì ê ì ä ä Õ ä Ñ ä ä ì ê å ê æ ä ä ä ê ä ì å ä ä ê æ ä ä Ð å Å¿ÌM ÆA ¾B³ ?ÆBÀÍÜA B¿ !fÀZ¿ BÍ ¾B³ ÁQ ÉNJ·jI ÉNJ·i ¶l»B¯ ( ä ê Ù å æ ä ä ä å ä æ æê ä å ì ä å ä ä ä ì å × ê ä æ å ê ä ä æ å ä ä æä ä Ë ÊjÎa if´»AË jaÜA ÂÌλAË É¼mi Ë ÉJN· Ë ÉN¸ÖÝ¿ Ë É¼»BI ä × ê æ ä ê æ ä æ ä ê ê æ Ð ê æ ä æ ä × ê å å ä × ê å å ä × ê ä êä ä ä ê Õ ê - Êjq × é ê ä ‘an ‘umarabnil khattabi qala kunna ‘inda rasulillahi fa ja'a ra sa ±± − − − − − − rajulun shadidu bayadiththiyabi, shadidu sawadishsha‘ri la − − − − − − yura ‘alaihi atharussafari wa la ya‘rifuhu minna ahadun hatta − − − − ± ± − atannabiyya fa alzaqa rukbatahu bi rukbatahi thumma qala sa − − − ya muhammadu! mal-‘iman? qala: "an tu'mina billahi wa − − − − − mala'ikatihi wa kutubihi wa rusulihi wal yaumil akhiri − − − − − 53

Page 54

− walqadri khairihi wa sharrihi".− − 'Umar ibn Khattab relates that they were sitting in the company of the ra ±± − Holy Prophet when suddenly a man arrived.He was wearing clean white sa clothes, and his hair was jet black.He did not look as though he was a traveler, and he was not known to anyone there.He sat down close to the Holy Prophet , his knees touching the knees of the Holy Prophet.He sa sa said: "O Muhammad, Tell me something about faith." The Holy Prophet sa ± replied: "Faith is that you should believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books − and His Prophets; that you should believe in the Day of Judgement and you should believe in the Divine laws regarding good and evil." (Tirmidhi Kitabul ‘iman Bab fil wasf Jibril annabiyyul ‘iman wal Islam) − − − − − ± − − − − Islam has six fundamental articles of faith, which must be − professed by everyone who desires to become a Muslim.a 1.Unity of All h (Tauhid) − ± − 2.Angels 3.Books 4.Prophets 5.The Day of Judgment 6.Divine Decree (Taqdir) − 1.Unity of Allah ( ) Tauhid − ± − The first article of faith in Islam is to firmly believe in the absolute − Oneness of God.Acknowledgment of the Oneness of Allah is the most − important and the cardinal principle of Islam.It is a Unity which is − unsplittable and indivisible, and one which cannot be multiplied or compromised in any form.The belief in the Unity of God influences man's life in all its aspects.All other beliefs spring from this Fountainhead of eternal truth.To deny Allah's Oneness, and to associate any other with Him − ( ), is the gravest sin in Islam.i.e., Shirk − 54

Page 55

− The Islamic Concept of God Almighty − Islam holds God to be the Creator of the universe and presents His − Unity in simple terms.Islam calls God a Perfect Being, the Fountainhead − of all excellencies and free of all blemishes.He is a Living God who manifests Himself everywhere and Who loves His creation and listens to their supplications.None of His attributes have been suspended; He, therefore, communicates with mankind as before, and has not barred the avenues to reach Him without intercession.Islam's doctrine of Unity is absolute and unsplittable; it has no − room for adding to the Godhead in any form.He has neither a father nor a mother, nor has He a spouse.For Him to give birth to sons and daughters is inconceivable.The Qur’an is insistent upon the Unity of God and emphatically − condemns any doctrine, idea, or concept which might directly or indirectly tend to associate any other thing or being with God as a partner or equal.The Holy Qur’an says about God Almighty: − Å¸Í »Ë f»ÌÍ »Ë 5f¼Í » fÀv»A ɼ»A fYA ɼ»AÌÇ ½³ ‘ , ‘ ‘ , , æ å ä æ ä ä ö æ ä æ å æ ä ä ö æ ê ä æ ä ô å ä ì å Õ ä ô Ñ ä ä å Õ ä å æ å fYA A̰· É» , ( Ñ ä ä í å å ì qul hu wallahu ahad alla hussamad lam yalid wa lam yulad wa − − ± ± − lam ya kullahu kufuwan ahad − ± Say, 'He is Allah, the One; 'Allah, the Independent and Besought of all.− − 'He begets not, nor is He begotten; 'And there is none like unto Him.' (112-2-5) The Holy Qur’an not only excludes the idea of any equal or partner − with Allah, it specifically excludes all ideas of His having a son except in − 55

Page 56

− the pure metaphorical sense in which all mankind are His children.God is Ever-Living, All-Knowing, All-Hearing, the Creator of all, Whose authority extends over everything.To attribute a son, in any but the purely metaphorical sense, to God, would amount to denial of His Unity, and in effect to a denial of His Godhead.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − PÌÀn»AÓ¯ B¿ É» f»Ë É» ÆÌ¸Í ÆA ÉÄZJm fYAË É»A ɼ»A BÀÃA ( ( ( ê Ð Ð ì ê ä ä Ñ ë ä ä ä ä æ å ì æ ä Ø ä Ð æ å È Ñ ê ì Ñ Ð ê å Õ ä ì ê ~iÜA Ó¯ B¿ Ë ê È æ æ ä ê ä ä inna mallahu ilahuñwwahid subhanahu añyya kuna lahu − − − ± ± − − − − valadum lahu ma fissamawati wa ma filard − − − − − ± Verily, Allah is the only One God.Far is it from His Holiness that He − should have a son.To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth.(4:172) The subject of Divine attributes is an extensive one, and the Qur’an − treats it with a wealth of variety and detail.Indeed, each attribute could in itself form the subject of a whole treatise.As illustration of the manner in which the Qur’an approaches and treats various aspects of Divine − attributes, it may perhaps suffice to conclude with the following: B¿ É» ÂÌà ÜË ÒÄm ÊhaBM Ü ÂÌδ»A ÓZ»A ÌÇ ÜA É»A Ü É¼»A ( ( Œ ä ä È Ñ æ ä ä ì Ñ ä ê å å æä ä ô å æ í ä æ í ä æä ä ô å ì ê ä Ð ê ä Ø å Õ ä ÉÃgBI ÜA Êfħ ©°rÍ Ôh»A Ag Å¿ ~iÜA Ó¯ B¿Ë PÌÀn»A Ó¯ ( × È ê æ êê ì ê Ø ä æ ê å ä æ ä æ ê ì ä æ ä ê È æ æ ä ê ä ä ê Ð Ð ì ê ÉÀ¼§ Å¿ ÕÓrI ÆÌñÎZÍ ÜË È°¼a B¿Ë ÈÍfÍA ÅÎI B¿ ¼¨Í ‘ ‘ ‘ × Ø ê æ ê æ éê î æ ä ê ä æ å æ ê å ä ä æ ô å ä æ ä ä ä æ ê æ ê æ ä ä æä ä å ä æ ä BÀȤ°Y ÊeÌ_Í ÜË ~iÜAË PÌÀn»A ÉÎmj· ©mË ÕFq BÀI ÜA ( ô ä å å æ ê å æ Û ä ä ä ä ô æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì å í ê æ å ä ê ä ä ô ä ä ê ì ê Τ¨»A Ó¼¨»A ÌÇ Ë ,‘ å æ ê ä æ í ê ä æ ä å ä 56

Page 57

− allahu la ilaha illa huwa al-hayyul qayyum la ta'khuzu hu − − − ± − − − sinatuñwwa la naum lahu ma fissamawati wa ma filard man − − − − − − ± dhalladhi yashfa‘u ‘indahu illa bi idhnih ya‘lamu ma baina − − − aidihim wa ma khalfahum wa la yuhituna bi shai 'immin − − − ± − ± − ‘ilmihi illa bima sha'a wasi‘a kursiyyu hussamawati walard − − − − − − ± wa la ya'uduhu hifzuhuma wa huwal ‘aliyyul ‘azim − − − ± ± − ± − Allah --- there is no God but He, the Living, the Self-Subsisting and − All-Sustaining.Slumber seizes Him not, nor sleep.To Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth.Who is he that will intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what is behind them; and they encompass nothing of His knowledge except what He pleases.His throne extends over the heavens and the earth; and the care of them burdens Him not; and He is the High, the Great." (2:256) (Islam: Its Meaning for Modern Man, pp 91-95) − The Holy Qur’an further says about God Almighty: − ÆÌ¸Î¯ Å· É» ¾Ì´Í BÀÃB¯ Aj¿A z³ AgA , (  å æ å ä ä æ å ä å æ å ä ä ì ê ä í æ ä ê ä ä ê idha qada amran fa innama yaqulu lahu kun fa yakun − ± − − − − − When He decrees a thing, He says to it, 'Be!' and it is (3:48) 'The expressions " 'Be!' and it is" does not indicate spontaneous transformation into existence from nothingness.It means that the moment God wills, His will begins to take shape and ultimately is done as He desires.' (Explanation of the translation by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV ) aba ± ± − − ± A tradition of the Holy Prophet about Allah the Exalted is as sa − follows: 57

Page 58

− ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Aj³ ¾B³ BÀÈħ Ó»B¨M ɼ»A Óyi jÀ§ ÅI ɼ»AfJ§ ŧ ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ä ä ä å æ ä Ð ä ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä å ê æ ê Õ ê æ ä æ ä , ÉÄÎÀÎI OÍÌñ¿ PÌÀn»AË :jJÄÀ»A Ó¼§ ÌÇ Ë ÒÍÜA ÊhÇ D × ê æ ê ä ê Ñ ë é Ð ê æ ä å Ð Ð ì ä ê ä æ ê æ ä ä ä å ä ä ä æ Ð ê ê Ð ,iBJV»ABÃA ɼ»A ¾Ì´Í ¾B³ - ÆÌ·jrÍ BÀ§ ¼¨M Ë ÉÄZJm  ( å ì ä æ ä ä å Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä æ å ê æ å ì ä Ð Ð ä ä ä Ð æ å ¾Ìmi ½¨V¯ ¾B³ Én°Ã fVÀÍ ¾B¨NÀ»ABÃA , ¹¼À»ABÃA ,jJ¸NÀ»ABÃA ( å æ å ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä æ ä å é ê ä å å ä ä å æ ä ä å ê ä æ ä ä å é ê ä ä å æ ä ä ÉI jbÎm ÉÃA BÄÄ£ ÓNY jJÄÀ»A BÈI ±Ui ÓNY ,BÇeejÍ É¼»A ( D × ê í ê ä ä ì ä ì ä ä Õ ä å ä æ ê æ ä ê ä ê ä Õ ä ä å éê ä å ê Õ an ‘abdillah hibni ‘umara qala qara-a rasulullahi hadhi-hil ra sa − − − − − − ayata wa huwa ‘alalminbari: wassamawatu matwiyyatun bi − − − ± − yaminihi, subhanahu wa ta‘alla ‘amma yushrikun qala − − ± − − − − − yaqulullahu anal jabbaru, anal mutakabbiru, anal maliku, anal − − − muta‘alu yumajjidu nafsahu qala faja‘ala rasulullahi sa − − − − − yuraddidu-ha, hatta rajifa bihal minbaru hatta zananna − ± − ± − ± − anna-hu sayakhirru bihi − − Hadrat Abdullah bin Umar relates The Holy Prophet stated, while ‘ ‘ ra sa ± ± − delivering a sermon from the pulpit: ÆÌ·jrÍ BÀ§ ¼¨M Ë ÉÄZJm ÉÄÎÀÎI OÍÌñ¿ PÌÀn»AË ,  ( ä æ å ê æ å ì ä Ð Ð ä ä ä Ð æ å È × ê æ ê äê Ñ ë é Ð ê æ ä å Ð Ð ì ä So will the heavens be rolled up by His right hand.Glory to Him and Exalted is He above that which they associate with him.(39:68) The Holy Prophet further stated that God Almighty Says: sa Én°Ã fVÀÍ ¾B¨NÀ»ABÃA , ¹¼À»ABÃA ,jJ¸NÀ»ABÃA ,iBJV»ABà A ( ä æ ä å éê ä å å ä ä å æ ä ä å ê ä æ ä ä å é ê ä ä å æ ä ä å ì ä æ ä ä 'I am the One Who has complete power to reform, conscious of My Greatness, The Sovereign, The Lofty.' In this way, God Almighty states 58

Page 59

− His Glory and Grandeur.The Holy Prophet kept repeating these words sa so forcefully that the pulpit started shaking and we were concerned lest it should collapse under him.(Musnad Ahmad) ± Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about the Oneness of as ± ± − God: "The mere lip-service of the Oneness of God does not attract the blessings that are linked with the true profession of Oneness of God, along with other essentials, i.e.the appropriate deeds.It is quite true that the belief in the Oneness of God is a strong pillar to which a true Muslim and every other person who really and truly fears God should hold fast, but there is another aspect of this belief also and that is the love of God.One should love God.The main aim of the teachings of the Holy Qur’an is that just as − God is One, without any partner, He should also be One without partner in the matter of our love.All the Prophets have been teaching the same thing; that has been the main subject of their propagation.ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü ä Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä There is none worthy of worship except Allah − La ilaha illallah teaches us to believe God to be One, and at the same time − − − it also implies that one should be perfect in the love of this One God.La − ilaha illallah is so beautiful a sentence, and so meaningful that the like of it − − is not to be found in any of the Scriptures, be it Torah or the Gospels or any other Book; no other Book contains so comprehensive a teaching.Ilah − means the Beloved who is worshipped.This is the fundamental point of Islam and it denotes complete and perfect love.It should be remembered − well that if one believes in the Oneness of God, but does not love Him, hisbelief is faulty and incomplete." 59

Page 60

− (Malfuzat, Vol.III, p 187) − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes about God as − Almighty: " Hearken ye who have ears to hear; what is it that Allah requires of − you? Only this, that you should become His alone and set up no equal with Him, neither on this earth nor in Heaven.Our God is the One Who is alive today as He ever was; likewise He speaks today as He did in the past; He hears as He used to hear.To think that He only listens, but does not speak in this age is a vain belief.Indeed, He both hears and speaks.All His attributes are eternal and everlasting.None of His attributes were ever suspended, nor will they ever be.He is the same Unique Being Who has no associate; He has neither son nor wife; and He is the same Eternal Being Who is peerless, and there is none like unto Him; there is no one similar to Him in His attributes; none of His powers ever wane.He is near, yet far; distant, yet close.He is the Highest of the High, yet it cannot be said that there is anyone below Him farther than He.He is in Heaven, but it cannot be said that He is not on earth.He combines in Himself all the most perfect attributes and manifests the virtues which are truly worthy of praise.He is the Fountainhead of all excellence; He is the All-Powerful.Everything good originates from Him and to Him all things return; all possessions belong to Him, in Him all excellencies combine.He is free from blemish, without weakness.He is unique in His right to be worshipped by all who dwell on the earth or belong to Heaven." (Al-Wasiyyat, pp 309-310, Ruhani Khaza’in vol.20) ± − − − − The unity of God illuminates Allah's true dignity, it places man on − the rightful station and except for Allah's fear, eliminates all other fears − from his heart.When man's belief, that the universe and all it's arrangement is for man's progress and service, is strengthened, he then reflects and engages himself in finding out the real benefits - it is then that he discovers a new erudition every day.60

Page 61

− God's Attributes (Divine Names) The Holy Qur’an says: − BÈI Ȩ̂eB¯ ÄnZ»A ÕBÀm ÜA ɼ» Ë  ð ä ê å æ å æ ä Ð æ å æ å Ø ä æ æ ä ê Õ ê ä wa lillahil asma’ul husna fad‘uhu biha − − ± − − − And to Allah belong perfect attributes.So call on Him by these.alone all − (7:181) The Holy Qur’an further says: − É» \JnÍ ÄnZ»A ÕFÀmÜA É» iÌvÀ»A ÔiBJ»A μ»Bb»A ɼ»A ÌÇ (  ä å éê ä å È Ð æ å æ å ä æ æ ä å ä å é ê ä å æ Û ê ä æ å ê ä æ å Õ ä å θZ»A lÍl¨»A ÌÇË ~iÜA Ë PÌÀn»AÓ¯ B¿ ,‘ å æ ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ ä å ä ê ô æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì ê ä huwalla hul khaliqul bari’ul musawwiru lahul asma’ulhusna − − − ± − ± − yusabbihu lahu ma fissamawati walard wa huwal ‘azizul ± − − − − ± hakim ± − He is Allah, the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner.His are the most − beautiful names.All that is in the heavens and the earth glorifies Him, and He is the Mighty, the Wise.(59:25) A tradition of the Holy Prophet about Allah the Exalted is sa − as follows: ÆA ɼ»A ¾Ìm i ¾B³ : ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ D ì ê ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä ÒÄV»A ½ae BÇ BvYA Å¿ BÀmA ÅΨnM Ë Ò¨nM Ó»B¨M ɼ» ä ì ä æ ä ä ä ä ä æ ä æ ì í æê ä æ êæ æ ê ä í ä æ ê Ð ä ä ê Õ ê 61

Page 62

− ,pËf´»A ,¹¼À»A , ÎYj»A ,ÅÀYj»A ÌÇ ÜA É»A à Ôh»A ɼ»A ÌÇ ‘ å æ í å æ å ê ä æ å æ ê ì å Ð æ ì ä å ì ê ä Ð ê ä æ ê ì å Õ ä å μ»Bb»A ,jJ¸NÀ»A ,iBJV»A ,lÍl¨»A ,ÅÀÎÈÀ»A ,Å¿ÛÀ»A , Ýn»A ’ å ê ä æ å éê ä ä å æ å ì ä æ å æ ê ä æ å ê æ ä å æ å ê æ å æ å ä ì ,`BN°»A ,¶Akj»A ,LBÇÌ»A ,iBÈ´»A , iB°¬»A ,iÌvÀ»A ,ÔiBJ»A å ì ä æ å ì ì å ì ä æ å ì ä æ å ì ä æ å é ê ä å æ Û ê ä ä æ ,¾hÀ»A ,l¨À»A ,©¯Aj»A ,|¯Bb»A ,¡mBJ»A ,|IB´»A , 쨻A ‘ í ê å æ í ê å æ å ê ì å ê ä æ å ê ä æ å ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ , μZ»A ,jÎJb»A ,±Îñ¼»A ,¾f¨»A , ¸Z»A ,jÎvJ»A ,©ÎÀn»A ‘ ‘ å æ ê ä æ å æê ä æ å æ ê ì å æ ä æ å ä ä æ å æ ê ä æ å æ ê ì ,OδÀ»A ,¥Î°Z»A ,jÎJ¸»A ,Ó¼¨»A ,i̸r»A ,ḭ¬»A , Τ¨»A ‘ å æ ê å æ å æ ê ä æ å æê ä æ í ê ä æ å æ å ì å æ å ä æ å æ ê ä æ ,©mAÌ»A ,KÎVÀ»A ,Kγj»A , Íj¸»A ,½Î¼V»A ,KÎnZ»A ‘ å ê ä æ å æ ê å æ å æ ê ì å æ ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ ,½Î·Ì»A ,μZ»A ,fÎÈr»A ,S§BJ»A ,fÎVÀ»A ,eËeÌ»A , θZ»A ‘ å æ ê æ í ä æ å æ ê ì å ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ å æ å ä æ å æ ê ä æ ,fΨÀ»A ,ÙfJÀ»A ,ÓvZÀ»A ,fÎÀZ»A ,ӻ̻A ,ÅÎNÀ»A ,ÔÌ´»A å æ ê å æ å ê æ å æ æ ê æ å æ å æ ê ä æ í ê ä æ å æê ä æ í ê ä æ ,fYAÌ»A ,fUBÀ»A ,fUAÌ»A , Ìδ»A ,ÓZ»A ,OÎÀÀ»A ,ÓZÀ»A ’ å ê ä æ å ê ä æ å ê ä æ å æ í ä æ í ä æ å æ ê å æ × å æ jaÜA ,¾ËÜA ,jaÛÀ»A , f´À»A ,ifN´À»A ,ieB´»A ,fÀv»A ,fYÜA ’ å ê æ Ð å ì æ ä å éê ä å æ å é ê ä å æ å ê ä æ å å ê ä æ å ä ì å æ ä , ´NÄÀ»A ,LAÌN»A ,jJ»A ,Ó»B¨NÀ»A ,Ó»AÌ»A ,ÅBJ»A ,jÇB¤»A ‘ å ê ä æ å æ å ì ì í ä æ ê ä ä å æ ê ä æ å ê ä æ å ê ì ,¡n´À»A , Aj· AË ¾ÝV»AËg ,¹¼À»A ¹»B¿ ,²ËÕj»A ,̰¨»A ’ j å ê æ å æ ê ä æ ê ä ê ä ä æ æ å ê æ å æ å ê ä å æå ì í å ä æ ,ÔeBÈ»A ,iÌÄ»A ,©¯BÄ»A ,iBz»A ,©ÃBÀ»A ,ÓĬÀ»A ,ÓĬ»A ,©¿BV»A æ ê ä æ å æ í å ê ì í Ø ì å ê ä æ æ ê æ å æ í ê ä æ å ê ä æ _iÌJv»A ,fÎqj»A ,TiAÌ»A ,Ó³BJ»A , ©ÍfJ»A å æ å ì å æ ê ì å ê ä æ æ ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ an abi hurairata qala qala rasulullahi inna lillahi ta‘ala ra sa − − − − − − − − tis‘atanwwa tis‘ina ismamman ahsa ha dakhalal jannata − ± ± − − 62

Page 63

− howalla hulladhi: la ilaha illa huwa ar-Rahmanu, ar-Rahimu, − − − − − − ± − ± − al-Maliku, al-Quddusu, as-Salamu, al-Mu’minu, − − al-Muhaiminu, al-‘Azizu al-Jabbaru, al-Mutakabbiru, , − − al-Khaliqu, al-Bari’u, al-Musawwiru, al-Ghaffaru, − − − ± − al-Qahharu, al-Wahhabu, ar-Razzaqu, al-Fattahu, al-‘Alimu, − − − − ± − al-Qabidu, al-Basitu, al-Khafidu, ar-Rafi'u, al-Mu‘izu, − ± − ± − ± − − al-Mudhillu, as-Sami‘u, al-Basiru, al-Hakamu, al-‘Adlu, − ± − ± − al-Latifu, al-Khabiru, al-Halimu, al-‘Azimu, al-Ghafuru, ± − − ± − ± − − ash-Shakuru, al-‘Aliyyu, al-Kabiru, al-Hafizu, al-Muqitu, − − ± − ± − al-Hasibu, al-Jalilu, al-Karimu, ar-Raqibu, al-Mujibu, ± − − − − − al-Wasi‘u, al-Hakimu, al-Wadudu, al-Majidu, al-Ba‘ithu, − ± − − − − − ash-Shahidu, al-Haqqu, al-Wakilu, al-Qawiyyu, al-Matinu, − ± − − al-Waliyyu, al-Hamidu, al-Muhsi, al-Mubdi’u, al-Mu‘idu, − ± − ± ± − − al-Muhyi, al-Mumitu, al-Hayyu, al-Qayyumu, al-Wajidu, ± − − ± − − al-Majidu, al-Wahidu, al-Ahadu, as- amadu, al-Qadiru, S − − ± ± ± ± − al-Muqtadiru, al-Muqaddimu, al-Muwikhkhiru, al-Awwalu, al-Akhiru, az-Zahiru, al-Batinu, al-Wali, al-Muta‘ali, al-Barru, − ± ± − − − − − − at-Tawwabu, al-Muntaqimu, al-‘Afuwwu, ar-Ra’ufu, − − al-Malikul-Mulki, Dhul-Jalali wal-Ikrami, al-Muqsitu, − − − ± al-Jami‘u, al-Ghaniyyu, al-Mughni, al-Mani’u, ad-Da’arru, − − − ± ± − an-Nafi‘u, an-Nuru, al-Hadi, al-Badi‘u, al-Baqi, al-Warithu, − − ± − − − − − − ar-Rashidu, as- aburu.S − ± ± − Hadrat Abu Huraira relates that the Holy Prophet said: "Besides the ra sa ± ± − name 'Allah', there are ninety nine names of God Almighty.Whosoever − keeps these names in mind and tries to be a manifestation of these names will enter Heaven." The Holy Prophet counted these names as follows: sa Allah Ta‘ala besides Whom there is none worthy of worship, The − − − Gracious, The Merciful, The Sovereign, The Holy,The Source of Peace, The Guardian of Faith, The Protector, The Mighty, The Compeller, The Majestic, The Creator, The Maker, The Fashioner, The Forgiver, The Subduer, The Bestower, The Provider, The Opener, The All-Knowing, 63

Page 64

− The Seizer, The Expander, The Depressor (of the proud), The Exalter, The Bestower of Honor, The Abaser, The All Hearing, The All-Seeing, The Judge, The Just, The Subtle One, The All-Aware, The Forbearing, The Great, The Most Forgiving, The Appreciator, The High, The Great, The Guardian, The Sustainer, The Reckoner, The Sublime, The Noble, The Vigilant, The Responder, The Bountiful, The Wise, The Loving, The Glorious, The Resurrector, The Witness, The True, The Trustee, The Powerful, The Strong, The Friend, The Praiseworthy, The One who Keeps Count , The Originator, The Restorer, The Giver of Life, The Giver of Death, The Living, The Self-Subsistent, The Finder, The Glorious, The One, The Unique (The Lord of Unity), The Eternal, The Possessor of Power and Authority, The Omnipotent, The Expediter, The Postponer, The First, The Last, The Manifest, The Hidden, The Ruler, The Most Exalted, The Beneficent, The Oft-Returning, The Avenger, The Pardoner, The Compassionate, The Lord of Sovereignty, The Lord of Majesty and Bounty, The Equitable, The Gatherer, The Self-Sufficient, The Enricher, The Preventor, The Distressor, The Benefactor, The Light, The Guide, The Incomparable, The Everlasting, The Guide to the Right Path, The Ultimate Inheritor, The Patient.(Tirmidhi Kitabud Da‘wat Bab Jami'ad-Da'wat; Hadiqatus-Salihin, pp 9-11) − − − − − − ± ± − ± − 2.Angels (Mala’ikah) − The second article relates to the belief in angels.Islam requires − belief in angels.They are spiritual beings created by Allah to obey Him − and implement His commandments.Unlike human beings, angels have no free will and cannot act independently.Under Allah's command, they bring − revelations to the Prophets, bring punishment on the Prophet's enemies, glorify Allah with His praise, and keep records of human being's deeds.− Angels are not visible to the physical eye.Yet they do sometimes appear to man in one form or another.This appearance, however, is not physical but a spiritual manifestation.The Holy Qur’an states: − 64

Page 65

− ÜA Ò¸ ¼À»A Èμ§ ¾lÄNM AÌ¿B´NmA Q ɼ»A BÄIi AÌ»B³ ÅÍh»A ÆA s ‘ ‘ ì ä å ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä æ å ê æ ä ä å ì ä ää æ å ä ä æ ì å å Õ äí ä æ å ä ä æ ê ì ì ê ÆËf§ÌM NÄ· ÓN»A ÒÄV»BI AËjrIA Ë AÌÃlZM Ü Ë A̯BbM , ‘ ä æ å ä æ å æ å æ å æ êì ê ì ä æ ê æ å ê æ ä ä æ å ä æ ä ä ä æ å ä ä innalladhina qalu rabbunallahu thummasta qamu tata nazzalu − − − − − − ‘alaihimul mala’ikatu alla takhafu wa la tahzanu wa abshiru − − − − − ± − − bil jannatillati kuntum tu‘adun − − − As for those who say, 'Our Lord is Allah', and then remain steadfast, the − angels descend on them, : 'Fear ye not, nor grieve; and rejoice in saying the Garden that you were promised.' (41:31) The Islamic Concept of Angels − The nature of angels is understood differently among the followers of different religions.Islam speaks of angels as celestial − beings who have their own entity as persons.The major role they play is the transmission of messages from God to human beings.According to the Holy Qur’an, the entire material universe as well − as the religious universe is governed by some spiritual powers, which are referred to as angels.Whatever they do is in complete submission to the Will of God and the design that He created for things.They cannot make the slightest deviation from the set course or functions allocated to them, or from the overall plan of things made by God.The Holy Qur’an says regarding angels: − ÆËj¿ÛÍ B¿ ÆÌ¼¨°Í Ë Çj¿A F¿ ɼ»A ÆÌv¨Í Ü , ‘ ä æ å ä æ å ä ä æ å ä æ ä ä æ å ä ä ä ä ä Õ ä æ å æ ä ä la ya‘sunallaha ma amarahum wa yaf‘aluna ma yu’marun − ± − − − − − Who (angels) disobey not Allah in what He commands them and do as − 65

Page 66

− they are commanded (66:7) According to the Holy Qur’an, for each human being two − angels are appointed to record good deeds and misdeeds, as the case may be.Angels are agents of God.Angels are responsible for controlling and maintaining the laws of nature.The Holy Qur’an says regarding angels: − ÈIi fÀZI ÆÌZJnÍ tj¨»A ¾ÌY Å¿ ÅίFY Ò¸ ¼À»A ÔjMË ‘ s æ ô ê éê ä ê æ ä ê ä æ å é ê ä å ê æ ä æ ê æ ä æ ê ä æ éê ä ä ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä æ ä ä ä wa taral mala’ikata ha affina min haulil ‘arshi yusabbi huna bi − ± − − ± ± − hamdi rabbi him ± And thou wilt see the angels going round the Throne, glorifying their Lord with praise.(39:76) His The Holy Qur’an further says regarding angels: − pBÄ»A Å¿ Ë Ými Ò¸ ¼À»A Å¿ Ó°ñvÍ É¼»A s ê È ì ä ê ì í å å ê ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä æ ä ê æ ê ä æ ä å Õ ä allahu yastafi minal mala’ikati rusulañwwa mi nannasi − ± ± − − − Allah chooses Messengers from among angels, and from among men.− (22:76) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi describes the following as − functions and characteristics of the angels: 1.They are external means of the fulfillment of our spiritual needs.2.Have independent existence.3.Carry out appropriate duties.4.Do not move from their appointed places.5.Are the life of the planets.6.Sometimes appear in human form.Are the cause of every change and development.7.66

Page 67

− 8.Man ranks higher than angels.9.Every angel performs a different duty.10.Descend with the advent of a.Khalifah − 11.Can be seen.(The angels, like God Almighty, are imperceptible beings.Those who possess insight behold angles with their spiritual eyes in their visions which they experience very often in a state of wakefulness.) 12.Are mediators for the spiritual development of man.13.Distribute and regulate matters.(The Essence of Islam.Vol.II, pp 110-146) − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes about angels: as − "The Holy Qur’an mentions three types of angels.First, the − particles of earthly bodies and the faculties of souls.Secondly, Heaven, the sun, the moon and the clouds of the earth that are in operation.Thirdly, the higher powers above all these like Gabriel and Michael and others which are called in the.The Holy Qur’an uses the word angel very jum Vedas − frequently.Everything that hears God's voice is His angel.Thus every particle of the world is an angel of God for it hears His voice and obeys Him." (Nas mi Da‘wat, pp 89-90) i − There are many angels in the Kingdom of Allah.Prominent among − them are: Jibra il or Jibril Mika il or Mikal ‘ ‘ (Gabriel; the angel of revelation), − − − − − − (Michael), ; the angel of 'Izra il (Malakul Maut, also called Azra il ‘ ‘ − − − Death), (Raphael).Israfil − − 67

Page 68

− 3.Books (Divine Scriptures) The third article relates to belief in the revealed books.The books in religious terms refer to Divine Scriptures.Through these books God Almighty guides Human beings to the right path.The famous revealed books consist of the (Torah) of Moses , the (Psalms of Tawrat Zabur as − − David ), and the (Gospel) of Jesus , , and the Holy as as as Injil Suhufi Ibrahim − ± ± − − Qur’an.The Holy Qur’an is the last revealed book which can not be − − canceled till the Day of Judgment.Muslims believe that Allah revealed His Laws in stages to mankind − through His Prophets, and therefore, besides the Holy Qur’an, accept − Torah Injil Zabur, Suhufi Ibrahim , , and as Holy Books.Muslims are as − − ± ± − − required to believe in sacred scriptures of all the Messengers of Allah.− However, all the earlier revelations were limited to a specific time and people and are not preserved in their original purity.All the Holy scriptures culminated in, and were perfected in, the Holy Qur’an for the − sake of man.The recognition of the truth of all Books and the recognition of the truth of all Prophets is a revolutionary declaration, which has many benefits for man as a whole.Among other things, it paves the way for inter-religion peace and harmony.4.Prophets The fourth fundamental article of faith in Islam is belief in all the − Prophets.Thus, Muslims believe in all the Prophets or Messengers sent by God Almighty and revere them.Divine guidance is a general bounty that has sustained humanity in all ages.The Qur’an tells us that there is neither a race nor a people, who − have not been blessed with the bounty of Divine guidance, and there is neither a region of the earth nor a body of people who have not received 68

Page 69

− Prophets and Messengers of God.Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: − − PÌ«Bñ»AAÌJÄNUAË É¼»A AËfJ§A ÆA ÜÌmi Ò¿A ½· Ó¯ BÄR¨I f´»Ë ä ô æ å ì å ê ä æ ä ä Õ å å æ ê ä í æ å ì î ì å é ê å æ ê ä æ ä ä æ ä ä ä walaqad ba‘athna fi kulli ummatirrasulan ani‘budullaha − − − − − wajtani buttaghut ±± − − And We did raise among every people a Messenger, : 'Worship preaching Allah and shun the Evil One.' (16:37) − The Holy Qur’an further says that even before the revelation of the − Holy Qur’an and the advent of the Holy Prophet Muhammad , Divine sa − ± Messengers had indeed been sent to every nation and every part of the globe, but their sphere was regional and their assignments temporary.This is because human civilization had not yet reached a stage of development which merited the commissioning of a universal Messenger, bearing a universal Message.Addressing the Holy Prophet God Almighty says in the Holy sa Qur’an: − BÈί Ýa ÜA Ò¿A Å¿ ÆA Ë AjÍhà ËAjÎrI μZ»BI ¹Ä¼miA FÃA ä æ ê ä ä ì ê î ì å æ éê æ ê ä È í æ ê ä ì í æ ê ä é ê ä æ ê ä Ð æ ä æ ä ì ê jÍhà , Ñ æ ê ä inna arsalnaka bilhaqqi bashirañwwa nadhira wa immin − − ± − − ummatin illa khala fiha nadhir − − − − − Verily, We have sent thee with the truth, a bearer of glad tidings and as as 69

Page 70

− a Warner; and there is no people to whom a Warner has not been sent.(35:25) According to a tradition of the Holy Prophet , the number of sa Prophets is one hundred and twenty four thousand.The Holy Qur’an − speaks of only a few of these Prophets beginning with Adam unto the as time of Muhammad.The Prophets specifically mentioned in the Holy sa ± Qur’an are: − Adam ( ), Idris ( ), Nuh ( ), Hud , Salih , as as as as as Adam Enoch Noah − − − ± − ± − Ibrahim ( ), Isma‘il ( ), Ishaq ( ), Lut ( ), as as as as Abraham Ishmael Isaac Lot − − − − ± − − ± Ya qub ( ), Yusuf ( ), Shu‘aib ( ), Ayyub ( ), Musa ‘ as as as as as Jacob Joseph Jethro Job − − − − − ( ), Harun ( ), Dhul-kifl ( ), Da’ud , ( ), Sulaiman Moses Aron Ezekiel David as as as as − − − − − ( ), Ilyas , ( ), Al-Yasa‘ ( ), Luqman *, Yunus Solomon Elijah Elisha as as as as − − − ( ), Zakariyah ( ), Yahya ( ), ‘Isa ( ) Jonah Zechariah John the Baptist Jesus as as as − − − − and Muhammad.sa ± * Whether Luqman was a Prophet is not known.as (Q/A Hadrat Khalifatul − ± ± − Masih IV 11/2000) aba − ± (Dini Syllabus for the Training of 'Nou Muba‘in', (In Urdu), − − − − − Nazarat Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, p 5) ± − − The names mentioned in the Holy Qur’an are just a few examples.− The Holy Qur’an makes it incumbent on every Muslim not only to believe − in all the Prophets, but it also clearly informs us that in every region of the world and in every age, God did raise Messengers and Prophets.Apart from Islam, none of the Divine Books of religions bear testimony on the − truth of the founders of other religions.According to the Holy Qur’an, the − institution of Prophethood is universal and forever.Muslims are admonished to believe in all other Prophets in exactly the same manner as they believe in their own Prophet.However, Muslims believe that the Holy Prophet is the greatest and the having been sent not sa Seal of the Prophets, to just one nation but to all nations and thus to all mankind.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − 70

Page 71

− Ü pBÄ»AjR·A Ÿ» ËAjÍhà ËAjÎrI pBļ» Ò¯F· ÜA ¹Ä¼miA F¿Ë ä ê ì ä ä æ ä ì ê Ð ì í æ ê ä ì í æ ê ä ê ì éê í ì ä ì ê ä Ð æ ä æ ä ä ä ÆÌÀ¼¨Í , ä æ å ä æ ä wa ma arsalnaka illa ka-affatallinnasi bashirañwwa − − − − − − nadhirañwwa lakinna aktharannasi laya‘lamun − − − − − And We have not sent thee but as a bearer of glad tidings and a Warner, for all mankind, but most men know not.(34:29) The Holy Qur’an says about believing in all the Prophets: − Ë É¼»BI Å¿A ½· ÆÌÄ¿ÛÀ»AË ÉIi Å¿ ÉλA ¾lÃA FÀI ¾Ìmj»A Å¿A ä ê Õ ê ä ä Ð ï å ä È æ å ê æ å æ ä × éê ì æ ê ê æ ä ê ä ê æå ä ê å æ å ì ä ä Рɼm i Å¿fYA ÅÎI ¶j°Ã Ü É¼mi Ë ÉJN·Ë ÉN¸ ¼¿ s × ê å í æ é ê î ä ä ä æä å é ê ä å ä × ê å å ä × ê å å ä × ê ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä amanarrasulu bima unzila ilaihi mirrabi hi walmu’minun − − − − − kullun amana billahi wa mala’ikatihi wa kutubihi wa rusulihi − − − − − − la nufarriqu baina ahadimmirrusulih − ± This Messenger believes in that which has been revealed to him of Ours from his Lord, and the believers: all believe in Allah, and in so do of them − His angels, and in His Books, and in His Messengers, , 'We make saying no distinction between any of His Messengers.' (2:286) According to the prophecies of the Holy Prophet in the fourteenth sa century, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian has come as a servant as ± ± − − ± of the Master Prophet Muhammad to be the Promised Messiah and sa ± Mahdi.− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV writes: aba ± ± − − ± 71

Page 72

− "According to Islam, all Prophets are human beings and none bears − superhuman characteristics.Wherever some miracles are attributed to Prophets, which are understood to indicate their superhuman character, the categorical and clear statements of the Qur’an reject such a notion....−...No Prophet is granted an exceptionally long term of life which makes him distinctly different and above the brotherhood of Prophets to which he belongs.Nor is any Prophet mentioned as having risen bodily to remote recesses of the universe.Wherever there is such a mention, it is spiritual ascent which is meant, not bodily ascent, which the Qur’an − categorically declares is against the character of Prophets.......The emphasis on the human characteristics of Prophets and their human limitations is one of the most beautiful features of fundamental Islamic teachings.Prophets rise above their fellow human beings not − because they were gifted with superhuman qualities, but only because they gave a better account of the qualities that they had been gifted with.They remained human despite having ascended to great spiritual heights, and their conduct as such is inimitable by other human beings." (An Elementary Study of Islam, pp 26-27) − 5.The Day of Judgment The fifth article of faith relates to the Day of Judgment.It also implies that every human being will be raised after death, and will be held answerable to God with regards to the life he had led here on earth.After belief in One God, belief in the Day of Judgement is the most emphasized doctrine mentioned in the Holy Qur’an.No other revealed − book draws such a vivid picture of Life after Death as does the Holy Qur’an.− According to the Holy Qur’an, the entire universe will come to an − end on the Day of Judgement.The dead will be resurrected and accounts will be taken of their deeds.People with good records will enter into Heaven while those with bad records will be thrown into Hell.According 72

Page 73

− to the teachings of Islam, Hell is a temporary abode while Heaven is − everlasting.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − Q ¸NÎÀÍ Q ·BÎYB¯ BMAÌ¿A NÄ·Ë É¼»BI ÆËj°¸M ±Î· ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ì å æ å å æ ê å ì å ô æ å ä æ ä ä í ä æ ä æ å æ å ä ê Õ ê ä æ å å æ ä ä æ ä ÆÌ¨UjM ÉλA Q ¸ÎÎZÍ , ‘ ‘ ä æ å ä æ å ê æ ä ê ì å æ å æê æ å kaifa takfuruna billahi wa kuntum amwatan fa ahyakum − − − ± − thumma yumitukum thumma yuhyikum thumma ilaihi − ± − turja‘un − How can you disbelieve in Allah? When you were without life, He gave − you life, and then He will cause you to die, then restore you to life, and then to Him shall you be made to return.(2:29) (The Words of Wisdom and Purification, pp 168-169) Islam teaches that physical death is not the end of a human being's − existence, rather it is the door to a higher form of life which can bring one closer to Allah, depending on one's deeds in this life.− 6.Divine Decree ( ) Taqdir − Muslims believe that Divine decree controls the eventual outcome of all actions in this universe.Within the boundaries of Divine decree, man is given free will to choose the course.We will be judged on the basis of our intentions and deeds on the Day of Judgment.If we follow Allah's − commandments, we will be rewarded and if not, we will be punished.Thus, belief in the Divine decree ( ) means to believe in both the law Taqdir − of nature and law of religion ( ) have been devised by Allah and He Shari‘ah − − 73

Page 74

− alone holds Supreme power over these laws which are operating in the universe.In the Holy Qur’an, God Almighty says: − AiËf´¿ Aif³ ɼ»Aj¿A ÆB·Ë , ö ä æ å æ ì í ä ä ê Õ å æ ä ä ä ä wa kana amrullahi qadarammaqdura − − − And the command of Allah is a decree ordained.(33:39) − The Isl mic Concept of Predestination and Free a − Will Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "Divine decrees are of two types: one may be described as suspended, and the other as absolute.The operation of a suspended decree may be averted by the grace of God Almighty through prayer and almsgiving.The operation of an absolute decree cannot be averted through prayer and almsgiving, though God Almighty bestows some other benefit in return for them.In some cases, God Almighty causes a delay in the operation of a decree.The knowledge of these two types of Divine decrees can be gathered from the Holy Qur’an." − (Malfuzat, Vol.1, p 150) − − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV writes: aba ± ± − − ± "We can divide those who believe in destiny into two major categories.Those with the commonly held blind belief in destiny portray it as predetermination by God of everything big and small.This view is popular with some cryptic sects of , who live a Sufis ± − − 74

Page 75

− life apart from the common people.They claim that man has no control over anything.Everything is predetermined.As such, all that happens is the unfolding of the grand plan of destiny, known only to God.The other view is that of free choice, with destiny playing practically no role in whatever man decides and executes......Destiny has many categories, each playing a distinct role in their respective sphere of operation, working simultaneously.The laws of nature reign supreme, and none is above the influence of them.This is the general plan of things which can be referred to as the widest concept of destiny.Whoever follows the laws of nature with profound understanding of them, will gain some advantage over others who do not.Such people are always destined to benefit and to shape a better life for themselves.But none of them is predestined to belong to any specific grouping in relation to their being on the right or wrong side of the laws of nature......The only law which is predetermined in relation to this destiny, is the unchangeable command that whoever studies nature without prejudices, and permits himself to be led to wherever the laws of nature would lead him, he would tread the path of eternal progress.This is the general and all-pervasive category of destiny which transcends everything, except the laws of destiny relating to religion.......There is no evidence to indicate that each man's life is pre-ordained, and that he has no choice or option in choosing between good and bad, right and wrong.The Holy Qur’an − categorically rejects the concept of compulsion, and clearly states that every human being is free to choose between good and evil: ÅÍf»A Ó¯ ÊAj·A Ü ê ö æ é ê ê ä ä æ ê ä Ø la ikraha fiddin − − − There should be no compulsion in religion (2:257) 75

Page 76

− OJnN·AB¿ BÈμ§ Ë OJn·B¿ BÈ» BȨmË ÜA Bn°Ã ɼ»A ±¼¸Í Ü È æ ä ä ä æ ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä ä ä ä ä ä È ä ä æ å ì ê í æ ä å Õ å é ê ä å ä la yukallifullahu nafsan illa wus‘aha laha ma kasabat wa − − − − − ‘alaiha maktasabat − Allah burdens not any soul beyond its capacity.It shall have it the reward − earns, and it shall get it incurs.(2:287) the punishment ¨m B¿ ÜA ÆBnà » oλ ÆA Ë ,  k ö Ð ä ä ì ê ê ä æ ê ê ä æ ì æ ä ä wa allaisa lil insani illa ma sa‘a − − − − And there is nothing for man but of his endeavors (53:40) the fruits However, in relation to religion, there are some spheres of destiny which are predetermined and unchangeable.They are referred to in the Holy Qur’an as the of God.One such Sunnah − Sunnah is the destiny that God's Messengers will always be victorious, whether they are accepted or not.If they are rejected, it is the opponent whose designs are frustrated.The Prophets, their Messages and missions must always prevail, regardless of how powerful their enemies may be - a few examples, in the living history of man, are the confrontations between Moses and as Pharaoh, between Jesus and his opponents, and between the Holy as Prophet Muhammad and his adversaries.sa ±...According to Islam, if God decides to favor a special − servant of His with a special manifestation of some hidden laws, such manifestations are regarded by the onlookers as miracles and supernatural events.But these things happen in accordance with the laws of nature, which are subtly controlled to bring about an amazing effect.Here, destiny plays a specific role in the life of a special servant of God.Similarly, destiny can also be understood in relation to the 76

Page 77

− generic, social, economic or educational background of the individual, who seems to be a helpless product of circumstances.This helplessness of the individual makes his destiny, over which he has no control.Thus it is said that a rich man's child is born with a silver spoon in his mouth.The circumstances in which a person is born, the society in which he is grown, the day-to-day game of chance which plays a role in everybody's life, the strikes of so-called luck in favor or against one, the accidents which one may escape or fall pray to, are all such areas where the individual has very little choice.Yet it may not be assumed that he was particularly targeted for such events or accidents, which play an important role in the making or unmaking of his life.In a larger economic plan, there are bound to be more fortunate and less fortunate people with relative advantages and disadvantages.It is wrong to say that they were individually stamped by a maker of destiny, even before their births, to be born under certain specific circumstances.Yet there are other questions to be answered.How would they be treated in relation to the crimes committed by them, as against those who are born in comparatively healthier circumstances, and who have very few, if any, background factors to egg them onto crime? If the crime is the same, shall they be treated alike? The Holy Qur’an answers this intricate question in − the following verse: BȨmË ÜA Bn°Ã ɼ»A ±¼¸Í Ü È ä ä æ å ì ê í æ ä å Õ å é ê ä å ä la yukallifullahu nafsan illa wus‘aha − − − Allah burdens not any soul beyond its capacity.(2:287) − The issue of destiny is highly complicated, but as the ultimate decision lies in the hands of the All-Knowing, All-Beneficent, All-Powerful and All-Wise God, in the final 77

Page 78

− analysis, the dictates of justice will indeed prevail.There are certain areas in which man is free to exercise his will, where he can choose between good or bad, right or wrong, and for which he will be held responsible.On the other hand, there are areas in which man has little choice of his own, and appears to be a pawn in the hand of the mover.The general plan of things in nature, which covers and controls the destinies of nations and peoples, is one such area.The circumstances of a wider application make an individual of society completely helpless; he has no choice but to move along like a straw being carried by the waves of a river in spate." (An Elementary Study of Islam, pp 53-60) − Some Other Beliefs of Muslims Apart from the six fundamental beliefs already discussed, there are many other important beliefs in Islam.Some of them are: − 1.Muslims believe that every person is born innocent and free from sin.Only when he reaches maturity of understanding and can distinguish between right and wrong, does he become accountable for his actions.2.Muslims believe that Allah does not hold anyone − responsible unless he has shown him the right way.Allah − has always sent Messengers and revelations before inflicting His punishment on people.3.Muslims are required to follow their faith with reasoning and understanding, not blindly.A person should use his powers of reasoning and reflect in his heart on Allah's − teachings.(Pathways to Paradise, A Publication of the Lajna Ima’illah, USA, p.6) − − 78

Page 79

− 4 ISLAMIC WORSHIP − The purpose of the creation of man, according to Islam, is that he − should worship Allah.− Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: − − ÆËfJ¨Î» ÜA oà AË ÅV»A O´¼a B¿Ë , j ê æ å å æ ä ê ì ê ä æ ê ä ì ê æ å æ ä ä ä ä wa ma khalaqtul jinna wal insa illa li ya‘budun − − And I have not created the Jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.(51:57) Worship is common to all religions.What differs is only the manner and style of worship.That which is unique in the Islamic mode of − worship is that it contains features from the mode of Prayers found in other religions.It is fascinating to note that Islam instructs its followers − concerning the manner of Prayer so comprehensively, that all the postures of worship found in other religions are symbolically represented in the Muslim mode of Prayer.The institution of Islamic Prayer is a most highly − developed system, covering every human requirement.The Holy Qur’an − declares that God does not stand in need of men's praises.He is so great in His nobility and so sublime in his character that the praises ofHis creatures do not add anything to His magnanimity and majesty.So, worship in the Holy Qur’an is only prescribed for the sake of the worshipper himself.− Worship plays an important role in developing one's soul.Of all the influences that work towards the making and modification of the human soul, Prayer is the most important single factor.Religious worship in Islam − is both individual and congregational.(An Elementary Study of Islam, pp 29-31) − 79

Page 80

− THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM − Islam has five basic duties which a Muslim has to perform.They − are known as the Five Fundamentals of Islam or the Five Pillars of Islam.− − The pillars of Islam are mentioned in the following of the Hadith − ± − Holy Prophet : sa AfÀZ¿ ÆA Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA ÑeBÈq oÀa Ó¼§ ÂÝm A ÓÄI j í ì ä å ì ä ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä ê ä ä ä î æ ä Ð ä å ä æ ê ä êå OÎJ»A WY Ë ÑÌ·l»A ÕFNÍA Ë Ñ̼v»A ÂB³A Ë É¼»A ¾Ìmi ( ( ( ( ê æä æ é ê ä ä ê Ð ì ê ä æê ä ê Ð ì ê ä ê ä ê Õ å æ å ì ÆBz¿i ÂÌuË , ä ä ä ä ê æ ä ä buniyal islamu ‘ala khamsin; shahadati ‘alla ilaha illallahu wa − − − − − − anna muhammadar rasulullahi; wa iqamissalati, wa ± − − − ± ± − ‘ita izzakati, wa hajjil baiti, wa saumi ramadan.’’ − − − ± ± ± − Islam is based on five (pillars): − 1) Bearing witness that there is none worth of worship but Allah, and Muhammad is His Servant and His Messenger − ± ( ) Declaration of Faith Salat 2) Observance of (Daily Prayers) ± − 3) Paying Zakat − 4) Pilgrimage to the House of Allah and (The Ka‘bah) − 5) Fasting during Ramadan ± − (Bukhari Kitabul‘ iman Bab Qaulunnabi Buniyal Islamu ‘Ala khamsin).sa − − − − − − − − − − 80

Page 81

− The and the foremost pillar of Islam is called first Kalima − Shahadah, the declaration of Islamic faith, i.e., − − ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.The belief in the Oneness of God is the basic requirement of believing in Islam.− The pillar is called , i.e.to perform Prayer in a second Salat ± − prescribed form.Prayer is the basic and most important means by which man communicates with Allah and draws himself near to Him.− The pillar is called , i.e., to keep fast in the month of third Saum ± Ramadan.By fasting, a Muslim can purify himself spiritually, elevate his ± − soul and obtain nearness to Allah.To fast is to abstain from food, drink, − smoking and conjugal relations from dawn to dusk.It was the month during which revelation of the Holy Qur’an to the Holy Prophet began.sa − The Holy Qur’an allows exemption from fasting to the elderly, the − chronically sick and children.However, they are required to feed or pay to feed the poor for the whole month of in order to make up for Ramadan ± − fasts they could not keep.Temporary exemption is permitted to those traveling, the sick, pregnant and nursing or menstruating women.They are expected to make up the fasts at a later time before the start of the next month of fasting.81

Page 82

− The pillar is called.It is a form of levy which Muslims fourth Zakat − of means pay annually in cash or kind, and is spent for good causes mentioned in the Holy Qur’an.Thus it is given for the purpose of − purification of wealth.is used for the upkeep of the poor, the Zakat − destitute, travelers in need, for those serving in the way of Islam, for those − fighting in the way of Allah, for slaves to buy their freedom, and for − benevolent works.can be levied on land produce, livestock, and Zakat − liquid assets, e.g., gold, silver, and savings in the bank left for more than one year.fifth The pillar is called , i.e., to perform pilgrimage to the Hajj ± Ka‘bah Baitullah ( ) in Mecca, at least once in the lifetime of a Muslim − when the person is able bodied and has the means to go for.The Hajj Hajj ± ± ceremony involves a series of religious rites which extend over several days, performed at the Holy in Mecca and other special holy sites Ka‘bah near it.The is believed by Muslims to be the first house built for Ka‘bah the worship of One God.It was rebuilt by Prophet Abraham and his son as Ishmael , and later on by the Holy Prophet.as sa The serves as a striking reminder of the Oneness of Allah and Hajj ± − it emphasizes the brotherhood and equality of human beings, as well as the importance of man's willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of his Creator.The above five pillars of Islam must be professed by everyone who − desires to become a Muslim.Although Islam is already divided into many − sects -- like all other religions -- on this issue there are no two opinions.By whatever title the sects are recognized, be they Sunnis or Sh'ites, all − believe in these five fundamental articles.82

Page 83

− SALA T (PRAYER) ± − Prayer or is normally held in a place dedicated to Divine Salat ± − worship called a mosque but it may be held anywhere.The only requirement for a place of Prayer is that the place chosen is clean.The Holy Prophet has said: sa AiÌÈË AfVn¿ ~iÜA Ó» O¼¨U Ë í æ å ä ä í ê æ ä å æ æ ä ä ê æ ä ê å ä wa ju‘ilat liyal ardu masjidan wa tahuran ± ± − The earth has been purified for me and has been declared a mosque (Muslim Kitabul Masajid, Bukhari Kitabul Tayammum) − − − − − Mosque Mosques play an important part in the life of the Muslim community.A mosque is usually a very simple building where Muslims gather five times a day for Prayers and the remembrance of God.However, it can be said that a mosque is an institution which controls and directs every aspect of the daily life of a Muslim.The mosque serves as a training ground where the principles of obedience and discipline, equality and fraternity of mankind are put into practice.Mosques are also used for other religious and intellectual activities.They serve as schools and for marriage celebrations, as courts of law and a meeting place where plans are made for the social and economic progress of the community.In Arabic, the word used for mosque is ', which means a 'Masjid place of worship or prostration.Muslims believe that the first place of worship ever built in this world was in Arabia, the most holy place Ka‘bah of Islam, towards which millions of Muslims all over the world turn their − face five times a day during their Prayers, and to which each one of them 83

Page 84

− endeavors to make Pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime.The place of worship in Islam, whether congregational or private, is kept meticulously − clean.Everyone is expected to take his shoes off before entering such a place.Visiting a Mosque 1.A mosque is a place of worship, therefore, it is forbidden to make any noise in it which might disturb worshippers in their supplications.2.A mosque should be used only for the remembrance and worship of God and cognate purposes.Purely mundane activities should not be carried on in it.3.When one enters a mosque, one should recite: Áȼ»A ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Ó¼§ ÂÝn»AË Ñ̼v»A ɼ»A ÁnI ( ì å Õ ä ê Õ ê æ å ä Ð ä å ä ì ä å Ð ì ê Õ ê æ ê ¹NÀYi LAÌIA Ó» \N¯AË ÓIÌÃg Ó»j°«A ä ê ä æ ä ä ä æ ä æ ê æ ä æ ä æ ê æ å å æ ê æ ê æ bismilla hissalatu wassalamu ‘ala rasulillahi − ± ± − − − − − allahummaghfirli dhunubi waftahli abwaba rahmatika − − − − ± − − ± In the name of Allah, salutations to the Prophet of Allah and − − peace be upon him.O Lord, forgive my sins and open for me the gates of Thy Mercy.(Ibni Majah Kitabul Masajid & Tirmidhi Abwabus-Salat) − − − − − ± ± − When one leaves the mosque, one should recite: Áȼ»A ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Ó¼§ ÂÝn»AË Ñ̼v»A ɼ»A ÁnI ( ì å Õ ä ê Õ ê æ å ä Ð ä å ä ì ä å Ð ì ê Õ ê æ ê 84

Page 85

− ¹¼z¯ LAÌIA Ó» \N¯AË ÓIÌÃg Ó»j°«A ä ê æ ä ä ä æ ä æ ê æ ä æ ä æ ê æ å å æ ê æ ê æ bismilla hissalatu wassalamu ‘ala rasulillahi − ± ± − − − − − allahummaghfirli dhunubi waftahli abwaba fadlika − − − − ± − − ± In the name of Allah, salutations to the Prophet of Allah and − − peace be upon him.O Lord, forgive my sins and open for me the gates of Thy Grace.(Musnad Ahmad, Hadith Fatimah binnat Rasulullah , Ibni sa ± ± − − ± − Majah Kitabul Masajid & Tirmidhi Kitabus-Salat) − − − − − ± ± − 4.As the Muslim Prayer involves prostration, hence it is essential that the floor of the mosque be kept absolutely clean.It is, therefore, forbidden to enter the Prayer Hall of the mosque with shoes on.5.One should not pass in front of a worshipper when he is engaged in Prayer.However, if it becomes necessary to pass in front of the worshipper, one can do so after leaving such a distance in front of the worshipper that the worshipper is not distracted.6.A mosque is not the property of an individual, so no one should be denied access to it for the purpose of worshipping the One True God.7.A person should go to the mosque in clean and decent clothes.8.A worshipper should not come running to the mosque even when the Prayer Service is about to commence.He should proceed calmly and join the service at the stage of his arrival and make up afterwards what he may have missed.9.As the mosque is meant for Divine worship without any disturbance, no animals may enter it.85

Page 86

− Prayer service ) is preceded by and.(Salat Wudu’, Adhan Iqamat ± − ± − − − Wudu’ ( ) Ablution ± − The word (Ablution) applies to washing some parts of the wudu’ ± − body preparatory to the performance of Prayer.This is a pre-requisite which must be fulfilled, otherwise the Prayer will not be considered valid.The Holy Qur’an says: − Ë ¸ÇÌUË A̼n«B¯ Ñ̼v»AÓ»A NÀ³ AgA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ ‘ ‘ ä æ å ä æ å å æ å ê æ ä ê Ð ì ä ê æ å æ å ä ê æ Ø å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê Ó»A ¸¼UiA Ë Á¸mËÕjI AÌZn¿AË μ¯AjÀ»AÓ»A ¸ÍfÍA ‘ ‘ ä ê æ å ä å æ ä ä æ å ê æå å ê æ å ä æ ä ê ê ä ä æ ä ê æ å ä ê æ ä AËjÈ B¯ BJÄU ÁNÄ· ÆA Ë ÅÎJ¨¸»A È æ å ì ì ä í å å æ å æ å æ ê ä ê È æä æ ä æ ya ayyuhalladhina amanu idha qumtum ilassalati faghsilu − − − − − ± ± − − wujuhakum wa aidiyakum ilal marafiqi wamsahu bi − − ± − ru’usikum wa arjulakum ilal ka‘bain wa in kuntum junuban − fattahharu ±± − O ye who believe! when you stand up for Prayer, wash your faces, and your hands up to the elbows, and pass your hands over your heads, and wet wash by your feet to the ankles.And if you be unclean, purify yourselves bathing.(5:7) According to Hadrat Uthman bin ‘Affan the way in which the ‘ ra ± ± − − Holy Prophet performed is as follows: sa wudu’ ± − i.The hands are washed to the wrists three times.ii.The mouth is rinsed with water three times.iii.The nostrils are cleansed three times by snuffing a little water into them and blowing the nose if necessary.iv.The complete face is washed with water three times.86

Page 87

− v.The right arm, and then the left, is washed from wrist to elbow.vi.The head is wiped over with wet hands, and the inner side of the ears wiped with the forefingers and the outer side with the thumb, that is called 'Massah'.vii.Finally the feet are washed to the ankles, the right one first.(Bukhar Kitabul wudu’ Babal wudu’ thalathan thalathan) i − − − ± − − ± − − − Before starting one should recite: wudu’ ± − ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê bismilla hirrahma nirrahim ± − ± − In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − After perfoming the , the following should be recited: wudu’ ± − ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.(Muslim and Bukhari) − − ÅÍjÈñNÀ»A Å¿ Óļ¨UAË ÅÎIAÌN»A Å¿ Óļ¨UA Áȼ»A ä æ ê êé ä ä å æ ä ê æ ê æ ä æ ä ä æê ì ì ä ê æ ê æ ä æ ì å Õ ä 87

Page 88

− alla-hummaj ‘alni mi nattawwabina waj‘alni minalmuta − − − − − tahhirin ± − O Allah make me of those who seek forgiveness and make me of those − who are cleansed (Kanzul 'Ammal Vol.9, Kitabut Tahhara Bab Adhkarul − − ± ± − − Wudu’,Tirmidh Abwabut-Taharat Bab ma Yuqala Ba'dal Wudu’) i ± − − − ± ± − − − − ± − While one may perform ablution before every Prayer, it becomes necessary only after passing the wind, after utilizing the rest room, after vomiting, or bleeding occurs and after one has been asleep.Acquiring the habit of not only fulfills the religious injunction, it also helps you wudu’ ± − maintain habitual cleanliness and self discipline.In case socks are put on after the ablution is made, then during the next twenty-four hours (for seventy two hours while traveling), it is enough to pass wet fingers over them in making an ablution instead of having to wash the feet each time, provided the socks have not been taken off during this time.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi says about : as wudu’ − ± − "It is mentioned in the Islamic literature that is a means of wudu’ − ± − purifying a man of his sins.This actually means that even the minor commandments of God are of great value and we can get our sins forgiven by acting upon them." (Nurul Qur’an, Part II) − − In the case of illness or non-availability of water, there is a simple substitute for ablution which is called.Tayammum Tayammum If no water is available, a clean surface may be substituted.The hands are passed over the dust, and then passed over face and arms.This is called Tayammum.One should pat a clean dusty solid surface with open palms of both 88

Page 89

− hands, then make a motion with both hands, passing them first over the face and then the back of each hand, successively, as if one is washing them.This is only a token ablution to remind one that whenever possible, proper ablution should be performed.is good for one Prayer Tayyammum and must be renewed before each Prayer.However, if water is available it is necessary to do.Wudu’ ± − The Holy Qur’an says: − Ë ¸ÇÌUÌI AÌZn¿B¯ BJÎ AfΨu AÌÀÀÎN¯ ÕF¿ AËfVM ¼¯ ‘ ‘ ä æ å ê æ å å ê æ å ä æ ä í é ê ä í æ ê ä æ å ì ä ä ä í ä æ å ê ä æ ä ä ÉÄ¿ ¸ÍfÍA ‘ å È æ é ê æ å æ ê æ ä falam tajidu ma’an fa tayammamu sa‘idan tayyiban famsahu − − − ± − ± ± − biwujuhikum wa aidikumminhu − − And you find not water, betake yourselves to pure dust and wipe therewith your faces and your hands.(5:7) Mu’adhdhin The is a person who calls the (Call to Prayer) at Mu’adhdhin Adhan − the appointed times of Prayers.He stands with his face towards the Ka‘bah and with both hands raised and touching the lobes of the ears, calls out aloud the words of the.Any worshipper may perform this duty but Adhan − in some mosques a person with a loud and melodious voice is appointed for the purpose.Calling the is a meritorious act.Adhan − Adhan ( The Call for Prayer) − 89

Page 90

− jJ·A ɼ» A 0 jJ·A ɼ» A 0 jJ·A ɼ» A 0 jJ·A ɼ» A æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä allahu akbar, allahu akbar, allahu akbar, allahu akbar − − − − Allah is the Greatest of all, Allah is the Greatest of all − − Allah is the Greatest of all, Allah is the Greatest of all − − ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü Æ A fÈq A 0 ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü Æ A fÈq A å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä ash hadu alla ilaha illallah, ash hadu alla ilaha illallah − − − − − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah − ɼ»A ¾Ìmi AfÀZ¿ ÆA fÈq A ê Õ å æ å ì ç ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ash hadu anna muhammadar rasulullah ± − − I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah ± − ɼ»A ¾Ìmi AfÀZ¿ ÆA fÈq A ê Õ å æ å ì ç ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ash hadu anna muhammadar rasulullah ± − − I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah ± − Ñ̼v»A Ó¼§ ÏY.Ñ̼v»A Ó¼§ ÏY ê Ð ì ä ä ì ä ê Ð ì ä ä ì ä hayya ‘alassalah, hayya ‘alassalah ± ± ± − ± ± ± − Come to prayer, Come to pr ayer 90

Page 91

− ` ݰ»A Ó¼§ ÏY.` ݰ»A Ó¼§ ÏY ê ä ä æ ä ä ì ä ê ä ä æ ä ä ì ä hayya ‘alalfalah hayya ‘alalfalah ± − ± ± − ± Come to prosperity, Come to prosperity jJ· A ɼ» A jJ· A ɼ» A æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä allahu akbar allahu akbar − − Allah is the Greatest of all, Allah is the Greatest of all − − ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü ä Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä la ilaha illallah − − There is none worthy of worship except Allah − In the call to the Morning Prayer after : ` ݰ»A Ó¼§ ÏY ê ä ä æ ä ä ì ä hayya ‘alalfalah ± − ± Come to prosperity The following phrase is added twice: 91

Page 92

− ÂÌÄ»A Å¿ jÎa Ñ̼v»A æ ì ä éê Ñ æ ä å Ð ì ä assalatu khairummi nannaum ± ± − Prayer is better than sleep (Nisa'i Kitabul Adhan, Babul Adhan fil Safr vol.1, p74; Abu Da’ud) − − − − − − − − − After the , the and others listening to the Adhan Mu dhdhin ’a − Adhan should recite the following prayer as stated by the Holy − Prophet : sa : ¾B³ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÆA Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ɼ»AfJ§ ÅI jIBU ŧ D ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ì Ú å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä æ Õ ê æ ä ê æ ê ê ä æ ä Ë Ò¿FN»A Ņ̃f»A ÊhÇ Li ÁÈ»A : ÕAfÄ»A ©ÀnÍ ÅÎY ¾B³ Å¿ ä ê ì ì ê ä æ ì ê ê Ð ì ä ì å Õ ä ä ä é ê å ä æ ä ä æ ê ä ä æ ä B¿B´¿ ÉR¨IAË Ò¼Îz°»AË Ò¼ÎmÌ» A AfÀZ¿ PA ÒÀÖB´»A Ñ̼v»A í ä ä å æ ä æ ä ä ä æ ê ä æ ä ä ä æ ê ä æ ä ì ä å ê Ð ê ä ê Ø ä æ ê Ð ì Ò¿Bδ»A ÂÌÍ ÓN§B°q É» O¼Y ÉMf§Ë Ôh» A AeÌÀZ¿ ( : ( - ê ä ä ê æ ä æ ä æ ê ä ä ä ä æ ì ä ì æ ä ä æ ê ì ä æ å æ ì ‘an jabiribini ‘abdillah ‘anna rasulallahi qala: man qala hina ra sa − − − − − − − yasma ‘unnida’a: "allahumma rabba hadhi hidda‘wa titta − − − − ammati wassalatil qa’imati ati muhammada nil wasilata wal ± ± − − − ± − fadilata wab‘ath hu maqamammahmuda nilladhi wa ‘attahu" ± − − − − − hallat lahu shafa‘ati yaumal qiyamati ± − − − − Jabir bin ‘Abdullah narrated: The Holy Prophet said: For the one who ra sa − − listens to the adhan and recites: "O Allah! The Lord of this perfect call − − and of the Prayer to be offered! Bestow on Muhammad the means, the ± superiority, and the high dignity, and elevate him to the most exalted rank which thou hast promised him." Intercession by me will be permitted for him on the Day of Resurrection.92

Page 93

− (Bukhari Kitabul Adhan Bab Du‘a’ ‘inan Nida’) − − − − − − − There is a short interval between the Call to Prayer and the Prayer service, which gives the worshippers time to prepare for the service, to proceed to the mosque, offer some optional Prayers and to spend time in the remembrance of Allah.The service is led by one of the congregation, − preferably the one who possesses the best understanding of the Holy Qur’an.There is no priesthood or anything corresponding to ordination or − taking Holy Orders in Islam.Every Muslim is, or should be competent to − lead a congregation in the Prayer service.Everyone is expected to acquaint with the rudiments of the faith, its doctrines and teaching.Women can lead Prayer for women only.Iqamat − When the Prayer service is about to commence, and the (The Imam − person who leads the Prayer) stands in his place in front of the congregation, the repeats the i.e., Call to Prayer is Mu’adhdhin Iqamat, − repeated in a low tone, with the addition of the following words: Ñ̼v»A O¿B³ f³ È å Ð ì ê ä ä æ ä qad qamatisslah − ± ± − Prayer is ready The sentences of the Adhan are repeated once and qad qamatisslah − − ± ± − is recited twice after saying hayya ‘alalfalah.This is known as Iqamat.± − ± − (Musnad Ahmad, p 2/87) ± 93

Page 94

− A tradition of the Holy Prophet explains as follows: sa Iqamat − ¾Ìmi fȧ Ó¼§ ÆAgÜA ÆB· ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi jÀ§ ÅIA ŧ ê æ å ä ê æ ä Ð ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä å ê æ ê ä AgA ÆB· ÆgÌÀ»A ÆA jΫ ÑfYAË Ò¿B³ÜA Ë ÓÄR¿ ÓÄR¿ ɼ»A D ä ê ä ä ä éê Ú å æ ì ä ä æ ä í ä ê ä å ä ä æê ä Ð æ ä Ð æ ä ê Õ _ ÅÎMj¿ Ñ̼v»A O¿B³ f³ : ¾B³ Ñ̼v»A O¿B³ f³ : ¾B³ ( ê æä î ä å Ð ì ê ä ä æ ä ä ä å Ð ì ê ä ä æ ä ä ä ‘anibni ‘umara qala kanal adhanu ‘ala ‘ahdi rasulillahi ra sa − − − − − mathna mathna wal iqamatu wahidatan ghaira ’annal − − − − ± mu’adhdhina kana idha qala: qad qamatisslatu qala: qad , − − − − ± ± − − qamatisslatu marrataini − ± ± − Ibni ‘Umar states that in the time of the Messenger of Allah , (sentences ra sa − of) the used to be repeated twice, and those of the only Adhan Iqamah − − once.However, the used to say the following twice: Mu’adhdhin Ñ̼v»A O¿B³ f³ (Prayer is ready).å Ð ì ê ä ä æ ä (Musnad Ahmad, p 2/87) ± 94

Page 95

− Imam − The duties of an are to lead the Prayers, to deliver a sermon Imam − on Fridays and on religious festival occasions.He also conducts Funeral Prayers and performs marriage ceremonies.The is also responsible Imam − for the religious education of the community, especially the children.The office of carries great respect and high responsibility.Great Imam − importance is attached to following the in the observance of Prayers.Imam − Daily Prayers In every religion Prayer is regarded as the pivot on which rests man's Communion with God.God prescribed Prayer as the second pillar of His everlasting religion Islam.− Of all religious obligations, Islam has laid the greatest emphasis on − the institution of Prayer ( It is enjoined upon every Muslim to Pray Salat).± − five times a day.Besides the five obligatory Prayers, there are other types of Prayers which are optional.Salat or Prayer, consists of various postures, i.e.Standing called ± − Qiyam, Ruku‘ Sajdah Bowing down called , Prostration called and Sitting − − called.During each posture prescribed, phrases are to be recited.Qa‘dah As these phrases are in Arabic, every Muslim is required not only to memorize these verses but also to know their meaning so that the worshipper knows what he is saying to his Lord during the Prayer.Prayers, in the prescribed manner is obligatory upon every adult Muslim of sound mind.As far as children are concerned, it is not obligatory on them until they come of age.However, it requires continuous effort and persuasion to get them to the stage where they start offering their Prayers regularly in the manner prescribed for the Prayer.Proper training and education is therefore necessary for children.It is for this reason that the Holy Prophet has directed that when children reach the age of seven, parents should urge them to be regular in their Prayrers and when they reach the age of ten, they must be admonished if they fail to 95

Page 96

− offer their Prayers regularly.(Abu Da’ud, Kitabus-Salat) − − − − ± ± − (Salat,: The Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International Publications, London, UK, pp 1-2) ± − − Prayer is regarded as a means of establishing communion with God Almighty.According to the Holy Prophet Prayer is the highest form of sa Divine worship.Prayer also teaches brotherhood and obedience.The Holy Qur’an directs: − BM̳̿ BJN· ÅÎÄ¿ÛÀ»A Ó¼§ OÃB· Ñ̼v»A ÆA Ñ̼v»A AÌÀγB¯ , í æ å æ ì í Ð ê ä æê ê ê æ å æ ä ä æ ä ä ä Ð ì ì ê ô ä Ð ì å æ ê ä ä fa aqimussalata innassalata kanat ‘alal mu’minina kita − ± ± − ± ± − − − − bammauquta − Then observe Prayer verily Prayer is enjoined on in the prescribed form; the believers at prescribed times (4:104) to be performed The Holy Qur’an further says about Prayer: − j¸ÄÀ»AË ÕFrZ°»A ŧ ÓÈÄM Ñ̼v»A ÆA Ñ̼v»A ³A Ë ‘ ê È ä æ å æ ä ê ä æ ä æ ê ä Ð æä ä Ð ì ì ê ä È Ð ì ê ê ä ä wa aqimissalah innassalata tanha ‘anil fahsha’i wal munkar ± ± − ± ± − − − And observe Prayer.Surely, Prayer restrains from indecency and one manifest evil.(29:46) Worship means total obedience to the command of Allah.The − institution of Islamic Prayer is rich in so many profound lessons, as are not − found even fractionally in other religions.Islam enjoins both − congregational and individual Prayer.In the Mosque the Prayers are usually offered in congregation.The congregational Prayers are held in a manner which are well organized and meaningful.The importance of offering Prayers in congregation is stated in the following tradition of the Holy Prophet : sa 96

Page 97

− Ñ̼u : ¾B³ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÆA BÀÈħ ɼ»A Óyi jÀ§ ÅIA ŧ D å Ð ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ì ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä å ê æ ê ä ÒUie ÅÍjr§ Ë ©JnI h°»A Ñ̼u Å¿ ½z¯A Ò§BÀV»A í ä ä ä ä æ ê æ ê ì î æ ä ê é ê ä æ ê Ð ä æ ê å ä æä ê ä ä ä æ ‘anibni ‘umara ‘anhuma anna rasulallahi qala: salatul ra sa − − − ± − jama‘ati afdalu min salatil fazzi bi sab‘ñwwa ‘ishrina − ± ± − − darajatan.Hadrat Ibn ‘Umar relates that the Holy Prophet said: Prayer with the ra sa ± ± congregation is twenty seven times more beneficent than Prayer performed by oneself.(Bukhari and Muslim) − − Like congregational Prayers, individual Prayers are also highly emphasized.In congregational Prayers, society pays homage to God collectively and openly.In individual Prayers, emphasis is laid on privacy, and there should be no effort to display such Prayers to anyone.Similarly, the late night voluntary Prayer ( , which is described later Tahajjud Prayer on) is performed in perfect privacy.Members of the same house try to find their own niches, and even husband and wife try to say their Prayer separately, so that communion with God becomes a highly personal affair.As far as the contents of the Prayer go, whether the Prayer is offered individually or in congregation, they are of two types: 1.A formal routine recitation of the verses of the Qur’an and − other prayers, which are done in the language of the Qur’an, which is Arabic.All worshippers are expected to − know the meaning of what they are reciting, otherwise they will deprive themselves of the immense benefit which they may draw from the meaningful recitation.2.To the second category belong individual prayers in one's 97

Page 98

− own language, in which one is free to beg as he pleases during the individual or congregational Prayers.Many a school of jurisprudence disallow prayers in one's own language during the Prayer.However, they do appreciate the need for private and personal prayers, so they suggest praying in one's own language after the formal Prayer has ended and not during its course.We, the Ahmadi Muslims, ± − use the option of praying to God in one's own language as one pleases during the formal Prayer.(An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, − ± ± − ± − ± Islam International Publications, London, UK, pp 34-36) − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi has advised that one should as ± ± − pray to God Almighty during the Prayer in one's own language as praying in one's own language brings humility and fervor.(Malfuzat, Vol.9, p 55) − − Islamic Prayer thus plays an important role in the life of a Muslim, − and in the spiritual and moral upbringing of the individual.Types of Prayers The prescribed Prayer has three parts: , and.Fard, Sunnah Nawafil ± − Fard Sunnah Nawafil and are obligatory Prayers while are voluntary ± − Prayers.a) Obligatory Prayers Fard: These are enjoined by Allah.± − Sunnah: These were offered regularly by the Holy Prophet in addition to Prayers, and he sa Fard ± 98

Page 99

− enjoined all Muslims to offer these.The Prayers should be offered in congregation with an Fard Imam ± − leading the Prayers, preferably in a mosque.The following Prayers are regarded as (necessary) Prayers: Wajib − i.Three of.Rak‘at Vitr − ii.Two of and two of.Rak‘at ‘Idul fitr Rak‘at ‘Idul adhiyya − − ± − − ± ± iii.Two offered while performing the of the Rak‘at Tawaf − ± − Ka‘bah.If a person misses these Prayers intentionally, he is deemed to have committed a sin.However, if he misses a Prayer unintentionally, Wajib − e.g., through forgetfulness, he is not required to offer it as a Prayer.Qada ± − Qada means offering a missed Prayer.± − (Salat: A Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International ± − − Publications Ltd., London, UK, p 49) Number of Rak'at in Each Obligatory Prayer − Each Prayer Service is made up of a number of.A is Rak at Rak at ‘ ‘ − a series of postures from standing to prostration.The number of for Rak at ‘ − the five daily Prayers are as follows: Fajr - Two followed by two Rak at of Sunnah Rak at Fard ‘ ‘ − − ± Zuhr - Four followed by four Rak‘at of Sunnah Rak at ‘ ± − − Fard Rak at of Sunnah., and two additional ‘ ± − ‘A r - s Four Rak‘at Fard.± − ± Maghrib - Three followed by two Rak‘at Fard Rak at of ‘ − ± − Sunnah.‘Isha’ - Four followed by two Rak‘at Fard Rak at of ‘ − − ± − 99

Page 100

− Sunnah Rak at of Vitr., and three ‘ − Friday is the holy day for Muslims.They worship with a congregational service held at time of Prayer.The Service involves Zuhr ± deliverance of a sermon ( ) by the This is known as Khutbah Imam.± − Jumu ah Jumu ah ‘ ‘ Prayer.The Prayer service is described in detail later on.Timings of the Prayers God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − jV°»A ÆAj³ Ë ½Î»A μn« Ó»A oÀr»A ºÌ»f» Ñ̼v»A ³A ‘ ê È æ ä æ ä Ð æ å ä ê æ ì ê ä ä Ð ê ê æ ì ê æ å å ê ä Ð ì ê ê ä aqimissalata li dulu kishshamsi ila ghasa qillaili wa qur’anal ± ± − − − − fajr Observe Prayer at the declining and paling of the sun on to the darkness of the night.(17:79) For each of the five obligatory Prayers, there is an appointed time fixed in relation to the sun's position.Fajr: The time of the or morning Prayer begins with Fajr dawn and ends before sunrise.Optional Prayers are not recommended between Prayer and sunrise.Fajr Zuhr: The time of the or middle of the day Prayer, Zuhr ± ± begins after the sun has crossed the Zenith point and has begun to decline.‘Asr: The time of the Prayer is when the sun has ‘Asr ± ± further advanced in decline and reaches a point nearly halfway between the beginning of decline and sunset, which we may call late afternoon, but not very late.It ends up quite some time before 100

Page 101

− sunset, when the sunlight has paled.Although, it is not entirely forbidden to say the Prayer that ‘Asr ± late in the day, it is most certainly preferred that it be offered before daylight has started fading out while the sun is still above the horizon by a good measure.Maghrib: The Maghrib Prayer begins immediately after the sun has set.It lasts until dusk.But the word dusk is differently understood by the different Schools of Jurists.According to the word dusk Fiqh Ahmadiyya ± means the time when the redness in the Western Horizon disappears.Thus, Prayer time Maghrib period is slightly less than one and a half an hour.‘Isha’ : All Schools of Jurisprudence agree that the time for − ‘Isha’ Prayer begins when dusk has finally − disappeared, giving way to the darkness of night.According to most, this period lasts till midnight but some even extend it beyond midnight till one retires for sleep.The Prayers should be performed at their appropriate time and preferably in congregation.It is very strongly advised and preferred that Prayers should be generally offered at the beginning of their respective times and should not be delayed until the time is about to run out.However, if it is impossible for the afternoon Prayer to be offered at its proper time, it is permissible to combine the and Prayers.The and Prayers may Zuhr Asr Maghrib ‘Isha’ ‘ ± ± − also be combined if necessary.101

Page 102

− Forbidden Times For Prayers It is to be remembered that at the time of sunrise, sunset and when the sun is at its zenith, it is forbidden to offer Prayers.Also, after the ‘Asr ± Prayer has been performed, no optional Prayer should be offered between that time and the time of sunset.Likewise, after the Prayer has been Fajr performed, no optional Prayer should be offered between that time and the time of the rising of sun.Offering Prayer While on Journey When someone is on journey, he should offer shortened (Qasr) ± Prayers.i.If the stay is 14 days or less, it is considered as a journey.ii.If the destination is one's own property, parents' residence, in-laws' residence, Mecca or Medina, then one must perform complete Prayer.iii.If someone is in transit to or from any one of the above places, he should offer the Prayers.Qasr ± iv.If the offers complete Prayers, then one must also Imam − follow the , even if one is a traveler.Imam − v.Prayer is never shortened even when on journey.One Fajr must perform two and two.Rak‘at Sunnah Rak‘at Fard − − ± vi.For Friday Prayers, a person on journey must not skip the four of which are offered before the Rak‘at Sunnah − beginning of the Friday Sermon.These must be Sunnah offered even if the and Prayers are to be Zuhr ‘Asr ± ± combined.If the Friday Sermon has started, then one should offer two instead of usual four Rak‘at Sunnah Rak at ‘ − − Sunnah.102

Page 103

− If a person is traveling by any means of transportation which precludes his standing up for Prayer, nor he can get off from the vehicle, he can offer his prayer while seated and the condition of facing towards the Qibla would not be mandatory in this situation.He should face in the direction in which the mount, vehicle, boat or airplane, etc., is moving, if possible.If travelers are offering their congregational Prayer behind an Imam − who is a local inhabitant, they have to follow the and offer four Imam − Rak‘at Zuhr ‘Asr ‘Isha’ for , and Prayers.The rule of concession would − ± ± − not apply in that case.But if the person leading the Prayer, i.e.the , is Imam − a traveler, then he will shorten his Prayer accordingly and the travelers in the congregation will also finish their Prayer with the , while those Imam − who are not on a journey will stand up when the has recited the Imam − salutations to mark the end of the Prayer and complete their Prayer: ɼ»A ÒÀYi Ë Á¸Î¼§ ÂÝn» A ê Õ å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ä ä å ä ì ä assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah − ± − Peace be upon you and the mercy of God (Salat: The Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International ± − − Publications, London, UK, pp 63-64) Pre-requisites and Conditions Regarding Offering of Prayers Some pre-requisites and conditions exist regarding the offering of Prayers.They are as follows: i.: The intention to perform Determination of the Intention a Prayer must be made prior to the beginning of the Prayer.ii.The Prayer should be offered within the fixed time allotted 103

Page 104

− for that particular Prayer.However, it should be remembered that if one fails to perform a Prayer in time due to some compelling reasons, that Prayer can be offered whenever one remembers it.However, it should not be offered at forbidden times.iii.One should be clean in body and, as far as possible, in mind and spirit also.Cleanliness here means: a.The body should be clean from all filth.b.If one has answered a call of nature and has been to the toilet, one should wash oneself properly so that all remnants of feces or urine have been properly washed away.c.After conjugation, whether ejaculation has taken place or not or if ejaculation has taken place in whatever manner, for instance during sleep, cleanliness would mean not just washing oneself partially, but a full bath becomes essential.d.A full bath is also essential for women after menstruational bleeding and after post-parturition bleeding (bleeding following childbirth).iv.The place and mat of Prayer must be neat and clean.v.The body must be properly covered during the Prayer.vi.Direction: All Muslims must face towards the Qibla Ka‘bah while offering Prayers.means facing in Qibla Ka‘bah Mecca, the first House of Worship built on earth.(Salat: The Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International ± − − Publications, London, UK, pp 7-8) vii.As the recites during the Prayer, the Imam Surah Fatihah − − − ± followers must also recite the.The recital Surah Fatihah − − ± 104

Page 105

− should be performed in low tone so that the neighboring worshippers are not disturbed.Care should be taken during the entire Prayer so as not to disturb other worshippers.viii.When the recites a portion of the Holy Qur’an after Imam − − the recital of , the followers should not recite Surah Fatihah − − ± but listen to the recitation of the Holy Qur’an.− (Malfuzat Vol.9, p 436) − − According to most schools of Jurisprudence, men should cover their heads when offering (Prayer).But the and a few others Salat Malikis ± − − − do not consider this necessary.PRAYER (Arabic Part) Niyyat (Determination of the Intention) Before the commencement of Prayer, , the notice that the Iqamat − Prayer is about to start, is recited.After arranging themselves in rows behind the , each worshipper should make his intention as to which Imam − type of Prayer, etc., he is going to perform and how Fard, Sunnah or Nafl, ± many Rak‘at.It is not necessary to make Niyyat by saying the words − aloud.The mere mention in one's mind will suffice.After the Takbir-i-Tahrima one should recite the following prayer : − ± − BÃA B¿ Ë B°ÎÄY ~i ÜAË P ÌÀn»A jñ¯ Ôh¼» ÓÈUË OÈUË ä ä ä ì í æê ä ä æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì ä ä ä æ ê ìê ä ê æ ä å æ ì ä ÅηjrÀ»A Å¿ , ä æ ê ê æ å æ ä ê wajjahtu wajhiya lilladhi fatarassamawati wal arda − − − ± hanifañwwa ma ana minal mushrikin ± − − − − 105

Page 106

− I have turned my full attention towards the Supreme Being, Who has created the heavens and the earth, and I am not one of those who associate partners with Him.(Muslim Kitabus Salat Babud Du'a’ fi Salatil Laili wa Qiyamah) − ± − − − ± − − Beginning The Prayer starts with , i.e., the raises both Takbir-i-Tahrima Imam − ± − − hands and says the following jJ·A ɼ»A æ ä æ ä å Õ ä allahu akbar God is Great − Qiyam or Standing Upright − After saying and reciting the above prayer, the Takbir-i-Tahrima − ± − following glorification called is recited individually in silence: Thana − É»A Ü Ë ºfU Ó»B¨M Ë ¹ÀmA ºiBJM Ë ºfÀZI Ë Áȼ»A ¹ÄZJm ä Ð ê ä ä ä í ä Ð ä ä ä ä å æ ä ä ää ä ä ê æ ä ê ä ì å Õ ä ä Ð æ å ºjΫ ä å æ ä subhana kallahumma wa bi hamdika wa tabara kasmuka wa ± − − ± − ta'ala jadduka wa la ilaha ghairuka − − − Holy art Thou O God and all praise is Thine and Blessed is Thy Name and exalted is Thy state and there is none worthy of worship except Thee (Tirmidhi Kitabus-Salat) − − ± ± − The above glorification is followed by , which is also Atta‘awwudh 106

Page 107

− recited silently: ÁÎU j» A ÅñÎr» A Å¿ ɼ» BI g ̧ A ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ä ê ê Õ ê å æ å ä a‘udhu billahi mi nashshaita nirrajim − − − − I seek refuge with God from Satan the accursed After , is recited either silently or loudly, Atta Tasmiah ‘awwudh by the.The congregation, however, recites it silently.is Imam Tasmiah − as follows: ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê bismilla hirrahma nirrahim − ± − ± − In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − The then recites.In certain Prayers, e.g., , Imam Surah Fatihah Fajr − − − ± Maghrib, ‘Isha’ Imam Surah Fatihah and Prayers, the recites loudly.When − − − − ± the is reciting loudly, the other worshippers listen to Imam Surah Fatihah − − − ± this recitation while they also recite silently verse by verse.Surah Fatihah − − ± In and ‘ Prayers, the and other worshippers recite Zuhr Asr Imam Surah ± ± − − Fatihah Surah Fatihah min silently.At the end of , the worshippers say A − ± − − ± − − which means 'O, Allah accept our supplications.' − ÌÍ ¹¼¿ ÎYj»A ÅÀYj»A ÅÎÀ¼¨»A Li ɼ» fÀZ»A ’ , ‘ , ê æ ä ê ê Ð ö ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ö ä æ ê ä Ð æ é ê ä ê Õ ê å æ ä æä ¢Ajv»A BÃfÇA ÅΨNnà ºBÍA Ë fJ¨Ã ºBÍA ÅÍf»A , , ä ä éê ä ê æê È å æ ê ä æ ä ä ì ê ä å å æ ä ä ì ê È ê æ é ê LÌz¬À»A jΫ Èμ§ OÀ¨ÃA ÅÍh»A ¢Aju δNnÀ»A Œ ‘ ,‘ ê æ å æ ä æ ê æ ä ö æ ê æ ä ä ä æ ä æä ä æ ê ì ä ä ê ö ä æ ê ä æ å æ ÅλFz»A ÜË Èμ§ , ‘ ä æ éê ì ä ä æ ê æ ä ä 107

Page 108

− alhamdu lillahi rabbil ‘alamin arrahma nirrahim maliki ± − − − ± − ± − − yaumiddin iyyaka na‘budu wa iyyaka nasta‘in ihdi nassiratal − − − − ± ± − mustaqim siratalladhina an‘amta ‘alaihim ghairil maghdubi − ± − ± − ± − ‘alaihim wa laddua allin ± ± − − All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds, The Gracious, the − Merciful, Master of the Day of Judgment.Thee alone do we worship and Thee alone do we implore for help.Guide us in the right path -- The path of those on whom Thou has bestowed blessings, those who have not Thy incurred displeasure, and those who have not gone astray.(1:1-7) Thereafter, the recites a portion of the Holy Qur’an, at least Imam − − three verses or a short Chapter.For example (Surah Ikhl s): a − − ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê bismilla hirrahma nirrahim − ± − ± − In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − »Ë f»ÌÍ »Ë 5f¼Í » fÀv»A ɼ»A fYA ɼ»A ÌÇ ½³ ‘ , ‘ ‘ , , æ ä ä ö æ ä æ å æ ä ä ö æ ê ä æ ä ô å ä ì å Õ ä ô Ñ ä ä å Õ ä å æ å fYA A̰· É» Å¸Í , ( Ñ ä ä í å å ì æ å ä qul howallahu ahad allahussamad lam yalid wa lam yu lad − ± − ± ± − wa lam ya kullahu kufuwan ahad − ± Say, 'He is Allah, the One; 'Allah, the Independent and Besought of All.− − 'He begets not, nor is He begotten; 'And there is none like unto Him.' (112:2-5) Imam When the is reciting a portion of the Holy Qur’an, the − − worshippers are required to listen to it silently.The Holy Qur’an says: − 108

Page 109

− ÆÌÀYjM ¸¼¨» AÌNvÃAË É» ĄÀNmB¯ ÆAj´»A Ùj³ AgA Ë , ‘ ( ä æ å ä æ å æ å î ä ä å å ê æä ä ä æ å ë ä æ ä å Ð æ å æ ä ê å ä ê ä wa idha quri’al qur’anu fastami‘u lahu wa ansitu la‘allakum − − − − ± − turhamun ± − When the Qur’an is recited, listen carefully to it in silence, that you may − be shown mercy (7:205) Ruku‘ or Bowing − At the end of the recitation, the goes from the Standing Imam − position to the Bowing position, , by calling out.The Ruku‘ Allahu Akbar − − other worshippers follow him into the Bowing position.In the Bowing posture the following should be individually recited silently, three Tasbih − ± times or more in odd numbers.ÁΤ¨»A ÏI i Æ BZJm ê æ ê ä æ ä ê é ä ä ä æ å subhana rabbi yal‘azim ± − ± − Holy is my Lord, the Great (Tirmidhi Kitabus-Salat) − − ± ± − Standing Upright Again The Imam then straightens up and stands with his arms by his − sides.When he initiates this movement, he recites loudly which is Tasmi − as follows: ÊfÀY ÅÀ» ɼ»A ©Àm ( ä ê ä æ ä ê å Õ ä ê ä 109

Page 110

− sami‘alla huliman hamidah God hears him who praises Him − ± In response, the congregation follows the Imam and changes − posture as well and recites the following which is called Tahmid: − Éί B·i BJ¿ BJÎ AjÎR· AfÀY fÀZ»A ¹» Ë BÄI i ê æ ê í ä ä å í é ê ä í æê ä í æ ä È å æ ä æ ä ä ä äì ä rabbana walakal hamd hamdan kathiran tayyiban mubarakan − ± ± ± fih − Our Lord, Thine is the praise, the praise which is bountiful, pure and blessed.(Bukhari Kitabus-Salat Bab Fadl Allahumma rabbana lakal hamd) − − − ± ± − − ± − − ± This position of standing erect after the is called Ruku‘ Qauma − and it ends with the recitation of.Then the says Tahmid Imam Allahu − − − Akbar loudly again and leads the congregation into the prostration position called.In this posture the given below should be recited Sajdah Tasbih − silently three times at least.Sajdah or Prostration Ó¼§ Ü A ÏI i Æ BZJm Ð æ æ ä ä ê é ä ä ä æ å subhana rabbi yal a‘la Holy is my Lord, the Most High ± − − (Tirmidhi Kitabus-Salat) − − ± ± − (Recitation of verses of the Holy Qur’an and invoking Durud Sharif − − − during the are prohibited).Sajdah 110

Page 111

− Sitting Posture The then says again, at which he and the Imam Allahu Akbar − − congregation raise their heads and then hands from the ground and go to the sitting position called.In this position, the following supplication Jilsa is recited silently.ÓijkiA Ë ÓÃjJUAË ÓįB§ Ë ÓÃfÇAË ÓÄÀYiAË Ó»j°«A Li æ ê æ å æ ä æ ê æ å æ ä æ ê ê ä ä æ ê ê æ ä æ ê æ ä æ ä æ ê æ ê æ é ê ä ÓĨ¯iAË æ ê æ ä æ ä rabbighfirli warhamni wahdini wa ‘afini wajburni warzuqni − ± − − − − − − warfa‘ni − O God, forgive me and have mercy on me and guide me and grant me security and make good my shortcomings and provide for me and raise me up.(Muslim Kitabudhdhikr waddu'a Bab fadluttashil waddu'a ; Ibni ’ ’ − − − ± − − Majah As-Salawat & Hakim Vol.1S,262,271) − ± ± − − Second Sajdah or Prostration After the sitting position , the leads the congregation (Jilsa) Imam − into a second Prostration by saying and, once again the Allahu Akbar − following is recited three times or, if more, in odd numbers: Tasbih − Ó¼§ Ü A ÏI i Æ BZJm Ð æ æ ä ä ê é ä ä ä æ å subhana rabbi yal a‘la Holy is my Lord, the Most High ± − − In every there are always two Prostrations.At the end of the Rak‘at 111

Page 112

− second Prostration, one of Prayer is completed.Rak‘at Second Sitting Posture (Second and the last Rak‘at) After saying once again, the leads the Allahu Akbar Imam − − congregation into the Standing posture to commence the second Rak‘at which is offered exactly as the first In the second after Rak‘at.Rak'at Prostration, the sits down in the same manner as he sat in the Imam − position called This sitting position, at the end of the second is Jilsa Rak'at.called.During this position is recited silently, which Qa‘dah Attashshahud is as follows: Ë ÏJÄ»A BÈÍA ¹Î¼§ ÂÝn»A OJÎñ»AË P̼v»AË É¼» PBÎZN»A ä í ê ì ä í ä ä æ ä ä å ä ì ä å Ð é ê ì ä å Ð ä ì ä ê Õ ê å ì ê ì ä A ÅÎZ»Bv»A ɼ»A eBJ§ Ó¼§ Ë BÄμ§ ÂÝn»A ÉMB·jI Ë É¼»A ÒÀYi ( ä È ä æ ê ê Õ ê Õ ê ä ê Ð ä ä ä æ ä ä å ä ì ä å ä ä ä ä ê Õ å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ÆA fÈq A Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq ( ( È å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ atta hiyyatu lillahi wassalawatu wattayyibatu assalamu ‘alaika ± − − ± ± − ±± − − ayyu hannabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu assalamu ± − − − − ‘alaina wa ‘ala ‘ibadilla hissalihin ash hadu alla ilaha ilallahu − − − − ± ± − ± − − − − wa ash hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − All Salutations are due to Allah and all Prayers and all things pure.Peace − be upon thee, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His Blessings; and − peace be upon us and on all righteous servants of Allah.I bear witness − that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and I bear witness that − Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger ± (Bukhari Kitabus-Salat) − − ± ± − It should be noted that while reciting , when the Attashshahud worshipper reaches the phrase , he should raise Ash hadu alla ilaha ilallahu − − − the forefinger of his right hand and should drop it back as soon as he has recited it.After reciting, , the invocation of blessings on the Attashshahud 112

Page 113

− Holy Prophet called and some other prayers are recited silently.sa Durud − Durud Sharif − − Ó¼§ Oμu BÀ· fÀZ¿ ¾A Ó¼§ Ë fÀZ¿ Ó¼§ ½u Áȼ» A Ð ä ä æ ì ä ä ä î ì ä å ê Ð Ð ä ì î ì ä å Ð ä é ê ä ì å Õ ä fÎV¿ fÎÀY ¹Ã A ÁÎÇAjIA ¾A Ó¼§ Ë ÁÎÇAjIA Ñ ê ì Ñ æ ê ä ä ì ê ä æ ê ä æê ê Ð Ð ä ä ä æ ê ä æê allahumma salli ‘ala muhammadin wa ‘ala ali muhammadin − ± − ± − − ± kama sallaita ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahima innaka − ± − − − − − − − hamiddummajid ± − − Bless O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad as Thou didst − ± ± bless Abraham and the people of Abraham Thou art indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.Ó¼§ O·iBI BÀ· fÀZ¿ ¾A Ó¼§ Ë fÀZ¿ Ó¼§ ºiBI Áȼ» A Ð ä ä æ ä ä ä ä î ì ä å ê Ð Ð ä ì î ì ä å Ð ä æ ê ä ì å Õ ä fÎV¿ fÎÀY ¹Ã A ÁÎÇAjIA ¾A Ó¼§ Ë ÁÎÇAjIA Ñ ê ì Ñ æ ê ä ä ì ê ä æ ê ä æê ê Ð Ð ä ä ä æ ê ä æê allahumma barik ‘ala muhammadin wa ala ali muhammadin − − − ± − − ± kama barakta ‘ala ibrahima wa ‘ala ali ibrahima innaka − − − − − − − − − hamiddummajid ± − − Prosper O Allah, Muhammad and the people of Muhammad as Thou − ± ± didst prosper Abraham and the people of Abraham Thou art indeed the Praiseworthy, the Glorious.(Bukhari Kitabul Anbi'ya) − − − − The invocation is followed by some prayers such as: Durud − 113

Page 114

− iBÄ»A LAh§ Bij Ë ÒÄnY ÑjaÜA Ó¯ Ë ÒÄnY BÎÃf»AÓ¯ BÄMA FÄI i È ê ì ä ä ä ê ì í ä ä ê ê æ Ð ê ì í ä ä ä æ í ê äê Ð äì ä rabbana atina fiddunya hasanatañwwa fil akhirati hasana − − − − ± − − ± tañwwa qina ‘adhabannar − − − Our Lord grant us good in this world as well as good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.(2:202) (Bukhari Kitabud D'awat) − − − After reciting one or more prayers, the turns his face towards Imam − the right and says the following: Salutations ɼ»A ÒÀYi Ë Á¸Î¼§ ÂÝn» A ê Õ å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ä ä å ä ì ä assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah − ± − Peace be upon you and the mercy of God Then, the turns his face towards the left and repeats the Imam − following to mark the end of the Prayer: ɼ»A ÒÀYi Ë Á¸Î¼§ ÂÝn» A ê Õ å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ä ä å ä ì ä assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah − ± − Peace be upon you and the mercy of God Vitr Prayer Three of Prayer are performed after the two Rak‘at Vitr Rak‘at of − − Sunnah ‘Isha’ Tahajjud of Prayer.However, if one intends to get up for − Prayer then the Prayer is usually offered after offering the Vitr Tahajjud 114

Page 115

− Prayer.i.is the same Prayer except that one finishes the last Vitr Rak‘at with the following Prayer which is called Du‘a-i-Qunut in Arabic: − − ½·ÌNÃ Ë ¹I Å¿ ÌÃ Ë ºj°¬NnÃ Ë ¹ÄΨNnà Bà A Áȼ»A å ì ä ä ä ä ê å ê Ù å ä ä å ê æ ä æ ä ä ä å æ ê ä æ ä ì ê ì å Õ ä ©¼bÃ Ë ºj°¸Ã Ü Ë ºj¸rÃ Ë jÎb»A ¹Î¼§ ÓÄRÃ Ë ¹Î¼§ å ä æ ä ä ä å å æ ä ä ä ä å å æ ä ä ä æ ä æ ä æ ä ä æ ê æå ä ä æ ä ä Ë Ó¼và ¹» Ë fJ¨Ã ºBÍ A Áȼ»A ºjV°Í Å¿ ºjNÃ Ë ä æ éê ä å ä ä ä å å æ ä ä ì ê ì å Õ ä È ä å å æ ì æ ä å å æä ä ÓrbÃ Ë ¹NÀYi AÌUjÃ Ë f°ZÃË Ó¨nà ¹Î»A Ë fVnà Рæ ä ä ä ä ä æ ä æ å æ ä ä å ê æ ä ä Ð æ ä ä æ ä ê ä å å æ ä μZ¼¿ iB°¸»BI ¹IAh§ ÆA ¹IAh§ È Ñ ê å ê ì å æ ê ä ä ä ä ì ê ä ä ä ä allahumma inna nasta‘inuka wa nastaghfiruka wa − − − nu’minubika wa natawakkalu ‘alaika wa nuthni‘alaikal − khaira wa nashkuruka wa la nakfuruka wa nakhla‘u wa − natruka mañyyafjuruk allahumma iyyaka na‘budu walaka − − nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilaika nas‘a wa nahfidu wa narju ± − − ± − rahmataka wa nakhsha ‘adhabakainna ‘adhabaka bil ± − − − kuffari mulhiq − Allah! we beseech Your help and ask Your forgiveness and − believe in You and trust in You and praise You in the best manner; and we thank You and we are not ungrateful to You, and we cast off and forsake him who disobeys You.O Allah! You alone do we − serve and to You alone do we pray and we prostrate ourselves; and we rush to You and present ourselves, and we hope for Your mercy and we fear Your chastisement, for surely Your chastisement overtakes the disbelievers.( Baihaqi Vol.2, p 210; Sharah al-Sunnatul Imam Najvi, Vol 3, p 131, − − − & Tuhfatul Fuqha, Babul Salatul Vitr, p 372/1, Published in Damascus) − − ± − 115

Page 116

− ii.may be offered in combination of three Vitr Rak‘at − simultaneously or broken into two , then followed by Rak‘at − one.Holy Prophet and Promised Messiah used to Rak‘at sa as offer their Prayer as two followed by one Vitr Rak‘at − Rak‘at.iii.When are offered as two followed by one , Vitr Rak‘at Rak‘at − then for the third "One" , one does not need to recite Rak‘at the ( ) Thana Subhana kalla humma....− − iv.Prayer can be offered after completing the for Vitr Sunnah ‘Isha’ Tahajjud Prayer or can be offered with Prayers.− v.If have been offered with , then one may simply Vitr ‘Isha’ − offer the Prayer in the late part of the night.Tahajjud FRIDAY PRAYER SERVICE (SALATUL JUMU‘AH) ± − Friday is a special day for Muslims.The Holy Qur’an says: − ĄmB¯ Ò¨ÀV»A ÂÌÍ Å¿ Ñ̼v¼» ÔeÌà AgA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ æ ä æ ä ê ä å å æ ê æ ì æ ê ê Ð ì ê ä ê æ å ä ê æ Ø å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÆÌÀ¼¨M NÄ· ÆA ¸»jÎa Á¸»g ©ÎJ»A AËigË É¼»A j·g Ó»A , ‘ ‘ ä æ å ä æ ä æ å æ å æ ê æ å ì Ñ æ ä æ å ê Ð ä È æä æ å ä ä ê Õ ê æ ê Ð ê ya ayyuhalladhina amanu idha nudiya lissalati miñyyaumil − − − − − − ± ± − jumu‘ati fas‘au ila dhikrillahi wa dharul bai‘ dhalikum − − − khairullakum in kuntum ta‘lamun − O Ye who believe! when the call is made for Prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off business.That is better for all − you, if you only knew.(62:10) 116

Page 117

− Muslims have been enjoined to be particularly careful about the obligatory Friday Prayer.The Holy Prophet is reported to have sa said: Ü : ÏJÄ»A ¾B³ :¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÏmiB°»A ÆBÀ¼m ŧ D ä í ê ì ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä é å ê ê ä æ ä ä æ ä æ ä jÈñ»A Å¿ ªBñNmA B¿ jÈñNÍË Ò¨ÀV»A ÂÌÍ ½Ui ½nN¬Í ( ê æ í ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å ì ä ä ä ä ê ä å å æ å æ ä Ñ å ä å ê ä æ ä ¶j°Í ݯ XjbÍ ÁQ ,ÉNÎI KÎ Å¿ oÀÍ ËA ÉÄÇe Å¿ ÅÇfÍË å êé ä å ä ä å å æ ä ì å ê ê æä ê æ ê æ ê í ä ä æ Ú ê ê æ å æ ê å é ê ä å ä ÜA ÂB¿ÜA Á¼¸MAgA OvÄÍ ÁQ , É» KN· B¿ Ó¼vÍ ÁQ ,ÅÎÄQA ÅÎI ( ì ê å ä æê ä ì ä ä ä ê å ê æå ì å ä ä ê å ä æ é ê ä å ì å ê æä æ ä æä - ÔjaÜA Ò¨ÀV»A ÅÎI Ë ÉÄÎI B¿ É»j°« ( ä æ æ å ê ä å å æ ä æä ä å ä æä ä ä ä ê å an salmanal farisi qala: qalannabiyyu : la yaghtasilu rajulun ra sa − − − − − − yaumul jumu ati wa yata tahharu mastata a minattuhri wa ‘ ‘ ± ± − ±± yudahhinu min duhnihi ’au yamassu min tibi baitihi thumma ± − yakhruju fala yufarriqu bainathnaini thumma yusalli ma − ± − − kutiba lahu thumma yunsitu idha takallamal imamu illa − ± − − ghufira lahu ma bainahu wa bainal jumu atil ukhra ‘ − − Salman Farisi relates that the Holy Prophet said: 'He who takes bath on ra sa − − Friday, uses perfume, comes to Friday Service and does not intrude between two persons already seated, offers the Prayers and listens quietly when the Imam stands up for sermon, will have his sins forgiven between − that Friday and the next.' (Bukhari) − − ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ɼ»A fJ§ ÅIjIBU ŧ D ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ê Õ ê æ ä ê æ ê ê ä æ ä 117

Page 118

− - ÉJ¼³ Ó¼§ ɼ»A ©J ÑiËjy jΫ Å¿ BQÝQ Ò¨ÀV»A ºjM Å¿ × ê æ ä Ð ä ä Õ ä ä ä î ä æ å å ê æ ä æ ê í ä ä ê ä å å æ ä ä ä æ ä ‘ an jabirin ‘abdillahi qala qala rasulullah man tarakal ra sa − − − − − − jumu ati thalathan min ghairi dururatin taba allaha ala ‘ ‘ ‘ − ± − ± − − qalbihi − Hadrat Jabir ibn ‘Abdullah narrates that the Holy Prophet stated: ra sa ± ± − − 'Anyone who misses three consecutive Friday Prayers without a genuine reason, God Almighty puts a seal on that person's heart.' (S unun ibni Majah) − Friday is the holy day for Muslim worship, with a congregational service held at time of Prayer.The Zuhr Imam ± − delivers a sermon ( ), and then two Prayer is offered Khutbah Rak‘at ± − in congregation.This is known as Prayer.The recitation of Jumu ah ‘ the Qur’anic verse is loud.There are two , the first is just Adhans − − like that of and the second one is just before the stands Zuhr Imam ± − to deliver the sermon.The sermon consists of two parts.In the first, the addresses the Muslims in the local language.When he Imam − finishes his first sermon, he sits down for a moment and then stands up and reads the second part, the , in Khutbah Thaniyya ± − Arabic language, as follows: ½·ÌNÃ Ë ÉI Å¿ÌÃ Ë Êj°¬NnÃ Ë ÉÄΨNnÃ Ë ÊfÀZà ɼ» fÀZ»A ( ( ( å ì ä ää ä × ê å ê Ù å ä å ê æ ä æ ä ä å æ ê ä æ ä ä å ä æ ä ê Õ ê å æ ä æä Å¿ BÄ»BÀ§A P BÎm Å¿ Ë BÄn°ÃA iËjq Å¿ ɼ»BI gÌ¨Ã Ë Éμ§ æ ä äê ä æ ä ê Ð éê ä æ ê ä ä ê å æä ê æ å å æ ê ê Õ ê å æ å ä ä ê æ ä ä ÆA fÈrÃ Ë É» ÔeBÇ Ý¯ ɼ¼zÍ Å¿Ë É» ½z¿ ݯ ɼ»A ÊfÈÍ ( ( æ ä å ä æ ä ä È ä ê ä ä ä å æ ê æ í æ ä ä ä ì ê å ä ä å Õ ê ê æ ì Ë Ê fJ§ AfÀZ¿ Æ A fÈrÃ Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfYË É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ( ( ( ä å æ ä ç ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì ÆBnYÜAË ¾f¨»BI j¿ BÍ É¼»A ÆA ɼ»A Á¸ÀYi ɼ»AeBJ§ É»Ìmi ( ê ä æ æê ä ê æ ä æ ê å å Ù ä å Õ ì ê å Õ å å ä ê ä ê Õ ä ä ê È å æ å ä 118

Page 119

− Á¸¤¨Í ϬJ»AË j¸ÄÀ»AË ÕFrZ°»A ŧ ÓÈÄÍ Ë ÓIj´»A Ôg ÕBNÍA Ë æ å å ê ä ê æ ä æ ä ê ä æ å æ ä ê ä æ ä æ ê ä Ð æä ä Ð æ å æ ê ê ä æê ä Á¸» KVNnÍ Ȩ̂eAË Á·j· hÍ É¼»A AËj· gA ÆËj·hM Á¸¼¨» , æ å ä æ ê ä æ ä å æ å æ ä æ å æ å æ ä ä Õ å å æå ä æ å ì ä ä æ å ì ä ä - jJ·A ɼ»A j·h»Ë È å ä æ ä ê Õ å æ ê ä ä Alhamdulillahi nahmaduhu wa nasta‘inuhu wanastaghfiruhu ± − ± − − − − wa nu’minubihi wa natawakkalu ‘alaih wa na‘udhubillahi min − − − shururi anfusina wa min sayyi ati a‘malina mañyyahdi hillahu − − − − − − fala mudilla lahu wa mañyyudlilhu fala hadiyalah wa nash hadu − ± − ± − − alla ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa nash hadu anna − − − ± − − − − muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ‘ibadallah rahimakumullah ± − − − − ± − innallaha ya’maru bil‘adli wal ihsani wa ‘ita’i dhilqurba wa − ± − − − − yanha ‘anilfahsha’i walmunkari walbaghyi ya ’iuzukum la − ± − ± ‘allakum tadhakkarun udhkurullaha yadhkurkum wad‘uhu − − − yastajiblakum wala dhikrullahi akbar.− All praise is due to Allah, we laud Him, we beseech help from Him and − ask His protection; we confide in Him, we trust Him alone and we seek Allah's protection against the evils and mischiefs of our souls and from − the bad results of our deeds.Whomsoever Allah guides on the right path, − none can misguide him; and whomsoever He declares misled, none can guide him to the right path.And we bear witness that none deserves to be worshipped except Allah.He is Alone, and has no partner.We bear − witness that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.O Servants of ± Allah! may Allah be merciful to you! Verily, Allah commands you to act − − − with justice, to confer benefits upon each other and to do good to others as one does to one's kindred and forbids evil which pertain to your own selves and evils which affect others and prohibits revolt against a lawful authority.He warns you against being unmindful.You remember Allah; − He too will remember you; call Him and He will make a response to your call.And verily Divine remembrance is the highest virtue.(Abu Da’ud Kitabus-Salat Baburrajal Yakhtab 'ala Qaus p 156/1) − − − − ± ± − − − 119

Page 120

− Attendance in the Friday Prayer is obligatory for Muslim men, and women should attend whenever they are able to do so.i.Before attending Prayers, A Muslim should follow Jumu ah ‘ the of the Holy Prophet and take a complete bath, Sunnah sa put on clean clothes, use perfume and avoid taking odorous food.After Prayer, Muslims may go back to their Jumu‘ah businesses.ii.Four of are to be offered before the Friday Rak‘at Sunnah − Sermon starts, even if and Prayers are to be Zuhr ‘Asr ± ± combined, or while in journey.iii.If one joins when the sermon has already started, then two Rak‘at Sunnah of should be offered instead of the − compulsory four.Rak‘at − iv.If one joins when the sermon has finished, then join the congregational Prayers and offer two at the end of Rak‘at − the Prayer.If Prayer is going to be combined, Jumu‘ah ‘Asr ± then one needs not to offer any 'make-up' to Sunnah compensate the missed.Sunnah v.There are two for the Friday Prayer.The additional Adhans − Adhan was introduced by Hadrat ‘Uthman.ra − ± ± − vi.A minimum of three people are required to have the Friday (Jumu‘ah) Prayers.However, if there are only two people, for that also Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi has as ± ± − given permission of saying the Prayer.Jumu ah ‘ (Malfuzat, Vol.9, p 214) − − vii.While the sermon is being delivered, talking or even playing with objects as small as a thorn have been disliked by the Holy Prophet.sa 120

Page 121

− ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi pËA ÅI pËA ŧ ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä î æ ä ê æ ê æ ä æ ä Å¿ Ó¼§ AËjR·B¯ Ò¨ÀV»A Å¿ ÆA D ÌÍ ¸¿BÍA ½z¯A ’ ‘ ä ê ì ä ä æ å ê æ ä ä ê ä å å æ ä æ ä æ å ê ì ä ê ä æä ê ì ê - Ó¼§ ÒyËj¨¿ ¸M̼u ÆB¯ Éί Ñ̼v»A ‘ ( ì ä ä Ñ æ å æ ä æ å ä Ð ä ì ê ä ê æ ê ê Ð ì an ausibni ausin qala qala rasulullahi : inna min afdali ra sa − − − ± ayyamikum yaumal Jumu‘ati fa akthiru ‘alayya − − minassalati fihi, fa inna salatakum m‘arudatun ‘alayya ± ± − − ± − − ± Aus ibn Aus relates that the Holy Prophet said: The best of ra sa your days is Friday, then invoke blessings upon me frequently on that day, for your invocation is conveyed to me.(Abu Da’ud Kitabus-Salat Bab Tafri‘ Abwabul Jumu‘ah) − − − − ± ± − − − − Sujudus-Sahv (Prostrations of Condonement) − If a person commits a mistake during Prayer, which affects the validity of the Prayer, e.g., if he is in doubt whether he has offered the prescribed number of , the Prostrations of condonement are Rak‘at − necessary.The Prostrations are offered after the recitation of , Attashshahud and , and other prescribed prayers in the final of the Prayer.Durud Qa‘dah − Thus after saying , two prostrations are performed, in which Allahu akbar − subhana rabbi yal a‘la Imam Qa‘dah is recited, then the reverts back to ± − − − position and says turning his face Assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah − ± − towards the right and then towards the left, to mark end of the Prayer.If the commits such a mistake which can be condoned by the Imam − Prostrations, then the whole congregation have to perform those Prostrations of condonement.However, if one of the followers commits a mistake while following the , he is not required to perform the Imam − Prostrations of condonement.121

Page 122

− If there is a doubt as to how many have been performed, Rak‘at − then one should observe the rule of certainty, i.e., if the doubt is whether one has offered three or four , for instance, one should offer the Rak‘at − fourth to be on the safe side though one might have offered it Rak‘at before.(Salat: The Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International Publications, ± − − London, UK, pp 62-63) b) Voluntary Prayers Nawafil − In addition to the obligatory Prayers, Muslims may offer voluntary Prayers.These additional of Prayer apart from Rak‘at − Fard Sunnah Rak‘at Nawafil Nafal.and are called Prayers or Those ± − − who voluntarily offer Prayers reap the benefits of Allah's Nawafil − − favors.Nawafil Prayers are as follows: − 1.Eight of.Rak‘at Tahajjud − 2.Two after the two of at the Rak‘at Rak‘at Sunnah − − end of Prayer.Zuhr ± 3.Four before of Prayer.Rak‘at Fard ‘Asr − ± ± 4.Two after two of in Rak‘at Rak‘at Sunnah Maghrib − − Prayer.5.Four of.The Prayer consists of two Rak‘at Ishraq − − phases; offering two when the sun has risen Rak‘at − for a while but not enough to have heated up the environment (approximately up to two hours after the sunrise).Once the latter has occurred, this is the second phase, in which one may offer four or eight Rak‘at Salatul Ishraq.The first phase is known as − ± − − and the second.It also has been named Salatul Duha ± − ± − Salatul Awwabin.However, in some Traditions, the ± − − − 122

Page 123

− six Prayer offered in between and Rak‘at Maghrib − ‘Isha’ Salatul Awwabin Prayers is called.− ± − − − 6.Two offered when one enters a mosque.Rak‘at − 7.Two offered when seeking blessings from Rak‘at − God Almighty.8.Two offered as Thanksgiving Prayer.Rak‘at − 9.And more.One may offer as many Prayers as one wishes.Nawafil − However, should not be offered during the forbidden times Nawafil − for Prayers.For example, they should not be offered between ‘Asr ± Prayer and Prayer.Maghrib (Salat: A Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International Publications Ltd., ± − − London, UK, pp 50-51) When Prayers are offered in latter part of the night Nawafil − these are called Prayer.Literally, means giving Tahajjud Tahajjud up of sleep.Thus, Prayer is offered during the latter part Tahajjud of the night after sleeping for a while.123

Page 124

− Tahajjud Prayer The Muslims are encouraged to acquire a habit of early to bed and early to rise.The Prayer which is performed at the end of the night is called.It is not obligatory, but it is a very Tahajjud highly emphasized optional prayer.is specifically Tahajjud mentioned in the Holy Qur’an as very beneficial for man's spiritual − development and a method to gain nearness to Allah.− It is stated in the Holy Qur’an: − ¹» Ò¼¯Bà ÉI fVÈN¯ ½Î»A Å¿Ë ¶ ó ä ì í ä ê ä × ê æ ì ä ä ä ê æ ì ä ê ä wami nallaili fa tahajjad bihi nafila tallak − − And wake up for it (The Qur’an) in the night as the latter part of − a supererogatory service for thee.(17:80) ÝÍÌ Ýλ ÉZJm Ë É» fVmB¯ ½Î»A Å¿Ë , ( í æ ê ä í æ ä å æ é ê ä ä ä æ å æ ä ê æ ì ä ê ä wa minallaili fasjudu lahu wa sabih hu lailan tawila − − ± ± − − And during the night prostrate thyself before Him, and extol His glory for long night (76:27) a part of the The Holy Prophet has stated that after the compulsory sa Prayers Prayer is the best Prayer., Tahajjud ¸Î¼§ :¾B³ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÆA Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ¾ÝI ŧ ‘ D æ å æ ä ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ì ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä î ä ê æ ä ½Î¼»A Bγ ÆA Ë ¸¼J³ ÅÎZ»Bv»A LAe ÉÃB¯ ½Î¼»A BδI ’ ‘ ( ’ ê æ ì ä ä ê ì ê ä æ å ä æ ä ä æ ê ê ì å æ ä ì ê ä ê æ ì ê ä ê ê 124

Page 125

− Ñejñ¿Ë PB×În¼» jΰ¸MË Q ÜA ŧ ÑBÈÄ¿ Ë É¼»A Ó»A ÒIj³ ‘ Ñ ä ê æ å ä ê ä éê ì ê Ñ æ ê æ ä ä ê æ æê ê ä Ñ ä æ ä ä ê Õ ä ê Ñ ä æ å - fnV»A ŧ ÕAf» ê ä ä æ ê ä ê ì ê ‘an bilalin anna rasulallahi qala: ‘alaikum bi qiyamillaili fa ra sa − − − − − innahu da’bussalihina qablakum wa inna qiyamallaili − ± ± − ± − − qurbatun ilallahi wa manhatun ‘anil-ithmi wa takfirun − − − lissayyi’ati wa mutridatun lidda’i ‘anil-jasadi − ± − Bilal relates that the Holy Prophet said: 'You should offer ra sa Tahajjud − Prayer regularly as this was the way of the earlier saintly persons and this is the way to achieve nearness to God.Furthermore, this habit (of offering Prayer) safeguards from sins, repels evil and protects Tahajjud from physical afflictions.' (Tirmidhi Abwabud Da‘wat) − − − Sunnah It was of the Holy Prophet that he used to offer sa eight as Prayer Rak‘at Tahajjud − Remembrance of Allah After Finishing the Prayer − Remembrance of Allah after finishing the Prayer is established by − the practice of the Holy Prophet of Islam.sa − Hadrat ‘A’isha relates that after finishing his Prayer, the Holy ra ± ± − Prophet would continue sitting long enough to recite the following sa prayers: ¾ÝV»A Ag BÍ O·iBJM , ÂÝn»A ¹Ä¿ Ë , ÂÝn»A OÃA Áȼ»A ê ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä ää å ä ì ä æ ê ä å ä ì ä æä ì å Õ ä ÂAj· AË j ê ä æ ê ä 125

Page 126

− allahumma antassalam wa minkassalam tabarakta ya dhal − − − − − jalali wal ikram − − O our Lord! Thou art (The embodiment of) peace.And true peace comes from Thee.Blessed art Thou, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty (Sahih Muslim, Kitabul Masajid wa mawazi-us-Salat, Bab ± ± − ± − − − ± ± − − Istihbab-udhdhikr ba‘ad-is-Salat) − ± ± − ¹MeBJ§ ÅnY Ë ºj¸q Ë ºj·g Ó¼§ ÓħA Áȼ»A ä ê ä ä ê ê æ å ä ä ê æ å ä ä ê æ ê Ð ä æ é ê êä ì å Õ ä allahumma a‘inni ‘ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni − − − ± ‘ibadatika − O my Lord, help me so that I can properly perform Thy remembrance and Thy thanksgiving, and that I may worship Thee in the best possible manner.(Sunan Abu Da’ud Kitabus-Salat) − − − − ± ± − ©°ÄÍ Ü Ë O¨Ä¿ BÀ» Óñ¨¿ Ü Ë OÎñ§A BÀ» ©ÃB¿ Ü Áȼ»A ( å ä æä ä ä ä æ ä ä ä ê ä ê æ å ä ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ê ä ê ä ä ì å Õ ä fV»A ¹Ä¿ fV»A Ag í ä æ ä æ ê é ê ä æ ä allahumma la mani‘a lima a‘taita wa la mu‘tiya lima mana‘ta − − − − ± − ± − − wala yanfa‘u dhaljaddi minkal jaddu O Allah, nobody can hold back whatever You have granted and none can grant what Thou hold back.And no great person can benefit from his greatness in opposition to Thy Greatness.(Sahih Bukhari, Kitabus-Salat, Bab Dhikr Ba‘ad Salat; Hadiqatus-Salihin, p 100) ± ± − ± − − − ± ± − − ± − ± − ± ± − ± − 126

Page 127

− A tradition of the Holy Prophet states the following about sa remembering Allah after finishing the Prayer: − Å¿ :¾B³ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ŧ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ D æ ä ä ä ê Õ ê æ å ä æ ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä Ë BQÝQ ɼ»AfÀY Ë ÅÎQÝQË BQÝQ Ñ̼u ½· jIe Ó¯ ɼ»A \Jm ì í ä ä ä Õ ä ê ä ä ä æêä ä ì í ä ä î Ð ä é ê å ê å å æ ê ä Õ ä ì ä ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü : ÒÖBÀ»A ÂBÀM ¾B³Ë ÅÎQÝQ Ë BQÝQ ɼ»AjJ· Ë ÅÎQÝQ å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä Ø ê ä ê æ ä ä ä ä ä ä ä æêä ä ì í ä ä ä Õ ä ì ä ä ä æêä ä Õ Óq ½· Ó¼§ ÌÇË fÀZ»A É» Ë ¹¼À»A É» - É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfYË ( ( î æ ä é ê å Ð ä ä å ä å æ ä æ å ä ä å æ å æ å ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä -jZJ»AfIk ½R¿ Oà B· ÆA Ë ÊBÍBña Pj°« jÍf³ ( ê æ ä æ ê ä ä ê æ ê æ ä ä æ ê ä å ä ä ä æ ä ê å Ñ æ ê ä ‘an abi hurairata ‘an rasulillahi qala: man sabba hallaha fi ra sa − − ± − duburi kulli salatin thalathañwwa thalathina wa hamidallaha ± − − − − ± − thalathañwwa thalathina wa kabbarallaha thalathañwwa − − − − − thalathina wa qala tamamal mi’ati: la ilaha illallahu wahdahu − − − − − − ± − la sharikalahu, lahul mulku walahul hamd wa huwa ‘ala kulli − − − ± − shai’in qadir, ghufirat khatayahu wa in kanat mithli zabadil − ± − − − bahri ± Hadrat Abu Huraira narrates that the Holy Prophet said: 'Anyone who ra sa ± ± − after the Prayer, says , 33 times; , 33 times, Subhanallah Alhamdu lillah ± − − ± − Allahu akbar, 33 times and one time following prayer, to make the total − one hundred, all of his sins, even if these are more than foam of the sea ( ), will be forgiven.' i.e.these are too many ÌÇ Ë fÀZ»A É» Ë ¹¼À»A É» - É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfYË É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ( ( ä å ä å æ ä æ å ä ä å æ å æ å ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä jÍf³ Õ Óq ½· Ó¼§ Ñ æ ê ä î æ ä é ê å Ð ä 127

Page 128

− la ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalahu, lahul mulk wala hul − − − ± − − − − hamd wa huwa ‘ala kulli shai’in qadir ± − − There is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is One and has no − partner.His is the Kingdom, His is the praise, and He has power over all things.(Muslim Kitabus-Salat, Bab Dhikr Ba‘ad Salat) − ± ± − − ± − It is also related in the Books of Traditions that on some occasions, the Holy Prophet used to sit among his followers and raise his hands to sa pray for those who requested him to pray for them.However, as is evident from what Hadrat ‘A’isha has related, it was not the normal practice of ra ± ± − the Holy Prophet to raise hands in silent prayer after he had finished his sa Prayer.This occasional gesture of the Holy Prophet which has been sa reported in some Traditions has mistakenly been generalized.The result has been that certain sects in Islam regard it as his normal practice − ( ), while in fact, this was not his common practice.The Ahmadiyya Sunnah ± Muslim Community is of the view that to raise hands to pray after finishing the Prayer was not the common practice ( ) of the Holy Sunnah Prophet.His practice was to sit for a while remembering Allah and sa − reciting prayers without raising his hands.(Salat: A Muslim Prayer Book, Islam International Publications Ltd., ± − − London, UK, pp 46-47) Dhikr-i-Ilahi (Remembrance of Allah) − − − Islam also provides prayers for every need and occasion.Another − form of prayer is remembrance of Allah ( ) throughout the day.Dhikr-i-Ilahi − − − To remember Allah and to ponder over His attributes brings one near to − Him.Regarding , God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: Dhikr − ¸IÌÄV ¼§ ËAę³ Ë BÀγ ɼ»A AËj·gB¯ Ñ̼v»A NÎz³ AgB¯ ‘  ‘ æ ô å ê æ å å Ð ä ì í æ å å ì í Ð ê ä Õ å å æ ä ä Ð ì å å æ ä ä ä ê ä 128

Page 129

− fa idha qadaitumussalata fadhkurulla ha qiyamañwwa − ± ± ± − − − qu‘udañwwa ‘ala junubikum − − − And when you have finished the Prayer, remember Allah while standing, − and sitting, and on your sides.(4:104) lying ÝÎuA Ë Ñj¸I ¹Ii mAj·gAË , ‘ ó ô í æ ê ä ì í ä æ å ä éê ä ä æ ê å æ ä wadhku risma rabbika bukratañwwa asila ± − And remember the name of thy Lord, morning and evening.(76:26) Further, it is stated in the Holy Qur’an: − Ë Ñj¸I ÊÌZJm Ë AjÎR· Aj·g ɼ»A AËj·gA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ , ì í ä æ å å æ å éê ä ì ö í æê ä í æ ê ä Õ å å æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÝÎuA , í æ ê ä ya ayyuhalladhina amanudhku rullaha dhikran kathirañwwa − − − − − sabbi hu hu bukratañwwa asila ± − ± − O ye who believe! remember Allah with much remembrance; And glorify − Him morning and evening.(33:42-43) ÆÌZ¼°M Á¸¼¨»A jÎR· ɼ»A AËj·gAË , ô ä æ å ê æ å æ å ì ä ì í æê ä ä Õ å å æ ä wadhkurullaha kathiralla 'allakum tuflihun − − − And remember Allah much that you may prosper (8:46) − 129

Page 130

− Å ÀñM ɼ»Aj·hI ÜA ɼ»Aj·hI ÈI̼³ Å ÀñM Ë AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A s ‘ s í Ó ê ä æ ä ê Õ ê æ ê ê ä ä ê È Õ ê æ ê ê æ å å æ å å í Ó ê ä æ ä ä æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä L̼´»A , È å æ å å æ alladhina amanu wa tatma’innu qulubuhum bi dhikrilla ala bi − − − ± − − − dhikrilla hi tatma’innul qulub − ± − Those who believe, and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of Allah.Aye! it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort.− − (13:29) jJ·A ɼ»Aj·h»Ë å È ä æ ä ê Õ å æ ê ä ä wala dhikrulla hi akbar − And remembrance of Allah indeed is the greatest.(29:46) virtue − A tradition of the Holy Prophet explains the importance of sa Dhikri Ilahi: − − ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ ÝUi ÆA Éħ ɼ»A Ïyi jnI ÅI ɼ»A fJ§ ŧ ê Õ ä æ å ä ä ä í å ä ì ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä î æ å ê æ ê Õ ê æ ä æ ä OJRMA ÕÓrI ÓÃjJaB¯ Ó¼§ PjR· f³ Ým ÜA ©ÖAjq ÆA ’ D å ì ää ä î æ ä ê æ ê æ ê æä ä ì ä ä æ ä å ä æ ä ê ä æ æê ä ê ä ä ì ê - ɼ»A j·g Å¿ BJi ¹ÃBn» Ü ¾AlÍ ¾B³ ÉI ê Õ ê æ ê æ ê í æ ä ä ê Ù ä ê ä å ä ä ä ä × ê ‘an ‘abdillahibni busrin anna rajulan qala rasulallahi inna ra sa − − − − shara’i 'alislami qad kathurat ‘alayya fa akhbirni b shai’in ata i − − − thabbatu bihi qala yazalu la lisa’nika ratban min dhikrilla hi − − − − − ± − Hadrat ‘Abdullah ibn Busr narrates that a person said: "O Prophet of ra ± ± − Allah! In Islam there are many laws of.Please tell me one such Shar'iah − − 130

Page 131

− item on which I could act upon specifically." The Holy Prophet said: sa 'You should be always doing (Remembrance of Allah).' Dhikri Ilahi − − − (Tirmidhi) − Another tradition of the Holy Prophet about is as sa Dhikri Ilahi − − follows: ÆBNÀ¼· : ÓJÄ»A ¾B³ ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ D ê ä ä ê ä í ê ì ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä :ÆAlÎÀ»A Ó¯ ÆBN¼Î´Q ÆBn¼»A Ó¼§ ÆBN°Î°a ÅÀYj»AÓ»A ÆBNJÎJY ê ê ä æ ê æ ê ê ä ä æ ê ä ê ä é ê ä ä ê ä ä æ ê ä ê Ð æ ì ä ê ê ä ä æê ä ÁΤ¨»A ɼ»A ÆBZJm ÊfÀZI Ë É¼»A ÆBZJm ê æ ê ä æ ê Õ ä ä æ å × ê æ ä ê ä ê Õ ä ä æ å ‘an abi hurairata qala qalannabiyyu : "kalimatani habibatani ra sa − − − − ± − − ilarrahmani khafifatani ‘alallisani thaqilatani fil mizani: ± − − − − − − − − "subhanallahi wabi hamdihi subhanalla hil ‘a im." z ± − − ± − ± − − ± − Abu Huraira relates that the Holy Prophet said: "There are two ra sa − expressions which are very dear to God, the Beneficent.They are light on the tongue (that is, they are easy to pronounce) but are immensely weighty in substance, and they are: ÁΤ¨»A ɼ»A ÆBZJm ÊfÀZI Ë É¼»A ÆBZJm ê æ ê ä æ ê Õ ä ä æ å × ê æ ä ê ä ê Õ ä ä æ å 'Exalted is Allah with all His Glory; Exalted is Allah with all His − Majesty.'" (Bukhari) − − 131

Page 132

− Du‘a’ (Silent Supplication) − Du‘a’ (lit."Calling") is an "individual" or a collective silent − supplication in which the worshipper expresses his personal sentiments and petitions to God.Thus, a Muslim may pray silently to Allah at any − time.This is known as.Du‘a’ − God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ÆB§e AgA ªAf»A Ņ̃e KÎUA KÍj³ ÓÃB¯ Óħ ÔeBJ§ ¹»Bm AgA Ë ê ö ä ä ä ê ê ì ä ä æ ä å æ ê å Ñ È æ ê ää æ éê ê ää æ é ê ä æ ê ä ê ä ä ä ä ä ê ä wa idha sa-alaka ‘ibadi ‘anni fa inni qarib ’ujibu da‘watadda’i − − − − − − − − idha da‘an − − And when My servants ask thee about Me, I am near.I answer the say: prayer of the supplicant when he prays to Me.(2:187) A tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding is: sa Du‘a’ − ɼ»A ÆA :¾B³ ÓJÄ»A ŧ Éħ ɼ»A Ïyi ÓmiB°»A ÆBÀ¼m ŧ D ä Õ ì ê ä ä é ê ê ì ê ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä é ê ê ê ä æ ä ä æ ä æ ä Aj°u BÀÇejÍ ÆA ÉÍfÍ ÉλA ½Uj»A ©¯i AgA ÓZNnÍ Íj· ÓY ‘ í æ ê ä å ì å ì æ ä ê æ ä ä ê æ ä ê å å ì ä ä ä ä ê × æ ä æ ä Ñ æ ê ä ï ä -ÅÎNJ Ba n ê æä äê ä ‘an salmanal farisiyyi ‘aninnabiyyi qala innallaha hayyun ra sa − − − − ± karimun yastahyi idha rafa‘arrajulu ilaihi yadaihi añyyarudda − ± − − huma sifran kha’ibataini − ± − Hadrat Salman Farisi narrates that the Holy Prophet stated: "God ra sa ± ± − − − Almighty is very Bashful, Noble, and Generous.When someone raises his hands towards God Almighty, God Almighty feels shy to send the 132

Page 133

− person empty handed and unsuccessful, i.e., God Almighty does not reject the prayer done with sincerity of the heart, rather, He accepts it." (Tirmidhi Kitabudda‘wat) − − − Another tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding states: sa Du‘a’ − : ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ :¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Ïyi iBnÍ ÅI ¹»B¿ ŧ D ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä î ä ä ê æ ê ê ä æ ä Ë BÇiÌȤI Ê̼ nM ÜË ¸°·A ÆÌñJI Ê̼ mB¯ ɼ»A N»Bm AgA s ‘ s ‘ ä ä ê æ å å ê å æ å Ú æ ä ä ä æ å é ê å ä ê æ å åê å æ å Ú æ ä ä Õ å å æä ä ä ê ÆÌñJI ɼ»A A̼m :¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Ïyi pBJ§ ÅIA ÒÍAËi Ó¯ ê æ å åê ä Õ å ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä î é ê ä ê æ ê ä ä ê æ ê BÈI AÌZn¿B¯ N«j¯ AgB¯ BÇiÌȤI ÊÌ»BnM Ü Ë ¸°·A ‘ ‘ ä ê æ å ä æ ä æ å æ ä ä ä ê ä ä ê æ å å ê å æ å ä æ ä ä ä æ å é ê å ä - ¸ÇÌUË ‘ æ å ä æ å å ‘an malikibni yasarin qala: qala rasulullahi : idha sa ra sa − − − − − − − altumullaha fas’aluhu bi butuni a-kuffikum wa la tas’aluhu bi − − ± − − − zuhuriha wa fi rivayatibni ‘abbasin qala: salullaha bi butuni ra ± − − − − − − − ± − a-kuffikum wa la tas aluhu bi uhuriha fa idha faraghtum z − − ± − − − famsahu biha wujuhakum ± − − − Hadrat Malik bin Yasar narrates that the Holy Prophet stated: "When ra sa ± ± − − you pray to God Almighty raise your hands spreading the palms of the hands towards you and do not turn palms of the hands backward, and when you finish praying rub the both hands on your face." (Abu Da’ud Kitabus-Salat Babuddu'a ) ’ − − − − ± ± − − − It is an attribute of Allah to listen to one who calls unto Him.He − accepts the prayers of His servants.This Divine attribute, like others, has always been present.Although, the manifestations of this attribute is the most powerful and effective means of strengthening the relationship 133

Page 134

− between the Creator and His servants, it is a shame that today only a formal belief remains of this attribute of Allah in the majority of Muslims.− The Holy Qur’an claimed this attribute to be a proof of existence of − God: ÕÌn»A ±r¸ÍË ÊB§e AgA jñzÀ»A KÎVÍ Å¿A ä æ Ø í å ê æ ä ä å ä ä ä ê ì ä æ å æ å æ ê í æ ì ä ammañyyujibul mudtarra idha da‘ahu wa yakshifussu-’a − ± ± − − − Or, Who answers the distressed person when he calls upon Him, and removes the evil.(27:63) How can you deny the existence of God when you submit to Him in anxiety and call upon His mercy and He takes mercy on your desperation and helplessness and removes your problem? Allah does not lay the − condition of belief and good deeds with the call of a distressed person.When a person is truly distressed and bows to the Almighty with total humility and seeks His mercy with a yielding heart, then He certainly shows mercy and listens to the call of the person.In such a situation, He does not consider the everyday insolence and rebellion of that person.Indeed, for His obedient and humble servants, who maintain a real relationship with Him, seek His pleasure and consider everything insignificant when compared to His pleasure, His treatment is most kind.A most unique relationship is established between Him and such people.Although the world does see the signs and results of such a relationship, it is only truly understood by these people themselves.The people may not hold any apparent significance, but in Allah's eyes they are the Chosen − Ones.......Allah, the Exalted, has a separate and distinct way of dealing − with each person with compassion, affection and love....The Holy Prophet said that some people appear to be unkempt and in dire straits, sa however, trusting Allah implicitly they at times articulate that such and − such will happen like so.Allah, the Exalted, keeps such regard that He − makes it so.134

Page 135

− The attribute of God to accept prayers is a most invigorating glad tiding for mankind.It creates a sense of satisfaction and contentment and indeed courage.When a believer goes through an extremely difficult time or is faced with great fear or danger, he certainly finds solace in the belief that his Lord is always with him and whenever he will supplicate to Him, He shall listen to his call, and that He listens to prayers.This belief alleviates all fear.This message has been given to mankind in the Holy Qur’an: − AgA ªAf»A Ņ̃e KÎUA KÍj³ ÓÃB¯ Óħ ÔeBJ§ ¹»Bm AgA Ë ä ê ê ì ä ä æ ä å æ ê å È Ñ æ ê ä æ éê ê ä æ é ê æ ê ä ê ä ä ä ä ä ê ä ÆB§e ê ö ä ä wa idha sa-alaka ‘ibadi ‘anni fa inni qarib ujibu d‘awatadda‘i − − − − − − − − idha da‘an − − And when My servants ask thee about Me, : I am near.I answer the say prayer of the supplicant when he prays to Me.(2:187) What could be more satisfying and comforting than this that the All-Powerful Being in Whose Power is everything and nothing is out of the confines of His Power and nothing is beyond Him, actually tells us not to be anxious, that He is always near us and that He shall give us whatever we ask for, that He can change all grief to happiness.No one can encompass His blessings and grace.......Our vision is limited.At times we are unaware of what is best for us, and it is possible that we pray for something that is in actual fact harmful for us and can hinder our progress.To accept such a prayer would be against Allah's attribute of Mercy.Although we are unaware but indeed − He knows that such and such is harmful for us.At times we have to go through hardship for our own betterment.In any case when Allah listens to − His servants, at times, He also makes man listen to Him.It is a fact that a sincere supplication is not wasted.If it is not accepted in its actual nature, Allah always compensates for it....− 135

Page 136

−...It is a pity that Muslims of this age have turned away from this attribute of Allah and have practically rejected it.What a huge favor have − they lost! Some have openly said that prayer is merely a means to satisfy oneself and that it does not have an external influence.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi strongly rejected this and repeatedly wrote, inviting as − people, who did not have a belief in the effect of prayer, to visit him to see the signs of acceptance of prayer.So he declared: O, You who question the effects of prayers! Come to me! I shall provide you its proof like the shining sun.Do not reject the secrets of God's Power! Cut short this talk.Come to me, and witness yourself the acceptance of prayer.(Letter to a Dear One, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, pp 25-27) ± ± − Regarding acceptance of (prayer) the Promised Messiah and Du‘a’ − Mahdi writes: as − "When the blessings of Allah are near at hand, He provides the − pre-requisites for the acceptance of prayer.The heart is stirred, warms up and begins to glow.When, however, the moment is not opportune for the acceptance of prayer, the heart lacks that tranquillity which results in turning towards God.However much one exerts one's self, the heart does not respond by exhibiting willingness.It is so because at times God exerts His decree so that His Will be done, and at other times He concedes to the prayer of His servant.That is why as long as I do not perceive the signs of God's willingness, I do not entertain much hope for the acceptance of prayer.At such times, I submit to the Will of my Lord with greater pleasure than that which I derive from the acceptance of prayer.Indeed, I know that the blessings and fruits of his submission to the Will of God are greater by far." (Malfuzat Vol.1: p 460) − − 136

Page 137

− Various Other Prayers I stikharah Prayer − Istikharah (lit."Asking for the best choice"; Seeking goodness) is a − · practice, based upon the of the Holy Prophet of asking God for Sunnah sa guidance when faced with important decisions or perplexing situations.Istikharah Rak‘at consists of offering a two Prayer immediately before − − retiring to sleep along with a ’ in which one presents the problem to Du‘a − God and asks for guidance.A response may come in the form of a dream, a sign, or a sudden certitude.Du‘a-i-istikharah − − Å¿ ¹¼ mA Ë ¹Mif´I ºif´NmA Ë ¹À¼¨I ºjÎbNmA ÏÃA Áȼ»A s æ ê ä å Ú æ ä ä ê ä æ å ê ä å ê æ ä æ ä ä ä ê æ ê ê ä å æ ê ä æ ä æ éê Ø ê ì å Õ ä OÃAË Á¼§A Ü Ë Á¼¨M Ë if³A Ü Ë if´M ¹ÃB¯ ÁΤ¨»A ¹¼z¯ ä æä ä å ä æ ä ä ä å ä æ ä ä å ê æä ä ä å ê æ ä ä ì ê ä È ê æ ê ä æ ä ê æ ä Ó¯ Ó»jÎa j¿ÜA AhÇ ÆA Á¼¨M OÄ· ÆA Áȼ»A LÌά»A Âݧ ( æ ê æ éê Ñ æ ä ä æ æ ä ä Ð ì ä å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ê ì å Õ ä ê æ å å æ å ì ä ºiBI ÁQ Ó» ÊjnÍ Ë Ó» Êif³B¯ Ôj¿A ÒJ³B§Ë ÓqB¨¿ Ë ÓÄÍe æ ê ä é ä å æ ê å æ éê ä ä æ ê å æ å æ ä æ ê æ ä ê ä ê ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ê æ ê Ë ÓÄÍe Ó¯ Ó»jq j¿ÜA AhÇ ÆA Á¼¨M OÄ· ÆA Ë Éί Ó» ä æ ê æ ê æ ê æ éê Ñ ä ä æ æ ä ä Ð ì ä å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ê ä È ê æ ê æ ê Ï» if³AË Éħ ÓÃjuAË Óħ ɯjuB¯ Ôj¿A ÒJ³B§ Ë ÓqB¨¿ ä ê æ å æ ä å æ ä æ ê ê æ ä æ é ê ä å æ ê æ ä æ ê æ ä ê ä ê ä ä æ ê ä ä ÉI ÓÄyi ÁQ ÆB· SÎY jÎb»A È × ê æ ê éê ä ì å ä ä å æ ä ä æ ä æ allahumma inni astakhiruka bi ‘ilmika wa astaqdiruka biqudratika − − − wa as’aluka min fadlikal azim fa innaka taqdiru wa laaqdiru wa − ± ± − − ta‘lamu wa la a‘lamu wa anta ‘allamul ghuyuballahumma in kunta − − − − ta‘lamu anna hadhal amra khairulli fi dini − − − − − 137

Page 138

− wa ma‘ashi wa aqibati amri faqdurhuli wa yassirhuli thumma − − − − − − barikli fih wa in kunta ta‘lamu anna hadhal amra sharrulli fi dini wa − − − − − − − − ma‘ashi wa ‘aqibata amri fasrifhu ‘anni wasrifni ‘anhu waqdur li − − − − ± − ± − yalkhaira haithu kana thumma raddini bih.± − ± ± − Allah! I seek good from You out of Your knowledge and seek out of Your − Power, and beg of You out of Your boundless Grace, for You have Power and I have no power; and You have Knowledge and I have no knowledge; and You have the best Knowledge of all unseen.O Allah! If it be within − Your knowledge that this project is to my good in the matter of spiritual and worldly affairs, and in respect of my ultimate end, then make it possible for me and grant me facility concerning it; and bless it for me, but if it be within Your knowledge that this project is harmful in my spiritual and worldly affairs, and in respect of my ultimate end, then cause it to move away from me and cause me to move away from it, and designate for me good, wherever it may be, and then make me pleased with it.(Bukhari Kitabud Da‘wat Babud Du‘a’ ‘indal Istikhara, Tirmidhi − − − − − − − − Kitabud Da‘wat and Ibni Majah Kitab Iqamatus-Salat) − − − − − ± ± − Janaza Service (Funeral Prayer) − When it seems that someone is approaching his time of death, the recitation of (Chapter 36 of the Holy ) is Surah Ya Sin Qur’an − − − − recommended.The reason for this choice is that the topics dealt within this Surah are of a nature which alleviate the suffering of the person concerned − and give him a kind of spiritual comfort.One should also recite, in low but audible tone, the , and near the Kalimah Tayyabah Kalimah Shahadah ± − person concerned.Once the person dies, all those who are present and all who come to know of the death later, should recite: ÆÌ¨Ui ÉλA Fà A Ë É¼» BÃA , È ä æ å ê Ð ê æ ä ê ì ê ä ê Õ ê ì ê inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji‘un − − − − − 138

Page 139

− 'Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.' (2:157) − The eyes of the deceased should be closed by hand and a cloth should be used round his chin and head so that his mouth is closed.Instead of bewailing, one should remain calm and patient and attend to the funeral and burial arrangements.The transition from this world to the next and the disposal of a deceased are serious matters in all cultures and religions.In Islam death is − treated with great dignity.A deceased Muslim is given utmost respect and his body is handled according to the of the Holy Prophet.The Sunnah sa body is given a ritual bath, and wrapped in three white sheets before being put in a coffin.The body should be washed in the following manner: Fresh or lukewarm water should be used to wash the body three times.The practice of the Holy Prophet was to put some leaves of a sa Beri tree in the water for washing the dead body.First of all, those limbs, which are washed during normal (Ablution) should be washed, though it is wudu’ ± − not required to pour water in the mouth or nostrils to clean them or to wash the feet.Next the body should be washed, first the right side and then the left.Private parts of the body should remain covered by a cloth.Men alone can bathe male persons and women alone can bathe female persons.However, if it becomes necessary, then wife can give bath to her deceased husband and husband can give bath to his deceased wife.The body should then be wrapped in a shroud, which normally is made of an inexpensive white cloth.The shroud for men consists of three pieces of cloth; a top sheet to cover the top part of the body, a bottom sheet to cover the lower part and a large sheet to cover the whole body from head to feet.For a female, however, two additional pieces of cloth are used, one for the chest and the other for the head.After giving the bath it is permitted to see the face of the deceased.Men can see the face of a deceased man's face while women can see the face of a deceased woman.However, near relatives including 139

Page 140

− men and women can see the face of a deceased man or a woman.A martyr does not need either bathing or the shroud to wrap his body.He should be buried in the clothes he was wearing at the time of death.Islam instructs that one should arrange the burial with utmost − simplicity.After bathing and wrapping the body in a shroud, the body should be carried on shoulders to the place where Funeral prayer is to be performed.The Funeral prayer is held in the open or in a place built for this purpose called or in a Funeral Home.Janaza Gah − − The leads the prayer.The occupies a position Imam Janazah Imam − − − ahead of the first row and in the middle, with the body of the deceased resting in front of him.Those present for the funeral stand in odd number of rows behind the.The position of the dead body should be such Imam − that the right side of the body should be towards the.There is no Ka‘bah Ruku‘ Sajdah Janazah or in Prayer.− − (Salat: A Muslim Prayer Book, International Publications Ltd., London, UK pp ± − 72-73) There are only four.says first by raising his Takbirat Imam Takbir − − − − both hands to the earlobes After the first Takbir, Thana, Atta‘awwudh, − − Tasmiyyah Surah Al-Fatihah and then are recited silently: − − ± Thana − É»A Ü Ë ºfU Ó»B¨M Ë ¹ÀmA ºiBJM Ë ºfÀZI Ë Áȼ»A ¹ÄZJm ä Ð ê ä ä ä í ä Ð ä ä ä ä å æ ä ä ää ä ä ê æ ä ê ä ì å Õ ä ä Ð æ å ºjΫ ä å æ ä Atta‘awwu dh ÁÎUj»A ÅñÎr» A Å¿ ɼ»BI ģ A ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ä ê ê Õ ê å æ å ä 140

Page 141

− Tasmiyyah ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê Surah Al-Fatihah − − ± ÅÍf»A ÌÍ ¹¼¿ ÎYj»A ÅÀYj»A ÅÎÀ¼¨»A Li ɼ»fÀZ»A , ’ ,‘ , È ê æ éê ê æ ä ê ê Ð ö ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ö ä æ ê ä Ð æ é ê ä ê Õ ê å æ ä æä δNnÀ»A ¢Ajv»A BÃfÇA ÅΨNnà ºBÍA Ë fJ¨Ã ºBÍA ,‘ , ö ä æ ê ä æ å æ ä ä é ê ä ê æê È å æ ê ä æ ä ä ì ê ä å å æ ä ä ì ê ÜË Èμ§ LÌz¬À»A jΫ Èμ§ OÀ¨ÃA ÅÍh»A ¢Aju ‘ Œ ‘ ä ä æ ê æ ä ä ê æ å æ ä æ ê æ ä ö æ ê æ ä ä ä æ ä æä ä æ ê ì ä ä ê ÅλFz»A , ä æ éê ì After the second is recited: Takbir, Durud Sharif − − − AjIA Ó¼§ Oμu BÀ· fÀZ¿ ¾A Ó¼§ Ë fÀZ¿ Ó¼§ ½u Áȼ» A ä æê Ð ä ä æ ì ä ä ä î ì ä å ê Ð Ð ä ì î ì ä å Ð ä é ê ä ì å Õ ä fÎV¿ fÎÀY ¹Ã A ÁÎÇ AjIA ¾A Ó¼§ Ë ÁÎÇ Ñ ê ì Ñ æ ê ä ä ì ê ä æ ê ä æê ê Ð Ð ä ä ä æ ê Ó¼§ O·iBI BÀ· fÀZ¿ ¾A Ó¼§ Ë fÀZ¿ Ó¼§ ºiBI Áȼ» A Ð ä ä æ ä ä ä ä î ì ä å ê Ð Ð ä ì î ì ä å Ð ä æ ê ä ì å Õ ä fÎV¿ fÎÀY ¹Ã A ÁÎÇ AjI A ¾A Ó¼§ Ë ÁÎÇ AjIA Ñ ê ì Ñ æ ê ä ä ì ê ä æ ê ä æ ê ê Ð Ð ä ä ä æ ê ä æê After the third the following Takbir Du‘a’-i-Janazah (Funeral − − − Prayer) is recited: Du‘a’-i -Janazah (Funeral Prayer) − − 141

Page 142

− BÃjÎJ·Ë BÃjάuË BÄJ B« Ë BÃfÇBq Ë BÄNο Ë BÄÎZ» j°«A Áȼ» A r ä ê æê ä ä ä ê æ ê ä ä ä ê Þ ä ä ä ê ê ä ä ä ê ì ä ä ä é ê ä ê ê æ ê æ ì å Õ ä ÂÝm A Ó¼§ ÉÎYB¯ BÄ¿ ÉNÎÎYA Å¿ Áȼ» A.BÃBRÃA Ë BÃj·gË j ( ê ä æ ê ä ä × ê æ ä ä ì ê ä æä æ ä æ ä ì å Õ ä ä ä æå ä ä ê ä ä ä ÊjUA BÄ¿jZM Ü Áȼ» A.ÆBÀÍ A Ó¼§ ɯÌN¯ BÄ¿ ÉNίÌM Å¿Ë ( j ( ( ä æ ä ä æ ê æ ä ä ì å Õ ä ê ä æ ê ä ä ì ä ä ä ì ê ä æ ì ä ä æ ä ä.Êf¨I BÄN°M ÜË ( ä æ ä ì ê æ ä ä ä allahummaghfir li hayyina wa mayyatina wa shahidina wa − ± − − − − gha’ibina wa saghirina wa kabirina wa dhakarina wa unthana − − ± − − − − − − − allahumma man ahyaitahu minna fa-ahyihi ‘alal islam wa man − ± − − ± − − tawaffaitahu minna fa tawaffahu ‘alal ‘iman allahumma la − − − − − − − tehrimna ajrahu wa la taftinna ba‘dahu ± − − − − − O Allah! Forgive our living ones and our deceased ones and those of us − who are present and those who are absent, and our young ones and our old ones and our males and our females.O Allah! Those of us whom You grant life, keep them firm on Islam, and − − those of us whom You cause to die, cause them to die in the faith.Deprive us not, O Allah, of the benefits relating to the deceased and − subject us not to trial after him.(Tirmidhi Kitabul Jana’iz Bab ma yaqulu fi Salatal mayyat and Abu − − − − − − − ± − − Da’ud Kitabul Jana’iz wa Kitabud Du'a Lil Tibrani Vol.3S p 1351) ’ − − − − − − ± − − Note: If the deceased is a female, read BÇf¨I BÄN°M ÜË BÇjUA ä ä æ ä ì ê æ ä ä ä ä ä æ ä ajraha wa la taftinna ba‘daha − − − − instead of Êf¨I BÄN°M ÜË ÊjUA ( ( ä æ ä ì ê æ ä ä ä ä æ ä 142

Page 143

− ajrahu wa la taftinna ba‘dahu − − − − In the case of a male child, the following Du‘a’-i-Janazah (Funeral − − Prayer) Takbir is recited after the third in place of the above − Du‘a’-i-Janazah (Funeral Prayer): − − Ë Ajag Ë AjUA BÄ» ɼ¨UA Ë Bj¯ Ë B°¼m BÄ» ɼ¨UA Áȼ» A ì í æ å ì í æ ä ää å æ ä æ ì í ä ä ì í ä ä ää å æ ä æ ì å Õ ä Ê B¨°r¿ Ë B¨¯Bq BÄ» ɼ¨UA È í ì ä å ì í ê ä ää å æ ä æ allahummaj‘alhu lana salafañwwa faratañwwaj‘alhu lana − − ± − ajrañwwa dhukhurañwwaj‘alhu lana shafi‘añwwa − − mushaffa‘a.O Allah! Make him our forerunner, and make him, for us, a reward and a treasure, and make him for us a pleader and accept his pleading.(Bukhari Kitabul Jana’iz) − − − − In the case of a female child, the following Du‘a’-i-Janazah − − (Funeral Prayer) Takbir is recited after the third.− Ë Ajag Ë AjUA BÄ» Bȼ¨UA Ë Bj¯ Ë B°¼m BÄ» Bȼ¨UA Áȼ» A ì í æ å ì í æ ä ää ä æ ä æ ì í ä ä ì í ä ä ää ä æ ä æ ì å Õ ä Ê Ò¨°r¿ Ë Ò¨¯Bq BÄ» Bȼ¨UA È í ä ì ä å ì í ä ê ä ää ä æ ä æ allahummaj‘alha lana salafañwwa faratañwwaj‘alha lana − − − ± − − ajrañwwa dhukhurañwwaj‘alha lana shafi‘atañwwa − − − mushaffa‘atan.O Allah! Make her our forerunner, and make her, for us, a reward and a treasure, and make her for us a pleader and accept her pleading.143

Page 144

− After the fourth the prayer is ended by saying Takbir Janazah − − Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah.‘ − ± − After this, the body is buried, usually in a graveyard that belongs to the Ahmadiyya Community.Cremation is not permitted in Islam.± − When entering the graveyard, one should recite the following prayer: BÃA Ë !ÅÎÀ¼nÀ»AË ÅÎÄ¿ÌÀ»A Å¿ iBÍf»A ½ÇA BÍ Á¸Î¼§ ÂÝn»A ì ê ä ä æ ê ê æ å æ ä ä æê ê Ù å æ ä ê ê ä é ê ä æä ä æ å æ ä ä å ä ì ä ¾B mA ©JM Á¸» ÅZÃ Ë ¢j¯ BÄ» ÁNÃA ÆÌ´YÝ» Á¸I ɼ»A ÕBrÃA s ( å Ú æ ä Ñ ää æ å ä å æ ä ä Ñ ä ä ää æ å æä ä æ å êä ä æ å ê ê Õ ä ä æê ÒίB¨»A Á¸» Ë BÄ» ɼ»A - ä ä ê ä æ å å ä ä ää ä Õ assalamu ‘alaikum ya ahladdi yari minal mo’minina wal − − − − muslimin wa inna insha ’allahu bikum la lahiqun antum lana − − − − − ± − − faratun wa nahnu lakum taba‘un as’alulla ha lana wa lakumul ± ± − − − ‘afiyata − O Muslims who are buried in the graveyard, peace and blessings of Allah − be upon you.God willing, surely we will be coming here and meeting you.You have preceded us and we will be following you.I beg from God Almighty peace for you and for myself.(Bukhari Kitabul Jana’iz, Narrated by Hadrat ‘A’isha ) ra − − − − ± ± − Funeral prayer ( ) is a collective obligation ( Salatul Janazah Fard ± − − ± Kifayah) on all the Muslims of the locality of the dead person.If a number − of them join in the funeral prayer, the obligation is discharged on behalf of all.But if no one joins in, everyone in the locality will be considered sinful before Allah.− If you are a convert to Islam, your next of kin may be Christian, or − of some other faith.As your body will legally belong to them after your death, you should discuss before hand with them your wishes for funeral 144

Page 145

− service and burial arrangements.It would be advisable to make a Will for all funeral and burial rights, and provide your relatives and the Ahmadiyya ± Community with a copy.Also you should have funds earmarked for these purposes.Your relatives should also be made aware that your estate would be divided according to the Islamic laws of inheritance stated in the Holy − Qur’an.This requires a legally binding Islamic Will.− − (Pathways to Paradise, A Publication of the Lajna Ima’illah, USA, p 65) − − FASTING Fasting is another form of worship found universally in the world religions.Although there are vast differences regarding the mode of fasting and the conditions applied to it, the central idea of fasting is present everywhere.Fasting in Islam is a highly developed institution.There are − two types of injunctions with regards to fasting.One relates to obligatory fasting and the other to optional.Obligatory fasting is further divided into following two categories: 1.There is one full month in every year in which fasting is prescribed for Muslims all over the world.As the month is a lunar month, so it keeps changing around the year in relation to the solar months.Fasting in Islam begins everywhere at the first appearance − of dawn, and ends with sunset.During this period one is expected to abstain from all food and drink, and conjugal relations, completely.Furthermore, a greater part of the night is spent in spiritual exercises such as recitation of the Holy Qur’an and offering of the Prayers, which Tahajjud − make the very essence of fasting.During the month of Fasting, Muslims are required to redouble their efforts in alms-giving and care for the destitute.2.Other obligatory fasting is most often related to seeking forgiveness of God for sins.This includes violation of the 145

Page 146

− obligatory fasts.The voluntary fasting is so well promoted that it becomes a part of the righteous Muslim's way of life.As it is expected that the Prayers offered in fasting are more productive, some people keep extra fasts to ward off their problems, but some do it only for the sake of winning Allah's special favors.− The institution of fasting is extremely important because it cultivates the believer in almost every area of his spiritual life.Among other things, he learns through personal experience about what hunger, poverty, loneliness and discomforts mean to the less fortunate sections of the society.Absentation from even such practices during the month of Ramadan as are permissible in everyday life plays a constructive role in ± − refining the human character.(An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 39-42) − ± ± − ± − ± The Holy Qur’an says: − ÅÍh»A Ó¼§ KN· BÀ· BÎv»A ¸Î¼§ KN· AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ ’ ‘ ä æ ê ì ä ä ä ê å ä ä å ä é ê å å æ ä ä ä ê å æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÆÌ´NM ¸¼¨» ¸¼J³ Å¿ , ‘ ‘ ö ä æ å ìä æ å ì ä ä æ å ê æ ä æ ê ya ayyuhalladhina amanu kutiba ‘alaikumussiyamu kama − − − − ± ± − − kutiba ‘alalladhina min qablikum la‘allakum tattaqun − − O Ye who believe! fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous.(2:184) A person intending to keep fast must make an intention of keeping fast.However, it is not necessary to say any specific words as an intention to keep fast.The Holy Prophet has said: sa É» BÎu ݯ jV°»A ½J³ Ìv»A ©ÀVÍ Á» Å¿ ( ’ ’ ä ä ä ê ä ä ê ä ä æ ä æ ä ä æ ì ê ä æ ä æ ä æ ä 146

Page 147

− man lam yajma'issaumi qablal fajari fala siyama lahu ± ± − ± − − If a person does not make an intention to keep fast before morning and keeps fast then his fast is not a fast.(Tirmidhi Kitabul Saum Babul Asyam, p 91/1) − − ± − ± − T here is no specific supplication mentioned in the for Ahadith ± − − making an intention to keep fast.However, usually a person intending to keep fast supplicates: ÆBz¿i jÈq Å¿ OÍÌà f« ÂÌvI Ë ä ä ä ä ê æ ä æ ê å æ ä ì î ä ê æ ä ê ä wa bi saumi ghadinnawaitu min shahri ramadan ± ± − I intend to fast this day in the month of Ramadan ± − At the termination of the fast one recites: Pjñ¯A ¹³ki ¼§ Ë OÀu ¹» Áȼ»A  å æ ä æä ä ê æ ê Ð ä ä å æ å ä ä ì å Õ ä allahumma laka sumtu wa ‘ala rizkika aftertu − ± − ± Allah for Thy sake I observed the fast and I end it with that − which Thou has provided (Abu Da’ud, Kitabussiyyam Babal Qaul ’indal aftar) − − − − ± ± − − − A person who is observing the fast is required, throughout the month, to abstain from food and drink and from sexual intercourse between the first light of dawn and sunset.The fast is obligatory upon 147

Page 148

− every adult, with certain exemptions.A sick person, one who is traveling, a woman with child or giving a suck to a child, an old person, one who finds the severity of the fast hard to bear on account of age or other infirmity, are exempt.When the reason for exemption is only temporary, as for instance illness from which the sufferer recovers, the number of days of the fast which are missed should be made up at any time during the successive eleven months.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − jaA ÂBÍA Å¿ Ñf¨¯ j°m Ó¼§ ËA BzÍj¿ ¸Ä¿ ÆB· ÅÀ¯ ‘ ä È äå î ì ä æ éê Ñ ì ê ä î ä ä Ð ä æ ä í æ ê ì æ å æ ê ä ä æ ä ä faman kana minkummmaridan au 'ala safarin fa 'idda tummin − − ± − ayyamin ukhar − But whoso among you is sick or is on a journey the same shall fast number of other days.(2:185) Should the cause of the exemption continues over a lengthy period of time or becomes permanent, as in the case of old age or chronic infirmity, the exemption is absolute; but the person concerned, if he can afford it, should pay expiation ( ), i.e., the person should arrange to Fidyah provide food for a poor person throughout the month of or give Ramadan ± − cash.The Holy Qur’an says: − Åθn¿ ÂB¨ ÒÍf¯ ÉÃÌ´ÎñÍ ÅÍh»A Ó¼§ Ë ( î È æ ê æ ê å ä ä Ñ ä æ ê ä æ å æ ê å ä æ ì ä ä ä wa ‘alalladhina yutiqunahu fidyatun ta‘amu miskin − ± − − − ± − − And for those who are able to fast with great difficulty is an only expiation -- the feeding of a poor man.(2:185) 148

Page 149

− Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi said about : as Fidyah ± ± − "Once I thought why Allah has prescribed ? I was given the Fidyah − knowledge that it enables one to fast.Allah alone gives strength and − capacity to do anything and one should beseech only Allah for every need.− He is Omnipotent.If He so Wills He can grant the strength to fast to even a person suffering from tuberculosis.Therefore, it is appropriate that if a person sees that he is being deprived of the fast, then such a person should supplicate that, O Allah! this is your blessed month and I could not benefit − from its blessings and I do not know whether I shall be alive next year or not or I would be able to complete the fasts that I am unable to keep now.If he seeks the power and strength from Allah then I am certain that Allah − − will bestow strength on such a soul." (Malfuzat, Vol.4, p.288) − − Kinds of Fasts The Holy Qur’an and refer to different kinds of fasts which Hadith − ± − can be divided into two classes: 1.Obligatory fasts.2.Voluntary fasts.Obligatory Fasts a) i.Prescribed fasts in the month of Ramadan.± − ii.Omitted fasts of which must be Ramadan ± − undertaken.b) i.Fast for atoning "Zihar".(Zihar: Uttering ± − ± − something which has the effect of a divorce; 149

Page 150

− Saying to wife 'you are like a mother to me').ii.Fast for atoning unintentional murder.iii.Sixty consecutive fasts as penalty for breaking a prescribed fast intentionally.iv.Atonement fast for breaking an oath.v.Fasting to honor a voluntary pledge of fast.vi.Fast associated with and Hajj-i-Tammatt‘a ± Hajj-i-Qiran (See Hajj Section)..± − ± vii.Penalty fasts for hunting in state of.Ihram ± − (See Hajj Section).± viii.Penalty fasts for shaving head in state of Ihram (See Hajj Section)..± − ± Voluntary Fasts i.Six fasts in the month of Shawwal.(These fasts are − kept starting on 2nd Shawwal, i.e.the day after the ‘Idul fitr).− ± ii.Fast on the Day of ‘Ashura.(Fast on 10th of the − − month of Muharram).± Da‘ud i.e., iii.Fast observed by Prophet (David) - − − fasting on alternate days.iv.Fasting on the Day of ( ).‘Arafa on 9th Dhul Hijjah ± v.Fasting on 13 14 and 15 day of every lunar th, th th month of Islamic calendar.− vi.Fasting any other time besides the forbidden times.Prohibited Days Fasting is prohibited on the following days/occasions: i.( ).‘Idul fitr 1st Shawwal − ± − ii.( ).‘Idul adhiyya 10th Dhul Hijjah − ± ± ± iii.Days (11 12 and 13 ).Tashriq th, th th Dhul Hijjah − ± iv.Fasting on every day of the year (365 days consecutively).v.Fasting on " and " " days like "Nerose Mehrgan − 150

Page 151

− Parsis.− (Fiqh Ahmadiyya, ‘Ibadat, p 272, Fasting in Islam, ± − − − The Ahmadiyya Gazette, December, 1998, pp 13-21) ± Travih Prayers − − Travih Prayer is a special congregational Prayer held in the mosque − − daily after Prayer during the month of The Prayer ‘Isha’ Ramadan.Travih − ± − − − comprises eight offered in units of two each.The Prayer is Rak at Rak‘at ‘ − − preferably led by a A is a person who has committed the Hafiz.Hafiz − ± − ± whole of the Holy Qur’an to memory.He recites the Holy Qur’an in − − proper sequence during the Prayers and finishes one course of Travih − − recitation of the Holy Qur’an during the month of If a is Ramadan.Hafiz − ± − − ± not available, any pious Muslim who has memorized several of the Surahs − Holy Qur’an may lead the Prayers.Prayers are not a Travih Travih − − − − − replacement of the Prayers.Tahajjud I‘tikaf or Retreat − During the last ten days of , those who can afford to Ramadan ± − devote all of their time in the remembrance of Allah proceed to the mosque − and remain in the mosque till the moon of the month appears.Shawwal − This worship is called or Retreat.They occupy themselves in the I‘tikaf − mosque with performing voluntary Prayers, studying the Holy Qur’an and − the remembrance of Allah apart from the obligatory Prayers which they − perform with the congregation.Food and other needs are generally provided by the families during their stay in the mosque.Mu‘takifins' − Thus, they may not leave the mosque except for a genuine pious purpose and for the basic physical needs.151

Page 152

− The Holy Prophet has stated about and : sa Lailatul Qadr I tikaf ‘ − ±¸N¨Í ÆA ¸Ä¿ KYA ÅÀ¯ jaAËÜA jr¨»A Ó¯ BÈÃA Ó» ½Î³ ‘ ä ê ä æ ä æ ä æ å æ ê ì ä ä æ ä ä ê ê ä æ ä ê æ ä æ æ ê ä ì ä æ ê ä æ ê - ɨ¿ pBÄ»A ±¸N§B¯ , ±¸N¨¼Î¯ ( ä ä å ì ä ä ä æ ä ä ê ä æ æ ä ä qila li annaha fil ‘ashril awakhiri faman a-habba minkum an − − − − ± ya‘atakifa fal ya‘atakifa, fa‘atakafannasu ma‘ahu − − The Holy Prophet stated that it has been revealed to him by God sa Almighty that is in the last ten days of the month of Lailatul Qadr Ramadan I‘tikaf.The one who intends to perform he should do so in the ± − − last ten days of the month of.Ramadan ± − (Muslim Bab Fadl Lailatul Qadr, p 494/1) − ± Lailatul Qadr Lailatul Qadr (lit."Night of power or destiny") is one of the last ten nights of the month of.For this reason the last ten days of Ramadan ± − Ramadan are taken to be particularly holy.± − In the the Night of Destiny is described as: Surah Al-Qadr, − jÈq ±»A Å¿ jÎa if´»A Ҽλ , Œ È Ô î æ ä ê æä æ éê Ñ æ ä ö ê æ ä å ä æ ä lailatul qadri khairummin alfi shahr The Night of Destiny is better than a thousand months.(97:4) The Holy Prophet has stated about sa Lailatul Qad r: 152

Page 153

− ÓJÄ»A LBZuA Å¿ ¾BUi ÆA BÀÈħ ɼ»A ÏyijÀ§ ÅIA ŧ D é ê ê ì ê ä æ ä æ ê í ä ê ì ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä ä ê æ ê ä ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B´¯ jaAËÜA ©Jn»A Ó¯ ÂBÄÀ»A Ó¯ if´»A Ҽλ ËiA ( ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ê ê ä æ ä ê æ ì ê ê ä ä æ ê ê æ ä å ä æ ä æ å å ÆB· ÅÀ¯ jaAËÜA ©Jn»A Ó¯ PB AÌM f³ Á·BÍËi ÔiA : ( D ä ä æ ä ä ê ê ä æ ä ê æ ì ê æ ä ä ä ä æ ä æ å ä æ å Ð ä _ jaAËÜA ©Jn»A Ó¯ BÇjZNμ¯ BÈÍ jZN¿ ê ê ä æ ä ê æ ì ê ä ì ä ä ä æ ä ä ä é ê ä ä å ‘anibni amara anna rijalan min ashabinnabiyyi uru lailtul ra sa − ± ± − − qadri fil manami fissb il awakhiri faqala rasulullahi ara ‘ sa − − − − − − ru’yakum qad tawata-at fissab'il awakhiri faman kana − ± − − mutaharri baha falyata harra ha fissab il awakhiri ‘ ± − ± − − Hadrat ibni ‘Umar relates that some companions of the Holy Prophet ra sa ± ± were shown during the last seven days of.At Lailatul Qadr Ramadan ± − this, the Holy Prophet said: "I see that your dreams are in agreement sa with the last seven days of Therefore, whosoever wants to look Ramadan.± − for , he should do so in the last seven days of." Lailatul Qadr Ramadan ± − (Bukhari Kitabus Saum Babal tamsu Lailatul Qadr fissa‘b al-awakhir ) ‘ − − − ± ± − − The following tradition of the Holy Prophet states the prayer one sa should beg to God Almighty during Lailatul Qadr: ÆA OÍAiA ɼ»A ¾Ìmi BÍ :O»B³ BÈħ ɼ»A Ïyi ÒrÖB§ ŧ æ ê ä æ ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä ê ä æ ä ¹ÃA ÁÈ»A :ӻ̳ :¾B³ ?BÈί ¾Ì³A B¿ if´»A Ҽλ Ҽλ ÔA OÀ¼§ ä ì ê ì å Õ ä æ ê æ ä ä ä ä æ ê å æ å ä ä ê æ ä æ å æ ä î ä æ ä ì ä å æ ê ä - Óħ ±§B¯ ̰¨»A KZM ̰§ æ é ê ä å æ ä ä æ ä æ í ê å ü å ä ‘an ‘a’ishata qalat: ya rasulallahi ara-aita in ‘alimtu ayya ra sa − − − − lailatin lailatul qadri ma aqulu fiha? qala: qauli: allahumma − − − − − − − innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa‘fu ‘anni ± − 153

Page 154

− Hadrat ‘A’isha relates that I asked the Holy Prophet : 'O Prophet of ra sa ± ± − Allah! If I realize that the night is the (Night of the Lailatul Qadr − Destiny) what should I pray?' The Holy Prophet stated that you should pray the following: - Óħ ±§B¯ ̰¨»A KZM ̰§ ¹ÃA ÁÈ»A æ éê ä å æ ä ä æ ä æ í ê å ï å ä ä ì ê ì å Õ ä 'all humma innaka afuwwun tu hibbul afwa fa fu ann a ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ i' − − O Allah! You are the Great Pardoner, You love those who pardon others.Hence I seek Your pardon.(Tirmidhi Kitabud Da‘wat) − − − HAJJ (PILGRIMAGE) ± To perform a pilgrimage of the , which is also "Khanah Ka‘bah" − called , in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is called."Baitullah" Hajj − ± Like the month of fasting, the time appointed for the pilgrimage, ten weeks after the Festival of the breaking of the fast ) is fixed ( Idul fitr ‘ − ± according to the lunar calendar, and rotates throughout the year.The pilgrimage thus falls in all seasons of the year.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ÝÎJm ÉλA ªBñNmA Å¿ OÎJ»A WY pBÄ»A Ó¼§ ɼ» Ë í È æê ä ê æ ä ê ä ä ä æ ê ä ê æä æ í ê ê ì ä ä ê Õ ê ä wa lillahi ‘alannasi hijjulbaiti manistata‘a ilaihi sabila − − ± ± − − And pilgrimage to the House (House of Allah) is a duty which men -- − those who can find a way thither -- owe to Allah.(3:98) − 154

Page 155

− One finds the institution of pilgrimage in all religions of the world, but the sites for pilgrimage are scattered at different places in one or more countries.One does not find a single central place, which all the followers of a religion must visit at least once in a lifetime.In Islam, Mecca is such a − place, where Muslims from all over the world are expected to gather and spend about ten days entirely dedicated to the memory of God.The pilgrims come from all countries, all nations, all races and all ages.Men, women and children all gather once a year for , running into millions.Hajj ± (An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, p 37) − ± ± − ± − ± The Requirements of Hajj ± 1.is obligatory on a Muslim when the following Hajj ± requirements are met: i.The person is an adult.ii.The person is healthy.iii.Can afford traveling expenses to and the living Hajj ± expenses of the family left behind.iv.There is peace on the way to.Hajj ± v.A safe mode of travel is available.If any one of the above conditions cannot be met then Hajj ± is not obligatory.2.One is required to perform at least once in his lifetime Hajj ± if economic and other conditions are favorable.3.If a person cannot perform due to ill health, but has Hajj ± deep desire to perform the person can ask someone Hajj, ± else to perform on his behalf.This is called Hajj ± Hajj-i-Badl.± 4.can be performed only on the fixed time, while Hajj ‘Umrah ± 155

Page 156

− can be performed at any time during the year.5.There are three months of ( Hajj Shawwal, Dhul-Qa dah, ‘ ± − and Dhul Hijjah Ihram.) during which one has to wear the ± ± − The pilgrims do not wear any sewn garments; rather, they dress in two loose sheets which are called.Women Ihram ± − dress themselves in simple clothes, and are not required to cover their faces.Hajj Baitullah 6.The components of include, circuit of , brisk ± − walk between and Prayer at Safa Marwah, ± − Muqam-i-Ibrahim Rami-ul-jumar , (Stoning of the Satans) − − − − − and stay in the field of on 9.‘Arafat th Dhul Hijjah − ± (Dini Syllabus for the Training of 'Nou Muba‘in', (in Urdu), − − − − − Nazarat Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, pp 36-37) ± − − The institution of pilgrimage can be traced back to the time of Abraham.The Holy Qur’an describes it as an ancient institution, starting as − from times immemorial when the first House of God was built in Mecca, which was pronounced in olden times as It is also called Bakka.Baitul ‘Atiq, or the most ancient house.It is stated in the Holy Qur’an about − − Ka‘bah: ÅÎÀ¼¨¼» ÔfÇ ËB·jJ¿ Ò¸JI Ôh¼» pBļ» ©yË OÎI ¾ËA ÆA , ô ä æ ê ä Ð æéê í å ì í ä Ð å ä ì äê æ ê ìä ê ì ê ä ê í î æä ä ì ä ì ê BÄ¿A ÆB· ɼae Å¿ Ë Ê ÎÇjIA B´¿ OÄÎI OÍA Éί ( ‘ ’ Èí ê Ð ä ä ä ä ä æ ä ä ô ä æ ê Ð æê å ä ì Ñ Ð é êä Ñ ë Ð Ð ê æ ê inna awwala baitiñwwudi‘a linnasi lalladhi bi bakkata ± − − mubarakañwwa hudallil ‘alamin fihi ayatum − − − − − − bayyinatummaqamu ibrahima wa man dakhalahu kana amina − − − − − − − S urely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca (The valley of Mecca), abounding in blessings and a guidance for all people.In it are manifest Signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters 156

Page 157

− peace.(3:97-98) Abraham raised it from the ruins, which he discovered under as Divine guidance, and about which he was commissioned by God to rebuild with the help of his son Ishmael.It is the same place where he had left his wife Hagar and infant son Ishmael, again under Divine instructions.But work on the House of God awaited attention until Ishmael grew to an age where he could be of some help.So, both of them worked together to rebuild the house and to restart the institution of pilgrimage.In the Holy Qur’an God Almighty says about Ka‘bah: − ÇjIA B´¿ Å¿ AËhbMAË BÄ¿AË pBļ» ÒIBR¿ OÎJ»A Bļ¨U gA Ë ‘ ’ ä × Ð æê ê ä ì æ ê æ å ê ì ä Èí æ ä ä ê ì ê é í ä ä ä ä æä æ ä æ ä ä æê ä Åΰ Bñ¼» ÓNÎI AjÈ ÆA ½Î¨ÀmA Ë ÇjIA Ó»A FÃfÈ§Ë Ó¼v¿ r ‘ ä æ ê Ó ê Ø ì ê ä ê æä ä éê ä æ ä ä æ ê Ð æê ä ä × Ð æê Ð ê ä æ ê ä ä È î ä å eÌVn»A ©·j»AË Åΰ¸¨»AË , ê æ å í ê ì í ä ä æ ê ê Ð æ ä wa idh ja‘alnalbaita mathabatallinnasi wa amna wattakhidhu − − − mimmaqami ibrahima musalla wa ‘ahidna ila ibrahima wa − − − ± − − − − isma‘ila an tahhira baitiya litta’ifina wal ‘akifina warrukka − − ± − − − − − ‘issujud − − And when We made the House a resort for mankind remember the time and of security; and take ye the station of Abraham as a place of a place Prayer.And We commanded Abraham and Ishmael, 'Purify My saying, House for those who perform the circuit and those who remain for therein devotion and those who bow down and fall prostrate (2:126) in Prayer.' Obligations of Hajj ± Many rites performed during pilgrimage are rooted in the early days of the reconstruction of the House of God, and some even go beyond that.For instance, the running between and , two small Safa Marwah ± − hillocks close to the House of God, is done in memory of Hagar's search 157

Page 158

− for some signs of human presence to help her and her child in their dire hour of need.The child is described as having become extremely restive with the agony of thirst, striking the earth with his heels in desperation.There, it is said, sprouted a fountain in the shape of a well called Zam Zam, which has dried up.The water in the well is considered to be a blessed water.Most of the pilgrims who perform the try to bring some Hajj ± water from there by way of blessings for their relatives and friends.(An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, p 38) − ± ± − ± − ± The well, has dried up.At present, water is poured in the Zam Zam, well and distributed to those who go to Mecca for or as Hajj ‘Umrah Zam ± Zam water or blessed water.The various rites of are as follows: Hajj ± i.Putting on : The pilgrims do not wear any Ihram ± − sewn garments; rather, they dress in two loose sheets which are called.Women dress Ihram ± − themselves in simple clothes, and are not required to cover their faces.ii.Going around seven times.Khanah Ka‘bah − iii.A fast walk between and near Safa Marwah Khanah ± − − Ka‘bah.iv.Visiting and staying at and Mina, ‘Arafat − − Muzdalifah.v.Throwing pebbles at three fixed places in.Mina − vi.Shaving or trimming hair: The shaving of the head is an important feature which is also universally found as a symbol of dedication among monks, priests, and Vishnu.Women are exempt from shaving, but they have to symbolically cut a little of their hair as a token.vii.At the end of the pilgrimage, every pilgrim who can afford it, sacrifices an animal (sheep, goat, cow or camel) or joins in making a sacrifice.158

Page 159

− Ihram ± − Ihram Hajj is a dress which is worn by the pilgrims performing or ± − ± ‘Umrah Hajj.A person who intends to perform is required to discard his ± usual garments and put on the when he/she arrives at one of the Ihram ± − prescribed places, some distance away from the city of Mecca.The Ihram ± − consists of two white unsewn sheets of cloth.One sheet is wrapped around the waist covering the lower abdomen, while the second sheet is slung over the left shoulder so that the right shoulder and the head remain bare.Women dress themselves in simple clothes, and are not required to cover their faces.Hajj Service ± Hajj th th Dhul is performed during the period from the 8 to 13 ± Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, each year.When the ± − season of Pilgrimage arrives, Muslims from all over the world converge to which is located in the courtyard of the great mosque at Mecca Ka‘bah in Arabia, clad in.The effaces all marks and distinction of Ihram Ihram ± − ± − wealth, rank, office, family, nation or place.Everyone is on the same level.During the pilgrimage, brotherhood and equality of Muslims become particularly evident.There is no privilege.All have to go through the same rituals.Clad in all pilgrims offer two of voluntary Prayer Ihram, Rak‘at ± − − and constantly occupy themselves with the remembrance of Allah.The − simple garb signifies that the pilgrim has responded to the call of Allah, as − he will answer the last call when his time to depart this life arrives.All vanity is purged, and king and subject, master and servant, white and black, yellow and brown, hasten from all directions to the sacred house repeating the : Talbiyyah ¹ÎJ» ¹» ¹Íjq Ü ¹ÎJ» ¹ÎJ» Áȼ»A ¹ÎJ» È ä æì ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æì ä È ä æì ä ì å Õ ä ä æì ä labbaik allahumma labbaik labbaika la sharika laka labbaik − − − 159

Page 160

− Here I am O Allah; here I am.Here I am, there is no associate with Thee, − here I am ¹» ¹Íjq Ü ¹» ¹¼À»AË ¹» ÒÀ¨Ä»AË fÀZ»A ÆA ( ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä ä ä æ å æ ä ä ä ä æ é ê ä ä æ ä æ ì ê innal hamda wanni‘mata laka walmulka laka la sharika laka ± − − Indeed, all Praise and Bounty are Yours, and Thine is the Kingdom.There is no associate with Thee.( Bukhari Kitabul Libas) − − − − After putting on one should frequently repeat the Ihram Talbiyyah ± − along with other prayers and also should invoke blessings on the Holy Prophet.When one reaches near Mecca and becomes visible, at sa Baitullah − that time, while reciting the and one should pray Talbiyyah Takbir − fervently and with humility for his pious objectives, as this is a special time for acceptance of prayers by God Almighty.(Nilul autar Bab Raf'a Yadain,p 36-37) − − − When one arrives at the , he/she should perform seven Ka‘bah circuits ( ) walking briskly around the anti-clockwise, Tawaf Ka bah ‘ ± − starting from the Black Stone ( ), a stone embedded in one Hajri Aswad ± corner of the building.After the circuits, two of voluntary Prayer Rak‘at − should be offered as close as possible to the place of Abraham as (Muqam-i-Ibrahim).Then there is the swift walk seven times between the − − − heights called and Safa Marwah.± − God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ¼v¿ ÇjIA B´¿ Å¿ AËhbMAË  ‘ ’ È é í ä å ä × Ð æê ê ä ì æ ê æ å ê ì ä wattakhidhu mimmaqami ibrahima musalla − − − − ± And take ye the station of Abraham as a place of Prayer.(2:126) 160

Page 161

− On the eighth of the month of ( ), the pilgrims leave Hajj Dhul Hijjah ± ± Mecca for , a small town nearby, and spend one day and night there, Mina − offering all five daily Prayers.Next day after Prayer they proceed to Fajr the plain of where they encamp.They arrive there after mid-day, ‘Arafat − offer and Prayers together and occupy themselves with the Zuhr ‘Asr ± ± remembrance of Allah till sunset.− From they proceed to where the and ‘Arafat Muzdalifah Maghrib − ‘Isha’ Prayers are combined and the night is spent in praising God − Almighty and in meditation.The next morning, after Prayer and praying at Fajr Mash‘aral-Haram Mina Mina Jamratul ‘Aqba , they travel back to.At , , one ± − − − of the pillars representing Satan, is pelted seven times, each time with Allahu akbar said aloud.These pillars are erected on the site where − Abraham was tempted by Satan against offering Ishmael as a Sacrifice in as fulfillment of his dream.Thereafter an animal is sacrificed.It is desirable to have a haircut or shaving of the head after the sacrifice, and to proceed to Mecca to perform the circuits of the again, and then return to Ka‘bah Mina Jamratul , where seven pebbles are thrown at each of the three pillars ( − ‘ula, Jamratul Wasta, and Jamratul ‘Aqba), one by one, starting with − ± Jamratul Aqba th th th ‘.The same may be repeated on the 11 , 12 and 13 Dhul Hijjah.After throwing the pebbles, if one intends to offer sacrifice of ± an animal, he should go to the slaughter house and slaughter the animal (sheep, goat, cow or camel).If one does not intend to sacrifice an animal, he can take off the after either cutting hair from the head or shaving Ihram ± − the head.Women can remove after cutting few hair from their head Ihram ± − with a scissor.It is not lawful for a women to fully cut hair or shave the head.On the 13 , the pilgrims leave for Mecca to perform the th Mina − farewell circuits, and thus completes the ceremony of Hajj.± 161

Page 162

− ‘Umrah While particular days are prescribed for the performance of the Hajj ‘Umrah , the , sometimes called the lesser pilgrimage, may be ± performed at any time of the year.Thus, is a short pilgrimage, ‘Umrah which essentially comprises of performing seven circuits of and Ka‘bah seven rounds of the sacred hills and , while being in the state Safa Marwah ± of Some prescribed prayers are recited during.Ihram.‘Umrah ± − Regarding and God Almighty says in the Holy Safa Marwah ± − Qur’an: − ݯ jÀN§AËA OÎJ»A WY ÅÀ¯ ɼ»Aj F¨q Å¿ ÑËjÀ»AË B°v»A ÆA r ä ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä æä æ ì ä æ ä ä ô ê Õ ê Ó ê ä ä æ ê ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ì ì ê BÀÈI ²ÌñÍ ÆA Éμ§ `BÄU È ä ê ê ä ì ì ì æ ä ê æ ä ä ä ä å innassafa wal marwata min sha‘a’irillahi faman hajjal baita ± ± − − − ± awi‘tamara fala junaha ‘alaihi añyyattawwafa bihima − − ± ±± Surely Al-Safa and Al-Marwah are among the Signs of Allah.It is, ± − − therefore, no sin for him who is on Pilgrimage to the House, or performs 'Umrah, to go round the two.(2:159) Types of Hajj ± Hajj is of three kinds: ± i.Hajj-i-Mufrid ± ii.Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a ± iii.Hajj-i-Qiran ± − 162

Page 163

− Hajj-i-Mufrid ± The procedure to perform is the same as Hajj-i-Mufrid ± described above.Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a ± Regarding God almighty says in the Holy Qur’an Hajj-i-Tamattu'a : ± − » ÅÀ¯ ÐfÈ»A Å¿ jnÎNmA BÀ¯ WZ»A Ó»A ÑjÀ¨»BI ©NÀM ÅÀ¯ ‘ æ ì æ ä ä ê ô æ ä æ ä ê ä ä æä æ ä ä é ê ä æ ä ê ê ä æ å æ ê ä ì ä ä æ ä ä Ñjr§ ¹¼M N¨Ui AgA Ò¨JmË WZ»A Ó¯ ÂBÍA ÒR¼Q BÎv¯ fVÍ ‘ ’ Ñ ä ä ä ä æê æ È å æ ä ä ä ê î ä æ ä ä êé ä æ ê î ì ä ê ä Ð ä å ä ê ä æ ê ä AjZ»A fVnÀ»A ÔjyBY ɼÇA Å¸Í » ÅÀ» ¹»g Ò¼¿B· ’ ( ‘ ê È ä ä æ ê ê æ ä æ ê ê ä å æä æ å ä æ ì æ ä ê ä ê Ð È Ñ ä ê ä faman tamatta‘a bil ‘umrati ilal hajji famastaisara minalhadyi ± famallam yajid fasiyamu thalathati ayyamin fil hajji wa ± − − − ± sab‘atin idha raja‘tum tilka ‘asharatun kamilah dhalika li − − − mallam yakun ahluhu hadiril masjidil haram − ± − ± ± − He, who would avail himself of the 'Umrah together with the Hajj, should ± make of you whatever offering is easily obtainable.But such as cannot find should fast three days during the Pilgrimage, and seven an offering when you return home; these are ten complete.This is for him whose family does not reside near the Sacred Mosque.(2:197) In , one first puts on during the months of Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a Ihram ± ± − Hajj ‘Umrah and after reaching Mecca performs.After this he relinquishes ± Ihram th Dhul Hijjah and either on 8 of or before re-enters the state of ± − ± Ihram Hajj Hajj for.Then he performs the rites of as described above.± − ± ± 163

Page 164

− Thus, offering of first and then with new is called ‘Umrah Hajj Ihram ± ± − Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a.Tamattu‘a Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a means to get benefits.In , a ± ± pilgrim gets the benefit of performing both and during his ‘Umrah Hajj ± travel for pilgrimage.For a person performing , it is not Hajj-i-Mufrid ± necessary to sacrifice an animal on 10 of However, a person th Dhul Hijjah.± performing must sacrifice an animal.If someone cannot Hajj-i-Tamattu‘a ± sacrifice an animal then he must keep ten fasts.Three fasts needs to be kept during the (i.e.on 7 , 8 and 9 ) and the rest of Hajj th th th Dhul Hijjah ± ± the seven fasts have to be kept after reaching home.Hajj-i-Qiran ± − In , one puts on right at the beginning for the Hajj-i-Qiran Ihram ± − ± − intention of performing both and and says the following ‘Umrah Hajj ± Talbiyyah: Ó» ºiBI Q Ó»BÀÇ jnί ÑjÀ¨»A Ë WZ»A fÍiA ÓÃA ȼ»A ‘ ‘ æ ê æ ê ì å æ ê ä å æ é ê ä ä ä ä æ å æ ä ì ä æ å æ ê å æ é ê ê ì å Õ ä BÀÈί ä ê æ ê allahumma inni uridul hajja wal ‘umrata fa yassir humali − − − ± − − thumma barikli fihima − − − − O Lord, I intend to perform Hajj and Umrah.Make both these events for ‘ ± me easy and blessed.(Hidaya p 221/1, Babul Qur’an) − − − A person who performs must offer sacrifice like in Hajj-i-Qiran ± − Hajj-i-Tamattu'a.If he is unable to offer a sacrifice then he has to keep ten ± fasts as stated above.164

Page 165

− Indiscretions During Hajj and the Reparations ± It is forbidden for a pilgrim to cut hair or pare nails, to cover his head or to put on socks, to use perfume, to hunt an animal or to slaughter it, to engage in flippant loose talk, to squabble or quarrel and to behave in an undignified manner.1.If someone while in due to some reason wears sewn Ihram ± − clothes or shaves his head due to lice in the head, then one has to pay (expiation) as a reparation for these Fidyah indiscretions.However, if someone does not have unsewn clothes he can wear sewn clothes but he has to pay Fidyah in this situation also.(Hidaya Kitabul Hajj, p 199/1) − − ± 2.If someone, while in does hunting of an animal then Ihram, ± − as its atonement he has to sacrifice an animal equivalent to the animal he has hunted, e.g., if one has hunted a deer he should sacrifice a goat or a sheep in the slaughter house at Mina.If he has hunted an ostrich he should sacrifice a − camel.If one cannot afford to sacrifice an animal then he must provide food to six poor people.If one cannot do even this then he must keep three fasts.(Fiqh Ahmadiyya, Ibadat, p 337) ± − − ZAKAT − Zakat is a kind of worship prescribed in order to bring about − equitable economic adjustment in society.The Arabic word literally Zakat − means to purify something.In this context a mandatory payment of a fixed portion of the wealth would mean that the residual wealth after the deduction of has been rendered pure and lawful for the believers.Zakat − 165

Page 166

− The Holy Qur’an commands: − ¸¼¨» ¾Ìmj»A ĄÎA Ë ÑÌ· l»A AÌMA Ë Ñ̼v»A AÌÀγA Ë ‘ æ å ì ä ä ä æ å ì å æ êä ä ä Ð ì å Ð ä ä Ð ì å æ ê ä ä ÆÌÀYjM , ä æ å ä æ å wa aqimussalata wa atuzzakata wa ati ‘urrasula la‘allakum − ± ± − − − ± − − turhamun ± − And observe Prayer and give the Zakat and obey the Messenger, that you − may be shown mercy (24:57) The Holy Qur’an further says about : Zakat − − Ç ¹ »ËB¯ ɼ»A ÉUË ÆËfÍjM ÑÌ·k Å¿ NÎMA F¿Ë ‘ s ‘ å å ä Ó ê Ð Ø å ä ê Õ ä æ ä ä æ å æ ê å î Ð ä æ éê æ å æä Ð ä ä ÆÌ°¨zÀ»A , ä æ å ê æ å æ wa ma ataitummin zakatin turiduna wajhallahi fa ula’ika − − − − − − − humul mud‘ifun ± − And whatever you give in Zakat seeking the favor of Allah -- it is these − − who will increase manifold (30:40) their wealth Apart from meeting the demands of the State, this collection is intended to meet the needs of the poor.It is collected from Muslims possessing a certain amount of money or property, and is spent on the poor, the needy, the orphans, widows and wayfarers, etc.It is normally levied at 2.5% on disposable assets above specific thresholds which have remained in the hands of owners beyond one year.One of the many benefits of is that due to the fear that any idle capital would be Zakat − gradually eroded away through the imposition of , anyone with Zakat − surplus savings would have to employ it in earning profit to off-set the effect of.Zakat − The Holy Qur’an says that in the wealth of those who possess over − 166

Page 167

− and beyond their basic needs, is also the share of those who are unable to meet their basic needs and are considered deprived in their environment ( ; ).This clearly establishes that it is the right Holy Qur’an, 51:20 70:25-26 − of every person to have certain basic necessities of life provided to him in every land and society, and those made responsible for meeting this obligation are the ones who possess more than their basic needs, leaving it to the State to decide upon the , to ensure that the system is modus operandi fair, just and equitable and adequately fulfills its basic purpose.is different from.Payment of does Zakat Jama'at Chanda Chanda − − not relieve a person from the obligation of paying on disposable Zakat − assets above specific thresholds which have remained in his hands beyond one year.A tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding is as follows: sa Zakat − ¸»AÌ¿A AÌÄvY : ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ ¾B³ ÅnZ»A ŧ ‘ D æ å ä ä æ ä æ å éê ä ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ä ê ä ä æ ê ä ÕÝJ»A XAÌ¿A A̼J´NmAË Ò³fv» BI ·Byj¿ AËËAe Ë ÑÌ·l»BI ‘ êä ä æ ä ä æ ä æ å ä æ ä æ ä ê ä ä ì ê æ å ä æ ä æ å ä ä ê Ð ì ê - ªjzN»A Ë ÕB§f»BI ê í ä ì ä ê ä í ê 'anil hasani qala qala rasulullahi : hassinu amwalakum ra sa ± − − − − ± ± ± − − bizzakati wa dawu mardakum bissadaqati wastaqbalu − − − ± − ± ± − − amwajal bala’i biddu‘a’i wattadarru'i − − − ± Hasan relates that the Holy Prophet said: "Fortify your property by ra sa ± paying , cure sick by giving charity and defend yourself against the Zakat − undulations of calamities through invocations and humble entreaties.(Muras l Abu Da’ud) i − − − − − 167

Page 168

− 5 ISLAMIC LAW − The Holy Prophet left two legacies for mankind: sa The Holy Qur’an from whose teachings the religion of Islam was − − established; and his life, which stands as a perfect model for all who seek nearness to their Creator.Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: − − ÒÄnY ÑÌmA ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Ó¯ ¸» ÆB· f´» ‘ Ñ ä ä ä Ñ ä æ å ê Õ ê æ å ä æ ê æ å ä ä ä æ ä ä laqad kana lakum fi rasulillahi uswatun hasana − − − − ± Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model.(33:22) − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi states: as ± ± − "In order for a Muslim to be established on Islamic guidance, he − has three elements in his possession: 1.The Holy Qur’an which is the book of Allah.No other − − word is more definite and absolutely certain than the Word of God.It is clear from impurities of doubts and suspicions.2.Secondly, Meaning of It is the Sunnah...Sunnah...physical actions of the Holy Prophet that carry in sa themselves a continuity.It appeared alongside the Holy 168

Page 169

− Qur’an from the very beginning and shall always remain − with it.We can say that the Holy Qur’an is the Word of − Almighty God and the action of the Holy Prophet.Sunnah sa It has been the tradition of Allah that when Prophets of God − bring His Word for the guidance of the people, through their action, they truly explain that message.So that there is no doubt left in the understanding of the message.They act upon that Word themselves while making others to do the same...For example, when Prayer was made mandatory, the Holy Prophet through his actions showed physically as to sa how many should be offered at Prayer, Rak‘at Fajr Maghrib − Prayer and the other Prayers.Similarly, by performing Hajj ± and then having thousands of his companions to become habitual of this action, the Holy Prophet fully established sa his mode of action.So, the physical example that still continues and is felt among the followers, is what is called the.Sunnah 3.The third source of guidance is.By is meant Hadith Hadith ± − ± − those of the traditions of the Holy Prophet that have, in the sa shape of narrations, been collected about one hundred and fifty years after the Holy Prophet by various narrators...sa When....the age of the Companions passed, then God ra diverted the attention of some of the followers of the companions towards the collection of.That is Ahadith ± − − when were collected.There is no doubt in the fact Ahadith ± − − that majority of those who collected the were Ahadith ± − − highly God fearing and pious.As much as was in their power, they scrutinized the and tried to stay away Ahadith ± − − from the ones that in their opinion were fabricated ones.169

Page 170

− They did not accept any doubtful narrator's.They Hadith ± − worked very hard, yet since all this activity was after the fact, there can be conjectures about their authenticity.However, it would be dire injustice to say that all Ahadith ± − − are vain, useless and false.There was so much care taken in the writings of these and so much research and Ahadith ± − − criticism went into this work that there is no parallel found in any other religion.It is also wrong to say that until the were Ahadith ± − − collected, people were unaware of the of Prayers or Rak‘at − did not know how to perform the.The continuity of Hajj ± action that had been established through the , had Sunnah taught them all the laws and duties of Islam.Therefore, it is − absolutely true that even if these did not exist at all Ahadith ± − − in the world, that were collected ages afterwards, the real teachings of Islam would not have suffered at all.The Holy − Qur’an and the continuity of action had already fulfilled − these needs.The , however, augmented that light.Ahadith ± − − Islam thus became light upon light and these stood Ahadith − ± − − by the Qur’an and as witness." Sunnah − (Review of Mubahisa-i-Batalvi and Chakralvi, pp 3-5) − − − − − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi further states: as ± ± − "Of the many sects that subsequently appeared in Islam, the true − one derived great benefit from the true.The correct way, therefore, Ahadith ± − − is neither to treat the as having greater authority than the Qur’an, Ahadith ± − − − as do the sect of this age, and not to prefer statements in the Ahli Hadith ± − Hadith which are contradictory of the Holy Qur’an to the Qur’an itself, nor ± − − − to regard the as vain and false as is the belief of Maulvi ‘Abdullah Ahadith ± − − − − Chakralvi.The Qur’an and the should judge the and those Sunnah Ahadith − − − ± − − that are not opposed to them should by all means be accepted.This is the straight path and blessed are those who follow it.Most unfortunate and 170

Page 171

− foolish is the person who rejects the altogether without regard to Ahadith ± − − the test that we have proposed.It should be the duty of the members of our community that a Hadith Sunnah which is not opposed to the Holy Qur’an and the , should ± − − be accepted and followed, however weak might be its authority, and it should be preferred to the rules framed by the jurists." (Review of Mubahisa-i-Batalvi and Chakralvi, p 5,6) − − − − − Thus, there are three sources of Islamic Law: the Holy Qur’an, the − − Sunnah Hadith and the : ± − 1.THE HOLY QUR’AN − The Holy Qur’an is the Holy Word of Allah conveyed to the Holy − − Prophet Muhammad by Divine revelation, over the period of 22 years, 5 sa ± months and 14 days (610-632 AD).It contains a complete code of teaching and laws suitable to the needs of every age and provides the means for the spiritual and moral development of all mankind.The Holy Qur’an also − contains numerous prophecies for the future.The Holy Qur’an calls itself a reminder to the Worlds: − ÅÎÀ¼¨¼» j·g ÜA ÌÇ ÆA , ö ä æ ê ä Ð æéê Ñ æ ê ì ê ä å æ ê in huwa illa dhikrullil ‘alamin − − − It is nothing but a Reminder unto all the worlds.(81:28) 171

Page 172

− The Divine revelations were committed to memory and also written down by scribes appointed by the Holy Prophet.He himself sa indicated the arrangement of verses and chapters in the Holy Qur’an as we − find them today.However, the compilation of the whole, in one volume was undertaken after the demise of the Holy Prophet.During the sa Caliphate of Hadrat ‘Uthman , seven copies of the Qur’an were dispatched ra ± ± − − to different parts of the Muslim world and they in turn became the standard texts from which other copies were made and thereafter in each generation hundreds of thousands of people have been in the habit of committing the entire text of the Qur’an to memory.Even the bitterest − enemies of Islam do not allege that any interference with the text of the − Qur’an has taken place since the time of the Holy Prophet.sa − Regarding safeguarding the Qur’an, God Almighty says in the − Holy Qur’an: − ÆÌ¤°Z» É» BÃA Ë j·h»A BÄ»là ÅZà BÃA , ( ä æ å ê Ð ä ä ì ê ä ä æ é ê ä æ ì ä å æ ä ì ê inna nahnu nazzal nadhdhikra wa inna lahu la hafizun − ± − − ± − ± − Verily, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and most surely We will be its Guardian.(15:10) Whenever any portion of the Qur’an was revealed to the Holy − Prophet , he used to commit it to memory and, as he continuously recited sa the Qur’an from one end to the other, he always carried the whole of the − revealed Qur’an at all times in his memory.− The text of none of the sacred Scriptures, claimed to be revealed before the Holy Qur’an has been preserved intact.They have all been − interfered with to such an extent that an earnest seeker after truth finds it impossible to adopt any of them as a practical guide for right conduct.In contrast with this, the text of the Holy Qur’an has been preserved intact − and every word of it has come down to us as free from interference and interpolation as when it was revealed to the Holy Prophet around 1400 sa years ago.The Holy Qur’an is organized into parts ( ), chapters and Siparahs − − 172

Page 173

− verses.There are 114 chapters.Out of these 86 were revealed at Mecca and 28 were revealed at Medina; it has a total of 6,350 verses.A chapter is called a " "; each one having a specific name and a varying number of Surah − verses.This division is based upon their subject matter and the names of the were revealed by God Almighty to Holy Prophet.Each Surahs Surah sa − − is further divided into or verses.However, the division of the Holy Ayat − − Qur’an into thirty ( or parts is for the convenience of those Juz Siparahs) − − who wish to complete the recitation in one month.Quotations from the Holy Qur’an are generally given as the chapter number followed by the − verse number.For example, the reference (29:49) means the 49 verse of th the 29 chapter.th Some Facts about the Holy Qur’an − - Every word of the Holy Qur’an is a Word of God revealed − to Holy Prophet of Islam.sa − - The Holy Qur’an was completed and compiled according to − Divine revelation under the direction of the Holy Prophet sa during his life time.- Each and every word of the Holy Qur’an was recorded as − soon as it was revealed by Allah to the Holy Prophet.sa − - Many of the early Muslims memorized the Holy Qur’an − immediately after the verses were revealed.- The first Qur’anic revelation was: − μ¼§ Å¿ ÆBnÃÜA μ¼a μ¼a Ôh»A ¹Ii mBI Aj³A , , ‘ ô î ä ä æ ê ä ä ææê ä ä ä ô ä ä ä æ ê ì ä éê ä ê æ ê æ ä æê ¼§ ¼´»BI ¼§ Ôh»A j·ÜA ¹Ii Ë Aj³A ‘ ,‘ ‘ , ’ ä ì ä ö ê ä ä æ ê ä ì ä æ ê ì ö å ä æ æ ä ä í ä ä æ ä æê ¼¨Í »B¿ ÆBnà A ,‘ ‘ j È æ ä æ ä æ ä ä ä ä æê 173

Page 174

− iqra’ bismi rabbikalladhi khalaq khalaqal insana − − min‘alaq iqra’ wa rabbukal akramulladhi ‘allama bil − qalam ‘allamal insana ma lam ya‘lam − − Recite in the name of your Lord Who created, Created man from an adhesive clot.Recite! And your Lord is the Noblest.Who taught by the pen.Taught man what he knew not.(96:2-6) (Bukhari Kitab Kaifa Kana Bad ‘alwahi ila rasulullahi ) sa − − − − − − − − - Last Qur’anic revelation was: − Ë ÓNÀ¨Ã Á¸Î¼§ OÀÀMA Ë ¸ÄÍe ¸» O¼À·A ÂÌλA ‘ ‘ ä æ ê ä æ ê æ å æ ä ä å æ ä æä ä æ å ä æ ê æ å ä å æ ä æ ä ä æ ä æä BÄÍe Ým A ¸» OÎyi ’ j ‘ È í æ ê ä ä æ ê å å ä å æ ê ä al yauma akmaltu lakum dinakum wa atmamtu − ‘alaikum ni‘mati wa raditu lakumul islama dina − ± − − − This day have I perfected your religion for you and completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as religion.− (5:4).- The longest (Chapter) of the Qur’an is Surah Surah − − − Al-Baqarah Surah Surah with 286 verses and the shortest is − − Al-Kauthar which has three verses.- The last revealed was Surah Surah Al-Nasr.− − ± - The number of places in the Holy Qur’an where it is − necessary to perform (Prostration of Sajdah Tilawat − recitation) is 15.The person reciting and the person listening to the portion of the Holy Qur’an where Sajdah − Tilawat Sajdah Tilawat is indicated should perform in the − − following way: i.After reciting or listening to the verse of the Holy Qur’an where is indicated, one Sajdah Tilawat − − 174

Page 175

− should say and go into prostration Allahu akbar − without raising hands, while prostrating recite three times: Ó¼§ Ü A ÏI i Æ BZJm Ð æ æ ä ä ê é ä ä ä æ å subhana rabbi yal a‘la ± − − Holy is my Lord, the Most High and then recite the following prayer: ÓÃBÄU Ë ÓYËi ¹» fVm æ ê ä ä ä æ ê æ å ä ä ä ä ä sajada laka ruhi wa janani − ± − − − O Allah, my spirit and my heart prostrate before you − (Fiqh Ahmadiyya, Ibadat, p 217) ± − − ii.After this one should raise one's head saying Allahu − akbar Assalamu ‘alaikum.There is no need to say: − wa rahmatullah.± − iii.During the Prayer ( ) if any verse with Salat Sajdah ± − Tilawat is read, one should prostrate immediately, − recite the prayers as stated above, and continue the Salat in regular way.± − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi says about the Holy Qur’an: as − − 175

Page 176

− "The Holy Qur’an is a miracle, the like of which never was and never will − be.The age of its blessings and bounties is everlasting.It remains as manifest and radiant in any other period as it was in the period of the Holy Prophet." sa (Malfuzat, Vol.3, p 57) − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes about the Holy as − Qur’an: − "Of all the revealed books which we find today, it is the Holy Qur’an, whose claims to having been revealed from God, is established on − the strength of irrefutable arguments.The principle it has enunciated regarding salvation corresponds exactly with the dictates of truth and human nature.The doctrines it propounds, are so perfect and well founded that they are entirely supported by powerful and irrefutable evidence, its injunctions are based on nothing but the truth.Its teachings are completely free from adulteration or idolatry, innovation and creature worship.It is a book in which there is exceeding eagerness to manifest the Oneness and Greatness of God.It is a Book which has this outstanding quality that it is filled entirely and purely with the teachings of the Unity of God and does not permit any manner of blemish or defect, or shortcoming, or any other aspersion to be cast against the Holy Creator.It does not desire to impose any doctrine perforce.On the contrary, it precedes everything that it expounds with such arguments and logic as it establishes its truth.It proves its objectives and purport with weighty arguments and strong evidence.Having presented clear arguments to explain every principle it enunciates, it leads man to firm belief and absolute understanding of realities.It removes with the help of lucid enunciation, all the defects, impurities and irregularities which infest human beliefs, practices, words and deeds.It also teaches all etiquette which are essential to cultivate human values in man.It meets the challenge of every corruption with no less a force than that displayed by the corruption itself prevalent in the world today.Its teachings are straight, powerful and well balanced as if they were a reflective mirror of nature itself and a true copy of the law of nature.It is like an enlightening sun for the inner eye and perceptive faculty of the heart." (Ruhani Khaza in, Vol.1: Barahin-i-Ahmadiyya, pp 81-82) ’ − ± − − − − − ± 176

Page 177

− 2.PRACTICE OF THE HOLY PROPHET sa (SUNNAH) Sunnah is the transformation of the laws and teachings of the Holy Qur’an into action by the Holy Prophet Muhammad.By demonstrating sa − ± the Word of God in practical way, he simplified the problems of day to day living.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an about the Holy Prophet : sa − ÒÄnY ÑÌmA ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Ó¯ ¸» ÆB· f´» ‘ Ñ ä ä ä Ñ ä æ å ê Õ ê æ å ä æ ê æ å ä ä ä æ ä ä laqad kana lakum fi rasulillahi uswatun hasana − − − − ± Verily you have in the Prophet of Allah an excellent model.(33:22) − The teachings of the Qur’an are perfectly reflected in the person of − Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa.Both teaching and the example of the sa ± ± ± ± ± Prophet are in perfect harmony with each other.Thus, when Hadrat sa ± ± ‘A’ishah , the wife of the Holy Prophet , was requested to speak on his ra sa − character, the brief answer which was so comprehensive, was simply this: ÆAj´»A É´¼a ÆB· ä Ø æ å æ å å å å ä ä kana khuluquhul qur'an − − (Muslim, Kitabul Salat Bab Jami’ Salatul Lail) − ± − − ± − Which means that he was the Qur’an personified.The teachings of − Islam concur in each and every aspect with the nature of the Holy − Prophet.Islamic teachings are perfectly well balanced and based on the sa − principles of justice, as was the nature of the Holy Prophet.sa 177

Page 178

− (Absolute Justice, Kindness and Kinship, pp 127-128) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes in his famous book, as − 'Kashti-i-Nuh' : − − ± 'The second instrument for guidance vouchsafed to the Muslims is the , i.e., the measures adopted by the Holy Prophet with a view to Sunnah sa the exposition of the Holy Qur’an and its being put into actual tangible − practice.For instance, looking at the surface only, there appears to be no specification in the Qur’an of in the case of the five daily Rak‘ats − − obligatory Prayers, how many for what Prayer, but the of the Holy Sunnah Prophet has made all these things very clear.No one should fall into error sa that the and are one and the same thing, for what is called Hadith Sunnah ± − the came to be collected a hundred and fifty years afterwards, while Hadith ± − the existed from the very outset side by side with the Holy Sunnah Qur’an.After the Holy Qur’an, the greatest debt of gratitude the Muslims − − owe to anything is to the.' Sunnah (Our Teaching, Islam International Publications, London, UK, p 27) − The responsibilities towards Allah and the Holy Prophet are sa − hinged on two things: i.Allah revealed the Holy Qur’an informing mankind what − − He expected of them.ii.It was the duty of the Holy Prophet to demonstrate it to sa them by his example.Hence the Holy Prophet transformed into action the spoken Words sa of Allah, and by his simplified the difficult and complicated Sunnah − problems.178

Page 179

− 3.SAYINGS OF THE HOLY PROPHET sa ( ) HADITH ± − Hadith means the words actually spoken by the Holy Prophet or sa ± − words that describe an observed incident related to his life.There are many compilations of.However, six are considered to be the most Hadith ± − genuine and authentic.Together, these six compilations are known as the Sihah Sitta meaning the Six Authentic Ones.These are the compilations ± ± − ± by Imam Abu ‘Abdullah bin Isma‘il Bukhari by Imam (Sahih Bukhari), − − − − − − − ± ± − ± − − − Muslim bin Hajjaj by Imam Abu ‘Isa bin Tirmidhi (Sahih Muslim), (Jami‘ ± − ± ± − ± − − − − − − Tirmidhi), (Sunan Abu Da ud), by Imam Abu Da’ud Sulaiman ’ by Ahmad − − − − − − − − − ± bin Shu‘aib al-Nasa’i and by Imam Abu ‘Abdullah bin (Sunan Nasa’i), − − − − − − − Yazid ibn Majah (Sunan Ibn Majah).− − − Categories of the Books of Hadith ± − Hadith books have been divided into various forms based ± − on the style of publication, purpose of writing, and the author's personal hard work and the depth of his vision.For example: 1.Musnad: These are the books of wherein all the Hadith ± − Ahadith narrated by one particular Companion of the Holy ± − − Prophet and have been placed together in one chapter sa regardless of the subject matter.As an example, all the Ahadith narrated by Hadrat Abu Bakr would appear first, ra ± − − ± ± − then those of Hadrat ‘Umar , then those of Hadrat ra ± ± ± ± ‘Uthman , and so on.consists ra Musnad Ahmad Bin Hanbal − ± ± of about 40,000 narratives of various Companions.The author, , was born in 164 Hadrat Imam Ahmad Bin Hanbal ± ± − ± ± AH and died in 241 AH.2.Mu'jam: This is the book of in which of Hadith Ahadith ± − ± − − 179

Page 180

− every teacher and every town, regardless of the subject matter, have been collected.One of these books is Mu‘jam Tabrani.± − − 3.Jami': In this book, have been compiled by Ahadith − ± − − subject matter and are presented in a specific order, that is, beliefs, commandments, etiquette, society, tasawwuf ± (mysticism), manners, history, and commentary, etc.Examples of such books are and Jami‘ Sahih Bukhari Jami‘ − − ± ± − ± − − − − Tirmidhi.− 4.Sunan: It is a book of that consists of Hadith Ahadith ± − ± − − relating only to commandments and etiquette.Such a book contains chapters of (Jurisprudence).Examples Fiqh are and.Sunan Abu Da’ud Sunan Nasa’i − − − − − 5.Sahihain: Judged on the basis of accuracy, the two most ± ± − ± authentic books are and.Sahih Bukhari Sahih Muslim ± ± − ± − − ± ± − ± 6.Sihah Sittah: As mentioned above, the six most ± ± − ± authentic books of are Ahadith Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi, ± − − − − − Abu Da’ud, Ibni Majah, and Nasa’i.− − − − − − Another famous book of Hadith Mu‘atta Imam Malik is.± − ± ± − − − The reason this name does not appear in the above examples is that all of its are included in the.Ahadith Sahihain ± − − ± ± − ± (Words of Wisdom, Majlis Ansarullah, USA, pp x-xi) ± − − The Categories of Hadith ± − 1.Marf‘a: A in which one of the (narrator of Hadith Ravi ± − − − the narrates that he heard this from the Holy Hadith) ± − 180

Page 181

− Prophet or that the Holy Prophet said this or that the Holy sa sa Prophet did so.sa 2.Muttasil: A whose (The trail of the Hadith Sanad ± ± − narrators of the , through which the reached Hadith Hadith ± − ± − the collector of the or the who wrote the Ahadith Imam ± − − − Hadith book) is continuous [i.e.it contains names of all of ± − the ; the name of none of the s (narrators) is Ravis Ravi − − − − missing].3.Mursal: A whose does not contain name of Hadith Sanad ± − a Companion of the Holy Prophet.e.g.A (One of sa Tabi‘i − − the Muslims who has met a Companion of the Holy Prophet ) relates that the Holy Prophet said or did such.sa sa 4.Munqat‘a: A from whose a person other Hadith Sanad ± − than the Companion of the Holy Prophet is left out and the sa continuity of the is broken.Sanad (Hadiqatus-Salihlin, 3rd Edition, p 8) ± − ± ± − ± − Criteria to Judge Authenticity of a Hadith ± − 1.It does not go against the Holy Qur’an in any way.− 2.It does not go against the of the Holy Prophet and Sunnah sa the collective action of the Companions of the Holy Prophet.sa 3.It is not against an observed and proven incident.4.It is not against the (Truths) and common sense.Badihat − − (Hadiqatus-Salihin, 3rd Edition, p 6 ) ± − ± ± − ± − The Holy Prophet says regarding memorization of the : sa Ahadith ± − − 181

Page 182

− Ó»B¨M ɼ»A ÉR¨I BÈÄÍe j¿A Ó¯ BRÍfY ÅΨIiA ÓN¿A Ó¼§ ¥°Y Å¿ Ð ä ä å Õ å ä ä ä ä ê æ ê ê æ ä æ ê í æ ê ä ä æ ê ä æ ä æ ê ì å Ð Ø ä ä ê ä æ ä AfÎÈq Ë B¨¯Bq ÒÀδ»A ÂÌÍ É» OÄ· Ë BÈδ¯ ( È í æ ê ä ì í ê ä ê ä Ð ê æ ä æ ä ä å æ å ì í æ ê ä man hafiza ‘ala ummati arba‘ina hadithan fi amri diniha ± ± − − − ± − − − − ba‘athahullahu ta‘ala faqihañwwa kuntu lahu yaumal − − − − − qiyamati shafi‘añwwa shahida − − − − Whoever memorized at least forty of my , for the welfare and Ahadith ± − − reformation of my people, Allah the Exalted will raise him up as a jurist − and religious divine on the day of resurrection, and I will be his intercessor with Allah and a witness to his faith − (Baihaqi) − 182

Page 183

− 6 THE HOLY PROPHET OF ISLAM − Allah says in the Holy Qur’an addressing the Holy Prophet : sa − − ¹¼¿ É» Ôh» A B¨ÎÀU Á¸Î»A ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÓÃA pBÄ»A BÈÍ BÍ ½³ ( å æ å ä æ ê ì ä æ ê ä æ å æ ä ê ê Õ å æ å ä æ éê ê å ì ä í ä Ð Ø æ å ~iÜA Ë PÌÀn»A ê ô æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì qul ya ayyu hannasu inni rasulullahi ilaikum jami‘a nilladhi − − − − − − − − lahu mulkussamawati walard − − − ± Say, O mankind! truly I am a Messenger to you all from Allah to whom − belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth.(7:159) The Holy Prophet, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa , was born in sa ± ± ± ± ± Mecca on April 20, 571 AD in the branch of the tribe of Hashimite − Quraish.His father's name was ‘Abdullah and his mother's name Aminah.− − His grandfather, ‘Abdul Muttalib, was the chief of Mecca at the time of ±± Abraha's invasion.Shortly, after his marriage, ‘Abdullah went to Yathrib − (Medina) in pursuit of trade.He died there a few months before the Holy Prophet of Islam was born.His mother, Aminah had seen a vision before sa − − his birth.In this vision, an angel proposed to her the name Muhammad for ± her child.(Sirat Ibni Hasham) − − When the Holy Prophet Muhammad was two years old, he was sa ± sent to a nurse named Halima of the tribe of.In the sixth year Banu Sa‘ad ± − − of his life, Prophet Muhammad was returned to the care of his mother sa ± who took him to to meet other relatives.On the way back from Yathrib Yathrib his mother fell ill and died.183

Page 184

− Prophet Muhammad's grandfather, ‘Abdul Muttalib, was very sa ± ±± fond of him and took him under his own care.But the guardianship of his grandfather lasted only two years and when the Prophet Muhammad was sa ± eight years old, his grandfather also passed away.On his deathbed, ‘Abdul Muttalib entrusted his grandson to the care of one of his sons, Abu Talib.±± − ± − Thus, he was orphaned at a very young age.Muhammad grew into sa ± manhood exhibiting such sterling qualities of truthfulness, integrity, and piety that he became known throughout the land as the Truthful and the Trustworthy ( and ).On hearing of Muhammad's fame, a al-sadiq al-amin sa ± − − ± rich lady by the name of , who was twice widowed, invited him Khadijah ra − to her house and requested him to take charge of her business.Muhammad traveled to Syria while in-charge of business.sa ra Khadijah's ± − The expedition met with great success.made a proposal of Khadijah ra − marriage to Muhammad which, was accepted.At the time of his marriage, sa ± Muhammad was twenty-five years old while was forty.sa ra Khadijah ± − After his marriage to , the Holy Prophet became very Khadijah ra sa − reflective.He used to retire to a cave on Mount and spend his time in Hira ± − meditation and seclusion.He sometimes spent many nights in this cave and on one of these occasions had an extraordinary experience.One night, in the year 610 AD, he was lying, wrapped in a mantle, when the angel Gabriel visited him.Four times the angel embraced him tightly and commanded him to recite: ¹Ii Ë Aj³A μ¼§ Å¿ ÆBnÃÜA μ¼a μ¼a Ôh»A ¹Ii mBI Aj³A , , ‘ ä í ä ä æ ä æê ô î ä ä æ ê ä ä ææê ä ä ä ô ä ä ä æ ê ì ä éê ä ê æ ê æ ä æê ¼¨Í »B¿ ÆBnà A ¼§ ¼´»BI ¼§ Ôh»A j·ÜA ,‘ ‘ j ‘ ,‘ ‘ ,’ È æ ä æ ä æ ä ä ä ä æê ä ì ä ö ê ä ä æ ê ê ä ì ä æ ê ì ö å ä æ æ ä iqra’ bismi rabbikalladhi khalaq khalaqal insana min ‘alaq − − iqra’ wa rabbukal akramulladhi ‘allama bil qalam ‘allamal − insana ma lam ya‘lam − − Recite in the name of your Lord Who created, Created man from an 184

Page 185

− adhesive clot.Recite! And your Lord is the Noblest.Who taught by the pen.Taught man what he knew not.(96:2-6) The Holy Prophet was forty years old at the time of this first sa revelation which marks the beginning of his Prophethood.The night of first revelation occurred towards the end of the month of.When, Ramadan ± − he was called to Prophethood by Allah, he fully devoted his life to Allah's − − service and to the universal spread of Islam.The Holy Prophet asked the sa − people to give up idol worship, and return to the worship of One God and be kind and charitable to the poor.The Meccans, however, rejected the Prophet's message and displayed considerable hostility to him and his sa followers.They started to ill-treat the Holy Prophet and his followers.sa After enduring thirteen years of unimaginable suffering at the hand of the fledgling religion's enemies, the Holy Prophet left Mecca.Under Divine sa guidance he migrated to Medina, where the first Muslim community was established by some of his followers who had migrated earlier.When the Quraish realized that they could not stop the flow of conversion, they became furious and decided to assassinate the Holy Prophet himself.sa When the Holy Prophet learned of the evil intentions of the enemy, he in sa the company of Abu Bakr , quietly slipped out of Mecca in the secrecy of ra − night.They both took shelter in a nearby cave called ".For two Thaur" days and two nights, the Prophet and Abu Bakr hid in the cave.On the sa ra − third night, according to plan, the Holy Prophet continued his journey sa towards , where the people were eagerly awaiting his arrival.When Yathrib he reached , he decided to stop for a while in , a nearby Yathrib Quba’ − village.He stayed in for a few days and also laid down the Quba’ − foundation of the first mosque ever built by the Muslims.After building the mosque, Holy Prophet , finally arrived in Medina where he Quba’ sa − stayed at the home of Hadrat Abu Ayub Ansari.The Holy Prophet , first ra sa ± ± − − − − of all, bought a piece of land in Medina and laid the foundation of a mosque, called (The Prophet's mosque).It was a modest Masjid Nabawi sa − structure made of mud and bricks.The roof was made from leaves and trunks of date palms.The dimensions of the Prophet's mosque were as sa follows: Height, 10 feet; Length, 105 feet; Width, 90 feet.185

Page 186

− The Muslims of Medina were extremely happy to receive the Holy Prophet and his companions.This emigration of the Holy Prophet from sa sa Mecca to is called the and took place in June 622 AD.The Yathrib Hijrah Islamic Calendar dates from this event.Also, (Hijri Calendar) Yathrib − − changed its name to (The city of the Prophet ) and later Medina-tun-Nabi sa − it was shortened to Medina.The faithful followers of the Prophet who had sa left their homes and other worldly possessions in Mecca and had come to Medina for the sake of Islam, were known as or Emigrants.The Muhajirun − − − new converts at Medina, who helped the Prophet at a most difficult time, sa were called by him or Helpers.Ansar ± − The Holy Prophet's enemies continued their efforts to wipe out the sa new faith and its adherents.They fought many battles with Muslims to wipe out Islam, but were completely unsuccessful in thwarting the spread − of Islam.Islam spread rapidly, and when the Holy Prophet returned to sa − − Mecca in January 630 AD, it was in triumph with ten thousand followers.Muhammad forgave those who had opposed him and continued to sa ± propagate the teachings of Islam far and wide.− CHARTER OF FREEDOM This is the document which Muhammad son of ‘Abdullah, God's ± − Prophet, Warner and Bearer of glad-tidings, has caused to be written so that there should remain no excuse for those coming after.I have caused this document to be written for Christians of the East and the West, for those who live near, and for those of the distant lands, for the Christians living at present and for those who will come after, for those Christians who are known to us and for those as well whom we do not know....I promise that any monk or wayfarer who will seek my help on the mountains, in the forests, deserts or habitations, or in places of worship, I will repel his enemies with all my friends and helpers, with all my relatives and with all those who profess to follow me and will defend him, because they are my covenant.And I will defend the covenanted against the persecution, injury and embarrassment by their enemies in lieu of the poll-tax they have promised to pay.If they will prefer themselves to 186

Page 187

− defend their properties and persons, they will be allowed to do so and will not be put to any inconvenience on that account.No bishop will be expelled from his bishopric, no monk from his monastery, no priest from his place of worship, and no pilgrim will be detained in his pilgrimage.None of their churches and other places of worship will be desolated or destroyed or demolished.No material of their churches will be used for building mosques or houses for the Muslims, any Muslim so doing will be regarded as recalcitrant to God and His Prophet.Monks and bishops will be subject to no tax or indemnity whether they live in forests or on the rivers, or in the East or West, North or South.I give them my word of honor.They are on my promise and covenant and will enjoy perfect immunity from all sorts of inconveniences, Every help shall be given them in the repair of their churches.They shall be absolved from wearing arms.They shall be protected by the Muslims.Let this document be not disobeyed till Judgement Day.(Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Holy Qur’an Commentary, Vol.4, ± ± − − − ± − ± − pp 1755-6) THE FAREWELL ADDRESS OF THE HOLY PROPHET AT MECCA ( sa HAJJATUL WIDA’) ± − In the ninth year of the , the Holy Prophet went on a Hijrah sa pilgrimage to Mecca.On the day of the pilgrimage, he received the revelation containing the famed verse of the Holy Qur’an: − OÎyi Ë ÓNÀ¨Ã Á¸Î¼§ OÀÀMA Ë ¸ÄÍe ¸» O¼À·A ÂÌλA ‘ ‘ å æ ê ä ä æ ê ä æ ê æ å æ ä ä å æ ä æä ä æ å ä æ ê æ å ä å æ ä æ ä ä æ ä æä BÄÍe Ým A Á¸» ’ j í È æ ê ä ä æ ê å å ä al yauma akmaltu lakum dinakum wa atmamtu ‘alaikum − ni‘mati wa raditu lakumul islama dina − ± − − − This day have I perfected your religion for you and completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as religion.(5:4) − 187

Page 188

− This verse said in effect that the message which the Holy Prophet sa had brought from God and which by word and deed he had been expounding all these years, had been completed.Every part of this message was a blessing.The Message now completed, embodied the highest blessings which man could receive from God.The Message is epitomized in the name ', which means submission.Submission 'Al-Islam' − was to be the religion of Muslims, the religion of mankind.The Holy Prophet recited this verse in the valley of , sa Muzdalifah where the pilgrims had assembled.Returning from , the Muzdalifah Prophet stopped at It was the eleventh day of the month of sa Mina.Dhul − Hijjah.The Prophet stood before a large gathering of Muslims and sa ± delivered an address, famed in history as the farewell address of the Prophet.In the course of this address he said: sa " O men, lend me an attentive ear.For I know not whether I will stand before you again in this valley and address you as I address you now.Your lives and your possessions have been made immune by God to attacks by one another until the Day of Judgement.God has appointed for every one a share in the inheritance.No 'Will' shall now be admitted which is prejudicial to the interests of a rightful heir.A child born in any house will be regarded as the child of the father in that house.Whoever contests the parentage of this child will be liable to punishment under the Law of Islam.Anyone who attributes his birth to some one else's father, or falsely − claims someone to be his master, God, His angels and the whole of mankind will curse him.O men, you have some rights against your wives, but your wives also have some rights against you.Your right against them is that they should live chaste lives, and not adopt ways which may bring disgrace to the husband in the sight of his people.If your wives do not live up to this, then you have the right to punish them.You can punish them after due inquiry has been made by a competent authority, and your right to punish has been established.Even so, punishment in such a case must not be severe.But if your wives do not do such things, and their behavior is not such as would bring disgrace to their husbands, then your duty is to provide for them food and garments and shelter, according to 188

Page 189

− your own standard of living.Remember you must always treat your wives well.God has charged you with the duty of looking after them.Woman is weak and cannot protect her own rights.When you married, God appointed you the trustees of those rights.You brought your wives to your homes under the Law of God.You must not, therefore, insult the trust which God has placed in your hands.O men, you still have in your possession some prisoners of war.I advise you, therefore, to feed them and to clothe them in the same way and style as you feed and clothe yourselves.If they do anything wrong which you are unable to forgive, then pass them on to someone else.They are part of God's creation.To give them pain or trouble can never be right.O men, what I say to you, you must hear and remember.All Muslims are as brethren to one another.All of you are equal.All men, whatever nation or tribe they may belong to, and whatever station in life they may hold, are equal.While he was saying this the Prophet raised his hands and joined sa the fingers of the one hand with the fingers of other and then said: Even as fingers of the two hands are equal, so are human beings equal to one another.No one has any right, any superiority to claim over another.You are as brothers.Proceeding, the Prophet said: sa Do you know what month this is? What territory we are in? What day of the year it is today? The Muslims said in reply, they knew it was the sacred month, the sacred land and the day of the.Hajj ± Then the Prophet said: sa Even as this month is sacred, this land inviolate, and this day holy, 189

Page 190

− so has God made the lives, property and the honor of every man sacred.To take any man's life or his property, or attack his honor, is as unjust and wrong as to violate the sacredness of this day, this month, and this territory.What I command you today is not meant only for today.It is meant for all times.You are expected to remember it and to act upon it until you leave this world and go to the next to meet your Maker.In conclusion he said: What I have said to you, you should communicate to the ends of the earth.Maybe those who have not heard me may benefit by it more than those who have heard.(Sihah Sitta, Tabari, Hisham and Khamis) ± ± ± ± − − − The Prophet's address is an epitome of the entire teaching and sa spirit of Islam.It shows how deep was the Prophet's concern for the sa − welfare of man and the peace of the world; also how deep was his regard for the rights of women and other weak creatures.The Prophet knew his sa end was near.He had hints from God about his death.(Life of Mohammad , Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, p 160-162) sa ± ± ± − − − ± − ± THE HOLY PROPHET'S ILLNESS sa Two months after returning from the farewell pilgrimage, the Holy Prophet fell ill.The Prophet's Mosque ( ) in Medina was sa sa Masjid Nabawi − adjacent to his residence.One day the Prophet stood by the window and sa looked outside at the Muslims getting ready to say Prayer behind Abu Fajr − Bakr.The people looked at the Holy Prophet's face and waited for him to ra sa join them.He smiled at them and indicated with hand for Abu Bakr to go ra − ahead with the Prayer.That was the last time the Muslims saw their Prophet's face; that day at noon, the Holy Prophet passed away.At the sa sa time of his demise on May 26, 632 AD* in Medina, Islam had spread − throughout Arabia.*1.History of Ahmadiyyat Vol.3, p 555 (printed as footnote): Akhbar Jang ± − 190

Page 191

− Karachi September 28, 1958: According to the modern investigation of Dr.Muhammad Shaheedullah, Professor, Rajshahi University, ± Bangladesh the Holy Prophet passed away on 1st Rabi‘ul Awwal,11th sa − Hijri which corresponds to 26th May, 632.According to the book − 'Attaufiqatil Ilhamiyyah' 1st Rabi‘ul Awwal,11th Hijri corresponds to − − − − − 27th May, 632 AD instead of 26th May, 632 AD.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi passed away on 26th May, 1908 and was buried on 27thMay, as − 1908.This concurrence of the two dates apparently becomes an interpretation of the tradition of the Holy Prophet : sa ÔjJ³ Ó¯ Ó¨¿ ůfί æ ê æ ä æ ê ä ê ä å ä æ å ä fa yudfanu ma‘iya fi qabri − − He will be buried with me in my grave (Mishkat Bab Nazul 'isa) − − − − (The tradition was no indication of burial of a dead body along with the body of the Holy Prophet in his grave.What it meant was he would be sa spiritually identified completely with the Holy Prophet.) sa 2.In Tabqat ibn Sa‘ad, Section II, page 377 and in History of Islam by ± − − Mueenuddin Nadvi the date of demise of the Holy Prophet is given as sa 12th Rabi‘ul Awwal,11th Hijri.− − 3.In Sirat ibn Hasham Vol IV, History of Islam written by Sayyed Ameer − − − ‘Ali and History of the Arabs by Philip Hatty, the date of demise of the − Holy Prophet is given as June 8, 632 AD.sa 191

Page 192

− 7 KHILAFAT (SUCCESSION) IN ISLAM − − The word is derived from Arabic word ' and "Khalifah", 'Khalafa' − literally means, 'One who comes after', successor, vicegerent, substitute, or deputy.Its plural is Khulafa.− The famous writes: Imam Ibni Kathir − − " " is the person who performs the duties of another person Khalifah − gone before him as his successor." (Al-Niyyat, Vol.1, p 315) The Holy Qur’an has mentioned the following two types of − Khulafa: − 1.Khalifatullah − − God's Representatives, who are Prophets such as Hadrat ± ± Adam and Hadrat David.as as ± ± About Adam God Almighty says: as Ұμa ~iÜAÓ¯ ½§BU ÏÃA Ò¸ ¼À¼» ¹Ii ¾B³ gA Ë s È í ä æ ê ä ê æ æ ä ê Ñ ê ä æ éê ê ê ä Ó ê Ð Ø ä æê ä í ä ä ä æê ä wa idh qala rabbuka lilmala’ikati inni ja‘ilun filardi − − − − ± khalifah − And when thy Lord said to the angels: 'I am about to appoint a vicegerent in the earth'.(2:31) 192

Page 193

− And about David God Almighty says: as ~iÜAÓ¯ Ұμa ¹Ä¼¨U BÃA e ËAfÍ ( ê æ æ ä ê í ä æ ê ä ä Ð æ ä ä ì ê å ä Ð ya da’udu inna ja‘alnaka khalifatan filard − − − − − − ± O David, We have made thee a vicegerent in the earth.(38:27) 2.Khalifatunnabi − − Khulafa who are successors of Prophets, follow their − footprints and lead the community on the of their Shari‘ah − Master Prophets.Such may be or Khulafa Prophets − Khulafa.They may be contemporaries of their master − Prophets or succeed them after their death.Such as Israelite Prophets who all were the of Moses.Khulafa as − The Holy Prophet has stated regarding : sa Khilafat − Ò¯Ýa BÈN¨JM ÜA ³ ÑÌJà OÃB· B¿ ¡ Ñ ää ê ä æ ä êä ì ê í ä Ñ ì åå æ ä ä ä ma kanat nubuwwatun qattu illa tabi‘at-ha khilafatun − − ±± − − − 'There has been no Prophet who has not been followed by Khilafat.' − (Khasa ‘isulkubra, part II, p 115) ± − − ± − After the sad demise of the Holy Prophet , the second type of sa Khilafat Khilafat-i-Rashida was established by Allah.It was known as the − − − − (The righteous ).Hadrat Abu Bakr , the closest companion of the Khilafat ra − ± ± − 193

Page 194

− Holy Prophet , was elected his first successor.Hadrat Abu Bakr was sa ra ± ± − followed by three other close and worthy companions Hadrat ‘Umar , ra ± ± Hadrat ‘Uthman , and Hadrat ‘Ali.After the passing of Hadrat ‘Ali , ra ra ra ± ± − ± ± − ± ± − many factions sprung up among Muslims, and the word was Khalifah − misapplied to the dynastic succession of the ruling families.The system of , in one form or another, lasted some 626 Khilafat − years after the sad demise of the Holy Prophet.During this period five sa distinct Caliphates existed among the Muslims, all belonging to the House of.These were: Quraish 1.The Righteous Caliphate 632 - 661 AD 2.The Umayyad Caliphate of Damascus 661 - 750 AD 3.The ‘Abbasid Caliphate of Baghdad 750 - 1258 AD 4.The Umayyad Caliphate of Spain 929 - 1031 AD 5.The Fatimid Caliphate of Egypt 909 - 1171 AD − The fourteenth and last of the Caliphs was dethroned in Fatimid − 1171 AD by Salahuddin the Great, the famous warrior of the Crusades.With the fall of Al-Azid ended the dynasty which was founded by Fatimid − Al-Mahdi some 262 years ago.− 194

Page 195

− Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq ra (Period of Khilafat: 632-634 AD) ± ± − ± − − The personal name of Hadrat Abu Bakr was ‘Abdullah, but based ra ± ± − − on his son's name, Bakr, he was known as Abu Bakr.His father was known − as Abu Qahafah and his mother as Ummul Khair Salma.He was born in − ± − 572 AD in Mecca.He was a close friend of the Holy Prophet.He was the sa first among men to confirm the truth of the claim of the Holy Prophet and sa thus earned the title.He was in the company of the Holy Prophet Siddiq sa ± − during his migratory journey ) from Mecca to Medina.He was the (Hijrah only companion of the Holy Prophet in the Cave , where they both sa Thaur took refuge during this journey.Following the (The Last Pilgrimage), when the Hajjatul Wida‘ ± − Holy Prophet fell seriously ill, he instructed Hadrat Abu Bakr to lead the sa ra ± ± − daily Prayers.After the sad demise of the Holy Prophet , Hadrat Abu sa ± ± − Bakr was elected as the first.He had to deal with an extremely ra Khalifah − difficult situation which developed due to the sudden demise of the Holy Prophet.sa The first problem was that some of the tribes renounced Islam, − simply because their tribal chiefs did not feel necessary to remain loyal to the successors of the Holy Prophet.Not only that but they started sa preparing to attack Medina to end the newly established institution of Khilafat.Hadrat Abu Bakr , after knowing their intentions, sent troops and ra − ± ± − succeeded in suppressing their rebellion.The second major problem faced by Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq was ra ± ± − ± − that many people refused to pay the , which was essential for Zakat − fulfilling the needs of the Islamic state and caring of the poor.Hadrat Abu − ± ± − Bakr vowed to collect from everyone and took all the necessary ra Zakat − measures to achieve this goal.195

Page 196

− The most dangerous of all the problems was that a number of ambitious persons pretending to be prophets, started rebellion against the Islamic state and raised large armies.Musailma Kadhdhab Aswad Ansi, − − − and captured some of the Muslim territories.Hadrat Abu Bakr was ra ± ± − prompt to fight back these rebellious false prophets.Despite meager resources, Allah granted him victory against the mischief mongers.− One of the many great achievements of his was the Khilafat − collection of the Holy Qur’an at one place.Although the writing and − arrangement of the Holy Qur’an was done under the supervision of the − Holy Prophet himself, yet it was written on various pieces of skin, leaves sa and slates.Hadrat Abu Bakr collected all these pieces of writings in one ra ± ± − place, and re-organized the system of , or those who committed it to Huffaz − ± memory, in a systematic way, for the preservation of the Qur’an.− During the last days of his life, the Holy Prophet had raised an sa army to be sent against the Romans who had made some incursions into the Northern borders.This army was still in Medina when the Holy Prophet passed away.As Hadrat Abu Bakr became , the law and sa ra Khalifah ± ± − − order situation within and outside the Medina became very delicate.In view of this grave danger, many Companions of the Holy Prophet advised sa him not to send the army against the Romans.But Hadrat Abu Bakr ra ± ± − replied forcefully, "What authority has the Son of Abu Qahafah, to stop − ± − that which was started by the Holy Prophet ".The Muslim army, under the sa command of Hadrat Khalid bin Walid , crushed a rebellion in Bahrain.ra ± ± − − Then the Persians were defeated, who had supported the rebels of Bahrain.The Muslim Army also defeated the Roman forces in the battles of Ajnadan Yarmuk and , and thus the whole of Syria came under the control − of the Islamic state.− Hadrat Abu Bakr passed away on August 23, 634 AD, after ra ± ± − remaining ill for fifteen days.He was one of ten blessed ones to whom the Holy Prophet had given the glad tidings that they had been rewarded the sa Paradise.He remained for a little over two years.Khalifah − (The Ahmadiyya Gazette, Majeed A.Mian, April/May 2000, p28-29) ± 196

Page 197

− Hadrat ‘Umar Faruq ra (Period of Khilafat: 634-644 AD) ± ± − − − His personal name was ‘Umar, Faruq was his title, and Ibn − − Al-Khattab, his family name.He was born in 581 AD in Mecca, and ±± − belonged to a noble family of the.He was a renowned Quraish businessman and used to lead trade delegations to Syria and Iraq.When the Holy Prophet announced his claim to Prophethood, sa Hadrat ‘Umar Bin Khattab became a fierce opponent of Islam.So much ra ± ± ±± − − so that one day he took up his sword and left his house with the intention to kill the Holy Prophet.On his way, someone told him to first deal with sa his own sister and brother-in-law, who had already accepted Islam.He − went straight to them and knocked at their door, he could hear the Holy Qur’an being recited inside the house.This made him furious and he − started beating his brother-in-law, and wounded his sister who tried to protect her husband.His wounded sister said in a resolute voice, ' Umar! ‘ You may beat us as much as you like, but we are not going to give up our faith.' This made him calm down, and he asked them to recite a portion of the Holy Qur’an for him.He was so moved by the Qur’anic verses that his − − eyes filled with tears.He went straight to the Holy Prophet and accepted sa Islam.As he was a strong, fearless and influential man of Mecca, he − proved to be a source of strength for Muslims.This miraculous change in Hadrat Umar was in fact the result of the Holy Prophet's prayers.‘ ra sa ± ± Hadrat ‘Umar Bin Khattab was the second successor of the Holy ra ± ± ±± − Prophet.During his , the Islamic state expanded and progressed sa Khilafat − − extensively.Peace and prosperity prevailed everywhere in the state.During the period of his , the Muslims had to fight a number of battles Khilafat − against Iran, Iraq, Syria and Egypt.As a result of this, vast areas of these countries came under the Muslim rule.When the city of Jerusalem in Palestine was conquered by the Muslims in 17 Hadrat ‘Umar Hijri, ra − ± ± himself visited the city on the request of the Romans, and signed a treaty between the Muslims and the people of Jerusalem.197

Page 198

− Hadrat ‘Umar established a splendid system of administration for ra ± ± the Islamic state.Some of his main achievements in this field are: − 1.Establishment of , a consultative body of Majlis Shura − advisors to the.Khalifah − 2.Division of the whole Islamic state into provinces to − facilitate administration.3.Establishment of a finance department and building of schools and mosques in different parts of the state.4.Introduction of the Islamic calendar of.Hijrah − Hadrat ‘Umar was so anxious about the welfare of his people that ra ± ± he used to go around in disguise, in the city of Medina at night, to see himself if anyone was in need of help.Once, during his patrol at night, he observed a woman cooking something in a pot while her children were crying around her.He found out from the woman that the children were hungry for two days and the pot was put on the fire just to console them.He immediately went to the treasury, and himself brought all the necessary food items to the woman.On his way, one of his servants offered to carry the load but he stopped him saying: 'On the Day of Judgment you will not carry my load.' The woman, who had not seen Hadrat ‘Umar before, was so ra ± ± pleased that she prayed aloud for him saying, 'May Allah make you the − Khalifah in place of ‘Umar.' On hearing this, Hadrat ‘Umar started crying ra − ± ± and without saying a word left the place.In 644 AD, Hadrat ‘Umar was stabbed by a Persian slave, while ra ± ± he was offering his Prayers in the Mosque.This proved fatal and he passed away at the age of sixty three on 26th of , 23 AH.He was a Dhul Hijjah ± truly great whose period of was undoubtedly a golden Khalifah Khilafat − − period in the history of Islam.He was one of ten blessed ones to whom the − Holy Prophet had given the glad tidings that they had been rewarded the sa Paradise.(The Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, Cyril Glasse, Stacey International, − London,1989, p 408; Ahmadiyya Gazette, April/May 2000, p 28-29) ± 198

Page 199

− Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani ra (Period of Khilafat: 644-656 AD) ± ± − − − Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani was elected the third by the ra Khalifah ± ± − − − Council appointed by Hadrat Umar shortly before his death.When ‘ ra ± ± Hadrat ‘Umar was on his death bed, he appointed a Council to elect the ra ± ± next successor.The Council consisted of: Hadrat ‘Abdur Rahman bin ‘Auf Hadrat Talha ra ra ± ± − ± ± ± ± Hadrat ‘Ali Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani , and ra ra ± ± − − ± ± − − Hadrat Sa‘d Hadrat Zubair ra ra ± ± ± ± Hadrat ‘Abdur Rahman bin ‘Auf was not willing to shoulder the ra ± ± − great responsibility and opted out of the election in favor of the other five.He was, therefore, appointed to seek a common consensus for the next Khalifah.Hadrat ‘Abdur Rahman bin ‘Auf took the opinions of the ra − ± ± − Council members and other prominent Muslims and the majority votes were in favor of Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani.He was, therefore, declared as ra ± ± − − the elected and everyone took the oath of allegiance at his hands.Khalifah − Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani belonged to the well known family, ra Banu ± ± − − − Umayya Quraish of the.His lineage can be traced back to the Holy Prophet in the fifth generation before him.His generosity for the poor sa was so well known that he earned the title.Ghani − Hadrat ‘Uthman embraced Islam through the preaching of his ra ± ± − − close friend, Hadrat Abu Bakr.He was the fourth person to embrace ra ± ± − Islam, but he faced much hardships as his uncle started persecuting him.− He migrated twice, first to Abyssinia and then to Medina.The Holy Prophet held Hadrat ‘Uthman in great esteem, and sa ra ± ± − married his daughter, Ruqayyah to him.On her death, the Holy Prophet ra sa married his second daughter, Ummi Kulthum to Hadrat ‘Uthman.Thus, ra ra − ± ± − Hadrat ‘Uthman was called , meaning the one with two lights.ra Dhunnurain ± ± − − 199

Page 200

− During the of Hadrat ‘Uthman the Islamic Empire Khilafat ra − ± ± − − expanded still further.A rebellion in Iran was crushed.In the North, the Romans were once again defeated by the Muslim forces led by Hadrat ± ± Amir Muawiah.Then the Romans came by the sea to invade Egypt, but ra − − were once again repelled by the Muslim forces.As a result of these battles, the whole of Iran, Asia Minor and Egypt came under Muslim control.It was during his that a navy and an Islamic fleet were established.Khilafat − − During his , standard copies of the Holy Qur’an were Khilafat − − prepared from the ones compiled by Hadrat Abu Bakr and sent to all the ra ± ± − provinces of the state.This was certainly his most important deed.The Holy Qur’an, as we see it today, was compiled during his and Khilafat − − under his direct supervision.The last six years of his , however, Khilafat − passed in chaos and conflicts due to the conspiracies of certain groups including that of ‘Abdullah Bin Sabah, a Jew who had become a Muslim − ± − ± with an intention of weakening the Islamic state.− Towards the end of his , various groups who wanted to Khilafat − depose Hadrat ‘Uthman entered Medina.He refused to fight them, as he ra ± ± − did not want to shed the blood of fellow Muslims.His house was surrounded by the rebels who demanded that he step down, but Hadrat ± ± ‘Uthman refused to step down from the God-given position of ra Khilafat − − because of his just and firm belief that a was made by God and Khalifah − not by people.Hadrat ‘Uthman was then martyred on June 17, 656 AD, at the age ra ± ± − of eighty-two, while he was reciting the Holy Qur’an.He certainly − sacrificed his life for the integrity of in the best interest of Islam.Khilafat − − He was one of ten blessed ones to whom the Holy Prophet had given the sa glad tidings that they had been rewarded the Paradise.(The Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, Cyril Glasse, Stacey International, − London, 1989, p 412; A Book of Religious Knowledge,Waheed Ahmad, p.150 ) 200

Page 201

− Hadrat Ali Bin Abi Talib ‘ ra (Period of Khilafat: 656-661AD) ± ± − − ± − − With the death of Hadrat ‘Uthman , a state of complete disorder ra ± ± − and anarchy ruled in the city of Medina.After five days of political wrangling, Ibn Saba, leader of the Egyptian rebel group supported the ± − cause of Hadrat ‘Ali on the grounds that he was the rightful in ra Khalifah ± ± − − whose favor the Holy Prophet has made a 'Will'.On June 23, 656 AD, six sa days after the death of Hadrat ‘Uthman , Hadrat ‘Ali was chosen as the ra ra ± ± − ± ± − fourth successor of the Holy Prophet and the public swore allegiance at sa his hand one by one.Hadrat ‘Ali was the son of the Holy Prophet's uncle, Abu Talib.ra sa ± ± − − ± − He was born in Mecca about twenty years after the birth of the Holy Prophet.When Hadrat ‘Ali was born, the Holy Prophet himself became sa ra sa ± ± − his guardian, as his father's financial position was very weak.Hadrat ‘Ali stayed in the bed of the Holy Prophet the night when ra sa ± ± − the Holy Prophet left Mecca for Medina.The Meccan leaders had planned sa to arrest and kill the Holy Prophet.The next morning, they were enraged sa when they found Hadrat ‘Ali in the bed, instead of the Holy Prophet.ra sa ± ± − Hadrat ‘Ali was a brave and skilled warrior.He participated in almost all ra ± ± − the battles along with the Holy Prophet.Hadrat ‘Ali was married to sa ra ± ± − Hadrat Fatimah who was the daughter of the Holy Prophet.ra sa ± ± − ± Soon after his election, Hadrat ‘Ali moved the capital of the ra ± ± − Muslim State from Medina to Kufah in Iraq, which was a more central − place.After his election, he faced the popular demand of Muslims, including influential companions of the Holy Prophet , like Hadrat Talha , sa ra ± ± ± ± and Hadrat Zubair to immediately punish the murderers of Hadrat ra ± ± ± ± ‘Uthman.ra − 201

Page 202

− Hadrat ‘Ali announced that his top priority was to restore law and ra ± ± − order in the state, and only then he would be able to bring the assassins of Hadrat ‘Uthman to justice.But Hadrat Talha and Hadrat Zubair did not ra ra ra ± ± − ± ± ± ± ± ± agree with Hadrat ‘Ali and started raising an army.Hadrat ‘A’ishah who ra ra ± ± − ± ± − was not aware of the real situation, also joined Hadrat Talha and Hadrat ra ± ± ± ± ± ± Zubair , in an effort to punish the assassins.The three led a small army ra towards Basra.± Hadrat ‘Ali tried his best to avoid fighting and bloodshed, but all ra ± ± − his efforts failed.Unfortunately, a battle took place between his forces and the forces of Hadrat ‘A’ishah.However, Hadrat Talha and Hadrat ra ra ± ± − ± ± ± ± ± ± Zubair left their forces even before the battle, and were killed by some ra other opponents.Hadrat ‘A’ishah's forces were defeated, but Hadrat ‘Ali ra ra ± ± − ± ± − gave her due respect and took care of her safety.He sent her back to Medina in the escort of her brother, Muhammad bin Abu Bakr.The battle ra ± − was called the (Camel) because Hadrat ‘A’ishah rode a Battle of Jamal ra ± ± − camel during the battle.Later, Hadrat ‘A’ishah was regretful throughout ra ± ± − her life to have fought against Hadrat ‘Ali.ra ± ± − After the , Hadrat ‘Ali urged Amir Muawiah , who Battle of Jamal ra ra ± ± − − − had not yet taken the of Hadrat ‘Ali to submit to him in the best Bai‘at ra ± ± − interest of Islam.But Amir Muawiah refused to submit on the pretext that ra − − − the blood of Hadrat ‘Uthman , who also belonged to the family of ra ± ± − Umayyah, must be avenged first.Amir Muawiah , with the help of Amr Bin ‘As , started raising an ra ra − − − ± army.Hadrat ‘Ali had no alternative but to advance towards Syria to fight ra ± ± − Amir Muawiah.In July, 567 AD, the two armies met in a battle at.ra Saffain − − ± There were heavy casualties on both sides, but the battle ended in an accord that the matter be decided by an arbitration committee.This consisted of Abu Musa al-Ash‘ari , representing Hadrat ‘Ali , and Amr ra ra − − − ± ± − Bin ‘As representing Amir Muawiah.Unfortunately, this arbitration ra ra − ± − − 202

Page 203

− ended in failure because Amr Bin ‘As deviated from the decision agreed ra − ± upon with Abu Musa al-Ash‘ari.ra − − − A large group of people, who were basically against the proposal of arbitration, separated from Hadrat ‘Ali and chose an independent ra Amir ± ± − − for themselves.This group was called , meaning 'The outsiders'.Khawariji − − At first, Hadrat ‘Ali tried to persuade them to submit to him, but failed.ra ± ± − This led to a fierce battle in which most of the were killed.Khawariji − − After this crushing defeat, the planned to assassinate Khawariji − − Hadrat ‘Ali , Hadrat Amir Muawiah and Amr Bin ‘As.The latter two ra ra ra ± ± − ± ± − − − escaped from the attempts on their lives.Hadrat ‘Ali was fatally wounded ra ± ± − by his attacker, while going to the mosque for prayer.Two days latter, Fajr this courageous and pious passed away on 20th , 40 AH.Khalifah Ramadan − ± − Undoubtedly, Hadrat ‘Ali sacrificed his life for the integrity of.ra Khilafat ± ± − − He was one of the ten blessed ones to whom the Holy Prophet had given sa the glad tidings that they had been rewarded the Paradise.Accession of Hadrat Hasan ra ± ± ± On the death of Hadrat ‘Ali , his eldest son Hasan was elected as ra ra ± ± − ± the.As soon as Muawiah learned of this, he invaded Iraq and a Khalifah ra − − battle ensued between Muawiah and Hasan's armies.Hasan realized the ra ra ra − ± ± seriousness of the situation and sent a letter of submission to Muawiah.ra − Hasan agreed to abdicate his right to in favor of Muawiah on ra ra Khilafat ± − − the condition that after Muawiah's death, Hasan's younger brother, ra ra − ± Husain will be made the After this agreement, Hasan retired to ra ra Khalifah.± − ± his family in Medina, where he was poisoned to death at the instigation of Yazid, the son of Muawiah.ra − − (The Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, Cyril Glasse, Stacey International, London, − 1989, pp 33-34; A Book of Religious Knowledge, Waheed Ahmad, p.152) 203

Page 204

− 8 SECTS IN ISLAM (THE MAINSTREAM − SECTS AND THE SUBSECTS) During the course of Islamic history, political events and − ideological and theological issues divided the Muslim community into various groups which then started to identify with specific causes.At present there are more than 72 sects in Islam.− A tradition of the Holy Prophet states that the Ummati Muslimah will divide into 73 sects: O³j°M ¾B³ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ÆA Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ D ê ä ì ä ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ì ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä Ë Ò³j¯ ÅΨJm Ë ÅÎNÄQA ËA Ò³j¯ ÅΨJm Ë ÔfYA Ó¼§ eÌÈλA ä í ä æ ê ä æ ê æ ä ä ê æä ä æ ê ä í ä æ ê ä æ ê æ ä ä Ð æê Ð ä å æ å ä æ - Ò³j¯ ÅΨJm Ë TÝQ Ó¼§ ÓN¿A ¶jN°M Ë ¹»g ½R¿ ÔiBvÄ»A í ä æ ê ä æ ê æ ä ì î ä ä Ð ä æ ê ì å å ê ä æ ä ä ä ê Ð ä æ ê Ð ä ì ‘an abi hurairata anna rasulallahi qala tafarraqatil yahudu ra sa − − − − − ‘ala ihdawwa sab‘ina firqatan a-withnataini wa sab‘ina − ± − − − firqatan wannasara mithla dhalika wa taftariqu ummati ‘ala ± − − − − − thalathiñwwa sab‘ina firqatan.− − Hadrat Abu Huraira narrates that the Holy Prophet said: "Jews were ra sa ± ± − divided into 71 or 72 sects.Similarly, the Christians were divided in 71 or 72 sects.My Ummah will divide into 73 sects." (Tirmidhi abwabul iman bab iftaraq hadhi hil ummati) ‘ − − − − − − − 204

Page 205

− The two mainstream sects of Islam are: The , and the Sunnis − − Shi'ite.All other sects developed from these two mainstreams.Some well-known sects and their relationship with the two mainstream sects are: Sunni Stream of Islam:: Ahli Sunnat, Ahl-i-Hadith, − − ± − Wahhabis, Ahmadis − − ± − Shi‘ah Stream of Islam:: ( Zaidis Also called "Five-Imam − − − Shi'ites" or "Fivers"), Twelvers, (Also called "Twelve-Imam Shi'ites" − or ithna‘ashari‘a), Seveners: Nizaris − − ± − − (Isma‘ilis), Musta’lis (Bohras).− − − − The Sunnis − [The adjective from the word (practice and custom Sunnis Sunnah − of the Holy Prophet ")] is the largest group of Muslims.The full name of sa the is ’ (The people of the and the Sunnis Ahlussunnah wal-jama Sunnah − − Consensus).This is the main sect of Muslims.About 85% of the Muslims are Sunnis Khulafa-i-Rashidin.They accept the authority of all the (The − − − − righteous ) and follow closely the custom and practice ( ) of Khulafa Sunnah − the Holy Prophet.They adhere to the Islamic law ( ) as interpreted sa Shari‘ah − − by the four well-known jurists and Imams: Malik bin Anas, Abu Hanifa, − − − ± − Muhammad bin Idris al-Shafi’ i and Ahmad bin Hanbal.± − − − ± ± The Schools of Jurisprudence There are four Schools of Jurisprudence among the : the Sunnis − Hanafi; Hanbali; Maliki Shafi’i and.Each school is a legal system ± − ± − − − − − developed out of the so-called "Foundations of the Jurisprudence" ( Usul ± − al-fiqh Abu Hanifah Malik ibn ).The founders of the schools are: (d.767); − ± − − Anas Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi’i Ahmad ibn (d.795); (d.820); and ± − − − ± Hanbal Maliki (d.855).The school is dominant in the Arab West and West ± − − 205

Page 206

− Africa; the school is dominant in most countries that were formerly Hanafi ± − part of the Turkish Empire and India.The school is mostly Hanbali ± − observed in Saudi Arabia and in Qatar.The school is dominant in Shafi’i − − Indonesia, Malaya, and the Philippines; it is also important in Egypt, where the and schools are also represented.Hanafi Maliki ± − − − A majority of the Muslims belong to the or Sunni Ahl-i-Hadith − ± − Traditionalist sect.They give particular importance to sayings and doings of the Holy Prophet as recorded in the various books of.Over the sa Ahadith ± − − years, many sects developed which took issues from some of the main beliefs of the traditionalists.Two of these sects are: Wahhabis and − − Ahmadis.± − The Wahhabis − − The sect rose in the middle of the eighteenth century Wahhabi − − within the Arabian Peninsula.The movement was started by Wahhabi − − Muhammad bin ‘Abdul Wahhab (1703 -1793 AD) who was a native of ± − Najd, a province in north-central Arabia.He preached a strict puritanical Islam which forbade the veneration of the holy places, religious relics and − holy men.Amir Muhammad ibn Sa ud accepted beliefs and his ‘ Wahhabi − ± − − − descendants, the , did much to propagate and establish House of Sa ud ‘ − Wahhabi doctrines in Arabia and surrounding areas.During the spread of − − the political influence of the , numerous armed conflicts House of Sa ud ‘ − occurred with the Ottoman Empire of Turkey.Technically, the consider themselves to be Wahhabis − − "Non-imitators" or not attached to tradition ( ), and ghair muqallidin − therefore answerable to no School of Jurisprudence at all, observing instead what they call the practice of early Islam.However, to do so does − correspond to the ideal aimed at by , and thus they can be said Ibn Hanbal ± to belong to this "school".The Shi'ites The branch of Islam with doctrines significantly different Shi‘ah − 206

Page 207

− from those of the orthodox majority comprises 15% or less of the Sunni − total of all Muslims.The name or means, "A partisan" and Shi‘ite Shi‘ah comes from (The "Party of ‘Ali").The believe that Shi‘at ‘Ali Shi'ites − − Hadrat ‘Ali was the legitimate successor to the Holy Prophet.Hadrat ra sa ± ± − ± ± ‘Ali was the cousin and also son-in-law of the Holy Prophet.The ra sa Shi'ite − believe this blood relationship entitled only Hadrat ‘Ali and his ra ± ± − descendants to inherit the spiritual "mantle" of the Holy Prophet.They sa disown the three other.Khulafa-i-Rashidin − − − The stream of Islam traces its origin in political Shi‘ah − developments dating back to Hadrat ‘Uthman, the third successor of the ± ± − Holy Prophet.At the death of Hadrat ‘Umar , the second , a sa ra Khalifah ± ± − Council of six persons was entrusted with the task of electing the new Khalifah.The backers and supporters of Hadrat ‘Ali , commonly referred ra − ± ± − to as the partisans of Hadrat ‘Ali , showed visible disappointment at the ra ± ± − outcome and called the election a "conspiracy" to withhold the Khilafat − from the Prophet's own family.This was the first seed of dissension sa which appeared in Islam and eventually divided the otherwise united − community.According to the belief, Hadrat ‘Ali inherited all the Shi‘ah's ra ± ± − spiritual abilities of the Holy Prophet and was the only rightful successor.sa The , therefore, reject the of Hadrat Abu Bakr , Hadrat Shi‘ahs Khilafats ra − ± ± − ± ± ‘Umar , Hadrat ‘Uthman and that of the Umayyad dynasty that followed.ra ra ± ± − Furthermore, the do not accept many of the Holy Shi‘ahs Ahadith − − Prophet which were transmitted by Hadrat ‘A’ishah , the wife of the Holy sa ra ± ± − Prophet , whom they consider an enemy of Islam.The also differ sa Shi‘ahs − from the in many other areas such as the regulations governing the Sunnis − ablution, , Prayer, Pilgrimage and declaration of one's faith.Adhan − The Shi'ites are divided into the following principle groups: 1.The largest division, , also called Twelve-Imam Shi'ism − "Twelvers" ithna‘ashari‘a ( ), has been the official religion of − − 207

Page 208

− Persia since the dynasty came to power in 1501.Safavid ± − − Twelve-Imam Shi'ite make up 60% of the population in − Iraq, and as minorities they are also present in Afghanistan, Lebanon, Pakistan and Syria, as well as in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and some Gulf States.The Twelve-Imam Shi'ites are known by this name because they − follow the twelve , all belonging to the House of Imams − ‘Ali.Their twelfth , Muhammad Al-Mahdi, is ra Imam − − ± − believed by them to be still alive and in hiding.The Shi‘ahs believe in the Messianic return of this in the Latter Imam − Days of Islam.− 2.The , also called or Zaidis "Five-Imam Shi'ites" "Fivers", − − are found in the Yemen, where they make up about 40% of the population.Zaid was the son of ‘Ali Zain al-Abidin, the − − − grandson of Husain and the great-grandson of ‘Ali bin Abu ± − − Talib.Zaid was killed in an armed conflict against the ra ± − Umayyad Khalifah, Hisham.Since his death, his supporters − − and followers broke away from the mainstream of Shi‘ahs and became a distinct sect by themselves.Of all the Shi‘ahs Zaidis Sunnis , are the closest to in their beliefs.− − Today the are mostly found in Yemen.Zaidi Shi‘ahs − 3.The third largest group, the altogether two million Seveners, or more are in India, and scattered across Central Asia, Iran, Syria, and East Africa.The division of into and the Shi‘ahs Twelvers Seveners Imam sects occurred after their sixth , Ja‘far − al-Sadiq.At the death of Ja‘far al-Sadiq in 765 AD, the ± − ± − Twelvers made his younger brother, Musa al-Kazim, there − − ± seventh.A dissenting group, later called the Imam − Seveners, followed the line of Ja‘far al-Sadiq's direct ± − descendents.Since Ja‘far al-Sadiq's own son, Isma‘il, had ± − − − predeceased him, the recognized the new in Seveners Imam − the son of Isma‘il named Muhammad al-Mahdi.For this − − ± − reason the are also referred to as.Seveners Shi‘ahs Isma‘ili − − − 208

Page 209

− The continued to recognize their own for the next Isma‘ilis Imams − − − − 144 years, right through the period of the ‘Abbasid Caliphate.Then in 909 − AD, an by the name of ‘Ubaidullah overthrew the Aghlabid Isma‘ili Imam − − − − − dynasty centered in Tunis, took over the name of ‘Ubaidullah al-Mahdi − − and established himself as the first of the dynasty.Khalifah Fatimid − − ± Then at the death of the al-Mustansir in 1059 AD, Fatimid Khalifah − ± − ± ± the divided into two sects.The ones who followed the younger Isma‘ilis − − − son of al-Mustansir by the name of who became the next al-Must‘ali ± ± − Khalifah, are called.The others who followed the elder son by Must‘alis − − the name of who was imprisoned, are called.al-Nizar Nizaris ± − ± − − These groups each contain further subdivisions, and in some cases have given rise to offshoots, such as the , while certain sects on Shaykhis − the fringes of Islam have been influenced by ideas of a dominantly Shi‘ite − -- and often -- stamp.Isma‘ili − − − The Nizari Isma‘ilis ± − − − − − The took their leader, al-Nizar, into a Nizaris ± − − ± − mountain fortress and for a number of years led a life of secrecy and terror.They were notorious for carrying out well planned assassinations of their enemies and opponents.In 1817 AD, one was given the title of Nizari Isma‘ili Imam ± − − − − − − Agha Khan by Qajar Shah of Iran.This later moved Imam − − − − to India where his missionaries had considerable success in converting the local Hindu population to their doctrines.Since then the title of Agha Khan has ben retained by the − − Nizaris Isma‘ilis Imams for their.± − − − − − − The Must‘ali Bohras − The continued to follow the direct line of Must‘alis − 209

Page 210

− al-Must ali.But the visible line of ended in ‘ Must‘ali Imams − − − 1130 AD when al-Must‘ali's son, al-‘Amir died leaving − only an infant son by the name of.The al-Tayyeb Fatimid ± − ± Caliphate continued through the new al-Hafiz who Khalifah − ± ± was the grandson of al-Musntasir.But since al-Hafiz and ± ± ± ± the other that followed him were not in direct line Khulafa − of descent from al-Must ali, the did not ‘ Must‘ali Shi‘ahs − − recognize them as their.Imams − According to the belief the infant son of Must‘ali − al-‘Amir is in hiding and is considered by them as the invisible Imam Must‘alis.The of Yemen managed to − − convert large numbers of Hindus in Gujrat, a province in Western India.These converts are known in India and Pakistan as the.Bohras (A Book of Religious Knowledge, Waheed Ahmad, 1988, pp 162-166) ± Unlike the world, where no allegiance to a religious Sunni − authority (With the exception of Ahmadis) is required other than accepting ± − the procedures of a School of Jurisprudence, must in principle Shi'ite adhere personally to a superior authority called a The Mujtahid.Mujtahids, the most important of whom are called , not only decide Ayatullahs − − religious matters of their followers, but also control considerable sums of money, because they collect a special tax called the (A "fifth ).khamas " The Larger Shi‘ah Subsects The following are the larger subsects of the : Shi ahs ‘ 1.Al-Imamiyyah 2.Al-Zaidiyyah − 3.Al-Kaisaniyyah − Al-Imamiyyah is further divided into these sects: − 1.Al-Baqiriyyah 2.Al-Nausiyyah − 3.Al-Shamitiyyah 4.Al-Amariyyah − 210

Page 211

− 5.Al-Muswiyyah 6.Al-Qatiyyah − 7.Al-Muhammadiyyah 8.Al-Asna Ashriyya ± The Al-Imamiyyah subsects are: − 1.Al-Isma liyyah 2.Al-Hashamiyyah ‘i − − − 3.Al-Zariyyah 4.Al-Yunisiyyah ± − 5.Al-Shaitaniyyah 6.Al-Kamaliyyah − − The Al-Zaidiyyah sect is divided into the following subsects: 1.Al-Jarudiyyah 2.Al-Sulaimaniyyah − − − 3.Al-Batriyyah − is divided into two further subsects.One of these Al-Kaisaniyyah sects is of the view that Imam Muhammad bin Hanfiyyah is still alive and − ± ± that he is the awaited The other sect is of the opinion that Imam Mahdi.− − Muhammad bin Hanfiyyah has passed away and that after his death, his ± ± son Abu Hashim ‘Abdullah, became his legatee and successor.The founder − − − of the sect was Mukhtar Saqfi.Al-Kaisaniyyah − − − The Shi ah sects which are not part of the group are: ‘ Imamiyyah − 1.Al-Sabiyyah 2.Al-Maghiriyyah ± − 3.Al-Janahiyyah 4.Al-Mansuriyyah − ± − 5.Al-Khatabiyyah 6.Al-Batniyyah − − 7.Al-Haluliyyah.− (Review or Religions, Malik Sifur Rahman, Vol.94, No.7, ± − July, 1999, pp 51-63) 211

Page 212

− 9 AHMADIYYAT, THE AHMADIYYA ± ± MUSLIM JAMA AT ‘ − Ahmadiyyat is the Divinely promised revival of Islam prophesied ± − in the Holy Qur’an and by the Holy Prophet of Islam.sa − − The Holy Qur'an says: θZ»A lÍl¨»A ÌÇ Ë ÈI AÌ´Z¼Í BÀ» ÈÄ¿ ÅÍjaA Ë ,‘ ‘ ‘ å æ ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ ä å ä æ È ê ê æ å ä æ ä ì ä æ å æ ê ä æ ê ä Ð ä wa akharina minhum lamma yalhaqu bihim wa huwal ‘azizul − − − ± − − hakim ± − And others from among them who have not yet joined them.He is among the Mighty, the Wise.(62:4) The Holy Prophet said: sa Á¸Ä¿ Á¸¿B¿A Ë Á¸Î¯ ÁÍj¿ ÅIA ¾là AgA ÁNÃA ±Î· æ å æ ê æ å å ä ê ä æ å æ ê ä ä æ ä å æê ä ä ä ä ê æ å æä ä æ ä kaifa antum idha nazala ibnu maryama fikum wa imamukum − − − minkum "What will be your condition when Son of Mary will appear among you and he will be your Imam from among yourselves." − (Bukhari, Kitabul Anbiya) − − − − 212

Page 213

− A tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding the advent of the sa Messiah and is: Imam Mahdi − − ÓJÄ»A fħ Bm̼U BÄ· ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ D é ê ê ì ä æ ê í æ å å ì å ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä BÀ» ÁÈÄ¿ ÅÍjaA Ë : Aj³ BÀ¼¯ Ò¨ÀV»A ÑiÌm Éμ§ O»là gA ì ä æ å æ ê ä æ ê ä Ð ä Ú ä ä ì ä ä ê ä å å æ å ä æ å ê æ ä ä æ ä ä ä æê ɨUAjÍ Á¼¯ ?ɼ»A ¾Ìmi BÍ ÕÜÌÇ Å¿ ½Ui ¾B³ ÁÈI AÌ´Z¼Í ( å æ ê ä å æ ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ä ê ä Ø Û Ð Ø æ ä Ñ å ä ä ä æ ê ê æ å ä æ ä ÆBÀ¼m BÄÎ¯Ë ¾B³ BQÝQ ËA ÅÎMj¿ ËA Ñj¿ É»Bm ÓNY ÓJÄ»A ( D å ä æ ä ä æ ê ä ä ä í ä ä æ ä ê æä ì ä æ ä í ì ä ä Ú ä Õ ä í ê ì Ì» ¾B³ ÁQ ÆBÀ¼m Ó¼§ ÊfÍ ÓJÄ»A ©y̯ ¾B³ ÓmiB°»A < ( D æ ä ä ä ì å ä ä æ ä Ð ä ä ä í ê ì ä ä ä ä ä ä í ê ê ä æ - ÕÜÌÇ Å¿ ¾BUi É»BÄ» BÍjR»A fħ ÆBÀÍ A ÆB· ( j ê ä Ø Û Ð Ø æ ê Ñ ä ê ä ää ì ä í ä æ ê å ä æê ä ä ‘an abi hurairata qala: "kunna julusun ‘indannabiyyi : idh ra sa − − − − nazalat ‘alaihi suratul jumu‘ati falamma qara’a: wa akharina − − − − − minhum lamma yalhaqu bihim qala rajulun: mann ha ’ula’i ya − ± − − − − − rasulallahi ? falam yuraji‘ hunnabiyyu hatta sa’alahu sa sa − − − ± − − − marratan au marrataini au thalathan qala wa fina salmanul − − − − − farisiyyu, qala: fa wada‘annabiyyu yadahu ‘ala salmana sa − − ± − − − thumma qala: lau kanal ‘imanu ‘indaththurayya lanala hu − − − − − − − rijalun min ha ’ula’i − − − Hadrat Abu Huraira narrates that we were sitting with the Holy Prophet ra sa ± ± − when was revealed: "And he will appear among others Surah Al-Jumu‘ah − who have not yet joined the companions of the Holy Prophet." We sa asked: "Who are they O Prophet of Allah?" Among us Salman of Persia ra − − was sitting.The Holy Prophet placed his hand upon Salman and said: sa ra − "If faith ascends to the Pleiades some men from among them will bring it back to earth." (Bukhari kitabul Tafsir Surah Al-Jumu'ah wa Muslim) − − − − − 213

Page 214

− God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ÅÍf»A ¼§ ÊjȤλ μZ»A ÅÍe Ë ÔfÈ»BI É»Ìmi ½miA Ôh»AÌÇ  ( ( ê æ éê ä ä ä ê æ åê é ê ä æ ê æ ê ä Ð å æ ê ä æ å ä ä ä æ ä æ Ø ê ì ä å ɼ· × é ê å huwalladhi arsala rasulahu bilhuda wa dinil haqqi li − − − − − ± yuzhirahu ‘aladdini kullihi ± − − − 'He it is Who has sent His Messenger with the guidance and the Religion of truth, that He may cause it to prevail over all religions.' (61:10) In the commentary of this verse the following is mentioned: ÑfYAË Ò¼À»AjÎvM ÅÎY Ë ÁÍj¿ ÅIAÓnΧ fħ ¹»g í ä ê ä å ì ê æ å æ ê ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä ê æ Ð æ ê ä æ ê ä ê Ð dhalika ’inda ’Isabni Maryama wa hina tasirul millatu − − ± − ± − wahidatan − ± It is during the Promised Messiah's time that the true religion will supersede over all the false religions and only one religion will remain (Ibn Jarir Volume 28, p 53) − In the famous Book of ), Shi'ites (Ghayatul Maqsud, Vol 2, p 123 − ± − regarding this verse of the Holy Qur’an, it is stated: − "The (Messiah) mentioned in this verse ( ) of the Holy 'rasul' 61:10 − Qur’an refers to Imam Mahdi." − − − The International Ahmadiyya Movement or the Ahmadiyya ± ± Jama'at Imam Mahdi was founded in 1889 by the Promised Messiah and , − − − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad , in a small, remote and unknown village, as ± ± − − ± 214

Page 215

− Qadian, in the Punjab, India.Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, a devoted ± ± − − ± follower of the Holy Prophet Muhammad announced that he had been a sa ± constant recipient of Divine revelation for some years and God has informed him that the day of the Renaissance of Islam was about to dawn − and this revival would be brought about through him.In 1889, he claimed that he was the expected Reformer of the Latter Days, of the world community of religions, and in the Awaited One 1891 he claimed that he is the Promised Messiah, whose advent in the Latter Days had been prophesied by the Holy Prophet of Islam.He also sa − claimed, under Divine direction, that in his advent were fulfilled the prophecies handed down in all the great faiths of the appearance of a great teacher in the Latter Days.He laid the foundation of the Ahmadiyya ± Muslim after receiving the following revelation from God Jama'at − Almighty: 0 Ó¿i ɼ»A Ÿ»Ë Oοi gA Oοi B¿0¹Î¯ ɼ»A ºiBI fÀYA BÍ Ð ä ä Õ ì ê Ð ä ä æ ä ä æê ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê å Õ ä ä ä å ä æ ä ä ÅÎJNnN»Ë.ÁÈ FIA ihÃA B¿B¿Ì³ ihÄN».ÆAj´»A Á¼§ ÅÀYj»A r ä æê ä æ äê ä æ å Û ä Ð ä ê æå ì í æ ä ä ê æåê ä Ð æ å æ ä ì ä å Ð æ ì ä ÅÎÄ¿ ÌÀ»A ¾ËA BÃA Ë Pj¿A ÓÃA ½³ ÅοjVÀ»A ½ÎJm ä æê ê Ù å æ å ì ä ä ä ä å æ êå æ éê ê æ å ä æ ê ê æ å æ å æê ä ya Ahmadu barakalla hu fika ma ramaita idh ramaita wa − ± − − − − lakinnalla ha rama Arrahmanu ‘allamal Qur’ana li tundhira − − − ± − − qaumamma undhira aba’u hum wa litastabina sabilul − − − − − mujrimina qul inni ‘umirtu wa ana awwalul mu’minin − − − − Allah bless thee O Ahmad.It was not thou who didst let loose but it was − ± Allah who let loose.The Most Gracious One has taught thee the Qur’an − − so that you shouldst warn the people whose ancestors have not been warned and that the way of the guilty ones might become manifest.Proclaim: I have been commissioned and I am the first of the believers.(Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya, Part III, First Edition, p 238-242; A’ina Kamalati − − ± − − − − Islam, p 550) − 215

Page 216

− The Promised Messiah and Mahdi on December 1, 1888 as − published the following (pronouncement): Ishtihar − "At this place, there is another message that I want to give to people in general and to my Muslim brothers in particular is that: I have been commanded that those who are desirous of the truth, they in order to learn about true (belief), true righteousness, true ‘Iman − − love of God Almighty and to discard the idle and treacherous life, should do (Initiation) at my hands.So,those who feel in their heart strong Bai‘at enough to do so, it is incumbent on them that they should join me as I will be their comforter.I will try to relieve their burden.God Almighty will bless for them my prayers and my attention towards them.However, the condition is that they must be wholeheartedly ready to obey the laws promulgated by God Almighty.This is a commandment of God which I have conveyed to you today.In this regard the following has been revealed to me in Arabic: BÄÎYË Ë BÄÄΧ BI ¹¼°»A ©ÄuAË É¼»A Ó¼§ ½·ÌN¯ O¿l§ AgA ä ê æ ä ä ä ê å æ ä ê ä æ å æ ê ä æ ä ê Õ ä ä æ ì ä ä ä ä æ ä ä ä ê ÁÈÍfÍA ¶Ì¯ ɼ»A fÍ É¼»A ÆÌ¨ÍBJÍ BÀÃA ¹Ą̃ÍBJÍ ÅÍh»A æ ê æ ê æ ä ä æ ä ê Õ å ä ä Õ ä æ å ê ä å ì ê ä ä æ å ê ä å ä æ ê ì ä idha ‘azamta fatawakkal ‘alallahi wasna‘il fulka bi a‘yunina − − ± − wa wahyina alladhina yubayi ‘unaka innama yubayi ‘unalla ± − − − − − − − − ha yadulla hi fauqa aidihim.− − When you make up your mind you should trust God and in front of Us and according to Our revelation prepare an Ark ( ).Nizam-i-Jama'at ± − − Those who initiate at your hands, God's Hand will be upon their hands." (Ishtihar, December 1, 1888, p 2; Tablighi Risalat, Vol.1, p 145) − − − In March 1889, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad went to Ludhiana, as ± ± − − ± and on the 4 of that month he issued a leaflet in which he stated: th 216

Page 217

− "God desires to found a community of the faithful to manifest His Glory and Power.He will make the Community grow and prosper, to establish the love of God, righteousness, purity, piety, peace and goodwill among men.This shall be a group of persons devoted to God.He shall strengthen them with His own spirit, and bless them and purify them.He shall multiply them exceedingly as He has promised.Thousands of truthful people shall join His ranks.He shall Himself look after them and shall make the Community grow, so much so that its numbers and progress shall amaze the world.The Community shall be a lighthouse so high as to illumine the four corners of the world.The members thereof shall serve as models of Islamic blessings.My true followers shall excel every other people.There − shall always rise among them, till the Judgement Day, personages who will be the Chosen Ones of God in every respect.So has the Almighty decreed.He Does as He Wills." (Ahmadiyyat, The Renaissance of Islam, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, 1978, p 41 ± − ± ± − The formal initiation took place on March 23, 1889, at Ludhiana, India at the house of Hadrat Sufi Ahmad Jan.Hadrat Maulana Nuruddin ra ra ± ± − − ± − ± ± − − − was the first one who had at the hands of the Promised Messiah and Bai‘at Mahdi.Thus, in 1889 under Divine guidance, the Promised Messiah and as − Mahdi laid down the foundation of his community, which was later on as − given the name of Ahmadiyya Muslim (Community).In 1891, Jama'at ± − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian claimed to be the Messiah whose ± ± − − ± coming was foretold by the Holy Prophet.sa The Holy Prophet had prophesied, as follows, the condition of Islam sa − at the time of advent of the Messiah and Mahdi : as − ÉÀmi ÜA ÆAj´»A Å¿ Ó´JÍ Ü Ë ÉÀmA ÜA ÂÝm A Å¿ Ó´JÍ Ü ( ( j å æ ä ì ê ê Ð æ å æ ä ê Ð æä ä ä å æ ì ê ê ä æ ê ä ê Ð æä ä Å¿ jq ÁÇ ÕBÀ¼§ ÔfÈ»A Å¿ LAja ÓÇ Ë Ñj¿B§ ÁÇfUBn¿ æ ä í ä æ å å Ø ä ä å Ð å æ ä ê Ñ ä ä ä ê ì Ñ ä ê ä æ å å ê ä ä 217

Page 218

− - ęM ÁÈί Ë ÒÄN°»A XjbM ÁÇfħ Å¿ ÕFÀn»A ÁÍeA OZM å æ å ä æ ê æ ê ä å ä æ ê æ å å æ ä æ ê ê æ ê æ ê ê ä ì ê æ ê ä ä æ ä la yabqa minal islami illasmuhu wa la yabqa minalqur’ani illa − − − − − − − − rasmuhu masajiduhum ‘amiratuñwwa hiya kharabun minal − − − − huda ‘ulama’u hum sharru man tahta adimissama’i min − − ± − − ‘indihim takhrujul fitnatu wa fihim ta‘udu − − There will come a time upon the people when nothing will remain of Islam except its name only and nothing will remain of the Qur’an except − − its inscription.Their mosques will be splendidly furnished but destitute of guidance.Their divines will be the worst people under the Heaven and strife will issue from them and avert to them.(Mishkat Kitabul 'Ilm Fatha uthalith, p38) − − − While stating the precarious situation of the Ummat-i-Muslimah, the Holy Prophet gave a glad tiding that at that critical time, Allah will sa − raise a Messiah and who will bring about revival of Islam Imam Mahdi − − − which will lead to its universal victory.The Holy Prophet said about sa as Im m Mahdi : a − ± − ÔfÈÀ»A ©¿ ÆÌ¸M ÓÇ Ë fÄÈ»A Ël¬M ÒIBv§ ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ D é ê ê æ ä æ ä ä å æ å ä ä ê ä ä æ ê æ å æ ä Ñ ä ä ê ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä - fÀYA ÉÀmA ( å ä æ ä å æê qala rasulullahi ‘isabatun taghzul hinda wa hiya takunu sa − − − ± − − − ma‘al mahdiyyi ismuhu Ahmad − ± The Holy Prophet said: "A community will fight in India and will be sa with the whose name is Ahmad." Mahdi − ± (Rawahul Bukhariyyu fi Tarikhi-hi) − − − − − − 218

Page 219

− Hadrat ‘Abdullah bin Harith bin Jaz’i states that the Holy ra ± ± − − Prophet said: sa : ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÔfÎIl»A ÕlU ÅI TiBZ»A ÅI ɼ»AfJ§ ŧ ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä é ê ê æä é å ê æ ä ê æ ê ê ä æ ê æ ê Õ ê æ ä æ ä ÆÌ Ìί ¶jrÀ»A Å¿ pBà XjbÍ : ɼ»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ s D ä æ Û éê ä å ä ê ê æ ä æ ä ê Ñ ä å å æ ä ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä - ÉÃBñ¼m ÓÄ¨Í ÔfÈÀ¼» ( ä ä æ å æ ê æ ä é ê ê æ ä æê ‘an ‘abdillahibnil harithibni jaz’izzubaidiyyi qala: qala ra − ± − − − rasulullahi yakhruju nasun minal mashriqi fa yuwatti ’una sa − − − ±± − lilmahdiyyi ya‘ni sultanahu − − − " Hadrat ‘Abdillah ibn Harith narrates that the Holy Prophet said: A ra sa ± ± − − group of people will appear in the East who will pave the way for the success of the that is, they will work towards the progress and Mahdi, − prevalence of the Mahdi." − (Abu Da’ud Vol.2, Bab Khurujul Mahdi and Ibn Majah Misri p 519 − − − − − − − ± − Bab Khurujul Mahdi) − − − Another tradition of the Holy Prophet is as follows: sa ɳfvÍË É§f· BÈ» ¾B´Í ÒÍj³ Å¿ ÔfÈÀ»A XjbÍ ÓJÄ»A ¾B³ D å å éê ä å ä æ ä æ ä ä ä å ä å î ä æ ä æ ê í ê æ ä æ å å æ ä í ê ì ä ä ½ÇA Ñf§ Ó¼§ eÝJ»A Óv³A Å¿ ÉIBZuA ©ÀVÍ Ë Ó»B¨M ɼ»A ( ê æä ê ì ê Ð ä êä ê æ ä æä æ ê ä ä æ ä å ä æ ä ä Ð ä ä å Õ BÈί Ò¿ÌNb¿ Ò°ÎZu ɨ¿ Ë ÝUi jr§ ÒMÝQ Ë Ò B¿ TÝRI ifI ( r ä æ ê Ñ ä æ å æ ä Ñ ä æ ê ä ä ä ä í å ä ä ä ä ä ää ä ä ê Ú ê ê ä ä ê î æ ä - ÁÈ»Ýa Ë ÁÇeÝI Ë ÁÈÖ FÀm BI ÉIBZuA ef§ æ ê êä ê ä æ ê êä ê ä æ ê ê ä æ ä ê × ê ä æ ä å ä ä qalannabiyyu yakhrujul mahdiyyu min qaryatin yuqalu laha sa − − − kad‘ah wa yusaddiqu hullahu ta‘ala wa yajma‘u ashabahu min ± − − − ± ± − − 219

Page 220

− aqsal biladi ‘ala ‘iddati ahli badrin bi thalathi mi’ati wa ± − − − thalathata ‘ashara rajulan wa ma‘ahu sahifatun − − ± ± − makhtumatun fiha ‘adadu ashabihi bi asma ’ihim wa biladi − − − ± ± − − − − him wa khilalihim − The Holy Prophet said: "God Almighty will show signs in his attestation sa and like Companions of the Holy Prophet in Badr, the will be sa Mahdi − granted 313 illustrious companions whose names and addresses will be recorded in an authoritative book.( The names and addresses of 313 companions of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi are written in a book of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi ) as as − − (Jawaharul Israr, p56, Hadrat Sheikh ‘Ali bin Hamza bin − − ± ± − ± ‘Ali-ul-malakul Tusi, Irshadati Faridi Vol.3, p 70) − − − − − − Sahib Jawaharul Israr writes that in the following tradition Arba‘in, ± − ± − − − has been stated: ÔfÈÀ»A XjbÍ É¼»A ¾Ìmi ¾B³ ¾B³ jÀ§ ÅI ɼ»A fJ§ ŧ D í ê æ ä æ å å æ ä ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä ä ä ä ä å ê æ ê Õ ê æ ä æ ä Ò§f· BÈ» ¾B´Í ÒÍj´»A Å¿ Ñ ä æ ä ä ä å ä å ê ä æ ä æ ä ê ‘an ‘abdillahibni umara qala qala rasulullahi yakhrujul ra sa − − − − − mahdiyyu minal qaryati yuqalu laha kad‘atun − − Hadrat ‘Abdillah ibn ‘Umar narrates that the Holy Prophet stated: ra sa ± ± − " will appear from a village named, " Mahdi Kad‘a.− (Jawahirul Israr p.56, Baharul Anwar Vol.13 p 23) − − − − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's claims aroused bitter opposition as ± ± − − ± on the part of the religious leaders of all principal faiths.His followers were subjected to extreme persecution.They were deprived of religious 220

Page 221

− freedom and fundamental human rights.Even laws were enacted in some countries to render them liable to severe punishment and prosecution for mere act of professing and preaching their faith.Yet all its phenomenal opposition utterly failed to arrest the progress of Ahmadiyyat, which is ± marching forward even faster today than ever before.All the efforts of hostile fanatics, be they individuals, groups or governments, have totally failed in their purported objective of exterminating Ahmadiyyat from the ± face of the earth.(Centenary Jubilee Message, Delivered in 1989 by Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad) ± ± − ± − ± Today, branches of ± Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are spread all around the globe.It already enjoys the allegiance of million s of people drawn from all regions of the earth and comprising all races and colors.Its membership is rapidly increasing all over the world.Ahmadiyyat is Islam in its pristine purity, and not a new religion.It ± − is the Renaissance of Islam in the Latter Days.Ahmadi Muslims strictly − ± − follow the original religion of Islam and have not added or taken out − anything, as far as the fundamental beliefs and acts of worship are concerned.The members of the Ahmadiyya Community are required to ± illustrate in their daily lives all the social, moral and spiritual values inculcated by Islam, of which the highest example was furnished in the life − of the Holy Prophet of Islam.The movement the Promised Messiah and sa − Mahdi started is an embodiment of the benevolent message of Islam - as − − peace, universal brotherhood, and submission to the Will of God -- in its pristine purity.The (Community) was established Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − under Divine guidance with the objective of reviving the high moral and spiritual values.It encourages interfaith dialogue, and diligently seeks to remove misunderstandings between all faiths.It advocates peace, mutual respect, love and understanding among the followers of various faiths.It firmly believes that there must not be any compulsion in matters of religion.It strongly rejects violence and terrorism in any form and under any pretext.221

Page 222

− The Community strives to revive faith in Allah; to expound − spiritual beauties and excellences of the teachings of Allah; to infuse hope, − faith and courage in the hearts of all races and nations of the world; and to inculcate among them the spirit of tolerance, goodwill and a feeling of true brotherhood.Thus it seeks to unite humanity with its Creator and thereby establish peace throughout world.The is Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − noted for its active engagement in social welfare and in meeting not only the medical and educational needs of its own members, but also of communities in which they reside.For instance, in Africa and Asia, there are scores of Ahmadiyya Muslim schools and medical facilities operating ± at no cost to the public.The Name ' 'Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − A census was taken in 1901 in India.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi's issued a notice to his followers instructing them to record as − themselves in the census papers under the title Muslims.Thus he Ahmadi ± − distinguished his followers from the other Muslims by conferring on them the title of.Ahmadi ± − (Hadrat Ahmad, Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, p 43) ± ± ± ± ± − − − ± − ± The name (Community) was given to Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − the Community by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi to commemorate the as − name of the Holy Prophet who has the two names, and sa Muhammad ± Ahmad.As the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's mission was to carry on as ± − the work of the Holy Prophet Muhammad under his second name.sa Ahmad ± ± The names, , Ahmadi Ahmadiyyat, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − ± ± − (Community) are merely to distinguish Ahmadi Muslims from other ± − Muslims, and Ahmadi interpretation from other interpretations of Islam.± − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "The name which is appropriate for the Movement and which we 222

Page 223

− prefer for ourselves is Muslims of the sect.We have chosen Ahmadiyya ± this name because the Holy Prophet had two names, Muhammad and sa ± Ahmad; Muhammad was his name of glory, and Ahmad was his name of ± ± ± beauty.In the name of Muhammad was implicit a prophecy that the Holy ± Prophet , would punish with the sword such enemies as would attack sa Islam with the sword and slaughter hundreds of Muslims.His name − Ahmad indicated that he would spread peace and security in the word.God ± so arranged the life of the Holy Prophet , that his Meccan life was a sa manifestation of his name Ahmad and Muslims were taught patience and ± endurance.In his life in Medina, his name Muhammad was manifested.± But there was a prophecy that name Ahmad would be manifested again in ± the Latter Days that a person would appear through whom the qualities of beauty, which characterize Ahmad, would be manifested, and all fighting ± would come to an end.For this reason it has been considered appropriate that the name of this sect should be sect, so that everyone Ahmadiyya ± hearing this name should realize that this sect has come into being for the spread of peace and security and that it would have nothing to do with war and fighting." (Tabligh-i-Risalat Vol.IX, pp 90-91) − − Ahmadis believe that the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's mission as ± − − was to cleanse Muslims of the errors and superstitious customs that had crept into their beliefs and practices during fourteen centuries, and following Islam the way it was practiced at the time of the Holy Prophet.sa − A tradition of the Holy Prophet states that the will Ummati Muslimah divide into 73 sects: Ò¼¿ ÜA iBÄ»A Ó¯ Áȼ· Ò¼¿ ÅΨJm Ë TÝQ Ó¼§ ÓN¿A ¶jN°M í ì ê ì ê ê ì ê æ å í å í ì ê ä æ ê æ ä ì î ä ä Ð ä æ ê ì å å ê ä æ ä ÑfYAË í ä ê ì taftariqu ummati ‘ala thalathiñwwa sab‘ina millatan kulluhum − − − − finnari ill millatañwwahida − − ± 223

Page 224

− 'A time will come when my followers will become divided into seventy-three sects.All of them except one will deserve the fire.' (Tirmidhi abwabul ‘iman bab iftaraq hadhi hil ummati) − − − − − − − Thus, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi distinguished his as − followers from the other Muslims by conferring on them the title of Ahmadi Muslims.± − Hadrat Mu leh Ma‘ud, Khalifatul Masih II writes regarding the s ra ± ± ± ± − − − ± name, ' Ahmadiyyat': ± "---The names Ahmadi, Ahmadiyyat, etc., do not point to a new ± − ± religion.Ahmadis are Muslims and their religion is Islam.The slightest ± − − deviation from it, they consider wrong and degrading.True, Ahmadis have ± − adopted the names, , Ahmadiyyat Ahmadiyya Movement, Ahmadiyya ± ± ± Jama'at and so on.But adoption of a name is not the adoption of a new − religion.The name Ahmadiyyat is the name of reinterpretation or a ± restatement of the religion of the Holy Qur’an.It is a restatement presented − under Divine guidance by the founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement.The ± names are merely to distinguish Ahmadi, Ahmadiyyat, Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − ± ± − Ahmadi Muslims from other Muslims and Ahmadi interpretation from ± − ± − other interpretations of Islam....− --- Different groups of Muslims, out of regard for their special beliefs and outlook, have adopted different names.It becomes necessary for us to adopt a name to distinguish ourselves from others.The best name we could adopt was the name or.This name has a Ahmadi Ahmadiyyat ± − ± significance for our time.Ours is the time appointed for the propagation, all over the world, of the Universal Message of the Holy Prophet --- It is sa the time for the diffusion of the Praises of God and for the spread of knowledge of His bounty and beauty, and the time for the manifestation of the attribute of , the attribute of having had Ahmadiyyat Muhammadiyyat ± ± its manifestation already.A better name could not have been adopted." (Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, The London Mosque, 1980, p 3-4) ± 224

Page 225

− HADRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMAD QADIANI, ± ± − − ± THE PROMISED MESSIAH AND IMAM MAHDI as − − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the founder of the Ahmadiyya as ± ± − − ± ± Movement in Islam and was the Promised Messiah and of the Mahdi − − Latter Days.He was born on February 13, 1835 in Qadian, India.He was born a twin.His birth was preceded by the birth of a baby sister who died within a few days.There is a reported prediction of the famous saint and scholar Hadrat Muhiyuddin Ibn ‘Arabi that the Promised Messiah would ± ± ± − − be born a twin.Mirza Ghulam Murtada, the father of Hadrat Ahmad, was a − − ± − ± ± ± chieftain of the Punjab and principal landowner of the village of Qadian.His father had been entitled to a seat at the durbars of the Mogul emperor, and this was continued for him under the Sikh and British governments.He also owned houses in other towns.This did not imply riches, but it did mean servants and a recognized position of authority.It also meant that Ahmad was taught at home by various tutors.± The family was of noble descent, as it normally meant that it was descended from a successful warrior.Around the year 1530, Mirza Hadi − − − Beg, a central Asian chieftain of Persian descent, moved out of Samarkand and, accompanied by his family and about 200 retainers, entered the Punjab and settled down in an open area in the district of Gurdaspur, about 70 miles East of Lahore.There he founded a walled and fortified village which he named Islampur.− − Mirza Hadi Beg was a descendant of the uncle of the famous Amir − − − − Taimur and, as a scion of the royal family, which had founded the Mogul − Empire, he was granted an estate of several hundred villages and appointed judge, or , of the surrounding district., the village he had Qadi Islampur − ± − − − founded, came to be known as.In course of time the word Islampur Qadi − − ± − 'Islampur' Qadian was dropped and the village was called.This later − − − ± became Qadian.− 225

Page 226

− (Ahmad the Guided One, Iain Adamson, pp17-18) ± Hadrat Ahmad led a wholly blameless, pure and beneficent life, ± ± ± which followed in the minutest detail the pattern that had been established by the Holy Prophet.Thus, his life greatly mirrored that of the Holy sa Prophet.He had not received much formal education but had made a deep sa study of the Holy Qur’an and of the scriptures of other faiths and was − richly endowed with knowledge of the profound eternal verities.In 1876 Hadrat Ahmad's father fell ill.After spending a few hours ± ± ± with his father, he retired to his room, and it was revealed to him that his father would die the same day after sunset through the following verse of the Holy Qur’an (3 June, 1876): − ¶iBñ»AË ÕFÀn»AË , ö ê ê ì ä ê ä ì ä wassama’i wattariq − ±± − By the heaven and the Morning Star.(86:2) (Dhikri Habib, p 224, by Hadrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq , December, 1936; ra ± − ± ± − ± ± − Tadhkira, 2nd Edition, p 23) He felt sad and a thought flashed through his mind that with the death of his father, his financial support would also cease and days of poverty may follow.He felt drowsy again and received a revelation ( June 1876): Ê fJ§ ²B¸I ɼ»A oλA ( È ä æ ä î ä ê å Õ ä æ ä ä alaisallahu bikafin ‘abduhu − − − Is not Allah sufficient for His servant? (39:37) − (Kitabul Bariyya, p 162,163) − 226

Page 227

− These words were so impressed in his mind and he realized that Allah would not forsake him, and He Alone will take care of his needs.So − it happened.Throughout the remainder of his life, Allah blessed him and − all his needs in all his endeavors were fulfilled by Allah.As it was revealed − to him, his father died on the same day, after sunset.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi got the words of the above revelation engraved in a as − ring.Ahmadis all over the world wear rings with the words of the above ± − revelation inscribed in a beautiful layout.(Sirat Hadrat Masih Ma‘ud and Mahdi by Sheikh Ya‘qub ‘Ali ‘Irfani , p 31) as ra − ± ± − ± − − − − − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was known from an early age for as ± ± − − ± his truthfulness, piety, and integrity.His knowledge of Islam and his − devoted defense of it against all critics was renowned.However, when he declared himself to be Promised Messiah under Divine guidance in 1891, those that had revered him now attacked him.Undaunted, he continued his claim to be the Messiah, as foretold by the Holy Prophet , and the sa prophecies of the Holy Qur’an and Bible.In fact, he fulfilled all the − existing prophecies concerning the advent of a reformer in the Latter Days.He also emphasized that his purpose in being appointed by Allah was to − bring new life to the religion of Islam, which had become polluted and − corrupted over the ages, and to establish its supremacy over all other religions.He claimed that Islam is a living religion, following which, a seeker − can establish a living relationship with God and communion with Him.He brought no new teachings, but was the most devoted follower and servant of the Holy Prophet.He proclaimed that the Living God speaks to the sa man who wholly submits to Him in Islam.The Promised Messiah and − Mahdi received verbal revelations from God for about three decades.His as − revelations have been collected from his various works and published in book form and is known as '.Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad , the Tadhkira' as ± ± − − ± Promised Messiah and Mahdi after having a very successful life with as − respect to his spiritual mission passed away on May 26, 1908 in Lahore, India (Now Pakistan).(inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji‘un) − − − − 227

Page 228

− His body was brought from Lahore to Qadian, and his funeral prayer was led by Hadrat Maulana Nuruddin , who later on became the ra ± ± − − − first Caliph of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Promised Messiah and Mahdi left behind him a community of as − thousands, which has now swelled to millions worldwide and is carrying on with his mission.Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Editor , Amritsar, India Akhbar 'Vakeel' − − − − commenting editorially, wrote the following at the demise of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − " That person, a very great person whose pen had a magic in it and a tongue which spell-bound its hearers; that person whose brain was a combination of wonders, whose eye-sight was far reaching and whose voice was like a resurrection and whose fingers entwined in the wires of spiritual revolution, with fists like two well charged batteries; that person who for thirty years was like a spiritual earthquake and storm in the world of religion; and that person who, like a trumpet on the Last Day awakened those who were lost in the slumber of worldly life....has passed away peacefully.The demise of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad is not such that a lesson − − ± should not be learnt from it.....Such people who bring a revolution into the intellectual and religious world do not appear in the world often.Such worthy historical revolutionary figures rarely come on the world scene, and when they are deputed they bring about a memorable revolution in the world.....Whereas the greatness of Mirza Saheb is recognized, there being − serious differences in terms of certain claims and beliefs, his passing away has reminded the educated and the elite Muslims that a great man from among us has forever left this world.And with him the outstanding defense of Islam against the opponents, which was linked with his person, − has come to an end.....His peculiarity wherein he fulfilled the duty of a victorious General of Islam against its enemies compels us to openly − recognize his services for Islam.....Mirza Saheb's literature produced − − against Christians and Aryas has received general approval and acceptance, − 228

Page 229

− and in his uniqueness he stands in need of no introduction.We have to recognize from our heart the values and the greatness of such literature now that it has completed its task.....In the future, there is no hope that a person of such greatness will ever again be born in India." (Vakeel, Amritsar; Review of Religions Vol Lxxxvi, No.5, May 1991, p.38) Children of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − According to the customs of the time, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam ± ± − − Ahmad was married at an early age of sixteen, to his cousin, Hurmat Bibi.as ± ± − − From this marriage, two sons were born: Mirza Sultan Ahmad (1853-1931) − − ± and Mirza Fadal Ahmad (1855-1904).− ± ± Neither of these sons performed during the lifetime of the Bai‘at Promised Messiah and Mahdi.However, Mirza Sultan Ahmad eventually as ra − − − ± performed the at the hands of Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Bai‘at ± ± − − − ± − Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II.ra ± − − ± The first marriage of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi ended in a as − permanent separation.Around the year 1881, when he was 46 years old, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi started to receive revelations regarding as − his second marriage: "We give thee glad tidings of a noble son" "Be grateful for My bounty that you have found My Khadijah." − "I have determined to arrange another wedding for you.I shall make all the arrangements and you will not be put to any trouble." Under Divine Will, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad married a second ± ± − − ± time on November 17, 1884.He was 49 years old at the time.His second wife, Nusrat Jahan Begum, came from a noble Sayyed family of Delhi.± − 229

Page 230

− From his second wife ten children were born whose name are as follows: 1.Ismat Bibi April 15, 1886 July, 1891 ± − − 2.Bashir Ahmad August 7, 1887 November 4, 1888 − ± 3.Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad January 12, 1889 November 8, 1965 − − ± − ± 4.Shaukat Bibi 1891 1892 − − 5.Mirza Bashir Ahmad April 20, 1893 September 2, 1963 − − ± 6.Mirza Sharif Ahmad May 24, 1895 December 26, 1961 − − ± 7.Mubaraka Begum March 2, 1897 May 23, 1977 8.Mirza Mubarak Ahmad June 14, 1899 September16, 1907 − ± 9.Amtul Naseer January 28, 1903 December 3, 1903 10.Amtul Hafeez Begum June 25, 1904 May 6, 1987 Claims of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as ± ± − − ± − made the following three major claims: 1.The "Messiah" of the Christians and the "Mahdi" of the − Muslims were the same person, and that he himself was that person.2.He is the Promised Messiah and Mahdi (Guided Leader) − mentioned in the prophecies of the Holy Prophet and of sa Jesus in the Bible.as 3.Jesus of Nazareth did not die on the cross, rather he died a as natural death and would not return.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "The holy and pure revelation of God Almighty has informed me that I have been sent by Him as the Promised Messiah and the , and Mahdi − the arbiter for the internal and external differences.The names Messiah and which have been given to me; the Holy Prophet also has Mahdi sa − 230

Page 231

− mentioned me by these names.Furthermore, God Almighty through direct revelation has given me these names.Moreover, the conditions of the world in this age demanded that this must be my name.So, there are three witnesses to my names.My God who, is the Lord of the Universe (Creator and Sustainer of the Universe), I make Him as my witness and declare that I have been appointed by Him." (Arba'in, No.1, page 3) − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has further stated: as − "If I am called or by God, how can I deny it? These Nabi Rasul − − titles have been applied to me by God Himself.How can I fail to use them? Why should I fear anyone but Him? I say on oath in the name of God who has sent me, to fabricate anything in Whose name is to earn His curse -- that He has sent me after making me the Promised Messiah, that I have full faith in the manifest revelation vouchsafed to me, the truth of which has become established for me by sign after sign.My faith in it is as firm as is my faith in the verses of the Holy Qur’an.There is no difference, − not the slightest.I am ready to stand in the House of God and declare on oath that God Who speaks to me is the same God Who spoke to Moses, to Jesus and to the Holy Prophet Muhammad , the Elect.Earthly signs have sa ± witnessed to my truth as well as Heavenly signs.Heaven has witnessed for me, as the Earth.Both have declared that I am the Promised Vicegerent.I was to be rejected also, according to the prophecies.Those whose hearts are shrouded by prejudice do not accept.But I know God will help me the way He has always helped His Messengers.My opponents shall fail.They have not the help of God.Remember wherever I have denied being a Prophet I (Nabuwwat) have denied it in the sense that I am neither an independent bearer of a Law or , nor am I an independent Prophet, a Prophet in my own Shari‘ah − right.But in the sense that I have received spiritual grace from my Mentor and Master, my , that I have been awarded his name and have been Rasul − gifted with knowledge of the unseen through him, and because of him, I am a and but without a.Rasul Nabi Shari‘ah − − − 231

Page 232

− Being a in this sense I have never denied.In this sense God Nabi − has called me a or So in this sense I do not deny being a Nabi Rasul.Nabi − − − or." Rasul − (A Misunderstanding Removed, The Promised Messiah and Mahdi ) as − Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "Through revelation it has been made fully clear to me by God Almighty that the Messiah which was destined to come for this Ummah right from the beginning, and that last who at the time of Mahdi − deterioration of Islam and the spread of the falsehood, has been directly − guided by God Almighty and who is to present the Heavenly food (The Holy Qur’an) in a new fashion to the humanity, and about whom the Holy − Prophet had foretold 1300 years ago, I am that person." sa (Tadhkaratush Shahadatain, p 473) ± − Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes that the gist of our as − faith is: ¼»A ¾Ìmi fÀZ¿ ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü É ê Õ å æ å ì Ñ ì ä å å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä Ø la ilaha illallahu muhammadur rasulullah − − − ± − − There is none worthy of worship but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of − ± Allah − Our belief, which we hold in this life here on earth and to which we will continue to adhere firmly till the time that we pass on to the next world, is that our spiritual leader and master, Muhammad is the Seal of sa ± the Prophets and the Best of the Messengers.At his hands religion has been perfected and blessings of Allah have been consummated which lead − man to the right path and further on to God Himself.We hold this positive belief with absolute certainty that the Holy Qur’an is the seal of all Divine − books and not an iota can be added to or subtracted from its prescribed 232

Page 233

− teachings, inhibitions, commands and injunctions.There will be no revelation or word from God which may amend or abrogate or change or alter any of the injunctions of the Holy Qur’an.If anyone subscribes to − such views, in our opinion, he ceases to belong to the body of believers and becomes an infidel thereby." (Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol.3: Izala-i-Auham, p 170) − − − − − − The Mission of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − The mission of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi has been told by as − the Holy Prophet : sa ÕÜÌÇ Å¿ ¾BUi ËA ½Ui É» BÄ» BÍjR»BI B´¼¨¿ ÆBÀÍ A ÆB· Ì» ( j ê ä Ø Û Ð Ø æ êé Ñ ä ê æ ä Ñ å ä ä ää ì ä í ê í ì ä å å ä æ ê ä ä æ ä lau kanal ’imanu mu‘allaqan biththurayya lana lahu rajulun − − − − − au rijalummin ha’ula’i − − − "He would restore faith back to the earth even if it had ascended to the Pleiades" i.e.He would re-establish faith by means of Heavenly signs." (Bukhari Kitabuttafsir Surah Al-Jumu'ah wa Muslim) − − − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has stated his mission that he as − has come to do the following: i.Establish pure Unity of God free from all polytheistic ideas.ii.Strengthen relationship between man and his Creator.iii.Establish virtue and righteousness.iv.Create faith in God by demonstrating power of God by Heavenly signs.v.Lead man out of the darkness of doubt and disbelief into the light of faith and certainty..vi.End war and violence and usher an Era of universal peace vii.Unify the mankind under the banner of Islam.− 233

Page 234

− viii.Purify Islam of extraneous errors and to present and − propagate a true picture of Islam.− The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about his mission: as − "The purpose for which God has appointed me is that I should remove the malaise that afflicts the relationship between God and His creatures, and should restore the relationship of love and sincerity between them.Through the proclamation of truth I should bring about peace by putting an end to religious wars and should manifest the verities which have become hidden from the eyes of the world.I am called upon to demonstrate that spirituality, which has been overlaid by selfish darkness.It is for me to demonstrate in practice and not only in words, the Divine attributes which penetrate into the hearts of people and are manifested through prayer and concentration.Most of all it is my purpose to plant once more in the hearts of people the pure and shining unity of God which is free from every suspicion of paganism and which has completely disappeared.All this will be accomplished not through my power, but through the Power of Him Who is the God of Heaven and earth." (Lecture Lahore, p 47) "God has sent me into the world so that through gentleness, kindness and meekness, I should draw towards God and His Holy Guidance such people as are involved in error, and should make them tread along the path of righteousness to the light which has been bestowed upon me.Man stands in need of such reasoning as would convince him that God exists, inasmuch as a great part of the world is being driven to ruin for lack of faith in the existence of God Almighty and His revealed Guidance.There is no clearer and easier way of believing in the existence of God that He reveals to His special servants that which is hidden and will come to pass in the future.He discloses to those who are close to Him the hidden secrets, which are beyond the power of human intellect and faculties to discover.There is no way for man to be enlightened through his own efforts about the secrets of the future, which are beyond the reach of human faculties, especially those matters which are related to existence, Divine power and command.234

Page 235

− God, of His own beneficence, has chosen me out of the whole world so that through manifestations of His Signs, He should bring back to the right path those who have gone astray." (Taryaqul Qulub, p 13) − − Status of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − Many traditions of the Holy Prophet have stated the status of the sa Promised Messiah and Mahdi.One of the traditions is as follows: as.− ɼ»A Ұμa ÉÃB¯ W¼R»AÓ¼§ AÌJY Ì»Ë Ę̂ÍBJ¯ ÊÌÀNÍAi AgB¯ ( ê Õ å ä æ ê ä ì ê ä ê æì ä ä í æ ä æ ä ä å æ å ê ä ä å æ å å æ Ú ä ä ê ä ÔfÈÀ»A í ê æ ä æ fa idha ra aitumuhu faba yi‘uhu wa lau habwan ‘alaththalji fa ’ − − − − ± innahu khalifatulla hilmahdi − − − − When you hear the advent of , it is then enjoined on you to enter Mahdi − his even if you have to walk on snow by crawling and creeping to Bai at ‘ reach him, for indeed he is Khalifatullah Mahdi.− − − (Kanzul Ummal., Also footnotes to Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol.6, ± ± p 29-30; Abu Da’ud Vol.2, Bab Khurujul Mahdi) − − − − − Other traditions of the Holy Prophet are: sa ÂÝn»A ÓÄ¿ É j´Î¼¯ r ä ä ì é ê ê å Ù ä æ ä æ ä fal yaqra’hu minnissalam − The one who recognizes the Promised , he should convey my Mahdi − 235

Page 236

− Salam' to him.− (Durr-i-Manthur, Vol.2, p 445) − Ę̂JM B¯ ɼ»A Ұμa ÔfÈÀ»A AhÇ ÔeBÄÍ ¹¼¿ Ém Ai Ó¼§ Ë å æ å êì ä ê Õ å ä æ ê ä í ê æ ä æ ä Ð æ ê ä í Ñ ä ä × ê Ù ä Ð ä ä wa ‘ala ra’sihi malakuñyyunadi hadhal mahdiyyu − − − − − khalifatullahi fattabi‘u hu − − − Angels of God will work in support of Mahdi and through God's − revelations will encourage people to join the followers of the Mahdi − (Yanabi 'almuwwadat, p 447) − − ÒμÇBV»A ONο PB¿ f´¯ ÉÃB¿k ÂB¿A ²j¨Í Á» Ë PB¿ Å¿ ä ì ê ê ä æ ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä ä × ê ä ä ä ä ê æ ê æ ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ä man mata wa lam ya‘rif imama zamanihi faqad mata maitatal − − − − − jahiliyyata − He who dies in a condition that he has not recognized the of the Imam − Age dies a death of ignorance (Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal Vol.4, p 96; Baharul Anwar, Vol.13) ± ± − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has described ten distinctive as − favors which God has bestowed upon him: 1.God has bestowed upon me the understanding of the Qur’an.− 2.God has taught me the language of the Qur’an in a − miraculous manner.3.God accepts my prayers more than of any other person.4.God has supported me with Heavenly signs.236

Page 237

− 5.God has bestowed upon me signs from the earth.6.God has promised me that I shall triumph over everyone who comes forward to oppose me.7.God has given me the good tidings that my followers will always triumph over others through their reasoning in support of the truth, and that they and their progeny will be greatly honored in the world, so that they should see that he who comes to God never suffers a loss.8.God has promised me that till the Day of Judgment, He will continue to manifest my blessings, so much so, that kings will seek blessings from my garments.9.Twenty years ago, God informed me, that I would be denied and that people would not accept me, but that God would accept me and would manifest my truth through powerful assaults.10.God has promised me that for the purpose of repeating the light of my blessings, a person will be raised from among my progeny into whom God will breath the blessings of the Holy Spirit.He will be characterized by inner purity and will have a close relationship with God.He will be a manifestation of the True and High, as if God had descended from Heaven.(Tohfa Golarviyyah, p 90) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes: as.− "I declare in the Name of God Almighty who holds my life in His hands that He has appointed me, and He has named me as a , and 'Prophet' he has addressed me by the name of , and in my support 'Promised Messiah' He has shown glorious signs which reach to 300,000 in number." (Tatamm‘a Haqiqatul Wahi, p.68) ± − − 237

Page 238

− Heavenly Signs in Support of Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − The Heavenly signs shown by God in the support of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi are most remarkable and the majority of them were as − the fulfillment of his prophecies contained in Divine revelations granted to him.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi began to receive revelation in as − 1876, and as time passed, his experience of revelation multiplied progressively.Everyone of his revelation was clearly fulfilled according to its tenor at its due time; some of them that related to future events have been fulfilled from time to time since his death and some await fulfillment.He was granted progress and victory in the face of severe opposition and heavy odds.His enemies were humiliated and were unsuccessful.He won all the lawsuits filed against him, as was foretold.His wicked enemies were victims of Divine punishment as a result of his prayers.He has given many instances of acceptance of his prayers for his friends in most unexpected circumstances.Some signs are the incidents where many sick persons close to death and suffering from incurable diseases recovered as a result of his prayers.In some of the signs God showed natural catastrophes in his support.Some signs are related to challenges of (prayer contest) to his opponents.Whosoever Mubahilah − accepted such a challenge died or met with a dire fate.The most remarkable and dramatic fact about his signs is that he foretold the results by quoting his revelations which were frequently published or made known beforehand to hundreds or thousands people.He challenged his opponents, both Muslim and non-Muslims, to compete with him in showing such signs of Divine support.No one had the courage to accept the challenge.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi claimed that his signs as − were the result of blessings of the Holy Prophet.They were in fact sa continuing miracles of the Holy Prophet.He was merely his servant sa whose mission was to uphold his honor in this age.The revelations granted to him and the signs shown by him are irrefutable proof of his truth and prove that Islam is a true and living religion.Thus Hadrat Mirza − ± ± − 238

Page 239

− Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi gave fresh and living as − ± − proof of the existence of Almighty God and challenged the unbelievers and atheists of the modern age.(The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, p 28) − ± 1.The Eclipses of the Sun and the Moon The Holy Prophet had announced a very clear and definite sa sign of the appearance of the which was not in the power of Mahdi − anyone to manufacture or improvise., an eminent and Darqutni − ± − recognized authority on , had recorded that the Holy Hadith ± − Prophet said: sa ~iÜAË PÌÀn»A μ¼a hÄ¿ BÃ̸M Á» ÅÎNÍA BÄÍfÈÀ» ÆA ê æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì ê æ ä å æ å ä æ å ä æ ä ê æä ä Ð ä é ê ê æ ä ê ì ê Ó¯ oÀr»A ±n¸ÄM Ë ÆBz¿i Å¿ Ҽλ ¾ËÜ jÀ´»A ±n¸ÄM ê å æ ì æ å ê ä æä ä ä ä ä ä æ ê î ä æ ä ê ì ê ä å ä ä æ å ê ä æä - ~iÜAË PÌÀn»A ɼ»A μ¼a hÄ¿ BÃ̸M Á» Ë ÉÄ¿ ±vÄ»A ä æ æ ä ä ê Ð Ð ì å Õ ä ä ä å æ å ä æ å ä æ ä ä å æ ê ê æ ê é inna limahdiyyina ayataini lam takuna mundhu − − − − khalqissamawati wal ardi tankasiful qamaru li awwali lailatin − − ± min ramadana wa tankasifushshamsu finnisfi minhu wa lam ± − ± takuna mundhu khalqalla hussamawati wal ard.− − − − ± For our there are appointed two signs which have never been Mahdi − manifested for any other claimant since the creation of the Heavens and the earth.They are that at his advent there shall occur an eclipse of the moon on the first of (Its appointed nights), and an eclipse of the sun on the middle one of (Its appointed days) and both will occur in the same month of.Ramadan ± − (Sunan Dar Qutni vol 2, p 65, Bab Safatus-Salatulkhusuf) − ± − − ± ± ± − ± − 239

Page 240

− In this four conditions have been stated, which if Hadith ± − fulfilled will become a sign of the truth of the : Imam Mahdi − − The eclipses of the moon and the sun occur according to the set laws of nature as related to astronomy.According to these laws, if Calendar is used, the dates on which a lunar eclipse can Hijrah occur are the 13 , 14 or 15 nights of the lunar month.And the th th th dates on which a solar eclipse can occur are the 27 , 28 or 29 th th th of the lunar month.The sign mentioned by the Holy Prophet , sa therefore, was that the moon would be eclipsed on the 13 night of th the lunar month, and the eclipse of the sun would take place on the 28 of the same month, which will be the month of.The th Ramadan ± − sign was to appear after and not before the advent of the.Mahdi − Some have objected that the lunar eclipse should have occurred on the first night of.They ignore the laws of Ramadan ± − astronomy and the established movements of celestial bodies.Furthermore, the Arabic word for moon used in the above stated Hadith Qamar is , which is used for the moon on the fourth lunar ± − night and onward; whereas, the moon of the first three nights is called in Arabic.Hilal − The above stated does not mean to say that the lunar Hadith ± − and solar eclipses have never occurred in the month of Ramadan ± − before.In fact, according to astronomers they have occurred many times in the month of since the time of the Holy Ramadan ± − Prophet.The crucial point is that there would be a claimant of sa being at that time and he will proclaim this occurrence to be Mahdi − a sign for him.This is exactly what happened.Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad founded the Ahmadiyya ± ± − − ± ± Movement in Islam in 1889, and announced his claim of being the − Reformer of the age.Later on, in 1891, under Divine guidance he claimed to be the Promised Messiah mentioned in the prophecies of the Holy Prophet , and Jesus in Bible.The sign of eclipses of the sa as moon and the sun in the month of was shown in 1894.An Ramadan ± − 240

Page 241

− eclipse of the moon occurred on Thursday night, the 13 of th Ramadan Hijrah st , 1311 (21 March, 1894), and the eclipse of the ± − sun occurred on the 28 of the same month of (6 April, th Ramadan th ± − 1894), in exact accord with the prophecy of the Holy Prophet.sa Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad proclaimed the eclipses in Ramadan ± ± − − ± ± − of 1894 to be a great sign in his favor.There have been many claimants of being in Islamic history, but this sign was never Mahdi − − shown for any one of them.This sign about the is found in Mahdi − the books of collected by both Shi‘ah and Sunni sects.A Hadith ± − − great many of Islamic religious books mention this prophecy about − the expected.Mahdi − (The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, pp 77-78) − ± These eclipses were visible over a large part of Asia including India.The same phenomenon was repeated in the United States of America in 1895.( The Story of Eclipses, George F.Chambers, p 33, London, 1902) The sign of the eclipses was beyond the power of any person to show.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi considered this as − sign of the eclipses to be very significant and said that with this sign, the foundation of the victory of Islam had been laid.He also − said that mosques will be built and people will join Islam in hordes.− The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has written about this sign in as − many of his books.He writes: "And I also swear by God Almighty that I am the Promised Messiah and I am the same person who was promised by the Prophets.There is news about me and my age in the Torah, the Gospels, and the Holy Qur’an.It is stated that there will be eclipses − in the sky and severe plague on the earth." (Da'fiul Bala’, p 18) − − 241

Page 242

− 2.Extraordinary and Miraculous Knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and Arabic Language − Arabic is the language of the Holy Qur’an.For perfect − understanding and propagation of Qur’an, adequate knowledge of − Arabic is essential.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi had no as − formal education of Arabic in any school.To begin with his knowledge of this language was elementary.However, after God selected him as a reformer -- a and Messiah, he was blessed Mahdi − with extraordinary and miraculous knowledge of Arabic.He claimed that Allah invested him with knowledge of forty thousand − important words of Arabic through Divine revelation in a single night.This was no empty boast.Subsequently he wrote a score of books in Arabic including, , , and 'Karamatus-Sadiqin Nurul Haq − ± ± − − − ± Khutbah Ilhamiyya' and challenged Muslim religious scholars of ± − India and Arabia to compete with him in producing religious literature in Arabic of equal literary excellence and richness in meaning.None among his opponents dared to take up the challenge and they were all silenced.He claimed that Allah the Gracious has − blessed him with extraordinary and miraculous knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and Arabic language.He also challenged his − opponents to compete with him in writing commentary in Arabic of any selected verses of the Holy Qur’an.Scholars from Arabic − countries were also invited.No one dared to accept the challenge.The unique excellence of his Arabic prose and poetry is admitted by recognized authorities of Arabic language.This was a great intellectual miracle shown by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as.− (The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, p 30) − ± 242

Page 243

− Fulfillment of the Prophecies of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − Few examples of the prophecies of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , which were announced beforehand by him and were fulfilled as − beautifully, are presented here: The Prophecy Concerning Birth of a Son One of the prophecies revealed to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi by God Almighty was that He would bestow on him a as.− son who would be a sign of Allah's Mercy, Power, Grace and − Beneficence, and through whom the message of Islam and − Ahmadiyyat would be carried to the ends of the earth.This ± prophecy was fulfilled in the person of Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin ± ± − − − Mahmud Ahmad , his eldest son from his second wife, Hadrat ra ± − ± ± ± Nusrat Jahan , who became the second on March 14, ra.Khalifah ± − − 1914 at the age of 25.Therefore, he was also known as Hadrat ± ± Musleh Ma‘ud, the Promised Reformer.The background of the ± ± − prophecy is as follows: In 1885, some Hindus of Qadian wrote a letter to Hadrat ± ± Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi asking as.− − ± − for a sign to be shown to them within a year, between September 1885 and September 1886.He replied to their letter in affirmative.Hadrat Ahmad undertook to spend 40 days in a solitary ± ± ± retreat in January 1886 in Hoshiarpur, spending all his time in Divine worship and supplication.At the end of this period, he was granted the glad tidings of an illustrious son to be born within nine years.He published a handbill on February 20, 1886 from Hoshiarpur, detailing the revelation from God in the form of a 243

Page 244

− prophecy.The exact words of the prophecy which has been fulfilled word by word in the person of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ± ± − − ± are as follows: "God the Merciful, the Noble, the High, the Exalted, who has power to do all that He Wills (Glory be to Him and exalted be His name), has vouchsafed to me the following revelation: I confer upon thee a Sign of My mercy according to thy supplications.I have heard thy entreaties and have honored thy prayers with My acceptance through My mercy and have blessed this thy journey.A sign of power, mercy, nearness to me is bestowed on thee and thou art granted the key of success and victory.Peace be on thee, O victorious one.Thus does God speak so that those who desire life may be rescued from the grip of death, and those who are buried in the graves may emerge therefrom, and so that the superiority of Islam and the dignity of God's word may − become manifest unto the people, and so that truth may arrive with all the blessings and falsehood may depart with all its ills, and so that people may understand that I am the Lord of Power, I do whatever I Will, and so that they may believe that I am with thee, and so that those who do not believe in God and deny and reject His religion and His Book and His Holy messenger Muhammad , sa ± the Chosen One, may be confronted with a clear sign and the way of the guilty ones may become manifest."Rejoice, therefore, that a handsome and pure boy will be bestowed on thee.Thou will receive a bright youth who will be of thy seed and will be of thy progeny.A handsome and pure boy will come as your guest.His name is Emmanuel and Bashir.He has − been invested with a holy spirit and he will be free from all impurity.He is the light of Allah.Blessed is he who comes from − Heaven.He will be accompanied by grace which shall arrive with him.He will be characterized with grandeur, greatness and wealth.He will come into the world and will heal many of their disorder through his Messianic qualities and through the blessings of the Holy Spirit.He is the Word of Allah for Allah's mercy and honor − − have equipped him with the word of Majesty.244

Page 245

− He will be extremely intelligent and understanding and will be meek of heart and will be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge.He will convert three into four (of this the meaning is not clear).It is Monday, a blessed Monday.Son, delight of heart, Å¿ ¾là ɼ»A ÆB· Õݨ»AË μZ»A jȤ¿ jaÜAË ¾ËÜA jȤ¿ ä ê ä ä ä ä Õ ì ä ä ê ä Ø ä æ ä é ê ä æ å ä æ ä ê ê æ Ð ä ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä ÕBÀn»A ê Ø ä ì mazharul awwali wal akhari mazharul haqqi wal ala-i ka ‘ ± − ± ± − annallaha nazala mi nassama-i − − high ranking, noble; a manifestation of the First and the Last, a manifestation of the True and the High; as if Allah has descended − from Heaven.His advent will be greatly blessed and will be a source of manifestation of Divine Majesty.Behold, a light cometh, a light anointed by God with the perfume of His pleasure.We shall pour Our spirit into him and he will be sheltered under the shadow of God.He will grow rapidly in stature and will be the means of procuring the release of those held in bondage.His fame will spread to the ends of the earth and peoples will be blessed through him.He will then be raised to his spiritual station in Heaven.This is a matter decreed, BÎz´¿ Aj¿A ÆB· Ë (wa kana amran maqdiyya)." ì ê æ ä í æ ä ä ä ä − ± (19:22) The words beginning with: A handsome and pure boy; and ending with: He who comes from Heaven; indicate a short life, for a guest is one who stays for a few days and then departs before one's eyes.The succeeding sentence refers to the Promised Reformer who was named in the revelation.Fadl ± (Green announcement p 21 footnote, Tabligh Risalat Vol.I, p 141; − − Tadhkira (English Translation), Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, pp 85-86) ± ± − The prophecy was published on February 20, 1886 in the 245

Page 246

− form of a leaflet on ordinary papers.Later on, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi printed another leaflet on March 22, 1886 in as − which he mentioned, on the basis of Divine revelation, that the promised son will be born within a period of nine years.What happened afterwards was that instead of a son, the first child born after the prophecy was a daughter.Ignorant people ridiculed this.Later, a son was born on August 17, 1887 but he died on November 4, 1888.He was named Bashir Ahmad and has − ± become known as Bashir Awwal (Bashir, the first).At the death of − − this son once again the opponents raised a lot of hue and cry and strongly criticized the truth of this prophecy and rejected it all together.At this point, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote a as − small leaflet on December 1, 1888 in which he explained the true meaning of the prophecy and declared very emphatically that come what may, the Promised son will be born within the stipulated period of nine years from the date of its first pronouncement, i.e., February 20, 1886.This leaflet which reiterated the glad tidings of the birth if the promised son, was printed on green papers and was most appropriately named and is generally known as " " Sabz Ishtihar − (Green leaflet).According to the original prophecy, by the grace of Allah, − the Promised Messiah and Mahdi was blessed with a son on the as − 12th of January 1889 about whom he was told by Allah that this − was the promised son.Thus, the prophecy was fulfilled most magnificently.(Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Imam, London Mosque, The Ahmadiyya − ± Gazette, February, 2002, p 6) In 1944, God manifestly revealed to the Hadrat Khalifatul ± ± − Masih II that he was the (Promised Reformer).At ra Musleh Ma‘ud − ± ± ± − 246

Page 247

− that time he openly declared that he was the promised illustrious son of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi mentioned in the as − prophecy.Hudur made this announcement on 20 February 1944 th ± ± − at Hoshiarpur before a large gathering in the following words: "Under the Divine command, I swear by God and announce that He has nominated me as the Promised Son according to the prophecy, who is to convey his (Promised Messiah) name to the corners of the earth.I do not say that I am the only Promised one and no other Promised one will come till Doomsday.From the prophecy, it seems that some other Promised one will also come.Some of them may come even after centuries.Rather God has intimated me that He will send me again to this world in some later age and I shall come again in times of polytheism.This means that my spirit shall be given to some other person who will be possessing faculties like me.He will do the job of reformation of the world by following in my footsteps.Therefore, those who are to come will come according to the Divine promises in their own times.What I say is that the prophecy has been fulfilled in my person that was given to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in the as − house in front of me in this city of which he announced Hoshiarpur in this very town and about whom he said that he will be born within nine years.Now there will be no one else to claim truthfully the fulfillment of this prophecy." (Al-Fadl, 19th February, 1960) ± Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra was a genius and possessed a dynamic ± ± ± ± − personality.He was the image of his great father.His period of Khilafat − lasted 52 years.This became the glorious period in the history of the Jama'at.Membership increased vastly, numerous missions and mosques − were established in various foreign countries with his efforts and administrative ability.When storms of persecution arose as a result of bigotry and fanaticism, his forbearance and prayers steered the community out of dangers.He fulfilled every aspect of the great prophecy by the Promised 247

Page 248

− Messiah and Mahdi.How could one have predicted about such a son as − without knowledge from God? Even when a son was born how could one have known that he will reach adulthood in a land of epidemics and fanatics and that he will possess so many great qualities and achieve so much success.Fulfillment of this prophecy is an irrefutable proof of the truth of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Prophecy Regarding Pundit Lekh Ram − Pundit Lekh Ram was a leader of Arya Samaj in India.Arya − − − − Samaj was a highly militant and dogmatic sect of Hinduism which − fiercely attacked both Islam and Christianity because they were − attracting too many converts, especially from the lower castes.Pundit Lekh Ram was a persistent enemy of Islam and always used − − the foulest language in attacking the character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.Many a times the Promised Messiah and Mahdi did sa as ± − his best to stop him without success.He arrogantly wrote to the Promised Messiah that as far as he was concerned, the Promised Messiah has full freedom to publish whatever prophecy he liked against him, he could not care less.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi turned to his God and received the revelation: as − LAh§ Ë Kvà ɻ ,iAÌa É» fnU ½V§ ( ( Ñ ä ä ì Ñ ä ä ä Ñ ä å ì Ñ ä ä Ñ æ ê ‘ijlun jasadullahu khuwarun lahu nasabuñwwa 'adhabun − − − ± − A miserable half-dead calf; nothing awaits it but disgrace and destruction.( Karamatus-Sadiqin) − ± ± − − On February 20, 1893, the promised Messiah and Mahdi as − made the following announcement: "Within six years from today, this man will be overtaken bysevere torment as a punishment for the disrespect which he has 248

Page 249

− shown towards the Holy Prophet." sa (Announcement of February 20, 1893, attached to A’ina Kamalat-i-Islam) − − − − Declaring his prophecy and this revelation, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote (addressing all religious parties): 'If as − within six years from today, February 20, 1893, this man does not meet with punishment from God, which is unusual in its poignancy and tragedy and which impresses all and sundry with the fear of the Lord, then let everybody think that I am not from God.' (Majmu‘a-i-Ishtiharat, Vol.1, p 373; Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, London − − − ± Mosque, London, UK, 1980, p 259) Some people criticized the prophecy and said it was mere conjecture and anything could happen in six years.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi replied that prophecy will be fulfilled in an as − extraordinary way.Lekh Ram ridiculed the prophecy and announced that − Hadrat Hadrat Ahmad would die of cholera within three years.± ± ± ± ± Ahmad wrote in April 1893 about a vision he had: ± "This morning in the course of a light slumber I saw that I was sitting in a large room where some of my friends were present when a well-built man of terrible appearance, as if blood would burst forth from his face, came and stood before me.When I raised my eyes towards him I perceived that he was person of strange build and character, as if he was not a man but was one of the severe terrible angels who overawe all hearts.As I looked at him he asked me: 'Where is Lekh Ram?' and he also named another − person and inquired where he was.Then I understood that this one had been appointed for the chastisement of Lekh Ram and the other − person...." (Ahmadiyyat: The Renaissance of Islam, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, ± − ± ± − Tabshir Publications, 1978, p 75) − 249

Page 250

− In a Persian poem, Hadrat Ahmad referred to Pandit Lekh ± ± ± Ram as follows: − "Beware O' foolish and misled enemy.Fear the cutting sword of Muhammad " sa ± (Announcement of February 2, 1893, An attachment to A’ina − − Kamalat-i-Islam; Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol.12, p 123) − − − − − − In an Arabic poem in his book the "Karamatus-Sadiqin" − ± ± − − Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote that God had revealed to him as − that a mighty prophecy was to be fulfilled on a day next to an ‘Id − Festival.This prophecy was fulfilled in a remarkable way on March 6, 1897.Lekh Ram was murdered in his well guarded house in − Lahore.It is said that the murderer was a fierce looking man who had come to him as a seeker after truth and had stayed with him for some time.He stabbed him with a dagger and then disappeared.The murderer was never found.It happened on a Saturday, next to the Muslim Festival of on Friday.Lekh Ram's death caused a ‘Id − − great uproar.It was alleged that the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − must have conspired this murder to fulfill his prophecy.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi dismissed the accusation saying that as − it was God who had ordained it, as He had revealed to him.It was a victory for Islam and had proved the truth of word of God.− A Hindu secret society was formed and a reward was offered for the person who would murder the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.But Allah protected the Promised Messiah and as − − Mahdi from his enemies, throughout his life, as he had revealed in as − the very beginning.(The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, p 115-116) − ± What Pundit Lekh Ram had prophesied did not, of course, − come to pass.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi did not die within as − the specified period and his children did indeed survive.A great 250

Page 251

− sign was thus delivered to mankind within the stipulated time and in circumstances as foretold and was testified as such by no less than three thousand witnesses, Hindus and Muslims alike.Dire End of Alexander Dowie of Zion, USA: A Historical Prayer Duel John Alexander Dowie was by birth a Scotsman.He was born in Edinburgh in 1847 and studied for the Church in his early years.In 1872, he went to Australia as a cleric and acquired a certain degree of reputation for healing.In 1888 he came to the United States of America and started the publication of a paper called.In 1896 he founded the Christian Leaves of Healing Catholic sect.In 1901 he started building a town in the State of Illinois which he called Zion City.He established many factories within the area of the town and became in effect the uncrowned king of Zion City.In the same year he claimed to be Elijah or the forerunner of the second coming of Jesus Christ.Dowie was a bitter enemy of Islam and hurled vile abuse at − Islam and its Prophet and proclaimed his mission to destroy Islam − − before the coming of Christ.From the far distant land of India, and from a little known and inaccessible town of Qadian, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad as ± ± − − ± took note of his tall talk.He wrote to Mr.Dowie about his claim as the promised Messiah and challenged him to a prayer contest that each of them should pray to God that of the two, whoever was impostor be punished and destroyed by God in the life time of the other.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote: as − "As regards the Muslims, we wish to point out respectfully to Mr.Dowie that there is no need for the fulfillment of his purpose to subject millions of Muslims to destruction.There is a very easy 251

Page 252

− way of determining whether Dowie's God is true or our God.That way is that Mr.Dowie should keep me alone in his mind and should pray that of two of us, the one who is false may die before the other....The method I propose is that Mr.Dowie should come into the field against me with the permission of his false god.I am an old man of more than 66 years of age; I suffer from diabetes, dysentery, migraine and deficiency of blood.I realize, however, that my life depends not upon the condition of my health but upon the command of my God.If the false god of Mr.Dowie possesses any power he will certainly permit him to come forth against me." (Review of Religions, Urdu, Vol.1, No.9, pp 342-48) − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further wrote To Mr.as − Dowie in 1902: " It should be remembered that I am not just an average citizen of this country (India).I am the Promised Messiah who is being awaited by Mr.Dowie.The only difference is that Mr.Dowie says that the Promised Messiah will appear within 25 years and I proclaim that he has appeared already and I am that person....If instead of the destruction of all Muslims, Mr.Dowie's purpose can be served by my death alone, he will have established a great sign, in consequence of which millions of people will acknowledge the son of Mary as god and will also believe in Dowie as his apostle." (Review of Religions, Urdu, Vol.1, No.9, pp 342-48) − When Mr.Dowie did not reply and remained silent, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi made the statement: as − "Though he may try as hard as he can to fly from death which awaits him, yet his flight from such a contest will be nothing less than death to him; and calamity will certainly overtake his Zion, for he must bear the consequences either of the acceptance of the challenge or its refusal." 252

Page 253

− This challenge was widely published in the American Press.The challenge was issued in 1902 and repeated in 1903.When Mr.Dowie paid no attention to it, he was hard pressed by American papers.Finally, Mr.Dowie announced in his paper, Leaves of Healing of December 1903."In India, there is a Mohammadan Messiah who keeps on ± writing to me that Jesus Christ lies buried in Kashmir.People ask me why do I not send him the necessary reply? Do you think that I should answer such gnats and flies? If I were to put my foot on them, I would crush them to death.The fact is that I merely gave them a chance to fly away and survive." Finally, the prophecy was fulfilled.Rebellion broke out against Mr.Dowie in Zion.His wife and son deserted him and he was charged with many illicit and immoral practices.He was finally expelled from Zion and reduced to a miserable allowance.On February 20, 1907 the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − issued another handbill announcing the appearance of another Heavenly sign.The handbill said: "God Says: I shall manifest a fresh sign of great victory.This sign will be for the whole world and will be wrought by God's hands from Heaven.Let every eye wait for it, for God will manifest it soon..., so that everyone might bear witness that this humble one, who is being reviled from all directions, is from Him.Blessed are those who would take advantage of it." (Announcement of February 20, 1907, Inner Title page of the pamphlet: Qadian ke Arya aur Hum; Tadhkirah,English Translation, − Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, pp 386-387) ± ± − Within a fortnight of publication of this handbill came the death of John Alexander Dowie.In 1905 Mr.Dowie suffered a stroke and was paralyzed.On March 9, 1907 he died in misery and pain.253

Page 254

− Death of Mr.Dowie and fulfillment of Promised Messiah and Mahdi's prophecy was widely commented in American press.as − A few samples are given: The Dunville Gazette of June 7, 1907 wrote: "Ahmad and his adherents may be pardoned from taking ± some credit for the accuracy with which the prophecy was fulfilled a few months ago." The Truth Seeker of June 15, 1907 wrote: "The Qadian Man predicted that if Dowie accepted the challenge, he would leave the world before his eyes with great sorrow and torment.If Dowie declined, the Mirza said, the end − only would be deferred; death awaited him just the same and calamity would soon overtake Zion.That was the grand prophecy: Zion would fall and Dowie would die before Ahmad." ± Boston Herald of June 23, 1907 published a large photograph of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi with the caption, as − 'Great is Mirza Ghulam Ahmad' and wrote: − − ± "Dowie died with his hands fallen away from him and his fortune dwindled.He suffered from paralysis and insanity.He died a miserable death with Zion City torn and frayed by internal dissension.Mirza Ghulam Ahmad comes forward frankly and states − − ± that he has won his challenge." The Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote: as − "My mission was to break the cross.With Dowie's death, therefore, a major proportion of that aim has been accomplished.In the whole world Dowie was the principal exponent of the cross who had claimed to be a prophet through whose prayers all Muslims would be destroyed, Islam was to be effaced, and the − Ka‘bah was to be demolished.God, therefore, destroyed him 254

Page 255

− through me and I know for certain that the prophecy concerning thedestruction of the swine has been manifestly fulfilled.I swear by God that he was the swine whose destruction had been prophesied by the Holy Prophet , to take place at the hands of the Messiah.sa Had I not have challenged him to , nor invoked prayers Mubahilah − against him or published his destruction, his death would have been of little significance for Islam.However, since I had already − published in the newspapers that he would die in my lifetime.I have proved myself to be the Messiah and he an imposter.There can be no great miracle than the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Holy Prophet of Islam , which only an enemy of truth can deny." sa − (Addendum to Haqiqatul Wahi, pp 77-80) ± − − Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was comparatively an as ± ± − − ± unknown figure in the United States, yet his brave challenge to John Alexander Dowie evoked worldwide publicity and the text of his challenge was extensively published in various world Newspapers, such as: 1.* The Argonout, San Francisco December 1, 1902 2.* New York Times March 29, 1903 3.* The Literary Digest June 20, 1903 (Vol.XXVI, No.25) 4.The Buffalo times June 25, 1903 5.The New York Mail & Express June 25, 1903 6.The Herald, Rochester June 25, 1903 7.* Baltimore American June 25, 1903 8.* The Daily Advertiser, Boston June 25, 1903 9.* Democrat and Chronicle June 25, 1903 10.The Democratic Chronicle, Rochester June 25, 1903 11.* The Albany Express June 25, 1903 12.The Record, Boston June 27, 1903 13.Desert English June 27, 1903 14.* The Pilot, Boston June 27, 1903 15.The Pathfinder, Washington June 27, 1903 16.The Detroit English News June 27, 1903 17.* The Inter Ocean, Chicago June 27, 1903 18.* The Burlington Daily Free Press June 27, 1903 (Vermont) 19.New York Mail and Express June 28, 1903 20.* The Inter Ocean, Chicago June 28, 1903 21.* The Sunday Times-Union, Jacksonville June 28, 1903 255

Page 256

− 22.* Worcester Sunday Spy June 28, 1903 Massachusetts 23.The Baltimore American June 28, 1903 24.Suanna News June 29, 1903 25.* Montana Daily Record July 1, 1903 26.Helena Record July 1, 1903 27.The Richmond News July 1, 1903 28.The Houston Chronicle July 3, 1903 29.The Telegraph July 5, 1903 30.The Groomshire Gazette July 17, 1903 31.Newton Chronicle July 17, 1903 32.Chicago Interpreter July 28, 1903 33.The New York Times October 17, 1903 34.* The New York Times October 18, 1903 35.* The New York Times October 19, 1903 36.* The New York Times October 20, 1903 37.* The New York Times October 21, 1903 38.* The New York Times October 22, 1903 39.* The New York Times October 24, 1903 40.* The New York Times October 25, 1903 41.* The Commercial Advertiser, NY October 26, 1903 42.Glasgow Herald October 27, 1903 43.Morning Telegraph, New York October 28, 1903 44.* The Times, London November 9, 1903 45.* New York Daily Tribune April 2, 1906 46.* New York Daily Tribune April 3, 1906 47.* New York Daily Tribune April 5, 1906 48.* The Outlook - The Week April 14, 1906 49.* Chicago Evening American March 9, 1907 50.* The Chicago Tribune March 10, 1907 51.The New York Times March 10, 1907 52.The Times, London March 11, 1907 53.Chicago Daily Tribune March 12, 1907 54.* The Dunville Gazette June 7, 1907 55.* The Truth Seeker, New York June 15, 1907 56.* The Sunday Herald, Boston June 23, 1907 ( Fulfillment of a Grand Prophecy: Hadrat Ahmad's Challenge to John ± ± ± Alexander Dowie, Anwer Mahmood Khan, pp 12-13; Fate of a False ± Prophet, Syed Hasanat Ahmad, pp 5 & 6).± − ± * Newspaper clippings are included in the book, "Fulfillment of a Grand Prophecy: Hadrat Ahmad's Challenge to John Alexander Dowie, ± ± ± Anwer Mahmood Khan, pp.37- 39." ± 256

Page 257

− This was one of the many great signs shown by God, at the hands of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "In my age only in the month of the eclipses of the Sun Ramadan ± − and the Moon occurred; in my age only in accordance with the authentic sayings of the Holy Prophet, the Holy Qur’an, and the earlier books, there − was a plague all over the country; and in my age only new models of transport, namely, the railways came into existence.And in my age only, as per my prophecies, terrible earthquakes came.Does not, then, righteousness demand that one should not be bold in denying me? I swear by Almighty God and say thousands of signs for establishing my truth have been manifested.If this were a man's plan, never I would have enjoyed such support and help." (Haqiqatul Wahi p 45) ± − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes: as − "The signs fulfilled so far are so numerous that there is no room for an honest mind to deny them.All the earthly and heavenly signs of the appearance of the Promised Messiah have been manifested in my time.The eclipse of the sun and the moon in the month of happened Ramadan ± − some time ago, the comet has appeared; earthquakes have occurred; epidemics became rampant; Christianity has forcefully spread in the world and as was written, opposition to me has ben very intense.All these signs have been fulfilled." (Kitabul Bariyya, pp 259-260) − 257

Page 258

− A LIST OF THE PROMISED MESSIAH AND MAHDI'S BOOKS as − fYA ɼJ´Í Ü ÓNY ¾BÀ»A |Î°Í ( Ñ ä ä å ê æ ä ä Õ ä ä ä æ å æ ê ä yafidul mala hatta la yaqbiluhu ahadun − ± − ± − − − He will distribute so much wealth that there will be no one left to accept the wealth.(Sunan ibni Majah Kitabul Fitn Bab Fitnatul Dajjal wa Kharuj 'Isa ibni − − − − − Maryam wa Kharuj Yajuj wa Majuj) − − − − − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi has written about his books: as ± ± − "The books which I have written have been written with the help of God Almighty.I won't say that these publications are revelations.However, I must say that God Almighty has inspired me to write these books." (Sirrul Khilafah, p 6) − NO NAME OF THE BOOK TITLE IN ENGLISH PUBLISHED PAGES.1.Aik ‘Isa‘i ki Tin Sawalun Response to the Three Questions 1876 40 − − − − − ka Jawab of a Christian − 2.Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya, I Proofs of Ahmadiyyat, I 1880 52 − − ± ± 3.Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya, II Proofs of Ahmadiyyat, II 1880 80 − − ± ± 4.Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya, III Proofs of Ahmadiyyat, III 1882 180 − − ± ± 5.Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya, IV Proofs of Ahmadiyyat, IV 1884 361 − − ± ± 6.Purani Tahrirain Old Writings (Written: 1879) 1899 44 − − ± − 7.Surma Chashm Arya Collyrium for Arya's Eyes 1886 276 − − 8.Shahna-i-Haq Battalion of Truth 1887 123 ± − ± 9.Sabz Ishtihar Green Poster 1888 24 − 10.Fatah Islam Victory of Islam 1891 48 ± − − 11.Taudih-i-Maram Explanation of Objectives 1891 52 ± − − 258

Page 259

− 12.Izala Auham, I Removal of Suspicions, I 1891 222 − ± − 13.Izala Auham, II Removal of Suspicions, II 1891 314 − ± − 14.Al-Haq Mubahisa Ludhiana Ludhiana Debate 1891 115 ± − ± 15.Al-Haq Mubahisa Delhi Delhi Debate 1891 177 ± − ± 16.Asmani Faisla Divine Decision 1892 43 − − − ± 17.Nishan-i-Asmani Heavenly Sign 1892 56 − − − − 18.A’ina Kamalat-i-Islam* Mirror of Islam's Excellences 1893 678 − − − − − − 19.Barakatud Du‘a’ The Blessings of Prayer 1893 45 − − 20.Hujjatul Islam Convincing Proof of Islam 1893 12 ± − − 21.Sacha’i ka Izhar The Expression of Truth 1893 30 − − ± − 22.Jang-i-Muqaddas The Sacred Battle 1893 211 23.Shahadatul Qur’an Testimony of the Qur’an 1893 104 − − − 24.Tohfa-i-Baghdad* A Present to Baghdad 1893 33 − 25.Karamatus-Sadiqin* Miracles of the Truthful 1893 123 − ± ± − − 26.Hamamatul Bushra* Dove of Good News 1894 113 ± − 27.Nurul Haq, I* Light of the Truth, I 1894 186 − ± 28.Nurul Haq, II* Light of the Truth, II 1894 86 − ± 29.Itmamul Hujja* The Convincing Proof 1894 41 − ± 30.Sirrul Khilafah* The Secret of Khilafat 1894 117 − − 31.Anwarul Islam The Light of Islam 1894 125 − − − 32.Minanur Rahman* Bounties of the Gracious ± − (Written:1895) 1915 123 33.Diaul Haq The Light of the Truth 1895 75 ± − 34.Nurul Qur’an I The Light of the Qur’an, I 1895 42 − − − 35.Nurul Qur’an II The Light of the Qur’an, II 1895 83 − − − 36.Mi’yarul Madhahib The Standard of Religions 1895 34 − − 37.Arya Dharm The Arya Religion 1895 108 − 38.Sat Bachan The True Word 1895 176 39.Islami ‘Usul ki Philosophy The Philosophy of the Teachings − − − − of Islam 1897 138 − 40.Anjam-i-Atham* The End of Atham 1896 347 − − − 41.Siraj-i-Munir The Bright Lamp 1897 102 − − 42.Al-Istifta‘ The Query − 1897 32 43.Hujjatullah* Convincing Proof from God 1897 111 ± − 44.Tuhfa-i-Qaisariyya A Present to the Queen 1897 32 ± ± 45.Jalsa-i-Ahbab Gathering of the Friends 1897 32 ± − 46.Mahmud ki Amin Mahmud's Amin 1897 8 ± − − − − ± − − − 47.Sirajuddin ‘Isa‘i ki Char An Answer to the Four Questions of 1897 48 − − − − − Sawalon ka Jawab Sirajuddin, a Christian − − − − 48.Kitabul Bariyya The Book of Acquittal 1898 366 − 49.Al-Balagh* The Conveyance of Message − (Written: 1897) 1922 100 50.Zaruratul Imam The Need for Imam 1897 48 − − − 51.Najmul Huda* The Star of Guidance 1898 149 − 52.Raz-i-Haqiqat The Secret of the Truth 1898 25 − ± − 259

Page 260

− 53.Kashful Ghita The Opening of a Curtain 1898 48 − 54.Ayyam-i-Sulah Days of Reconciliation 1899 200 − ± ± 55.Haqiqatul Mahdi The True Nature of Mahdi 1899 46 ± − − − 56.Masih Hindustan Main Jesus in India (Written: 1896) 1908 107 − ± − 57.Sitara-i-Qaisariah The Star of the Queen 1899 18 − ± 58.Taryaqul Qulub Elixir for the Hearts − − 1899 400 59.Tohfa-i-Ghaznavia A Present for the Ghaznavi ± − 1902 62 (Written: 1900) 60.Ruidad-i-Jalsa Du‘a’ Minutes of the Meeting for Prayer 1900 40 − − 61.Khutba-i-Ilhamiyya* The Revealed Sermon ± − (Revealed: 1900) 1902 334 62.Lujjatun Nur* The Sea of Light 1910 140 (Written: 1900) − 63.Government Angraizi aur The British Government and Jihad 1900 34 − − Jihad − 64.Tohfa-i-Golarhviyya A Present for the Golarhvi 1902 254 ± 65.Arba‘in Forty (Brochures), 4 Volumes 1900 142 − 66.I‘jazul Masih* Miracle of the Messiah 1901 203 − − ± 67.Aik Ghalti ka Izala A Misunderstanding Removed 1901 12 − − 68.Da fi-ul-Bala’ The Remover of the Calamity 1902 28 ' − − 69.Al-Huda* The Guidance 1902 32 − 70.Nazulul Masih The Advent of Masih 1909 242 (Written: 1902) − − ± − ± 71.Kashti-i-Nuh The Ark of Noah 1902 88 − − ± 72.Tuhfatan Nadwah A Present to the Nadwah 1902 16 ± 73.I‘jaz-i-Ahmadi The Miracle of Ahmadi 1902 101 − ± − ± − 74.Review Bar Mubahisa Review of the Batalvi and Chakralvi 1902 8 − ± − − − − Batalvi wa Chakralvi Debates − − − − 75.Mawahibur Rahman* Gifts of God 1903 144 − ± − 76.Nasim-i-Da‘wat The Breeze of Invitation 1906 104 − 77.Sanatan Dharm The True Teachings 1903 16 − 78.Tadhkratush Shahadatain A Narration of Two Martyrdoms 1903 128 − 79.Siratul Abdal* The Characteristics of Godly People 1903 21 − − 80.Lecture Lahore The Lahore Lecture 1904 54 81.Lecture Sialkot The Sialkot Lecture 1904 46 82.Lecture Ludhiana The Ludhiana Lecture 1905 50 83.Ahmadi aur Ghair Ahmadi The Difference between an Ahmadi 1905 16 ± − ± − ± − Main Farq and a Non-Ahmadi ± − 84.Al-Wasiyyat The Will 1905 34 ± 85.Chashma-i-Masihi A Healing Fountain 1906 60 − ± − 86.Tajalliyyat-i-Ilahiyya The Divine Manifestations − − 1922 24 (Written 1906) 87.Qadian Ki Arya aur Ham Aryas of Qadian and We 1907 44 − − 88.Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya (Vol.5) Proofs of Ahmadiyyat (Vol.5) 1905 428 − ± − ± ± 89.Haqiqatul Wahi* The Nature of Revelation 1906 720 ± − − 90.Chashma-i-Ma‘rifat The Fountain of God Realization 1908 436 91.Paigham-i-Sulah The Message of Reconciliation 1908 64 − ± ± * The Book is either entirely or partly in Arabic.260

Page 261

− BELIEFS OF AHMADIYYA JAMA‘AT ± − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about beliefs of as − Ahmadis: ± − "We do believe that there is none worthy of worship except God Almighty and Hadrat Muhammad , the Chosen One, is His Messenger and sa ± ± ± the.We believe that angels are a reality, the Resurrection Khatamal Anbiya − − is a reality and the Day of Judgment is a reality; that Heaven is reality and so is Hell.We do believe that whatever the Glorious and Majestic God has stated in the Holy Qur’an and whatever our Prophet has stated is all, sa − according to the afore-mentioned statement, the truth.We do believe that the person who subtracts an iota from the Islamic law or adds to it as − much, or lays the foundation in any manner for rejection of Islamic − injunctions, or attempts to declare unlawful what has been made lawful in Islam, is an infidel and a renegade to Islam.We admonish our that Jama'at − − − they must adhere tenaciously to the fundamental article of Islamic faith as − long as they live, and they should die holding fast to the same belief: ɼ»A ¾Ìmi fÀZ¿ ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü ê Õ å æ å ì Ñ ì ä å å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä Ø la ilaha illallahu muhammadur rasulullah − − − ± − − There is none worthy of worship but Allah, Muhammad is Messenger of − ± Allah − Also they must have firm faith in all the Messengers of Allah and − revealed Books which have been authenticated by the Holy Qur’an.They − should abide strictly by the Qur’anic injunctions.They should strictly − observe Prayers and , pay and perform the (Pilgrimage).Fast Zakat Hajj − ± They should observe Islam by fully complying with all the injunctions, − obligations and prohibitions pronounced by God and His Messenger.In 261

Page 262

− short, all such matters, be they beliefs or deeds, on which there was consensus of opinion among our righteous predecessors and as are understood to be Islam by the general consensus of opinion of those who − follow the traditions of the Holy Prophet of Islam, should be complied sa − with as being obligatory.We call to witness the Heaven and the earth, that this exactly is our faith." ’ (Ayyamus-Sulh, 1st Edition: Ruhani Khaza in, Vol.14, p 323).− ± ± ± − − − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi again writes about Ahmadiyya as − ± beliefs: "The summary and essence of our faith is that there is no one worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of − ± Allah.Our belief that we profess in this life and with which, through the − favor of God Almighty, we shall pass on to the next life, is that our lord and master, Muhammad , the Chosen One, is the Seal of the Prophets and sa ± best of Messengers, at whose hands the faith was perfected and the bounty was completed through which by treading the straight path, a person can reach God Almighty.We believe with absolute certainty that the Holy Qur’an is the last of the Heavenly books and that not a word or vowel − point of its laws and limits and commandments can be added to or subtracted from.No revelation can now be received from God which can have the effect of modifying or abrogating the commandments of the Holy Qur’an, or of changing any single one of its directions.Anyone who thinks − otherwise is, according to us, not a believer, and is a heretic and.We Kafir − also believe that even the lowest stage of the straight path cannot attain to any stage of honor and perfection or of nearness to God except through the true and perfect following of the Holy Prophet.Whatever is bestowed sa upon us is by way of reflection and through the Holy Prophet." sa (Izala-i-Auham, pp 69-70) − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further writes: as − "The five pillars on which Islam is based are part of our faith.We − 262

Page 263

− hold fast to the Word of God, the Holy Qur’an, to which we are − commanded to hold fast.Like Faruq , we announce that the Book of Allah ra − − − suffices us, and like ‘A’ishah , when there is a difference between the ra − Qur’an and , we give priority to the Qur’an.We believe that there is Hadith − ± − − no one worthy of worship except Allah and that our lord and master, − Muhammad , the Chosen One, is His Messenger and." sa Khatamal Anbiya ± − − (The Essence of Islam, Vol.I, pp xiv-xv) − Ahmadis believe that Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian is ± − ± ± − − ± the Promised Messiah and of the Latter Days who was sent Imam Mahdi − − by God Almighty to serve Islam as prophesied by our master Prophet − Muhammad.Hadrat Ahmad is thus a servant and follower of Hadrat sa as ± ± ± ± ± ± Muhammad.sa ± Ahmadis also believe that Prophet Jesus died a natural death like as ± − other Prophets of God.This fact is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and − proved by sayings of the Holy Prophet of Islam.It is very clearly sa − mentioned in the Holy Bible that he did not die on the cross but was saved and he migrated to the lost sheeps of the House of Israel.Jesus , like other Prophets of God, was opposed by his people who as tried to nip his mission in the bud.Hence he took every precaution for his security in order to continue the sacred job of transformation.......When his opponents planned to kill him, Jesus ceased walking as openly among the Jews and went to a country near to the wilderness ( John 11:54-57 John 12:36 ).He even hid himself from them ( ).However, when he realized that the earthly means of security could not avail him, he turned to God and even asked his disciples to do the same." Abba, father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me "(Mark 14:36, likewise in Matthew 26:39) This prayer Jesus offered in such an agony and so earnestly that: as 263

Page 264

− "his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." ( ).Luke 22:44 The Scriptures show that God hears the prayers of the righteous ( ).Add to it what Jesus himself has said James 5:16-18; John 9:31 as regarding the acceptance of his prayers: "Father I thank thee that thou hast heard me.And I knew that thou hears me always..." ( )." John 11:41-42 Hence, the prayer of Jesus offered in the Garden of Gethsemane as was heard by God, and He did save him from an accursed death on the cross as we read: "When he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared." ( ) Hebrews 5:7 Where earthly means failed regarding the safety of Jesus, his Heavenly Master came to his rescue when he approached Him through supplications, and consequently saved him from the accursed death on cross.Jesus once said: as "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd." ( ) John 10:16 Jesus was referring to the lost ten tribes of Israel who had as scattered in Kashmir, Afghanistan, etc.In search of these tribes he went to the East after his miraculous escape from an accursed death on the cross.He still lies buried in Kashmir which the Holy Qur’an ( ) describes as 23:51 − a "hill having a green valley and the running water of spring." (Synopsis of Religious Preaching, pp 29, 30, 35,36) 264

Page 265

− Ahmadiyyat sets forth the essence of Islam, shorn of all ± − encrustations that have defaced and disfigured it, and debased Muslim society.It does not depart from Islam in the least nor does it add one iota to − the doctrines or teachings of Islam.Yet it is a fresh presentation of Islam, − − and more particularly of the wisdom and philosophy that underlie its doctrines and teachings, based upon and deriving entirely from the Holy Qur’an and the pronouncements and practice of the Holy Prophet of − Islam.It is not a new religion, nor is it an innovation.It sets forth only sa − that which has been inherent in Islam from the very beginning, but which − had been overlaid in the last few centuries or the need of which had not yet arisen.The Ahmadi Muslims are drawn from every walk of life and are ± − practical persons conforming their lives and activities to the teachings of Islam.They do not reject the moral values of life and have set enviable − examples of full, successful and righteous living.The distinguishing feature of their lives is the upholding of the moral and the spiritual above the material and the physical in a pattern of beneficial co-ordination.As taught by Islam, they believe that the faculties and the capacities bestowed − upon man by God Almighty are a precious bounty and must be developed and exercised at their proper time and occasion and are not to be suppressed or stultified.The moral and spiritual code to which they seek to conform imposes no handicaps upon them.There have, by the Grace and Mercy of God, appeared among them persons possessing high eminence in almost every sphere of human life.There is a failure to recognize the fact that the only way of deliverance is through the establishment of man's relationship with God.Today, the only claimant of such a possibility is the Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − which furnishes practical illustration of the truth of its claim.It is only through experience of such a relationship, that a person can arrive at absolute certainty of faith in the Divine, which can work the needed moral and spiritual revolution in the life of man.This is the challenge that Ahmadiyya Jama'at presents to an incredulous world.It is the challenge of ± − a revised, resurgent and invigorated Islam.− (What is Ahmadiyyat, A Pamphlet Published by the Ahmadiyya Jama'at, USA) ± ± − 265

Page 266

− The Ahmadiyya Community encourages interfaith dialogue, and ± diligently tries to correct misunderstandings about Islam.The Community − offers a clear presentation of Islamic wisdom, philosophy, morals and − spirituality as derived from the Holy Qur’an and practice ( ) of the Sunnah − Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad.sa − ± A brief explanation of the beliefs of as Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − presented by Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − − ± − ± − − ± II , is as follows: ra 1.God exists and it is essential to believe in the existence of God.2.There is no partner of God Almighty and He is One without any associate.3.God is Holy, free from all defects and full of all perfections.There is no imperfection which may be found in Him, and no perfection which may not be found in Him.4.Angels are a part of God's creation.They follow the law laid down in the Qur’an -- 'they do what they are − commanded'.The angels only manifest the Will and Wisdom of God.5.God speaks to His chosen servants and reveals to them His Purpose.Revelation from God descends in words.God communicates His Will to His servants.6.When darkness prevails in the world and human beings sink deep in sin and evil, when without the help of God it becomes difficult for them to release themselves from the hold of Satan, then out of His Mercy and Beneficence, God chooses from out of His own loving and loyal servants those whom He charges with the duty to guide the world.7.Divine Messengers, who in the past have helped mankind 266

Page 267

− out of darkness and evil, have belonged to different levels of spiritual greatness and have fulfilled, in different degrees, the Divine purpose which determined their advent.The greatest of them was the Holy Prophet.sa If the earlier Prophets had lived in the time of the Holy Prophet , they would have had to obey and follow sa him.The Holy Prophet has said: sa Ó§BJMA ÜA BÀȨmË BÀ» ÅÎÎY ÓnΧ Ë ÓmÌ¿ ÆB· Ì» æ ê äéê ì ê ä å ä ê ä ä ä ê æì ä Ð æ ê ä Ð æ å ä ä æ ä lau kana Musa wa 'Isa hayyaini lama wasi'ahuma − − − − − ± − − illattiba'i − − If Moses and Jesus were alive today, they would have had to believe in me and follow me.(Tafsir Ibni Kathir, Vol.2, p 246) − − 8.God hears to the prayers of His supplicants and servants.9.From time to time God determines and designs the course of events in special ways.Events of this world are not determined entirely by the laws known as the Laws of Nature.Besides these laws, there are special laws through which God manifests His Might, Interest, and Purpose.10.Death is not the end of all existence for human beings.Man's soul survives death and has to account for its deeds in the Hereafter.Those who do good deeds merit generous rewards.Those who offend against His teachings and commandments meet the punishment which is their due.God has the power to restore a man to life from the meanest particle or atom of his soul or being.11.Disbelievers in God and enemies of His revealed guidance, 267

Page 268

− unless forgiven out of His infinite Mercy, will stay in a place called Hell.12.Those, who believe in God, His Prophets, His Angels and His Books; who affirm with their heart and soul the guidance which comes from Him; who walk in humility and abase themselves in His presence; who live like the poor though they be rich; who serve humanity and sacrifice their comfort for others; who abjure excesses of all kinds, hate, cruelty, and transgression; who are models of human goodness -- these men will go to a place called Heaven.They will have attained everlasting life, everyone an image of his Creator.(Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, The London Mosque, London, UK, ± 1980, pp 6-11) CONDITIONS OF BAI AT (INITIATION) ‘ On 12 January 1889, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi issued a th as − leaflet entitled, in which he set down ten conditions "Takmil-i-Tabligh" − − for those who wished to swear spiritual allegiance to him and become an Ahmadi Muslim.They are the same conditions which, even today, every ± − would-be initiate pledges to uphold.To join the Community, one must agree to these conditions and swear an allegiance to the successor of the Promised Messiah.as The Words of (Initiation) which the Promised Messiah Bai‘at-i-‘ula − − and Mahdi wrote in his own handwriting are as follows: as − ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê bismilla hirrahma nirrahim − ± − ± − 268

Page 269

− In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful Ó¼vÃ Ë Ê fÀZà ( æ é ê ä å ä å ä æ ä nahmadu hu wa nusalli ± − ± − We praise Him and we worship Him "I repent, today at the hand of Ahmad of all my sins and bad habits ± to which I was addicted, and most truthfully and solemnly do I promise that, till the last day of my life, I shall eschew to the best of my ability, all manners of sin.I shall give precedence to religion over worldly comforts and pleasures.I shall try, as far as I can, to observe the ten conditions of Bai‘at th laid down in the leaflet (dated January 12 , 1889).I seek forgiveness of God for my past sins.ÓIi ɼ»A j°¬Nm A.ÓIi ɼ»A j°¬Nm A.ÓIi ɼ»A j°¬Nm A æ éê ä ä Õ å ê æ ä æ ä æ éê ä ä Õ å ê æ ä æ ä æ éê ä ä Õ å ê æ ä æ ä Ü ÊfYË É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A Ë ÉλA LÌMA Ë KÃg ½· Å¿ ( ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä ä ê æ ä ê å æ å ä ì î æ ä é ê å æ ê ÓÃA Li.É»Ìmi Ë Ê fJ§ AfÀZ¿ ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq ( ( ( æ éê ê éê ä å æ å ä ä å æ ä ç ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä j°¬Í Ü ÉÃB¯ ÓIÌÃg Ó»j°«B¯ ÓJÃhI O¯jN§AË Ón°Ã OÀ¼£ ( å ê æ ä ä ì ê ä æ ê æ å å æ ê æ ê æ ä æ ê æ ä ê å æ ä ä æ ä æ ê æ ä å æ ä ä.OÃA ÜA LÌÃh»A ä æä ì ê ä æ å í astaghfirulla-ha rabbi, astaghfirullaha rabbi, astaghfirullah − − − − − rabbi min kulli dhanbiñwwa atubu ilaihi wa ash-hadu alla − − − ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalah wa ash-hadu anna − − − − − muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh rabbi inni zalamtu nafsi ± − − − ± − wa‘taraftu bi dhanbi faghfirli dhunubi fa innahu la − − − − − − yaghfirudhdhunuba illa anta − − 269

Page 270

− I beg pardon from Allah, my Lord.I beg pardon from Allah, my Lord.I − − beg pardon from Allah, my Lord, from all my sins and turn to Him.I bear − witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and He is One − and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.O my Lord, my Allah, I wronged my soul and I confess − all my sins; forgive me my sins, for there is none else except Thee to forgive.(Siratul Mahdi, Vol.1, pp 77-78, Second Print, 1935) − − The Ten Conditions of (Initiation) Bai‘at Published by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − 1.The initiator shall solemnly promise that he/she shall abstain from (association of a partner with God) right Shirk up to the day of his/her death.2.That he/she shall keep away from falsehood, fornication, adultery, trespasses of the eye, debauchery, dissipation, cruelty, dishonesty, mischief and rebellion; and will not permit himself/herself to be carried away by passions, however strong they may be.3.That he/she shall regularly offer the five daily Prayers in accordance with the commandments of God and the Holy Prophet; and shall try his/her best to be regular in offering the (Pre-dawn supererogatory Prayer) and Tahajjud invoking (Blessings) on the Holy Prophet; that Durud − he/she shall make it his/her daily routine to ask forgiveness for his/her sins, to remember the bounties of God and to praise and glorify Him.4.That under the impulse of any passions, he/she shall cause no harm whatsoever to the creatures of Allah in general, − and Muslims in particular, neither by his/her tongue nor by his/her hands nor by any other means.270

Page 271

− 5.That he/she shall remain faithful to God in all circumstances of life, in sorrow and happiness, adversity and prosperity, in felicity and trials; and shall in all conditions remain resigned to the decree of Allah and keep − himself/herself ready to face all kinds of indignities and sufferings in His way and shall never turn away from it at the onslaught of any misfortune; on the contrary, he/she shall march forward.6.That he/she shall refrain from following un-Islamic customs − and lustful inclinations, and shall completely submit himself/herself to the authority of the Holy Qur’an; and − shall make the Word of God and sayings of the Holy Prophet the guiding principle in every walk of his/her life.sa 7.That he/she shall entirely give up pride and vanity and shall pass all his/her life in lowliness, humbleness, cheerfulness, forbearance and meekness.8.That he/she shall hold faith, the honor of faith, and the cause of Islam dearer to him/her than his/her life, wealth, − honor, children and all other dear ones.9.That he/she shall keep himself/herself occupied in the service of God's creatures, for His sake only; and shall endeavor to benefit mankind to the best of his/her God-given abilities and powers.10.That he/she shall enter a bond of brotherhood with this humble servant of God, pledging obedience to me in everything good, for the sake of Allah, and remain faithful − to it till the day of his/her death; that he/she shall exert such a high devotion in the observance of this bond as is not to be found in any other worldly relationship and connections demanding devoted dutifulness." (Translated from Ishtihar "Takmil-i-Tabligh, January 12, 1889) − − − 271

Page 272

− 10 THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AHMADI ± − AND NON-AHMADI MUSLIMS ± − Every Muslim, regardless of sect, believes in the Oneness of God and in the Prophethood of the Holy Prophet.Every Muslim believes that sa Islam is the ultimate religion for the salvation of mankind.All Muslims − believe that Islam will continue to fulfil all of man's spiritual needs till the − Day of Judgement.All Muslims believe that the Law revealed through the Holy Prophet Muhammad is unchangeable and that the Qur’an is sa ± − incorruptible and unalterable to the extent even an iota or a dot.Muslims of all shades of thought believe that the sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad have validity and authority till the end of mankind.Muslims sa ± of every sect believe that it is only through a bond with the Holy Prophet Muhammad that the light of eternal truth may be perceived.These basic sa ± points of creed are shared by all Muslims without exception.With so much in common, there still remains the fundamental difference which sets Ahmadiyya Muslim Community apart from other ± Muslims - the difference on the issue of revival of Islam.All other − differences emanate from this main issue.(Philosophy of Revival of Religion,Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, ± ± − ± − ± Khalifatul Masih IV , Islam International Publications Ltd., London, aba − − ± − UK.p 1) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi had many doctrinal differences as − with the views of contemporary orthodox Muslims.He had no differences on the fundamental tenets of Islam.All the differences were on the matters − 272

Page 273

− of interpretation and other details.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has as − tried to remove the differences by presenting correct interpretation of what is stated in the Holy Qur’an and the.Some prominent differences Ahadith − ± − − are as follows: i.Jesus Christ's Demise as Many non-Ahmadis believe that Jesus was never put on the cross as ± − and his place was taken by someone who resembled him.According to them, Jesus was physically lifted up into the Heavens where he awaits for as his return to earth as his second advent.Ahmadis believe that Jesus was put on the cross, but he did not die as ± − on it.He was unconscious when taken down from the cross; because he remained nailed to it for only a few hours.He was alive when he was laid in the sepulcher (tomb) and came out of it alive on the third day.Then he met his disciples in secret and assured them of being alive.Thus, God delivered him from the 'accursed death' of the cross.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi proved from Biblical accounts as − that Jesus did not die upon the cross.He was alive when taken down from as the cross and was revived.In 1899, the promised Messiah and Mahdi as − stated in his book, , that Jesus , after having survived the 'Jesus in India' as cross, traveled to Afghanistan and Kashmir, in search of the lost tribes of Israel.He settled in Kashmir where he died a natural death at the age of 120 years and was buried in Sirinagar, Kashmir.Thus he fulfilled his mission by preaching to the lost tribes of Israel.Visitors to Sirinagar may still see Jesus's tomb in the street.This tomb is still known as as Khan Yar − − that of a Prophet, , i.e., the tomb of Jesus , the Prophet.After his Yuz Asaf as − − ± death, his soul rose to God like those of righteous men.In the Holy Qur’an, there exists a Divine promise regarding Jesus Christ : as − 273

Page 274

− Ó»A ¹¨¯Ai Ë ¹Î¯ÌN¿ ÓÃA ÓnÎ¨Í ì ä ê ä å ê ä ä ä æ éê ä ä å æ éê ê ê æ ê Ð ya ‘Isa inni mutawafika wa rafi‘uka ai layya − − − − − − O Jesus, I will cause thee to die and will exalt thee to a natural death Myself.(3:56) This Divine promise only meant that God would not allow Jesus Christ to die the accursed death on the cross, but would cause him to die a as natural death and would raise his soul to Himself like those of all righteous persons.The Ahmadis interpret the prophecy of the second advent of Jesus as ± − in the same way in which Jesus interpreted the prophecy of second advent as of.Jesus was not to come back in person, but another man was to Elijah as come in the spirit and character of Jesus , just as John the Baptist came in as the spirit and character of.Elijah The prophecy of the second advent of Jesus , the Ahmadis believe, as ± − has been fulfilled in the advent of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, who ± ± − − ± came in the spirit and power of Jesus , as John had come in the spirit and as power of.Elijah (Basics of Religious Education, Third Edition, Sheikh Abdul Hadi, p 23) The Promised Messiah and Mahdi did a great deal of research and as − he wrote on this subject with great vigor giving powerful arguments.He laid great emphasis on the natural death of Jesus contrary to Orthodox as Muslim belief about ascension and life of Jesus physically in Heaven.He as also proved the natural death of Jesus from the Holy Qur’an and as Hadith.− ± − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "Remember very well that no one shall ever come down from 274

Page 275

− Heaven.All our opponents who live today shall die and none from them shall ever see Jesus son of Mary coming down from Heaven; then their as children that are left after them shall also die and none from among them shall ever see Jesus son of Mary coming down from Heaven and then their third generation shall also die and they too shall not see the son of Mary coming down.Then God shall cause great consternation in their minds and they shall then say that the period of the dominance of the cross has also passed away and the way of life has changed completely, yet the son of Mary has not come down.Then in dismay the wise among them shall forsake this belief and three centuries from now shall not have passed when those who await the coming of Jesus son of Mary, whether they be Muslims or Christians, shall relinquish altogether this conception.Then shall prevail only one religion over the whole world and there shall be only one religious Leader.I came only to sow the seed which has been planted by my hand.It shall now grow and flourish and there is none who can hinder it." (Ruhani Khaza’in vol.20, Tadhkiratush-Shahadatain 67) − − − − − ii.The Second Advent of the Messiah and Imam Mahdi as − − All Muslims believe that in the Latter Days a reformer, a Messiah and would appear and restore the religion of Islam to its former Mahdi − − glory.Non-Ahmadi Muslims have adopted the belief that as Jesus did as ± − not die but ascended bodily to Heaven, he will return as the Messiah in the Latter Days.They also claim that the (Who they believe is a Mahdi − different person and would be from the fold of Islam) will spread Islam − − with sword and wage a war on all those who disbelieve.Ahmadi Muslims reject this interpretation.They believe that Jesus as ± − has already died like all other mortals.Therefore, the question of return is irrelevant.They interpret the second advent of Jesus as a spiritual event, as 275

Page 276

− similar to that of second coming of Elijah, as explained by Jesus himself.as Just as John the Baptist had come fulfilling the prophecy of the second coming of Elijah, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad has come fulfilling the as ± ± − − ± prophecy of the second advent of Jesus.Ahmadis believe and as Mahdi ± − − Messiah are one and the same person, and that person is Hadrat Mirza ± ± − Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian.He came for the Renaissance of Islam and his − ± − sword was his pen, with which he indicated the truth and superiority of Islam.− a.Non-Ahmadi Muslim's Concept of the Advent of ± − the Messiah and Imam Mahdi as − − Non-Ahmadi Muslims believe that Jesus, son of Mary, ± − whom the Qur’an declares a Prophet of the Israelites, will descend − bodily from the sky in person.He will immediately set out with sword in hand and will hack all enemies of Islam! His global sweep − shall have three grand objectives.The first objective will be the destruction of the cross.Not figuratively, but literally! He will set about destroying the symbol of Christian faith with such vigor that no trace of it shall be left out.There will not remain a single cross to be seen - in Church or home or around any neck.According to them, his next important task will be the extermination of swine of every variety - domestic as well as wild! So, the followers of the cross will then be left with neither a cross for prayer nor a pig for dinner.Thus Christ will deprive the Christians of the articles, not only of their spiritual sustenance, but also of their physical nourishment.The third task for the Messiah will be the killing of ' Dajjal' , − the Antichrist.Now who is this Antichrist? According to the traditions, if taken literally, as some would have it, he will be a one-eyed Colossus who will come riding an ass of extraordinary proportions.He will be so tall that his head will stand higher than the clouds.All Prophets have warned their followers against the evil of this Antichrist.Now, while the Antichrist is busy ravaging 276

Page 277

− the earth the Messiah will descend from the Heavens.He will engage the Antichrist in battle near Damascus and slay him.He will then conquer the entire world.Having done this, he will hand over its governance to the Muslims.b.The Correct Interpretation According to Ahmadi ± − Muslims Although the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community does not in ± any way reject the prophecies concerning the descent of the Messiah and the appearance of the , it does emphasize that Mahdi − to put a literal meaning on them is the height of naivete and ignorance.We believe that it is as a result of not grasping fully the exalted station of the Holy Prophet that such a serious error is sa made in understanding his deep and philosophical message.Men of insight and wisdom often use parables and allegories to outline subjects of such great importance but the superficial eye cannot perceive their meaning.The Ahmadi Muslims believe that the whole range of ± − subjects covering Messiah, the Antichrist and his ass are allegorical.The Messiah, therefore, is not that earlier Prophet who was sent among the Israelites.The Ahmadis believe that Jesus ± − Christ died a natural death after surviving the torture of the cross.The Messiah of the prophecy was in fact to be a new person who was to be born amongst the followers of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.Because of some characteristics and qualities he was sa ± to share with Jesus , he would be given the title of Messiah, "Son as of Mary" in much the same way as a great dramatist is called Shakespeare.The reference to the cross, too, is a simile.The Messiah will not literally go around wrecking crosses.He will defeat the Christian faith with strong reasoning and powerful arguments.The destruction of the cross, therefore, stands for the ideological rout of Christianity.Similarly, the word "swine" is not to be taken in the literal sense.It connotes the cultural filth of the 277

Page 278

− Western world which turns men into beastly beings.The word swine stands for the so called sexual anarchy sweeping across America and Europe.It stands for the disgusting debauchery which claim even innocent children as its victims.The most Traditions assuredly did not convey that the Messiah would hunt down herds of wild boar or domesticated pigs.This would be a strange image of a Prophet of God.It would rather remind one of Ajax, a hero from Greek Mythology, who cut to pieces herds of cattle and flocks of sheep in the mad belief that they were the Greek army's chieftains! The Antichrist, too, like the Messiah, the cross and the swine is symbolic.He symbolizes a great powerful nation which rules not only the earth but also space.The cross and the swine are in fact symbols pertaining to this nation.The say that the Traditions Antichrist's right eye will be sightless but his left eye will be large and bright.This is a symbolic description of the fact that though this nation would be devoid of spiritual light yet its material insight and therefore material attainment, would be great.Lastly, the Ahmadi Muslims consider the Antichrist's ass to ± − be a symbol too - a symbol that was used to describe the means of transportation of the days to come.All the features describing this ass are without exception identifiable with the fuel-powered vehicles invented by the West.Consider the salient features of the ass - as described in the Traditions - it will eat fire, it will travel over land, over sea and above the air; its speed will be so great that it will cover a journey of months within the space of a few hours; the passengers will travel not on its back but in its belly which would be lit up; it will announce its departure and ask passengers to take their seats.The fulfillment of these things with such wondrous exactness is a glorious testimony of the truth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.sa ± (Revival of Religion, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 3-6) ± ± − ± − ± 278

Page 279

− c.Messiah and Mahdi are the Same Person − Some of the traditions of the Holy Prophet regarding the sa advent of Messiah and which clearly state that Masih Imam Mahdi, − − − ± and are the same person are as follows: Imam Mahdi − − ÁÍj¿ ÅI ÓnΧ ÜA ÔfÈÀ»A Ü ä ä æ ä ä æ Ð æ ê ì ê í ê æ ä æ ä lal mahdiyyu illa ‘isabna maryama − − − There is no except ‘Isa.Mahdi − − (Ibn Majah, Bab Shiddatuz Zaman) − − − Ë BÍfÈ¿ B¿B¿A ÁÍj¿ ÅI ÓnΧ Ó´¼Í ÆA Á¸Ä¿ tB§ Å¿ ¹qÌÍ ä þ ê æ ä í ä ê ä ä æ ä ä æ ä æ ê Ð æ ì æ ä æ å æ ê ä ä æ ä å ä æ å - jÍlÄb»A ½N´Í Ë Kμv»A jn¸Í Üf§ BÀ¸Y ä æ ê æ ê æ å å æ ä ä ä æ ê ì å ê æ ä í æ ä í ä ä yushaku man ‘asha minkum añyyalqa ‘isabna maryama − − − − imaman mahdiyyan wa hakaman ‘adlan yaksirussaliba wa − ± ± ± − yaqtulul khinzira − It is just possible that he who lives of you might meet Jesus the son of Mary who is the and a just judge.He will break the cross Imam Mahdi − − and kill the swine.(Musnad Ahmad, p 156/2) ± In pondering over the above traditions one is bound to come to the veritable conclusion that the is no other than the Mahdi − Messiah promised to Muslims.To think that the Messiah and the Mahdi are two different persons is wrong as is clear from the above − 279

Page 280

− traditions.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi was called "Jesus, son as − of Mary" because of many similarities between the mission of the Promised Messiah and Hadrat ‘Isa (Jesus, son of Mary): neither as as ± ± − of them was a law-bearing Prophet; Jesus who appeared 1300 as years after Moses , came to rejuvenate Judaism, while Hadrat as ± ± Ahmad's mission was to re-establish the true teachings of the Holy as ± Prophet after 1300 years; both were rejected by the scholars of sa their Faith) and both manifested the i.e.the gentler "jamali", − − aspects of their religion.For shedding the light of Islam in the − Christian world he is called Messiah or son of Mary, and for illuminating the hearts of Muslims with pure Islam, he is called − Mahdi − Holy Prophet has said: sa BÇjaA ÁÍj¿ ÅI ÓnΧ Ë BÈ»ËA BÃA Ò¿A ¹¼ÈM ±Î· ä å ê Ð ä ä æ ä å æ ä æ ê ä ä å ì ä ä Ú Ñ ì å å ê æ ä ä æ ä kaifa tahliku ummatan ana awwaluha wa ‘isabnu maryama − − − akhiru ha − − How can my followers be destroyed when I am at their beginning and Jesus, son of Mary, is at their end (Musnad Ahmad Kanzul 'Umal,Vol.7, p 203) ± − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as ± ± − a."When the 13 century of the drew to a close and th Hegira the beginning of the 14 century approached, I was th informed by God Almighty, through revelation, that I was the (Reformer) for the 14 century." Mujaddid th (Kitabul Bariyya, p 201) − 280

Page 281

− b."It was disclosed to me through Divine revelation a few years later that the Messiah that had been promised from the earliest time to this nation and that the last (The Mahdi − Guided Leader) who was destined to appear after the deterioration of Islam, and who was to be granted guidance − direct from God, and who was to provide once again the spiritual nourishment, as had been pre-ordained, and about whom glad tidings had also been given by the Holy Prophet himself 1300 years ago, is none other than me." sa (Tadhkiratush-Shahadatain, p 1) − c."The holy and pure revelation of God has informed me that I have been sent by Him as the Promised Messiah and as the Promised and as Arbiter for the internal and external Mahdi − differences." (Arba'in) − iii.The Interpretation of the Finality of Hadrat ± ± Muhammad's Prophethood sa ± In the Holy Qur’an, Allah has bestowed the title "Khataman − − − Nabiyyin" on the Holy Prophet.sa − MBaË É¼»A ¾Ìmi Ÿ»Ë ¸»BUi Å¿fYA FIA fÀZ¿ ÆB· B¿ ‘ ‘ ä ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ å ì æ ê Ð ä æ å ê ä éê æ éê î ä ä ä ä Ñ ì ä å ä ä ä BÀμ§ ÕÓq ½¸I ɼ»A ÆB·Ë ÅÎJÄ»A , í æ ê ä î æ ä é ê å ê å Õ ä ä ä ä È é × ê ì ma kana muhammadun aba ahadimmirrijalikum wa la − − ± − − − kirrasulallahi wa khatamannabiyyin wa kanallahu bi kulli − − − − − shai’in ‘alima − − Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but is the Messenger he ± of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.(33:41) − 281

Page 282

− Non-Ahmadi Muslims interpret the verse to mean that there can be ± − no Prophet of any kind after Hadrat Muhammad and the door of sa ± ± ± revelation has closed forever and that Allah will never speak directly to his − servants again.The Arabic word in the verse has many connotations but khatam − the essence of the title is without a shadow of doubt, Khataman Nabiyyin − − to be the best; the supreme; the last word; the final authority; the Seal of the Prophets; the one who encompasses all and testifies to the truth of others.(Lexicons of the Arabic language F.W.Lane' Aqrab al-Muwarid, − − al-Mufradat of Imam Raghib, Fath and Zurqani).− − − − Ahmadi Muslims, on the other hand, believe that Allah reveals ± − − Himself and speaks to His created beings and will continue to do so till the end of time.Ahmadis interpret (The Seal of the Khataman Nabiyyin ± − − − Prophets) as a mark of distinction which implies great perfection of Prophethood.They believe that Prophethood will continue, but that there will never be any new law-bearing Prophet after the Holy Prophet.Any sa Prophet coming after him must be his follower and, therefore, will come from the fold of Islam.This is what the Holy Prophet himself prophesied, sa − when he foretold the coming of from among his ‘Isa ibn Maryam − followers to rejuvenate Islam in the Latter Days: − Á¸Ä¿ Á¸¿B¿A Ë Á¸Î¯ ÁÍj¿ ÅIA ¾là AgA ÁNÃA ±Î· æ å æ ê æ å å ä ê ä æ å æ ê ä ä æ ä å æ ä ä ä ä ê æ å æä ä æ ä kaifa antum idha nazalabnu maryama fikum wa imamukum − − − minkum 'O Muslims! What will be your condition when Son of Mary will descend among you and he will be your from among yourselves.' Imam − (Bukhari, Kitabul Anbiya, Bab Nuzul ‘Isa) − − − − − − − Ahmadis believe that this prophecy has been fulfilled in the person ± − 282

Page 283

− of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad who claimed to be the Promised Messiah ± ± − − ± and Mahdi , while Non-Ahmadi Muslims are still awaiting its fulfillment.as − ± − Thus, Ahmadis believe firmly, fervently, without any ambiguity or ± − reservation, and with all their heart and soul, that the Holy Prophet of Islam, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa is.He was and sa Khataman Nabiyyin − ± ± ± ± ± − − will ever remain, the greatest Prophet of all times - past, present and future - and his will remain unaltered and the guiding code and law for Shari ah ‘ − mankind till Doomsday.The study of the Holy Qur’an, the and religious history Hadith − ± − shows that Prophets are of three types: a) First, there are those Prophets who are commissioned by God to introduce a new , a new code of law.These Shari‘ah − are called the Law-bearing Prophets.This type of Prophethood is known as or Tashri‘i Nabuwwat − − Law-bearing Prophethood.Obvious examples are Moses as and the Holy Prophet of Islam , who respectively brought sa − the Torah and the Holy Qur’an.− b) A Prophet who is a reflection of an earlier law-bearing Prophet.It is not independent but derives its Divine origin through total submission and homage to a previous Law-bearing Prophet.The relationship of such a Prophet with the Law-bearing Prophet is one of servant and master.He has no independent existence of his own.Such Prophethood is termed as because it Zilli Nabuwwat, ± − merely reflects the Prophethood of another as the moon reflects the light of the sun and has no independent or separate light of its own.It is a unique distinction of the Holy Prophet that by following him the mantle of sa Prophethood can be achieved.c) Prophets who are not Law-bearers but only serve the previous of an earlier Law-bearing Prophet.The Shari‘ah − 283

Page 284

− obvious example is (Jesus Christ) and others Hadrat ‘Isa as ± ± − − who came in fulfillment of Mosaic Law but were otherwise independent and did not derive their Prophethood through a direct linkage with the preceding law-bearing Prophet.The Ahmadiyya belief about is that after the Khatm-i-Nabuwwat ± advent of the Holy Prophet, Hadrat Muhammad , the only type of sa ± ± ± Prophethood which remains is one which serves - Shari‘ah-i-Muhammadi − ± − Muhammadi Law, as embodied in the Holy Qur’an, without the slightest ± − − change in it.It draws its inspiration and legitimacy from the Holy Prophet Muhammad with whom it retains the relationship of Master and servant sa ± and to whom it remains totally subservient.(The Exalted Status of the Holy Prophet Muhammad as Khataman sa ± − Nabiyyin, 1998, pp 6,7) − Recalling his status and title as the Promised Messiah and the Divinely bestowed title of Prophethood, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi says: as − "This status and title has been bestowed on me only because I am a true follower and servant of the Holy Prophet.If I had not been from his sa Ummah, and if I had not been his follower, then even if my services and talents had been as massive and tall as all the mountains of this world, I would not have acquired or been bestowed the title and honor of direct communication with God.This is true because now all doors of Prophethood are closed except the gate of the Prophethood of the Holy Prophet.After him there can be no independent Prophet with a new law sa or code.Now the only type of Prophethood which survives is that which is without any new other than that of Islam, and which is bestowed Shari‘ah − − on a true follower or servant of the Holy Prophet of Islam." sa − ( Tajaliyyat-i-Ilahiyya, pp 24-25) − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further says: as − "I call to witness the Glory of God and His Majesty that I am one of the faithful, a Muslim, and I believe in Allah, the Exalted, in His Books, − 284

Page 285

− in His Messengers, in His angels and in the life after death.I believe that our Prophet Muhammad , the Elect of God, is the most eminent of the sa ± Prophets and the Seal of the Prophets." (Hamamatul Bushra, p 8) ± − The spiritual impact of was effective even at Khataman Nabiyyin − − the time when Hadrat Adam was passing through the early stages of his as ± ± creation.The Holy Prophet once stated: sa ÉÄÎ Ó¯ ¾fVÄÀ» ÂeA ÆA Ë ÅÎÎJÄ»A ÁMBa ɼ»A fħ BIÌN¸¿ OÄ· × ê æ ê æ ê Ñ ê ä æ å ä ä ä Ð ì ä ä ä æé ê ê ì ä ä ä ê Õ ä æ ê í æ å æ ä å æ å kuntu maktuban indalla hi khatamannabiyyina wa inna adama ‘ − − − − − la munjadilun fi tinihi − ± − − In the sight of Allah, I was since the time the Adam Khataman Nabiyyin − − − was still in developmental stages.(Musnad Ahmad, p 127/4; Kanzul ‘amal p 112/6) ± − Hadrat ‘A’ishah , the spouse of the Holy Prophet , has clarified the ra sa ± ± − meaning of.She is reported to have said: Khataman Nabiyyin − − Êf¨I ÏJÃ Ü A̴̻M Ü Ë ÕBÎJÃÜA ÁMBa ÉÃA A̻̳ ( ( ä æ ä ì êä ä æ å æ å ä ä ä ê ê æ æ ä å ä ä ì ê æ å æ å qulu innahu khatamul anbiya’i wa la taqulu la nabiyya − − − − − − − − − ba dahu ‘ − "Say that he (The Holy Prophet ) is but do not say sa Khataman Nabiyyin − − that there will be no Prophet after him." (Commentary, Durr-i-Manthur, Vol.5, p 204; Majma' Baharul Anwar, Vol.4, p 8) − ± − − 285

Page 286

− iv.The Institution of Khilafat − At the death of the Holy Prophet , the Muslims lost not only their sa Prophet but also their spiritual, religious and political leader.The Holy Prophet had not designated any successor during his own lifetime and the sa young Muslim community could not possibly survive without one.A leader, therefore, had to be selected who would not only be acceptable to the people but also worthy of the Holy Prophet's ideals and objectives.sa The choice of the Muslims fell on elected Hadrat Abu Bakr who was then ra ± ± − elected as the first Khalifah or Successor of the Holy Prophet.This election − or nomination of leaders in the Muslim community grew into an institution called the Khilafat or Caliphate.− The period of the four successors of the Holy Prophet, Hadrat Abu ± ± − Bakr , Hadrat ‘Umar , Hadrat ‘Uthman , and Hadrat ‘Ali , is known as the ra ra ra ra ± ± ± ± − ± ± − Khilafat-i-Rashida (The Pious Caliphate).− − (A Book of Religious Knowledge, Waheed Ahmad, p.153) The promise of is linked to the following four Khilafat-i-Rashida − − conditions which the must fulfill: Ummat-i-Muslimah 1.Should have strong belief ( ) in the Promise of God ‘Iman − − Almighty regarding the establishment of Khilafat-i-Rashida.− − 2 Should act righteously, as is desired of subjects of the Khilafat-i-Rashida.− − 3.Be willing to make all sacrifices for the establishment of the Oneness of God.4.Under all circumstances, gives precedence to obedience to the of the time, while keeping in mind the end of Khalifah − the proud people, which always results in disobedience and sinfulness.286

Page 287

− The history of Islam clearly shows that as long as the − Ummat-i-Muslimah kept taking care of the above four responsibilities, God Almighty kept providing them the blessings of the.When the Khilafat − Ummat-i-Muslimah stopped fulfilling the above requirements of the Khilafat, obedience and righteousness disappeared, and they started − fighting each other.Thus, God Almighty took away the blessings of Khilafat from Muslims, and a long period of unjust and cruel leadership − started.However, in this age, by the grace of God, once again through the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , the spiritual son of the Holy Prophet , a as sa − Jama'at has been established, which fulfills the above four conditions of − the.Hence, once again the institution of in the Khilafat-i-Rashida Khilafat − − − tradition of has begun in Ahmadiyya upon the Khilafat-i-Rashida Jama'at − − − ± demise of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.This is continuation as Khilafat − − of the , which began 1400 years ago after the demise of Khilafat-i-Rashida − − the Holy Prophet.sa The Promised Messiah and Mahdi said about - The as Khilafat − − Second Manifestation of the Power of God: Allah's Divine Power is manifested twice.I appeared from God as a − manifestation; and after me there shall come other persons who will be the second manifestation of Divine Power--- ---And the coming of that manifestation would be better for you because it would be everlasting, of which the link shall not break until the end of the world." (Al-Wasiyyat, pp 6-7, Ruhani Khaza’in vol.20, pp 304-305) ± − − − − The Ahmadiyya is the second manifestation and Allah has Khilafat ± − − assured Ahmadi Muslims that this will endure to the end of time.Khilafat ± − − Khilafat provides unity, security and progress for the − Jama at-i-Ahmadiyya ‘.No other sect in Islam has such a strong leadership, − ± − nor enjoys such unity and devotion among its followers.287

Page 288

− v.The Concept of Jihad − Non-Ahmadi Muslims often object that Hadrat Mirza Ghulam ± − ± ± − − Ahmad forbade to please the British Government, and he wrote Jihad ± − many books to abrogate.Jihad − This charge is totally false.is a part of Islam.He only Jihad − − rejected the concept of then, current among many (Learned Jihad ‘Ulema − − person of the religion) and sects of Islam, and that only pertaining to the − part of , which is called by sword.It was only so because Jihad Jihad − − conditions for such a were not present.He did not abrogate the Jihad − concept of by fighting for all times.He only pointed out that Jihad − conditions were not present in his time.(The Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, p 158) as − ± The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "Without a doubt the causes of do not exist in this country Jihad − (India) in these days.Therefore, the Muslims of this country are today forbidden to fight in the name of religion and to slaughter those who reject the Islamic Law.God Almighty has clearly forbidden by sword in a Jihad − − time of peace and security." (Tohfah Golarviyyah, p 82) ± "Striving in the cause of Allah, which is designated , is a Jihad − − doctrine the philosophy of which needs to be clearly understood.Failure of its appreciation has caused many people in the middle centuries of Islam, − and in this our own age, to entertain serious misconceptions concerning it, which has rendered the teachings of Islam open to the criticism of its − opponents, whereas Islam is a holy religion which is a mirror of the law of − nature and manifests the glory of God." (British Government and Jihad, p 1) − According to the Holy Qur’an, the Holy War, called , is in Jihad − − 288

Page 289

− reality a holy campaign with the help of the Qur’an to bring about a − spiritual revolution in the world.AjÎJ· AeBÈU ÉI Ç fÇBU Ë , ‘ í æê ä í ä ê × ê æ å æ ê ä ä wa jahid hum bihi jihadan kabira − − − − − And strive against them with it ( ) a great striving (25:53) The Qur’an − The word is derived from the verb which means Jihad Jahada − exerting oneself or striving.In the early period of Islam, in legal Jihad − − terms was defined as 'fighting the unbelievers'.Some scholars considered this to be the 'smaller.The 'greater was said to be the struggle Jihad' Jihad' − − against the inner-self, against one's evil inclinations.Other distinctions were also made in the same vein, which may be summarized as follows: The ' of the heart' refers to the struggle against one's evil Jihad − desires, whilst ' of the tongue' is the forbidding of evil and the Jihad − ordering of good.There is also ' of the hand', which entails carrying Jihad − out and ordering disciplinary measures in order to prevent sinful actions, and finally ' of the sword' which relates to fighting the unbelievers for Jihad − the sake of the faith.......As with older literature, recent writings on devote Jihad Jihad − − more space to the 'smaller , while making mention of the fact that the Jihad' − term ' has a greater connotation than that of fighting.In recent Jihad' Jihad − − literature, the subject of 'greater is said to be the struggle against the Jihad' − lower self ( ).This incorporates any kind of struggle against Jihad al-shaitan − − one's weaknesses in the face of all evil temptations and also the struggle to improve one's inner-self.The term 'greater is said to have originated Jihad' − from a tradition of the Holy Prophet.Upon returning from a battle he is sa reported to have said: 289

Page 290

− jJ·ÜA eBÈV»A Ó»A j¬uÜA eBÈV»A Å¿ BĨUi ê ä æ æ ä ê ä ê æ ä ê ê ä æ æ ä ê ä ê æ ä ê ä æ ä ä raja‘na minal jihadil asghari ilal jihadil akbari − − ± − We are returning from the lesser to the greater Jihad (fighting) Jihad − − (struggle against self) (Kanzul Ummal aljuz al-rabia) ‘ ‘ − − When asked by one of his companions as to what constitutes the greater , he replied, "The against oneself"....Jihad Jihad − −...Another facet of , in recent literature, is that which Jihad Jihad − − ordains Muslims to strive for the benefit of society and, simultaneously, to engage actively in the eradication of all forms of corruption and decadence.That is to say, the intellect should be employed individually or in group form, with the aim of realizing Islamic values in modern society.− This leads onto another connotation of , namely, 'educational Jihad Jihad' − − ( ).This form of is characterized by argumentation Jihad al-tarbiyyat Jihad − − and demonstration, and is often referred to as the ' of tongue' or ' Jihad Jihad − − of the pen'.This form of has its origin in the following Qur’anic Jihad − − verse: È»eBUË ÒÄnZ»A Ò¤§ÌÀ»AË ÒÀ¸Z»BI ¹Ii ½ÎJm Ó»A ªeA ‘ æ å æ ê ä ä ê ä ä ä æ ê ä ê æ ä æ ä ê ä æ ê æ ê ä éê ä ê æê ä Ð ê å æå ÅnYA ÓÇ ÓN»BI å È ä æ ä ä ê æ êì ê ud‘u ila sabili rabbika bilhikmati wal mau‘izatil hasanati wa − − ± ± ± jadil hum billati hiya ahsan − − ± Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in a way that is best.(16:126)...The " of pen" is deemed by the Promised Messiah and Jihad − Mahdi to be the most important form of in modern times.as Jihad − − 290

Page 291

− (A Study of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's Exposition of Jihad, ± ± − − ± Tayyba Seema Ahmad, pp 18-19) ± ± In his various writings, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi uses the as − Qur’an, and those that he considers to be authentic, to throw light Ah dith a − − − on what he regards to be the true nature of.He argues that, through Jihad − the ages, the concept of has gradually become misunderstood.Even Jihad − the writings of those classical scholars are rejected, who advocate that the killing of infidels under the banner of is lawful, or that Islam teaches Jihad − − conversion by force, or that the penalty for apostasy is death.Such overt infringements of human rights are rejected by the Promised Messiah as as totally un-Islamic.The Promised Messiah saw his mission as the Messiah as − and as one to revive those true teachings of Islam that had become Mahdi − − lost, of which was one.Jihad − (A Study of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's Exposition of Jihad, ± ± − − ± Tayyba Seema Ahmad, p 28) ± ± Thus, is of three types: Jihad − 1.The that is waged against Satan and satanic teachings Jihad − and designs, and efforts to convey the message of Allah and − to preach the Word of God, is the great ( ).Jihad Jihad Kabir − − − 2.The against oneself which in Islamic idiom is called Jihad − − the greatest ( ).Jihad Jihad Akbar − − 3.The that is waged against the enemy of freedom of Jihad − conscience; this is called the lesser ( ).Jihad Jihad Asghar − − ± In his book, (Jesus in India) the Promised Masih Hindustan Mein , − ± − Messiah and Mahdi writes that there are only three instances in which as − Islam permits the use of force.Firstly in the act of self defense, secondly as − a form of retribution, for example the death penalty for murder, and thirdly to establish freedom for Muslims who are killed as a result of their 291

Page 292

− religious beliefs.(A Study of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's Exposition of ± ± − − ± Jihad,Tayyba Seema Ahmad, p 32, Jesus in India, p 12) ± ± The Promised Messiah and Mahdi said the following in reply to a as − Christian priest who had blamed Islam to be a religion of violence and − Jihad by the sword: − "We should know that the Holy Qur’an does not command fighting − without reason.But commands to fight only those who prevent God's people from accepting faith, and from following God's commandments, and offering worship, and the Qur’an commands to fight with those who − fight with Muslims for no reason, turn the faithful out of their homes and countries, convert people with use of force, and want to destroy the religion of Islam, and prevent people from accepting Islam.The wrath of − − God is on such people, and it is mandatory for the faithful to fight with them if they do not desist." (Nurul Haq, p 63) − ± 292

Page 293

− 11 THE KHILAFAT-I-AHMADIYYA − ± God Almighty promised (The guided ) Khilafat-i-Rashida Khilafat − − − to Muslims.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an : − ÈݼbNnλ OZ¼v»A A̼À§ Ë ¸Ä¿ AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A ɼ»Af§Ë ‘ ‘ æ å ì ä ê æ ä æ ä ä ê Ð ê Õ å ê ä ä æ å æ ê æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì å Õ ä ä ä È» ÅĸÀλ Ë È¼J³ Å¿ ÅÍh»A ±¼bNmA BÀ· ~iÜAÓ¯ ‘ ‘ æ å ä ì ä éê ä å ä ä ð æ ê ê æ ä æ ê ä æ ê ì ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ê æ æ ä ê BÄ¿A ȯÌa f¨I Å¿ ÈÄ»fJÎ»Ë ÁÈ» zMiA Ôh»A ÈÄÍe ‘ ‘  ‘ Èí æ ä æ ê ê æ ä ê æ ä æ ë é ê æ å ìä é ê ä å ä ä æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì å å ä æ ê ÁÇ ¹ »ËB¯ ¹»g f¨I j°· Å¿ Ë B Îq ÓI ÆÌ·jrÍ Ü ÓÄÃËfJ¨Í s s å å ä Ó ê ê å ä ä ê Ð ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ä ä È Ü æ ä æ ê ä æ å ê æ å ä æ êä æ å å æ ä ÆÌ´n°»A , ä æ å ê Ð æ wa ‘adalla hulladhina amanu minkum wa ‘amilussalihati la − − − − ± ± − ± − yastakhli fannahum fil ardi kamastakhla falladhina min ± − qablihim wala yu makkinanna lahum dinahu mulladhirtada − ± − lahum wala yubaddi lanna hummim ba‘di khaufihim amna ya‘budunani la yushrikuna bi shai’a wa man kafara ba‘da − − − − − dhalika fa ula’ika humul fasiqun − − − − Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works that − He will surely make them Successors in the earth, as He made Successors from among those who were before them; and that He will surely establish for them their religion which He has chosen for them; and that He will surely give them in exchange security after their fear; They will worship and peace 293

Page 294

− Me, they will not associate anything with Me.Then whoso is ungrateful and after that, they will be the rebellious.(24:56) The was established by God Almighty after the demise of Khilafat − the Holy Prophet , when Allah appointed Hadrat Abu Bakr to be the first sa ra − ± ± − successor.After many centuries, Muslims lost the blessings of as Khilafat, − was prophesied by the Holy Prophet.sa The Holy Prophet said: sa ÆA ÕBq AgA BȨ¯jÍ ÁQ ÆÌ¸M ÆA ɼ»A ÕBq B¿ Á¸Î¯ ÑÌJÄ»A ÆÌ¸M æ Ú ä Ø ä ä ê ä å ä æ ä ì å ä æ å ä æ Ú å Õ ä Ø ä ä æ å æ ê å ì å í å æ å ä ÆA ɼ»A ÕBq B¿ ÆÌ¸N¯ ÑÌJÄ»A XBÈÄ¿ Ó¼§ Ò¯Ýa ÆÌ¸M ÁQ BȨ¯jÍ æ Ú å Õ ä Ø ä ä å æ å ä ä ê ì å í ê ä æ ê Ð ä Ñ ää ê å æ å ä ì å ä ä ä æ ä ByB§ B¸¼¿ ÆÌ¸M ÁQ BȨ¯jÍ ÆA ɼ»A ÕBq AgA BȨ¯jÍ ÁQ ÆÌ¸M þ ä í æ å å æ å ä ì å ä ä ä æ ä æ Ú å Õ ä Ø ä ä ê ä å ä æ ä ì å ä æ å ä ÆÌ¸M ÁQ BȨ¯jÍ ÆA ÕBq AgA BȨ¯jÍ ÁQ ÆÌ¸Í ÆA ɼ»A ÕBq B¿ ÆÌ¸Î¯ å æ å ä ì å ä ä ä æ ä æ Ú ä Ø ä ä ê ä å ä æ ä ì å ä æ å ä æ Ú å Õ ä Ø ä ä å æ å ä ä ÆA ÕBq AgA BȨ¯jÍ ÁQ ÆÌ¸M ÆA ɼ»A ÕBq B¿ ÆÌ¸N¯ ÒÍjJU B¸¼¿ æ Ú ä Ø ä ä ê ä å ä æ ä ì å ä æ å ä æ Ú å Õ ä Ø ä ä å æ å ä ä í ì ê æ ä í æ å _ O¸m ÁQ ÑÌJÄ»A XBÈÄ¿ Ó¼§ Ò¯Ýa ÆÌ¸M ÁQ BȨ¯jÍ ä ä ä ì å ê ì å í ê ä æ ê Ð ä Ñ ää ê å æ å ä ì å ä ä ä æ ä taku nunnabuwwatu fikum ma sha’allahu ’an takuna thumma − − − − − − yarfa‘uha idha sha’a ’an yarfa‘aha thumma takunu khilafatun − − − − − − ‘ala minhajinnubuwwati fa takunu ma sha’allahu ’an takuna − − − − − − − thumma yarfa‘uha idha sha’allahu ’an yarfa‘aha thumma − − − − − takunu mulkan ‘addan fa yakunu masha’allahu ’an yakuna − − ± ± − − − − − thumma yarfa‘uha idha sha’a ’an yarfa‘aha thumma takunu − − − − − mulkan jabriyyatan fa takunu ma sha’allahu ’an takuna − − − − − thumma yarfa‘uha idha sha’a ’an yarfa‘aha thumma takunu − − − − − khilafatun ‘ala minha jinnubuwwati thumma sakata.− − − "O Muslims, this Prophethood will remain with you as long as Allah − wishes it to remain.Then it would come to an end, to be replaced with 294

Page 295

− Khilafat which would be on the pattern of Prophethood (As it is a − supplement to it) and would remain as long as Allah Wills.Then this − Khilafat would also come to an end.The rulers who cut (Are cruel to − people) will replace them for as long as Allah Wills.Then this period will − also come to an end.Then there will be the rule of usurpers, and that period too will come to an end.After that Khilafat, on the pattern of − Prophethood, would re-emerge." After saying this, the Holy Prophet did sa not add any further comments.' (Musnad Ahmad, Awwal Musnadal Kufiyyin, Vol.4, P 273) ± − − Need for a Khilafat − Hadrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad writes: ra ± ± − − ± "God Almighty does everything through wisdom and far-sightedness, and there is always a good reason and logic behind it.According to nature's physical laws, man has only a limited life span, but the task of reformation and training of society requires a much longer time.So, Allah has established the system of after the system of Khilafat − − Prophethood.The continues and carries on the task of the Khalifah − Prophet.The seed sown by the Prophet is protected and nurtured by the Khalifah till it becomes a strong and sturdy tree.− It shows that in fact is an offshoot or branch of the system Khilafat − of Prophethood, that is why the Holy Prophet says that after every sa Prophet the system of is established." Khilafat − Ò¯Ýa BÈN¨JM ÜA ¡³ ÑÌJà OÃB· B¿ Ñ ää ê ä æ ä êä ì ê î Ñ ì åä æ ä ä ä ma kanat nabuwwatun qatta illa tabi‘at-ha khilafatun − − ±± − − − 'There has been no Prophet who has not been followed by.' Khilafat − (Khasa ‘isulkubra, part II, p 115) − − − 295

Page 296

− Establishment of Khilafat − As the system of is a branch of the system of Khilafat − Prophethood, so Allah has kept the task of appointing the in His Khalifah − − own hands, just like the appointing of the Prophets is done by Him.Also Allah chooses the person who is the most eligible to become a.Khalifah − − Through the blessings of Prophethood, a well trained group of pious believers comes into being during the time of the Prophet.Allah Almighty, − as a blessing allows them to share the task of selecting the.Khalifah − In this way, Allah blesses His pious people ( with the The momins) − satisfaction of their obedience and cooperation with the appointed Khalifah Khalifah.Hence, apparently it might seem that a is chosen by a − − group of pious people, but in reality everything happens according to the Will of Allah; only His Will prevails.− That is why Allah has repeatedly said in the Holy Qur’an, that He − − is the One Who chooses and appoints the ; and to explain this Khalifah − point the Holy Prophet said, that after him, Allah and the will sa momins − accept no one else but Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq as the.ra Khalifah ± ± − ± − − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has also explained in his book as − " ", that on the demise of the Holy Prophet Muhammad , Allah Al-Wasiyyat sa ± ± − Himself chose Hadrat Abu Bakr to support and lead the Muslims.He ra ± ± − further said that after himself, there would be other individuals who would continue and complete the work.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "Whosoever perseveres unto the last, witnesses this miracle, as happened at the time of Hadrat Abu Bakr when the death of the Holy ra ± ± − Prophet was considered to be untimely and many nomads turned sa apostates, and the followers of the Prophet were unnerved by deep grief.sa 296

Page 297

− At that critical hour, Allah made Hadrat Abu Bakr stand up firmly, thus ra − ± ± − showing His powerful hand a second time...." (Ruhani Khaza’in Vol 20, Risala Al-Wasiyyat, p 5) − − − − − ± Signs of Khilafat − How can we identify a true ? A righteous has two Khalifah Khalifah − − main signs.One of them has been quoted in the Holy Qur’an as follows: − Ó¯ ÈݼbNnλ OZ¼v»A A̼À§Ë ¸Ä¿ AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A ɼ»Af§Ë ‘ ‘ ê æ å ì ä ê æ ä æ ä ä ê Ð ê Õ å ê ä ä æ å æ ê æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì å Õ ä ä ä ȼJ³ Å¿ ÅÍh»A ±¼bNmA BÀ· ~iÜA ‘ ð æ ê ê æ ä æ ê ä æ ê ì ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ê æ æ ä wa‘adalla hulladhina amanu minkum wa ‘amilussalihati la − − − − ± ± − ± − yastakhlifanna hum filardi kamastakhla falladhina min ± − qablihim.Allah has promised to those among you who believe and do good works − that He will surely make them Successors in the earth, as He made Successors those who were before them.(24:56) from among Allah, through a true , makes the religion stronger and He Khalifah − − changes the condition of the from fear to that of peace.These momins Khulafa worship no one but Allah.− − A is identified by his spiritual fruits, that become a part of Khalifah − his personality, just like a tree is identified by its fruits.The second sign, as quoted in the , is that although in reality a is appointed Hadith Khalifah ± − − according to the Will of Allah, but it also involves the decision making of − the too.momins 297

Page 298

− Blessings of Khilafat − The establishment of the system of is a great blessing of Khilafat − Allah.He has established the system of to protect His people from Khilafat − − the huge loss and setback that results due to the death of the Prophet.The job of a Prophet is not only to preach the right path, but it also involves the moral and spiritual training of the people and to teach them discipline.After the death of a Prophet, all these responsibilities are carried on by the , who keeps the community together instead of letting Khalifah − them fall apart.In addition to this, a Prophet promotes mutual love and teaches people about unity and cooperation with each other.After the Prophet, a Khalifah continues to promote unity and brotherhood among people.− The Holy Prophet has called as a great blessing, and sa Khilafat − cursed those people who try to create disorder in the society.Functions and Powers of Khilafat − Khilafat is a spiritual system in which authority is delegated from − above.Prophethood has a wide range of authorities within the limits of Islamic Law ( ); and since is a branch of Prophethood, it Shari‘ah Khilafat − − also has a wide range of authorities.In these days of democracy, young people are surprised how a single person can be entitled to such a huge range of authority.But they should know that: 1.Firstly, is not a part of any democratic system of Khilafat − this world, but it is a part of a spiritual and religious system, in which authority is delegated from above, and a Khalifah − 298

Page 299

− always has the support and blessings of Allah with him.− 2.Secondly, who could question the broad authority of a Khalifah Khalifah since the is bound by the limits − − prescribed by the Islamic law ( ).Shari‘ah − Since, apparently, the appointment of a involves the group Khalifah − of pious people, a is obligated to consult them in all important Khalifah − matters.However, he is not obligated to do as they suggest.This also helps in the religious training of the community.Era of Khilafat − Since is a gift of God, and it helps in the completion of the Khilafat − task of Prophethood, the establishment of has two main Khilafat − conditions: 1.First, there should be people eligible for it in the community.2.Second, there should be a need for for the Khilafat − completion of Prophethood.Since only Allah has the best knowledge of both these conditions, − He only knows the true time for.The Holy Qur’an says about Khilafat − − Prophethood: ÆA ÊeBJ§ Å¿ ÕBrÍ Å¿ ¼§ Êj¿A Å¿ `Ëj»BI Ò¸ ¼À»A ¾lÄÍ  s æ ä × Ø ê ä ê æ ê å Ø ä ì æ ä Ð ä × ê æ ä æ ê ê æ í ê ä ä Ó ê ê ä æ å é ê ä å ÆÌ´MB¯ BÃA ÜA É»A Ü ÉÃA AËihÃA , ( ê æ å ì ä ä ä ì Ø ê ä Ð ê ä Ø ì ä æ Ø å ê æä yu nazzilul mala’ikata birruhi min amrihi ‘ala mañyyasha-’u − − ± − − − min ‘ibadihi an andhiru annahu la ilaha illa ana fattaqun − − − − − − − − − 299

Page 300

− He sends down the angels with revelation by His command on whomsoever of His servants He pleases saying, 'Warn people that there is no God but I; so fear Me alone.' (16:3) Since the system of is a branch of Prophethood, the same Khilafat − rules apply to too.Only Allah knows whom He would appoint as Khilafat, − − His and for how long.Khalifah − So, as long as there are people eligible for , and there is a Khilafat − need for the continuation and completion of the task of Prophethood, the system of will continue.Khilafat − (A summary of an essay by Hadrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad ,The ra ± ± − − ± Ahmadiyya Gazette, April/May, 1999 pp 15-17) ± The Promised Messiah and Mahdi said about - The as Khilafat − − Second Manifestation of the Power of God: "It has always been the Way of God for doing things, a way He has followed ever since the Day He created this world, that He comes to the help of His apostles and Messengers and makes them dominant - as He has said in the Holy Qur’an: − Ó¼mi Ë BÃA ÅJ¼«Ü ɼ»A KN· æ È ê å å ä ä ä ì ä ê æ ä ä å Õ ä ä ä kataballahu la aghlibanna ana wa rusuli − − − Allah has decreed: 'Most surely I will prevail, I and My Messengers'.− (58:22) The meaning of dominance, in this context, is that it is the desire and aim of the Prophets that the truth of the Way of God should come to be fully established on earth, to the extent that no one can resist its force.Similarly, Allah manifests with powerful signs the truth of their claim, and − sows at their hands the seed of righteousness, which they want to spread.But He does not fully complete this mission at their hands, causing them 300

Page 301

− to die in conditions which may appear to have a color of failure, and apparently gives to their opponents an opportunity to heap ridicule, mockery and sarcasm on them.When they have had their laugh, then He shows another manifestation of His powerful hand, creating a set of circumstances, which work for full attainment of the aims, which were not fully achieved before.In short, He shows two manifestations of His Power: firstly at the hands of His Prophets; secondly at a time following the death of the Prophet when obstacles show up and the enemies gain power, and think that the mission of the Prophet has been fatally wounded.They believe that the community will now be exterminated.Even some members of the movement entertain doubts with regard to their future and begin to despair, as if their backs were broken.Many unfortunate ones among them go so far as to apostatize.Then Allah once again shows a strong manifestation of − His power and saves the falling community.Allah's Divine Power is manifested twice.I appeared from God as − a manifestation; and after me there shall come other persons who will be the second manifestation of Divine Power--- ---And the coming of that manifestation would be better for you because it would be everlasting, of which the link shall not break until the end of the world.And the second manifestation cannot come except after I am gone.But when I go away, Allah shall send the second manifestation − for you, and it shall stay with you for ever ---" (Al-Wasiyyat, pp 6-7, Ruhani Khaza’in vol.20, pp 304-305) ± − − − − Election of Khalifatul Masih − − ± Islamic teaching regarding appointment and status of a is Khalifah − − that the office of can under no circumstances be inherited.Rather, Khilafat − Khilafat is a holy trust which is entrusted to a pious member of the − Jama at Khalifah ‘ through election.Islam further teaches that although the − − − is appointed through elections, in fact, God Almighty is guiding the members towards election of a righteous and able person as.This Khalifah − 301

Page 302

− is such a subtle and spiritual system of appointment of a that it Khalifah − might be difficult for the worldly people to understand.Once a person is elected as , then according to Islamic teachings, all members of Khalifah − − the community are required to fully obey him.At the same time, it is required that the carry out his duties as through Khalifah Khalifah − − consultation and taking into consideration the views of the members.However, it is not incumbent upon him to always accept the views and recommendations of the members.The (successor to the Promised Messiah and Khalifatul Masih − − ± Mahdi ) is elected to the office by voting by the members of the Electoral as − College, which was established for this purpose by Hadrat Musleh ± ± ± ± Ma ud ‘ ra ra , Khalifatul Masih II.During the life of a Caliph, the Electoral − − − ± College works under the supervision of the Caliph.However, after the demise of a Caliph, the Electoral College becomes completely independent and elects the next Caliph.During the election of the Caliph, names are proposed and seconded by the members of the Electoral College, and then they vote for the proposed names by raising their hands.( Q/A Session with Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV , August 24-26, 2001, aba ± ± − − ± Mannheim, Germany) Ahmadi Muslims firmly believe that it is Allah who selects the ± − − Khalifah Khilafat-i-Rashida as he did in the ; for whenever an election of − − − the occurs, the hearts and minds of the electors are all turned Khalifah − towards the same person.This belief further increases the sense of peace and security that the provides for the.When a Khalifah Jama'at Khalifah − − − has been elected, every man, woman, and child of the community must render complete and utter obedience to him, and reaffirm their Bai at ‘ (allegiance) to him.Status of Khalifatul Masih − − ± The (successor to the Promised Messiah and Khalifatul Masih − − ± Mahdi ) is the Supreme Head of the Ahmadiyya Community.The presence as − ± 302

Page 303

− of the is a great blessing from Allah for the.He is the Khalifah Jama at ‘ − − − spiritual leader of every Ahmadi, and the beacon of light towards which ± − every member looks for guidance.Whenever, a makes a scheme Khalifah − or plan for the community, he does so with Divine guidance and assistance.He is concerned for the welfare of every member of the community.When faced with illness or problems, Ahmadis often write to ± − the for prayers, and immediately it seems that their burden Khalifah − becomes lighter.THE KHULAFA-I-AHMADIYYAT − ± Since 1908, the year of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's demise, as − there have been four.Allah bestowed His special favors on each Khulafa − − one, and the has flourished and prospered during each.Jama at Khilafat ‘ − − 303

Page 304

− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih I ra (1841-1914 AD) ± ± − ± (Period of Khilafat: May 27, 1908-March 13, 1914 AD) − Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin was the first successor to the Promised ra ± ± − − − Messiah and Mahdi.He was born in 1841 at Bhera, Punjab, which is now as − a part of Pakistan.His father's name was Ghulam Rasul and his mother's − − name was Nur Bakht.His lineage can be traced back to Hadrat ‘Umar Bin − ± ± Khattab.His family, from the very beginning, had an immense love for the ±± − Holy Qur’an, which Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin fully inherited.Possessing ra − ± ± − − − vast religious knowledge, Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin had a very deep ra ± ± − − − understanding of the Holy Qur’an.− At the age of 25, he traveled to the cities of Mecca and Medina.There he studied and performed.He was a learned scholar of Hadith Hajj ± − ± Qur’anic studies, languages and natural medicine.God has given him a − miraculous healing power and his prayers were abundantly accepted.People from remote corners of India visited him for treatment.When the Maharajah of Kashmir heard of his fame, he appointed him as his court − − physician.For the first time, Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin heard of Hadrat Mirza ra ± ± − − − ± ± − Ghulam Ahmad from a person named Sheikh Ruknuddin of District as − ± Sargodha.Soon after, he went to see Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad in as ± ± − − ± Qadian, who had not yet made any proclamation about himself.Hadrat ± ± Maulvi Nuruddin , at very first sight of him, recognized the truth which he ra − − − personified.Later on, as soon as he heard of Hadrat Ahmad's claim, he ± ± ± immediately offered to enter into a covenant with him.Hadrat Maulvi ± ± − Nuruddin was a most favorite companion of the Promised Messiah and ra − − Mahdi , and was the first to enter into on March 23, 1889.as Bai‘at − In 1892, he started the construction of a large clinic in Bhera.In April 1893, the construction of his clinic was near completion.He went to Qadian on a short visit.But when the time came for him to take leave, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi asked him to stay a little longer, which he as − 304

Page 305

− complied.After two or three days, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − suggested that he should ask his wife to join him in Qadian so that he should have someone to look after him.Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin wrote to ra ± ± − − − his wife that she should come over to Qadian.So he stayed on in Qadian and never even thought of returning to Bhera.Such was his complete submission and obedience to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.He as − established a clinic in Qadian and started giving free treatment to the poor.He taught the Holy Qur’an and its commentary to the children of the − Promised Messiah and Mahdi and to hundreds of other students.He also as − completed translation of the Holy Qur’an.He was appointed President of − the Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Qadian.± ± Promised Messiah and Mahdi passed away on May 26, 1908 at as − Lahore.His body was brought to Qadian.Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin was ra ± ± − − − elected on May 27, 1908 and later that day, he led the funeral Khalifah − prayer of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − During his , from May 27, 1908 to March 13, 1914, Hadrat Khilafat − ± ± Maulvi Nuruddin established various institutions, including the ra Jama'at − − − − treasury, schools and publications.He also vigorously upheld the institution of against a small minority element which wanted to Khilafat − undermine the He passed away on March 13, 1914 AD.Khilafat.− Khilafat Some of the important events of his are as follows: − - May 30, 1908: or treasury was set up.Baitul Mal − - March 1, 1909: He founded Madrissah Ahmadiyya.± - March 5, 1910: He laid foundation of Masjid Nur.− - November 8, 1910: He fell down from his horse and received a serious head injury.- July 25, 1912: He laid the foundation stone of Ta‘limul Islam − − High School.- June 19, 1913: The Newspaper was published for the Al-Fadl ± first time.In the same time the first foreign mission was established in England.305

Page 306

− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra (1889-1965) ± ± − − ± (Period of Khilafat: March 14, 1914-November 8, 1965) − One of the prophecies revealed to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi by God Almighty was that He would bestow on him a son who as − would be a sign of Allah's Mercy, Power, Grace and Beneficence, and − through whom the message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat would be carried to − ± the ends of the earth.The prophecy was fulfilled in the person of Hadrat ± ± Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad , who at the demise of Khalifatul ra − − − ± − ± − Masih I , became the second successor of the Promised Messiah and ra − ± Mahdi at the young age of 25 years old.Therefore, he was also known as as − Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud, the Promised Reformer.± ± ± ± − He got his primary education in a school in Qadian and then in the Ta‘limul Islam High School when it started in 1898.He could not do well − − in his studies due to his persistent ill-health.His academic carrier came to an end in March 1905, when he failed the Matriculation examination.He started learning the translation of the Holy Qur’an and the − Ahadith from Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin.Moreover, he began his ra − − ± ± − − − independent study of religion, history, literature and various other subjects.He developed into a great scholar and an eloquent speaker.Thus the following prophecy of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi regarding as − Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud was clearly fulfilled in his person: ± ± ± ± −...He will be extremely intelligent and understanding and will be meek of the heart and will be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge.Surah Fatihah In 1907, an angel taught him the commentary of the , − − ± the first chapter of the Holy Qur’an.From then onward, he was gifted with − an unusual knowledge of the commentary of the Holy Qur’an.− In February 1911, he founded.In 1912, he Anjuman Ansarullah ± − − performed pilgrimage to Mecca.In 1913, he started the publication of the newspaper,.Al-Fadl ± 306

Page 307

− Election as Khalifah and Split in the Jama'at − − On March 13, 1914, the first successor of the promised Messiah and Mahdi , Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin , passed away and the as ra − ± ± − − − newly born Ahmadiyya Movement was faced with a serious crisis.There ± was a small faction in the Community, led by Maulvi Muhammad ‘Ali , ra − ± − who wanted to do away with the system of.During the of Khilafat Khilafat − − Hadrat Maulvi Nuruddin these dissenters could not freely give voice to ra ± ± − − − their feelings.At his death, therefore, they openly opposed this system and wanted the to be headed by an (Association) rather than Jama'at Anjuman − a.Khalifah − The day after the demise of Khalifatul Masih I (on March ra − − ± 14, 1914), his Will was read out to some 2,000 Ahmadis, who had ± − gathered in the mosque.In his Will, the Khalifatul Masih had suggested − − ± that the Community elect a new successor.Maulvi Syed Muhammad − ± Ahsan then stood up and formally proposed the name of Mirza ra ± − Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad.After this, the entire congregation shouted, ra − − ± − ± "We second it" Bai‘at.Shortly afterwards, all present took the , or the oath of allegiance, at the hand of Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad , now the ra − − − ± − ± Second of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.Khalifah as − − Maulvi Muhammad ‘Ali , and other dissidents, left the ra − ± − congregation without performing.In a few days, they even left Bai at ‘ Qadian and moved to Lahore where they founded their own organization under the name of.The followers of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Isha‘at Islam ± − − Maulvi Muhammad ‘Ali are commonly referred as and ra Lahori Ahmadis − ± − − − ± − differ with the Ahmadiyya on two important points: Jama at ‘ ± − 1.The regard the Promised Messiah and Lahori Ahmadis − − ± − Mujaddid Mahdi as only a (Reformer) and not a Prophet.as − 307

Page 308

− 2.As a consequence of the above belief, they argue that the successors of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi should not as − be called.Khalifah − Today, the members of the at Lahore are only a very Anjuman small fraction of the Ahmadi Muslims living all over the world.± − The achievements of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , Musleh Ma‘ud , ra ± ± − − ± ± ± − as for 52 years are too numerous to mention here, but one of the Khalifah − most important accomplishments was the organization and establishment of foreign missions around the world, including, the United States in 1920.He established the schemes to fund Tehrik-i-Jadid and Waqf-i-Jadid ± − − − missionary work, and the to train missionaries.Jami a Ahmadiyya ‘ − ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II organized the administrative body, the ra ± ± − − ± Sadr Anjuman Jama at , of the into various departments and created ‘ ± − auxiliary organizations for men, women, and children.Several publications were begun under his guidance and he himself wrote numerous books.Through Divine guidance, he wrote a 10-volume commentary on the Holy Qur’an in Urdu, known as , and also wrote a short Tafsir-i-Kabir − − − − commentary of the Holy Qur’an, the.He was also a great Tafsir-i-Saghir − − − orator, and many of his speeches would continue for hours.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II visited Europe twice.First time, he ra ± ± − − ± went to London to attend the Wembley Conference, at which representatives of different religions presented the beauties of their religion.At this Conference, an essay written by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − ± II in Urdu entitled, "Ahmadiyyat, the True Islam" was read, after ra − ± − translation into English.In 1954, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II was attacked with the ra ± ± − − ± intention to kill him.He was badly injured but survived and recovered from the wounds of the attack.However, he still suffered from some ill-effects of the attack.Then he went to Europe for a second time, in 1955, for treatment.308

Page 309

− During his tenure as , in 1947 at the time of Khalifatul Masih − − ± partition of Indian subcontinent into India and Pakistan, millions of members of Ahmadiyya had to migrate from India to Pakistan.At Jama'at − ± this occasion, under the guidance and supervision of Hadrat Jama'at − ± ± Khalifatul Masih II established a new Center at Rabwah, near River ra − − ± Chenab in District Jhang.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II passed away during the night of ra ± ± − − ± November 8 and 9 in 1965.Hadrat Mirza N ir Ahmad , who was earlier as rh ± ± − − ± ± elected as led the funeral prayer of Hadrat Khalifatul Khalifatul Masih III, − − ± ± ± − Masih II on November 9, 1965 in the grounds of , ra Bahishti Maqbarah − ± − Rabwah, where he was buried by the side of his mother, Hadrat Ummul ± ± Mu minin ’ , Sayyedah Nusrat Jahan Begum.More than 50,000 Ahmadis ra − ± − ± − from all over Pakistan and from abroad took part in the funeral.Some of the Writings of the Khalifatul Masih II ra − − ± Tafsir-i-Kabir The Large Commentary of the Holy Qur’an − − − Tafsir-i-Saghir The Short Commentary of the Holy Qur’an − ± − − Life of the Holy Prophet sa The Achievements of the Promised Messiah as Da watul Amir Invitation to the Chief ‘ − (English: Invitation to Ahmadiyyat) ± Islam main Ikhtilafat ka Aghaz The Origin of Schism in Islam − − − − − − Tuhfatul Maluk A Present for the Kings − Haqiqatun Nabuwwat The Nature of the Prophethood ± − Sayr-i-Ruhani The Spiritual Stroll − ± − Inqilab-i-Haqiqi The True Revolution − ± − − Hindustan ki Siyasi Mas‘ala ka Hal The Solution of the Political Problem of − − India Paigham-i-Ahmadiyyat The Message of Ahmadiyyat − ± ± Fada‘il al-Qur’an The Excellences of the Qur’an ± − − − Hasti Bari Ta ala The Existence of God ‘ − − − − Mala’ikatullah The Angels of God − − Islam ka Inqalabi Nizam The Revolutionary System of Islam − − − ± − − Dibacha Tafsirul Qur’an Introduction to the Study of the Holy − − − − Qur’an − 309

Page 310

− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III (1909-1982) rh ± ± − − ± (Period of Khilafat: November 8, 1965-June 9, 1982) − Hadrat as of the Promised Mirza N ir Ahmad , the third rh Khalifah ± ± − − ± ± − Messiah and Mahdi as was born on November 16, 1909.His birth was − foretold by God Almighty in a revelation to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi : as − I shall give you a boy who will be your grandson.(Haqiqatul Wahi, p.95) ± − − Hadrat a as became at the age of thirteen, Mirz N ir Ahmad rh Hafiz ± ± − − ± − ± when he completed the memorization of the Holy Qur’an.In July 1929, he − obtained the degree of (Religious Scholar), from the Punjab Maulvi Fadil − − ± University.In 1934, he graduated from Government College, Lahore.He married in August 1934.One month later he left Qadian for England for higher studies.In November 1938, he came back to Qadian after obtaining his Masters degree from Oxford University.Soon after his return from higher studies, Hadrat a as started serving, Mirz N ir Ahmad rh ± ± − − ± first as Professor, and then, from 1939 to 1944, as Principal of Jami‘a − Ahmadiyya, Qadian.From May 1944 to November 1965 (i.e.up to his ± election as , he served as Principal Ta‘limul Islam College, Khalifah − − − Rabwah.He also served as from 1939 Sadr Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya ± − ± to 1949.From the year 1949, when himself Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ± ± − − ± took hold of as its President, Hadrat a Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Mirz − ± ± ± − N ir Ahmad as acted as up to November 1954.The same year rh Na’ib Sadr − ± − ± he was appointed From Sadr Majlis Ansarullah.June 1948 to June 1950, ± ± − − he played an important role in the Furqan Force Battalion, An Ahmadi − ± − volunteer force, put at the disposal of Government of Pakistan, for the 310

Page 311

− cause of Muslim freedom-fighters of Kashmir.In May 1955, he was appointed of (Main administrative body of Sadr Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± ± the ) by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II.Jama'at ra − ± ± − − ± Upon the demise of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , Hadrat Mirza ra ± ± − − ± ± ± − Nasir Ahmad was elected to be the third on November 8, 1965.rh Khalifah − ± ± − The eldest son Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II was highly educated and of ra ± ± − − ± well versed in religious knowledge.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III launched two major schemes: The rh ± ± − − ± Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation, which funded the continuation of the projects ± began by his father , and the Scheme Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud Nusrat Jahan ra ± ± ± ± − ± − to organize long-term humanitarian efforts in West Africa such as schools and hospitals.Through this scheme, several medical centers and hundreds of schools were set up.During his , Ha rat Khalifatul Masih III encouraged Khilafat d rh − ± ± − − ± students to pursue higher education, and established numerous educational institutions.Administrative buildings and mosques were built during his Khilafat, Masjid Aqsa Basharat Mosque including in Rabwah, and the in − ± − − Spain.It was at the occasion of laying the foundation stone of Basharat − Mosque he announced the popular Ahmadiyya motto: ± "Love for All; Hatred for None" Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III delivered his last Friday Sermon on rh ± ± − − ± May 21, 1982 at Rabwah, and on May 23 he left for Islamabad.He fell ill on May 26 and passed away during the night of June 8 and 9, 1982 at 12:45 am.His body was brought from Islamabad to Rabwah on 9 June, th and on 10 June Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad Khalifatul Masih IV led hi th , aba s ± ± − ± − ± − − ± funeral prayers in the grounds of.He was buried in Bahishti Maqbarah − Bahishti Maqbarah.next to Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II More than ra − ± ± − − ± 100,000 Ahmadis took part in the funeral prayer.± − 311

Page 312

− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV (1928- 2003) rh ± ± − − ± (Period of Khilafat: June 10, 1982- April 19, 2003) − Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad was elected upon the demise rh Khalifah ± ± − ± − ± − of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III on June 10, 1982.As was his predecessor, rh ± ± − − ± he was also a grandson of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and a son of as − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II.However, such a relationship is not a ra ± ± − − ± requirement of Khilafat.− It was in Rabwah, Pakistan, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad was rh ± ± − ± − ± elected.However, the Anti-Ahmadiyya ordinance imposed on Khalifah − ± April 26, 1984 by General Zia-ul-Haq, the then dictator President of − ± Pakistan, made it impossible for Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV to function rh ± ± − − ± as the head of his community while remaining in that country.After due consultation he decided to leave Pakistan immediately.Three days after the promulgation of the ordinance, he took an aeroplane from Karachi and came to London where he resided till his demise.Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad was born on December 18, 1928 in rh ± ± − ± − ± Qadian, India.He was educated in India, Pakistan and in the UK, at the London School of Oriental and African Studies.He was widely traveled and often delivered addresses to audiences, including people from all walks of life and widely different cultures.His addresses and other meetings were often accompanied by "Question and Answer" sessions.He was always ready to respond to questions agitating the minds of his audience on any topic, religious or temporal.His deep understanding of religion pervaded his thinking and his answers.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV lead the to new levels of rh Jama at ‘ ± ± − − ± − unity, zeal and progress.During the last decade of his , more than Khilafat 150 new mosques and missions were established; the Holy Qur’an − wastranslated into more than 56 languages and the grew rapidly.Jama'at − One of the greatest achievements of his was the development of Khilafat − Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA).In 1992, on the occasion of the ± 312

Page 313

Page 314

Page 315

− 28.Luganda 29.Malay 30.Malayalam 31.Manipur 32.Marathi 33.Mende 34.Nepalese 35.Norwegian 36.Oria 37.Pashtu 38.Persian 39.Polish 40.Portuguese 41.Punjabi 42.Russian 43.Saraeiki 44.Sindhi 45.Spanish 46.Sudanese (In 3 Parts) 47.Swahili 48.Swedish 49.Tagalog 50.Tamil 51.Telugu 52.Turkish 53.Tuvalu 54.Urdu (Tafsir Saghir) − − ± − 55.Vietnamese 56.Yoruba Partial t ranslation of the Holy Qur’an in the following 3 languages − has been published by the : Jama'at − 1.Javanese (Vol.1, Part 1-10) 2.Sudanese (First two parts with commentary) 3.Thai (Vol.1, Part 1-10) T ranslations of the Holy Qur’an in the following 23 languages are − ready for printing: 1.Afrikan (South Africa) − 2.Asante Twi (Ghana) 3.Baule (Ivory Coast) 4.Bete (Ivory Coast) 5.Burmese (Burma) 6.Catalan (Spain) 7.Creole (Mauritius) 8.Fula (The Gambia) 9.Hungarian (Hungary) 10.Kanri (India) 11.Kazakh (Kazakhistan) 12.Kijalou (Kenya) 13.Kikongo (Congo) 14.Kiribati (Fiji) 15.Lithunian (U.K.) 16.Malagasy (Mauritius) 17.Mandinka (The Gambia) 18.Sinhala (Sri Lanka) 19.Uzbek (Uzbekstan) 20.Wali (Ghana) 21.Wollof (The Gambia) 22.Xhosa (South Africa) 23.Yao (Tanzania) 315

Page 316

− Translations of the Holy Qur’an are being rendered in the − following languages: 1.Asante Twi (Ghana) 2.Creole (Guinea Bissau) 3.Dagbani (Ghana) 4.Dogri (India) 5.Etsako (Nigeria) 6.Fante (Ghana) 7.Hebrew (Israel) 8.Javanese (Indonesia) 9.Kazakh (Kazakhistan) 10.Khmer (Cambodia) 11.Lingala (Congo - Zaire) 12.Moore (Burkina Faso) 13.Samoan (Fijji) Translations of the Holy Qur’an in the following languages are being − revised: 1.Albanian 2.Bengali 3.Danish 4.English 5.German 6.Gurmukhi 7.Hausa 8.Hindi 9.Italian 10.Luganda 11.Malayalam 12.Persian 13.Russian 14.Spanish 15.Swahili 16.Swedish 17.Tamil 18.Telugu Translations of the Holy Qur’an in the following languages are planned − in the future.These will be published soon: 1.Batakese (Indonesia) 2.Balanta (Guinea Bissau) 3.Bosnian (Bosnia) 4.Kirghiz (Kirghistan) 5.Kurdish Speech delivered by Maulana Munir-ud-Din Shams, Additional Vakilut Tasnif, London, − ± − UK, International Annual Convention, 26-28 July, 2002, Islamabad, London Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV delivered his last Friday Sermon and rh ± ± − − ± held his last Question/Answer session on April 18, 2003 at the Fadl ± Mosque, London.He passed away on April 19, 2003 at 9:30 am due to heart failure.His body was placed at the Mahmud Hall, Fadl Mosque, ± − ± London where thousands of Ahmadis, who came from all over the world, ± − viewed his face.Then his funeral cortege was brought to Islamabad, Tilford, where on 22 April, Hadrat Mirza Masrur Ahmad Khalifatul nd , ± ± − − ± − Masih V led the funeral prayers of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV , and he aba rh − ± ± ± − − ± was buried More than 40,000 Ahmadis from all over the world took part.± − in the funeral prayers.316

Page 317

− Hadrat Khalifatul Masih V (1950- ) aba ± ± − − ± (Period of Khilafat: April 22, 2003 - ) − Hadrat Mirza Masrur Ahmad was elected upon the aba Khalifah ± ± − − ± − demise of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV on April 22, 2003.Maulana Ataul rh ± ± − − ± Mujeeb Rashed, Secretary, has made the following Majlis Shura − announcement regarding election of the in the Khalifatul Masih V aba − − Weekly International of April 25, 2003: Alfadl ± "It is announced for the information of the members of the Ahmadiyya that a meeting of the (Electoral Jama'at Majlis Intikhab ± − − College), appointed by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , was held on Tuesday, ra ± ± − − ± 22 April 2003, after Prayers, at the Fadl Mosque, nd Maghrib and Isha’ − ± London.The meeting was presided by Chaudhary Hameedullah Sahib.The members of the Electoral College took an oath of allegiance to Khilafat-i- − Ahmadiyya and then elected Hadrat Mirza Masrur Ahmad as aba Khalifatul ± ± ± − − ± − Masih.All members of the Electoral College took initiation at the hands of − Hadrat Mirza Masrur Ahmad Then permission was , Khalifatul Masih V.aba ± ± − − ± − − granted to the general community members waiting outside the mosque to come inside the mosque.Thus, over 10,000 members, who were waiting outside, around the mosque, took initiation at the hands of Hadrat Mirza ± ± − Masrur Ahmad.May God Almighty accept and aba aba , Khalifatul Masih V − ± − − bless this election.." Amin − − Hadrat Mirza Masrur Ahmad , who was born , Khalifatul Masih V aba ± ± − − ± − − on September 15, 1950, is a son of Hadrat Mirza Mansur Ahmad and ± ± − − ± Sahibzadi Nasira Begum Sahiba, a great-grandson of the Promised ± − − − ± Messiah and Mahdi , a paternal grandson of Hadrat Mirza Sharif Ahmad as − ± ± − − ± and a maternal grandson of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II In 1977, he ra.± ± − − ± devoted his life and worked from 1977 to 1985 in Ghana.First as Principal of Ahmadiyya Secondary Schools and then as Manager, Ahmadiyya ± ± Agricultural Farm.Before becoming Khalifatul Masih, he was serving the − − ± Jama'at as Nazir A‘la and Amir Muqami in Rabwah, Pakistan.− − ± − − − − 317

Page 318

− 12 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF THE AHMADIYYA MUSLIM JAMA‘AT − The Ahmadiyya is a representation of True Islam.The Jama'at ± − − Jama'at's activities and projects are carried out throughout the world by − only a small staff of missionaries, who have devoted their lives, and by volunteers who sacrifice their time, skills, wealth and property for the sake of Allah.Today, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is found in 175 − ± countries of the world and is vigorously pursuing its goal to unite the world under one spiritual banner.The is active in propagation of Jama'at − true Islam and serving humanity.It has built more than 5000 mosques and − several hundred Mission houses throughout the world.It has also opened clinics and schools globally, and translated the Holy Qur’an into more than − 55 languages.The organizational structure of the includes: Jama'at − 1.Khalifatul Masih − − ± 2.Majlis-i-Mushawarat − 3.Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± 4.Tehrik-i-Jadid, Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± − − ± 5.Waqf-i-Jadid − 6.Local Anjumans KHALIFATUL MASIH − − ± The Supreme Head of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, duly ± − elected in accordance with the rules for the election of the in the Khalifah − Ahmadiyya community and whom all Ahmadis owe allegiance as ± ± − 318

Page 319

− envisaged by the teachings of Islam.− As the Supreme Head of the , directs and Jama'at Khalifatul Masih − − − ± guides the activities, and all institutions and associations within Jama'at's − the are under him.Jama'at − MAJLIS-I-SHURA OR − MAJLIS-I-MUSHAWARAT − Majlis-i-Shura or Majlis-i-Mushawarat is a consultative body.Its − − meeting is usually held once a year.However, can call a Khalifatul Masih − − ± meeting of whenever he desires.This consultative body is Majlis-i-Shura − not under the Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, rather, it is directly under the ± ± Khalifatul Masih.− − ± It is stated in the Holy Qur’an: − KZÍ É¼»A ÆA ɼ»A ¼§ ½·ÌN¯ O¿l§ AgB¯ j¿ÜA Ó¯ ÇiËBq Ë  ‘ í ê å ä Õ ì ê ê È Õ ä ä æ ì ä ä ä ä æ ä ä ä ê ä ê ô æ æ ä ê æ å æ ê ä ä Åμ·ÌNÀ»A , ä æ ê é ê ä ä å æ wa shawir hum fil amri fa idha ‘azamta fatawakkal ‘alallah − − − innallaha yuhibbul mutawakkilin − ± − And consult them in matters of importance; and when thou art determined, then put thy trust in Allah, Surely, Allah loves those who put − − their trust.(3:160) in Him In 1922, the Khalifatul Masih II set up a consultative body ra − − ± ( ) to advise the on many Majlis-i-Shura or Majlis-i-Mushawarat Khalifah − − − important matters related to finance, budget, education, missionary projects and other affairs of the community.This advisory body formally meets at least once every year to render its advice to (At Khalifatul Masih − − ± 319

Page 320

− the international level) or the of a country (At the local Amir Jama'at − − level).Thus, it is an advisory and Consultative Council of Jama'at − Ahmadiyya As an institution it ranks next after in Muslimah.Khalifah ± − sanctity.International Majlis-i-Shura − The International , which is presided by the Majlis Shura − Khalifah Jama'ats of the time, and representatives from all over the − − world participate.Proposals for inclusion in the agenda of the Central International are submitted through the Majlis-i- Shura − Amir Jama ats Markaz of the national or by the (Center).Only ‘ − − such proposals are included in the agenda of the International Majlis-i-Shura Hadrat Khalifatul Masih as have been approved by.− ± ± − − ± The subsequent discussions provide a useful barometer of prevailing trends in the opinion of members.The International primarily comprises Majlis-i-Shura − representatives from the , Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Tehrik-i-Jadid ± ± ± − and including the Private Secretariat; all missionaries Waqf-i-Jadid − in whatever capacity, such delegates of various national , Jama'ats − and invited guests as have been approved by Hadrat Khalifatul ± ± − Masih.− ± The presides over all the proceedings of Khalifatul Masih − − ± International , although routine matters of calling Majlis-i-Shura − speakers in turn may be left to an invited assistant.After (Recitation of the Holy Qur’an), silent Tilawat − − prayers, brief inaugural comments, implementation report of the proposals adopted in the previous and a report on rejected Shura − proposals [e.g.a proposal already rejected in any of the past three years or proposals of purely administrative or domestic nature, or a proposal concerning the interpretation of which should be Shari‘ah − submitted through the (The Chief Jurist of the Mufti Silsilah − 320

Page 321

− Jama'at) at the Center] are presented by the secretary of − Majlis-i-Shura.Then, subcommittees may be nominated to go over − the proposals or the entire general body may go over the proposals.Delegates render their opinions freely, independent of any partisan or vested interests and above all speaking the truth straight-forwardly recognizing that God Almighty watches over them and holds them accountable for the discharge of the trust reposed in them.The is not a parliament; indeed there is no Majlis-i-Shura − other body as unique as the Ahmadiyya.The Majlis-i-Shura ± − participants act with (righteousness) and are conscious that Taqwa Allah watches over them and keeps an eye on their account.− The comments, or issues instructions, or Khalifatul Masih − − ± announces his decision on the proposals during the course of his observations but may reserve the matter for further reflection.He generally accepts the advice given by the majority but if he is of the view that the advice runs counter to some principle or is not in the mutual interest of the , he rejects the consensus or Jama'at − announces his acceptance in a modified form which thereafter is not open to objection in principle.The approved recommendations become binding on all.Jama'ats − The architect of the present shape of the International Majlis-i-Shura Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV is undoubtedly who aba − ± ± − − ± has continued to guide and encourage all national and Jama'ats − auxiliary organizations to emulate as far as possible the standards established by the Central International.Majlis-i-Shura − General Rules of International : Majlis-i-Shura − a) Subcommittee members are nominated by the National Amir Amir's of each country.Although, subject to National − − consent, a delegate may volunteer himself to serve in a 321

Page 322

− Subcommittee.b) The proposing an item included in the Agenda Jama'at − must have a delegate as a member of that subcommittee.c) A subcommittee member cannot oppose the recommendation of the subcommittee unless the Chairman of the subcommittee acknowledges the dissent and registers the member's right to oppose the recommendation during the subcommittee's meeting.d) The recommendations of the subcommittee supersede the original proposal.e) An amendment to the proposal can be presented during a session of the only in writing.Verbal Majlis-i-Shura − amendments are not acceptable.f) Any delegate who wishes to express an opinion on any item under discussion must raise his hand when Hadrat ± ± Khalifatul Masih so invites and register his full name and − − ± the.Once this list has closed, delegates who did not Jama at ‘ − register their own names when so invited are then not authorized to speak on that matter.If a previous delegate has broadly addressed the matter he wanted to cover, a delegate may withdraw his name.g) When invited, delegates must be as brief as possible and restrict themselves to the item then being discussed.This helps save the precious time of all delegates.h) Speakers must only address the Chair and they must never deride any other speaker.i) A poll is always conducted by show of hands only.There are no secret ballots.No one is allowed to abstain.Everyone must vote either for or against the motion.322

Page 323

− j) Since the proceedings are recorded and transcribed from these proceedings, whenever one speaks he should identify himself and the he represents.Jama'at − k) Separate arrangements are made for ladies and a limited number of visitors.Ladies do not participate at the subcommittee stage, but their contributions during the full Council (General Body) discussion are always welcomed.Visitors participate as observers and are not allowed to speak or vote.l) The delegates obtain permission from the Chair before leaving any session of the.Shura − (International Majlis-i-Shura, London, UK) − National Majlis-i-Shura − The is held under the chairmanship of National Shura − National of the country.In this , the national Amir Shura − − office-bearers, the Presidents and the elected representatives of all local participate.The recommendations of the National Jama'ats − Shura Shura Khalifatul Masih , at the conclusion of the , are sent to − − − − ± for his approval.The final decision is that of the.Khalifatul Masih − − ± He may accept, reject or partially accept the recommendations of the International and National.Whatever is the decision of Shuras − the , it is accepted by the open-heartedly.Khalifatul Masih Jama'at − − ± − Jama'at Khalifatul Masih, believes that after prayers, thinking, and − − − ± under the guidance of God Almighty makes a decision regarding acceptance or rejection of the recommendations.Jama'at − throughout its history has found that the decisions of the Khalifatul − Masih Jama'at have always been blessed for the.The general rules − ± − mentioned above for International also apply to the Shura National − Majlis-i-Shura.− National Majlis-i-Shura consists of the following: − 323

Page 324

− 1.Amir − 2.All the Local Missionaries.3.All the National Office-bearers of the Organization including and Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Sadr ± − ± ± Ansarullah.± − − 4.All the Presidents of the Local Jama'ats.− 5.Elected representatives from Local , Jama'ats − specially elected annually for this purpose and approved by the.Amir − 6.Where there is no Local , the may Jama'at Amir − − invite by special invitation any member living in that area to attend, but such a member shall not have the right to vote.7.The may invite, by special invitation, Amir − Representatives of affiliated bodies, but such representatives shall have no right to vote.8.Representatives of participate as Lajna Ima’illah − − observers and listen to the proceedings while sitting in a separate room.They may give their opinion during the General Body meeting.However, they do not vote.THE INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS (MARKAZ) The original Headquarters of the Community are in Qadian, India, the birth place of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.After the division of as − the subcontinent into India and Pakistan, the Headquarters moved to Rabwah, Pakistan.The International Headquarters of the Ahmadiyya ± Jama'at Hadrat Khalifatul , at present are based in London, England, where − ± ± − Masih IV aba currently resides, and in Rabwah, Pakistan.Work under the − ± guidance and instructions of the and the Center may be Khalifatul Masih − − ± changed to any other place if the so directs.Khalifatul Masih − − ± 324

Page 325

− Qadian, India Darweshan-i-Qadian − On the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan in August 1947, many of the Muslims living in India moved to Pakistan.also decided to move the Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ± ± − − ± administrative center of the Ahmadiyya from Qadian to Jama'at ± − Pakistan.Under the directive of , 313 Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ± ± − − ± Ahmadis stayed behind in Qadian to look after the holy sites in ± − Qadian, the birth place of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , and as − the starting place of in Isl m.These Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at a ± − − 313 Ahmadis are called "."Darweshan-i-Qadian ± − − Minaratul Masih − − ± One of the signs of the advent of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , as described by the Holy Prophet , was that he will be as sa − raised near a white minaret East of Damascus.The tradition of the Holy Prophet is as follows: sa Ó³jq ÕBzÎJ»A ÑiBÄÀ»A fħ ÁÍj¿ ÅIA ÓnΧ ¾lÄÍ ï ê æ ä ê ä æä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä æ ê ä ä æ ä å æ ä æ ê å ê æä - μr¿e ä æ ä ê yanzilu ‘isabnu maryama ‘indal manaratil baida’i − − ± − sharqqiyyu dimashq The Messiah will descend on the East of Damascus near a white minaret (Kanzul ‘amal, Vol.7) − 325

Page 326

− Although the real meaning of the minaret is symbolic, it was the practice of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi to endeavor as − to fulfill every prophecy in its literal form as well.For this reason, and in accordance with Divine instructions, he laid the foundation stone of on Friday, March 13, 1903.The structure Minaratul Masih − − ± was completed in early 1916.It has three stages, 92 steps, and total height is 105 feet.The clock was fixed in 1933.Qadian is situated to the East of Damascus and the white minaret is the sign of peace and proclaims the advent of the Prince of Peace, The Promised Messiah and Mahdi (The is depicted on the cover as Minaratul Masih − − − ± of this book).(Darul Aman, Abdul Rashid, Architect, London, UK, p 68) − − Baitul Fikr Most of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's early literary as − work was undertaken in this room ( ).He also wrote his Baitul Fikr book " here.Allah mentions this room in one Brahin-i-Ahmadiyya" − − ± − of the revelations to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi : as − "Have We not made everything easy for you, the place of contemplation" The Promised Messiah and Mahdi used to enter the as − Mubarak Mosque through the small window in this room.− Baitud Du‘a’ − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi got this room built on as − 13 March, 1903 so that he could pray there most intensively and th devotedly.By his ardent prayers he invoked special favor of God to enable him to prove the superiority of Islam through arguments − 326

Page 327

− andreasoning.He prayed to God Almighty to bless this place and make it a house of peace and security and arm him with the arguments and reasoning necessary for establishing the glory of Islam.He named it ’.Baitud Du‘a − − (Darul Aman, Abdul Rashid, Architect, London, UK, p 58; − − Dhikr-i-Habib: Hadrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq ) ra ± − ± ± − ± − Bahishti Maqbarah − At the end of 1905, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − started receiving a large number of revelations indicating that his demise is near.Promised Messiah and Mahdi published a 'Will' as − entitled, ' ' and also published all of the revelations Al-Wasiyyat' ± about his demise.In this 'Will', the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , as − under Divine guidance, also proposed establishment of a special graveyard, which he named as (The Heavenly 'Bahishti Maqbarah' − Graveyard).In fact, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi had seen a as − dream regarding this graveyard several years ago in which God Almighty had told the Promised Messiah and Mahdi that a as − separate graveyard should be established for the specially sincere and righteous people of the who are blessed in the sight of Jama at ‘ − God Almighty, so that it is a memorial for the new generations of Ahmadis to refresh their faith.Promised Messiah and Mahdi had as ± − − been thinking for a long time about the land and location of the graveyard.However, when Hadrat Maulvi ‘Abdul Karim Sahib ± ± − − ± − ± Sialkoti passed away and at the same time he received several ra − − revelations about his own demise, then Promised Messiah and Mahdi took practical steps to implement the Heavenly Graveyard as − proposal.Promised Messiah and Mahdi selected a piece of land as − adjacent to his garden in the south of Qadian and laid foundation of the.At that time, body of Hadrat Maulvi 'Bahishti Maqbarah'' − ± ± − ‘Abdul Karim Sahib which was temporarily buried in a box at ra − ± − ± another place was moved to the.Thus, Bahishti Maqbarah Bahishti − − 327

Page 328

− Maqbarah (Heavenly Graveyard) was started in Qadian during the life of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Regarding the Promised Messiah and Bahishti Maqbarah, − Mahdi has stated: as − "....And a place has been shown to me that this would be my grave.I saw an angel measuring a plot of land, and reaching a point he said to me that was the spot for my grave.Then at one place I was shown a grave more shining than silver, and all its earth was of silver.Then it was said to me that this was my grave.And I was shown a spot which was named (Heavenly "Bahishti Maqbrah" − Graveyard)." (The Will, p 35, Ruhani Khaza in, Vol.20, p.320) ’ − − − − Funeral prayer of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi took as − place in the grounds of the and he was buried in Bahishti Maqbarah − this graveyard.Many of the companions of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and other are buried in this Heavenly as Musian − − ± − Graveyard.Branches of this Heavenly Graveyard have been established in Rabwah, Pakistan and in other countries where Musis Hadrat Amma are buried.Hadrat Nusrat Jahan Sahiba ( ra − ± − ± ± ± − ± − ± ± ± Jan), wife of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Hadrat Khalifatul as − − ± ± − Masih II , Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III , and many other family ra rh − ± ± ± − − ± members and Companions of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − are buried in the at Rabwah, Pakistan.Bahishti Maqbarah − Rabwah, Pakistan On the creation of Pakistan in August 1947, Hadrat Khalifatul ± ± − Masih II Jama at ra moved the administrative center of the from Qadian, ‘ − ± − initially to Lahore, and then to Rabwah.On September 20, 1948, about a year after moving from Qadian, laid Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ± ± − − ± 328

Page 329

− thefoundation of the new center at Rabwah.At the time of its founding,Rabwah was a waste, desert land with no vegetation and frequent dust storms.Over the past 54 years, Rabwah has grown into a large AhmadiyyaMuslim town complete with schools, colleges, hospital, ± library, institutions of religious learning and various offices of the Ahmadiyya.Rabwah is also the official residence of Jama'at Khalifatul ± − − Masih (Hudur.However, at present, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV ) resides aba − ± ± ± − − ± ± ± − in London, UK.Some of the important institutions in Rabwah are as follows: Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Jama'at's is one of most ± ± − important institutions, which the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − established during his life.In December 1905, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi received a revelation that his end was near.as − Thereupon he wrote a brochure called (The Will) and Al-Wasiyyat ± distributed it among his followers.Until the publication of 'Al-Wasiyyat' Anjumans there were separate in-charge of the ± management of the school and the magazine.created a Al-Wasiyyat ± new for the management of the cemetery and of bequests.Anjuman Later on, at the insistence of some of his followers, in December 1906, he converted the last , which was charged with the Anjuman administration of bequests into a larger one which was placed in general control of the educational institutions - secular and religious - the , the cemetery and all the other Review of Religions activities; and was designated as the.Sadr Anjuman Jama'at's ± − obligatory system and its implementation, Chanda Ta‘limi − − (educational), (Moral training), (Preaching), Tarbiyyati Tablighi − − − Rifahi Anjuman.(Social works) activities are supervised by this − − Furthermore, the system of the local, district, and the provincial Amarat Anjuman (Offices) is run under the supervision of the.On − − January 1, 1919, various Departments ( ) were set up by Nazarat ± − − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II to streamline the working of ra Sadr ± ± − − ± ± Anjuman Ahmadiyya.There are several different offices and ± 329

Page 330

− Nazarat Anjuman (Directorates) under the supervision of this.The ± − − head of each (Directorate) is called a (An inspector Nazarat Nazir ± − − ± or in-charge).The in-charge of the is Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± called (Chief Secretary) who works under the Nazir A la ‘ − ± − instructions of the.On 31st May, 1950, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II laid the foundation of a grand building ra ± ± − − ± for the various offices of the in Rabwah, and on Anjuman November 19, 1957, he did the opening of the building with prayers.Following are the various : Nazarat of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± − − ± ± 1.Nazarat-i-‘Ulya (Principal Directorate) ± − − Except the (Branches) which are directly under Sigah Jat ± − − the all of the Sadr, Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Nazarat ± ± ± ± − − (Directorates) and (Branches) are under the Sigah Jat ± − − Nazarat-i- Ulya.Nazarat-i-‘Ulya ‘ The itself is directly under ± − − ± − − the Sadr, Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya.± ± ± 2.Na arat-i-Diwan (Directorate of Establishment z ± − − − Division) The duties of this department include appointments, promotions, transfers, overseeing and keeping of the records of the employees.3.Nazarat-i-Baitul Mal Amad (Directorate of Finance, ± − − − Income) All of the financial book-keeping is the Jama at's ‘ − responsibility of this department.All the information regarding paid by members come to this Chanda Jama at ‘ − department where a systematic record is kept.To increase Jama at's ‘ income is also a responsibility of this department.− 4.Nazarat-i-Baitul Mal Kharch (Directorate of ± − − 330

Page 331

− Finance, Expenditure) It is the responsibility of this department to make an estimate of the expenses, and to prepare the expense budget.The department keeps a detailed record of all the Jama'at − expenses done anywhere and in anyway.5.Nazarat-i-Amur ‘Ama (Directorate of Internal ± − − − Affairs) This department has been established to keep discipline in the , to resolve disputes between members, Jama'at Jama'at − − to implement the decisions made by ( Qada Jama'at's ± − − department of Justice), and to take care of various other affairs of the.also comes Jama'at Fadl-i-‘Umar Hospital − ± under this department.6.Nazarat-i-Islahu Irshad, Markaziyya, (Directorate of ± − ± − ± − Reformation and Moral Training, Central) Tarbiyyati Tablighi Islahi (moral training), (Preaching), and − − − ± − ± − (Reformational) affairs of the members in Pakistan Jama'at − are handled by this department.The organizational affairs and supervision of the (Missionaries assigned Murabbiyyan − duties in Pakistan) are also handled by this department.7.Additional Nazarat-i-Islahu Irshad, Muqam (Local, ± − ± − ± − − Directorate of Reformation and Moral Training).In the following districts of Pakistan the work stated above under the heading, "Nazarat-i-Islahu Irshad, Markaziyya" ± − ± − ± − is carried out by this department: Sargodha, Khushab, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Faisal Abad, Shiekhupura, Gujranwala, Narowal, and Sialkot.331

Page 332

− 8.Additional Nazarat-i-Islahu Irshad, Bra’i ± − ± − ± − − Da‘wat-i-ilallah (Additional Directorate of − Reformation and Moral Training, In-charge Preaching) This is responsible for organizing and stimulating Nazarat ± − the work Da‘i ilallah − − − 9.Additional Nazarat-i-Islahu Irshad, Bra’i Ta‘limul ± − ± − ± − − − Qur’an and Waqf-i-Ardi (Additional Directorate of − − ± − Teaching of the Holy Qur’an and Temporary − Devotion) This department is responsible for sending the members under the (Devotion for a short period Waqf-i-Ardi Scheme − ± − of time) to various.Furthermore, the department Jama'ats − makes programs for religious training of the members living in various.In training, the emphasis is on Jama'ats − Ta‘limul Qur’an.− − 10.Nazarat-i-Ta‘lim (Directorate of Education) ± − − To guide Ahmadi students, boys and girls, towards higher ± − education so that educational level of the members of the Jama'at is elevated.To this end, the department provides − necessary information and facilities to the students and supervises their educational progress.To encourage the students towards higher education, the department gives awards and scholarships to academically talented students.All the arrangements regarding admissions of students in Madrissatul Hifz Hafiz-i-Qur’an (School for preparing ) are ± ± ± − ± − made by.Nazarat-i-Ta‘lim ± − − 11.Nazarat-i-Zira‘at (Directorate of Agriculture) ± − − 332

Page 333

− This department provides consultation in the field of agriculture to the members of the so that they could Jama'at − make advancement in the field of agriculture.12.Nazarat-i-San‘atu Tijarat (Directorate of Trade and ± − − Commerce) This department gives consultation in the area of industrial trade so that the members of the could excel in Jama'at − industrial trade.13.Nazarat Khidmat-i-Darweshan (Directorate of ± − − Looking After the Interests of Qadian and Ahmadis ± − Living in It) This department is responsible for taking care of the relatives of those members of the who stayed in Jama'at − Qadian, India at the time of creation of Pakistan ( ).Furthermore, this department is Darweshan-i-Qadian − responsible for communication between the of Darweshan − Qadian and their relatives living in Pakistan.14.Nazarat-i-Darul Diafat (Directorate of Hospitality) ± − − ± − This department is responsible for hospitality (i.e.running the or (Free public kitchen) of Darul Diafat Langar Khana − ± − − Hadrat Masih Ma‘ud as ).± ± − ± − 15.Nazarat-i-Isha‘at wa Tasnif (Directorate of ± − − ± − Publication) This department is responsible for publishing all sort of literature of the.The department is also responsible Jama'at − for publishing books of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − and the Khulafa-i-Jama at Ahmadiyya.‘ − − ± 333

Page 334

− 16.Nazarat-i-Amur Kharjah (Directorate of External ± − − − Affairs) This department is responsible for taking care of the legal problems (i.e.pleading of the law suits, etc.).The department is also responsible for establishing connections and increasing cooperation between Ahmadis and various ± − states and countries.Besides the above stated , there are also few Nazarat Nazamat ± − − ± − − (Department) established.The in-charge of a is called a.Nazamat Nazim ± − − − ± However, in-charge of some of the Branches is called a Secretary.The Nazim Na ib Nazir and the Secretary have the status of a (Deputy ‘ − ± − − ± in-charge).Some of the are briefly mentioned here: Nazamat ± − − 1.Na amat-i-Tashkhis Ja’idad (Department of z ± − − − − − Assessment of Property Value) This is responsible for doing appraisal of the Nazamat ± − − properties of a.Particularly, after death of a , if a Musi Musi − ± − − ± − problem arises concerning the will of the , this Musi − ± − department is responsible to do full search and evaluation of the properties of the.Musi − ± − 2.Na amat-i-Darul Ifta‘ (Department Dealing with z ± − − − − Interpretation of Religious Laws) This is responsible for finding solutions of Nazamat ± − − important and difficult present day problems with the help of.Under this , a , consisting Shari‘ah Nazamat Majlis Ifta‘ − ± − − − of various scholars of the as its members, is Jama'at, − established.The members of the are appointed Majlis Ifta‘ − with the approval of the.Whenever the Khalifatul Masih − − ± 334

Page 335

− need arises, this , after considering the various issues Majlis and problems relating to the religious law, presents its report to.Only when approved by the Khalifatul Masih − − ± Khalifatul Masih, the recommendations become applicable − − ± to the concerned situation.About the general issues, the Mufti Silsilah Jama'at (The Chief Jurist of the ) gives a legal − − opinion.If he feels necessary, before giving a legal opinion, the can informally consult the scholars of the Mufti Silsilah − Jama'at.− 3.Na amat -i-Ja'idad (Department of Properties) z ± − − − − Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya's construction projects are ± ± managed by this.Construction of all the new Nazamat ± − − buildings, roads and bridges, etc., essential for the Jama'at − and repair of the old buildings is done under the supervision of this department.In-charge of the department is called Nazim Ja’idad (In-charge, Properties) who is responsible − ± − − for the expense accounts of the department.He is answerable to the.All the record about the Nazir A‘la − ± − construction and supervision of the buildings and all the maps are kept with this department.4.Shu‘bah Rishta Nata (Matrimonial Department) − This department guides and helps the Ahmadi families in ± − matrimonial affairs.It helps establish communication between the families looking for partners for their marriageable children.Record of the marriages is also kept by this department.In-charge of this department is called Secretary who is answerable to Rishta Nata Nazir Islahu − − ± ± − ± Irshad Markaziyya and works under his guidance.− 5.Majlis Kar Pardaz Bahishti Maqbarah (Bahishti − − − − Maqbarah Management Body) 335

Page 336

− All the work related to " ", and is Wills Bahishti Maqbarah − carried out by this department.This body is responsible to check the accounts of the and also keeps Chanda Musis − ± − record concerning the graves.This body corresponds with the in connection with the (Will) affairs.Musis Wasiyyat − ± − ± Secretary of this body is called, Secretary Majlis Kar − Pardaz.− (Jama'at Ahmadiyya Ka Ta‘araf (Urdu), Mubashshar Ahmad − ± − − ± Khalid, Department of Publications, Lajna Ima’illah, Karachi, − − − Pakistan.; Rabwah: Past and Present, Raja Nasrulah Khan, The Review of Religions, Special Centenary Number, March 23, 1989, pp 21-22,) Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± − − ± Tehrik-i-Jadid (The New Movement) was launched in 1934 by ± − − Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II , for the ra ± ± − − − ± − ± − − ± purpose of delivering the message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat in the − ± countries outside the Indian subcontinent.Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman ± − − Ahmadiyya was established to supervise the collection and use of funds ± under the , to supervise the system of Tehrik-i-Jadid Waqfin-i-Zindaghi ± − − − − (Life Devotees), and to supervise the system of sending missionaries to countries outside the Indian subcontinent.Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman ± − − Ahmadiyya, Pakistan, a society which was registered in 1960 under Act ± XXI of 1860 of the laws of Pakistan controls and guides all the Ahmadiyya Missions outside Pakistan (except India and Bangladesh).± Like , under Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Anjuman Tehrik-i-Jadid ± ± ± − − several departments have been established.In-charge of each department is called, who is responsible for the supervision of the activities of "Vakil" − the department.The President of is Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± − − ± called.The is appointed by and "Sadr" Sadr Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± ± ± − − ± holds office at his pleasure.He presides over the meetings of the Board of Directors.336

Page 337

− Following are the various (Departments) of Vakalats − Tehrik-i-Jadid: ± − − 1.Vakalat-i-‘Ulya (Principal Department) − − Supervision of the various departments and their branches, and coordination between the activities of the departments is the responsibility of the - The head of this Vakalat i-‘Ulya.− − Vakalat Vakilul A‘la is called who works under the − − − directions of the.He is the chief executive Khalifatul Masih − − ± of and is responsible for all matters Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − concerning This Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya.± − − ± Vakalat Tehrik-i-Jadid.supervises all the departments of − ± − − Vakilul A‘la is responsible for holding of elections of − − office-bearers of the at local, and national level in Jama'at − accordance with the rules and regulations.2.Vakalat-i-Ta‘milu Tanfidh (Department of − − − Compliance and Enforcement) This (Department) is responsible for supervising Vakalat − implementation of plans and programs approved by Hadrat ± ± Khalifatul Masih and assigned to different departments of − − ± Tehrik-i-Jadid.± − − 3.Vakalat-i-Diwan (Department of Revenue) − − − This department is headed by who also act Vakilud Diwan − − − as Secretary of.To organize the Majlis Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − meetings and to keep the record of the proceedings of the meetings of is the responsibility of this Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Vakalat (Department).Appointments, promotions and − retirement affairs of the employees of the various department of the are handled by this Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − 337

Page 338

− Vakalat.Preparation of the payrolls of the employees and − payment of the salaries is also responsibility of this.Vakalat − Thus, this is responsible for implementing all the Vakalat − decisions concerning the personnel of Tehrik-i-Jadid.± − − Furthermore, all the arrangements regarding admissions of students in (Missionaries Training Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± College) are made by this.Vakalat − 4.Vakalat-i-Tabshir (Department of Ahmadiyya − − ± Muslim Foreign Missions) The head of this is known as.This Vakalat Vakilut Tabshir − − − Vakalat Tabligh is responsible for all the affairs concerning − − (Propagation of the message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat − ± throughout the world).Religious education and spiritual training of the community members is also conducted and supervised by this department.This department also performs the task of religious and moral training (Tarbiyyat) of all Establishment and management of mosques, Jama'ats.− mission houses and community centers is the responsibility of this This makes suitable arrangements Vakalat.Vakalat − − for dissemination of Friday Sermons Khalifatul Masih's − − ± (Khutbahs) Jama'at.and directives to all members of the All ± − missionaries and of work under Mu‘allims Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − the supervision of.in Vakalati Tabshir Vakilut Tabshir − − − − consultation with the submits proposals to Vakilul A‘la − − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih for appointment of Central ± ± − − ± Missionaries and Missionaries' In-charge to various countries.Thus, all the affairs of the missionaries working in foreign countries are handled by this department.This department trains missionaries, gets visas and makes travel arrangements for the missionaries to the countries of their appointment.Furthermore, the department is responsible of taking care of the families of the missionaries.5.Vakalati Mal Awwal (Department of Financial − − Affairs I) 338

Page 339

− The office of is called.Vakilul Mal I Vakalati Mal I Vakalati − − − − − Mal I Jama'ats keeps the in Pakistan informed of the aims − − and objectives of and of the worldwide Tehrik-i-Jadid, ± − − activities and achievements of To develop Tehrik-i-Jadid.± − − means of producing funds for running the affairs of Tehrik-i-Jadid is the responsibility of this department.The ± − − department fixes targets for collection and makes Chanda arrangements to achieve these targets following the instructions of.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − ± 6.Vakalat-i-Mal Thani (Department of Financial − − − − Affairs II) The office of is called Vakilul Mal II Vakalati Mal II.− − − − Vakalati Mal II makes the aims and objectives of − − Tehrik-i-Jadid Jama'ats known to the outside Pakistan and ± − − − gives wide publicity to the scheme and its Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − demands as enunciated by The Hadrat Khalifatul Masih.± ± − − ± department is responsible for making assessment of Chandas, due from members outside Pakistan, and arrange collection of these , whether obligatory or Chandas voluntary.This department prepares income and expense budget of and presents the budget to Tehrik-i-Jadid Hadrat ± − − ± ± Khalifatul Masih Hadrat for his approval.After approval by − − ± ± ± Khalifatul Masih, Vakalat the issues the respective budgets − − ± − to various departments in Pakistan, as well as to the concerned outside Pakistan.There is a special cell Jama'ats − for in this This cell educates members Wasaya Vakalat.− − outside Pakistan about the institution of and tries Wasiyyat ± that new members continue to join this institution.The cell is headed by a Furthermore, the Na’ib Vakilul Mal.− − − department keeps record of the payments of Chanda Wasiyyat Musis by the living in countries other than ± − ± − 339

Page 340

− Pakistan.The collection of and its Chanda Waqf-i-Jadid − pledges outside Pakistan is also the responsibility of this Vakalat.− 7.Vakalat-i-Mal Thalith (Department of Financial − − − Affairs III) This supervises the management and maintenance Vakalat − of all movable and immovable property of the Jama'at, − outside Pakistan as well as that of Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman ± − − Ahmadiyya.Pakistan Responsibilities of this department ± also include to keep complete records of all the properties of Tehrik-i-Jadid.Furthermore, purchasing, selling and ± − − expansion of the properties, when necessary, Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − is also carried out by this department.This also Vakalat − works as (Accountant General) to Muhasib Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − ± − − Anjuman Ahmadiyya Pakistan.± 8.Vakalat-i-Ta‘lim (Department of Education) − − Vakalat-i-Ta‘lim attends to the educational affairs of the − − Jama'at Vakalat outside Pakistan.This oversees general − − educational uplift of the Ahmadiyya.It manages all Jama'at ± − the educational institutions of the in all countries Jama'at − − other than those in the African continent.Jami‘a − Ahmadiyya Rabwah and all Missionary Training ± institutions outside Pakistan will be supervised by this Vakalat.(At present the management of all the educational − institutions of the in Africa, with the exception of Jama'at − Missionary Training Colleges, is being carried out by Majlis Nusrat Jahan Tehrik-i-Jadid,., Rabwah ) ± − ± − − 9.Vakalat-i-Tasnif (Department of Publication) − ± − Preparation and publication of literature written by Promised Messiah and Mahdi and scholars of the as Jama'at − − 340

Page 341

− and translation of the literature in various languages used in foreign countries is the responsibility of this.When Vakalat − desired, the department provides scholarly material to Jama'at's Vakalat in foreign countries.This is responsible − − for preparing fresh literature at the and in Markaz Jama ats ‘ − abroad in order to meet new requirements.Furthermore, this approves all the literature prepared in foreign Vakalat − missions prior to its publication.It monitors the contents of Ahmadiyya Periodicals published abroad to ensure that ± nothing contrary to the teachings and doctrine is Jama'at's − published therein.It keeps a record at the of all the Markaz publications of the printed anywhere in the world.Jama'at − It also maintains a record of all that is printed abroad against the Jama'at.− This is responsible for establishing book depots in Vakalat − missions abroad wherever possible.The department takes steps that members of the develop scholastic and Jama'at − writing skills through writing articles and essays.The department supervises translation and publication of the Holy Qur’an in foreign languages.− 10.Vakalat-i-Waqfi Nau (Department of New Devotees) − Keeping in view the five Friday sermons delivered by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV and his other directives, this aba , ± ± − − ± Vakalat Waqf-i-Nau makes the aims and objects of known − − to the.It maintains record of all The Jama'at Waqfin-i-Nau.− − − department is also responsible for taking care of religious training and other affairs of the children.Waqfin-i-Nau − − 11.Vakalat-i-San‘atu Tijarat (Department of Industry − ± − and Trade) Vakalat-i-San‘atu Tijarat Jama'at persuades members of the − ± − − 341

Page 342

− to involve themselves more and more into trade and industry.This department collects and provides information about industries and trade to the members of the.Jama'at − The department also develops industrial and business connections between Ahmadi Industrialists and ± − Businessmen throughout the world.Thus all the industrial and business affairs of the , except those of limited Jama'at − companies, are handled by this department.12.Vakalat-i-Zira‘at (Department of Agriculture) − − Vakalat-i-Zira‘at is responsible for the participation and − − progress of the in the field of agriculture.This Jama'at − department is responsible for the supervision and development of the agriculture properties belonging to Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya and its branches.The ± − − ± department keeps income and expense record of the Jama at's ‘ agriculture land in Sindh, Pakistan and makes − plans to improve income from these lands.(Rules and Regulations of Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman ± − − Ahmadiyya, Revised Edition 1998, Published by ± Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya Pakistan) ± − − ± Waqf-i-Jadid − Waqf-i-Jadid Ha rat Musleh Ma‘ud Scheme was initiated by in d ra − ± ± ± ± − 1957 who stated the following about the Scheme: "...Now I would like to invite the members to a new type Jama'at − of (Devotion).I related to you about this scheme briefly in my Waqf earlier sermon delivered on July 9, 1957.Although, this scheme has a vast scope, yet at this initial stage I have decided to utilize the services of 10 dedicated teachers or." Waqifin − − (Al-Fadl, February 16, 1958) ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II has explained the Scheme as follows: ra ± ± − − ± 342

Page 343

− "This is the work of Almighty God, and it will certainly be done.Since Almighty God has put this scheme into my mind, I will do this duty even if I have to sell my house and my clothes....Almighty God will separate those people who will not support me and will send angels from Heaven for my help." "If our wishes to prosper it will have to extend its Jama'at − preaching activity in every quarter.There is need to amplify considerably our efforts so that our voice may reach every house in every town." (Al-Fadl, January 11, 1958) ± "The youth should dedicate their lives for serving the Waqf-i-Jadid − Scheme and should follow the example of the Prophet Hadrat Isma‘il as...± ± − − a Hadrat They should foll ow the footsteps of the Godly men like ± ± Mo‘inuddin Chishti Hdrat Shahabuddin Suharwardi Hadrat Isma‘il rh rh , , − − − ± ± − − − ± ± − − Shahid rh , may Allah have mercy on them.They should give spiritual − − habitation to the barren land.They should educate the Muslims, teach them the Holy Qur’an and the and produce their successors far and Hadith − ± − wide, and spread the light of Islam." − (Al-Fadl, February 4, 1958) ± Initial purpose of the Scheme was and in the Tabligh Tarbiyyat − rural population of Pakistan through dedicated and trained religious teachers and initial scope of the scheme was the subcontinent Indo-Pakistan.The first was Hadrat Mirza Tahir Nazim Waqf-i-Jadid − ± − ± ± − ± − Ahmad who later on became Khalifatul Masih IV.Hadrat Khalifatul aba ± − − ± ± ± − Masih IV , in 1985, expanded the scope of the scheme and aba Waqf-i-Jadid − ± − made the scheme an 'International' scheme which involved world-wide Chanda (Monetary contributions) collections.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV stated the following about the aba ± ± − − ± scheme: 343

Page 344

− "Last year I expanded the horizon of and made it Waqf-i-Jadid − 'Global' in nature.By the grace of Allah, this decision greatly benefited the − Jama'at.More so, it appears that there was a Divine inspiration which − instilled within me this need to internationalize the scheme.Waqf-i-Jadid − This inspiration dictated to me that the time has come to 'Globalize' this scheme." (Friday Sermon, Jan.2, 1987) The head of is called who is Waqf-i-Jadid Nazim Waqf-i-Jadid − − ± − responsible for taking care of all the affairs of the.The Waqf-i-Jadid − administrative work has been divided into two Departments: Nizamat-i-Mal Nizamat i-Irshad and -.The in-charge of the two offices are ± − − ± − − called: and respectively Nazim Mal Nazim Islahu Irshad,.− ± − − ± ± − ± − Ni amat-i-Mal (Finance Department) z ± − − The matters concerning collection and expenses of Chanda Waqf-i-Jadid Nizamat.are conducted by this − ± − Ni amat-i-Irshad (Department of Religious Training) z ± − − This administration is responsible for religious training of Mu‘allimin Mu‘allimin (instructors), sending the to the field, to − − supervise their work.Furthermore, the is responsible for Nizamat ± − printing of the necessary literature.There are several "Mu‘allimin" − and " working under this scheme.Inspectors Mal" − Fadl-i-‘Umar Free Homeopathic Dispensary ± Under the scheme, a Homeopathic dispensary Waqf-i-Jadid − is operational in Rabwah for the past several years, which provides free medicines to patients.344

Page 345

− Khilafat Library − The study of the history of Ahmadiyyat clearly suggests that ± members of the Ahmadiyya always have shown great Jama'at ± − interest in scholarly research.Accordingly, there has been a strong tendency towards establishment of libraries both at the individual and the levels.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , in 1952, at the Jama'at ra − ± ± − − ± occasion of instructed that from now on his Majlis-i-Mushawarat − libraries and the central library of the Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± should be joined together into one library.Accordingly, in 1952, a central library was started in three rooms in the Private Secretary's office.Later on it was felt that, in Rabwah, such a library should be established from which, besides the ordinary public of Rabwah, students could also benefit.To this end, on January 18, 1970, Khalifatul Masih III laid rh − − ± foundation, and on October 13, 1971 he inaugurated the Khilafat − Library in Rabwah.All the expenses towards the construction of the library, purchase of the furniture and books were borne by Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation.There is a committee which supervises ± working of the Library.The administration of the Library works directly under the supervision This of Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya.± ± library has more than 100,000 books and has ample space for readers, research scholars and administrative work.There is separate area for ladies in the library.At a time two books can be issued for 15 days to the members of the library.There is an area reserved for reading daily newspapers and 15 different daily newspapers are available to the readers.On the average, about 300 people visit this area to read the daily newspapers.There is another area in the library where almost 100 weekly and monthly magazines, in different languages, are kept for the readers.Furthermore, the Library has the following sections: 345

Page 346

− Text Books Section Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III started this section in 1981.In rh ± ± − − ± this section of the library, text books to M.A., M.Sc., Medical, and Engineering students, relevant to their courses are provided.This section contains 2441 books and 316 students are members of this section.Four books are issued to each student for 2 months at a time.In case the books are not required by other students, these can be reissued for another 2 months.Children's Books Section For Children, there is a separate children's books section in the Library.This section has 4911 books in Urdu and − English and 526 children are members of this section.Under the directions of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV , a aba ± ± − − ± video section has been added to the Children's book section.Preservation Section i.Photostat Copying The Library has a modern Photostat copying machine.To date, the following have been preserved by making Photocopies: Manuscripts and writings of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi (3 sets), Books of the Promised as − Messiah and Mahdi , First Edition (2 complete as − sets), Original written by the Promised Ishtiharat − − Messiah and Mahdi , (1897-1943, as Al-Hakam − ± complete), (1903-1913, complete), Review Al-Badr of Religions, Urdu and English (up to 1947), − 346

Page 347

− Al-Fadl Rivayat (1913-1952), Thirteen Register (2 ± − − complete sets).ii.Lamination Lamination work which involves preservation of old newspapers and magazines by covering them with plastic was started in the library in 1983.Since then the following have been preserved: Books of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , First as − Edition (Complete set), Original Ishtiharat − − (Pamphlets) of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi as , − Al-Hakam Al-Badr (1897-1943, complete), ± (1903-1913, complete), Review of Religions, Urdu − and English (Till 1947), Tash- idhul adh-han h ± − − (1906-1921), (1913-1940) Al-Fadl ± iii.Bookbinding Modern bookbinding facilities, including a machine to affix plastic covers on the books are, available in the Library.Recently, a Ring Binding machine has been purchased.iv.Microfilm All the old newspapers of the are being Jama'at − preserved not only through Photostat and lamination but also through microfilm system.Rare Writings and Handwritten Manuscripts The Library has the following rare writings and books: 347

Page 348

− 1.Original manuscripts of some of the books of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , the first Register as − Bai‘at, 1889, copy of the revelations written by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in his own as − handwriting, Register Mutafarraq Yad dashtain − (Various memoirs) written by Promised Messiah and Mahdi himself.as − 2.and on which the Bukhari Sharif Ta‘tirul an‘am − − − − − Promised Messiah and Mahdi has written his notes.as − 3.Letters of Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi as ± ± − written to Hadrat Maulvi ‘Abdullah Sanori (Total ra ± ± − − − letters are 66 and the 1st one was written in 1884).4.Copies of various articles, manuscripts of important books, and corrected manuscripts of Khutbat ± − (Friday sermons) written by Hadrat Musleh ± ± ± ± Ma‘ud ra.− 5.One hundred fifty three rare handwritten manuscripts, most of which were purchased by Hadrat Maulana Nuruddin, Khalifatul Masih I with ra ± ± − − − − − ± his own funds due to his personal interest.Rare Pictures Section In this section, rare pictures obtained from various sources, particularly, those of the companions of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , are saved.Other important as − Jama'at pictures are also collected and saved in this section.− News About Jama'at − News about published in various Jama'at − newspapers and magazines are collected and saved for the future historians.This work is being done for the past 100 348

Page 349

− years.Some of the newspaper cuttings saved by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi are now saved here.In this as − section, old newspapers are filed, bound and saved for reference use in the future.Old files of rare newspapers such as , , Riadul Hind Mansuriyya Muhammadi Isha‘atul − ± ± − ± − − Sunnah Ahl-i- Hadith Tarjamanul Qur’an , , are also available ± − − − in the library.(Jama'at Ahmadiyya ka Ta‘araf, Urdu, 1996, pp 201-207) − ± − − Secondary Schools and Colleges Ta‘limul Islam High School − − On July 25, 1912, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih I laid the ra ± ± − − ± foundation stone of Ta‘limul Islam High School in Qadian.The T.I.− − High School in Qadian had a good name in the Punjab for its building, playgrounds and for its high standard and efficiency in teaching.Even students from abroad were drawn to it and sought admission.On the partition of India there was an exodus of Ahmadis from Qadian.The T.I.High School was first housed in ± − Chiniot and shifted to Rabwah in April 1952, when its building was completed.Here also, it secured very soon a good name for its superior organization, its excellent academic results and its leading position in sports.Since then several hundred schools have been established by the in various countries of the world.At Jama'at − present, 35 Higher Secondary Schools, 44 Junior Secondary Schools, 219 Primary Schools, and 58 Nursery Schools are being run by Ahmadiyya in different countries of the world such Jama'at − ± as The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone.Ta‘limul Islam College − − In Qadian, Ta‘limul Islam College had a very imposing − − building.It was sealed on August 14, 1947 on the partition of India.349

Page 350

− In Lahore, after constant endeavors, the building of D.A.V.College was allotted to it.T.I.College started its work in it and was very soon able to revive its traditions of imparting excellent education.The college was shifted to its new premises in Rabwah on November 7, 1954.It was formally inaugurated on December 6 of the same year under the enlightened guidance of its Principal, Sahibzada Mirza Nasir Ahmad who later on became Khalifatul ± − ± − − − ± ± − Masih III rh.It soon won distinction in education as well as in sports.− ± Foreign students also obtained admission in it for higher education.It catered for education up to the standard of M.A.and M.Sc.Its laboratories were equipped with up-to-date instruments imported from abroad.The foundation of its hostel in Rabwah was laid on June 26, 1953.Jami‘a Nusrat (Nusrat Women's College ) − ± ± It is the goal of the Community that no Ahmadi, male or ± − female should be without education.For girls, in addition to a High School, a college also has been established which (Jami‘a Nusrat) − ± was founded in 1951.Primary Schools for girls are functioning in every ward in Rabwah.The Community, in spite of its meager resources gives them many awards in the shape of cash and books and thus encourages the students to work hard to try to surpass each other in their academic performances.Industrial School There is an industrial school for girls where they are given training in different trades.This school was started in 1951.350

Page 351

− Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± Jami‘a Ahmadiyya is that great religious training institution − ± where the devotees are trained to serve as and Murabbis − Missionaries.Today, the students of the are Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± performing great service in the cause of Islam and Ahmadiyyat in − ± the fields of education, religious training and preaching all over the world.The background and the brief history of establishment of this great institution is as follows: Death of two prominent scholars of the , Hadrat Jama'at − ± ± Maulana ‘Abdul Karim Sialkoti and Hadrat Hafiz Burhanuddin , ra ra − − − ± ± ± − ± − − made the Promised Messiah and Mahdi realize that there should as − be a system whereby there are always scholars ready to bear the scholarly responsibilities of the and to fill the vacuum Jama'at − created with the demise of older scholars.Accordingly, in 1905 at the occasion of the Annual Gathering, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi made a very touching speech and stated his plan about the as − necessity of an institution for producing religious scholars: "The existing Ta‘limul Islam High School does not fulfil − − Jama'at's specific requirement of producing religious scholars.− Thus, there is need for establishing another institute where we could give religious education and prepare such scholars who have full knowledge about Islam and Ahmadiyyat.Besides being − ± knowledgeable about Islam and Ahmadiyyat they must be excellent − ± writers and speakers.They should be taught English and Sanskrit languages.They should be given education about other religions and be taught some science.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi as − further stated that the youth of the should offer themselves Jama'at − for the service of the religion so that after giving proper education they could be put to service.At this time, he also stated that at present there is a lot of need of correction and improvement in the Jama'at members' moral training.The Promised Messiah an − 351

Page 352

− Mahdi stated, although, keeping in mind the pledges of God as − Almighty he is fully hopeful and confident that God Almighty will take care of all the deficiencies.However, present Jama'at's − condition is like that of a child who has suckled his mother's milk just for few days and the mother has died." (Akhbar Al-Hakam, Jan., Feb., 1906) − ± After the passionate speech of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , a separate religious educational class was started in the as − Ta‘limul Islam High School in which besides Arabic and religious − − education, education about other religions was also given.The students were also taught English and Sanskrit, and some sciences.They were also given a lot of practice in writing and speaking.After the demise of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in as − 1908, the special religious education branch of the Ta‘limul Islam − − High School was severed from the School and was continued by establishing a permanent religious educational school.On May 20, 1928 Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II did opening of the ra Jami‘a ± ± − − ± − Ahmadiyya in Qadian.± In the beginning, to meet the missionary needs of the movement it had two institutions in Qadian: Madrissah Ahmadiyya ± and , both catering for religious education.Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± Parents imbued with a desire to educate their children in religion would send their children to Qadian.Here they would be prepared to appear in the examination of the University of Honor in Arabic Punjab.After qualifying they would receive two years further training and then serve the Community as full fledged misionaries.On partition this institution was at first started in Lahore, then in Chiniot, afterwards in Ahmadnagar.In 1949 Jami‘atul ± − Mubashshirin Jami‘a Ahmadiyya was started in Rabwah and was − − ± incorporated in it.At present, the religious educational branch of the Ta‘limul Islam High school, started at the time of the Promised − − Messiah and Mahdi , after passing through different stages, since as − 352

Page 353

− 1957, has evolved into the current.On March Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± 29, 1960, Hadrat Maulvi Ghulam Rasul Rajiki , a prominent ra ± ± − − − − − companion of the founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam ± − laid the foundation of a new building for the.Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± Later on under the illuminating guidance of its Principal, Syed Mir − Da’ud Ahmad, the institution made rapid progress.− − ± At the extensive religious training is Jami‘a Ahmadiyya, − ± imparted in every aspect of religious matters such as: The Holy Qur’an, , , basic sciences, conversation, History of Hadith Fiqh − ± − Islam and Ahmadiyyat, Comparative studies of the world religions, − ± different languages, including English, Arabic, Urdu, and some − other foreign languages.Besides religious education, the students are also given physical education and training in various sports such as Football, Volley Ball, and Athletics.Students from outside Rabwah stay in dormitories.has no Jami‘a's Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − − ± association with the Educational department of Pakistan.It is purely a national religious training institute whose objectives are to produce scholars and trainers of the religion.Hundreds of the graduates of are working as missionaries and Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± Imams Jami‘a Ahmadiyya all over the world.institutions also have − − ± been established in Ghana, Indonesia and some other countries to train and prepare local missionaries.Thus, by the grace of God, Jami‘a Ahmadiyya institutions are busy day and night in the − ± implementation of what God Almighty has stated in the Holy Qur’an: − Ë ²Ëj¨À»BI ÆËj¿BÍ Ë jÎb»AÓ»A ÆÌ§fÍ Ò¿A ¸Ä¿ ŸN»Ë ‘ ä ê æ å æ ä æ ê ä æ å å æ ä ä ê æ ä æ ä ê ä æ å æ ì Ñ ì å æ å æ é ê æ å ä æ ä j¸ÄÀ»A ŧ ÆÌÈÄÍ È ê ä æ å æ ê ä ä æ ä æä wal takumminkum ummatuñyyad ‘una ilal khairi wa − ya’muruna bilma‘rufi wa yanhauna ‘anil munkar − − 353

Page 354

− And let there be among you a body of men who should invite to goodness, and enjoin equity and forbid evil.(3:105) (Jama'at Ahmadiyya ka Ta‘araf, Urdu, 1996, pp 222-224; Rabwah: Past and − ± − − Present, The Review of Religions, 23rd March, 1989, pp 19-21 ) Fadl-i- ‘Umar Hospital ± The aim of the is to serve humanity Fadl-i-‘Umar Hospital ± without making any distinction of color, race, religion or nationality and to provide to everyone in need of healthcare the best healthcare.Foundation stone of the Fadl-i-‘Umar Hospital ± building was laid down by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II on February ra ± ± − − ± 20, 1956.laid down the first three bricks; the first brick Hudur ± ± − which was laid by was brought from Qadian.As soon as the Hudur ± ± − first brick was laid a goat was sacrificed as.After laying Sadqa ± down the foundation, led silent prayer.The opening Hudur ± ± − ceremony for the newly constructed Hospital took place on March 21, 1958.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II led a lengthy silent prayer for ra ± ± − − ± the success of the program.The dignitaries of the town and the Chief Medical Officer, Dr.Mirza Munawar Ahmad attended the − ± opening ceremony.On the same day, in the evening, Hadrat Mirza ± ± − Bashir Ahmad laid down foundation of a mosque in the Hospital ra − ± area by placing a brick brought from Qadian in the foundation.This mosque is known as the " ", as this is the place Yadgiri Mosque − − − where on September 20, 1948, the first Prayer was led by Hadrat ± ± Musleh Ma‘ud ra , at the time when there was not a single building ± ± − constructed in Rabwah.The Hospital has two Departments: i.Administration ii.Medical Care Units The Medical Care Units include following departments: i.Medicine ii.Surgery iii.ENT iv.OBGY 354

Page 355

− BEGUM ZUBAIDAH BANI WING: A beautiful three story − − building with 40,000 sq.ft.covered area has been built in the memory of Begum Zubaidah Bani by her son, Sharif Ahmad Bani.This is the first building in Rabwah, which has been built using the Frame Construction system, and has an elevator.The ground floor has a gynecology outdoor section.The upper ground floor has an emergency room, operation theater and four labor rooms.The third floor has patients' admission ward, which includes private rooms.The wing was officially opened on February 20, 2003.The Hospital also has a Clinical Lab, a Pharmacy and an X-ray Department.London, U.K.In June, 1913, the first foreign mission was established in England.On September 23, 1924, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II attended the ra ± ± − − ± Wembley Conference in England, where his article "Ahmadiyyat, the True ± Islam" was read out.The Mosque, London was founded on October Fadl − ± 19, 1924 by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II himself.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ra ± ± − − ± ± ± − − ± IV currently resides in London close to the Mosque, from where he aba Fadl ± carries out his duties as Khalifatul Masih.− − ± Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) ± One sign out of the many signs and prophecies mentioned in the old religious books concerning the is related to Imam Mahdi − − the development of Satellite and Dish Antenna, and broadcasting of the programs of Ahmadiyya through these inventions.It is Jama'at ± − mentioned in the prophecies of the saints of the that a Ummah proclaimer of the will address from one place and he Imam Mahdi − − would be heard and seen all over the world.Hadrat Shah Rafeeuddin said that at the time of initiation rh ± ± − 355

Page 356

− from the Heaven this voice will come and it will be heard by the commoners and the elite of that place: ĄÎA Ë É» ̨ÀmB¯ ÔfÈÀ»A ɼ»A Ұμa AhÇ ( æ å æ êä ä ä æ å ä æ ä æ ê æ ä æ ê Õ å ä æ ê ä Ø Ð hadha khalifatulla hilmahdi fasma‘u lahu wa ati‘u − − − − − − − ± − − This is , vicegerent of God, so listen to what he says attentively Mahdi − and submit to him (Tarjma Qiyamat Namah, p 10) − − Hadrat Imam Ja‘far Sadiq said: rh ± ± − ± − 'In the age of , a believer in the East will be Imam Mahdi − − able to see his brother in the West and a believer in the West will be able to see his brother in the East.' (Najamussaqib, Vol.1, p 101) − These prophecies are clearly being fulfilled in our age.Since 1992, Friday Sermons and speeches of the fourth Caliph of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad as aba − ± ± − ± − ± are being broadcast from London throughout the world.Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA) is the first worldwide Muslim ± Satellite Broadcasting Channel.It is being run by a volunteer staff.MTA is one of the many very powerful signs of the fulfillment of the Divine promise of God Almighty to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi : as − "I shall cause thy message to reach the corners of the earth." (Tadhkirah: English translation, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, 1976, p 184) ± ± − In 1994, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV established MTA as a aba ± ± − − ± Satellite Television Station to spread the Unity of God throughout the world with objectives to unite mankind and to educate and train the Ahmadi Muslims who are increasing in number every year.± − 356

Page 357

− Currently, MTA can be watched in all five continents with over 150 countries utilizing this Divine blessing of Almighty Allah.− MTA is broadcast in several languages and some of its programs are simultaneously telecast in 7 different languages.At the direction of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV the aba ± ± − − ± Canadian took the initiative, with mutual efforts of the Jama'at − USA , to provide access of MTA to North America.The Jama'at − Earth Station, located at the vicinity of the Baitur Rahman Mosque, ± − Silver Spring, MD, provides the link through three satellites, to the North, Central and South American viewers.This signal is received directly in the homes of Americans and Canadians using a custom digital receiver system 24 hours a day.LOCAL ANJUMANS National Headquarters In each country, where Ahmadis are present, under the supervision ± − of at the local level, an is established Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya Anjuman ± ± with its National Headquarters at a central place.In each country, there is an or President who takes care and supervises the various activities Amir − of the in the country.Furthermore, in each country, people are Jama'at − elected at National level to perform the duties of the various departments of the.The in-charge of each department is called a Sadr Anjuman ± 'Secretary'.Elections/Appointment of the Office-bearers The (General Council) at its regular annual Majlis-i-Shura − meeting, every third year, elects office-bearers by show of hands from among the members of the organization.Their names are submitted by the to the Khalifatul Masih who may approve Amir − − − ± 357

Page 358

− the elected individuals to be a National office-bearer for the office for which each one was elected.Each National Office-bearer serves for three years or until such time as his successor is appointed as stated above.They are members of the National (National Executive): Majlis ‘Amila − National Majlis ‘Amila (National Executive) − The Amir, who is the Chairman of the Organization − The Na‘ib Amir − − General Secretary Secretary (Finance) Mal − Secretary (Moral Training) Tarbiyyat Secretary (Education) Ta‘lim − Secretary (Preaching) Tabligh − Secretary (Publication) Isha‘at − Secretary (Social Services) Amur-i-‘Ama − − Secretary (Properties) Ja‘idad − − Secretary Public Relations Secretary (Audio/Visual) Sami wa Basri − ± − Secretary (Wills) Wasaya ± − Secretary (Hospitality) Diyafat ± − Secretary Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Secretary Waqf-i-Jadid − Secretary Waqfi Nau Secretary (Matrimonial Affairs) Rishta Nata Appointed by the.Amir − − Ahmadiyya community exists in 175 countries of the world, and ± the local in each country is organized in the same way.The Jama'at − Administrative Head of the (In a country, region or a place) who is Jama'at − appointed by is called an.In the USA the Hadrat Khalifatul Masih Amir ± ± − − ± − Jama'at's National Headquarters are located at 15000 Good Hope Road, − Silver Spring, MD 20905, from where all the affairs of the Organization are administered by the.Amir − 358

Page 359

− Amir − A member of the Organization who is either elected by Majlis-i-Shura Khalifatul Masih and approved by or appointed by − − − ± the.The is head of the in a country Khalifatul Masih Amir Jama'at − − ± − − and is responsible for administering the affairs of the Organization in the country.The heads the National or Executive Amir ‘Amila − − Body, which consists of National Secretaries of various departments.As an administrative head, the exercises supreme Amir − authority in the of his country subject to his obedience to Jama'at − the , the Center and the limitations imposed upon Khalifatul Masih − − ± his authority by the rules and regulations approved by the Center.The missionaries and other office bearers of the Organization work under his supervision.The seeks necessary guidance from the Amir − Markaz Amir.The oversees spiritual, moral, missionary, − intellectual, economic, cultural and physical activities of the members of his and implements plans for the Jama'at − consolidation, development and welfare of the Community.All the secretaries and other members of the National and Majlis ‘Amila − office-bearers of subordinate work under his guidance and Jama'ats − supervision and are responsible to him for the discharge of their duties.359

Page 360

− Na ib Amir ’ − − The ’ (Assistant to the is appointed by the Na ib Amir Amir) − − − Amir Khalifatul Masih Na’ib Amir with the approval of the.The − − − ± − − assists the in the discharge of his duties.He may convene a Amir − meeting of the in the absence of the and Majlis ‘Amila Amir − − exercises all such powers of the as have been delegated to Amir − him by the.Amir − Missionary In-charge A missionary who is appointed by the to Khalifatul Masih − − ± be in-charge of and to exercise administrative control over all missionaries in a country.In some countries, the office is combined with that of.Amir − Local Chapters or Muqami Jama'ats − − − The may, with the approval of the , Amir Khalifatul Masih − − − ± establish a local branch of the Organization known as " Muqami − − Jama'at Chanda-paying ", in any location, where at least three − members of the Organization reside.Each has the Muqami Jama'at − − − following elected office-bearers as members of the Local Majlis ‘Amila: President, General Secretary and secretaries for various − other departments.Each member of the Organization residing within the jurisdiction of a becomes a member of the local.Each such Muqami Jama'at Jama'at − − − − member, who is an adult and not in arrears of for more than six Chanda months, is entitled to vote and be elected as an office-bearer.The National Executive ( directs the activities of Majlisi ‘Amila) − the through local ( ) secretaries throughout the country.Jama'at Muqami − − − 360

Page 361

− 13 AUXILIARIES OF THE JAMA AT ‘ − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra from the point of view of moral ± ± − − ± training of the members divided the ladies, men and children of Jama'at − the into various auxiliaries.These organization are strictly Jama'at − religious organizations and are not involved in politics in any way.These organizations are basically responsible for educational and moral training of their members and to try to stimulate the religious, spiritual and mental capacities of their members.It is compulsory for each member of the Jama'at to become a member of the auxiliary to which one belongs based − on the age and gender of the person.The following is a brief description of the various auxiliaries of the : Jama'at − During his Friday Sermon on November 3, 1989 in the Fadl ± Mosque, London, had announced the Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV aba ± ± − − ± following: "In future he will himself supervise all the Auxiliary Organizations viz.Majlis Ansarullah, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and Lajna Ima’illah, ± − − − ± − − all over the world.All these organizations will be responsible to Khalifatul − Masih and will invariably obtain instructions directly from him.The sphere − ± of Central Auxiliary Organizations at Rabwah shall henceforth be restricted to Pakistan only.At the National level the Heads of these Organizations shall in the future be designated as (President)." Sadr ± (Constitution of Majlis Ansarullah, Hameedullah, Vakilul A‘la, 1992) ± − − − − Until this announcement, the auxiliary organizations viz.Majalis − Ansarullah, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya and Lajna Ima’illah, ± − − − ± − − throughout the world, worked under the sphere of the Central Auxiliary Organizations whose Head-offices were in Rabwah, Pakistan.The heads of these central organizations were called (President)." Sadr ± 361

Page 362

− LAJNA IMA’ILLAH AND NASIRATUL − − − ± − AHMADIYYA ± LAJNA IMA’ILLAH − − This is a spiritual organization of the lady members of the.Jama'at − This organization was established on December 25, 1922.Every woman of the age 15 and above is member of the , while the girls Lajna Ima’illah − − younger than the age 15 years are the member of the organization called Nasiratul Ahmadiyya Nasiratul Ahmadiyya Lajna Ima’illah.is a branch of − ± − ± − ± − ± − − Ahmadiyya.Wherever there are three or more Ahmadi ladies they are ± ± − required to start a branch of makes Lajna Ima’illah.Lajna Ima’illah − − − − programs for educational and moral training of its members.They also do social work and preaching to non-Ahmadis.They have their own offices ± − and office-holders on the pattern of offices.also Jama'at's Lajna Ima’illah − − − has a payment system and funds collected are used to carry out Chanda various activities of the organization.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II defined the primary objectives of ra ± ± − − ± Lajna Ima’illah as: − − 1.To educate Ahmadi women and reinforce the necessity of ± − living their lives according to Islamic teachings.− 2.To prepare them to serve their fellow beings lovingly and to preach Islam in the best manner possible.− 3.To encourage them to instruct, guide and train their children in the precept and practices of Islam.− 4.To promote in Ahmadi women such a spirit of sacrifice as ± − to keep them ever ready for offering their lives, properties and their children in the cause of Islam and for the − preservation of the Ahmadiyya.Khilafat ± − 362

Page 363

− The progress made by Ahmadi women during the leadership of ± − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II is very dramatic, which started with the ra ± ± − − ± establishment of the organization.Educational institutions Lajna Ima’illah − − for women were established.Arrangement were made for higher education of Ahmadi women, particularly, through the establishment of Jami‘a ± − − Nusrat (Women's College) where beside the worldly education religious ± education is also given.This has encouraged women to get higher education.Furthermore, through these educational institutions it has been made sure that even the poor girls can get higher education, or at least the basic education.Through , women have been given Lajna Ima’illah − − training in handicrafts, encouraged to become speakers and to participate in debates.Furthermore, they have been encouraged to have women's only games and to take part in these games.Women's magazines have been published through which the women are developing the art of writing.Women hold their own monthly, yearly meetings and various other Jama'at functions, which has encouraged women to become excellent − organizers of meetings and speakers., Pakistan, publishes a Lajna Ima’illah − − monthly magazine called " " for Ahmadi women.Misbah ± − ± ± − Once, during the last days of the of , Khilafat Hadrat Fadli ‘Umar ra − ± ± ± the founder of the organization, a survey of Rabwah's Lajna Ima’illah − − population was done.The results of the survey was astonishing in the sense that although there were certain percentage of men who were illiterate, 100% of the women were literate.Furthermore, several women had passed the examinations and one of the women had "Maulvi Fadil' − − ± stood first in the exam in all of the Punjab province.Women not only made incredible progress in education through the organization, Lajna Ima’illah − − they also developed a great sense of monitory sacrifice.Several mosques in various countries of the world have been built through monetary contributions of the members of.There are innumerable Lajna Ima’illah − − examples that Ahmadi women gave all of their jewelry towards Mosque ± − Funds whenever an appeal for donations of funds was made by Khalifatul − Masih.− ± - is a spiritual organization of Ahmadi Lajna Ima’illah − − ± − women.Every Ahmadi lady who is more than 15 years old ± − 363

Page 364

− is required to become a member of the organization.- organization can be established in a Lajna Ima’illah Jama at ‘ − − − having at least three Ahmadi women.± − - Where there are less than three women, can not be Lajna established.However, the ladies can become member of Lajna Ima’illah through registration with the central − − organization.- The in-charge of wherever the Lajna Lajna Ima’illah − − chapter is established is called (President, Sadr Lajna ± Lajna Sadr's ‘Amila ) and a member of the (Executive ± − Body) is called a Secretary.- At the National level, the in-charge of the organization is called (National President) Sadr Lajna Markaziyya Lajna ± and her includes the following: Majlis ‘Amila − i.Na'ib Sadr x.Secretary Isha'at − ± − ii.General Secretary xi.Secretary Islahu Irshad ± − ± − iii.Na'ib Gen.Secretary xii.Secretary Tajnid (Census) − − iv.Secretary Ta‘lim xiii.Secretary Diafat − ± − v.Secretary Tarbiyyat xiv.Secretary Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − vi.Secretary Khidmati Khalq xv.Secretary Waqf-i-Jadid − vii.Secretary Mal xvi.Secretary Sihat-i-Jismani − ± − − viii.Secretary Nasirat xvii.Nazim Jalsa Salana − ± − − ± − − ix.Secretary Dastkari xviii.Honorary Members − − - The local President is elected through elections.The President appoints the various members of her Majlis ‘Amila Lajna , which are approved by the National − President.- The National President of is elected through voting Lajna and the election is approved by.Khalifatul Masih − − ± - National is elected for a two year term.National Sadr Lajna ± 364

Page 365

− Sadr Lajna can not be elected for more than three ± consecutive terms unless a special permission is granted by Khalifatul Masih.− − ± - National is responsible for submitting, regularly, Sadr Lajna ± Lajna Khalifatul Masih activities report to.− − ± LAJNA IMA’ILLAH PLEDGE − − ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ila ha illalla hu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.I affirm that I shall always be ready to sacrifice my life, property, time and children for the cause of faith and the community.I shall always adhere to truth and shall always be prepared to make every sacrifice for the perpetuation of the Ahmadiyya.Khilafat ± − NASIRATUL AHMADIYYA − ± − ± In 1928 an organization was started for the training of small girls which was later on named by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra (Hadrat Fadli ± ± − − ± ± ± ± ‘Umar ) Nasiratul Ahmadiyya ra as.− ± − ± - is a subsidiary organization.Nasiratul Ahmadiyya Lajna's − ± − ± 365

Page 366

− Seven to fifteen years old girls are members of this organization.- The , under the supervision of Nasiratul Ahmadiyya Lajna − ± − ± Ima’illah, conduct their own religious and intellectual − − affairs, and also organize their own There are Ijtima‘at.− − three standards: Standard I: Fourteen and fifteen years old girls.Standard II: Eleven to thirteen years old girls.Standard III: Seven to ten years old girls.- The person in-charge of the is called Nasiratul Ahmadiyya − ± − ± Secretary and she is a member of the Nasiratul Ahmadiyya − ± − ± executive of the.Lajna Ima’illah − − - have their own religious training programs, which Nasirat − ± − are conducted and supervised by the Secretary Nasiratul − ± − Ahmadiyya.The secretary sends report of her activities to ± the President,.Lajna Ima’illah − − - like also pay a fixed amount as Nasirat, Lajna, Chanda − ± − Nasirat.− ± − NASIRATUL AHMADIYYA PLEDGE − ± − ± ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ila ha illalla hu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − 366

Page 367

− One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.I solemnly promise that I shall always keep myself ready to serve Islam, my nation and my country and shall always adhere to truth.− MAJLIS KHUDDAMUL AHMADIYYA − ± This is a spiritual organization for the youth of the.This Jama'at − organization was established on January 31, 1938 and was named Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II on February 4, ra − ± ± ± − − 1938.Every Ahmadi between the ages of 15 and 40 years must become a ± − member of the.A member of this Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya − ± organization is called a The Motto of "Khadim".Majlis Khuddamul − − Ahmadiyya is: ± "Reformation (Moral training) of the nations cannot be done without the training of their youth." Like the other auxiliary organizations, in Majlis Khuddamul − Ahmadiyya also there are various offices and office-bearers for the ± educational, moral, and mental training, of the youth and also to inculcate in them love of social work.Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiyya is elected by voting by the members ± − ± of the.After voting at the Majlis-i-Shura, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya − − ± Majlis-i-Shura, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, the results of the voting − − ± are sent to for approval The Khalifatul Masih.Sadr Khuddamul − − ± ± − Ahmadiyya Majlis ‘Amila Majlis prepares his and gets approval of the ± − ‘Amila Khalifatul Masih from the.− − − ± The term of service for the and the is two Sadr Majlis ‘Amila ± − years.The can not be elected for more than three consecutive terms, Sadr ± unless grants special permission for the fourth term.Khalifatul Masih − − ± 367

Page 368

− Each Majlis makes a by Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Majlis ‘Amila − ± − appointing suitable as the following: Khuddam − i.Na’ib Qa’id viii.Secretary Tehrik-i-Jadid − − ± − ii.Secretary Umumi ix.Secretary Waqari ‘Amal ‘ − − − iii.Secretary Tajnid x.Secretary Sehati Jismani − ± ± − − iv.Secretary Tarbiyyat xi.Secretary Khidmat Khalq v.Secretary Ta‘lim xii.Secretary San‘at Tijarat − − vi.Secretary Mal xiii.Secretary Isha‘at − − vii.Secretary Waqf-i-Jadid − Khuddam Chanda pay to their organization according to fixed − rates.The financial year is from November 1 to October 31st of the next year.Majlis Pakistan, publishes a monthly Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, − ± magazine called " " for.Khalid the Khuddam − − KHUDDAMUL AHMADIYYA PLEDGE − ± ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ila ha illalla hu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.I solemnly pledge that I shall always be ready to sacrifice my life, wealth, time and honor for the sake of my Faith, Country and Nation.368

Page 369

− Likewise, I shall be ready to offer any sacrifice for guarding the Institution of.Moreover, I shall deem it essential to abide by Khilafat-i-Ahmadiyya − ± any decision made by."Ma‘ruf" Khalifatul Masih Insha’ Allah.− − − ± − − ATFALUL AHMADIYYA ± − ± A separate organization of the children between the ages of 7 and 15 years is established which is supervised by Majlis Khuddamul − Ahmadiyya 'modus operandi'.However, they have their own.A member of ± this children's organization is called a "Tifl".± When there are more than two children in a , it is required Jama'at − that a be established.Majlis Atfalul Ahmadiyya ± − ± Each should have a.Moreover, a Majlis Nazim Atfal − ± ± − knowledgeable or a acts as in-charge of and is Khuddam Nasir Atfal − − ± ± − called,.sees to it that 'Murabbi Atfal' Murabbi Atfal Atfalul Ahmadiyya − ± − − ± − ± − ± carries out their programs according to the.Each Majlis 'modus operandi' Atfalul Ahmadiyya Majlis ‘Amila Atfal makes a by appointing suitable as ± − ± − ± − the following: i.Secretary Umumi vii.Secretary Waqari ‘Amal ‘ − − − ii.Secretary Tajnid viii.Secretary Sehati Jismani − ± ± − − iii.Secretary Tarbiyyat ix.Secretary Khidmat Khalq iv.Secretary Ta‘lim x.Secretary San‘at Tijarat − − v.Secretary Mal xi.Secretary Isha‘at − − vi.Secretary Waqf-i-Jadid − pay to their organization according to fixed rates.Atfal Chanda ± − Like , the financial year is from November 1 to Khuddamul Ahmadiyya − ± October 31st of the next year.Majlis Pakistan, publishes a monthly Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, − ± magazine called " " for the.Tash- idhul adh-han Atfal h ± − − ± − 369

Page 370

− ATFALUL AHMADIYYA PLEDGE ± − ± ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ila ha illalla hu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa − − − ± − − − − ash-hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.I solemnly pledge that I shall always be ready to serve Islam, − Ahmadiyyat the Nation and the Country.I shall always speak the truth.I ± shall not abuse anybody.And I shall strive to obey all the commandments of..Khalifatul Masih Insha’ Allah − − ± − − MAJLIS ANSARULLAH ± − − This is an organization of the elders of the.Ahmadis 40 Jama at ‘ − ± − years and over in age are the members of this organization.Hadrat Musleh ± ± ± ± Ma‘ud ra , laid foundation of this organization on July 26, 1940.The − members of this organization are called.also has Ansar Majlis Ansarullah ± − ± − − its system.Every Ahmadi above the age of 40 years is required to Chanda ± − become a member of.A member of is Majlis Ansarullah Majlis Ansarullah ± − − ± − − called a ' '.Every pays 1% of his monthly income as Nasir Nasir Chanda − ± − ± Ansar Chanda Ijtima‘ for the whole year.They also pay (1.5% of the ± − − monthly income once a year) and ($10/year).Chanda Publication Ansarullah's financial year is from January 1st to December 31st of a year.± − − 370

Page 371

− Majlis Ansarullah, USA, publishes a quarterly magazine called ± − − " " and Pakistan, publishes a monthly magazine Al-Nahl Majlis Ansarullah, ± − − called " " for the.Ansarullah Ansar ± − − − Ansar are divided into two categories based on the age: ± − i.: above the age of 55 years belong to this Saf-i-Awwal Ansar ± ± − category.ii.: between the ages 40 and 55 years Saf-i-Doem Ansar ± ± − belong to this category.and ’ are elected by voting by Sadr Ansarullah Na ib Sadr Safi Doem ± ± − − − ± ± the members of the.Before that all the Majlis-i-Shura, Majlis Ansarullah − ± − − local are asked to nominate for the posts of and ’ Majalis Ansar Sadr Na ib − ± − ± − Sadr Safi Doem Majlis Ansarullah Ansar , by holding a meeting of the in ± ± ± − − ± − their.These nominations are considered by National , Majlis Majlis ‘Amila − Majlis Ansarullah Majlis.The names recommended by the National ± − − ‘Amila Khalifatul Masih Amir are sent to through for his approval before − − − ± − being presented to , for voting.After Majlis-i-Shura Majlis Ansarullah − ± − − voting at the , the results of the voting Majlis-i-Shura, Majlis Ansarullah − ± − − are sent to for the approval of the and ’ Khalifatul Masih Sadr Na ib Sadr − − ± ± − ± Safi Doem, Majlis Ansarullah.± ± − − The prepares his and gets approval Sadr Ansarullah Majlis ‘Amila ± ± − − − of the from the.Majlis ‘Amila Khalifatul Masih − − − ± The term of service for the , ’ and the Sadr Na ib Sadr Safi Doem ± − ± ± Majlis ‘Amila Sadr Na ib Sadr Safi Doem is two years.The and the ’ can − ± − ± ± not be elected for more than three consecutive terms, unless Khalifatul − Masih grants special permission for the fourth term.− ± ’ can not be more than 47 years old.- Na ib Sadr Safi Doem − ± ± - At the local level the in-charge of the is called a Majlis Za‘im.− 371

Page 372

− A member of the National is Majlis ‘Amila, Majlis Ansarullah − ± − − called a ’ , while, a member of the local is called a Qa id Majlis ‘Amila − − Muntazim.± The , consists of the following Majlis ‘Amila Majlis Ansarullah − ± − − office-bearers: i.Sadr ix.Qa’id Mal ± − − ii.Na'ib Sadr Awwal x.Qa’id Tajnid − ± − − iii.Na'ib Sadr Saf-i-Doem xi.Qa’id Waqf-i-Jadid − ± ± − − iv.Qa’id ‘Umumi xii.Qa’id Tehrik-i-Jadid − − − − ± − − v.Qa’id Ta'lim xiii.Qa’id Isha‘at − − − − vi.Qa’id Tarbiyyat xiv.Qa’id Dhihanat wa Sihati Jismani − − − ± ± − − vii.Qa’id 'Ithar xv.Auditor − − − viii.Qa’id Tabligh xv.Arakin Khususi − − − − ± − ± − (Members nominated by the ).Sadr ± ANSARULLAH PLEDGE ± − − ÆA fÈq A Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfY Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈq A ( ( ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ( ( å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ash hadu alla ila ha illalla hu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash − − − − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh ± − − I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah.He is − One and has no partner.And I bear witness that Muhammad is His ± Servant and Messenger.I solemnly pledge that I shall endeavor throughout my life for the propagation and consolidation of Ahmadiyyat in Islam and I shall stand ± − guard in defense of institution of.I shall not hesitate to offer any Khilafat − sacrifice in this regard.Moreover, I shall exhort my children to always remain dedicated and devoted to.Khilafat Insha Allah.− − − 372

Page 373

− 14 INSTITUTIONS AND VARIOUS SCHEMES OF THE JAMA‘AT − DARUL QADA − ± − In order to resolve the internal disputes of the members of the Ahmadiyya community, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , in 1925, established ra ± ± ± − − ± a (The Islamic Judicial System) Section under the Qada Sadr Anjuman ± − ± Ahmadiyya Darul Qada.In , Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II appointed ra ± − ± − ± ± − − ± knowledgeable and righteous persons as (Judges).He also Qadis − ± − established a board within the to which the decisions of the Darul Qada − ± − judges could be appealed.Furthermore, the last appeal can be made to the Khalifatul Masih Jama'at.The main advantage of this system is that − − ± − members can solve their disputes internally (Within the system) Jama'at − and do not have to waste a lot of time and money by going through the Government's legal system.The two characteristics of judicial Jama'at's − system are: i.All disputes are resolved according to the of Islam.Shari‘ah − − ii.There is no fee charged to the disputing parties.All the expenses are borne by the.Jama'at − The deals with only civil disputes of such matters of a Qada ± − disciplinary nature as are not required by the laws of the Country to be dealt with by the ordinary courts.No member of the Community may 373

Page 374

− commence or prosecute a proceeding of a civil nature against another member, save in the.If for some reason it is found necessary to have Qada ± − recourse to the ordinary civil courts, this may only be done with permission obtained from the appropriate department of the Community.One special feature of the Judicial system established in the Community is that while the Judges occupy themselves with the decision of cases, machinery for execution of decrees is not attached to the but is a part Qada ± − of the department of.The whole system, of course, Nazir ‘Umuri Ama − ± − − works on a voluntary basis, and the only ultimate sanction behind its successful and efficient working is the moral and spiritual value that every member attaches to its membership of the Community.Apart from the moral and spiritual gain, the actual working of the department saves the Community the heavy expenses of litigation, which are a sad feature of the administration of justice in the ordinary courts.No court fees are levied by the The rules of procedure and evidence followed are simple and Qada.± − free from many of the technicalities that often operate to defeat justice under more formal systems.(Ahmadiyyat Today, Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Review of Religions, Vol.± ± − − LXXX, No.2, February 1985, pp 20-21) FADL-I-‘UMAR FOUNDATION ± In 1965, Khalifatul Masih III established the rh Fadl-i-‘Umar − − ± ± Foundation in the memory of Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , who was named ra ± ± − − ± Fadl-i-‘Umar in one of the revelation of the Promised Messiah and ± Mahdi.Establishment of the foundation was proposed by Hadrat Zafrulla as − ± ± ± Khan Sahib.The purpose of this Foundation was to carry on all the works ra in which Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II had taken particular interest.An ra ± ± − − ± appeal was made to the community to raise 2.5 million Rupees as the capital of the Foundation.The community participated in this venture overwhelmingly, and the actual contributions far exceeded the initial target, which was then raised to 5.2 million rupees.The main objectives of the foundation are: 374

Page 375

− To assist in research work.To assist in new missionary ventures.To assist in new educational effort.To assist in economic welfare.The major goal of the Foundation is to compile and publish Friday Sermons and speeches of To Hadrat Fadl-i-‘Umar , Khalifatul Masih II.ra ± ± ± − − ± run the Foundation, there is a Board of Directors whose members are appointed by.The official work of the Foundation is Khalifatul Masih − − ± carried out by the Secretary,.Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation ± The Foundation has published the following 33 books by 2002: 1.Khutbat-i-Mahmud ra Thirteen volumes have been published.− ± − 2.Sawanih Fadl-i-‘Umar ra ra Life History of Fadl-i-‘Umar : Four − ± ± volumes have been published and compilation of the fifth volume is near completion.3.Ro’ya wa Kashuf Fadl-i-‘Umar ra ra Visions and revelations of Fadl-i-‘Umar − − ± ± from 1895 to 1960.4.Siratun-Nabi sa sa Character of the Holy Prophet.− − 5.Fada’ilul Qur’an A collection of speeches of Fadl-i-‘Umar ra ± − ± about the excellences of the Holy Qur’an.− 6.Anwarul ‘ulum A set of twenty books of Fadl-i-‘Umar : ra − − ± Twelve volumes to-date have been published.The Foundation also encourages scholars of the to write Jama'at − research articles on various religious topics and compete for the following five monetary awards given by the Foundation.Basic Islamic beliefs such as, God Almighty; Ist Prize: − Attributes of God; Necessity of Prophethood; The standards for the recognition of a Prophet; Prayer; Divine decree; Miracles; Life after death; Heaven and Hell, Necessity of , etc.Shari‘ah − 375

Page 376

− Islamic worships or any aspect of Islamic Morals.2nd Prize: − − History of the religions, History of the earlier 3rd Prize: Prophets, History of Islam, History of the spread of − Islam in any country.History of Ahmadiyyat, − ± History and character of a Companion of the Holy Prophet or a prominent Muslim, etc.sa Islamic economics such as Banking and interest, 4th Prize: − Insurance system, Labor and related sources, the system of trade companies, Industry, International trade.These articles should compare the prevalent systems with the systems run by applying Islamic − principles.Contributions of Muslim scholars' research and developmental work towards the progress of any worldly knowledge.Any scholarly subject outside the subjects belonging 5th Prize: to the above four categories.The articles can be written in Urdu, other languages of Pakistan and − other foreign languages.The Foundation has received more than 120 articles and has given 33 prizes, which include three articles from America and Germany.Besides the prizes towards academic work, the Fadl-i-‘Umar ± Foundation funds are used for construction of buildings, which are required by for public use.The buildings constructed by these Jama at ‘ − funds are as follows: Sara-ai Fadl-i-‘Umar (Fadl-i-‘Umar Guest House) − ± ± This beautiful building, located in the south corner of the compounds of in Rabwah, is a unique Guest House.Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Foundation of this Guest House was laid down on February 20, 376

Page 377

− 1974, that is on.Foundation spent 1.1 million Musleh Ma‘ud Day ± ± − rupees towards construction of the building, which is mainly used as a Guest House for foreign delegates.The building is furnished with the best quality furniture and has all the modern facilities.Khilafat Library Building − All the funds needed for the construction of the Khilafat − Library building and purchase of the Library furniture and other modern amenities were provided by the Foundation.Later on the Foundation spent another 800,000 Rupees towards construction of an extension block of the Library which doubled the capacity of the Library.DARUL DIAFAT (LANGAR KHANA; FREE − ± − − PUBLIC KITCHEN) While describing the five branches for the propagation of Islam in − his book, , the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Fateh Islam Jama'at ± − ± − writes about the third branch as follows: "The third branch of this movement is those people who travel and visit in search of truth and other different reasons, and those who after getting the news of this Heavenly movement come to meet me.This branch is also continuously developing.Although on some days less, but on the other days a large number of people start coming.For example, during the past seven years, slightly more than 60,000 guests may have come.How many of these active people may have spiritually benefited from the speeches, and how many of them may have found solution for difficulties and may have overcome their weaknesses; only God knows." (Ruhani Khaza’in Vol.3, Fateh Islam, p 11-15) − − − − − Thus, the great object for which " was Langar Khana Masih Ma‘ud as − − ± − 377

Page 378

− established was that there is a proper boarding and lodging arrangement for those who travel in search of truth and the others who visit the center due to some other reasons, and they do not feel uncomfortable in any way.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi had a great love for hospitality.as − Accordingly, he laid down the foundation of the Langar Khana Masih − − ± Ma‘ud.Langar Khana as At present, in the in Rabwah, 500 guests can be − − accommodated under normal circumstances and more than 3,000 under extraordinary circumstances.Daily around 1,500 guests eat food, and at the same time free food is provided to a large number of poor people.At the occasion of various functions, boarding and lodging Jama'at − arrangements of the guests are carried out under the supervision of Darul − Diafat administration.Besides hospitality, various other departments are ± − associated with the.These include the following: Darul Diafat − ± − Baitul Karamah − Baitul Karamah is an institution where such old and weak − people who can not take care of themselves, and there is no one to take care of them are provided permanent residence.Baitul Karamah Darul Diafat is a part of.− − ± − Kafalat-i-Yatama − − Another section being run by the department of Darul − Diafat Kafalat-i-Yatama is.There is a committee which runs the ± − − − Kafalat-i-Yatama Afsar scheme, and its secretary is the (In-charge) − − Darul Diafat Afsar Darul Diafat.Through the decisions of the − ± − − ± − committee are implemented.At present, 1,500 orphans belonging to 650 families and 650 widows are being provided stipends permanently.The organization also financially helps orphan girls towards their marriage expenses.378

Page 379

− NUSRAT JAHAN SCHEME ± − In 1967, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III visited several European rh ± ± − − ± countries and in Copenhagen, Denmark announced the scheme of " Nusrat ± Jahan Reserve Fund".The funds collected under the scheme were to be − used in establishing medical centers and educational institutions in Africa.After touring the West African countries in 1970, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − ± III announced in Gambia a scheme to expand the activities of the rh Movement in West Africa through the establishment of a number of schools and hospitals.On May 24, 1970, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III at the rh Fadl ± ± − − ± ± Mosque, London, UK, announced the in these Nusrat Jahan Scheme ± − words: "In Gambia God Almighty forcefully inspired me that this is the time when I should spend at least 100,000 Pounds in the West African countries.If I do so, God Almighty will bless the scheme and will produce excellent results." (Al-Fadl, July 15, 1970, p 7) ± The new scheme was named and Hadrat Nusrat Jahan Scheme ± − ± ± Khalifatul Masih III appealed to the Community to raise 100,000 pound rh − − ± sterling over the next three years.Furthermore, he appealed to the Ahmadi ± − teachers and doctors to volunteer themselves for service in these African countries.The response of the community in making financial donations as well as volunteering their services was overwhelming.By the grace of God the members donated 200,000 pounds towards the scheme.Very soon, schools and hospitals started to be established in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Gambia and Sierra Leone.Just six months after announcement of the scheme, in September 1970 was established in Nusrat Jahan Academy ± − Ghana.On November 1, 1970 the first hospital under this scheme was 379

Page 380

− established at Kokofu in Ghana.In Just two year from the beginning of the scheme, by December 1972, by the grace of God, 14 Hospitals and 9 Higher Secondary Schools were established in West Africa.Thus, the results of this scheme have been most gratifying.The effort of the Movement has not only provided educational and medical services in remote regions, which were completely devoid of any such facility, but, more importantly, the close contact of Ahmadi doctors and other workers ± − with the local population has forged strong bonds of international brotherhood.The detail of the Ahmadiyya medical centers and educational ± institutions started under this scheme is as follows: Educational Institutions and Medical Centers Established Under the Nusrat Jahan Scheme ± − NO.COUNTRY NO.OF HIGH SCHOOLS NO.OF HOSPITALS 1.Gambia 3 5 2.Ghana 7 6 3.Nigeria 5 9 4.Uganda 1 2 5.Sierra Leone 20 4 6.Liberia 1 1 7.Ivory Coast 1 1 ___________________________________________________________________ TOTAL 38 28 Majlis Nusrat Jahan Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman is a part of ± − ± − − Ahmadiyya Nusrat Jahan , Rabwah.Its affairs are managed by the ± ± − Committee whose Chairman is the.The Vakil A‘la Tehrik-i-Jadid − − ± − Committee, works under the supervision of.Its Hadrat Khalifatul Masih ± ± − − ± day to day business is conducted by Secretary,.Majlis Nusrat Jahan ± − 380

Page 381

− CENTENARY JUBILEE SCHEME On the last day of Jalsa Salana 1973 (December 28, 1973), Hadrat − − ± ± Khalifatul Masih III announced this grand scheme, not only to mark the rh − − ± 100 years of existence of Ahmadiyya Muslim on March 23, 1989, Jama'at ± − but also to plan an intensive program to be undertaken during the next century for spreading Islam.− Under this scheme, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III appealed to raise rh ± ± − − ± a fund of 25 million rupees in sixteen years (1974-1989) to expand projects of foreign missions and translations of the Holy Qur’an, and to − install printing presses and broadcasting systems.By the grace of God Almighty, from more than fifty-four Jama'at − countries paticipated in this grand scheme, which in addition to other projects, resulted in the construction of a mosque in Berg, Sweden and another in Oslo, Norway.Also, five new centers were opened in Jama'at − the UK.(Basics of Religious Knowledge, Third Edition, Sheikh Abdul Hadi, p241) BUYUTUL HAMD SCHEME − ± On returning from Spain, after performing opening ceremony of the first mosque built in Spain at Pedro Abad in the last 700 years, Hadrat − ± ± Khalifatul Masih IV on October 24, 1982, in his Friday sermon delivered aba − − ± at in Rabwah, announced the Scheme as Aqsa Mosque Buyutul Hamd ± − − ± follows: "In this regard Scheme God Almighty has inspired (Buyutul Hamd ) − ± me to start a project which I am going to announce at this occasion.The project is that to offer thanks for building a House of God at Pedro Abad, − Spain we should concentrate towards building houses for the poor.This 381

Page 382

− will be a practical way of thanking God almighty." At another occasion, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV announced: aba ± ± − − ± "I would like to spend 10 million Rupees, before the Jubilee, towards building and distribution of houses to the poor." This scheme by the grace of God was very successful.A Buyutul − Hamd colony, consisting of 100 houses (90 houses have been constructed ± and 10 houses are under construction), has been established in Rabwah.Ninety families are living in the colony.The colony has its own primary school and dispensary.Each house was built at the cost of more than 500,000 Rupees.At the same time, millions of Rupees have been distributed among the deserving poor people.Furthermore, 300 families have been given financial assistance.A huge Hostel called, " Darul Ikram" − − has been established to provide accommodation to the orphans.(Jama'at Ahmadiyya ka Ta‘araf, Urdu, 1996, p 302) − ± − − WAQF-I-‘ARDI SCHEME − − means temporary donation of one's time for a short Waqfi ‘Ardi − ± − period of time.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III instituted this scheme early in rh ± ± − − ± his , under which Ahmadi Muslims would spend at least two Khilafat − ± − weeks of their time at a designated place in the country and teach the local community the Holy Qur’an and explain to them the religion of Islam.− − WAQF-I-NAU SCHEME In his Friday sermon delivered on April 3, 1987 at the Fadl ± Mosque, London, under Divine guidance Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV aba ± ± − − ± announced the blessed scheme of.At this occasion, while Waqf-i-Nau stating the aims and objectives of the scheme, he stated the following: " While we are making efforts to get an increased number of 382

Page 383

− spiritual children through preaching before entering into the next Century, we should also devote in the way of Allah, our children who will be born − during the next two years....I am presenting this scheme so that a great army of devoted children may be entering the next Century free of the worldly desires but as slaves of the Holy Prophet Muhammad Mustafa.sa ± ± ± So that we are presenting young children as a present to God Almighty.There is a great need of such a devotion, because, during the next 100 years Islam and Ahmadiyyat will spread so much everywhere in the world − ± that we need thousands of trained servants for that.We need such devotees who for the sake of God Almighty will become slaves of Muhammad ± Rasulullah.We need devotees in large numbers from all sections of the sa − − life and from all countries....As I have mentioned there is great need for a large number of devotees in the next Century of Ahmadiyyat.From all ± walks of life, the devotees should come so that we could present them to God Almighty with the intention that these are the devotees from whose abilities the people of the next Century have to benefit.So this is a present which we have to give to the people of the next Century.Thus, whosoever has the ability to do so, should get ready to present this gift....God Almighty has directed me to present to you this scheme that you should promise that whosoever gets a child during the next two years he will present it to the for the sake of Allah....If people, while praying, Jama'at − − will devote their children, which will be born during the next two years, then a beautiful and well trained (Devotees) will get ready to Waqfin − − sacrifice their lives for the sake of God in a short period of time.May God Almighty Divinely help us to do so." (Khutbah Jumu'ah, April 3, 1987) ± Initially, this scheme was for children born during two years after the announcement.However, at the request of a large number of Ahmadis, ± − this period was extended to another two years.has stated in one of Hudur ± ± − his speeches at the Annual Convention at London, UK in 2000: "He had desired of getting 15,000 devotees in this Scheme.However, to date there are 20,515 children.There are Waqfin-i-Nau − 14,259 boys and 6,256 girls.The children are devoted towards Waqf-i-Nau Scheme before their birth and it is not known to the parents whether the 383

Page 384

− newborn will be a boy or a girl.This 2 to 1 ratio of boys compared to girls is a natural phenomenon created by God Almighty.Boys are more useful to as they can be easily spread all around the world for Jama'at Jama'at − − work." (Speech by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV , UK Convention, 2000) aba ± ± − − ± VARIOUS JAMA AT ASSOCIATIONS ‘ − All professional societies within the Ahmadiyya Movement in ± Islam have the status of Affiliated Entities.Each entity functions in − accordance with its organizing structure and constitution as approved by the , or his appointed representative.Any proposed action Khalifatul Masih − − ± not authorized by the organizing structure and constitution of the professional societies will be subject to prior approval of the Khalifatul − Masih.Following are some of the professional associations of the − ± Ahmadiyya Muslim.Jama'at ± − 1.Ahmadiyya Muslim Medical Association ± 2.Association of Ahmadi Muslim Scientists ± − 3.Association of Ahmadi Muslim Architects and Engineers ± − 4.Association of Ahmadi Computer Professionalists ± − 5.Association of Ahmadi Muslim Students ± − 384

Page 385

− 15 MAGAZINES AND NEWSPAPERS OF THE AHMADIYYA JAMA‘AT ± − AL-HAKAM AND AL-BADR ± The very first newspaper of the Ahmadiyya Movement was called ± Al-Hakam and was published for the first time on October 8, 1897.Hadrat ± ± ± Sheikh Ya‘qub ‘Ali ‘Irfani was its Editor.The paper was initially ra − − − − published from Amritsar, but later on it was transferred to Qadian.Five years later, in 1902, another newspaper called was started from Al-Badr Qadian.The first Editor of was Hadrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Al-Badr ra ± ± − ± ± − and the paper continues to be published from Qadian to this very day.Both newspapers played a historical role in recording the speeches, revelations, addresses and conversations of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and in as − preserving the early history of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam.± − THE DAILY AL-FADL AND THE AL-FADL ± ± INTERNATIONAL WEEKLY On June 19, 1913, the newspaper ' was published for the Al-Fadl' ± first time.In 1935, the ' , which was started as a bi-weekly Urdu Al-Fadl' ± − newspaper became a daily publication.At present, the daily is Al-Fadl ± being published from Rabwah, Pakistan.The International 'Al-Fadl ± Weekly', which was first published in January 1994, is being published from London, UK.Its editor is Maulana Naseer Ahmad Qamar.385

Page 386

− REVIEW OF RELIGIONS AND TASH-HIDHUL ± − ADH-HAN − On January 15, 1901, Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi as ± ± − announced the publication of the magazine, 'Review of Religions'.Currently, the magazine is published monthly from London, UK.The Tash- idhul Adh-han h magazine was started as a quarterly magazine on ± − − March 1, 1906 from Qadian by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II.The magazine ra ± ± − − ± was named by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.Currently, the magazine as − is being published by , Pakistan in Rabwah, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya − ± Pakistan.386

Page 387

− 16 CHANDA (SUBSCRIPTION) SYSTEM OF THE JAMA‘AT − SPENDING IN THE CAUSE OF ALLAH − All religions seem to promote giving alms and other philanthropic spending in one way or another.In some religions spending in the cause of Allah is institutionalized by levying a well defined tithe.In others, the − method is left to the free will of the individual as to how and how much to spend.In Islam, we find both an institutionalized mode of spending as − well as non-institutionalized modes of spending, with their respective spheres well defined.Furthermore, Islam instructs man to spend in the − cause of Allah, keeping in view all the do's and don'ts mentioned in the − Qur’an.The Holy Qur’an is very clear on which spending in the cause of − − Allah will find favor with Him and which will be rejected.Islam also − − clearly defines the areas of spending of the prescribed religious tithes, leaving no ambiguity whatsoever.(An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 36-37) − ± ± − ± − ± God Almighty in the Holy Qur’an says regarding spending in the − way of God: ÆÌ´°ÄÍ Èijki BÀ¿ Ë , ‘ ö ä æ å ê æå æ å Ð æ ä ä ì ê ä wa mimma razaqnahum yunfiqun − − − And spend out of what We have provided for them.(2:4) 387

Page 388

− ONJÃA ÒJY ½RÀ· ɼ»A ½ÎJm Ó¯ È»AÌ¿A ÆÌ´°ÄÍ ÅÍh»A ½R¿ ‘ æ ä ä æ ë ä î ì ä ê ä ä ä ê Õ ê æê ä æ ê æ å ä ä æ ä ä æ å ê æå ä æ ê ì å ä ä ÕFrÍ ÅÀ» ±¨zÍ É¼»AË ÒJY Ò B¿ Ò¼JÄm ½· Ó¯ ½IBÄm ©Jm r È å ä ì æ ä ê å ê Ð å å Õ ä î È ì ä å Ú éê î ä å æ ë å é ê å æ ê ä ê ä ä ä æ ä Áμ§ ©mAË É¼»AË ,Ñ æ ê ä Ñ ê ä å Õ ä mathalulladhina yunfiquna amwalahum fi sabilillahi − − − − − − kamathali habbatin ambatatt sab‘a sanabila fi kulli ± − − sumbulatimmi’atu habbah wallahu yuda‘ifu li mañyyasha ± − ± − − wallahu wasi‘un ‘alim − − − The similitude of those who spend their wealth for the cause of Allah is − like the similitude of a grain of corn which grows seven ears, in each ear a hundred grains.And Allah multiplies further for whomsoever He it − pleases; and Allah is Bountiful, All-Knowing.(2:262) − A tradition of the Holy Prophet is: sa - ±¨y Ò B¿ ©Jm É» KN· ɼ»A ½ÎJm Ó¯ Ò´°Ã μ°ÃA Å¿ r ( î æ ê ê Ú ê å æ ä ä ä ê å ê Õ ê æê ä æ ê í ä ä ä ä ä æä æ ä man anfaqa nafaqatan fi sabilillahi kutiba lahu sab‘u mi’ati − − − − di‘fin ± He who spends in the cause of Allah has his reward seven hundred times.− (Tirmidhi Bab Fadlun nafaqata fi sabilillah) − − ± − − − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi states regarding the as ± ± − importance of financial sacrifices: "Take note of the fact that there is not a single movement in the World which can run without subscription.The subscriptions were 388

Page 389

− collected during the periods of the Holy Prophet , Hadrat Moses and sa as ± ± Hadrat ‘Isa and all other Messengers.Hence it is essential for the people as ± ± − − of our to be watchful in this respect....Let every member of our Jama'at − Jama'at make a pledge that he would regularly pay a certain amount as − subscription.Allah the Exalted blesses the sustenance of the person who − makes a pledge for His sake."This time, when a big journey is undertaken for preaching, a register should be maintained.Whoever takes , his Bai‘at name and promise for should be entered in it.Everyone should Chanda pledge what he will give for the school and how much for the Langar Khana (Public Kitchen).− There are many who are unaware of the collection of.Chandas Such people must be advised that if they have a true relationship, they should make a covenant with God, the Exalted, that they will pay regularly a certain amount as....If they can not make even this pledge then Chanda what is the use of their calling themselves the members of this If Jama'at? − a scrooge pays a quarter penny a day, he can contribute a considerable amount.Oceans are formed from drops.If someone eats four loaves, he should spare one for the Movement and make it a habit to contribute in this way.It is not our Movement alone, which has introduced.It Chanda was collected in times of need in the days of the past Prophets also.There was the time when was merely mentioned once and the full Chanda household was brought and presented as such.Once the Holy Prophet sa said that people should offer whatever they can, and he wanted to see how much they contributed.Hearing this, Hadrat Abu Bakr brought all he had ra ± ± − in his house, and Hadrat ‘Umar presented half of what he had.The Holy ra ± ± Prophet told the people, 'This is the difference in your standards'.sa These are the times when people do not even know that contribution is also necessary.They themselves are living in affluence.On the other hand, look at Hindus, etc., they collect millions, start businesses, build huge religious buildings and spend on other such occasions.Whereas our are quite meager.Therefore, if someone does not Chandas make a pledge, he should be excommunicated.He is a hypocrite and has a darkened heart.We do not say that it should be paid every month in Rupees, but we only say to make a pledge and pay regularly, and the 389

Page 390

− pledge should not be violated.(Companions of the Holy Prophet ) Sahaba sa ± ± − were taught in the very beginning: ÕÓq Å¿ AÌ´°ÄM B¿Ë ÆÌJZM BÀ¿ AÌ´°ÄM ÓNY jJ»A AÌ»BÄM Å» Œ î æ ä æ ê æ å ê æå ä ä È ä æ í ê å ì ê æ å ê æå Õ ä ì ê æ å ää æ ä μ§ ÉI ɼ»A ÆB¯ ,‘ Ñ æ ê ä × ê ä Õ ì ê ä l an tanalul birra hatta tunfiqu mimma tuhibbun wa ma tunfiqu − ± − − − ± − − − min shai’in fa innallaha bihi ‘alim − − − Never shall you attain to righteousness unless you spend out of that which you love; and whatever you spend, Allah surely knows it well.− (3:93) This verse of the Holy Qur’an exhorts for monetary contributions − ( ) and encourages the people to spend for the sake of religion.Chandas This is a covenant with Allah and must be fulfilled.If it is not − fulfilled, it is a breach of trust.One can not face a petty official if he breaks his pledge with him, then how will he face the Omnipotent God.A single man's aid means nothing; and it is collective help that counts, and it has blessings.Mighty kingdoms also run on.The only difference Chanda is that worldly governments levy taxes and receive them with force, while we leave it to each individual to pay voluntarily.By giving , Chanda ‘Iman − − increases, and it is done with love and sincerity.Therefore, thousands of people, who do , should be told to pledge some amount and pay Bai‘at regularly without an exception." "What can we expect from a person who does not assist this movement according to his capability with a few cents, and how does the movement benefit from his membership.An ordinary man, however impoverished he might be when he goes to the market, takes something for himself and his children in accordance with his financial position.Then what about this Movement, which has been established by God the exalted with magnificent objectives.Is it not worthy enough of expenditure of a few cents?...There are some who make a pledge of allegiance and 390

Page 391

− solemnly promise that they would give precedence to the religion over worldly affairs.Yet when the need arises they maintain a tight grip on their pockets.Can anyone achieve any religious objectives with such ardent love of the world? Can the membership of these people ever benefit the Movement? Never, never....Hence, I stress upon everyone of you whether present here or not to keep your brethren informed of subscription.Urge even those who lack in resources to pay subscription.Such an opportunity will never come again.What a blessed period is this that none is asked to sacrifice his life.This is an age, not of sacrificing lives, but only of spending wealth in accordance with one's capacity....The person who pays a modest amount but does so regularly is better than the one who offers more but only occasionally." (Al-Badr 17 July 1903; Malfuzat, Vol.6, pp 38-43) − − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi further states: as ± ± − "Anyone who helps me during my life in my religious needs according to my instructions, will be with me in the Hereafter.Insha’ Allah − I do not believe that anyone who spends on these vital religious requirements will experience any reduction in his wealth; rather it will be blessed with abundance.With full trust in Allah, you should act with − courage and fortitude.This is the time of serving the faith.A time will later come when even a mountain of gold will not equal a penny spent now.What a blessed time it is! The one appointed by God, whom millions had awaited for centuries, is among you....The revelations from Almighty Allah have made it abundantly clear that only they will be − counted as members of the community who spend their money.Do not imagine that you earn your wealth by your own power; it is a blessing of God.Do not imagine that by spending a part of it you are doing a favor to God; rather it is God's favor on you that He has called you to serve His faith.In truth, if all of you leave me He will raise a new nation to undertake this service.Keep in mind that this is a Heavenly task; your 391

Page 392

− contribution is only for your betterment.Lest any of you feel pride that you have done such a sacrifice.I tell you repeatedly that God does not depend on your sacrifice.Nay, it is His blessing upon you that He has given you an opportunity to serve." (Collections of Advertisements, The Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Vol.3, pp as − 497-498) "It is obvious that you cannot love two things; it is not possible for you to love your wealth and love God.You can only love one.Therefore, fortunate is the person who loves God.If anyone of you will love God and then spends wealth in His cause, I firmly believe that his wealth will also be blessed more than others' because wealth does not come by itself.It comes with the Will of God.Therefore, anyone who gives up a part of his wealth for the sake of Allah will certainly receive it back.But anyone, who does not serve the − cause of Allah because of his love of his wealth, will certainly lose that − wealth." CHANDA (MONETARY DONATIONS) Chandas are the contributions that every Ahmadi is obliged to pay, ± − according to the principles laid down by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and his successors, to the Organization.as − Some are obligatory, while others are voluntary.The Chandas obligatory have a fixed rate and must be paid at the prescribed Chandas rate.However, those members who are facing financial hardship may give the obligatory at a reduced rate, but only after obtaining the Chandas permission of the.Khalifatul Masih − − ± 392

Page 393

− Obligatory Chandas Obligatory Chandas are of two type.A brief explanation and rates of various obligatory are as follows: Chandas a) The Main Obligatory Chandas (Subscriptions) Zakat (Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an).− − Fitrana (Initiated by Holy Prophet ).sa ± − Chanda ‘Am, Chanda Wasiyyat, Chanda Jalsa Salana, − ± − − (Started by Promised Messiah and Mahdi ).as − Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya's financial year begins on July 1st and ± ± ends on June 30th of the next year.Zakat − In the Holy Qur’an God has repeatedly urged the believers − to pay for the purification of their souls: Zakat − Ë É¼»A fħ AÌIjÍ Ý¯ pBÄ»A ¾AÌ¿A Ó¯ AÌIjλ BIi Å¿ NÎMA F¿ Ë ‘ ä ê ô Õ ä æ ê æ å æ ä ä ä ê ì ê ä æ ä æ ê Ø æ ä å æ ä éê í éê æ éê æ å æä Ð ä ä ÆÌ°¨zÀ»A ÁÇ ¹ »ËB¯ ɼ»A ÉUË ÆËfÍjM ÑÌ·k Å¿ NÎMA F¿ , s ‘ ä æ å ê æ å æ å å ä Ó ê ê å ä ê Õ ä æ ä ä æ å æ ê å î Ð ä æ éê æ å æä Ð ä wa ma ataitummirriballi yarbu wa fi amwalinnasi fala yarbu − − − − − − − ‘indallah wa ma ataitummin zakatin turiduna wajhallahi fa − − − − − − − ’ula’ika humul mud‘ifun − ± − Whatever you pay as interest that it may increase the wealth of the people, it does not increase in the sight of Allah; but whatever you give in − Zakat seeking the favor of Allah -- it is these who will increase their − − wealth manifold.(30:40) Those who have capital in the form of cash, jewelry, 393

Page 394

− bullion, etc.which stays with them for one full year are required to pay at the rate of one fortieth (1/40 ) of the value of the Zakat th − goods.are different from Ahmadis paying Jama'at Chandas Zakat.− − ± − Chanda ‘Am Chanda Wasiyyat or (Will Subscription) are not − ± exempt from payment of.They are also required to pay Zakat Zakat − − according to the prescribed rates.Zakat is payable on the following: − 1.Silver, gold, household animals (camels, cows, goats, lambs, etc.), all the valuable commodities such as dates, grapes, etc.2.In the , there is a limit fixed for all the goods on Shari‘ah − which is to be paid.When the quantity of the goods Zakat − becomes equal or more than the fixed limit then payment of Zakat on those goods becomes compulsory.The limit at − which the payment of becomes compulsory is called Zakat − "Nisab".± − Zakat 3.On grains, payment of becomes compulsory only − when the crops are ready and have been harvested by the owner.However, on the rest of the commodities payment of Zakat becomes compulsory when the goods have been with − its owner for one year.On grains, only one time has Zakat − to be paid even if the grains have been with the owner for more than one year.However, on the rest of the items on which is payable, is to be paid every year when Zakat Zakat − − the quantity of the items reaches the fixed amount in the Shari‘ah, Nisab.i.e., the − ± − 4.The for the grains is 781 Kilograms and 870 grams.Nisab ± − If the quantity of the grains one owns is less than this fixed amount ( ), then one does not have to pay.If the Nisab Zakat ± − − grains have been produced without spending money towards purchase or production of water for irrigation then one has to pay 1/10 of the as ; if water has th Nisab Zakat ± − − 394

Page 395

− been purchased or produced to grow the grains then one has to pay 1/20 of the as.th Nisab Zakat ± − − 5.for silver and silver jewelry is 612 grams and 351 Nisab ± − milligrams and the rate of is 1/40 of the.Zakat th Nisab − ± − 6.The and the rate of payment of for gold and Nisab Zakat ± − − gold jewelry is also the same as mentioned above for silver and silver jewelry.The payment of on both gold and Zakat − silver jewelry will be based on the weight of the jewelry and not on the total cost of the jewelry, which includes the cost of making the jewelry.7.The gold and silver jewelry, which are frequently used (Worn) and given to the poor on loan, there is no Zakat − payment on such jewelry.Some Muslim Jurists have stated the for gold to be 97 grams and 200 milligrams.Nisab ± − However, this is not the gold It is the amount of gold Nisab.± − jewelry, which is exempt from due to frequent use of Zakat − the jewelry.8.The for currency, whether it is silver currency, any Nisab ± − other metal currency, or paper currency, is like that of silver.Thus, if any one has currency (Dollars, Pounds or any other currency, which is equivalent to the price of 612 grams and 351 milligrams silver, then such a person has to pay 1/40 of the currency or 2.5% as th Zakat.− 9.The for camels is five camels; for cows/bulls the Nisab ± − Nisab is three cows/bulls; and for goats, sheep, and lambs ± − the is forty heads.If someone has less than five Nisab ± − camels, three cows/bulls or forty heads of goats, sheep or lambs, then payment is not obligatory.Zakat − 10.If the farmer has rented the farmland, then payment of Zakat − on the produce is his responsibility.However, if the farmer 395

Page 396

− is sharing the produce with the landowner, then both the owner of the land and the farmer jointly have to pay the Zakat Zakat on the produce, and after payment of , the − − produce will be divided between the landowner and the farmer.(Dini Syllabus for the Training of 'Nou Muba‘in', (in Urdu), − − − − − Nazarat Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, pp 35-36) ± − − Fitrana ± − Fitrana Ramadan is paid during the month of and should be ± − ± − paid before.The Holy Prophet has made it compulsory on ‘Id sa − those who can afford to give one of flour (Two and a half "sa" − Kilos of flour), which is to be distributed among the poor.Presently, an equivalent in cash is paid.It must be paid for every member of the household, including new born babies and servants.The current suggested rate is $5 per person.is spent on the Fitrana ± − poor and needy so that they, too, can join in the festivities of ‘Id.− Chanda ‘Am (Regular Subscription) − Chanda ‘Am is a regular subscription to be paid by every − earning member, male or female, according to the principles laid down by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi or his successors.This as − basic donation was established by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi himself and is compulsory for every earning member of the as − Ahmadiyya community.The payment rate is 1/16 of one's th ± income from all sources, after payment of taxes and compulsory insurance.However, the rate of may be reduced with Chanda Am ‘ − the approval of the under certain circumstances.Khalifatul Masih − − ± The year starts on July 1 and ends on June 30 of Chanda ‘Am st th − the next year.396

Page 397

− Chanda Wasiyyat and the Nizam-i-Wasiyyat (The ± ± − ± Will System) Chanda Wasiyyat is the contribution made by the one who ± makes a 'Will' and becomes a (Testator), in the (Wasiyyat) Musi ± − ± − terms of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi's book at as Al-Wasiyyat, − ± the rate ranging between 1/10 to 1/3 of the total income from th rd salary/remuneration/business, etc.However, only will Chanda ‘Am − be payable by a on his income from bequeathed immovable Musi − ± − property.The rate of can in no case be reduced to Chanda Wasiyyat ± less than 1/10 of the total income.is the making th Musi's Wasiyyat − ± − ± of a Will, in the favor of the Community, pledging 1/10 to 1/3 th rd of one's total assets (Movable or immovable) to the at the Jama'at − time of one's death.A person who has pledged is known Wasiyyat ± as He or she must donate 1/10 to 1/3 of his earnings Musi.th rd − ± − yearly instead of.This scheme was set up by the Chanda ‘Am − Promised Messiah and Mahdi under Divine revelation.This is a as − voluntary pledge and carries other conditions with it.Legacies of deceased according to his or her 'Will' will go to the Musi Wasiyyat − ± − ± Fund.Like , the year also starts on Chanda ‘Am Chanda Wasiyyat − ± July 1 and ends on June 30 of the next year.st th Ni am-i-Wasiyyat z ± − ± The Promised Messiah and Mahdi wrote on December 20.as − 1905 about the : Nizam-i-Wasiyyat ± − ± "God has told me about the time of my demise.Speaking to me in regard to my life span, He said that very few days were left.Also, He said that after all occurrences and wonders had been shown, shall come the time of my death.The implication is that the coming of certain tribulations for this world had to be before the time of my death, and some wonderful things should come to pass, 397

Page 398

− so that the world should grow into a frame of mind fit for accepting a revolution, and that my death should follow these things.And a place has been shown to me that this would be my grave.I saw an angel measuring a plot of land, and reaching a point he said to me that was the spot for my grave.Then at one place, I was shown a grave more shining than silver, and all its earth was of silver.Then it was said to me that this was my grave.And I was shown a spot which was named (Heavenly Graveyard)...."Bahishti Maqbarah" −....In regard to this graveyard, glad tidings of great immensity have been conveyed to me; not only has He said that this indeed shall be a graveyard in Heaven itself, but He also said: ÒÀYi ½· BÈί ¾lÃA î ä æ ä í å ä æ ê ä ê æå unzila fiha kullu rahmatin − − ± i.e.blessings of all kinds have been sent down on it, and there is no blessing of which those buried therein will not partake.Therefore, with a subtle and delicate revelation, God has turned my mind in the direction that conditions should be imposed on burial here as would ensure that only those shall gain admission, who from the sincerity and truthful purity of their hearts really fulfill all the conditions requisite for the purpose.These conditions are three, all equally binding: 1.The present plot of land for this Cemetery, I have donated as a contribution from myself; but to complete the plan in this behalf some more land shall be purchased of which the price shall be about 1,000 Rupees; and trees and shrubs shall be planted to beautify it, and there shall be a well for irrigation.....So the first condition is that whosoever desires to find burial in it, according to his means he shall contribute towards the fund for meeting these expenses.And contributions for this purpose is being invited from them 398

Page 399

− alone who desire to be buried in this Cemetery, not from others.For the present, these contributions should come to our respected brother, Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin.But, God ± − − − − Willing, this Cemetery and its affairs shall last after we have all passed away.In that case there should be an Anjuman (Association) to administer the funds received in this behalf and to expend them properly on proclaiming to the world the message of Islam, and in propagating belief in − the Unity of God.2.The second condition is that, out of all the Ahmadiyya ± Community, only he shall be eligible for burial in it who leaves a 'Will' and testament in his life that following his death one tenth of all property left by him shall go into this fund, to be spent for the two purposes mentioned above.And everyone endowed with strength and fullness of faith shall be free to donate more should he desire to do so.But, the willed portion shall in no case be less than one tenth.Funds so collected shall be entrusted to an Anjuman consisting of honest people of learning, who by mutual consultation will spend these funds on the propagation of Islam, on spreading knowledge of the Holy Qur’an and − − other religious scriptures, and on preachers appointed to administer to the spiritual needs of the Movement and Mankind in general.And Allah has promised that He shall − make this movement thrive fully.There is therefore confident hope that the requisite funds shall be forthcoming in any case.In addition, everything necessary in the interests of the propagation of Islam, of which a detailed − account at this stage would be premature, all those affairs shall be conducted with these funds.And when one party that shouldered this responsibility shall have passed away, the same shall be the duty of those who would succeed them, namely, that they transact all this business in accordance with the instructions of the.Ahmadiyya Jama'at ± − In these funds there shall also be a share for the orphans, the 399

Page 400

− needy, and the new converts who may not have adequate means of livelihood while they are members of the Movement.And it shall be permissible that the funds should be strengthened by investing them in some profitable enterprise.Do not think that this is only an idle talk about things still in the remote future.This is the resolute purpose and Will of the All-Powerful Allah Who is Master of the earth and the − Heavens.I have no idea how and where from these funds shall come and how a community of people shall come, who in their zeal for their Faith shall accomplish all these heroic things.To speak the truth, my anxiety rather lies on the score that after us the people may not stumble who shall come to be entrusted with the care of this wealth, and lest they should take to the love of this world.So I offer a prayer that the Movement may remain always blessed with honest people who shall labor only for the sake of their love of God.Of course such of them as might happen not to have means of sustenance of their own, it would be lawful for them to receive something by way of aid in expenses.3.The third condition is that he who aspires burial in this Cemetery shall be one who went through life with care, who kept away from what is forbidden, did not commit Shirk (Setting up of equals with Allah), nor any harmful − innovation, and he shall be a simple and straightforward Muslim.A righteous person who possesses no property, so that he cannot render any financial help to the Movement, if it can be shown that he lived a life devoted to the cause of Islam, and was a good man, he shall be − eligible for burial in this Cemetery." (The Will pp 34-44) 400

Page 401

− Chanda Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention Subscription) − − Chanda Jalsa Salana is the contribution for the Annual Gathering at − − the (Center) paid at the rate of 1/120 of one's annual income Markaz th from all sources of an earning member, male or female, once a year.This donation is compulsory and is used exclusively for the expenses of the Annual Convention held at the National level.year Chanda Jalsa Salana − − starts on July 1 and ends on June 30 of the next year.This also st th Chanda was initiated by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) − − In 1891, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi laid foundation as − of the system in the.The first was Jalsa Salana Jama at Jalsa Salana ‘ − − − − − held in 1891 at in Qadian.In this only 75 Masjid Aqsa Jalsa ± − members participated.The second was held on Jalsa Salana − − December 27, 1892 and the total attendance of this convention was around 500.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi said about the first as − Jalsa Salana: − − "All friends should make it a point to reach on this date for the sake of God to listen to His words and to participate in prayer.Such truths and words of wisdom shall be heard as are essential for the increase of faith, conviction, and knowledge.Such friends will also be entitled to special prayers and special attention.Efforts will be made before the most Merciful Lord that He may draw them towards Himself and accept them and grant them a change for the better.A secondary advantage of such gathering will be that every year when they come to Qadian on the appointed dates, they will see and meet newcomers into the fold and this personal acquaintance will continually develop into close friendship and love....And effort will be made through prayers to create a bond of spiritual union between all and remove every barrier of estrangement, aloofness and difference." 401

Page 402

− It was during the first that the objectives of this Jalsa Salana − − gathering were defined which among others were: 1.To Propagate Islam.− 2.To think out ways and means of promoting the welfare of new converts to Islam in Europe and − America.3.To further the cause of righteousness, goodwill, purity, piety and moral excellence throughout the world.4.To eradicate evil habits and customs.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi further said about the as − Jalsa Salana: − − "I should like to repeat that this Convention must not be taken like other ordinary gatherings, for unlike them, it has been based on the succor of God." This became the beginning of a World-wide Jalsa Salana − − system of holding every year.Today, these Jalsa Salana Jalsa − − Salanas Jalsa Salana are held all over the world.The held at a place − − − − where the resides becomes an international as Khalifah Jalsa Salana − − − Ahmadis from all over the world come to attend that.In Jalsa ± − Pakistan, the first Annual Convention was held in (Jalsa Salana) − − Lahore on December 27-28, 1947.In Rabwah, the first Jalsa Salana − − was held on April 15-17, 1949.In the last held at Jalsa Salana − − Rabwah Pakistan in 1984, more than 250,000 Ahmadis and ± − non-Ahmadi guests participated.± − These are signs of the everlasting success of the institution founded by the very Hand of Allah.The Convention will no doubt − grow to even greater dimensions in the future, and all those who attend will have the good fortune of being the recipients of the following prayer of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi : as − 402

Page 403

− "May God Almighty be with everyone who sets out to attend this gathering which is held for the sake of Allah alone.May − He bestow upon them a great reward and have mercy on them and resolve their difficulties and remove their anxieties and griefs and sorrows, and may He deliver them from every misfortune and open the way of success for their endeavors.May He, on the Day of Judgement, raise them among such of His servants who are recipients of His Grace and Mercy and may He be the Guardian of their dependents in their absence.'O God! Lord of Honor and Beneficence, Merciful Deliverer from trials, do Thou accept all these supplications and bestow Supremacy upon us with Thy bright signs, for Thou possesseth all Power and Strength.'." Amin − − (Review of Religions, Vol.LXXXVI, No.7, July 1991, pp 8-10; The Ahmadiyya Gazette, Canada, June 1991, p 60)) ± b) Some Other Obligatory Chandas (Subscriptions) Tehrik-i-Jadid, Waqf-i-Jadid and Auxiliaries' Chanda, (Started by ± − − − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II ra ) ± ± − − ± Chanda Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Chanda Tehrik-i-Jadid is the contribution for the ± − − propagation of Islam throughout the world.In 1934, Hadrat Musleh − ± ± ± ± Ma‘ud, Khalifatul Masih II introduced a scheme called ra − − − ± Tehrik-i-Jadid (New Scheme), which he described as a stepping ± − − stone to the establishment of New World Order Thus,.Tehrik-i-Jadid Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud is a Divine scheme which ra ± − − ± ± ± − initiated for a special purpose under Divine guidance.This was a revolutionary scheme through which solid foundations for the establishment of Oneness of God and spreading of the religion of Islam throughout the world have been laid down.The scheme is − 403

Page 404

− responsible for the opening of new Missions and construction of mosques throughout the world.This scheme was launched by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II on November 23, 1934, at a very ra ± ± − − ± critical period in the turbulent history of Ahmadiyya.Jama at ‘ ± − There was a storm of opposition brewing against Ahmadiyyat, and ± intrigues and mischief-making of the enemies of the had Jama'at − increased extraordinarily.The were bent upon to annihilate Ahrar ± − Ahmadiyyat and were claiming that they will eliminate ± Ahmadiyyat from the surface of the earth.The movement Ahrar ± ± − was on its height of growth at that time, and some senior officers of the government were also supporting it and were equal partners in the conspiracy.Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra , at the time of announcing the ± ± ± − Tehrik-i-Jadid scheme stated the following: ± − − "The purpose of starting is that funds are Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − made available to the so that it could easily spread the Jama'at − message of Oneness of God and the true religion to the corners of the earth.Furthermore, the scheme has been initiated so that Jama'at has available to it a number of such persons who are life − devotees and spend their whole life towards spreading the message of Islam.The scheme also has been started to develop that − determination and resolve in the which is the hallmark of Jama at, ‘ − the progressive." Jama'ats − i.Objectives of Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Preaching and education/training are two very important functions.They both are the only objectives vouchsafed in the.presented 19 Tehrik-i-Jadid Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra ± − − ± ± ± ± − demands from the members of the under the Jama at ‘ − scheme of.These demands were covered in Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − three of November 23, 30, and December 7, 1934.Khutbat ± − Later on, these demands were increased to 25 demands in 404

Page 405

− December, 1937 by.The objective Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra ± ± ± ± − of these demands was that the members lead a simple life, cut down even on their meals so that they could donate as much as possible for propagation of Islam outside of the − Indian subcontinent.The suggested rate of is 1/5 Chanda th of one's monthly income once year, which is from 1 st November to October 31 of the next year.st ii.List of Demands of Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − 1.Lead a simple life.2.Participate in spreading the message of Islam − world-wide.3.Dedicate leave periods for the service of.Jama'at − 4.Members to dedicate their lives to serve Islam.− 5.Dedicate during seasonal vacation period for the service of.Jama'at − 6.Offer your children for life-time (Devotion).Waqf 7.Pensioners (Retirees) to offer themselves for service of.Jama'at − 8.Dedicate part of your income and property.9.Influential and learned Ahmadis should give ± − lectures.10.Prepare rebuttal of adverse propaganda.11.Deposit your surplus money in Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Amanat Fund.− 12.to establish a permanent reserve Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − fund.13.Send your children to for education and Markaz Tarbiyyat.14.Seek advice from the when deciding about Jama'at − higher education and future of your children.15.Develop the habit of working with your own hands (Instead of depending on others).16.The unemployed, if possible, may proceed abroad.There they can make a living and also spread the 405

Page 406

− message of Islam and Ahmadiyyat.− ± 17.Jobless persons should not hesitate to take up evenpetty jobs.18.Promote Islamic culture.− 19.Promote honesty in the society.20.Keep the paths clean.21.Protect women's rights.22.Make associations like.'Hilful Fudul' ± ± − 23.Establish Ahmadiyya and obey its Darul Qada ± − ± − decisions.24.Offer special prayers in order to succeed in these undertakings.25.If possible members may build houses in the Markaz.(Tehrik-i-Jadid, An Introduction, Jama'at Ahmadiyya, USA, 1998) ± − − − ± Hadrat Musleh Ma ud Tehrik-i-Jadid ‘ ra said about : ± ± ± ± − ± − − "All demands of have been introduced for the reason Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − that you could become a manifestation of Allah's attributes.No man can − ever deceive a wise person, then how do you consider that you would be able to deceive God, Knower of the secrets of the hearts.That was the feeling in my mind when I launched this project of." Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − (Daily Al-Fadl, Vol.25, No.283) ± iii.Permanent Waqf On December 17, 1937, Hadrat Musleh Ma ud ‘ ra ± ± ± ± − announced the scheme of permanent (Lifetime Waqf Devotion).expressed his desire to Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra ± ± ± ± − have 100 devotees ready for the service of Islam, who not − only would get education in religion but also in worldly affairs.406

Page 407

− iv.Foreign Missions under Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − In February 1945, handed Hadrat Musleh Ma‘ud ra ± ± ± ± − over the responsibility of all foreign missions to Tehrik-i-Jadid.At the end of World War II, sixteen ± − − missionaries were sent to various countries.Included in them were nine missionaries who were sent to London Mission for a short training and then were assigned to various European countries.They became the pioneer missionaries for the introduction of Islam through Europe.− This scheme was the forerunner of opening of new Missions and construction of new mosques throughout the world.Missionaries are appointed by to Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − propagate the truth about Islam by preaching, publishing − literature and such other lawful means as may be deemed appropriate.A missionary may be Central or Local.The Central missionaries are subject to the rules and regulations of the Department of the Vakalat-i-Tabshir Tehrik-i-Jadid, − − ± − − while the Local Missionaries work in Pakistan and are under The following is a brief Sadr Anjuman-i-Ahmadiyya.± ± history of establishment of various Ahmadiyya missions ± outside the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent: - In the first foreign mission was established in 1913, England under the supervision of Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Siyal.± - In , first mission was established in Ceylon and 1915 Mauritius.In , a religious newspaper, ' 1960 The Message', was started in Mauritius.- In , the first mission was opened in the United 1920 States of America.- In the first missionary was sent to the West 1921, African countries.Missions were opened in Ghana, 407

Page 408

− Nigeria, Sierra Leone.- In , the foundation of the in 1924 Fadl Mosque ± London was laid by Khalifatul Masih II , himself.ra − − ± - In , the first mission was set up in Indonesia.1925 - In , a mission was established in Haifa, 1928 Palestine (Israel).- In , missions were opened in Kenya, Tanzania, 1934 Uganda and Burma.- In , a mission was established in Japan.1935 However, the mission in Japan had to be closed at the outbreak of the second World War.It was re-established in 1969.- 1935-38 In the period , missions were opened in many East European countries such as Poland, Hungary, Yugoslavia and Albania.At the outbreak of the second World War, these missions had to be closed.After the war, these countries came under Communist rule, and the missions, therefore, could not be revived for many years.However, the missions were re-opened later on.- 1935, In missions were established in Burma and Singapore.- In , the mission in Spain was established.The 1936 Mission was closed in and re-established in 1937 1946.- In a mission was opened in France, but was 1946, closed down after a few years.The mission was re-established in.1982 - In , missions were opened in Switzerland, 1946 South Africa and Aden.- 1947 In , the first mission was established in Holland, and the first mosque was built in.1963 - In , the first mission was established in 1947 Malaysia.- 1949 In , a mission was established in Hamburg, Germany and a mosque was built there in.A 1957 408

Page 409

− second mosque was built in Frankfurt in 1959.- In the first South American mission was 1952, opened in Trinidad.Mission was also established in Tobago.- In , mission were opened in Sweden, Suriname 1956 and in Liberia.- In , the first mission was established in the 1957 Philippines.- 1958 In , the first mission in Norway was established.- In , missions were established in Guyana, 1960 Togo, Ivory Coast and Fiji Islands.- 1961, In the first mission was opened in Copenhagen, Denmark.A mission was also established in The Gambia.- In 1 , the Mission in Canada was established.968 - In , the Mission in Zambia was established.1971 - In , the Mission in Niger was established.1976 - In , missions were established in Belgium, 1981 Benin and Comoros.- In , Missions were established in Zimbabwe 1982 and Mali.- In , Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV visited 1983 aba ± ± − − Australia and laid foundation of a mosque in Australia.The first Missionary, Mr.Shakeel Munir arrived In Australia on.However, it July 5, 1985 was in , Hadrat Musa Khan wrote a letter to 1903 ± ± − − Hadrat Promised Messiah and Mahdi to take as ± ± − initiation and thus, became the first Ahmadi in ± − Australia.The same year, missions were established in Burkina Faso, Mauritania Zambia and Guinea Bissau.- In , the Mission in Republic of Congo (Zaire) 1984 was established.- In , missions were established in Brazil, 1985 Thailand, Malawi, Rwanda, Brundi and Tuvalu.- In , missions were established in New Zealand, 1986 409

Page 410

− Ireland, Kiribati, Nepal, Bhutan and Guinea.The mission in Yugoslavia was re-established in.1986 - In , mission was established in Papua New 1987 Guinea.- In , the mission was established in Portugal 1988 and Tonga.- In , mission was established in Guatemala.1989 - In , mission was re-established in Poland.1991 - In , mission was re-established in Hungary.1993 - In , mission was re-established in Albania.1994 - In , missions were established in Azar Bijan, 2001 Cyprus, Malta and Venezuela.(Source: Abdul Majid Tahir, Additional Vakilut Tabshir, − − London, UK) v.Dafters or Phases of Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − a.First (Phase 1) of began in Dafter Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − 1934 and was closed in 1944.The members who participated in those years were recorded as the Mujahidin of Dafter 1.− − b.began in 1944 and was closed in 1965.Dafter 2 c.was established by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih Dafter 3 ± ± − − ± III in 1965 and was closed in 1985.rh d.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV opened in aba Dafter 4 ± ± − − ± 1985, and all members who start paying Tehrik-i-Jadid Chanda Dafter 4.now are added to ± − − (Tehrik-i-Jadid, An Introduction, Published by Jama'at ± − − − Ahmadiyya, USA, 1998) ± Chanda Waqf-i-Jadid − Waqf-i-Jadid scheme was also initiated by Hadrat − ± ± Khalifatul Masih II , in 1957, primarily to protect the public of ra − − ± 410

Page 411

− Pakistan from Christian Missionaries' efforts to convert them to Christianity, to train villagers as missionaries for the propagation of Islam, and for the religious training of new converts in the Indian − subcontinent.Its work now has been extended to cover Africa and Russia.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II at the time of initiating the ra ± ± − − ± scheme stated: "...Now I would like to exalt the members to a Jama'at − new type of Waqf.I related to you about this scheme briefly in my earlier sermon delivered on July 19, 1957.Although, this scheme has vast scope, yet, at this initial stage I have decided to utilize the services of 10 dedicated teachers or." Waqifin − − (Al-Fadl, Feb.16, 1957) ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih III said: rh ± ± − − ± "...I expressed my sincere desire that if our boys and girls, 15 years or under, would shoulder the entire financial responsibility of scheme, it would be a pleasant display of the Waqf-i-Jadid − esteemed status of our that our children are prepared to Jama'at...− offer such a sacrifice...It would also be an immense blessing for them and will provide an excellent opportunity to prepare them for future tasks in order to win the pleasure of Allah." − (Friday Sermon, November 4, 1966) In 1986, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV extended the aba ± ± − − ± Scheme to the whole world: "Last year I expanded the horizon of and Waqf-i-Jadid − made it 'Global' in nature.By the grace of Allah, the decision has − greatly benefited the More so, it appears that there was a Jama'at.− Divine inspiration which instilled within me this need to internationalize the scheme.This inspiration dictated Waqf-i-Jadid − 411

Page 412

− to me that the time has come to 'Globalize' this scheme." (Friday Sermon, January 2, 1987) He further said: "Do not consider the scheme as an ordinary Waqf-i-Jadid − scheme; indeed, this scheme has a deep and pervasive relationship with the spiritual future of India.Try to have your children participate in this scheme for themselves, as it would have a lasting impact on their future as well." (Friday Sermon, December 25, 1987) The suggested rate is $2 minimum, once a year, from each member of the family.The year is from January 1 Waqf-i- Jadid st − to December 31.st ‘Id Fund − This voluntary donation was started by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi and is to ensure that poor and needy are able to have a joyful as ‘Id.− − The Voluntary Chandas Sadqa (Charity) ± Sadqa is a voluntary donation given by believers for the poor and ± needy.God has commanded Muslims to ward off calamities and privations by helping those who are less fortunate and require assistance.It can be made at any time.A tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding charity is: sa - ÑjÀM μrI Ì» Ë iBÄ»A AÌ´MA î ä æ ä é ê ê ê æ ä ä ä ì å ì ê ittaqunnara wa lau bi shiqqi tamratin − 412

Page 413

− Shield yourselves against the Fire even if it be only with half a date (Given in alms) (Bukhari Kitabuzzakat) − − − − Some Other Voluntary Chandas Mosque Fund: For construction of mosques.For Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA).Satellite Fund: ± For helping the needy in Africa and India.Africa-India Fund: For the caring of orphans.Darul Yatama Fund: − − Contributions for this special fund.Centenary Jubilee Fund: : The funds that are initiated by as Other Funds Khalifatul Masih − − ± the need arises.In his Friday sermon on February Maryam Marriage Fund: 21, 2003, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV stated that his mother aba ± ± − − ± always helped the poor and the needy.She, particularly, used to help the poor and orphan girls in providing a reasonable dowry at the occasion of their marriages.So, in the memory of his mother and to elevate her spiritual status, Hudur states that he will help ± − those parents who due to poverty can not give a reasonable dowry to their daughters at their wedding.Parents of such girls can write to him.If he can not help them, then the Jama'at will help.God − Almighty has bestowed a lot of money to the Jama'at.− Later on, in the Friday sermon on February 28, 2003, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV stated that in response to the scheme aba ± ± − − ± he announced in the previous Friday sermon to help the poor and orphan girls towards their dowry, the Jama'ats and individuals have − responded wholeheartedly.Various Jama'ats have either sent or − pledged 95,803 Pounds towards the fund.While various individuals have either sent or pledged 13,530 Pounds, as well.Some ladies also have given their jewelry.The committee that was established to run the scheme has proposed the name 'Maryam Marriage Fund' for the scheme, which he has accepted.413

Page 414

− 17 MUSLIM FESTIVALS AND CEREMONIES MUSLIM FESTIVALS: ‘IDUL FITR (FESTIVAL OF RAMADAN) − ± ± − The end of the Holy month of is marked by the festival of Ramadan ± − ‘Idul fitr.This joyous day is celebrated to give thanks for the blessings of − ± Ramadan ‘Id.Muslims attend the congregational Prayer service, which is ± − − held in the morning, and then spend rest of the day exchanging greetings and gifts with family and friends.They wear new clothes, cook delicious food and invite friends and neighbors to celebrate with them.Fasting during inspires sympathy for the hungry and needy, and Ramadan ± − encourages Muslims to donate generously to the poor.‘IDUL ADHIYYA (FESTIVAL OF SACRIFICE) − ± ± This festival comes about ten weeks after , and marks the ‘Idul fitr − ± completion of (Holy Pilgrimage of in Mecca).It is Hajj "Khanah Ka‘bah" ± − the festival of sacrifice commemorating the time when the Prophet Abraham was ready to sacrifice his son, Ishmael --- for the sake of Allah.as − As a result of Abraham's willing obedience, Allah did not permit Ishmael − to be sacrificed, and an animal was substituted instead.It is their obedience to Allah that is celebrated by Muslims the world over.On this − ‘Id, ‘Idul adhiyya, which is called those that can afford it, sacrifice an − − ± ± 414

Page 415

− animal and share the meat among families, neighbors and the poor.(Pathways to Paradise, A Publication of the Lajna Ima’illah, USA, p 63) − − It is stated in the Holy Qur’an: − ¸Ä¿ ÔÌ´N»A É»BÄÍ Å¸»Ë BÇÚF¿e ÜË BÈ¿ÌZ» ɼ»A ¾BÄÍ Å» ‘ æ È å æ ê Ð æ ì å å ä ì æ ê Ð ä ä å ä ê ä ä ä å æ å å ä Õ ä ä ì æ ä lañyyana lallaha luhumuha wa la dima’uha wa lakiñyyanalu − − ± − − − − − − − huttaqwa minkum − Their flesh reaches not Allah, nor does their blood, but it is your − righteousness that reaches Him.(22:38) ‘Idul adhiyya th Dhul Hijjah is celebrated on the 10 of the month of.− ± ± ± Muslims who gather in Mecca for , offer their sacrifices on the Hajj ± occasion of , following the example of Prophet Abraham.‘Idul adhiyya as − ± ± This act of sacrificing animals is repeated by Muslims all over the word.All Muslims, men, women, and children, join in the congregational two Prayer, held in the open, outside a village or town, if possible, Rak‘at − on both and occasions.‘Idul fitr ‘Idul adhiyya − ± − ± ± Early in the morning, on an day, after taking a bath, Muslims, ‘Id − young and old, put on their best clothes.Children, specially, wear new garments.Perfume is worn, as it was the practice of the Holy Prophet to sa wear perfume on such occasions.Special dishes are prepared on days ‘Id − in Muslim homes.On the occasion of , one should pay and ‘Idul fitr Fitrana ‘Id Fund − ± ± − − before the Prayer.One should have a full breakfast before proceeding ‘Id − to the , the place where Prayer is to be offered.On the occasion ‘Idgah ‘Id − − − of , however, Muslims are expected to keep fast until after ‘Idul adhiyya − ± ± the Prayer.It is preferable for those who offer animals for sacrifice that ‘Id − they break their fast with the meals prepared from the meat of those animals.415

Page 416

− As was the practice of the Holy Prophet , Muslims generally go to sa the by one route and return by another route.‘Idgah − − The time of Prayer is before noon.Like Friday Prayer, ‘Id ‘Id − − Prayer is always offered in congregation.No or is called for Adhan Iqamat − − ‘Id Rak‘at ‘Id Takbiri Tahrima Prayers.In the first of Prayer, after reciting − − − ± − and , but before reciting , the raises his hand to Thana Atta‘awwudh Imam − − his earlobes seven times saying each time in a loud voice and Allahu akbar − then drops his arms to his side each time until after the seventh Takbir − when he folds his arms in the normal fashion and proceeds with the Prayer.The followers also raise their hands to their earlobes saying Allahu − akbar but in an inaudible voice and then leave their hands hanging to their sides as done by the.In the second there are five , Imam Rak‘at Takbirat − − − i.e., the and the followers raise their hands to their ears five times Imam − saying and then leave them hanging on their sides each time.Allahu akbar − At the end of second after the recitation of , Rak at, Attashshahud ‘ and and some of the prescribed Prayers, the turns his face Durud Imam − − towards the right saying and then turns Assalmu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah ± − his face to the left saying the same, to mark the end of the Prayer.After the Prayer, the delivers a sermon.Like for Friday ‘Id Imam − − Prayer, sermon consists of two parts.It should be noted that the sermon ‘Id − for the Friday Prayer precedes the Prayer, while on the occasion of the ‘Id, − sermon follows the Prayer.After performing the two of and Rak‘at ‘Idul adhiyya ‘Idul fitr − − ± ± − ± Prayers, the and the congregation recite the following words of Imam − glorification of God in an audible voice: Ë jJ· A ɼ»A jJ· A ɼ»A Ë É¼»A ÜA É»A Ü jJ· A ɼ» A jJ· A ɼ» A ( ( ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä æ ä æ ä å Õ ä fÀZ»A ɼ» å æ ä æ ê Õ ê allahu akbar, allahu akbar, la ilaha illallahu wallahu akbar − − − − − − allahu akbar wa lillahil hamd − − ± 416

Page 417

− Allah is the Greatest; Allah is the Greatest.There is none worthy of − − worship except Allah; Allah is the Greatest and all Praise belongs to Him − − (Kitabus-Salat, Writer: Ibni Abi Shaibah) − ± ± − − Similarly, from the time of Prayer on the 9 till Fajr th Dhul Hijjah ± the time of the 13 of , loud recitations of the above ‘Asr th Dhul Hijjah ± ± verses are made after each congregational Prayer service.Fard ± (Mustadrik Hakim, Vol 1, p 299, Published in Bairut) ± − To recite the above mentioned verses while going to the and ‘Idgah − − while coming back, is to follow the practice of the Holy Prophet.sa MUSLIM CEREMONIES: MARRIAGE Marriage is a sacred institution in Islam.The family is the basic − unit of human society.The foundation of a family is laid through marriage.One of the principal consideration to be kept in mind in the choice of a spouse is set out in one of the verses that the Holy Prophet , always recited sa on the occasion of the celebration of a marriage.f¬» O¿f³ B¿ o°Ã j¤ÄN»Ë ɼ»A AÌ´MA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ ô î ä ê æ ä ì ä ì Ñ æ ä æ å æä æ ä ä Õ å ì å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ya ayyuhalladhina amanuttaqullaha waltanzur nafsumma − − − − ± − qaddamat li ghad O ye who believe! fear Allah; and let soul look to what it sends every − forth for the morrow.(59:19) 417

Page 418

− This means that the choice should be determined not only with reference to obvious and immediate considerations, but also with reference to the more lasting consequences of the contemplated union, both in this life and in the next.The Holy Prophet said: sa AjÀ»A Å¿ ½z¯A Õ Ïq BÎÃf»A ªBN¿ Å¿ oλ Ë ªBN¿ BÎÃf»A BÀÃA ä æ ä æ ä ê å ä æä Ñ æ ä ä æ í ê ä ä æ ê ä æ ä ä Ñ ä ä ä æ í ä ì ê - ÒZ»Bv»A Ñ ê ä ê ì ê innamaddunya mata‘un wa laisa min mata‘iddunya shai’un − − − − afdalu minalmar’a tiss alihati ± ± ± − ± "Surely, the world is but a provision and none of the provisions of the world is better than a pious wife." (Ibn Majah Abwabunnikah) − − − ± BÈÄÍf» Ë BÈ»BÀV» Ë BÈJnZ» Ë BÈ»BÀ» ©Ii Ü ÑAjÀ»A \¸ÄM ( ä ê æ ê ê ä ä ê ä ä ê ä ä ê ä ä ê ä ä ê ä ê î ä æ ê ä å ä æ ä æ å ä æå - ºAfÍ OIjM ÅÍf»A PAhI j°£B¯ ä ä ä æ ä ê ä ê æ é ê ê ä ê æ å æ ä tunkahul mar atu li arba’in li maliha wa li hasabiha wa li − − − jamaliha wa li diniha fazfur bi dhatiddini taribat yadaka − − − − ± − − − "Women are married for four reasons: For the sake of wealth, for the sake of connections, for the sake of beauty, and for the sake of religion.However, your choice should be determined by Faith or religion as this is the source of lasting happiness." (Bukhari Kitabunnikah) − − − − ± 418

Page 419

− Prohibitions Concerning Marriage Allah has laid down prohibitions concerning marriage, and − other aspects of relations between men and women: 1.According to the Holy Qur’an, a Muslim is not permitted to − marry the following relatives: mother, father, sister, brother, aunts and uncles, nephews and nieces.However, Muslims are permitted to marry cousins.There are still other prohibited marriage relationships.For example, a man cannot marry his stepdaughter if he has cohabited with her biological mother.Nor can he have two sisters in marriage at the same time ( ).See Holy Qur an, 4:23-24 ’ − 2.Islam also makes clear to whom a Muslim is allowed to − marry as far as his/her religion is concerned.Marriage with an idolater is totally forbidden for both sexes ( See Holy Qur an, 2:222 ’ ).However, men are allowed to marry women − of the 'people of the Book' (i.e., those who follow a Revealed Scripture), although it is not considered preferable.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi has limited the category as − of the 'people of the Book' to Jewish and Christian women.He has also prohibited Ahmadi women from marrying ± − non-Ahmadi men.The reasoning behind this is very sound.± − A woman is not permitted to marry outside her faith because when she is in her husband's home environment, she and her children are exposed to non-Muslim and non-Ahmadi culture and practices.This makes it very ± − difficult for her to remain steadfast in her own faith and bring up her children as Muslims.A man, on the other hand can more easily influence his wife and bring her into the Islamic way of life.− 419

Page 420

− 3.Islam does not allow free mixing of grown-up boys and − girls, nor does it allow sex outside marriage.Even preliminary acts of physical love, outside the marriage are prohibited.To remain sexually inactive and chaste before marriage is an extremely important injunction in the Holy Qur an.Adultery, fornication and having secret ’ − relationships with the opposite sex is a heinous moral lapse which is categorically condemned in the strongest terms by Islam.This prohibition includes dating, secret paramours and experimental living together.As these are regarded as heavy sins, they carry severe penalties ( See Holy Qur an, ’ − 24:3-4).The Islamic way of life does not approve mixed − parties of grown-ups.(Pathways to Paradise, Lajna Ima’illah, USA, pp 41, 44-45) − − Nikah (Announcement of Marriage) − ± At marriages, and functions are celebrated.Nikah Walima − ± − Nikah − ± Nikah Sunnah is a of the Holy Prophet.A person who, sa − ± despite having the ability and means to do does not do Nikah, − ± Nikah, he disobeys the clear orders of God Almighty and the Holy − ± Prophet.The Holy Prophet , has very forcefully instructed his sa sa followers to do so.He has said about marriage: - ÓÄ¿ oμ¯ ÓNÄm ŧ K«i ÅÀ¯ ÕFnÄ»A XËlMA Ë æ éê ê ä æ ä ä æ ê ì å æ ä ä ê ä æ ä ä ä ä é ê å ì ä ä ä ä wa ata zawwajunnisa-’a faman raghiba ‘an sunnati fa − − laisaminni − "Marriage is my precept and my practice.Those who do not follow my practice are not of me." 420

Page 421

− (Bukhari Kitabunnikah Bab Targhib Finnikah) − − ± − − − By doing , one develops new relationships, is saved Nikah − ± from various sins and dangerous diseases, and lives a peaceful life.However, if one cannot afford monetarily to do or cannot Nikah − find a partner to marry, then the person is ordered to keep fasts.The Sermon Nikah − ± The following is the Arabic sermon which the Holy Prophet used to deliver on occasion of the solemnization of a sa marriage.This sermon may be followed by another in one's own language.The ceremony is completed by the public declaration by the groom, and the bride's (Father or Guardian), of their Wali − consent of marriage.Éμ§ ½·ÌNÃ Ë ÉI Å¿ÌÃ Ë Êj°¬NnÃ Ë ÉÄΨNnÃ Ë ÊfÀZà ɼ» fÀZ»A ( ( ( ê æ ä ä å ì ä ää ä × ê å ê Ù å ä å ê æ ä æ ä ä å æ ê ä æ ä ä å ä æ ä ê Õ ê å æ ä æä ɼ»A ÊfÈÍ Å¿ BÄ»BÀ§A PBÎm Å¿ Ë BÄn°ÃA iËjq Å¿ ɼ» BI gÌ¨Ã Ë å Õ ê ê æ ì æ ä äê ä æ ä ê Ð éê ä æ ê ä ä ê å æä ê æ å å æ ê ê Õ ê å æ å ä ä ɼ»A ÜA É»A Ü ÆA fÈrÃ Ë É» ÔeBÇ Ý¯ ɼ¼zÍ Å¿Ë É» ½z¿ ݯ ( ( å Õ ì ê ä Ð ê ì æ ä å ä æ ä ä È ä ä ê ä ä ä å æ ê æ í æ ä ä ä ì ê å ä ä f¨I B¿A É»Ìmi Ë ÊfJ§ AfÀZ¿ ÆA fÈrÃ Ë É» ¹Íjq Ü ÊfYË ( ( ( ( å æ ä ì ä È å æ å ä ä å æ ä í ì ä å ì ä å ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä ÁÎY j»A ÅÀY j»A ɼ»A ÁnI.ÁÎUj»A ÅñÎr»A Å¿ ɼ»BI ģB¯ ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ä ê ê Õ ê å æ å ä ä alhamdu lillahi nahmaduhu wa nasta‘inuhu wanastaghfiruhu ± − ± − − − − wa nu’minu bihi wa natawakkalu ‘alaih wa na‘udhu billahi − − − min shururi anfusina wa min sayyiati a‘malina mañyyahdi − − − − − hillahu fala mudilla lahu wa mañyyudlilhu fala hadiya lah wa − − ± − ± − − nash hadu alla ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa nash − − − ± − − − − hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluh amma ba‘du fa ± − − − a‘udhu billahi mi nashshaita nirrajimbismilla hirrama nirrahim − − − − − ± − ± − All praise is due to Allah, we laud Him, we beseech help from Him and − 421

Page 422

− ask His forgiveness.We believe in Him, and we put our trust in Him, and we seek Allah's protection against the evils and mischiefs of our souls − and from the bad results of our deeds.Whomsoever Allah guides on the − right path, none can misguide him, and whomsoever He declares misled, none can guide him to the right path.And we bear witness that none deserves to be worshipped, except Allah.He is Alone, and has no partner.− We bear witness that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.After ± this, I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the rejected, and I begin with − the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − μ¼aË ÑfYAË o°Ã Å¿ ¸´¼a Ôh»A ¸Ii AÌ´MA pBÄ»A BÈÍBÍ ‘ ‘ ä ä ä ì î ä ê ì î æ ì æ éê æ å ä ä ä æ ê ì å å ì ä æ å ì å ì ä í ä ê Ôh»A ɼ»A AÌ´MAË ÕFnÃ Ë AjÎR· ÜBUi BÀÈÄ¿ SIË BÈUËk BÈÄ¿ æ ê ì ä Õ å ì ä í ô ä ê ì í æê ä í ä ê ä å æ ê ì ä ä ä ä æ ä ä æ ê BJγi ¸Î¼§ ÆB· ɼ»A ÆA BYiÜAË ÉI ÆÌ» ÕFnM , ‘ ’ í æ ê ä æ å æ ä ä ä ä ä Õ ì ê ä È ä æ æ ä ä × ê ä æ å ä ä ä ya ayyuhannasuttaqu rabbaku mulladhi khalaka − − − − kumminnafsiñwwahida tiñwwa khalaqa minha zaujaha wa − ± − − baththa minhuma rijalan kathirañwwa nisa’ wattaqulla − − − − − halladhi tasa’aluna bihi wal arham innallaha kana ‘alaikum − − − − ± − − − raqiba − O Ye people! fear your Lord, Who created you from a single being and created therefrom its mate, and from the two spread many men and women; and fear Allah, in Whose name you appeal to one another, and − fear Him particularly respecting ties of relationship.Verily, Allah − watches over you.(4:2) AÌ´MAË f¬» O¿f³ B¿ o°Ã j¤ÄN»Ë ɼ»A AÌ´MA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ å ì ä î È ä ê æ ä ì ä ì Ñ æ ä æ å æä æ ä ä Õ å ì å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÆÌ¼À¨M BÀI jÎJa ɼ»A ÆA ɼ»A , ä æ å ä æ ä ä ê Ñ ë æê ä ä Õ ì ê ä È Õ ya ayyu halladhina amanutta qullaha waltanzur nafsumma − − − − ± − qaddamat li ghad wattaqullah innallaha khabirum bima − − − − ta‘malun − 422

Page 423

− O ye who believe! fear Allah; and let soul look to what it sends every − forth for the morrow.And fear Allah; verily Allah is Well-Aware of what − − you do.(59:19).¸» \¼vÍ AfÍfm Ü̳ AÌ»Ì³Ë É¼»A AÌ´MA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ ‘ , æ å ä æ ê æ í ö í æ ê ä í æ ä æ å æ å ä ä Õ å ì å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê f´¯ É»Ìmi Ë É¼»A ©ñÍ Å¿Ë ¸IÌÃg ¸»j°¬Í Ë ¸»BÀ§A ( ‘ ‘ ‘ æ ä ä ä æ å ä ä ä Õ ê ê í æ ä ä æ È å ä æ å å æ å ä æ ê æ ä ä æ å ä ä æ ä BÀΤ§ Ak̯ kB¯ , í æ ê ä í æ ä ä ä ya ayyu halladhina amanuttaqullaha wa qulu qaulan − − − − − − sadidañyyu lih lakum a‘amalakum wa yaghfirlakum dhunu s − ± ± − − bakum wa mañyyuti ‘illaha wa rasulahu faqad faza fauzan ± − − − − ‘azima ± − O ye who believe! fear Allah, and say the right word.reform your He will − conduct for you and forgive you your sins.And whoso obeys Allah and − His Messenger, shall surely attain a mighty success.(33:71-72) (Musnadul Imamul A‘zam Kitabunnikah, Timidhi and ibni Majah Kitabunnikah ) − ± − − ± − − − − Some of the requirements which should be met before Nikah is performed: − ± 1.Both the man and the woman whose is to be Nikah − ± performed should be asked whether they agree to marry each other or not.If any one of the two refuses to marry the other, then cannot be performed.Nikah − ± 2.For the woman, her near relation such as her father or brother must agree to the because, the had Nikah, Shari‘ah − ± − made it compulsory that the woman has a guardian.Thus, in Islamic a woman cannot marry someone till her Shari‘ah, − − guardian does not give her permission to do so.423

Page 424

− Ü ¾B³ ÓJÄ»A ŧ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÓmÌ¿ ÓIA ŧ D ä ä ä é ê ê ì ê ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä Ð æ å æ ê ä æ ä Ó»ÌI ÜA `B¸Ã é î ê ä ê ì ê ä ä ê ‘an abi musa ‘aninnabiyyi qala la nikaha illa bi ra sa − − − − − ± − waliyyin Abu Musa reports: The Prophet said: 'No marriage is (Legal) ra sa − − without the (Permission of the) guardian.' (Ibn Majah) − 3.(The money the husband either gives or promises Haq Mehr ± to give to his wife) must be fixed.Without fixing Haq ± Mehr, Nikah Shari‘ah cannot take place.has not fixed any − ± − limit for the.Man can fix any amount as Haq Mehr Haq ± ± Mehr according to his monetary status and the amount must be agreed upon by both parties.Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II has stated that if someone asks ra ± ± − − ± him how much should be? He will suggest that Haq Mehr ± the should range from 6 months to a year's salary Haq Mehr ± of the bridegroom.(Al-Fadl, December 12, 1940) ± 4.The must be announced in the presence of as many Nikah − ± people as possible.performed secretly is invalid in Nikah − ± the eyes of the.is established by the offer Shari‘ah Nikah − − ± and acceptance of the marriage proposal.The offer and acceptance must be in the same gathering and must be widely publicized.The following is a brief explanation of the requirements as stated in the : Fiqh Ahmadiyya ± A.Offer and acceptance means that one of the parties proposes marriage in accordance with specified 424

Page 425

− terms and the other party accepts it.In the marriage contract the offer is from the side of the woman and acceptance from the man.But this is not essential.Either side may initiate the offer; it will be considered valid acceptance.If a single person is acting as the Guardian and Legal Representative from both sides, he may announce both the offer and the acceptance.There are no specified words to express the offer and acceptance.Whatever the words, they must be clear and unambiguous.They should clearly indicate the agreement of both parties to the marital bond and should not be susceptible to any other interpretation.B.The offer and acceptance can be in person or through a representative.It is not necessary that the woman should appear in person.Her representative can express her consent.This is indeed a preferred way.If the man is not present in the gathering, his agreement can be expressed by his representative.However, in such a case, authentic and reliable documentation must be submitted indicating his agreement.Furthermore, there must be available firm proof of his appointment of the representative.C.Announcement of the is an essential Nikah − ± requirement.should be announced in a Nikah − ± manner that it becomes generally known.The Holy Prophet has commanded that the publicity be sa given to.The words of the are: Nikah Hadith − ± ± − 425

Page 426

− ÌIjyAË fUBnÀ»AÓ¯ Ê̼¨UAË `B¸Ä»AAhÇ AÌļ§A æå ê æ ä ê ê ä ä æ ê å æ å ä æ ä ä ä ê é ä Ð æ å ê æ ä _ ²f»BI Éμ§ é ê ì ê ê æ ä ä a‘linu hadhannikaha waj‘aluhu fil masajidi − − − ± − − wadribu ‘alaihi biddaffi ± − Announce the , perform it in the mosques, play Nikah − ± upon (A musical instrument) to make it widely Duff known.(Tirmidhi Kitabun Nikah Bab I'lannunnikah wa Ibni Majah , p − − − ± − − − − 136/1) D.Secret is undesirable, even if the witnesses Nikah − ± are present.The Holy Prophet has said about sa secret : Nikah − ± ÓMÝ»A BÍB¬J»A eÌÈrI ÜA `B¸Ã Ü.ÒÄÎJI ÜA `B¸Ã Ü æ êì ä ä ä æä î æ å ä ê ì ê ä ä ê ä î ä é ê äê ì ê ä ä ê ä ÒÄÎI jάI ÅÈn°ÃA ÅZ¸ÄÍ î ä é êä ê æ ä ê ì å ä å æä ä æ ê æä la nikaha illa bi bayyinatin la nikaha illa bi − − ± − − − ± − shahudin albaghayallati yankihna anfusa hunna − − − − ± bi ghairi bayyinatin.There is no except if it is widely known and the Nikah − ± witnesses are present.Women who marry themselves without satisfying the rule of wide knowledge as required by , are of evil character Shari ah ‘.− (Tirmidhi Kitabun Nikah Bab 'la nikah illa bi bayyinatin' − − − ± − − − ± − p.130/1; Article 7 of Fiqh Ahmadiyya Relating to the Conduct ± of a Nikah, The Ahmadiyya Gazette, June 2000, p 18) − ± ± 426

Page 427

− Nikah The marriage ceremony ( ) is performed by a lawful Islamic − − authority, perhaps a missionary or the President of the The Jama'at.− procedure of the religious ceremony itself is simple.Once the forms Nikah − are filled out and signed by the authorized persons as directed in the Nikah − form, and the is publicly announced and witnessed, the contract is Nikah − legal.The person officiating recites the sermon which was recited Nikah − by the Holy Prophet and asks for the consent of both parties.This is sa followed by prayer.Couples must get a legal marriage license and whatever else is required by the law of the land.In some US states, the law requires that the person performing the Nikah must be civilly licensed.If so qualified his − solemnizing of the rituals is sufficient to legalize the marriage.If he is not licensed, the couple must precede their religion ceremony with civil ceremony, usually performed by the City Hall.The guardian of the bride should ensure that these steps are followed so that the bride's rights as a wife are legally and civilly protected.Walima − After the marriage has been solemnized, the bridegroom gives a reception which is called To give a reception Walima.− (Walima) Sunnah is a of the Holy Prophet , and it is required that sa − the poor and orphans are also invited to the reception.As far as the reception feasts and other related expressions of joy are concerned, the rich are very firmly warned that any feast to which the poor have not been invited is cursed in the sight of God.Thus, amongst the most well dressed richest members of the society, one finds the most poorly dressed poor people mixing freely with the rich.427

Page 428

− Divorce Divorce is allowed in Islam, but is regarded as one of the − most displeasing act of all the lawful acts in the sight of Allah.The − tradition of the Holy Prophet regarding divorce is: sa - ¶Ýñ»A ½U Ë l§ ɼ»A Ó»A ¾ÝZ»A |¬IA å ä ì ì ä ä ì ä ê Õ ä ê ê ä ä æ å ä æ ä abghadul halali ilallahi ’azza wa jallattalaqu ± ± − − ±± − Divorce is least desirable of all the lawful acts (Abu Da’ud Kitabunnikah wa Ibni Majah) − − − − − ± − Therefore, the divorce procedure is so designed to allow every chance of conciliation.Under Islamic law, divorce must be − pronounced three times, with an interval of a month between each pronouncement.During this time, the wife stays in the family home (Unless she has committed adultery), and reconciliation is encouraged.If the divorce does become final, the husband is instructed to "send her away in kindness." He is financially responsible for his children until they come of age, and is responsible for his wife for a period ( ) after the divorce.‘Iddat Divorce may be initiated by either husband or wife.If the husband seeks the divorce, it is called and he may not ask the return 'Talaq' ± − of any gifts he made to the wife.If the wife wants the divorce, it is called , and she should return her dower.If the husband does Khul‘a not divorce, then the woman can apply to the court that she may be separated from her husband.Both divorced men and women are permitted to remarry (Other mates).The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes: as − "The law of Islam has not left the matter of divorce entirely in the − hands of the husband, but has also authorized the wife to obtain divorce 428

Page 429

− through the court.Such divorce is designated in Islamic jurisprudence as − Khul‘a.In case a husband should ill treat his wife, or should no longer be capable of discharging his obligations towards her, or should change his religion, or it should become difficult for the wife to continue to live with him on account of some incompatibility, she or her guardian can have recourse to the judge for dissolution of the marriage.In such case the judge should call upon the husband to show cause why the marriage should not be dissolved, and if he finds that the wife's complaint is justified he would decree dissolution of the marriage.As in the case of marriage the Islamic law requires the consent of not only the wife but also − that of her guardian, namely her father, or brother, or other near male relative, so also it does not approve of a wife departing from her husband of her own free will.It is obligatory upon her to have recourse to the judge for that purpose so that she should not come to harm on account of her lack of understanding." (Chashma’i Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol.23, pp.276-291) − − − − POLYGAMY This is a subject that generates more misconceptions about Islam − than any other subject.Islam does allow polygamy, i.e., having more than − one wife at the same time.However, it does not encourage it.Islam also − makes it obligatory for Muslims to obey the laws of marriage of the country they reside in.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about the permission of as − polygamy in Islam: − "Some critics object that polygamy involves intemperance and that monogamy is the ideal system.This amounts to unwarranted interference in other people's affairs.It is well known that Islam permits marriage with − as many as four women at the same time, but there is no compulsion.All men and women are aware of this.It is permissible for a woman at the time of her marriage to obtain an assurance from her husband that he would not marry another wife during the currency of the marriage, in which case the husband would be bound to give effect to the assurance and is content with the law as it is, it does not behove any one else to raise an 429

Page 430

− objection.Every sensible person can understand that plurality of wives is not obligatory in Islam, but is permissible.If a husband desires, for some valid − reason to take advantage of this permission, and his wife is not happy over it, she can ask for divorce, and need not reconcile herself to the situation proposed by the husband.If a woman receives an offer of marriage from a man who is already married it is open to her to decline the offer.But if the both women are agreeable to the husband's proposal, no one else has the right to intervene in the matter.God Almighty having permitted plurality of wives in case of valid need and the women concerned being agreeable to the proposed situation, no one has any business to interfere.This is a matter of human rights.It effects both the first wife and the second wife.If the first wife is not agreeable and feels that her rights as a wife will be placed in jeopardy by the second marriage of her husband, she can seek deliverance from the situation by demanding a divorce, and should the husband be unwilling to comply with her demand she can enforce it through a court.If the proposed second wife is unwilling to face the situation, she need not consent to it.It is idle to object that justice cannot be maintained in such a situation.Nevertheless God Almighty in the Holy Qur an has directed that ’ − a husband who has more wives than one should deal equitably with each, and if he should be apprehensive that he would not be able to do so he should confine himself to only one wife: ÓÃeA ¹»g ¸ÃBÀÍA O¸¼¿ B¿ ËA ÑfYA̯ AÌ»f¨M ÜA N°a ÆB¯ ‘ ‘ Ð Ø æä ä ê Ð È æ å å ä æ ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ä í ä ê ä ä æ å ê æ ä î ä æ å æ ê æ ê ä Ą̻M ÜA , È æ å æ å ä î ä fa in khiftum alla ta‘dilu fa wahidatan au ma malakat − − − − aimanukum dhalika adna alla ta‘ulu − − − − − − And if you fear you will not deal justly, then marry only one or what your right hands possess.That is the nearest way for you to avoid injustice.(4:4) 430

Page 431

− It is mere bigotry to suggest that polygamy is resorted to out of a desire for sexual indulgence.I have known cases in which a person inclined towards such indulgence has been able to safeguard himself against it and against sexual misconduct by recourse to the blessed system of polygamy, and this device helps such a one to lead a virtuous and pious life.Failing this many are carried by the fierce storm of passion to the doors of women of ill fame, and they become afflicted with venereal and other dangerous diseases.They indulge openly and covertly in such evil practices to which those who are happily married to two or three wives never succumb.Such people restrain themselves for a short while and then yield suddenly to the fierce onslaught of their passions like the bursting of a dam, whereby vast areas are flooded and ruined.The truth is everything depends on motive.Those who feel that through a second marriage they would be able to live righteously or that they would be able to procreate righteous progeny should certainly have recourse to this blessed system.In Divine estimation misconduct and evil looks are such heinous sins as destroy all good actions and earn physical torment in this very life.Therefore, if a person marries more women than one with motive of making himself secure in the citadel of righteousness, it is not only permissible for him but becomes a source of spiritual merit." (Chashma’i Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khaza’in,Vol 23, pp.245-248) − − − − ‘AQIQA − Islam requires that when a child is born, in the right ear and Adhan − − Iqamat in the left ear of the child should be recited.Thus, from the very − beginning the child is subconsciously attracted to the Truth and Beauty of the Creator.Furthermore, a pious person should give [first-ever "Ghutti" − − dose of food (crushed dates or honey) to new born infant] to the baby.The child should be given a Muslim name.On being asked about the significance of the called in the Adhan − ear of a newborn baby, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi said: as − "The words which are uttered into the ears of the baby at that time 431

Page 432

− have a great effect on his morals.It is, therefore, a very good practice." (The Badr, 28, 3, 1907) The birth of a child is celebrated by sacrificing an animal and inviting relatives, friends and the poor to a feast called the.‘Aqiqa ‘Aqiqa − − ceremony is usually done on the seventh day of the birth of a child.However, it also can be done on either 14 or day of the birth of the th 21st child.Some scholars say that parents can do of their child till the ‘Aqiqa − time the child becomes an adult.Similarly, the child can do his own ‘Aqiqa when he is an adult.Two goats or lambs are sacrificed for a boy, − and one goat or lamb is sacrificed for a girl.Child's head is also shaved on seventh day of the birth.It is preferred that circumcision in the boys is done on or by 7 day of birth.However, if the circumcision is not done in th the infancy it must be done before the child becomes an adult.(Dini Syllabus for the Training of 'Nou Muba‘in', (in Urdu), Nazarat − − − − − ± − Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, p 38) − AMIN − − When a child finishes the Holy Qur’an for the first time, his − parents celebrate with an The child recites a portion of the Holy "Amin".− − Qur’an in the presence of his or her family members, family friends and − other people present at the occasion.After listening to the recitation of a portion of the Holy Qur’an by the child, the audience joins in prayer for − the child, and sweets are distributed.JAMA‘AT'S VARIOUS OTHER FUNCTIONS − The Ahmadiyya Movement holds many functions, on the national, ± regional, and local level.These are called and.These provide Ijtima‘ Jalsa − great moral and spiritual uplift.They also give members the opportunity to meet old and new friends.432

Page 433

− Some days that are specially celebrated are: Siratun Nabi Day: Celebration of the exemplary − − character of the Holy Prophet sa.Masih Ma‘ud Day: Celebration of the coming of the − ± − Promised Messiah and Mahdi as as − foretold by the Holy Prophet of Islam.The Day is celebrated on sa − March 23rd.Musleh Ma‘ud Day: Celebration of the fulfillment of the ± ± − prophecy of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi concerning birth of a son as − (The Promised Reformer).The Day is celebrated on February 20th.Khilafat Day: To celebrate Allah's mercy in − − providing the blessings of.Khilafat − The Day is celebrated on May 27th.Religious Founders' Day: People of other faiths are invited to talk about their religion and its founder.433

Page 434

− 18 STATUS OF WOMEN IN ISLAM − It is misunderstood that Islam neglects women and does not give − them any rights, or women are considered inferior to men.It is due to a lack of Islamic knowledge.If the Holy Qur’an and sayings of the Holy − − Prophet of Islam are studied, it becomes very clear that it is Islam which sa − − has really elevated the status of women.Before Islam, women were sold as − personal commodities.Female children were buried alive because they were considered as a curse for the family.But it is Islam which gave every − respect and honor to women and brought them at the level of men; otherwise women were mistreated in every sphere of life.In Islam, a − woman enjoys equal status with a man.The object of her creation, her duty to God and her duty to fellow human beings, is the same as that of a man.Islam has not only made women heirs to property, but has given − them equal rights with men, but not in a manner that would disregard the distinctive features of their anatomy and their exclusive responsibilities in the rearing and nursing of children.In the time of the Holy Prophet and his successors, Muslim sa women went to mosques, performed pilgrimage, observed fast and gave charity in the cause of God out of their personal property and income.They accompanied men to the battlefield and provided water and tended the wounded, some even took part in actual combat.All this was done more than fourteen hundred years ago when not a single woman in any part of the world had raised a voice against her plight.Islam has always − provided equal rights and equal opportunities for men and women, as the Holy Qur’an says: − ÅÎNÄ´»AË OÄ¿ÛÀ»AË ÅÎÄ¿ÛÀ»AË OÀ¼nÀ»AË ÅÎÀ¼nÀ»A ÆA ä æê ê Ð æ ä ê Ð ê æ å æ ä ä æê ê æ å æ ä ê Ð ê æ å æ ä ä æ ê ê æ å æ ì ê 434

Page 435

− ÅΨrb»AË PjJv»AË ÅÍjJv»AË O³fv»AË Åγfv»AË ONÄ´»AË ä æ ê ê Ð æ ä ê Ð ê Õ ä ä æ ê ê Õ ä ê Ð ê Õ ä ä æ ê ê Õ ä ê Ð ê Ð æ ä OÀ v»AË ÅÎÀ Bv»AË O³fvNÀ»AË ÅγfvNÀ»AË O¨rb»AË s r ê Ð Ó ê é ê æ ä ä æ ê Ó ê Ø ì æ ä ê Ð é ê ä ä å æ ä ä æ ê é ê ä ä å æ ä ê Ð ê Ð æ ä Pj· Ah»A ËAjÎR· ɼ»A ÅÍj·h»AË O¤°Z»AË ÈUËj¯ ÅΤ°Z»AË ‘ ö ê Ð ê Õ ì í æê ä ä Õ ä æ ê ê Õ ä ê Ð ê Ð æ ä æ å ä æ å å ä æ ê ê Ð æ ä BÀΤ§ AjUA Ë Ñj°¬¿ ÁÈ» ɼ»A f§A , í æ ê ä í æ ä ì í ä ê æ ì æ å ä å Õ ì ä ä innal muslimina wal muslimati wal mu’minina wal mu’minati − − − − walqanitina walqanitati wassadiqina wassadiqati wassabirina − − − − ± ± − − ± ± − − ± ± − − wassabirati walkhashi‘ina walkhashi‘ati walmutasaddiqina ± ± − − − − − − ± − walmutasaddiqati wsssa’imina wassa’imati walhafizina furuja ± − ± ± − − ± ± − − ± − ± − − hum walhafizati wadhdhakirinallaha kathirañwwadhdhakirati ± − ± − − − − − − − a-‘addallahu lahummaghfira tañwwa ajran ‘azima − ± − − Surely, men who submit themselves and women who submit to God themselves , and believing men and believing women, and to Him obedient men and obedient women, and truthful men and truthful women, and men steadfast and steadfast women, and men who are in their faith humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their chastity and women who guard their chastity, and men who remember Allah much and women who remember -- Allah has Him − − prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward.(33:36) all of It is misunderstood that Islam does not permit equal opportunities − to women to seek knowledge, with men.It is entirely wrong; such a concept is never presented by Islam.− The Holy Prophet says in this regard: sa ÒÀ¼n¿Ë Á¼n¿ ½· Ó¼§ ÒzÍj¯ Á¼¨»A K¼ _ î ä ê æ å ì î ê æ å é ê å Ð ä Ñ ä æ ê ä ê æ ê æ å ä ä 435

Page 436

− talabul 'ilmi faridatun ala kulli muslimiñwwa muslimatin ‘ ± − ± − It is the duty of every Muslim man and Muslim woman to seek knowledge.(Ibni Majah Bab Fadlul ‘ulama’ walhath ‘ala talabul ‘ilm musnad al − − ± − − imamul a‘zam - kitabul ‘ilm, p 20) − − Then again, the Holy Qur’an says: − Ÿnλ BÈUËk BÈÄ¿ ½¨U Ë ÑfYAË o°Ã Å¿ ¸´¼a Ôh»A ÌÇ ‘ ä å æ äê ä ä æ ä ä æ ê ä ä ì î ä ê ì î æ ì æ éê æ å ä ä ä æ ê ì ä å ̧e O¼´QA BÀ¼¯ ÉI PjÀ¯ B°Î°a ÝÀY O¼ÀY BÈr¬M BÀ¼¯ BÈλA ä ä ì æ ä ä æä Ø ì ä ä ô × ê æ ì ä ä í æ ê ä í æ ä æ ä ä ä ä Õ ä ä ì ä ä ô ä æ ä ê ÅÍj¸r»A Å¿ ÅÃ̸Ļ BZ»Bu BÄNÎMA Å » BÀÈIi ɼ»A s , ä æ ê ê Õ ä ê ì ä æ å äì í ê ä ä ä æä Ð æ Ó ê ä ä å ì ä ä Õ hu walladhi khlaqakumminnafsiñwwahidatiñwwa ja‘ala − − − minha zaujaha li yaskuna ilaiha falamma tagashshaha hamalat − − − − − − ± hamlan khafifan famarrat bihi falamma athqaladda ‘awallaha ± − − − − rabbahuma la’in ataitana salihalla nakunanna minashshakirin − − − ± − ± − − − He it is Who has created you from a single being and made from that its mate, that he might find comfort in her.And when he covered her she conceived and carried a light burden and walked about with it.And when she grew heavy, they both prayed to Allah: 'If You give us a healthy − righteous child we shall surely be of those who are grateful.' (7:190) The greatest objection about the treatment of women in Islam is − based upon the following verse of the Holy Qur’an: − ÅÀN¸Í ÆA ÅÈ» ½ZÍ ÜË ÕËj³ ÒR¼Q ÅÈn°ÃBI ÅvIjNÍ O´¼ñÀ»AË ä æ å æ ì æ ä ì å ä é å ê ä ä ä È î æ Ø å å ä ä Ð ä ì ê ê å æä ê ä æ ì ä ä ä å Ð ì ä å æ ä jaÜA ÌλAË É¼»BI Å¿ÌÍ Å· ÆA ÅÈ¿BYiA Ó¯ ɼ»A μ¼a B¿ ’ ê È ê æ Ð ê æ ä æ ä ê Õ ê ì ê Ù å ì å æ ê ì ê ê ä æ ä æ Ø ê å Õ ä ä ä ä ½R¿ ÅÈ»Ë BYÝuA AËeAiA ÆA ¹»g Ó¯ ÅÇejI μYA ÅÈN»Ì¨IË å æ ê ì å ä ä È í ä æê æ Ø å ä ä æ ê ä ê Ð æ ê ì ê éê ä ê ï ä ä ì å åä æ å å ä 436

Page 437

− lÍl§ ɼ»AË ÒUie ÅÈμ§ ¾BUj¼» Ë ²Ëj¨À»BI ÅÈμ§ Ôh»A Ñ æ ê ä å Õ ä È Ñ ä ä ä ì ê æ ä ä ê ä é ê ê ä ê ð æ å æ ä æ ê ì ê æ ä ä æ ê ì θY ,‘ Ñ æ ê ä wal mutallaqatu yatarabbasna bi anfusihinna thalathata quru’ ± − ± − − wa la ya hillu lahunna anyyaktumna ma khalaqallahu fi − ± − − − arhamihinna in kunna yu’minna billahi wal yaumil akhir wa ± − − − bu‘ulatuhunna a-haqqu bi raddi hinna fi dhalika in aradu − ± − − − − islaha walahunna mithlulladhi ‘alaihinna bil ma‘rufi wa ± − − − − lirrijali 'alaihinna darajah wallahu ‘azizun hakim.− − − − And the divorced women shall wait concerning themselves for three courses; and it is not lawful for them that they conceal what Allah has − created in their wombs, if they believe in Allah and the Last Day; and − their husbands have the greater right to take them back during that period, provided they desire reconciliation.And they (The women) have rights similar to those (Of men) over them in equity; but men have a rank above them.And Allah is Mighty, Wise.(2:229) − This verse is very clear, there should not be any problem to understand it, because this verse is not talking about any pre-eminence of men over the women.Rather, men are given more responsibilities about taking care of the women and to give them every possible protection.It must be noted that the Holy Qur’an is not saying that the men are rulers − over the women.Rather, they are guardians or protectors.So it gives even more importance to the women.Women have different roles in society.Sometimes she appears as a mother, sometimes as a wife and sometimes as a daughter.All these roles are respected and dignified in Islam.− 437

Page 438

− Woman as Mother In connection with respect, honor and status of woman as a mother, the Holy Prophet says: sa PBÈ¿ ÜA ÂAf³A OZM ÒÄV»A ê ä ì æ å ê ä æä ä æ ä å ì ä æä al jannatu tahta aqdamil ummahati ± − − Paradise lies under the feet of your mothers.(Nisa'i and Baihaqi) − − − The status described in the tradition of the Holy Prophet is a great sa credit for women.No religion other than Islam presents such a status for − women.There is not even a remote chance to reach to the nearness of these teachings of Islam.− The strain of caring for one's parents in their old age, the most difficult time of their lives, is considered an honor and blessing, and an opportunity for great spiritual growth.God asks that we not only pray for our parents, but act with limitless compassion, remembering that when we were helpless children they preferred us to themselves.Mothers are particularly honored.In Islam, serving one's parents is one of the greatest − duties.It is considered despicable to express any irritation when, through no fault of there own, old age becomes difficult for them.The Holy Qur’an − says: Ŭ¼JÍ B¿A BÃBnYA ÅÍf»A Ì»BIË ÊBÍA ÜA AËfJ¨M ÜA ¹Ii Óz³Ë ì ä å æä ì ê È í ä æê ê æ ä ê ä æ ê ä å ì ê ì Ø ê æ Ø å å æ ä ì ä ä ï ä Ð ä ä Ë BÀÇjÈÄM Ü Ë ²A BÀÈ» ½´M ݯ BÀȼ· ËA BÀÇfYA jJ¸»A ºfħ ä ä å æ ä æä ä ì é î å Ø ä å ì æ å ä ä ä ä å Ð ê æ ä Ø ä å å ä ä ä ä ê æ ä ä æ ê 438

Page 439

− ÒÀYj»A Å¿ ¾h»A `BÄU BÀÈ» |°aAË BÀÍj· Ü̳ BÀÈ» ½³ , ê ä æ ì ä ê é ê ï ä ä ä ä å ä æ ê æ ä í æ ê ä í æ ä ä å ì æ å Ajάu ÓÄÎIi BÀ· BÀÈÀYiA Li ½³Ë , È í æ ê ä æ ê Ð ì ä ä ä ä å æ ä æ é ê ì æ å ä wa qada rabbuka alla ta‘budu illa iyyahu wa bil walidaini ± − − − − − − ihsana imma yablughanna ‘indakal kibara ahada huma au ± − ± − kilahuma fala taqulla huma uffiñwwa la tanhar huma wa qulla − − − − − − huma qaulan karima wakhfid la huma jana-hadhdhalli − − ± − − minarrahmati wa qurrabbir hamhuma kama rabbayani saghira ± ± − − − − ± − Thy Lord has commanded, "Worship none but Him, and kindness show to parents.If one of them or both of them attain old age with thee, never say unto them any word expressive of disgust nor reproach them, but address them with kind words.And lower to them the wing of humility out of tenderness.And say, 'My Lord, have mercy on them even as they nourished me in childhood.'" (17:24-25) my Once a companion of the Holy Prophet of Islam asked, 'O, sa − Apostle of Allah! To whom should I show kindness?' He replied: − ɼ»A ¾Ìmi Ó»A ÕBU ¾B³ Éħ ɼ»A Óyi ÑjÍjÇ ÓIA ŧ ê Õ ê æ å ä Ð ê ä Ø ä ä ä å æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä æ ä å æ ê ä æ ä ÅnZI pBÄ»A μYA Å¿ !ɼ»A ¾Ìmi BÍ ¾B´¯ D ê æ å ê ê ì ï ä ä æ ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ä ä ä ä _ ¹¿A : ¾B³ ?ÓNIBZu ä ï å ä ä æ êä ä ä _ ¹¿A : ¾B³ ?Å¿ ÁQ ¾B³ ä ï å ä ä æ ä ì å ä ä _ ¹¿A : ¾B³ ?Å¿ ÁQ ¾B³ ä ï å ä ä æ ä ì å ä ä _ ºÌIA : ¾B³ ?Å¿ ÁQ ¾B³ ä æ å ä ä ä æ ä ì å ä ä ?ÒJZv»A ÅnZI μYA Å¿ !ɼ»A ¾Ìmi BÍ ÒÍAËi Ó¯Ë ( ê ä æ ï ê æ å ê ï ä ä æ ä ê Õ ä æ å ä ä ê ä ä ê æ ê ä 439

Page 440

− ºBÃeA ÁQ _ ºÌIA ÁQ _ ¹¿A ÁQ _ ¹¿A ÁQ _ ¹¿A : ¾B³ ä ä æä ì å ä æ å ä ì å ä ï å ì å ä ï å ì å ä ï å ä ä _ ºBÃeA ä ä æä ‘an abi Hurairata qala ja’a rajulan ila rasulillahi faqala ya ra sa − − − − − − − rasulallahi ! man a-haqqunnasi bi husni sahabati? qala: sa − − − ± ± − − − "Ummuka.qala thumma man? qala: ummuka.qala thumma − − − man? qala: ummuka.qala: thumma man? qala: abuka." wa fi − − − − − riwayatin, ya rasulallahi ! man a-haqqu bi husnissuhbati? sa − − − − ± ± ± ± qala: "ummuka, thumma ummuka, thumma ummuka, thumma − abuka, thumma adnaka adnaka." − − − Abu Huraira relates that a man came to the Holy Prophet and enquired: ra sa − 'Messenger of Allah ! Which of all the people is best entitled to kind sa − treatment and the good companionship from me?' He replied: 'Your mother.' And after her? The Holy Prophet !replied: 'Your mother.' sa And after her? The Holy Prophet !replied: 'Your mother.' sa And after her? He replied: 'Your father.' Another version is: The man asked: 'Prophet of Allah ! Who is best sa − entitled to my kind treatment?' He replied: 'Your mother, then your mother, then your mother, then your father, and then your relatives, your near relatives in order of rank wise.' (Bukhari Kitabul adab Bab min a-haqqunnasi bihusnassuhbati wa Muslim) − − − − ± − ± ± ± ± Woman as Wife Woman as a wife, has also a very great status in Islam as it − is described in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and sayings of the − Holy Prophet of Islam.sa − 440

Page 441

− The Holy Qur’an says: − BÈλA AÌĸnN» BUAËkA ¸n°ÃA Å¿ ¸» μ¼a ÆA ÉNÍA Å¿Ë ‘ ‘ ä æ ä ê æ Ø å å æ äéê í ä æä æ å ê å æä æ éê æ å ä ä ä ä æ ä × Ø ê Ð Ð æ ê ä ÆËj¸°NÍ ÂÌ´» OÍÜ ¹»g Ó¯ ÆA ÒÀYi Ë ÑeÌ¿ ¸ÄÎI ½¨UË , ‘ ä æ å î ä ä ì î æ ä éê î Ð ä Ð ä ê Ð æ ê ì ê È í ä æ ä ì í ì ä ì æ å ä æä ä ä ä ä wa min ayatihi an khalaqa lakummin anfusikum azwajalli − − − − taskunu ilaiha wa ja‘ala bainakumma waddatañwwa rahmah − − ± inna fi dhalika la ayatilli qaumiñyyata fakkarun − − − − − A nd of His Signs , that He has created wives for you from one is this among yourselves that you may find peace of mind in them, and He has put love and tenderness between you.In that, surely, are Signs for a people who reflect.(30:22) The Holy Prophet of Islam says: sa − Ó¼ÇÜ Á·jÎa BÃA Ë É¼ÇÜ Á·jÎa Á·jÎa æ ê æê ä æ å å æ ä ä Ú ä × ê æê ä æ å å æ ä æ å å æ ä khairukum khairukum li ahlihi wa ’ana khairukum li − − ahli − The best among you are those who are good to their families and I am the best of those who are good to their families.(Abu Da’ud) − − − Woman as Daughter As a daughter, woman also has a great status in Islam.It is − mentioned in the sayings of the Holy Prophet of Islam : sa − 441

Page 442

− ½ÀZM ÒÄθn¿ ÓÄM ÕBU O»B³ BÈħ ɼ»A Ïyi ÒrÖB§ ŧ < å ê æ ä Ñ ä æ ê æ ê æ ê æ ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä ê ä æ ä BÀÈÄ¿ ÑfYAË ½· Oñ§B¯ PAjÀM TÝQ BÈNÀ¨B¯ BÈ» ÅÎNÄIA ä å æ ê î ä ê ä ì å æ ä æ ä ä î ä ä ä ä ä ä ä å æ ä æä ä ä ä ê æä ä æ O´r¯ BÇBNÄIA BÈNÀ¨ñNmB¯ Bȼ·BN» ÑjÀM BÈί Ó»A O¨¯i Ë ÑjÀM ê ì ä ä ä ä ä æ ä æ ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ä å æäéê í æ ä ä æ ê Ð ê æ ä ä ä ì í æ ä BÈÃBq ÓÄJV§B¯ BÀÈÄÎI Bȼ·BM ÆA fÍjM OÃB· ÓN»A ÑjÀN»A ä å æ ä æ ê ä ä æ ä ä ä å ä æä ä ä å æä æ ä å æ ê å æ ä ä æ êì ä ä æ ì f³ ɼ»A ÆA ¾B´¯ ɼ»A ¾Ìmj» O¨Äu Ôh»A Pj·h¯ < D æ ä ä Õ ì ê ä ä ä ê Õ ê æ å ä ê æ ä ä ä æ ê ì å æ ä ä ä _ iBÄ»A Å¿ BÈI BÈ´N§A ËA ÒÄV»A BÈI BÈ» KUËA ê ì ä ê ä ê ä ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ì ä æ ä ê ä ä ä ä æ ä ‘an ‘A’ishata qalat: ja’atni miskinatun tahmilubnataini laha ra − − − − − ± − fa at‘amtuha thalatha tamaratin fa a‘tat kulla wahidatin ± − − − ± − ± minhuma tamratañwwa rafa‘at ila fiha tamratalli ta’kulaha fas − − − − − tat‘amat habnataha fa shaqqa tittamratallati kanat turidu an ± − − − − − ta’kulaha bainahuma fa a‘jabani sha’nuha fa dhakartulladhi − − − − − sana‘at li rasulillahi faqala: innallaha qad aujaba laha bihal sa ± − − − − − jannata au a‘taqaha biha mi nannar − − − Hadrat ‘A’isha relates that a woman came to me with her two little ra ± ± − daughters.I gave three dates to her.She gave one date to each of her two daughters.She was about to put the third date in her mouth when her daughters asked her for the last date.At this, she divided the date into two parts and gave one part to each of her daughters.I was very much astonished to see her maternal love for the children, and I mentioned it to the Holy Prophet.The Prophet of Islam said: 'On account of this act, sa sa − God Almighty has granted her a place in the Heaven or he said that God Almighty has saved her from fire of Hell due to the love shown by her towards her daughters.' (Bukhari Kitabuz Zakat Bab ittaqunnara wa lau bi shaqqi tamratin) − − − − − − To sum up, a Muslim woman's primary duty is her duty to Allah, and then comes her duty to her fellow beings.Islam reminds her − − 442

Page 443

− that her foremost responsibility is to her husband and children.However, it does not restrict her to that role; she has the right to go out and work if she needs to, but she is not obliged to shoulder the financial responsibility for the household.She is encouraged to seek higher education for her own improvement, and subsequently for her offspring.The institution of Purdah (Veil) provides her with an environment of respect and dignity.In no way does it limit her pursuit of a professional career, a business or other kind of profitable activity.Some misconceptions concerning the role of women in society are prevalent because, unfortunately, some "Muslim" countries do not practice the teachings of the Holy Qur’an.In these societies, the education and − training of Muslim women is very much neglected.This may be due to political reasons; or to the fact that some of these societies live in abject poverty, where women are deprived of their right to education.Lacking this tool, they are unaware of the status Islam has given them and are still − submitting to conditions similar to the time before Islam was born.However, Within the Ahmadiyya Muslim , one will find Jama'at ± − that women are well aware of the rights that were brought to them by the Holy Prophet of Islam.Most Ahmadi women are well-educated, and sa − ± − active in many spheres of life, while maintaining their dignity through Islam.One of the beautiful aspects of Islamic teaching is that by defining − − the role of women in society, and then by giving dignity to that role, Muslim women feel fulfilled in themselves.This is a great blessing from God Almighty.(The Ahmadiyya Gazette, January 2002, pp 17-19; Pathway to Paradise, Lajna ± Ima’illah, USA, pp.37-38) − − Segregation of the Sexes People in the West grossly misunderstand the Islamic social system − of (Lit.Veil), which is seen as the segregation between the two 'Purdah' sexes.The misunderstanding partly arises out of a misapplication of the 443

Page 444

− true teachings of Islam in many parts of the Muslim world and the − negative role of the Western media.It has become a rule with the Western media to associate the ugliness of behavior, wherever it occurs with Islam, − and to refrain from associating Jewish, Christian, Buddhist or Hindu behavior to their respective religions.The Islamic injunction of segregation is certainly not born out of a − narrow-minded attitude of the past dark ages.In fact, the question of promiscuousness or otherwise in a society, has no relationship whatsoever to the advancement or backwardness of time.Societies throughout history have either ridden along the crest or descended to the troughs of social or religious waves.The concept of women's liberation is not at all a progressive trend of human society.There is strong evidence that both in the remote past, as well as in the closer period of human history, women as a class have held a very powerful and dominant position in human society in different parts of the world.Free and uninhibited intercourse between the male and female section of the society is nothing new and novel.Civilizations came and went.Behavior patterns kept oscillating between one style and another.The myriads of social tendencies have been falling and settling down into different patterns, only to go through new experimentation and formation at each twist of the kaleidoscope.Yet, no trend has ever been fixed by which we could conclude with certainty that throughout history, society traveled from segregation to promiscuity or from confinement to comparative emancipation and liberation of women.......Before Islam, in Arabia, women were treated as chattels and − were deprived the right to oppose their husbands, fathers or other members of the family.However, there were exceptions to the rule.Occasionally, a woman of outstanding leadership quality would play a significant role in the affairs of the tribe.Islam changed all that, not as a natural progressive outcome of − social tensions but as an arbiter of values.A social system was dictated from on high which was unrelated to the normal forces which shape a society.444

Page 445

− Through the teachings of segregation, sexual anarchy was brought to a sudden halt.Order between male and female relationship was established on the basis of deep moral principles.The status of women was simultaneously raised to such high standards that they could no longer be treated as helpless commodities.They were given an equal share in the affairs of life.Whereas previously, they were distributed as chattels of inheritance, now they could inherit not only the estate of their fathers but also of their husbands, children and next of kin.They could now stand up to their husbands and talk back to them.They could reason with them and, of course, had the full right to disagree.They could not only be divorced but they had equal rights to divorce their husbands if they so pleased.......The teaching of segregation should be understood in this context.It was not the outcome of any male superiority, but was designed to establish the sanctity of the home; to create greater trust between man and wife; bring temperance to basic human urges; and to harness and discipline them so that, instead of being released as powerful demons in society, they play a constructive role, just as harnessed forces play a role in nature.The Islamic concept of segregation is only to be understood in the − context of measures to protect the sanctity of female chastity and the honor of women in society so that the dangers of violating these objectives are minimized.......According to Islam, women must be emancipated from − exploitation and playing a role of being mere instruments of pleasure.They must have more time to themselves to discharge their responsibilities towards homes and the future generation of mankind.(Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad,1992, pp 78-81) − ± ± − ± − ± 445

Page 446

− 19 SOME OF THE ISLAMIC MANNERS − AND ETIQUETTE ISLAMIC DIETARY LAWS − As with all matters concerning a Muslim's life, Islam provides − guidance for a pure and healthy life.The Holy Qur’an says: − ÉI ½ÇA F¿ Ë jÍlÄb»A Z» Ë Âf»AË ÒNÎÀ»A ¸Î¼§ ÂjY BÀÃA ‘ ‘ × ê ì êå ä ä ê æ ê æ ê æ ä æ ä ä ä ì ä ä ä æ ä æ å å æ ä ä ä ì ä ä ì ê ɼ»A ÆA Éμ§ QA ݯ eB§ Ü Ë ®BI jΫ jñyA ÅÀ¯ ɼ»A jά» ‘ ä Õ ì ê ê È æ ä ä ä æê ä Ø ä î ä ä ì î ä ä æ ä ì å æ ê ä ä ô ê Õ ê æ ä ê ÎYi ḭ« ,‘ Ñ æ ê ì Ñ æ å ä innama harrama ‘alaikumul maitata waddama wa − ± lahmalkhinziri wa ma ‘uhilla bihi li ghairillah famanidturra ± − − − − ± ± ghaira baghiñwwa la ‘adin fala ithma ‘alaih innallaha − − − − − ghafururrahim − ± − He has made unlawful to you only that which dies of itself, and blood and the flesh of swine, and that on which the name of any other than Allah has been invoked.But he who is driven by necessity, being neither − disobedient nor exceeding the limit, it shall be no sin for him.Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful (2-174) − The first three categories are prohibited because they are harmful to the body, and that which is harmful to the body is harmful to the spirit.446

Page 447

− The last prohibition relates to something which is directly harmful morally and spiritually, and it amounts to association with God.Allah has made the − provision that a believer may use prohibited food if absolutely necessary, i.e., if it is a matter of life and death.The Holy Qur’an further says: − BJÎ ݼY ɼ»A ¸³ki BÀ¿ A̼· Ë ‘ í é ê ä í Ð ä å Õ å å ä ä ä ì ê æ å å ä wa kulu mimma razaqakumullahu halalan tayyiban − − − ± − ± And eat of that which Allah has provided for you of what is lawful and − good.(5:89) The term means "that which is lawful for you"; thus "Halal" Halal ± − ± − meat is which has been slaughtered in the name of Allah, and has the − blood drained out from it.The term means that which is unlawful "Haram" ± − for you, and includes blood, pork, and alcohol.Allah has further − commanded that you eat only what is that is, food that is good "Tayyab", ± and wholesome.Something, may be but it may not be "Halal", "Tayyab", ± − ± and thus should be avoided.There is no good reason for not eating meat of animals, Halal ± − properly slaughtered according to the Islamic way, unless you are − somewhere where animals are not slaughtered in an Islamic way.Halal ± − − However, if it is totally unavailable, then it is permissible to eat meat of Halal animals from regular markets, and invoke the name of Allah over it ± − − before cooking and eating it.(Pathways to Paradise, A Publication of the Lajna Ima’illah, USA, pp.56-57) − − Islam forbids eating the meat of the following: − i.Dead animals and birds (i.e., those which died 'naturally').447

Page 448

− ii.Animals slain without invoking Allah's name.− iii.Animals strangled to death.iv.Pigs v.Carnivorous animals.vi.Animals devoured by wild beasts.PRAYERS BEFORE EATING AND ON FINISHING A MEAL Holy Prophet has said: sa When you begin to eat, pronounce the name of Allah the Exalted: − ɼ»A Ò·jI Ó¼§ Ë É¼»A ÁnI ê Õ ê ä ä ä Ð ä ä ê Õ ê æ ê bismillahi wa ‘ala barakatillah − − − In the name of Allah, and with the blessings of Allah − − ( Tirmidhi Kitabud Da‘wat Bab Ma Yaqulu Idha Faragha Minattu‘am) − − − − − − − − When you finish eating recite the prayer: ÅÎÀ¼n¿ Bļ¨U Ë BÃB´m Ë BÄÀ¨A Ôh»A ɼ» fÀZ»A ä æ ê ê æ å ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä ä æä æ ê ì ê Õ ê å æ ä æä alhamdu lillahilladhi at‘amana wa saqana wa ja‘alana ± − − ± − − − − muslimin − All praise be to Allah who has given us food and drink and made us − Muslims.(Tirmidhi Kitabul at‘amah Bab Ma Yaqulu Idha Farigha min‘al attu‘am) − − − − − − − According to a tradition of the Holy Prophet , if someone forgets sa 448

Page 449

− to say in the beginning of eating, he bismillah hirrahma nirrahim − ± − ± − should say the following when he remembers: ÊjaA Ë É»ËA Ó¯ ɼ»A ÁnI × ê ê Ð ä × ê ì ä æ ê ê Õ ê æ ê bismill hi fi awwalihi wa khirih a a − − − − In the name of Allah, its first and its last − (Tirmidhi Kitabul at‘amah Bab Ma Ja' fissamita ‘alattu‘am) − − − − − − − PRAYERS AT VARIOUS OTHER OCCASIONS In general, when Muslims undertake any activity, they always start it with the name of Allah, saying: − ÁÎYj»A ÅÀYj»A ɼ»A ÁnI ê æ ê ì ê Ð æ ì ê Õ ê æ ê bismilla hirrahma nirrahim − ± − ± − With the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful − (Al-Jami'al Saghir Lilsayuuti Haraf Kaf) − − − − When Muslims terminate an activity, they say: ɼ» fÀZ»A ê Õ ê å æ ä æä alhamdu lillah Praise be to Allah ± − − (Muslim Kitabudhdhikr) − 449

Page 450

− This phrase is said to express gratitude to God Almighty.When a Muslim talks about carrying out some activity in the future, he always adds the phrase: ɼ»A ÕBrÃA å Õ ä ä æê insha allah God Willing − − When a Muslim receives a favor or a gift he thanks the person by saying: ÕAlV»A ÅnYA ɼ»A ºAlU ê ä ä æ ä ä æ ä å Õ ä ä ä jazakallahu ahsanal jaza’ − − ± − May God reward you, the best reward (Tirmidhi Kitabul Bir) − − PRAYERS AT THE TIME OF SNEEZING When a person sneezes, he says: ɼ» fÀZ»A ê Õ ê å æ ä æä alhamdu lillah.(Praise be to Allah) ± − − The other person who hears him sneeze, says: ɼ»A ¹ÀY jÍ å Õ ä å ä æ ä yar hamu kallah (May God have mercy on you).± − 450

Page 451

− The person who had sneezed hearing someone say: ɼ»A ¹ÀY jÍ yar hamu kallah å Õ ä å ä æ ä ± − says: Á¸»BI \¼vÍ Ë É¼»A Á¸Í fÈÍ æ å ä ä å ê æ å ä å Õ å å æ ê æ ä yahdi kumullahu wa yuslihu balakum − − ± ± − May Allah guide you and improve your condition − (Abu Da’ud Kitabul Adab) − − − − USING RIGHT HAND The Holy Prophet always used his right hand for eating, drinking sa and putting on his clothes, and the left for the purpose of other than these.KZÍ É¼»A ¾Ìmi ÆB· O»B³ BÈħ ɼ»A Óyi ÒrÖB§ ŧ D í ê å ê Õ å æ å ä ä ä æ ä ä ä æ ä å Õ ä ê ä ä ä ê ä æ ä - ɼ¨ÃË É¼UjMË ÊiÌÈ Ó¯ ɼ· ÉÃBq Ó¯ ªBñNmA B¿ ÅÀÎN»A × ê æ ä ä × ê í ä ä ä × ê æ å å æ ê × é ê å × ê æ ä æ ê ä ä ä æ ä ä í ä ì ‘an ‘A’ishata qalat kana rasulullahi yuhibbutta yammuna ra sa − − − − − ± mastata‘a fi sha’nihi kullihi fi tuhurihi wa tarajjulihi wa ± − − − − − ± − − − na‘lihi − Hadrat ‘A’isha narrates that the Holy Prophet (as far as possible) ra sa ± ± − likedto do every thing with his right hand even such common chores as doing , taking bath, combing his hair and wearing shoes.wudu’ ± − (Abu Da’ud Kitabul Libas Bab fil anta‘al) − − − − − − − 451

Page 452

− GREETING EACH OTHER When you meet each other say: ÉM B· jIË É¼»A ÒÀYi Ë Á¸Î¼§  Ýn»A ( å ä ä ä ä ä ê Õ å ä æ ä ä æ å æ ä ä å ä ì ä assalamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu − ± − − − Peace be upon you and the Mercy of Allah and blessings of Allah − − (Tirmidhi Abwabul Ist‘dhan fi Fadlul Islam) − − − − ± − Holy Prophet has said: sa ÑjVq BÀÈÄÎI O»BY ÆB¯.Éμ§ Á¼nμ¯ ÊBaA Á·fYA Ó´» AgA Ñ ä ä ä ä å ä æä æ ä ä æ ê ä ê æ ä ä æ é ê ä å æ ä å ää æ å å ä ä ä ê ä ä ê - Éμ§ Á¼nμ¯ Éδ» ÁQ jVY ËA iAfU ËA ( ê æ ä ä æ é ê ä å æ ä ä ê ä ì å Ñ ä ä æ ä Ñ ä ê æ ä idha laqiya ahadukum akhahu fal yusallim ‘alaihi, fa in − ± − halatbaina huma shajaratun au jidarun au hajarun thumma ± − − − ± laqiyahu fal yusallim ‘alaihi − When one of you meets a brother he should offer him salam.Then if they − are separated by a tree or a wall or a rock, he should offer him salam − again when they meet.( Abu Da’ud Kitabul-adab) − − − − ISLAMIC PROHIBITIONS − PROHIBITION OF EATING PORK Eating of pork meat is prohibited in Islam.It is a well known fact − that swine flesh is a source of and induces trichinosis shamelessness.452

Page 453

− The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about "Why as − Eating the Flesh of Swine is Prohibited": "One matter to be kept in mind in this context is that in the very name of the animal, God has indicated the reason for the prohibition of its flesh.The Arabic word for swine is which Khinzir − is compound of and , which means: I see it very foul.Khanz Ara − Thus the very name that God Almighty gave to this animal at the beginning points to its uncleanliness.It is a curious coincidence that in Hindi this animal is called , which is a compound of and Suar Su − − Ara.This also means: I see it very foul....Everyone knows that it − eats filth and is utterly shameless.Thus, the reason for the prohibition of its flesh is obvious, as by the law of nature its flesh would have a foul effect on the body, and the soul of one who eats it.....Even in pre-Islamic times, Greek physicians had opined that − the flesh of this animal particularly damages the faculty of modesty and fosters shamelessness.(The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, − pp 129-130, Published:1996) ALCOHOL Drinking is an addiction to which societies of the world have fallen prey.Muslims are prohibited to consume alcohol and other intoxicants, for these are key to every vice.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − oUi ÜkÜAË LBvÃÜAË jnÎÀ»AË jÀb»A BÀÃA AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ ’ Ñ æ ê å ä æ æ ä ä å ä æ æ ä å ê æ ä æ ä å æ ä æ ä ì ê æ Ø å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÆA ÅñÎr»A fÍjÍ BÀÃA ÆÌZ¼°M ¸¼¨» ÊÌJÄNUB¯ ÅñÎr»A ½À§ Å¿ , ‘ æ ä å Ð æ ì å æ ê å ä ì ê ä æ å ê æ å æ å ì ä ä å æ å ê ä æ ä ê Ð æ ì ê ä ä æ éê ŧ ·fvÍ Ë jnÎÀ»AË jÀb»A Ó¯ ÕFz¬J»AË ÑËAf¨»A ¸ÄÎI ©³ÌÍ ‘ ‘ æ ä æ å ì å ä ä ê ê æ ä æ ä ê æ ä æ ê ä ä æ ä æ ä ä ä ä ä æ å å ä æä ä ê æ í ÆÌÈNÄ¿ NÃA ½È¯ Ñ̼v»A ŧ Ë É¼»A j·g , ‘ ä æ å ä æ í æ å æä æ ä ä ê ô Ð ì ê ä ä ê Õ ê æ ê 453

Page 454

− ya ayyuhalladhina amanu innamal khamru wal maisiru wal − − − − ansabu wal azlamu rijsummin ‘amalishshaitani fajtanibuhu la ± − − ± − − ‘allakum tuflihun innama yuridushshaitanu añyyuqi‘a ± − − − − − bainakumul ‘adawata wal baghda’a fil khamri wal maisiri wa − ± − yasuddakum ‘an dhikrillahi wa ‘anissalati fahal antum ± − ± ± − muntahun − O ye who believe! Intoxicants and games of chance and idols and divining arrows are only an abomination of Satan's handiwork.So shun each one of them that you may prosper.Satan desires only to create enmity and hatred among you by means of intoxicants and games of chance, and to keep you back from the remembrance of Allah and from − Prayer.But will you keep back? (5:91-92) The Holy Prophet has declared Alcohol as: sa S BJb»A ÂA r ê Þ ä ä æ í å Ummul khaba’is "The mother of all evils".− Alcoholism has serious economic and social consequences.Apart from domestic violence, there is child abuse, incest and rape due to the removal of inhibitions under the influence of alcohol and fetal alcohol syndrome.Furthermore, alcohol, apart from its physical dangers, leads to loss of religious faith.GAMBLING Gambling is institutionalized in almost all advanced countries of the world.But even in some Third World countries, where it is not institutionalized on such a large scale, gambling is found almost at every level as small-time individual occupation.In gambling, money changes hands without participating in the process of economic development and production of wealth.Furthermore, in the poor section of the society, the daily needs of family members have to be sacrificed at the altar of gambling.The Holy Qur’an, − 454

Page 455

− while prohibiting drinking and gambling, acknowledges that there is, of course, some partial benefit to be derived from them, but most certainly their harm always outweighs their advantage: ©¯BÄ¿ ËjÎJ· QA FÀÈί ½³ jnÎÀ»AË jÀb»A ŧ ¹Ã̼ nÍ ‘ s å ê ä ä ì Ñ æê ä Ñ æê ä ê æ ê æ å ê È ê æ ä æ ä ê æ ä æ ê ä ä ä æ å Ú æ ä BÀȨ°Ã Å¿ jJ·A FÀÈÀQA Ë pBļ» È ä ê ê æ ì æ ê å ä æ ä ä å å æê ä ê ì ê yas’alunaka ‘anil khamri wal maisir qul fi hima ithmun − − − kabiruñwwa manafi‘u linnasi wa ithmu huma akbaru minnaf − − − − ‘ihima They ask thee concerning wine and the game of hazard.Say: 'In both there is a great sin and also advantages for men; but their sin is some greater than their advantage.' (2:220) (Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 130-132) − ± ± − ± − ± INTEREST God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − AÌIj»A jYË ©ÎJ»A ɼ»A ½YA Ë ’ È Ð é ê ä ì ä ä ä æä æ å Õ ì ä ä ä wa a-hallalla hulbai’a wa harra marriba ± − ± − Whereas Allah has made trade lawful and interest unlawful (2:276) − The word used in the Holy Qur’an is " the Riba", − − connotation of which is not identical with the word "interest".Islam − condemns the institution of interest in all its forms and strongly urges its total elimination.However, if someone has money in the 455

Page 456

− bank and he must get interest on the deposits, then the income from interest should be used for the propagation of Islam.One should − not use income from interest on himself or his family as it is prohibited in Islam, i.e., it is (Unlawful).Haram − ± − is prohibited because it tends to draw wealth into the Riba − hands of a small circle and to restrict the exercise of beneficence towards one's fellow beings.In the case of loans, which bear interest, the lender in effect takes advantage of, and makes a profit from, the need or distress of another.Islam urges the making of − loans, but says they should be beneficent loans, meaning, without interest.If the debtor finds himself in straitened circumstances when the time for payment of a loan arrives, he should be granted respite till he finds himself in easier circumstances, but " if you remit it as charity shall be the better for you, if only you knew." (Holy Qur’an, 2:281) − Islam has forbidden usury and interest.The main reason − being that it gives way to perversion, which gradually eliminates the sense of human kindness and brotherhood.Lending on interest results in wealth accumulating with a few people and the rest of the society is totally dependent on their mercy in matters of economics.Although a few amass great wealth due to this system, on the other hand, thousands remain penniless and indigent.The Islamic view − point is that wealth should not amass among one group of people but should circulate among as many people as possible.Those who have the capacity and ability to increase the wealth may do so, and it can be divided all over again.The Holy Qur’an predicts that − interest and usury can lead to wars.An observation of history shows that if usury were not in custom, certain wars in history would not have prolonged as they did.In the current age, endless arrangements are being made for a fierce war.Its causes lie mostly in interest and usury as well.If this custom did not prevail, various nations could only prepare for warfare on a very small scale.This would not put so much financial burden on them and there would not be such a danger of destruction.Islam considers taking and giving of loan, without interest, − admissible.Islam directs to put all such dealings in writing − 456

Page 457

− regardless of the amount under consideration.The said document should then be witnessed and a prepayment period should be fixed.The person taking the loan should formulate this document.If they are under age, etc., then someone should act on their behalf.There are similar instructions about all pacts and contracts.It is directed that there should be no interest involved in all pacts and partnerships."Interest" means, one party lays a clause, that in return of the usage of their money or goods, they would receive a fixed amount of money or goods or would receive the money or goods loaned on a fixed rate.Indeed, a partnership based on the principles of business whereby both or all parties are equally responsible and have equal rights to receive profit and loss on a fixed rate, is admissible and is not objectionable.(Letter to a Dear One, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, pp 99-100) ± ± − PLACING FLOWERS ON GRAVES Placing flowers on the graves of deceased relatives is considered as an expression of love for them.However, this is not in line with the teachings of Islam.This imitation of non-Muslim − practice is an undesirable innovation ( ) in religion.It is Bid‘at against the spirit of Islam.Love for the deceased relatives can best − be expressed in the form of prayers to Allah for forgiveness of the − departed soul and elevation of his/her spiritual station.BIRTHDAYS Muslims, especially Ahmadis, do not celebrate birthdays in ± − the same fashion as they are celebrated in Western society.A birthday is seen as the decrease of the life span by a year, thus a cause for prayer rather than a celebration.Muslims take part in national holidays, such as Independence day and Thanksgiving day, but do not celebrate Christmas, Easter, Halloween and Valentine's day.457

Page 458

− WEDDING CEREMONIES A wedding is a very personal, happy, emotional, and memorable experience for families and friend.It consists of mostly family functions, but also some public functions.A typical Ahmadi Muslim wedding should be a reflection of ± − the Ahmadiyya community's sincere adherence to true Islamic ± principles and practices of modesty (moderation, simplicity and purdah).The following guidelines will help in the planning and setup of proper Ahmadiyya Muslim wedding ceremonies: ± 1.There should be a conspicuous separation of men and women.2.If non-Ahmadi guest's families prefer to stay together ± − during these ceremonies, they may stay in the men's side.3.There should be no video or photography in the women's side, unless the non-family guests have departed.4.The bridegroom and his party should not go in the women's side unless the non-family guests have departed.5.During various wedding ceremonies kike , men Mehndi − should not go in the women's side.The women, however, may entertain themselves through dignified, clean and wholesome activities, like singing wedding songs, etc.Dancing should be avoided.All such functions should be conducted with minimal formality.6.Gifts at the weddings are voluntary and optional.The practice of gift-registry is to be avoided so as not to create any sense of obligation to subscribe.(The Ahmadiyya Gazette, USA, January/February 2003, p 34) ± 458

Page 459

− 20 ISLAMIC CONCEPT OF: − DIVINE REVELATION One of the attributes of Allah is that He 'Speaks'.These days, apart − from the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, almost the whole world rejects ± − this concept.Most people consider that although in times gone by Allah − spoke to His servants.He does not do it anymore and is not going to do so in the future either.It is, as if they consider this attribute of Allah has been − suspended.Then there is another section of people who were not convinced of this attribute at all.In any case, according to both these schools of thought, this attribute of Allah is not prevalent in the present − age.Such a supposition about Allah's Being is extreme distrust.The truth − of the matter is that those who consider that Allah does not speak to His − servants, even if they formally agreed that He once did have this attribute, they could never truly believe this factor.It is not possible that one who has true knowledge of the Divine attributes would ever believe that Allah − once had this attribute, but it is now suspended.How could a Muslim consider that Allah once spoke to His servants but is now so displeased − with the people of Muhammad that not even the spiritually accomplished sa ± people among them can have this honor.Such a conjecture is not only a mistrust of Allah, but it also puts the idea of man's spiritual development in − doubt.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi said if it were to be true that the as − mode of Divine discourse had stopped, then those who loved Allah would − lose their lives, and their faith in Allah would not reach the stage of being a − 'certain' truth.Therefore, rest assured, that Allah still speaks to His loved ones as − He did before.Just as man's connection with Allah increases, according to − 459

Page 460

− his capacity and ingenuity, he sees manifestation of this Divine attribute, be it imperceptible, be it evident; whether it is in the form like that of dewdrops or whether it be like pelting rain.(Letter to a Dear One, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, pp 27-28) ± ± − The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about Revelation: as − "It is the living and powerful converse of the Holy and Mighty God with a chosen servant of His, or with one whom He designs to make His elect.When this converse starts in an adequate and satisfactory manner, being altogether free from the darkness of false concepts, and is not composed merely of a few inadequate and meaningless words, and is full of delight and wisdom and grandeur, then it surely is the Word of God with which He designs to comfort His servant and to manifest Himself to him.Sometimes, revelation is vouchsafed to a person by way of trial and is not equipped with full blessings.In such a case, the recipient is put on a trial at this elementary stage so that having tasted somewhat of revelation he should order his life along the lines of those who are true recipients of revelation, in default of which he would encounter frustration.If he does not adopt the ways of the truly righteous, he is deprived of the fullness of this bounty and is left only with vain boasting.Millions of the virtuous have been recipient of revelation, but they were not of equal standing in the estimation of God.Indeed, even the Holy Prophets of God, who are recipients of Divine revelation at the highest level, are not equal in rank, as God Almighty has said: M |¨I Ó¼§ Èz¨I Bļz¯ ½mj»A ¹¼ ‘ î ë æ ä Ð ä æ å ä æ ä ä æ ì ä å å í ä æ ê tilkarrusulu faddalna ba‘dahum ‘ala ba‘dim ± ± − ± − ± These Messengers have We exalted, some of them above others.(2:254) This shows that revelation is pure Divine Grace and is not evidence 460

Page 461

− of exaltation.Exaltation is according to the degree of truth, sincerity, and faithfulness of the recipient, which is known only to God.If revelation possesses all its blessed conditions, it is also one of the fruits of such qualities.There is no doubt that if revelation takes the form that the recipient submits a question and God responds to it, and there is a sequence between question and answer, and the revelation is characterized by Divine Majesty and light, and comprehends knowledge of the unseen and true understanding, it is truly the Word of God.It is necessary that Divine revelation should be like a dialog between two friends.When the servant submits a question he should receive a delicious and eloquent response from God Almighty in which his own self thinking and reflection should have no part.If such a dialogue is bestowed as a bounty upon a person, it is the Word of God and its recipient is held dear by God.That revelation should be bestowed as a bounty, and a living and holy series of revelations should be bestowed upon a servant by God, clearly, and in a pure form, is not the portion of anyone except of those who attain a high level of faith and sincerity and righteous action, and of that which we cannot here disclose.True and holy revelation displays many wonders of the Godhead.Very often a brilliant light is generated, and along with a majestic and shining revelation is vouchsafed.What could be a greater bounty than that a recipient of revelation should hold converse with the Being Who is the Creator of the Heavens and the earth.God can be seen in this world only through converse with Him." (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp 129-130, Published:1996) − Characteristics of True Revelation The Promised Messiah and Mahdi have stated the following as − characteristics of a true revelation: 1.It is revealed at a time when the heart of the recipient, being melted through its ache for truth, flows towards God Almighty like clear water.This is indicated in the Hadith that the Holy Qur’an was ± − − revealed in sorrow and should be studied with a sorrowful heart.2.True revelation is accompanied by delight and conveys certainty in 461

Page 462

− an unknown manner and penetrates into the heart like an iron nail.Its words are eloquent and free from error.3.True revelation possesses a certain majesty and strikes the heart with power and descends upon it in an awesome voice.False revelation is conveyed in a low voice like the voice of thieves and eunuchs and women inasmuch as Satan is a thief and an eunuch and a woman.4.The revelation is charged with the power of God Almighty and contains prophecies which are fulfilled.5.True revelation fosters the recipient's goodness and purifies him of inner impurities and improves his moral condition.6.True revelation is borne witness to by all the inner powers of the recipient and it sheds a new and pure light on all his faculties and he perceives a change in himself.His previous life comes to an end and a new life begins for him and he becomes a source of sympathy for mankind.7.True revelation does not finish with only one phrase for God's voice has a continuation.He is very gentle and he talks to him towards whom He is inclined and answers his questions.A recipient of true revelation receives a response to his supplications at one place and at one time though sometimes an interval occurs between two series of revelations.8.The recipient of true revelation is never a coward and is not afraid to stand up to false claimants of revelation.He knows that God is with him and would humiliate a false claimant.9.True revelation is the means of acquiring knowledge and understanding for God does not desire to leave its recipient without knowledge and ignorant.10.True revelation is accompanied by many a blessings.A recipient of 462

Page 463

− true revelation is bestowed honor from the unseen and is given prestige.(Zaruratul Imam, pp 13-19) ± − − THE SOUL The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about the Soul: as − "It is absolutely true that the soul is a fine light which is developed inside the body and is nurtured in the womb.To begin with, it is hidden and imperceptible and later it is made manifest.From the very beginning its essence is present in the sperm.It is related to the sperm in a mysterious manner by the design and command and Will of God.It is a bright and illumined quality of the sperm.It cannot be said that it is a part of the sperm as matter is a part of matter, nor can it be said that it comes from outside or falls upon the earth and gets mixed with the matter of the sperm.It is latent in the sperm as fire is latent in the flint.The Word of God does not mean that the soul descends from Heaven as a separate entity or falls upon the earth from the atmosphere and then by chance gets mixed with the sperm and enters the womb with it.There is no basis for such a notion.The law of nature rejects it.We observe daily that thousands of insects infect impure and stale foods and are generated in unwashed wounds.Dirty linen secretes hundreds of lice and all sorts of worms are generated inside a person's stomach.It cannot be said that all these come from outside or can be observed as descending from Heaven.The truth is that the soul is developed in the body, and this also proves that it is created and is not self-existent.The design of the Almighty, Who has created the soul from the body, with His perfect power appears to be that the second birth of the soul should also take place through the body.The movements of the soul follow the movements of the body.If the body is drawn in a particular direction the soul automatically follows it.It is, therefore, a function of the Book of God to direct itself to the natural state of man: that is why the Holy Qur’an − pays so much attention to the reform of the natural state of man and gives 463

Page 464

− directions regarding each of his actions, his laughing, weeping, eating, clothing, sleeping, speaking, keeping silent, marrying, remaining celibate, walking, standing still, outward cleanliness, bathing, submitting to a discipline in health and in illness, etc.It affirms that man's physical condition affects his spiritual condition deeply." (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp 7-8, Published: 1996) − LIFE AFTER DEATH The Holy Qur’an makes it amply clear that the form of existence of − the life to come will be so different from all known forms of life here on earth, that it is beyond human imagination even to have the slightest glimpse of the otherworldly realities.God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − ÆÌÀ¼¨M Ü B¿ Ó¯ ¸ rÄÃ Ë ¸»BR¿A ¾fJà ÆA ¼§ , ‘ s ‘  ä æ å ä æ ä ä ä æ ê æ å Ú ê æå ä æ å ä ä æ ä ä é ê äí æ ä ê ä ‘ala annubaddila amthalakum wa nunshi’akum fi ma la − − − − − ta‘lamun − From changing your forms and raising you into something of present which you have no idea.(56:62) This is the categorical statement of the Qur’an on the subject.In − recent times, the founder of the Ahmadiyya Community, Hadrat Mirza ± ± ± − Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian presented this view of spiritual existence as as − ± against carnal existence in his unique and outstanding treatise entitled ' The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam'.All views propounded in the book − are well documented with Qur’anic references and traditions of the Holy − Founder of Islam.A brief account is produced here: − "According to his (Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, the ± ± − − ± Promised Messiah and Mahdi ) profound study, the life in the Hereafter as − would not be material.Instead, it would be of a spiritual nature of which 464

Page 465

− we can only visualize certain aspects.We cannot determine precisely how things will take shape.One of the salient features of his vision of the Hereafter concerns the soul giving birth to another rare entity, which would occupy the same position in relation to the soul as the soul occupies in relation to our carnal existence here on earth.The birth of a soul from within the soul will be related to the sort of life that we have lived here on earth.If our lives are spent in submission to the Will of God and in accordance with His commands, our states gradually become cultured and attuned to enjoying spiritual pleasures as against carnal pleasures.Within the soul a sort of embryonic soul begins to take shape.New faculties are born and new tastes are acquired, in which those accustomed to carnal pleasures find no enjoyment.These new types of refined human beings can find the content of their heart.Sacrifice, instead of the usurpation of others' rights, becomes enjoyable.Forgiveness takes the upper hand of revenge, and love, with no selfish motive, is born like a second nature, replacing all relationships that have ulterior motives.Thus, one can say a new soul within the soul is in the offing." (An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 46,47) − ± ± − ± − ± The exact nature of the life after death has been one of the most difficult phenomenon of all ages due to simple fact that no one can stand witness to it and is, therefore, unable to explain the details of that world through one's personal experience.However, seekers after truth can certainly find quite elaborate guidance in the words of those who are able to enlighten others on the basis of their spiritual knowledge and insight bestowed upon them by Almighty God.Some of the guiding points put forward by Hadrat Mirza Ghulam ± ± − − Ahmad, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in his famous book, as The ± − Teachings of Islam' are quoted here: − " Briefly, the state after death is not altogether a new state; it is in fact a complete representation, a full and clear image of our spiritual state in the present life.Here the good or bad aspects of the acts or thoughts of a man are latent within him and their benefit or harm is often perceived only indirectly, but in the life to come they shall become manifest and as clear 465

Page 466

− as daylight.An idea of this, although a very imperfect one, may be had from the manner in which a person sees in a dream the embodiment of whatever is predominant in his temperament....From the manner in which internal conditions are presented in physical forms in dreams, we can form some idea of the embodiment of the spiritual conditions of this world in the life to come.After our earthly course is run, we are translated to regions where our deeds and their consequences assume manifest shape; what is hidden in us in this world is there unrolled and laid open before us.These embodiments of spiritual facts are manifest realities, as even in a dream, though the sight soon vanishes away, yet so long as it is before our eyes it is perceived as a reality.It should be borne in mind that the Holy Qur’an describes three − worlds or three different states of the life of man: The first world is the present one which is called the world of earning and of the first creation.It is here that man earns a reward for the good or bad deeds he does.Although there are stages of advancement of the good after resurrection, that advancement is granted simply by the grace of God and does not depend upon human effort.The second world is called.The word means any 'Barzakh' intermediate state.As this world falls between the present life and resurrection, it has been called....The state of is that in 'Barzakh' 'Barzakh' which the soul leaves the mortal body and the perishable remains decompose.The body is thrown into a pit and the soul also is thrown down into a pit because it loses the power to do good or bad deeds along with its loss of control over the body.It is evident that a good state of the soul is dependent upon the soundness of the body....Experience establishes the fact beyond all reasonable doubt that with all its connections severed from the body, the soul can serve no purpose.It is idle to assert that the human soul can, any time, enjoy bliss without having any connection with the body.It may please us as an interesting tale but reason and experience lend no support to it.We can hardly imagine the soul to be in a perfect condition when all its connections with the body are cut off in the face of our recurring experiences that the slightest derangement of the physical system interrupts the functions of the soul as well.There is no doubt that after death, the body of clay is severed from the soul, but then in the , every soul receives temporarily a new 'Barzakh' 466

Page 467

− body to be in a position to taste the reward or punishment of its deeds.This new body is not a body of clay but a bright or a dark body prepared from the actions of this life.Such is the Qur’anic description of the body in the − 'Barzakh', namely that the soul has a new body which is bright and dark according to the good or bad actions which a man performs.It may appear as a mystery to some, but this much at least must be admitted: that it is not unreasonable.The perfect man realizes the preparation of such a bright body even in this life.Ordinary human understanding may regard it as a mystery which is beyond comprehension, but those who possess keen and bright spiritual sight will have no difficulty in realizing the truth of a bright or a dark body after death prepared from actions in this life.In short, the new body granted in the becomes the means of the reward of 'Barzakh' good or evil.I have personal experience in this matter.Many a time, when fully awake, I have seen visions in which I saw those who were dead.I have seen many an evil-doer and wicked person with a body quite dark and smoky.I have personal acquaintance with these matters and I assert it strongly that as Almighty God has said, everyone is granted a body either transparent or dark.it is not necessary that unaided reason should be able to comprehend these mysteries.The third world is the world of resurrection.In this world every soul good or bad, virtuous or wicked, shall be given a visible body.The day of resurrection is the day of complete manifestation of God's Glory when everyone shall become perfectly aware of the existence of God.On that day every person shall have a complete and open reward for his actions.How this can be brought about is not a matter to wonder at for God is Almighty and nothing is impossible for Him.Punishment and reward are bestowed immediately after death, and those whose proper place is Hell are brought to Hell while those who deserve Paradise are brought to Paradise.But the day of resurrection is the day of manifestation of the highest Glory of God, which His transcendent wisdom has ordained should at last be brought about.God created man and He may be recognized as the Vanquisher of all; and, last of all, He shall give a perfect life to all and assemble them that He may be recognized as 467

Page 468

− the All-Poweful Being.The Holy Qur’an has described three important points in − connection with the next life: First, it has repeatedly explained that the life after death is not a new life but only an image and manifestation of this life.Thus it says: ÒÀδ»A ÌÍ É» XjbÃ Ë É´Ä§ Ó¯ Êj× ÉÄ¿l»A ÆBnÃA ½· Ë ’ ( ( ê ä Ð ê æ ä æ ä ä å ê æ å ä × È ê å å æ ê ä ê ê å Ð æ ä æä î ä æê ì å ä AiÌrÄ¿ É ´¼Í BJN· , s í æ å æ ä å Ð æ ì í Ð ê wa kulla insanin alzamnahu ta’irahu fi ‘unuqih wa nukhriju − − ± − − − lahu yaumal qiyamati kitabañyyalqa hu manshura − − − − − And every man's record of deeds have We fastened to his neck, and on the Day of Resurrection We shall bring out for him a book which he will find wide open.(17:14) The word used in this verse should be particularly noted."Ta‘ir" ± − "Ta‘ir" literally means a bird and is here used metaphorically to signify ± − the actions of men.For every action, whether good or bad, takes flight like a bird.The bliss or the burden a person feels in the performance of an action passes away but it leaves its good or bad impression upon the heart.Every action of a man is, in fact, followed by an action of God, which imprints its good or bad effect not only upon the heart but also upon the hands, the feet, the ears, the eyes, etc; of the doer.This book which records every action, and hidden from the human eye, is being prepared in this life and shall show itself clearly in the next.The second point of importance which the Holy Qur’an has − described with reference to the life to come is that the spiritual facts of this life shall be represented in the next (Whether or resurrection) as 'Barzakh' embodiments.Some of the verses bearing upon this subject are: ÝÎJm ½yAË À§A ÑjaÜA Ó¯ Ìȯ À§A ÊhÇ Ó¯ ÆB· Å¿ Ë ,   í æê ä í ä ä ä Ð æ ä ê ä ê æ Ð ê ä å ä Ð æ ä × Ø ê Ð æ ê ä ä æ ä ä 468

Page 469

− wa man kana fi hadhi hi a‘ma fa huwa fil akhirati a‘ma wa − − − − − − − adallu sabila ± − But whoso is blind in this world will be blind in the Hereafter, and even more astray from the way.(17:73) In other words, the spiritual blindness of this world shall become apparent and shall be seen as actual blindness in the next.In another verse of the Holy Qur’an God Almighty says: − ÊÌUË eÌnM Ë ÊÌUË |ÎJM ÌÍ ’ ô Ñ æ å å í ä æ ä ì Ñ æ å å í ä æä ä æ ä yauma tabyaddu wujuhuñwwa taswaddu wujuhun ± ± − − On the day when some faces shall be white, and some faces shall be black.(3:107) The spiritual state of every person shall on that day become visible to all, and God also shall reveal Himself to the righteous in His full Glory on that day.In short, the spiritual states shall no more remain hidden but shall manifest themselves palpably.The third point of importance that the Holy Qur’an has described − in connection with the life after death is that the progress that can be made in that life is infinite.The Word of God says: BÄ» ÁÀMA FÄIi ÆÌ»Ì´Í ÈÃBÀÍBI Ë ÈÍfÍA ÅÎI Ó¨nÍ ÇiÌà ‘ ‘ ‘ ää æ ê æä äì ä ä æ å æ å ä æ ê ê ä æ ä ê ä æ ê æ ê æ ä ä æä Ð æ ä æ å å æ å jÍf³ ÕÓq ½· ¼§ ¹ÃA BÄ»j°«AË BÃiÌà ,  Ñ æ ê ä î æ ä é ê å Ð ä ä ì ê ô ää æ ê æ ä ä ä æ å nuruhum yas‘a baina aidihim wa bi aimanihim − − − − 469

Page 470

− yaqulunarabbana atmim lana nurana waghfirlana innaka ‘ala − − − − − − − − kulli shai-in qadir − Their light will run before them and on their right hands.They will say, 'Our Lord, perfect our light for us and forgive us; surely Thou hast power over all things.' (66:9) This unceasing desire for perfection shows clearly that progress in Paradise shall be endless....In short, the righteous will go on making progress and will never recede a step nor will they ever be deprived of those blessings.(Ataul Mujeeb Rashed: Review of Religions Vol.LXXXV, No.11, ± − − November 1990, pp 33-36) SALVATION Islam is the essence of all truth, and salvation is to fully submit to − the Will of God.Therefore, the Holy Qur’an is a perfect guide for − mankind.It requires faith in all the Prophets and the revelation that was vouchsafed to them.It is thus a universal possession and a perfect guide.Anyone who makes it the law of his life and conforms to it down to the last particular, beholds God in this very life.This is true salvation and there is no other salvation beside it.That is the perfect fulfillment of life here and in the Hereafter.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi writes about Salvation: as − "Salvation means that a person should commit himself wholly to God, and should offer himself as a sacrifice in the cause of God, and should prove his sincerity not only through his motive but also through righteous conduct.He who so comforts himself will have his recompense from God.Such people shall have no fear nor shall they grieve ( Holy Qur’an, 2:113 6: 163-164, 6: 154, 3:32)" , − (The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, pp.9-10, Published: 1996) − 470

Page 471

− HELL AND HEAVEN According to the Holy Qur’an, Hell and Heaven are both − reflections of a man's life, and are not something new that comes from outside.It is true that in the Hereafter they will be manifested physically, but they will be reflections of the spiritual conditions of man in this life.We do not conceive of Heaven as containing material trees, nor of Hell as full of brimstone and sulphur.According to Islamic teachings, Heaven and − Hell are the reflections of the actions that a person carries out in this world.(Ataul Mujeeb Rashed: Review of Religions Vol.LXXXV, No.11, ± − − November 1990, p36) Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II writes in his book, ra 'Invitation to ± ± − − ± Ahmadiyyat': ± "Disbelievers in God and enemies of His revealed guidance, unless forgiven out of His infinite Mercy, will stay in a place called Hell.Extremes of heat and cold will be the punishments awarded in this place, but the object will not be to give pain to the inmates, but to reform them.They will continue to suffer in the Hell until the Mercy of God, which encompasses all things, will encompass the evil-doers and their evil also.Then will the Promise of God be fulfilled, which the Holy Prophet sa announced as: ºjZM BJv»A ËfYA BÈί oλ ÆB¿k ÄÈU Ó¼§ ÓMBÍ ‘ Înà ‘ å êé ä å ä ì å æ ê ä ì Ñ ä ä ä æ ê ä æ ä Ñ ä ä ä ì ä ä Ð ä æ ê æ ä BÈIAÌIA ä ä ä æ ä ya’ti 'ala jahannama zamanun laisa fiha ahaduñwwa − − − − − ± nasimussaba tuharriku abwabaha − ± ± − ± − − "A time will come when no one will be left in Hell; winds will blow and the windows and doors of Hell will make a rattling noise on account of 471

Page 472

− the blowing winds." (Tafsirul Malammut Tanzil under the verse of the Holy − − − Qur’an: 11:107) − (Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, 1980, pp 10-11) ± Hadrat Khalifatul Masih IV writes: aba ± ± − − ± "The concept of Hell and Heaven in Islam is completely different − from the normally held view.Hell and Heaven are not two different places occupying separate time and space.According to the Holy Qur’an, the Heaven covers the entire − universe.PÌÀn»A BÈyj§ ÒÄU Ë ¸Ii Å¿ Ñj°¬¿ Ó»A A̧iBm Ë ‘ å Ð Ð ì ä å æ ä î ì ä ä æ å é ê ì æ éê î ä ê æ ä Ð ê æ Ø å ê ä ä ~iÜAË å ö æ æ ä ä wa sari‘u ila maghfira timmirrabbikum wa jannatin ‘ardu − − − ± hassamawatu walard − − ± And vie with one another in asking for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a Paradise whose price is the heavens and the earth.(3:134) ÕFÀn»A ~j¨· BÈyj§ ÒÄU Ë ¸Ii Å¿ Ñj°¬¿ Ó»A AÌ´IBm ‘ ê ä ì ê æ ä ä ä å æ ä î ì ä ä æ å é ê ì æ éê î ä ê æ ä Ð ê æ Ø å ê ä ~iÜAË ê ö æ æ ä ä sabiqu ila maghfira timmirrabbikum wa jannatin ‘arduha ka − − − ± − ‘ardissama’i wal ard ± − ± Vie with one another in seeking forgiveness from your Lord and for a paradise, whose span is like the span of the heaven and the earth.(57:22).472

Page 473

− Someone asked the Holy Prophet 'If paradise occupies the whole sa extent of the Heavens and the earth, then where will Hell be?' He replied: 'At the same place, but you do not have the faculty to understand their coexistence.' That is to say in ordinary human terms, they may seem to occupy the same time-space, but in reality because they belong to different dimensions, so they will coexist without interfering and inter-relating with each other....[Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II writes in the commentary of the above ra ± ± − − ± verse of the Holy Qur’an (3:134): − "Ard means, (1) price or value of a thing in form other than money; ± (2) breadth or width; vastness (‘Aqrab).....The verse signifies that Paradise will comprise both Heavens and earth, i.e., the believers will be in Paradise both in this life and in the life to come.A well-known saying of the Holy Prophet throws interesting light on the nature of Paradise and sa Hell, When asked "If Paradise encompasses both the Heavens and the earth, where is the Hell," the Prophet replied: sa "Where is the night when the day comes" (Kathir) − The Holy Prophet is further reported to have said that the smallest sa reward of Paradise will be as great as the space between Heaven and earth.This also shows that Paradise is a spiritual state and not a particular physical place.] (The Holy Qur’an with Translation and Short Commentary, 1994, p 162) −...A healthy soul which has acquired a taste of good things, when brought into close proximity of the objectives of its choice, will draw even greater pleasure than before.All that a healthy spiritual man was craving was nearness to God and His attributes and to imitate Divine virtues.In Heaven, such a healthy soul would begin to see and conceive and feel nearness of the attributes of God like never before.They, according to the Promised Messiah and Mahdi , would not remain merely spiritual values, as − 473

Page 474

− but would acquire ethereal forms and shapes, which the newly born Heavenly spirit would enjoy with the help of the erstwhile soul, which would function as the body.That again would be a matter of relativity.The converse will be true of Hell, in the sense that an unhealthy soul would create an unhealthy body for the new soul of the Hereafter.And the same factors which provide pleasure to the healthy soul would provide torture and deep suffering for this unhealthy entity.........In short, each individual creates his own Hell or his own Heaven, and in accordance with his own state, each Heaven differs from the other person's Heaven, and each Hell differs from the other person's Hell, though apparently they occupy the same space and time in otherworldly dimensions.What happens to a man's soul between the time of his carnal death and his resurrection on the Day of Judgment.The Holy Prophet is sa reported to have said: 'After our death windows will open up in the grave; for the pious people, windows open from Heaven, and for the wicked people they open towards Hell.' However, if we were to open up a grave, we would not find any windows! So literal acceptance of these words will not convey the true meaning of this subject.It is impossible that the Holy Prophet should sa ever misinform us, hence there he had to be speaking metaphorically.Had it not been so, then every time we dig up a grave, we should find windows, either opening into Hell, or letting in the fragrant and pleasant air of Paradise.But we witness neither of these.So what do the Holy Prophet's sa words mean? The grave is actually an intermediary phase of existence between this life and the life to come.Here, spiritual life will progress gradually through many stages until it reaches its ultimate destiny.Then by the Command of Allah, a trumpet will be blown, and the final spiritual form − will come into being.In this interim period, different souls would pass through a semblance of Heaven or Hell before reaching their final stage of 474

Page 475

− perfection, fit and ready to be raised into a completely transformed entity.The Holy Qur’an illustrates this concept beautifully: − ÑfYAË o°Ä· ÜA ¸R¨I Ü Ë ¸´¼a B¿ ‘ ‘ î È ä ê ì î æ ä ä ì ê æ å å æ ä ä ä æ å å æ ä ä ma khalqukum wa la ba‘thukum illa ka nafsiñwwahidah − − − − ± Your creation and your resurrection are only like the creation and resurrection of a single being.(31:29)...The Question now arises is: Will the soul also progress as does the child in the mother's womb, and will it pass through all these stages? The answer to this question can be found in the above verse of the Holy Qur’an : ' ' - Your ma khalqukum wa la ba‘thukum illa ka nafsiñwwahidah − − − − − ± first creation and your second creation will be identical.To understand the second creation, we need to understand the way a baby takes shape in a mother's womb.These forms apparently only take nine months to develop, while in reality the creation of life is spread over billions of years.......The creation of life underwent a long period of development to reach the form that we witness in nine months.This sheds light on the fact that the period of our first creation was very long, and our second creation will also span a long period.By studying these nine months we can learn something of the billions of years of the history of life, and about the evolution of souls in the next world.It is perhaps safe to infer that the time from the early origin of life to the ultimate creation of man, would perhaps be needed once again for the development of the soul after the death.......What Allah is telling us is that we won't find ourselves being − judged the very next day after we die.Instead, judgment will take place in such a distant future that our previous lives will seem like a matter of a few seconds to us, like a small point a long way away.475

Page 476

− In short, man's resurrection is described as a transformation that he cannot envisage, and an event that is as certain as his existence here on earth.All these subjects have been explained in detail in the Holy Qur’an." − (An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, pp 46-53) − ± ± − ± − ± JINN It is said, and it is believed, that prior to his fall Satan belonged to the category of angels.The Holy Qur’an rejects this view and presents − Satan as possessing a fiery nature, thus belonging to such forms of life as are created from fire, for example the.jinn (An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, p 12) − ± ± − ± − ± Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV writes about the aba ± ± − ± − ± − − ± jinn: "Arabic lexicon mentions the following as the possible meaning of the word.It literally means anything which has the connotation of jinn concealment, invisibility, seclusion and remoteness.It also has the connotation of thick shades and dark shadows.That is why the word ' (From the same root word) is employed by the Qur’an to denote jannah' − Paradise, which would be full of thick, heavily shaded gardens.The word jinn is also applicable to snakes which habitually remain hidden from common view and live a life secluded from other animals in rock crevices and earthen holes.It is also applied to women who observe segregation and to such chieftains as keep their distance from the common people.The inhabitants of remote, inaccessible mountains are likewise referred to as jinn.Hence, anything which lies beyond the reach of common sight or is invisible to the unaided naked eye, could well be described by this word.This proposition is fully endorsed by a tradition of the Holy Prophet in which he strongly admonishes people not to use dried up sa lumps of dung or bones of dead animals for cleaning themselves after attending to the call of nature because they are food for the.As we jinn use toilet paper now, at that time people used lumps of earth, stones or any 476

Page 477

− dry article close at hand to clean themselves.We can safely infer therefore, that what he referred to as was nothing other than some jinn invisible organisms, which feed on rotting bones, dung etc.Remember that the concept of bacteria and viruses was not till then born.No man had even the vaguest idea about the existence of such invisible tiny creatures.Amazingly, it is to these that the Holy Prophet referred.The Arabic sa language could offer him no better, more appropriate expression than the word.jinn Another important observation made by the Qur’an is in relation to − the creation of the They are described as having been born out of jinn.blasts of fire (From the cosmos).ÌÀn»A iBÃ Å¿ ½J³ Å¿ ÉÄ´¼a ÆFV»AË ,’ ê æ å ì ê ì æ ê å æ ä æ ê å Ð æ ä ä ì ä æ ä wal ja anna khalaqnahu min qablu minnarissamum − − − − And the Jinn We had created earlier from the fire of blazing winds.(15:28) Here the adjective used to describe the nature of the particular fire from which the were created is which means a blazing fire jinns Samum, − or a blast that has no smoke.We find a similar statement in another Qur’anic verse: − iBÃ Å¿ XiB¿ Å¿ ÆFV»A μ¼aË , ô î ì æ ê é î ê ì æ ê ê ì ä æ ä ä ä ä wa khalaqal ja anna mimmari jimminnar − − − And the Jinn He created from the flame of fire (55:16) Having established that the word applies here to some type of jinn bacterial organisms, let us again turn our attention to the verses quoted above that speak of the as having been created out of fire.The prime jinn 477

Page 478

− candidates for the application of these verses seem to be such minute organisms as drew the energy for their existence directly from hot blazes of lightening - - and cosmic radiation.Samum − Dickerson inadvertently agrees with the Qur’anic view when he − observes that the most ancient organisms: "..would have lived on the energy of lightening and ultraviolet radiation.." (Dickerson, R.E.(September 1978) Chemical Evolution and the Origin of Life, Scientific American, p 80) This scenario of cosmic radiation is not specifically mentioned in the work of other scientists in their search for the pre-biotic organisms.But they too have corroborated the idea that whatever organisms existed before biotic evolution must have drawn their energy directly from heat.Of all the categories of bacteria classified as the most ancient, only ' ' and ' were mentioned by previous generations of prokaryotes 'eukaryotes scientists.However, that conclusion proved to be hastily drawn one, according to Karl R.Woese and his colleagues.They observed: 'Simply because there are two types of cells at the microscopic level it does not follow that there must be only two types at the molecular level.' (Woese, K.R.(June, 1981), Archaebacteria, Scientific American, p 104)' For the benefit of the lay reader the difference between the two bacteria known as the ' ' and ', is as follows: prokaryotes 'eukaryotes It relates to the presence or absence of a nucleus in them.The ' ' type of bacteria, despite having a well-defined cell prokaryotes membrane, have no distinct nucleus.The ' on the other hand, eukaryotes possess well-defined and well-developed nuclei occupying the center of each cell.478

Page 479

− It was considered that these were the only two ancient forms of bacteria which gave birth to others and evolved into organisms which could be referred to as the ancestors of life.However, Woese published the findings of his pioneer research in , June 1981, Scientific American claiming that could be rightly considered as the earliest archaebacteria form of organisms.He and his colleagues informed the scientific community that they were a third distinct line which preceded all others.Thus, it is they who should be entitled as the most ancient ancestors of life.Woese and his collaborators continued to pour strong evidence into this discovery, and as the ice began to thaw, according to Woese: 'Although a few biologists still dispute our interpretation, the idea that archaebacteria present a separate grouping at the highest level is becoming generally accepted.'' (Woese, C.R.(June, 1981), Archaebacteria, Scientific American, p 114)' The organisms referred to as in the Holy Qur’an seem to fit Jinn − the above description.But, though scientists unanimously describe these bacteria as possessing the potential of drawing their energy from heat, they are not mentioned as having been originally created directly by the cosmic rays and blasts of lightening by any scientist other than Dickerson.The rest however, continue to unveil more mysteries with further research.'...in undersea vents, hot springs, the Dead Sea, and salt pans, and have even adapted to refuse tips.' (The Hutchinson Dictionary of Science (1993), Helicon Publishing Ltd., Oxford.p 37) On the issue of antiquity, though Woese and his colleagues have no doubt that the are the prime claimants.According to some archaebacteria scientists they may have evolved from some unknown parenthood simultaneously.Whether the other bacteria evolved out of them or not is irrelevant to the discussion.The relevant point is that all forms of most ancient bacteria draw their energy directly from heat.This is a tribute of no small 479

Page 480

− magnitude to the Qur’anic declaration made over fourteen hundred years − ago: ÌÀn»A iBÃ Å¿ ½J³ Å¿ ÉÄ´¼a ÆFV»AË , ’ ê æ å ì ê ì æ ê å æ ä æ ê å Ð æ ä ä ì ä æ ä wal ja anna khalaqna hu min qablu minnarissamum − − − − And the Jinn We had created earlier from the fire of blazing winds.(15:28) According to the accepted scientific studies, direct heat from fire had to play a vital role in the creation and maintenance of pre-biotic organisms.This, in fact was the only mode of transfer of energy for the consumption of organized forms of existence during this Era." (Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth, Hadrat Mirza Tahir ± ± − ± − Ahmad, pp 363-367) ± JUSTICE If one desires to investigate with open mind the root cause of all evils, whether social, political, economic or moral, one will always find that the disregard for justice lies at the heart of all such evils.Hence, the world cannot become an abode of peace until man adheres to justice.Justice is central to the survival of humankind.This is because when injustice, tyranny and oppression take hold, certain social evils are born and these have the power to destroy whole nations.If man is not just in his obligations to God, then it is quite unlikely that he will be just to his fellow human beings -- the creation of God.It must be remembered that no one can trifle with the dictates of justice without exposing himself to the danger of falling victim to the punishing consequences of his folly.Such punishment is not related to the wrath of God, as if descending from Heaven, but is a natural outcome of the 480

Page 481

− violation of the laws of Nature.None is above the dominion of natural laws....A scan of the history of wars, would establish that the underlying cause of every disruption of peace is, without fail, the violation of the principles of justice.(Absolute Justice, Kindness and Kinship, pp 99-100) Islamic teachings with regards to Justice are as follows: − ¾f¨»BI AÌÀ¸ZM ÆA pBÄ»A ÅÎI NÀ¸Y AgA Ë ‘ ê È æ ä æ ê æ å å æ ä æ ä ê ì ä æä æ å æ ä ä ä ê ä wa idha hakamtum bainannasi an tahkumu bil ‘adl − ± − ± − And that, when you judge between men, you judge with justice (4:59) ¼§ Ì» Ë É¼» ÕEfÈq ¡n´»BI Åο̳ AÌÃÌ· AÌÄ¿A ÅÍh»A BÈÍBÍ  ê ä æ ä ä ê Õ ê ä ä ä å ê æ ê æ ê ä æ ê Õ ä æ å æ å æ å ä Ð ä æ ê ì ä í ä ê ÅÎIj³ ÜAË ÅÍf»A Ì»A ËA ¸n°ÃA ‘ ä ô æê ä æ æ ä ä ê æ ä ê ä æ ê ä æ å ê å æä ya ayyu halladhina amanu kunu qawwamina bilqisti − − − − − − − − ± shuhada’a lillahi wa lau ‘ala anfusikum awil walidaini wal − − − − − aqrabin − O ye who believe! Be strict in observing justice, being witnesses for the sake of Allah, even though it be against yourselves or your against − parents and kindred.(4:136) Lj³A ÌÇ AÌ»f§A AÌ»f¨M ÜA Ó¼§ ̳ ÆBÄq ¸Ä¿jVÍ ÜË ’ ‘ å ä æä ä å æ å ê æê È æ å ê æ ä ì ä ê î æ ä å Ð ä ä æ å ì ä ê æ ä ä ä ÔÌ´N¼» Ð æ ì ê wa la yajri mannakum shana anu qaumin ‘ala alla ta'dilu i‘dilu − − − − − − huwa aqrabu littaqwa − 481

Page 482

− And let not a people's enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice.Be just, that is nearer to righteousness.(5:9) always Ü É¼»A ÆA AËfN¨M Ü Ë ¸Ã̼MB´Í ÅÍh»A ɼ»A ½ÎJm Ó¯ A̼MB³ Ë ‘ ä ä Õ ì ê È æ å ä æ ä ä ä æ å ä æ åê ä å ä æ ê ì ê Õ ê æê ä æ ê æ åê ä ä ÅÍfN¨À»A KZÍ , ä æ ê ä æ å æ í ê å wa qatilu fi sabililla hilladhina yuqatilunakum wa la ta‘tadu − − − − − − − − − − innallaha la yuhibbul mu‘tadin − − ± − And fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight against you, but − do not transgress.Surely, Allah loves not the transgressors.(2:191) − BÈ» \ÄUB¯ ¼n¼» AÌZÄU ÆA Ë ‘ ä ä æ ä æ ä ê æ ì ê æ å ä ä æ ê ä wa in janahu lissalmi fajnah laha ± − ± − And if they incline towards peace, incline thou also towards it.(8:62) We believe that Islam is the final law.Islam presents a teaching not − − influenced by place or time, which is amply illustrated by its teaching.The Qur’an says: − ɼ»A Ó¼§ ÊjUB¯ \¼uA Ë B°§ ÅÀ¯ BȼR¿ Ò Îm Ò Îm AÚlU Ë ( s s È ê Õ ä ä å æ ä ä ä ä æ ä ä ä ä æ ä ä ô ä å æ éê Ñ Ú é ê ä î Ú é ê ä å ê ä ä ÅÎÀ¼¤»A KZÍ Ü ÉÃA , ( ä æ ê ê Õ í ê å ä ì ê wa jaza’u sayyi’atin sayyi’atummithluha faman ‘afa wa aslaha − − − ± ± fa ajruhu ‘alallah innahu la yuhibbuzzalimin − − − − ± ± ± − − And the recompense of an injury is an injury the like thereof; but whoso 482

Page 483

− forgives and brings about reformation, his reward is with Allah.his act − Surely, He loves not the wrongdoers.(42:41) Islam thus combines the best features of both the earlier teachings, − with the vital addition that forgiveness is commended provided it is likely to result in an improvement and the correction of the defaulter, that being the real objective.If not, then punishment is held to be necessary, but not exceeding the degree to which one is wronged.Surely, this guidance is in full conformity with human nature and is as practicable today as when it was revealed fourteen centuries ago.(Distinctive Features of Islam, pp 10-12) − EQUALITY OF MANKIND Muslims believe that the Holy Prophet of Islam was sent as 'a sa − Mercy for all the worlds', and that he brought a final religion for all humanity.One of the fundamental teachings of Islam and one which every − Muslim cultivates in his heart is that of brotherhood and equality of human beings.Allah says in the Holy Qur’an: − − ËBĮq ¸Ä¼¨U Ë ÓRÃA Ëj·g Å¿ ¸Ä´¼a BÃA pBÄ»A BÈÍBÍ ‘ ‘ ì í æ å å æ å Ð æ ä ä ä Ð æå ì î ä ä æ éê æ å Ð æ ä ä ì ê å ì ä í ä Ð Ø Î¼§ ɼ»A ÆA ¸´MA ɼ»A fħ ¸¿j·A ÆA A̯iB¨N» ½ FJ³ ‘ ‘ ‘ r Ñ æ ê ä ä Õ ì ê È æ å Ð æä ê Õ ä æ ê æ å ä ä æ ä ì ê È æ å ä ä äê ä Ó ê ä ä jÎJa , Ñ æê ä ya ayyuhannasu inna khalaqnakummin dhakariñwwa untha − − − − − wa ja‘alnakum shu‘ubañwwa qaba’ila li ta‘arafu inna − − − − − akramakum ‘indallahi atqakum innallaha ‘alimun khabir − − − − − O mankind, We have created you from male and female; and We have made you into clans and tribes that you may recognize one another.Verily, the most honorable among you, in the sight of Allah, is he who is − 483

Page 484

− the most righteous among you.Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware.− (49:14) Islam totally rejects racism in any shape or form.Islam condemns − − distinctions based on nationality, color or social class.There can be no master-race, aristocracy or priesthood, the most noble in the eyes of God Almighty being the most pious.The brotherhood of man in Islam has − always been a living fact, not an idle theory.Islam is unique in that it requires physical expression of − brotherhood.In the daily Prayer, Muslims must stand shoulder to shoulder, indifferent to the status or color of the person next to them.There is no greater physical example of equality than the when all Muslims wear Hajj ± the same dress and circuit the in unison.Ka bah ‘ The Holy Prophet of Islam in his farewell address said: sa − "All men are children of Adam and Adam was created of clay.The Arab has no superiority over the non-Arab, nor has the non-Arab any superiority over the Arab, nor do the whites have any preference over the dark colored people, save of course, through righteousness, honesty, integrity, learning and other intrinsic qualities." (Sihah Sittah, Tabari, Hisham and Khamis) ± ± ± ± − − − ETHICS As regards 'Ethics', Islam believes every man to be born pure, not − in sin.Each of us is responsible before God for our actions, and we cannot be saved by any sort of atonement by a third party.It is up to us to choose good rather than evil and to work out our salvation through faith, prayer and charity.Piety and virtue do not mean forsaking the lawful pleasures of this earth and falling into monastic asceticism.We ought to lead active, healthy and useful lives in which qualities such as kindness, chastity, honesty, meekness, mercy, courage, truthfulness, patience, politeness, and cleanliness will be uppermost, and faults like cruelty, immorality, deceit, pride, cowardice, avarice, slander, and hardness of heart will be avoided.484

Page 485

− (Why Islam, Islam International Publications,London, UK, pp 23-24) − − 485

Page 486

− 21 ISLAMIC LAWS OF INHERITANCE − God Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: − KÎvà ÕFnļ»Ë ÆÌIj³ÜAË Æf»Ì»A ºjM BÀ¿ KÎvà ¾BUj¼» Ñ æ ê ä ê ä éê ê ä ä ð æ å ä æ æ ä ä ê Ð ê Ð æ ä ä ä ì éê Ñ æ ê ä ê ä é ê ê BJÎvà jR· ËA ÉÄ¿ ½³ BÀ¿ ÆÌIj³ÜAË Æf»Ì»A ºjM BÀ¿ í æ ê ä ä È å ä æ ä å æ ê ì ä ì ê ä æ å ä æ æ ä ä ê Ð ê Ð æ ä ä ä ì éê ByËj°¿ , í æ å æ ì lirrijali nasibummimma tarakal walidani walaqrabuna wa − ± − − − − − linnisa’i nasibummimma tarakal walidani wal aqrabuna − ± − − − − − mimma qalla minhu au kathur nasibammafruda − ± − − ± For men is a share of that which parents and near relations leave; and for women is a share of that which parents and near relations leave, whether it be little or much -- a determined share.(4:8) When someone dies and leaves some money or property, this is called his or her (The estate of a deceased person).According to "Tarkah" Islamic Law, first of all any loans of the deceased must be paid and if he − has bequeathed then the bequest must be paid.After payment of the loan and the bequest, the remaining portion should be divided between the near relations of the deceased according to what is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an: − Å· ÆB¯ ÅÎÎRà A ¥Y ½R¿ j·h¼» ·eÜËA Ó¯ ɼ»A ¸ÎuÌÍ j ‘ ‘ ì å æ ê ä ô ê æä ä æ å é ê ä å æ ê ê ä ì ê æ å ê ä æ ä æ ê Ø å Õ å å æ ê æ å 486

Page 487

− Bȼ¯ ÑfYAË OÃB· ÆA Ë ºjM B¿ BR¼Q Åȼ¯ ÅÎNÄQA ¶Ì¯ ÕBnà ä ä ä í ä ê ä æ ä ä æ ê ä ä ô ä ä ä ä åå ì å ä ä ê æä ä æ ä æ ä í Ø ä ê É» ÆB· ÆA ºjM BÀ¿ pfn»A BÀÈÄ¿ fYAË ½¸» ÉÍÌIÜË ±vÄ»A ( ä ä ä æ ê ä ä ä ì ê å å í ä å æ éê î ê ä é ê å ê ê æ ä ä ê ä ä å È æ é ê É» ÆB· ÆB¯ S¼R»A ɿݯ ÊÌIA ÉQiË Ëf»Ë É» Å¸Í » ÆB¯ f»Ë ( ( ( ‘ Ø ä ä ä æ ê ä ô å å í ê éêê å ä å Ð ä ä Ø ä ê ä ì Ñ ä ä ì æ å ä æ ì æ ê ä Ñ ô ä ä Ë ·ËFIA ÅÍe ËA FÈI ÏuÌÍ ÒÎuË f¨I Å¿ pfn»A ɿݯ ÑÌaA ‘ ä æ å Û ä Ð î È æ ä æ ä ä ê æ ê æ í î ì ê ä ê æ ä æ ë ê å å í ê é êê å ä Ñ ä æê ɼ»A ÆA ɼ»A Å¿ ÒzÍj¯ B¨°Ã Á¸» Lj³A ÈÍA ÆËifM Ü ·ËFÄIA ‘ ‘ ä Õ ì ê ê È Õ ä éê í ä æ ê ä È í æ ä æ å ä å ä æä æ å í ä ä æ å æ ä ä æ å Û ä æ ä BÀθY BÀμ§ ÆB· , í æ ê ä í æ ê ä ä ä yusikumullahu fi auladikum lidhdhakari mithlu hazzil untha − ± − − − − ± yaini fa in kunna nisa’an fauqasnataini falahunna thulutha ma − − − tarak wa in kanat wahidatan falahannisf wali abawaihi likulli − − ± ± wahidimminhu massudusu mimma taraka in kana lahu walad − − − − fa illam yakullahu waladuñwwa warithahu abawahu fali ummi − − − hiththuluth fa in kana lahu ikhwatun fali ummi hissudusu mim − − ba‘di wasiyyatiñyyusi biha au dain aba’ukum wa abna’ukum ± − ± − − − − − la tadruna ayyuhum aqrabu lakum naf‘a farida tammi nallah − − − − ± − innallaha kana‘aliman hakima − − − − Allah commands you concerning your children: a male shall have as − much as the share of two females; but if there be females only, numbering more than two, then they shall have two-thirds of what the deceased leaves; and if there be one, she shall have the half.And his parents shall have each of them a sixth of the inheritance, if he have a child; but if he have no child and his parents be his heirs, then his mother shall have a third; and if he have brothers and sisters, then his mother shall have a sixth, after any bequests he may have the payment of bequeathed or of debt.Your fathers and your children, you know not which of them is nearest to you in benefit.fixing is from This of portions Allah.Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, Wise.(4:12) − − 487

Page 488

− 1.The following are considered to be the heir of a deceased person according to Islamic : Shari‘ah − − Son; Father; Grandfather; Brother; Nephew; Paternal Uncle; Cousin; Husband; Daughter; Mother; Grandmother; Sister; Wife.2.A killer will under no circumstances be eligible to get a share from the person whom he has killed.3.If there is no one who can be considered heir of the deceased person then the will go to (All Tarkah Baitul Mal − of the financial book-keeping is the responsibility Jama'at's − of this department of Pakistan.Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± Moreover, all the information regarding paid by Chanda Jama'at members comes to this department where a − systematic record is kept).4.The dependents of the deceased person will get one of these portions based according to different conditions: One half; two third; one third; one fourth; one sixth; one eight.(Dini Syllabus for the Training of 'Nou Muba‘in', (in Urdu), − − − − − Nazarat Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, p 57) ± − − 488

Page 489

− ISLAMIC CALENDARS − The Hijri Qamri Calendar − − One of the Islamic calendars is called or calendar.It Hijri Hegirian − − starts from the day of the (Emigration) of the Holy Prophet from Hijrah sa Mecca to Medina.It is based upon the cycles of the moon rather than upon those of the sun, on which are based the Julian and Gregorian calendars.The Calendar year consists of twelve lunar months (some of Hijri − twenty-nine and some of thirty days) their lengths vary because of the need to round out a year, otherwise a year is only 354 days, 8 hours, and 48 minutes long.The annual holidays thus advance about ten days each year so that in thirty-six years, , the month of fasting, moves around Ramadan ± − the entire solar year, sometimes taking place in winter, sometimes in summer.The took place in September of 622 (The exact date is not Hijrah known with certainty); the first day, 1 , of the year in progress Muharram ± coincided with 16 July 622, which was thus the first day of the first year of the calendar (Since the Islamic day begins at sunset the evening Hegirian of the day before was also 1 ).The names of the months in the Muharram ± Islamic calendar are as follows: Hijri Qamri − − − 1.Muharram (The sacred month; the first month of ± the Islamic Calendar − 2.Saffar (The month which is void) ± 3.Rabi‘ul-Awwal (The first spring) − 4.Rabi uth-Thani (The second spring) − − − 5.Jamadi ul Awwal (The first month of dryness) ‘ − − 6.Jamadi ul Thani (The second month of dryness) ‘ − − − − 7.Rajab (The revered month) 8.Sha ban (The month of division) ‘ − 9.Ramadan (The month of great heat; the month ± − in which the Holy Qur’an started to − be revealed, and the month in which Muslims fast) 10.Shawwal (The month of hunting; on the first − day of this month is ‘Idul fitr − ± 489

Page 490

− celebrated) 11.Dhul Qa dah (The month of rest) ‘ − 12.Dhul Hijjah (The month in which the is Hajj − ± ± performed and is ‘Idul adhiyya − ± ± celebrated) (The Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, Cyril Glasse, Stacey − International, London, UK, 1989) The Hijri Shamsi Calendar − − In 1938, at the occasion of Annual Gathering, during his Sayr-i-Ruhani speech, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II stated that we should ra − ± − ± ± − − adopt an Islamic Calendar, which is based upon the cycles of the sun rather − those of the moon.This way, we will be able to avoid use of the Christian Era Calendar.In January 1939, Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II formed a ra ± ± − − committee for the preparation of a Calendar.In January 1940, Hijri Shamsi − − Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II accepted the committee's recommendations, ra ± ± − − and a beautiful Calendar was published by Hijri Shamsi Nazarat − − ± − Da‘watu-Tabligh Hijri Qamri Hijri Shamsi.The Calendar had , and the − − − − − Christian days, months and year.The significance of the Hijri Shamsi − − Calendar, started by Hadrat Khalifatul Masih II , is like the C.E.Calendar, ra ± ± − − in which the year starts in January.Earlier, a Ca lender was Hijri Shamsi − − started during Caliphate in which the year started from March ‘Uthmania − instead of January.The significance of the names of the months used in the Islamic calendar is that these reflect various significant Hijri Shamsi − − − events in Islamic history.The year 2002 AD corresponds to 1422-1423 AH − (After the ) and 1381 HS ( ).The names of the months Hijrah Hijri Shamsi − − in the Calendar are as follows: Hijri Shamsi − − 1.Sulh (January) ± ± 2.Tabligh (February) − 3.Amman (March) − 4.Shahadat (April) − 5.Hijrat (May) 6.Ehsan (June) − 7.Wafa (July) − 8.Zahur (August) ± − 9.Tabuk (September) − 10.Ikha (October) − 11.Nabuwwat (November) 12.Fatah (December) 490

Page 491

− GLOSSARY OF URDU AND ARABIC WORDS − Abi: Father of.− Abu: Father of.− AD: Anno Domimi, The year of the Lord, Denoting Christian Era.Adhan: The Islamic call to Prayer.− − Afsar: In-charge.AH: After Hijrah.Ahadith: Plural of Hadith.± − − ± − Ahlussunnah wal-Jama'at: The people of the Sunnah and the − Consensus.Ahrar: An Anti-Ahmadiyya Movement.± − ± 'Alaihissalam (as): Peace be on him.− Allah: The proper name of God.− Al-amin: The trustworthy.− Al-sadiq: The truthful.± − ‘Amal: Practice.Amanat: Entrusted thing; Deposit.− Amarat: Office of a Commander or a Chief − Amin: So be it − − Amir: Commander, Head − Amur-i-'Ama: Social Services.− − Ansar: The Muslims at Medina, who helped the ± − Holy Prophet and other Muslims at the time sa of migration were called or Helpers; Ansar ± − members of Majlis Ansarullah.± − − ‘Aqiqa: A feast usually arranged on the seventh day − of birth of a child.‘Arafat: The name given to a Plain or Valley near − Mecca where pilgrims halt in the latter portion of the ninth day of.It is Dhul Hijjah ± nine miles from Mecca, and the halt of the pilgrims at this place forms one of the principal ceremonies of the Pilgrimage.491

Page 492

− Arakin Khususi: Special members of an organization of − − ± − ± − Ahmadiyya Community approved by ± Khalifatul Masih.− − ± Assalamu ‘alaikum: Peace be on you.− Atfalul Ahmadiyya: Children of Ahmadiyyat.± − ± ± Ayah: A verse of the Holy Qur’an.− − Ayat: Verses of the Holy Qur’an.− − − Ayyaduhullahu ta‘ala − − binasrihil ‘aziz: May Allah support him with His Mighty ± − − Help.Badihat: Self-evident truths − − Bahishti Maqbarah: Heavenly Graveyard; Graveyard of the − Musis.− ± − Bai‘at: Oath of allegiance to a religious leader; Initiation at the hands of a Prophet or his Caliph.Baitud Du‘a’: Prayer room; A small room attached to − Masjid Mubarak, Qadian used by Promised − Messiah and Mahdi for praying to God as − Almighty.Baitul ‘Atiq: Another name for Holy (The Old Ka‘bah − House).Baitul Fikr: Place of contemplation; A small room attached to Masjid Mubarak, Qadian used by − Promised Messiah and Mahdi for his as − literary work.Baitul Karamah: An institution for the elderly in Rabwah, − Pakistan.(Like a Nursing Home).Baitul Mal: The financial book-keeping department of − the Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya.± ± Baitullah: House of God − Bani: A tribe or clan.− Banu: Sons of; from the progeny of; tribe of.− Barzakh: An intermediate stage.Becca/Bekka: The real name of Mecca, its ' having 'mim − been changed into.bay 492

Page 493

− Bid‘at: Undesirable innovations.Bin: Son of Buyut: Houses − Chanda: Monetary contributions; Donations Chanda 'Am: Regular subscription − Chanda Wasiyyat: Will subscription.± Daftar: Office; Phase.Darbar: Royal audience; Court of Indian or British − rulers.Darul Qada: Department of Justice.− ± − Darweshan-i-Qadian: Ahmadis in Qadian to safeguard the Holy sites and − ± − institutions of the At the time of Jama'at.− partition of Indian subcontinent into India and Pakistan, 313 Ahmadis were left in ± − Qadian.Dhabiha: Animal slaughtered for food according to − ± Islamic tenets.− Dhihanat wa − Sehat Jismani: Intellectual and physical health.± ± − − Dhikri Ilahi: Remembrance of Allah.− − − Dhunnurain: t The one with two lights; he title of Hadrat − ± ± ‘Uthman.ra − Diafat: Hospitality.± − Du‘a’: Prayer; Supplication.− Durud: Invocation of blessings upon the Holy − Prophet of Islam sa.− Fard Kifayah: A collective obligation on all the Muslims of ± − a locality.Fard Prayers: The Prayers enjoined by Allah.± − Fidyah: Feeding of a poor person or payment of cash by someone who is able to fast during Ramadan only with a great difficulty.± − Fiqh: Islamic jurisprudence.− Fitrana: Specified alms to be given at the ‘Idul fitr.± − − ± Fivers: Five Imam Shi'ites Sect.− Ghair muqallidin: Non-imitators or not attached to tradition.− 493

Page 494

− Ghani: Generous; Self sufficient.− Ghutti: First-ever dose to new born infant.− − Hadith: Sayings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad ; sa ± − ± A basic source for Islamic law and customs − after the Holy Qur’an.− Hadith-i-Qudsi: Revelation of the Holy Prophet other than sa ± − − the revelation of the Holy Qur’an.− Hadrat: His Holiness.± ± Hafiz: The one who has memorized the whole ± − ± Qur’an.− Hajj: Pilgrimage to the Holy in Mecca, Ka‘bah ± Arabia; also known as the fifth pillar of Islam.− Hajjatul Wida‘: The last Pilgrimage of the Holy Prophet.sa ± − Hajj-i-Badl: Hajj performed by someone else on behalf ± ± of a person who due to illness cannot perform , but has deep desire to perform Hajj ± Hajj.± Hajri Aswad: The black stone embedded in one corner of ± the building.Khana Ka‘bah − Halal: Lawful.± − Haq Mehr: The money a husband either gives or ± promises to give to his wife.The amount is announced at the time of.Nikah − ± Haram: Unlawful.± − Hijrah: The migration of the Holy Prophet from sa Mecca to Medina.Hudur: ss Your Holiness; His Holine.± ± − ‘Id: s A Muslim feast day; I lamic celebration at − − the end of Ramadan and at the conclusion of ± − Pilgrimage.'Iddat: Waiting period of a widow or a divorced woman.‘Id Gah: Special site designated for ‘Id Prayers.− − − ‘Idul adhiyya: The Islamic festival commemorating the − ± ± − 494

Page 495

− obedience to God of Prophet Ibrahim and as − − his son Prophet Ishmael (Festival of as Sacrifice).‘Idul fitr: The Islamic festival concluding the fasting − ± − of the month of Ramadan.± − Ihram: A dress born by pilgrims while performing ± − Hajj or ‘Umrah.± Ijtima‘: Gathering; Gathering of members of an − organization.Ilah: The One who is worshipped.− Ima’illah: Maids of Allah.− − − Imam: Leader; the person who leads a − congregational Prayer service.Imam Mahdi: The Guided Leader.− − ‘Iman: Belief.− − Injil: (Gospel): given to Prophet Jesus Christ.as − Isha‘at: Publication.− Ishtih r: a Public notice.− Islam: Peace and submission.− ‘Istikharah Seeking God's support and guidance − through a formal prayer and worship.Ithar: Self sacrifice for the welfare of others.− − I‘tikaf: Retirement to a mosque for a continuing − prayer during the last ten days of Ramadan.± − Ja'idad: Property.− − Jalali: The Majestic aspect.− − Jalsa Salana: Annual Convention; Annual Gathering.− − Jama'at : Community, Organization.− Jamali:.The gentler or amiable aspect − − Jami‘a: A missionary teaching institute; Higher − Seminary Jamratul ‘Aqba: One of the pilars representing Satan, which is stoned during.Hajj ± Jamratul ‘Ula: , One of the pilars representing Satan which − is stoned during Hajj.± Jamratul Wasta: , One of the pilars representing Satan which ± 495

Page 496

− is stoned during Hajj.± Janaza Gah A funeral place; Funeral Home.− − Janaza Services:.Funeral Prayer − Jihad: Exerting oneself or striving.− Jilsa: The sitting position which occurs in between two prostrations during Prayer.Juz: Part.Jumu'ah: Friday Prayer Services; Friday.Ka‘bah: House of God in Mecca.Kafalat-i-Yatama: Taking care of orphans.− − Kalimah Tayyibah The credo of Islam, There is none worthy of ± − worship except Allah, Muhammad is the − ± Messenger of Allah.− Kalimah Shahadah: (Also called Kalimah); The declaration of Islamic − − faith, i.e., to bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, He is One, − without any associate, and to bear witness that Muhammad is the Servant and ± Messenger of Allah.− Khadim: A member of Majlis Khuddamul − − Ahmadiyya; servant.± Khalifah: Vicegerent Successor; caliph.− Khalifatul Masih Successor to Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − − ± − Khataman Nabiyyin: Seal of the Prophets.− − Khawariji: A group of Muslims who separated from − − Hadrat ‘Ali , and chose an independent as ± ± − Amir for themselves.− Khilafat: Succession.− Khilafat-i-Rashida.The righteous Khilafat.− − − Khuddamul Ahmadiyya: Organization of Ahmadis between the ages − ± ± − of 15 and 40 years.Khul‘a: Divorce obtained by a wife by herself or by her guardian on her behalf.Khulafa-i-Rashidin: The righteous Khulafa.− − − − Khamas: A special tax collected by Shi'ites (a "fifth").Khusuf: Eclipse of the moon, during which a special − 496

Page 497

− prayer is to be offered.Khususi Special.± − ± − Khutbah: Sermon.± Khutbah Thania: The second sermon of the Friday Sermons.± − Kusuf: Eclipse of the sun, during which a special − prayer is to be offered.Lailatul Qadr: The Night of power; The Night of destiny.The odd night during the last ten days of.Ramadan ± − Lajna: Council; Organization.Lajna Ima’illah: An organization of Ahmadi ladies above the − − ± − age of 15 years.Langar Khana: Public Kitchen; boarding and lodging house − for the guests of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Madrissah: An Islamic school.− Maharajah: Prince.− − Mahdi: The guided one.− Majlis: A congregation; an association.Majlis ‘Amila: Local or National Executive Body.− Majlis Ansarullah: Organization of all Ahmadi men over 40 ± − − ± − years of age.Majlis Kar Pardaz: Management Body.− − Majlis-i-Shura/ − Majlis Mushawarat: The Consultative Body (General Council) of − Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at that gives ± − suggestions to the Khalifah.− Mal:.Finance − Markaz:.Center; International Headquarters Ma‘ruf: Right; Well known.− Mash‘ar al-Haram: A small hill in which lies Muzdalifah ± − between Mecca and It is about six ‘Arafat.− miles from Mecca.Here the pilgrims stop for the night after their return from on ‘Arafat − the evening of the ninth day of the month of Hajj.± Masih: Messiah.− ± 497

Page 498

− Masih-i-Ma‘ud: The Promised Messiah (Hadrat Mirza − − ± ± − Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian ).as − ± Masjid: Mosque.Ma‘ud: The Promised one.− Maulvi: The religious teacher.− Minaratul Masih: A minaret whose foundation was laid down − − ± by Promised Messiah and Mahdi in the as − yard of Aqsa Mosque, Qadian to literally ± fulfil the prophecy that the Promised Messiah will be raised near a white minaret East of Damascus.Momin: A pious person.Mu‘allimin: Religious instructors.− Mubahilah: A prayer duel; A prayer contest; Calling − down the curses of God.Mu’adhdhin: The person who says the Adhan or Call to − Prayer.Mufti: An authority in the Islamic jurisprudence.− − Muhaddith: Renewer of the faith.± Muhajirun: The Muslims who migrated from Mecca to − − Medina with the Holy Prophet.sa Muhasib: Accountant general.± − Mujaddid: Reformer.Mujahid: Warrior in defense of Faith; endeavorer.− Mujahidin: Plural of Mujahid.− − − Mujtahid: A superior authority of the Shi'ite.Muqami: Local.− − Murabbi:.One who spiritually trains (A Missionary) − Musi: A person who makes Will; a person who − ± − agrees to observe the conditions prescribed by Promised Messiah and Mahdi for burial as − in.Bahishti Maqbarah − Musleh Ma‘ud: The Promised Reformer (Hadrat Mirza ± ± − ± ± − Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul − − ± − ± − 498

Page 499

− Masih II ) who fulfilled the prophecy of the ra − ± Promised Messiah and Mahdi , about the as − advent of a Reformer.Mutafarraq: Various.Nabi: Prophet.− Nabuwwat: Prophethood.Nau/Nou: New.Nawafil: Optional or supererogatory as applied to − types or categories of Prayers.Nazarat: Directorate, Department.± − Na’ib: Deputy; assistant.− Na’ib Sadr Vice President.− ± Nasir: Helper; A member of Majlis Ansarullah.− ± ± − − Nasiratul Ahmadiyya: An organization of Ahmadi girls between the − ± − ± ± − ages of 7 and 15 years.Nazamat: Department.± − Nazim: In-charge.− ± Nazir: An inspector or in-charge; secretary.− ± Nazir A‘la: Chief Secretary − ± − Nikah: Marriage announcement.− ± Nisab: The limit at which the payment of becomes Zakat ± − − compulsory.Niyyat: The formal intention which one makes in one's mind before starting a Prayer.Nizam: System.± − Purdah: The Veil; Men and women sitting separately Qa‘dah: Sitting position adopted towards the end of the second Rak‘at in Prayer.Qada: Administration of Justice; Offering a missed ± − Prayer.Qadi: Islamic Judge.− ± − − Qasr: The act of shortening one's Prayer.± Qauma: The posture of standing erect after Ruku‘.− Qibla Literally meaning, direction to which a person turns while performing Prayers; Refers to the at Mecca.Ka‘bah 499

Page 500

− Qiyam: The standing position in Prayer.− Qur’an: The Holy Book of Muslims, revealed to the − Holy Prophet of Islam, Hadrat Muhammad ± ± ± Mustafa.sa ± ± Radiallahu ‘anhu ( ): ra May Allah be pleased with him.± − − − Radiallahu ‘anha ( ): ra May Allah be pleased with her.± − − − Radiallahu ‘anhum ( ): ra May Allah be pleased with them.± − − − Rak‘at: One unit of Islamic prescribed formal − worship (Prayer or Salat) comprising of ± − Qiyam, Ruku‘ Sajdahs and two − − (Prostrations).Rak‘at: Plural of.Rak‘at − Ramadan: The Islamic month of fasting.± − − Rasul: Messenger.− Ravi: A narrator of a Hadith.− − ± − Rifah-i-‘Ama: Social Works.− − Risala Magazine − Rishta Nata: Matrimonial Affairs.− ± Rivayat: Narrations.− Ruhani Khaza’in Spiritual Treasurers − − − − Rukn: Member.Ruku‘: The bowing down position in the Prayer.− 'Sa' of flour: Two and a half Kilos of flour.± Sadqa: Charity.± Sadr: President.± Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya: Central Ahmadiyya Association ± ± ± Safa and Marwah Two hills near the in Mecca, which Ka‘bah ± − Arabian history and the traditions of Islam − connect with the story of Hagar and Ishmael.Abraham left them in the wilderness near these hills.They stand as a monument to Hagar's travail when she ran between them seven times in search of water for Ishmael, and seven circuits between these hills constitutes one of the rites of the Pilgrimage.500

Page 501

− Safi Awwal: s Members of An arullah belonging to the age ± ± − − group above 55 years.Safi Doem: s The category of younger An ar; members of ± ± − Ansarullah belonging to the age group of 40 ± − − to 55 years.Sahaba: Companions of the Holy Prophet , and of sa ± ± − the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Sahabbi: A Companion of the Holy Prophet ; A sa ± ± − − Companion of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Sajdah: The posture of prostration in Prayer.Sajdah Sahv: Prostration of condonement performed when a mistake has been committed during Prayer and which may affect its validity.Sajdah Tilawat: To prostrate while reciting or listening − recitation of the Holy Qur’an where − "Sajdah" is indicated in the Holy Qur’an.− Salat: Formal Islamic Prayer offered according to a ± − − prescribed procedure; also known as the second pillar of Islam.− Sallallahu ‘alaihi ± − wasallam ( ): sa Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.− Sam‘i wa Basri: Audio visual.− ± − Sanad: A continuous line of the narrators of the Hadith.± − Sara: Guest House.− Saum: Fasting in the month of Ramadan; also ± ± − known as the fourth pillar of Islam.− Sahibzada: Son of a respected person; A respected ± − ± − gentleman.Shari‘ah: Islamic jurisprudence.− Shi'ah Sect, specially Shi'ite sect.Shirk: Associating something with God; in Islam, − equivalent of unbelievers.Shu‘bah: Department.Siddiq: Truthful ± − 501

Page 502

− Silsilah Jama'at; community.− Silsilah ‘Alia Ahmadiyya: The Great Ahmadiyya Order.− ± ± Sigha Jat: Branches.± − − Sipara: 1/30 Part in the Holy Qur’an.th − − Sirat:.Exemplary character − Sufi: An Islamic mystic.± − − − Suhuf: Scrolls ± ± Suhuf-i-Ibrahim: Scrolls given to Prophet Abraham.as ± ± − − Sunnah: Pracice of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.sa ± Sunni: The way; orthodox or mainstream Muslims − as opposed to Shi'ahs.Surah: Arabic word for (Chapter), and used for − designating the chapters of the Holy Qur’an.− Tabi‘i: One of the Muslims who has met a − companion of the Holy Prophet.sa Tabligh: Preaching, Giving the message of Islam and − − Ahmadiyyat.± Tadhkirah: A collection of the revelations of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as − Tafsir: Commentary on the Holy Qur’an.− − Tafsir-i-Kabir: Long commentary of the Holy Qur’an by − − − Khalifatul Masih II.ra − − ± Tafsir-i-Saghir: Short commentary of the Holy Qur’an by − ± − − Khalifatul Masih II ra.− − ± Tahajjud: Optional Prayer of great merit offered in the latter part of the night; pre-dawn formal Islamic worship.− Tahmid: The prescribed words recited by the ± − congregation in response to the of the Tasmi − Imam; also, words of praise and − remembrance of God.Tajnid: Census; Enrollment.− Takbir: A set formula, recited loudly in order to − indicate that a congregational Prayer is about to start.502

Page 503

− Takbirat: Plural of Takbir.− − − Takbir-i-Tahrima: The Arabic expression 'Allahu akbar' (God is − ± − − the Greatest) proclaimed loudly by the Imam − while he raises his two hands to his earlobes at the very beginning of a congregational Prayer service.Talaq: Divorce.± − Talbiyyah: The prayer recited during ceremony.Hajj ± Ta‘lim: Education.− Taqdir: Divine decree.− Taqwa: Righteousness.Tarbiyyat: Moral training.Tarkah: Cash or kind left by a deceased person.Tasawwuf: Mysticism.± Tash-hidhul adh-han Stimulator of Intellects.± − − Taurat: : (Torah) given to Prophet Moses.as − Tawaf: Walking briskly around the Ka‘bah ± − anti-clockwise, starting from the Hajri Aswad and completing seven circuits.Tayammum: Substitution of wudu’; the hands are passed ± − over a dusty surface, and then passed over face and arms.This is called.Tayammum Tayyab: Food that is Halal and good.± ± − Ta’ir: Bird.± − Tifl: A member of Atfalul Ahmadiyya ± ± − ± Tilawat: Recitation of the Holy Qur’an.− − Travih Prayers: Special Prayer offered after Prayer ‘Isha’ − − − during the month of.Ramadan ± − Twelvers: Twelve Imam Shi'ism; A sect of Shi'as.− ‘Ulema: The learned persons of religion.Ummati Muslimah: The followers of the Holy Prophet of Islam − Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa.sa ± ± ± ± ± Ummah: The Islamic community, − Jama'at-i-Muslimah.− ‘Umumi: General.− − ‘Umrah: Lesser Pilgrimage in which some of the rites 503

Page 504

− of the Pilgrimage are left out.Vakalat: A department.− Vitr Prayer: Three of Prayer offered either at the Rak‘at − end of Prayer or Prayer.‘Isha’ Tahajjud − Walima: Reception given by husband after the − marriage has been solemnized.Waqf: Life devotion to serve the cause of Islam.− Waqfi Ardi: A short term devotion to serve Islam and − ± − − Ahmadiyyat.± Wajib: Necessary.− Waqfi Zindaghi: A person who has devoted his life to serve − − Islam and Ahmadiyyat.− ± Wasiyyat: A Will; to pledge to be a true and pious ± Ahmadi Muslim, and to pay from 1/3 to rd ± − 1/10 of the monthly income and all the th property left at the time of death as prescribed by the Promised Messiah and Mahdi in as "Al-Wasiyyat".− ± Wudu’: Ablution; prescribed cleaning before ± − engaging in formal Prayers.Yad dashtain Memoirs.− − Yadgiri: A memorial; representing a historical event.− − − Yathrib: Name of Medina before migration of the Holy Prophet to Medina.sa Zabur: (Psalms): given to Prophet David.as − Zakat: Literally meaning increase, purification; − technically signifies the obligatory alms prescribed by Islam.− Zihar: A frivolous declaration by a husband that ± − henceforth consorting with his wife would amount to consorting with his mother, a hateful method of pronouncing a divorce, practiced in pre-Islamic days, abolished by − Islam.− 504

Page 505

− BIBLIOGRAPHY 1.Jesus in India, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, Messiah and ± ± − − ± Mahdi.as − 2.Our Teachings (English translation of the book, " "), Kashti Nuh − − ± Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, Promised Messiah and Mahdi.as ± ± − − ± − 3.The Philosophy of the Teachings of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam − ± ± − − Ahmad of Qadian, Islam International Publications Ltd., London, ± − England.4.The Will, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, The Promised Messiah ± ± − − ± and Mahdi , The Oriental & Religious Publishing Corporation as − Ltd., Rabwah, Pakistan.5.A Misunderstanding Removed, Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, ± ± − − ± Messiah and Mahdi.as − 6.Selections from the Writings of the Promised Messiah , Islam as − International Publications Ltd., London, UK.7.The Discourses, Ahmadiyya Mission, Freetown, Siera Leone.± 8.Ahmadiyya Muslim Beliefs, Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud ± ± ± − − − ± − Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II , The Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, ra ± − − ± ± − Washington, DC.9.Invitation to Ahmadiyyat, Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud ± ± ± − − − ± − Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih II , Ahmadiyya Muslims Foreign ra ± − − ± ± Mission Office, Rabwah, Pakistan.10.Hadrat Ahmad, Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, ± ± ± ± ± − − − ± − ± Khalifatul Masih II , Islam International Publications Ltd., ra − − ± − London, England.11.Life of Muhammad, Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, ± ± ± − − − ± − ± Khalifatul Masih II , Islam International Publications Ltd., ra − − ± − London, England, 1998.12.Distinctive features of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, − ± ± − ± − ± Khalifatul Masih IV , Nazarat Isha‘at and Vakalat Tasnif., London, aba − − ± ± − − − ± − England.505

Page 506

− 13.An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, − ± ± − ± − ± Khalifatul Masih IV, Islam International Publications Ltd., London, − − ± − England.14.Islam's Response to Contemporary Issues, Hadrat Mirza Tahir − ± ± − ± − Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV , Islam International Publications, aba ± − − ± − Ltd., London, England.15.Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth, Hadrat Mirza Tahir ± ± − ± − Ahmad, Supreme Head of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim ± ± Community, Islam International Publications Ltd, London, − England.16.Revival of Religion, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih ± ± − ± − ± − − ± IV , Islam International Publications Ltd., London, UK.aba − 17.Christianity, A Journey from Facts to Fiction, Hadrat Mirza Tahir ± ± − ± − Ahmad , Islam International Publications Ltd., London, UK.aba ± − 18.Absolute Justice, Kindness and Kinship, Hadrat Mirza Tahir ± ± − ± − Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV , Islam International Publications aba ± − − ± − Ltd., London, England.19.Islam, Its Meaning for Modern Man, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan , ra − ± ± − Routledge & Kegan Paul, London and Henley, UK.20.Islamic Worship, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan , The London ra − ± ± − Mosque, London, England.21.Ahmadiyyat, The Renaissance of Islam, Muhammad Zafrulla ± − ± ± Khan , Tabshir Publications, Alden Press.Oxford, UK.ra − − 22.The Essence of Islam Vol.II, Extracts from the writings of the − Promised Messiah Translated into English by Muhammad Zafrulla as ± ± Khan, The London Mosque, London, UK − 23.Letter to a Dear One, Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, Majlis ± ± − Ansarullah, USA, October, 2001.± − − 24.The Exalted Status of the Holy Prophet Muhammad as sa Khataman ± − Nabiyyin, Sahibzada M.M.Ahmad, Islam International − ± − ± − ± − Publications Ltd., London, England.25.Ahmad, The Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Islam International as ± − − Publications, London, England.506

Page 507

− 26.Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, Laine Adamson, Elite − − ± International Publications, Ltd.Surrey, UK, 1989.27.Review of Religions, Malik Saifur Rahman, Vol.94, No.7, July ± − 1999, pp 51-63., The London Mosque, London, UK.28.Synopsis of Religious Preaching, Christianity and Islam, A.U.− Kaleem, Majlis Ansarullah, USA, Silver Spring, MD.± − − 29.An Introduction to Islam, Alhaj A.U.Kaleem, American Fadl − − ± Mosque Publication, Washington, DC.30.Truth About Ahmadiyyat, Imam B.A.Rafiq, The London Mosque, ± − London, UK 31.A study of Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's Exposition of Jihad, as ± ± − − ± − Tayyba Seema Ahmed, Islam International Publications, Ltd., ± ± − London.32.The Promised Messiah and Mahdi , Dr.Aziz Ahmad Chaudhry, as − ± Islam International Publications Ltd., London, England.− 33.Why Islam, Islam International Publications Ltd., London, − − England.34.Islamic Teachings for Ahmadi Muslim Children, Lajna Ima’illah, − ± − − − UK, London.35.Pathway to Paradise, a Guide Book to Islam, Lajna Ima’illah, − − − USA, Silver Spring, MD, USA 36.The Words of Wisdom and Purification, Rashid Ahmad Chaudhry, ± Islam International Publications Ltd., London, UK.− 37.Mosque, Its importance in the life of a Muslim, Rashid Ahmad ± Chaudhri, The London Mosque, London, UK.38.Islam, The Summit of Religious Evolution, Arif Humayun, Islam − − International Publications Ltd., London, England.39.A Book of Religious Knowledge, Waheed Ahmad, Fadl-i-‘Umar ± ± Press, Athens, Ohio, USA 40.S.W.T., A Muslim Prayer Book, M.A.Kareem, 2 Eglantine Road, Wandsworth, London, England.41.Basics of Religious Education, 3rd Edition, Sheikh ‘Abdul Hadi, − − Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at, Canada, Maple, ON, Canada.± − 42.Darul Aman, ‘Abdul Rashid, Architect, 16 Gressenhall Road, − − London.43.Commonsense About Ahmadiyyat, Faizur Rasul, An American ± 507

Page 508

− Fadl Mosque Publication, Washington, DC, USA.± 44.Mubashar Ahmad Khalid, Jama'at Ahmadiyya Ka Ta‘araf (Urdu), − ± − − ± − Department of Publications, Lajna Imai’llah, Karachi, Pakistan.− − 45.Words of Wisdom, Dr.Karimullah Zirvi, Majeed Mian and Syed Sajid Ahmad, Majlis Ansarullah, USA, Silver Spring, MD, USA ± ± − − 46., An introduction, Falahuddin Shams, The Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − − Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, Silver spring, MD, USA.± − 47.Salat, The Muslim Prayer Book, Islamic International Publications ± − − Ltd., London, UK.48.), Nazarat Dini Syllabus for the Training of "Nau Muba'in" (Urdu − − − − ± − Nashru Isha‘at, Qadian, India.− 49.The Concise Encyclopedia of Islam, Cyril Glasse, Stacey − International, London, England.50.Rabwah, Past and Present, Raja Nasrullah Khan, The Review of − Religions, Special Centenary Number, March 23, 1989, pp 10-27.51.Ahmadiyyat Today, Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, The Review of ± Religions, Vol.LXXX, No.2, February 1985, pp.17-23.52.Fate of a False Prophet, Syed Hasanat Ahmad, American Fadl ± ± Mosque Publication, 1985.53.Mantle of Righteousness, Bashir Ahmad Orchard, The Review of − ± Religions, Vol.LXXXVIII, No.12, December, 1993, p.45.54.Collection from Sayings of the Prophet Munajat-i-Rasul, (Urdu) − − − − Muhammad Mustafa , Hafiz: Muzaffar Ahmad, Rabwah, Pakistan.sa ± ± ± ± − ± ± ± 55.Rules and Regulations of , Hameedullah, , Tehrik-i-Jadid Vakil A'la ± − − − − Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Pakistan, Revised Edition, ± − − ± 1998.56.The Philosophy of , Sheikh Mubarak Ahmad, London Zakat − − ± Mosque Publication, London, UK.57.The End of Fourteen Century and Advent of the (In Imam Mahdi as − − Urdu), Mohammad Azam Akseer, Department of Publication, Sadr − ± Anjuman Ahmadiyya, Qadian, India.± 58.A Selection of the Sayings of the Holy Prophet , Basharat Ahmad sa Bashir, Rabwah, Pakistan, August 1958.59.The Status of Women in Islam, Khalil Ahmad Nasir, The − − ± − ± Ahmadiyya Fadl Mosque, Washington, DC ± ± 508

Page 509

− INDEX A ‘Abdul Muttalib ±± Grandfather of the Holy Prophet 183 ‘Abdullah − Father of the Holy Prophet 183 ‘Abdullah Bin Sabah − ± − ± A hypocrite 200 ‘Abdullah Chakralvi − − − Beliefs regarding Hadith 170 ± − Ablution Procedure to perform --- 86 Prayers to be recited after --- 88 Abraham See under Hadrat Abraham and ± ± Ibrahim − − Abul Kalam Azad − − − Editorial written by --- at the demise of the Promised Messiah 228 Abu ‘Abdullah bin Isma‘il Bukhari − − − − − − See under Imam − Abu ‘Abdullah bin Yazid ibn Majah − − − − See under Imam − Abu Bakr − See Under Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq ± ± − ± − Abu Da’ud − − − See under Sihah Sittah ± ± − ± Abu Da’ud Sulaiman − − − − See under Imam − Abu Hashim ‘Abdullah − − − ---, leader of a Shi‘ah sect 211 Abu ‘Isa bin Tirmidhi − − − − See under Imam − Abu Musa al-Ash‘ari − − − --- and battle of Jamal 202 Abu Talib − ± − --- as guardian of Holy Prophet 183 --- and Hadrat ‘Ali 201 ± ± − Abu Ayub Ansari − − − − Holy Prophet stayed in Medina at the home of --- 5 18 Adam Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Adhan − See Under Prayer Ahadith ± − − Memorizing forty --- 182 Ahmad bin Shu‘aib al-Nasa’i ± − − See under Imam − Ahmadi(s) ± − See also under Ahmadiyya Muslim ± Jama'at − --- Muslims 50, 222, 265 Association of --- Muslim Doctors 384 Association of --- Muslim Architects and Engineers 384 Association of --- Muslim Computer Scientists 384 Association of --- Muslim Scientists 384 Association of --- Muslim Students 384 Difference between --- and non-Ahmadi Muslims 272 ± − Lahori --- 307 − − Ahmadiyya ± Khilafati --- 293 − Madrissah --- 305, 352 Ahmadiyyat , ± See under Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − Ahmadiyya Muslim ± --- Medical association 384 Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at ± − Associations of --- 384 Beliefs of --- 261, 266 Conditions of initiation 268 Foundation of --- 217 International Headquarters of --- 324 Organizational structure of --- 318 The name---and Ahmadi Muslims217, 221 ± − Ahmadiyya Anjuman Isha‘at Islam ± − − --- and split in the Jama'at 307 − Ahrar ± − --- and anti-Ahmadiyya Movement 404 ± Ajnadan Battle of --- 196 509

Page 510

− Alcohol See under Prohibitions ‘Ali − See under Hadrat ‘Ali Bin Abi Talib ± ± − − ± − Allah/Allah's − − See also under God Almighty --- Name before eating 448 Associating partners with --- 21 Attributes of --- 61, 459 Beginning with the name of --- 448 Belief in Unity of --- 54, 60 Islamic concept of --- 55 − Obedience to --- 24 Remembrance of --- 83, 93, 125 Spending in the cause of --- 387 Striving in the cause of --- 288 Unity of --- 54 Worship of --- 19 Al-Yasa‘ See under Elisha Amin − − Finishing the Holy Qur’an and --- 432 − Amir Muhammad ibn Sa‘ud − ± − Forefather of the House of Sa‘ud 206 − Amir − See under National Headquarters Aminah − ---, mother of the Holy Prophet 183 Amr Bin ‘As − ± Rebellion against Hadrat ‘Ali 202 ± ± − Angles Belief in --- 64 Functions & characteristics of --- 66 The Islamic concept of --- 65 − Ansar ± − New Converts in Medina 186 Members of Majlis Ansarullah 370 ± − − Ansarullah ± − − See under Majlis Ansarullah ± − − Anjuman --- 306 Antichrist Task of the Messiah and --- 276 ‘Aqiqa − --- ceremony 431 ‘Arafat − Staying at --- during Hajj 158 ± Aron Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − ‘Asr Prayer ± See under Prayer Association(s) of the Jama'at − Architects and Engineers --- 384 Computer Scientists --- 384 Medical --- 384 Scientists --- 384 Students --- 384 Aswad Ansi − Rebellion against Islam 196 − Atfalul Ahmadiyya ± − ± Foundation of --- 369 Pledge of --- 370 Atta‘awwudh See under Prayer Attashsha-hud See under Prayer Attributes --- of God Almighty 61 Auxiliaries of the Jama'at − Atfalul Ahmadiyya 369 ± − ± Lajna Ima’illah 362 − − Nasiratul Ahmadiyya 365 − ± − ± Majlis Ansarullah 370 ± − − Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya 367 − ± Ayyub − See under Job B Bahishti Maqbarah − See under Qadian Baitul ‘Atiq − See under Mecca Bai‘at See under Initiation Ten conditions of --- 268 Baitud Du‘a’ − See under Qadian Baitullah − See under Ka‘bah Baitul Fikr See under Qadian Bakka 510

Page 511

− See under Mecca Barahin-i-Ahmadiyya − − ± See Books of the Promised Messiah Basra ± March towards --- for a battle 202 Bath Taking --- before Prayer 104 Taking --- on Friday 118 Taking --- on ‘Id Day 415 − Battle --- of Saffain 202 ± Beliefs --- of Ahmadiyya Jama'at 261, 266 ± − The Islamic --- 52 − Blessings Invocation of --- on Friday --- 121 Books See also under Divine Scriptures --- of the Promised Messiah 258 Divine --- 68 Books of Hadith ± − Categories of the --- 179 Buddhisttua Maitreya Second coming of --- and Buddhists44 Bukhari − − See under Sihah Sittah ± ± − ± Buyutul Hamd Scheme − ± See under Rabwah C Calendar Hijri Qamri --- 489 − − Hijri Shamsi --- 490 − − Call to Prayer See under Prayer Cave Hadrat Abu Bakr in --- Thaur185,195 ± ± − Holy Prophet in --- Hira 184 ± − Holy Prophet in --- Thaur 185, 195 Centenary Jubilee Celebrations --- scheme 381 --- fund 413 Chanda See under Monetary Donations Chapters Local -- of the Jama'at 360 − Charity Giving in the way of Allah 412 − Circuits --- between Safa and Marwah 156, 160 ± − Cleanliness --- and offering Prayer 104 College(s) Ta‘limul Islam --- 350 − − Women's -- (Jami‘a Nusrat) 350 Creation − ± Purpose of --- of man 20 D Dajjal − See under Antichrist Darul Diafat − ± − See under Rabwah Darul Ikram − − A hostel for orphans 382 Darul Qada − ± − See under Rabwah Darweshan − See under Qadian Da‘ud − − See under David David Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Day of Judgement Belief in --- 72 Day of Resurrection See under Day of Judgement Dhikr-i-Ilahi − − See under Remembrance Dhul-kifl See under Ezekiel Dickerson --- and ancient organisms 474 Dietary Laws Islamic --- 446 − Divine Decree 511

Page 512

− Islamic concept of Predestination − and Free Will 73 Divine Revelations See under Revelation Divine Scriptures --- to guide the mankind 24 Divorce --- in the sight of Allah 428 − Dowie, Alexander Prayer duel with Promised Messiah and Mahdi 251 − Worldwide Publicity of the duel 255 Leaves of Healing and --- 251 Du‘a’ − See under Supplication Du‘a’ -i-Janazah − − See under Funeral Durud Sharif − − See under Blessings E Eating Etiquette of --- 446 Prayer before --- 448 Prayer after --- a meal 448 Eclipse --- of the Moon and the Sun 239 Elijah Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Elisha Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Enoch Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Estate Islam and --- of a deceased person 486 − Ethics Islamic concept of --- 484 − Ezekiel Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − F Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation ± --- and Khilafat Library 345 − --- scheme launched 311, 374 Faith Articles of --- 52, 54 Declaration of --- 80 Fajr Prayer See under Prayer Fast(s)/Fasting See also under Ramadan ± − Kinds of --- 149 Obligatory --- 149 Prayer on beginning --- 147 Prayer on ending fast --- 147 Prohibited Days for --- 150 Voluntary --- 150 Festival(s) ‘Idul fitr 414 − ± ‘Idul adhiyya 414 − ± ± Fidyah Payment as a reparation 165 Payment in Ramadan 149 ± − Fitrana ± − --- monetary contributions 396 Forgiveness Asking for --- Friday See also under Prayer Invoking blessings on the Holy Prophet on --- 121 Khutbah Thania and --- Prayer 117 ± − Taking bath on --- 119 Missing three consecutive --- Prayer117 Funeral See also under Prayer --- Prayer 138 --- service procedure 139 G Gabriel Angel --- 67 God Almighty See also under Allah − Attributes of --- 61 The Islamic concept of --- 55 − Gospel --- of Jesus 59, 68 Greeting --- each others 414, 452 512

Page 513

− H Hadith ± − Categories of the books of --- 179 Criteria to judge authenticity of a --- 181 Source of guidance 169 The categories of --- 180 Hadrat ‘Abdullah Sanori ± ± − − Letters of the Promised Messiah 348 Hadrat Abraham ± ± Divine revelation and --- 33 Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − House of God built by --- 82 Sacrifice and ‘Idul adhiyya 414 − ± ± The institution of Pilgrimage 156 --- and Ishmael 157 Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq ± ± − ± − Khilafat of --- 195 − --- in cave Thaur 185, 195 Demise of --- and glad tidings of Paradise 196 Hadrat Abu Hanifah ± ± − ± − A famous jurist 205 Hadrat Abu Huraira ± ± − A tradition related by --- 62, 127, 131 204, 213, 439 Hadrat Ahmad ibn Hanbal ± ± ± ± A famous jurist 205 Hadrat ‘A’ishah ± ± − A tradition related by --- 125, 153,451 Battle of Jamal 202 Hadrat ‘Ali Bin Abi Talib ± ± − − ± − Khilafat of --- 201 − Battle of Jamal 202 Demise of --- and glad tidings of Paradise 203 Hadrat Amir Mu‘awiyah ± ± − − Commander of Muslim Forces 200 Rebellion against Hadrat ‘Ali 202 ± ± − Hadrat Fatimah ± ± − ± Marriage to Hadrat ‘Ali 201 ± ± − Hadrat Hafiz Burhanuddin ± ± ± − ± − − Demise of --- 351 Hadrat Hakim Nuruddin ± ± ± − − − See under Khalifatul Masih I − − Hadrat Hasan ± ± ± Accession of --- 203 Hadrat Ishmael ± ± --- and Khana Ka‘bah 157 − Festival of sacrifice (‘Idul adhiyya) 414 − ± ± Hagar and --- 157 Hadrat Isma‘il Shahid ± ± − − − A man of God 343 Hadrat Khadijah ± ± − Marriage to the Holy Prophet 184 Hadrat Malik ibn Anas ± ± − A famous jurist 207 Hadrat Maulvi ‘Abdullah Sanori ± ± − − − Letters of --- 348 Hadrat Maulvi ‘Abdul Kar m Sialkoti i ± ± − − − Demise of --- 351 Hadrat Maulvi Ghulam Rasul Rajiki ± ± − − − − − Laid foundation of Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± in Rabwah 353 Hadrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud ± ± − − − ± − Ahmad ± See under Khalifatul Masih II − − ± Hadrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad ± ± − − ± See under Promised Messiah and Mahdi − Hadrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad ± ± − − ± ± See under Khalifatul Masih III − − ± Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad ± ± − ± − ± See under Khalifatul Masih IV − − ± Hadrat Mo‘inuddin Chishti ± ± − − − A man of God 343 Hadrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiq ± ± − ± ± − The first editor of Al-Badr 385 Hadrat Muhammad bin Abu Bakr ± ± ± − --- and Hadrat ‘Ali 202 ± ± − Hadrat Muhammad ibn Idris ± ± ± − al-Shafi i ’ − − A famous jurist 205 Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa ± ± ± ± ± See under Holy Prophet of Islam − Hadrat Muhiyyuddin ibn Arabi ± ± ± − − A famous saint and scholar 225 513

Page 514

− Hadrat Salman Farisi ± ± − − − A tradition narrated by --- 117, 132 Surah Al-Jumu‘ah and --- 213 − Hadrat Shahabuddin Suharwardi ± ± − − − A man of God 343 Hadrat Sheikh Ya‘qub ‘Ali ‘Irfani ± ± − − − − First Editor of Al-Hakam 385 ± Hadrat Sufi Ahmad Jan ± ± − − ± − Promised Messiah took first Bai’at in his house 217 Hadrat Talha ± ± ± ± - -- and Hadrat ‘Ali 199, 201 ± ± − Hadrat ‘Umar Faruq ± ± − − Khilafat of --- 197 − --- and Hijrah Calendar 198 Demise of --- and glad tidings of Paradise 198 Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani ± ± − − Khilafat of --- 199 − Copies of Holy Qur’an 200 − Demise of --- and glad tidings of Paradise 200 Hadrat Zubair ± ± --- and Hadrat ‘Ali 199, 201 ± ± − Hagar --- search for water and food158 Hajj ± ‘Arafat 158 − Hajj-i-Badl 155 ± --- Mufrid 163 --- Qiran 164 − --- service 159 --- Tamatt‘a 163 Hajri Aswad 160 ± Ihram 156, 159 ± − Indiscretions during --- and reparations 165 Mina 158 − Muqam-i-Ibrahim 156, 160 − − − Muzdalifah 161, 188 Obligations of --- 157 Ramiul Jumar 156 − Rites of --- 158 Safa and Marwah 156, 160 ± − Talbiyyah 159 Tawaf 156, 160 ± − The requirements of --- 155 Types of --- 162 ‘Umrah 162, 163 Hajjatul Wida‘ ± − See under Holy Prophet of Islam − Hajri Aswad ± See under Hajj ± Halima ± − Nurse of the Holy Prophet 185 Hand(s) Using right --- 451 Harun − − See under Aron Headquarters International --- 324 National --- 357 Elections of office-bearers 357 Local chapters 360 --- Amir 359 − --- Majlis ‘Amla 358 − --- Missionary in-charge 360 Heaven Islamic concept of --- 471 − Hell Islamic concept of --- 471 − Hijrah See under Migration Hijri − --- Qamri Calendar 186, 191, 489 − --- Shamsi Calendar 490 − Holy Books See under Divine Books Holy Qur’an − --- is Word of God 173, 177 Prophets mentioned in the --- 70 Revelation of --- 171 Sajdah Tilawat 174 − Shortest chapter of --- 174 Some facts about the --- 173 Surah Fatihah 107,140 − − ± Surah Al-Ikhlas --- 108 − − ± The last chapter revealed 174 The last revealed Book 68 Holy Prophet of Islam − Birth and life of --- 183 Charter of Freedom --- 186 Divine revelations 30 First Revelation to the --- 173, 184 Hijrat (Emigration) of the --- to Medina 186 --- as Khatamun Nabiyyin 281 − − 514

Page 515

− --- in cave Hira 184 ± − Illness and demise of the --- 190 Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Mosque of the --- 185 Practice of the --- 177 Sayings of the --- 179 The farewell address of the --- (Hajjatul Wida‘ ) 187 ± − The --- and his adversaries 76 The last revelation to the --- 174 Hospital(s) Ahmadiyya --- in Africa 380 ± Fadl-i-‘Umar --- 354 ± Humanity Unification of - through Islam 44 − Hurmat Bibi ± − − First wife of the Promised Messiah 229 Hud − Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − I Ibn Majah − Sihah Sittah See under ± ± − ± Ibn Saba ± − Leader of Egyptian rebel group 201 Ibrahim − − See also under Abraham Muqam-i-Ibrahim 158, 162 − − − Suhufi --- 38, 68 ± ± ‘Idul adhiyya − ± ± --- festival 414 ‘Idul fitr − ± --- festival 414 ‘Id fund − --- monetary donations 412 Ihram ± − See under Hajj ± Ilyas − See under Elijah Imam − See also under Prayer Hidden --- 45 --- Abu ‘Abdullah bin − − Isma‘il Bukhari 179 − − − − --- Abu ‘Abdullah bin Yazid − − − ibn Majah 179 − --- Abu Da ud Sulaiman 179 ‘ − − − − --- Abu Hanifa − ± − --- Abu ‘Isa bin Tirmidhi 179 − − − − --- Ahmad bin Shu‘aib al-Nasa i 179 ’ ± − − -- Malik 180 − --- Muhammad bin Hanfiyyah 211 ± ± --- Muslim bin Hajjaj 179 ± − Second coming of Hidden --- 44 Imam J‘far Al-Sadiq − ± − Leader of a Shi‘ah group 208 Imam Mahdi − − Advent of --- 44, 48, 213, 216, 218, 275 --- and Masih are the same person 279 − ± Inheritance Laws of --- 486 Initiation --- First at the hands of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi 216 − Conditions of --- to join Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at 270 Injil ± − − See under Gospel Institutions Various --- of the Jama'at 305, 373 − Intoxicants See also under Prohibitions Use of --- prohibited 454 Iqamat − See under Prayer Isaac Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − ‘Isa − − See under Jesus ‘Isha Prayer ’ − See under Prayer Ishaq ± − See under Isaac Ishmael House of God built by --- and Abraham 82, 157 Islam/Islamic − − --- and a Muslim 32 --- beliefs 52 --- Calendars 186, 489 --- concept of equality of mankind 483 --- concept of ethics 484 515

Page 516

− --- concept of Heaven and Hell 471 --- concept of Jinn 476 --- concept of Justice 480 --- concept of predestination and free will 73 --- concept of revelation 459 --- concept of the salvation 470 --- concept of the soul 463 --- concept of life after death464 --- eating manners and etiquette 446 --- is a comprehensive religion 36 --- is a universal religion 31, 34 --- law 168 --- prohibitions 453 --- worship 79 Khilafat in --- 192 − Prohibitions concerning Marriage 417 Revival of --- 212 Sects in --- 204 Some distinctive features of --- 36 The five pillars of --- 80 The Holy Prophet of --- 183 The name --- is given by God 32 Unification of humanity through --- 44 Isma‘il − − See under Ishmael Istikharah Prayer − See under Prayer I‘tikaf − See under Ramadan ± − ‘Izra’il − Angel --- 67 J Jacob Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Jalsa Salana − − Chanda --- 401 --- system in the Jama'at 401 − Jama'at/Jama'ats − − Various --- associations 384 Various schemes of the --- 373 Various institutions of the --- 373 Chanda system of the --- 387 --- various other functions 432 Jami‘a Ahmadiyya − ± History of --- 351 Jami‘ − A book of traditions 180 Jamratul ‘Aqba Stone throwing at --- 161 Jamratul ‘Ula − Stone throwing at --- 161 Jamratul Wasta Stone throwing at --- 161 Jesus Demise of --- 263 Divine revelation 35 --- mentioned in Qur’an 70 − --- and his opponents 76 --- migration to India 263 Jethro Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Jihad − The concept of --- 288 Types of --- 291 Jinn Islamic concept of --- 476 Job Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − John --- the Baptist 70 Jonah Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Joseph Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Jurisprudence Schools of --- 205 Justice Islamic concept of --- 480 − K Ka‘bah Building of --- 82 Pilgrimage 154 Kalimah Shahadah − ---, the first Pillar of Islam 81 − Karl R.Woese Prokaryotes and eukaryotes 478 Khadijah − See under Hadrat Khadijah ± ± − Khalid Bin Walid − − Commander of Muslim Army 196 516

Page 517

− Khalifatullah − − Definition of --- 189 Khalifatul Masih − − ± Definition of --- 318 Election of --- 301 Status of --- 302 Khalifatul Masih I − − ± Khilafat of --- 304 − Bai‘at at the hands of the Promised Messiah 217 Khalifatul Masih II − − ± Commentary of the Holy Qur’an 308 − Election as -- and split in Jama'at 307 − Khilafat of --- 306 − Some of the writings of --- 309 Prophecy concerning --- 243 Khalifatul Masih III − − ± Khilafat of --- 310 − Khalifatul Masih IV − − ± Book, "Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge, and Truth" by --- 313 International Bai‘at 313 Khilafat of --- 312 − Migration to England 312, 329 Muslim Television Ahmadiyya 313, 355 ± Translations of the Holy Qur’an 314 − Khalifatunnabi − − Definition of 193 Khatamun Nabiyyin − − See under Holy Prophet of Islam − Khawariji − − --- and Hadrat ‘ Al i 203 ± ± − Khilafat − Blessings of --- 298 Establishments of --- 296 Era of --- 299 Functions and Powers of --- 298 Institution of --- 286 --- Day 433 --- in Ahmadiyyat 293 ± --- in Islam 192 − --- Library 345 ---, Second manifestation of Divine Power 301 Need for a --- 295 Signs of --- 297 Khuddamul Ahmadiyya − ± Foundation of --- 367 Pledge of --- 368 Khutbah: Thaniyyah ± − --- and Friday Prayer 118 Kufah − The Capital of Islam moved to --- 201 − Kusuf Khusuf − − See under Eclipse L Lailatul Qadr Prayers and --- 152 Lajna Imai’llah − − Foundation of --- 362 Pledge of --- 365 Law(s) Islamic Dietary --- 446 − Islamic --- 168 − --- of inheritance 486 Leaves of Healing Alexander Dowie's newspaper 251 Library Children's Book Section 346 Khilafat --- 345 − --- News about Jama'at 349 − Preservation Section 346 Rare writings and manuscripts 348 Rare pictures section 348 Text Book Section 346 Life Islamic concept of --- after death 464 − --- after death 72 Means of attaining purpose of --- 24, 26 Religion helps to achieve the object of --- 28 The purpose of man's --- 19 London, UK First Ahmadiyya Mission in --- 355, 407 ± Migration of Khalifatul − Masih IV to --- 312, 329 − ± Muslim Television Ahmadiyya 355 ± Wembley Conference 355 Lot Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Luqman − 517

Page 518

− Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Lut − ± See under Lot M Madrissah --- Ahmadiyya 352 ± --- tul-Hifz 332 ± ± Magazines of the Jama'at − Al-Hakam and Al-Badr 385 ± Review of Religions 386 Tash hidhul Adh han 369, 386 − − Maghrib Prayer See under Prayer Mahdi Mir − − Second coming of --- and Sikhs 44 Majlis Ansarullah ± − − Foundation of --- 370 Pledge of --- 372 Majlis-i-Mushawarat − See under Majlis-i-Shura − Majlis-i-Shura − Hadrat ‘Umar and the first --- 198 ± ± General rules of --- 321 International --- 320 National --- 323 Malik ibn Anas − A famous jurist 205 Mankind Islamic concept of equality of --- 483 − Marriage Announcement of --- (Nikah) 420 − ± Prohibitions concerning --- 419 Walima 427 − Divorce 428 Marwa h Circuits between Safa and ---156, 158,160 ± − Maryam Marriage Fund 413 Masih − ± See under Messiah Masih Ma‘ud − ± − See also under Promised Messiah & Mahdi − --- Day 433 Masjid Nabawi − --- and Holy Prophet 's residence 191 Mash‘aral-Haram ± − Hajj service and --- 161 ± Maulvi Muhammad ‘Ali − ± − Split in Jama'at and --- 307 − Mecca Bakka 156 Birth place of Holy Prophet of Islam 183 − House of God in --- 156 Migration of Holy Prophet of Islam − from --- to Medina 185 Successful return of Holy Prophet of Islam from Medina to --- 186 − Medina Migration of Holy Prophet of Islam − from Mecca to --- 185 Mosque of the Holy Prophet in --185, 191 Yathrib 186 Messiah See also under Promised Messiah and Mahdi − Ahmadiyya interpretation of the ± advent of the --- 277 --- and Mahdi are the same person 279 − Non-Ahmadi Muslim's concept of ± − the advent of the --- 276 The second advent of the --- and Mahdi 213, 275 − Michael Angel --- 67 Migration Holy Prophet's--- to Medina 186 Mina − --- and rites of Hajj 158, 161 ± Minaratul Masih − − ± See under Qadian Mirza Fadal Ahmad − ± ± Son of the Promised Messiah 229 Mirza Hadi Beg − − − --- moved from Samarkand to Punjab 225 Mirza Sultan Ahmad − − ± Son of the Promised Messiah 229 Missionary In-charge See under National Headquarters Monetary Donations Chanda ‘Am 396 − Chanda Jalsa Salana 401 − − Chanda Wasiyyat 397 ± 518

Page 519

− Fitrana 396 ± − The main obligatory --- 393 Zakat 393 − Moses Divine revelations and -- 33 Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − --- and Pharaoh 38, 76 Mosque Aqsa ---, Rabwah 311 ± Basharat ---, Spain 311 --- of the Holy Prophet 190 Prayer at entering the --- 84 Prayer at exiting--- 85 Visiting a --- 84 "Yadgiri --, Rabwah 354 − − − Mu’adhdhin See under Prayer Muhajirun − − Migration of Muslims to Medina 186 Muhammad ± See under Holy Prophet Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab ± − Founder of Wahhabi Muslim sect 206 − − Mu‘jam A book of traditions 180 Mukhtar Saqfi − − Founder of a Shia Sect 211 Muqam-i-Ibrahim − − − See under Hajj ± Musleh Ma‘ud ± − See also under Khalifatul Masih II − − ± The prophecy concerning --- 243 --- Day 433 Musa − See under Moses Musailma Kadhdhab − Rebellion against Islam 196 − Musleh Ma‘ud ± ± − See under Khalifatul Masih II − − ± Muslim bin Hajjaj ± − See under Imam − Muslim(s) Ahmadi --- 50,222, 265 ± − Ceremonies 417 Festivals 414 Islam and a --- 32, 42 − ---, a book of traditions 180 Muslim Television Ahmadiyya ± (MTA) Start of --- 313, 355 Musnad A book of traditions 179 Muzdalifah Rites of Hajj and --- 161, 188 ± N Nabi − See also under Prophet Siratun --- Day 433 − Nasiratul Ahmadiyya − ± − ± Foundation of --- 365 Pledge of --- 366 Nawafil − See under Prayer Newspapers of the Jama'at − Al-Badr 385 Al-Hakam 385 ± Daily Alfadl 386 ± Weekly International Alfadl 386 ± Nikah − ± See also under Marriage --- sermon 421 Some requirements before --- 423 Nisa’i − − See under Sihah Sittah ± ± − ± Noah Divine revelations and -- 33 Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Nuruddin − − See under Khalifatul Masih I − − ± Nusrat Jahan ± − Educational Institutions & Medical Centers under --- Scheme 380 --- Academy in Ghana 380 --- Scheme 311, 379 Second wife of Promised Messiah 229 P Pandit Lekh Ram − Prophecy regarding --- 248 519

Page 520

− Paradise See Under Heaven Pharaoh --- and Moses 36 --- body preserved 38 Pilgrimage See also under Hajj ± Last --- (Hajjatul Wida‘) 187 ± − The institution of --- 82, 156 Polygamy --- in Islam 429 − Pork Prohibition of eating --- 453 Prayer(s) Ablution before --- (Wudu 85 ’) ± − Arabic part of --- 105 ‘Asr --- 99 ± Atta‘awwudh 107, 140 Attashsha-hud 112 Call to --- (Adhan) 90 − Daily --- 95 Determination of intention for --- 105 Du‘a-i-Qunut 115 − − Durud Sharif 113 − − Fajr --- 100 Fard --- 98 ± Forbidden times for --- 102 Friday --- service 116 Funeral --- 138 ‘Idul adhiyya 414 − ± ± ‘Idul fitr 414 − ± Imam 95 − Importance of praying in one's own language 98 Iqamat 93 − Isha’--- 101 ‘ − Istikharah --- 137 − Jilsa 111 Maghrib --- 101 Mu’adhdhin 89 Nafal/Nawafil --- 122 − Number of Rak at in each --- 99 ‘ − obligatory --- 98 Offering --- in congregation 79, 97, 99 Offering --- while on journey 102 --- after finishing a meal 448 --- at some other occasions 449 --- at the time of sneezing 450 --- before eating 448 --- before undertaking an activity 449 --- on termination of an activity 449 Prerequisites and Conditions regarding offering --- 103 Qada 99 ± Qa‘dah 112 Qauma 110 Qibla 103 Qiyam 95 − Qunut prayer --- 115 − Remembrance of Allah 128 − Remembrance of Allah after --- 125 − Ruku‘ 109 − Sajdah 110 Salutations 114 Sujudus Sahv 121 − Sunnah --- 98 Tahajjud --- 124, 145, 151 Taking bath before --- 104 Thana 106, 140 − Tahmid 110 ± − Takbir-i-Tahrima: 106, 416 − ± − Tasbih 109 − Tasmiyyah 107, 141 Tasmi 110 − Tayammum Procedure 89 Timings of the --- 100 Travih --- 151 − − Types of --- 98 Vitr --- 115 Voluntary --- 122 Zuhr --- 100 ± Prohibition(s) --- concerning marriage 419 --- of drinking alcohol 454 --- of eating pork 453 --- of gambling 455 --- of placing flowers on graves 458 --- of taking interest 456 Promised Messiah and Mahdi − A list of the books of the --- 258 Ahmadis and advent of the --- 277,279 ± Appointment as a Reformer Brief life history of --- 225 Children of the --- 229 Claim as Imam Mahdi 50, 215 − − Claim as Messiah 217 Claims of the --- 230 Conditions of Bai‘at 270 Demise of --- 227 Dire end of Dr.Alexander Dowie 251 Demise of father of --- 226 Extraordinary knowledge of the Holy Qur’an 242 − First Jalsa Salana 401 − − 520

Page 521

− First Marriage of the --- 229 Foundation of Ahmadiyya Muslim ± Jama'at 50, 214 − Fulfillment of the prophecies of the --- 243 Heavenly signs in support of the --- 238 Mission of the --- 233 Mujaddid of the 14th century 280 Non-Ahmadi Muslims' concept ± − of the advent of --- 276 --- day 433 Prophecy concerning birth of a son 243 Prophecy regarding Lekh Ram 248 Revelation about father's demise 226 Second marriage of the --- 229 Signs of eclipses of the moon and the sun 239 Status of the --- 235 The second advent of the --- 275 Ten distinctive favors of God 236 Prophet(s) See also under Holy Prophet of Islam − --- mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − --- are human beings 72 Types of --- 192 Prostration Prayer during --- 98, 111 Psalms --- of David 68 Q Qa‘dah Prayer See under Qadian, India Bahishti Maqbarah (Heavenly − Graveyard) 327 Baitud Du‘a’ 326 − Baitul Fikr 326 Darweshan --- 325 − Migration from --- 325 Minaratul Masih 325 − − ± Qibla See under Prayer Qub a’ − The first Muslim Mosque in --- 185 Qunut Prayer − Prayer See under Qur’an − See under Holy Qur’an − R Rabwah, Pakistan Aqsa Mosque 311 ± − Bahishti Maqbarah 309, 327 − Baitul Karamah 378 − Buyutul Hamd Scheme 381 − ± Centenary Jubilee Scheme 381 Darul Diafat 377 − ± − Darul Qada 373 − ± − Kafalat-i-Yatama 378 − − Fadl-i-‘Umar Foundation 374 ± Fadl-i-‘Umar Guest House 377 ± Fadl-i-‘Umar Hospital 354 ± Foundation of --- 309, 328 Jami‘a Ahmadiyya 351 − ± Jami‘a Nusrat 350 − ± ami‘a tul Mubashshirin 352 J − − Khilafat Library 345, 377 − Nusrat Jahan Scheme 379 ± − Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya 329 ± ± Ta‘limul Islam College 350 − − Tal‘imul Islam High School 349 − − Tehrik-i-Jadid 336 ± − Waqfi Ardi Scheme 382 − ± − Waqf-i-Jadid 342 − Waqfi Nau Scheme 382 Rak‘at/Rak‘at − Number of --- in each Prayer 99 Ramadan ± − See also under Fast(s)/Fasting Fasting in --- 145 I‘tikaf (Retreat) during --- 151 − Lailatul Qadr 152 Travih Prayers 151 − − Rami-ul-Jumar − − --- and rites of Hajj 156 ± Raphael Angel --- 67 Religion(s) Islam is a comprehensive --- 36 − Islam is a universal --- 34 − --- helps achieve the object of life 28 521

Page 522

− Significance of --- 28 The continuity of --- 29 Unity of --- 31 Religious The Apex of --- development 31 --- Founder's Day 433 Remembrance --- of Allah 128 − --- of Allah after finishing Prayer 125 − Revelation Islamic concept of --- 459 − --- from God descends in words 266 --- about the demise of the Promised Messiah's father 226 Ruku‘ − See under Prayer Ruqayyah Wife of Hadrat ‘Uthman 199 ± ± − S Sadqa ± See under Charity Sadr Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± ± See under Rabwah Safa ± − Circuits between --- and Marwah 156, 158 Sahihain ± ± − ± A book of traditions 80 Sajdah See also under Prostration --- Tilawat 174 − --- sahv 121 Salat ± − See under Prayer Salih ± − ± Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Salman Farisi − − − --- and advent of the Messiah and Mahdi 213 − Schemes of the Jama'at − Buyutul Hamd 381 − ± Centenary Jubilee Scheme 381 Fadli ‘Umar Foundation 374 ± Nusrat Jahan 311, 379 ± − Waqfi Ardi 382 − ± − Waqfi Nau 382 School(s) Ta‘limul Islam High 349 − − Industrial --- 350 Shri Nishkalank Avtar − Second coming of --- and Hindus 44 Shi‘ites Shia stream of Islam 205, 206 − The Larger --- Subsects 210 Shu‘aib See under Jethro Sihah Sitta ± ± − ± Famous books of traditions 180 Sin(s) Repentance from --- Sneezing Prayers after --- 450 Soashyant Second coming of --- and Zoroasterians 44 Solomon Mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Soul Islamic concept of --- 463 − Spending See also under Charity --- in the Cause of Allah 387 − Striving See also under Jihad − Highest --- 290 Sufis − − Cryptic sects of --- 75 Sulaiman − See under Solomon Sunan A book of traditions 180 Sunnah See also under Prayer Practice of the Prophet of Islam 177 − Sunnis − A major subsect of Muslims 207 The Schools of Jurisprudence 205 The Ahmadis sect of --- 212 ± − The Wahhabis sect of --- 206 − − Supplication(s) Silent --- Du‘a’ ) 131 ( − Surah --- Al-Fatihah − − ± 522

Page 523

− 108, 141 --- Al-Ikhlas 109 − ± --- Ya Sin, recited at the death bed 138 − − T Tahajjud See also under Prayer Late night voluntary Prayer 115, 124, 145 Talbiyyah See under Hajj ± Taravih Prayers − − ± See under Prayer Tarkah See under Estate Tasmi‘ − See under Prayer Tawaf ± − See under Circuits Tawrat − See under Torah Tayammum See under Prayer --- procedure 89 Tehrik-i-Jadid ± − Chanda --- 403 Daftars or Phases of --- 410 Demands of --- 405 Foreign Missions under --- 407 Objectives of --- 404 Tehrik-i-Jadid Anjuman Ahmadiyya ± − ± See under Rabwah Tirmidhi − Sihah Sittah See under ± ± − ± Torah Holy Book of Jews 68 Travel Salat during --- 102 ± − Travih Prayers − − Praye See under r U ‘Umar Faruq − − See under Hadrat ‘Umar Faruq ± ± − − Ummati Muslimah Division of --- 204 Ummi Kulthum − Wife of Hadrat ‘Uthman 199 ± ± − ‘Umrah See under Hajj ± Unity of God Allah See under − ‘Uthman Ghani − − See under Hadrat ‘Uthman Ghani ± ± − − V Vitr Prayers See under Prayer Voluntary Chandas (Donations) ‘Id Fund 412 − Other --- 413 W Wahhabis − − A Sunni Muslim Sect 206 − Walima − --- function 427 Waqfi Ardi − ± − --- Scheme 382 Waqf-i-Jadid − Chanda --- 410 Waqf-i-Nau --- Scheme 382 Wasiyyat ± Chanda --- 397 Nizami --- 397 ± − Will See under Wasiyyat ± Woman in Islam − Divorce 428 Marriage 417 Polygamy 429 523

Page 524

− Segregation of sexes 443 --- as daughter 441 --- as mother 438 --- as wife 440 Worship Islamic --- 79 − Meaning of --- 23 Wudu’ ± − See under Ablution Y Yadgiri Mosque − − − First Prayer led by Hadrat ± ± Khalifatul Masih II in --- 354 − − ± Yahya ± See under John Yarmuk − Battle of --- 196 Ya‘qub − See under Jacob Yathrib See under Medina Yunus − See under Jonah Yusuf − See under Joseph Z Zabur − See under Psalms Zaidis − A sect of Shi‘ites 208 Zakat − See also under Charity Obligation of paying --- 165 --- and Jama'at's Chanda 167 − Rates of payment 394 --- is a pillar of Islam 82 − Zakariyyah See under Zechariah Zam Zam Sacred water fountain in Mecca 158 Zechariah Prophet --- mentioned in the Holy Qur’an 70 − Zuhr Prayer, ± See under Prayer 524

Page 524