Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira (1875-1957)
The Review of Religions
On the evening of 3 October 1924, after the Isha prayer, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] held a consultation regarding The Review of Religions for London, discussing the arrangements of articles for the magazine and deliberating on various other related issues.
It was also decided during the meeting that the next morning at 8:30 am, Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard[ra] MA would be accompanied by friends to Putney with prayers. Later that night, a message arrived that Huzoor[ra] himself would lead the silent prayer at 8:30 am. In the morning, he conveyed to his companions that he would personally accompany Maulvi Sahib[ra] to Putney.
Accordingly, around 9 am, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] set out for Putney with his companions, escorting the new missionary. There could be no doubt as to Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard’s[ra] great fortune that the Khalifa himself was escorting him to his centre. Upon arrival in Putney, Huzoor[ra] disembarked at Southfields Station, proceeding towards the property in Putney through the area where new developments were taking place. Entering through the door that would open into the mosque, Huzoor[ra] spoke briefly about the mosque’s scheme and proposed clearing the densely overgrown and neglected garden.
After giving some guidance and proposals regarding the cleaning of the grounds, Huzoorra inspected certain parts of the main building, summoning a local contractor to discuss repairs and improvements. However, as offices in London close on Saturday afternoons, the contractor would be available on Monday. Huzoor[ra] then proceeded to the room designated for prayers, where he led an extended silent prayer, that would have been about the success and spread of Islam Ahmadiyyat in this country, the resilience of the missionaries, and for their efforts to be blessed with divine favours. [He would have also prayed] for the global expansion of the Jamaat.
Key handed over to the new missionary in London
After this extended prayer, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] personally handed Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard[ra] the key, a gesture I perceive as a symbol of victory and success. Until now, no missionary had ever experienced such an honour of being escorted by the Khalifa to their headquarters and receiving the key to their residence directly from his hands.
This momentous occasion will be remembered in the history of Maulvi Abdul Rahim Dard[ra] andthe London Mission. After handing him the key, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih[ra] II[ra] addressed the second missionary with the following guidance.
Address to Maulvi Ghulam Farid MA
[Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra said]:
“Mian Ghulam Farid, you must work with utmost obedience under the guidance of Maulvi Sahib. All progress and blessings come from obedience to one’s superiors. I understand that disagreements can arise, as it is natural. Even in the strongest bonds of love, discord can occur. For instance, despite Hazrat Ayesha’sra deep affection for the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, she once became disobliged with him. However, her discontent was never to the extent that it led to disobedience; in fact, her sincerity and obedience only grew stronger. Therefore, even in times of disagreement, it should never lead to disobedience of one’s superiors. Instead, you should work with dedication and love in the responsibilities entrusted to you, as this is the work of God, not of any human.
Obedience with contentment
“Secondly, obedience is incomplete without contentment. Among the qualities of believers, Allah the Almighty states:
ثُمَّ لَايَجِدُوا فِيْ أَنفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِّمَّا قَضَيْتَ
[‘Then they find not in their hearts any demur concerning that which thou decidest.’ (Surah an-Nisa, Ch.4: V.66)]
This means they are content with the Prophet’ssa decision and no discomfort arises in their hearts regarding it. In fact, they accept it with pleasure and contentment. This principle demonstrates that Muslims should serve with contentment in their obedience to superiors.
Complete submission
“Complete submission only occurs when obedience is accompanied by contentment and satisfaction, and this stems from faith. Mistakes are possible for everyone; no one is exempt from error except Allah. Given the human capacity for error, when one obeys, it is a testament to faith, and such faith naturally generates contentment. If there is a demur in one’s heart, it is a personal weakness. At the Battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, faced harm, and the advice given by the hypocrites actually proved accurate in hindsight. However, the Holy Prophetsa chose to follow the majority opinion of his Companionsra, [despite knowing its potential faults]. This conduct teaches us two things: firstly, that anyone can make mistakes [as was the case of some of the overzealous young Compaionsra, who insisted on going out to fight against the opinion of the Holy Prophetsa], and secondly, that one must carry out the orders of superiors or the majority with contentment. This is emphasised in the Quran, and success springs from this spirit. [For details, see Life and Character of the Holy Prophetsa, Vol. 2, 2013, p. 324]
Reflect on the outcome of your work
“Always remember that when one comes far from home and loved ones, making sacrifices of all kinds, one’s hard work should yield results. Those working here made some mistakes, and as a result, there may have been a lack of awareness at the centre. However, this will no longer be the case; the centre’s sense of responsibility will naturally be much greater now. Therefore, if results do not improve, it will be the responsibility of the missionaries and they will be held accountable, as it is impossible for sincere efforts not to bear fruit.
Address to Maulvi Abdul Rahim
“I advise Maulvi Abdul Rahim Sahib to be mindful of the feelings of those with whom he works. Approach them with affection, though this does not mean overlooking matters inappropriately. I say this because this is the work of the Jamaat, and even a small lapse can result in significant loss. I know that if something goes against your intention, you may not speak up. I consider this a weakness, and it should not happen. This is not personal work where overlooking things might not matter; any negligence impacts the management of the Jamaat. Responsibility requires that one demands work. Excellence in character does not mean remaining silent if someone is not performing their duties. True ethics here involve questioning one’s subordinates while retaining a tone of respect and kindness. Moreover, if there is a deficiency in a subordinate and they are not fulfilling their tasks, it is essential to inform the headquarters immediately, identifying the issue.
Avoid past mistakes
“Previous in-charges here repeatedly made the mistake of considering themselves independent entities. They never informed the centre of specific errors to indicate what mistakes were being made. They would merely report that an error had occurred and pray for forgiveness, without specifying what went wrong, as if they alone were responsible, and it was unnecessary for the headquarters to be aware. This was a mistake on the part of predecessors, and it should not continue in the future. It is the duty of every missionary to provide a full and accurate account of every situation, whether it is related to a supporter or an opponent. They must stay informed of all types of activities, both positive and negative, in their area of duty.
“The Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, was so much cautious that Allah recorded in the Quran that some would say, هُوَ اُذُنٌ ‘He is all ears,’ indicating how vigilant and informed he was. This example serves as a model for believers to remain alert and well-informed.
“Simply telling people that something is false or incorrect is not enough; they need more than that. It should be substantiated by facts rather than hearsay. Therefore, any matter, whether favourable or unfavourable, should be reported to the centre. Without this, proper guidance cannot be received, and the work suffers as a result. If such errors occurred in the past, they should not be repeated in the future.
Relations with all three strata of society
“It is also a missionary’s duty to be sociable and to cultivate relationships with various segments of society. Past missionaries have made the mistake of neglecting the upper classes, neither paying them attention nor making efforts to build relationships.
“The effectiveness of one’s work can often be measured by how people perceive it, and the type of society in which one operates has a significant influence. The Holy Prophet, peace be upon him, once saw a Muslim walking proudly before the enemy and remarked that while pride in one’s gait is generally undesirable, in that situation it was pleasing to God. Sometimes, projecting strength is necessary. Therefore, in building relationships, one should not disregard the upper echelons of society. Relationships with influential circles expand a person’s impact, enabling them to work more extensively and effectively. The act of establishing these relationships is also part of one’s work.
“If people here who are politically or socially prominent invite our missionaries or visit them, it creates an impression of their stature and respect within society, whether for their knowledge or spirituality. These individuals, even if not Muslims, can still be helpful. In India, we have observed that in major cities where influential Hindus or non-Ahmadi Muslims have social connections with our members, it becomes easier to arrange and conduct lectures.
“By the upper class, I refer to the highest tier. Build connections with them. Some members of society may not be involved in national or intellectual work, but they hold influence across various circles, sometimes even more than political figures. Their influence benefits others, and they actively help those around them. Consequently, their circle of influence continuously expands. Building connections with such people broadens the scope of one’s work.
“Next in importance are those involved in politics. Although they may not hold the highest rank in society, their influence is substantial.
“Then there are those with literary or intellectual interests, such as authors. Among them, select the most prominent individuals and establish relationships with them. Besides news agencies, cultivate connections with experts in fields like psychology and other sciences. These intellectuals can reach all places, and through them, one’s work can gain support in areas where it otherwise might not.
The most capable person is one who is sociable, as a gloomy demeanour is not well received in society. In intellectual circles, progress requires a sense of humour. In such gatherings, differing opinions are common. Share your perspective while listening to others’ views without annoyance or displeasure. Exchange your views without irritation and discontentment, and even in disagreement, listen attentively.
Maintain strong character
“When a missionary builds relationships across various societal groups, it is also their duty to maintain their character and conduct in such a way that no one can find fault. This has a lasting impact. Issues frequently raised by European critics should also be addressed regularly. For example, the topic of polygamy: many people support it, and some even write articles in newspapers under pseudonyms. Such people can be contacted through the same newspapers, and then efforts can be made to connect with those who are supportive. Through them, associations can be formed to help dispel misunderstandings and break down any ideological barriers.
Polygamy
From a religious perspective, Christians can be reminded that earlier prophets had multiple marriages, and at times, national needs warrant it. Once a group of supporters is established, they will begin to advocate for this perspective on their own. This is similar to how Unitarians and other sects emerged within Christianity. If this approach is followed, over time, our social influence will increase, and people will be more open to listening.
Issue of divorce
“Similarly, regarding divorce, meet with experts in law or members of legislative committees and explain Islam’s complete teachings on divorce. When they understand all aspects of this issue, they will come to see Islamic teachings as complete, practical, and necessary. In this way, misunderstandings will be cleared, and it will be easier to gain acceptance when this support and clarification come from a knowledgeable, legal group.
“Hence, plan in advance on how to make your work more beneficial and impactful. A worker’s vision should not be limited; they should look in all directions, much like a general [preparing for battle].
Approach toward visitors
“Be particularly mindful of those who come here for research, education, or to exchange ideas. Treat them with respect and politeness, avoiding any behaviour that might make them feel slighted. If you find in them certain practices unpleasant, correct them through your conduct.
“Pay special attention to cleanliness, which Islam emphasises, and here it makes a significant impression. In our country, people often regard those who lack cleanliness as Sufis, but that is not the case here.
“In Punjab, a person was being preached to and showed some inclination. However, when the Prince of Wales visited, and I was also in Lahore at the time, he saw me. Afterwards, when he was approached again with the message, he responded, ‘How can I accept? He was wearing a woollen coat!’ (It was, in fact, a serge coat.) Nevertheless, he assumed that wearing such attire indicated a lack of connection with God.
“Many people would criticise the Promised Messiahas, saying he ate pilau. In Qadian, a Hindu Deputy once said to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira, ‘If you don’t mind, I would like to ask something.’ Maulvi Sahib replied, ‘Please, go ahead.’ The Deputy said, ‘I heard that Mirza Sahib[as] uses almond oil.’ Maulvi Sahib responded, ‘In our [religion], this is halal [permissible].’
How to handle internal differences
“If there’s a disagreement between a subordinate and a superior, the subordinate should comply with the orders but is entitled to present an appeal. It should not be in the form of a complaint. Anyone who presents a baseless complaint engages in backbiting and should avoid this behaviour. Similarly, sometimes an officer notices that a subordinate is not performing duties regularly or is violating orders, yet he writes, ‘I am not complaining, but the subordinate is [neglectful].’ This is an act of weakness. Matters should be stated clearly. Likewise, when a subordinate submits a report, it should be based on facts and evidence. Presenting something unreasonable without cause is not worth consideration.
“An officer should act with courage. Without courage, tasks cannot be accomplished. Weakness not only prevents tasks from being completed but also leads to poor outcomes and creates disorder. Further details and instructions regarding the remaining work will be provided afterwards.
Responsibility toward students
“It is the duty of the missionary to not be reluctant in ensuring that our students who come here adhere to the principles of the shariah, and to pay attention even to the smallest matters. There are times when a person becomes very receptive and is easily influenced. Even atheists experience such moments. Therefore, one should never think that something is insignificant or question its benefit. With kindness and good character, the importance of religious observance should be instilled in them.”
Afterwards, there was a discussion on the suitability of the missionary in London, and Huzoor[ra] continued to make necessary decisions in this regard, while also providing brief guidance on how the missionary should engage with the local people. Then, the question of defining ‘nature,’ which had also arisen in the conference, was presented.
What is Nature?
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] explained that nature is the law by which every entity functions according to its structure and design. Nature is not a governing force; if it were, scientists would also be able to define God’s nature, which they cannot. Law arises with the formation of things. The actions that things perform when interacting with others are called their nature.
Huzoor[ra] was vouchsafed the meaning of لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ that nothing has an independent existence apart from God, as all things have some relational dependency. The Holy Quran mentions this relational aspect: وَ مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقْنَا زَوْجَيْنِ [“And of everything have we created pairs”], pointing to this mutual dependence. Thus, nature itself is not a governing force. Those who have regarded it as such are mistaken.
Bai‘at
Then, Mr Oshodi from Africa took the bai‘at. Although he had previously taken a written pledge, today he was blessed to take bai‘at by placing his hand in the hand [of the Khalifa].
(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 11 November 1924 issue of Al Fazl)