Islamabad, Tilford, 29 December 2025: A delegation of khuddam from the Virginia Region of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya USA had the blessed opportunity of a mulaqat with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
The mulaqat commenced as Huzooraa graced the hall with his presence and extended his salaam. Following this, each of the khuddam had the opportunity to introduce himself. After the introductions, the khuddam were graciously granted permission to ask questions for their guidance on spiritual and worldly matters.
Honouring parents and personal independence
A khadim asked how one can balance the obligation of honouring parents with the need to make independent decisions in matters of faith and worldly life.
Huzooraa referred to the Quranic injunction to honour one’s parents. He explained that even if parents are strict and scold, one must never speak back to them disrespectfully. The Holy Quran commands not to utter even a word of contempt.
The only exception to obedience, Huzooraa clarified, is if they forbid one from performing religious duties or act against the Sharia. In such a case, one should not obey that specific command, but even then, one must remain silent and continue one’s own work without speaking insolently to them. Huzooraa reminded the khadim of the immense hardships parents endure in giving birth to, raising and educating their children. Therefore, after gratitude to Allah, the Holy Quran commands gratitude and respect towards parents.
Regarding independence in worldly matters, Huzooraa explained that one has the right to choose. For instance, in education, if parents wish for their child to become an engineer but the child prefers computer science or finance, the child has the right to pursue their interest. Similarly, regarding marriage, if parents propose a match, one should pray and then decide. If one feels the marriage will not work and could ruin the lives of both parties, they should politely and respectfully explain this to their parents.
Huzooraa concluded that while one can make independent decisions within the bounds of Islamic teachings, the manner of addressing parents must always be filled with dignity, respect and politeness.
Balancing secular education with religious study
A khadim sought guidance on how to manage reading Jamaat books alongside his secular studies and which should be prioritised.
Huzooraa broke down the 24 hours of a day to illustrate that time management is entirely possible. He calculated that if one allocates six hours for sleep, two hours for meals and two hours for offering the five daily prayers with due attention, this amounts to 10 hours. Huzooraa noted that even with a one-hour commute and six hours spent at university, followed by two to three hours of study at home, a person is still left with approximately four hours of free time. Huzooraa asked if it was not possible to set aside even one hour from this remaining time for religious knowledge.
Huzooraa advised the khadim to recite at least three or four rukus of the Holy Quran after the Fajr prayer on time. If time permits, he should spend 15 to 20 minutes reading religious literature then; otherwise, he should make it a habit to read for half an hour before going to sleep. This could include books of the Promised Messiahas, Hadith or the commentary of the Holy Quran.
Huzooraa remarked that if one claims they are too tired from their secular studies to read religious books, it implies that their preference is the world rather than faith. He reminded the khadim of his recent sermons emphasising the importance of setting priorities. To regulate one’s life, Huzooraa advised creating a proper chart or planner. Even dedicating a small amount of time daily will gradually develop an interest. Furthermore, weekends offer additional time where one can dedicate a couple of hours to studying Jamaat literature.
Serving the Jamaat through history
A khadim mentioned his interest in history and asked how he could use this interest to serve the Jamaat.
Huzooraa appreciated the subject, noting that a good grasp of history allows one to serve the Jamaat effectively. He advised the khadim to study Islamic history and conduct research in archaeology. History is an interesting subject that connects one to the past, the advent of Islam, Muslim periods, kings, conquerors and the history of Khilafat. Alongside general Islamic history, Huzooraa advised him to learn the history of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat), reading whatever is available in English.
The legacy of a devoted life-devotee
A khadim, who is the grandson of the late Maulana Attaullah Kaleem Sahib, asked Huzooraa to share a memory of his grandfather and sought advice on how to follow in his footsteps as a devoted servant of Islam Ahmadiyyat.
Huzooraa stated that although he did not work directly with Maulana Attaullah Kaleem Sahib – as he had already left Ghana when Huzooraa arrived – he had heard and seen that he was a deeply devoted waqif-e-zindagi. He served with great dedication in Ghana, Germany and everywhere he was posted.
Huzooraa highlighted that Maulana Attaullah Kaleem Sahib was regular in Tahajjud and would pray fervently for the Jamaat, the people and his work. He possessed a firm belief and sincerity. Huzooraa noted that despite the deteriorating economic conditions in Ghana at the time, he never complained and always spoke with a smile, placing his complete trust in Allah. This trust and dedication are the reasons for the blessings seen in his progeny today.
Huzooraa advised the khadim that if he wishes to follow in those footsteps, he must cultivate trust in Allah, regularity in salat, du‘a, firm faith and determination.
Dignity in labour
The Regional Nazim Waqar-e-Amal asked how to instil the spirit of waqar-e-amal (dignity of labour) in khuddam who try to avoid hard labour or tasks that might dirty their hands.
Huzooraa pointed out that the very English translation of the department is “Dignity of Labour.” He advised the nazim to tell the khuddam that this work is their dignity. The Holy Prophetsa was the most refined and cleanliness-loving person, yet when the situation demanded, he performed hard labour. Huzooraa gave the example of one of the battles, where the Holy Prophetsa dug the trench and carried stones alongside his Companions to the extent that his body and hair were covered in dust. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 2837)
Huzooraa stated that if the Holy Prophetsa could do this, then who are we to shy away? As Muslims, we must follow his blessed example. Such work brings honour and earns reward from Allah and the physical exertion is also good for one’s health.
The character of an Ahmadi doctor
A student who intends to become a doctor asked for guidance on how to maintain a strong bond with Allah alongside professional success.
Huzooraa stated that there are many Ahmadi doctors who are exemplary in their prayers and Tahajjud while also serving the faith. He gave the example of Hazrat Dr Syed Abdus Sattar Shahra, the maternal grandfather of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, who was a Companion of the Promised Messiahas. He would preach the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat while working at the hospital. Huzooraa narrated an incident where Dr Sahibra was preaching in his area when a man, in a fit of rage, threw a heavy clay pot at him, breaking his head. Dr Sahibra went to the hospital, had his wound dressed and returned. He found the man waiting, apologising profusely and fearing police action. Dr Sahibra forgave him immediately and invited him to listen to the message. The man was so moved by this high moral character that he accepted Ahmadiyyat, saying that the display of character had proved the truth of the Jamaat to him.
Huzooraa also mentioned Hazrat Dr Khalifa Rashid-ud-Dinra, another Companion and a civil surgeon. Despite a high salary for that time, he would donate generously whenever the Promised Messiahas made an appeal for funds to publish literature, often sacrificing his own needs for the sake of the faith.
Huzoorra then gave a similar example of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira, who generously served both the faith and the poor patients who visited him.
Huzooraa advised the khadim that a doctor should be humble and polite. A doctor’s kind and smiling demeanour is half the cure, whereas an intimidating attitude can worsen the patient’s condition. He instructed him to treat poor patients with special care and compassion, while charging fees from those who can afford it. This behaviour constitutes silent tabligh, which pleases Allah and serves humanity.
Raising a voice against political injustice
A khadim asked how one can raise a voice against political injustice and support human rights globally.
Huzooraa replied that we must do whatever is within our reach. Huzooraa mentioned that he speaks on these matters wherever he has the opportunity, such as during his address at Capitol Hill in the USA. He recalled that a senator later admitted to him that while Huzoor’saa words were true and appealing, they could not act upon them due to vested political interests.
Huzooraa noted that powerful lobbies and financial investments currently drive policy. He mentioned how certain groups invest heavily to invite politicians and professionals to specific countries to sway their opinions. In the face of this, true justice cannot be established easily. However, Ahmadis must continue to raise their voices for absolute justice and equality, demanding that double standards be abandoned. One should strive to promote these values within their own environment and circle of influence as much as possible.
Addressing Shia objections regarding Khilafat
A khadim sought guidance regarding the Shia view that gives preference to the Ahl-e-Bait (family of the Holy Prophetsa) over the institution of Khilafat.
Huzooraa explained that the divergence goes deep, with some extreme groups even holding incorrect views regarding the transmission of Prophethood. Regarding the Khulafa-e-Rashideen (i.e., the Rightly Guided Caliphs), Ahmadi Muslims believe that Hazrat Abu Bakrra, Hazrat Umarra and Hazrat Uthmanra were equally rightful Khulafa, contrary to the Shia view that Khilafat should have gone directly to Hazrat Alira. This dissension was started by rebels and mischief-makers.
Huzooraa affirmed that we hold all four Rightly Guided Khulafa in high esteem and also revere Imam Hassanra and Imam Hussainra. The Promised Messiahas condemned the cruelty of Yazid against the Prophet’ssa grandson, calling him “Yazid the wretched” [paleed], but this does not invalidate the status of the first three Khulafa.
Huzooraa advised reading the books Islam Mein Ikhtalafat Ka Aghaz [The Outset of Dissension in Islam] and Khilafat-e-‘Alawi Ke Waqi‘aat [Jang-e-Jamal: The Battle of the Camel] by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra to understand the basics of the history of these conflicts. He also noted that the Quranic verse “لَا تَحۡزَنۡ اِنَّ اللّٰہَ مَعَنَا” (Grieve not, for Allah is with us. [Surah at-Taubah, Ch.9: V.40]) refers to Hazrat Abu Bakrra accompanying the Holy Prophetsa in the cave, serving as a powerful argument for his status. One can explain these points gently to those who are willing to listen.
Becoming an exemplary role model
A khadim asked how Ahmadis can become excellent role models for the world so that others are inspired to follow them.
Huzooraa began with a humorous anecdote about a man who listened to the entire story of Yusufas and Zulaikha all night, only to ask in the morning if Zulaikha was a man or a woman. Huzooraa remarked that he has been answering this very question in his sermons for years: the way to become a role model is to act upon the Conditions of Bai‘at.
Huzooraa stated that many people write to him saying they accepted Ahmadiyyat not by reading literature initially, but by observing the high moral conduct of Ahmadis. The Promised Messiahas emphasised that mere words are of no value without action. Huzooraa gave an example of a cleric who delivered a fiery sermon on sacrifice. When his wife, moved by the speech, offered her gold bangles, the cleric refused to give them, admitting his speech was for others, not for himself. Such hypocrisy has no effect. To inspire the world, Ahmadis must ensure their actions match their words and show practical examples of sacrifice and high morals.
The mulaqat concluded with the khuddam having the honour of a group photograph with Huzooraa and each attendee was graciously gifted a pen.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)
