Ehtesham A Arif, Student Jamia Ahmadiyya UK
Around 130 years ago, the melting pot of discord and disunity threatened to weaken the power of Islam. But it was during this critical moment, that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas was chosen to establish a Community that would embody the spirit of the Holy Prophetsa. Through his leadership and God’s divine mercy, a transformative force was set in motion, one that would bring new life to the spiritual world and reawaken those who had strayed from the true teachings of Islam. It was a pivotal moment in history, marking the beginning of a revolution that would forever change the course of the world.
God Almighty had also ordained a Second Manifestation, one that would carry on the Promised Messiah’sas mission and shake the very foundations of the earth. The impact and service of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya on both the religious and secular worlds are truly remarkable and beyond measure. It has transformed countless lives and brought about a new era of enlightenment and progress.
By the grace of Allah and the blessings of His Noble Messenger Muhamamdsa, the greatest gift bestowed upon the world by the Promised Messiahas and his Khulafa is undeniably the recognition and understanding of the Living God. This invaluable gift has the power to transform lives, restore faith, and instil a profound sense of purpose and connection with the Divine. It is a gift to which the entire world, until the Day of Judgement, is indebted.
Through their sermons, writings, and leadership, the Khulafa have continuously highlighted the signs and miracles of God that are evident in the world.
With regards to the rejuvenation of faith and the profound unveiling of the Living God by the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Hakeem Noor-ud-Deenra has eloquently stated:
“Islam itself pulsates with life, and the Holy Quran breathes as a living Book. However, the Muslims, […] have come to believe that their community lies dead. […] Upon hearing such declarations, I am consumed by profound unease and restlessness, yet a glimmer of delight emerges within me, for I am aware that, in fulfilment of Allah’s promise, a renaissance follows this period of dormancy. I firmly believe that now is the appointed time for this revival, and Allah Almighty intends to manifest it through our Imam, the Promised Messiahas. This explains why, with his advent and through his words, we are bestowed with the proclamation of a living Messengersa, a living Religion, a living Book, and indeed, a Living God.” (Suhbat-e-Sadiqin, Khitabat-e-Nur, address of November 1899, p. 42)
It was this living God who helped the Jamaat during the time of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIra. During this era, there was an escalation in the relentless attacks against Islam by the Hindus. The Aryas launched the Shuddhi Movement with a singular objective: to convert as many Muslims as possible to Hinduism in the United Provinces. RK Ghai writes in his work “Shuddhi Movement in India: A Study of its Socio-political Dimensions”, that a census report stated that the number of Aryas of the United Provinces grew from 65,572 in 1901 to 131,638 in 1911. This was all due to the Shuddhi movement. (“Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad’sra response to the Shuddhi movement and the Jamaat’s relentless services for Islam”, Al Hakam, 17 December 2021, Issue 196, p. 18)
This heinous assault on Islam struck deep into the souls of the Muslims, inflicting spiritual wounds on the face of the Indian Subcontinent. But who was the one to mend these wounds? Who was this extraordinary soul, destined to bring solace to the hearts of the suffering? It was none other than Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra swiftly devised a strategic plan to rescue the Muslims who were relentlessly targeted by the Aryas. The urgency of the situation demanded decisive action, and on 9 March 1923, Huzoorra stated:
“Remember that the Promised Messiahas is not only the Messiah and Mahdi, but also the [second coming of] Krishanas. This means that he was a reformer for the Hindus as well. […] The Promised Messiahas is the Messiah, so his Jamaat will be victorious over the Christians. He is the Mahdi, so the Muslims will receive guidance from him again. He is [the second coming of] Krishanas, so his Jamaat will be victorious over the Hindus, and will be widely accepted. For us, the avenues are opening for spreading the truth. We will make efforts [to spread Islam] among the Hindus.” (Ibid, p. 19)
And that is exactly what surpassed. On 12 March 1923, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra sent the first delegation of 20 missionaries to Agra. A second, third and fourth delegation were also sent soon after. News outlets across India, regardless of their affiliations, joined in commending the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat and their revered Khalifa for their selfless sacrifices and unwavering dedication to the service of Islam. (Ibid, pp. 19-20)
A newspaper, by the name of Zamindar, wrote on 8 April 1923: “The Ahmadi brothers have participated in this work [of preaching Islam] with such sincerity […] that every Muslim should take pride in it.” (Ibid, p. 20)
The newspaper, Vakil of Amritsar, stated on 3 May 1923: “The approach of the Ahmadi Jamaat is highly commendable [and…] we declare that the Ahmadi Jamaat of Qadian is doing the best work.” (Ibid.)
Indeed, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra services extended far beyond his actions against the Shuddhi movement. His contributions encompassed a wide array of endeavours, including his literary works, speeches, initiatives, services to the Holy Quran, and the established missions across the world during his Khilafat.
During his address at the Jalsa Salana Qadian in 1944, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra stated:
“God Almighty has commissioned me with the task of spreading the name of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and the Holy Quran to every corner of the world. Even if the combined strength of the entire world and the unity of Christian rulers, governments, America, Europe, and the wealthiest and most powerful nations were to stand against me in an attempt to hinder my mission, I swear by God Almighty that they will never succeed in their opposition.” (Al Maud, Anwar-ul Ulum, Vol. 17, p. 614)
The profound impact of his efforts continues to echo within the Islamic sphere, leaving an enduring legacy that is felt even in the present day. Towards the end of his time, Huzoorrh stated, “Putting my trust in the grace of God, I say that my name will always remain in the world. And even though I will die, my name will never be erased. This is God’s decision that has been taken in the Heavens. He will keep my name and my work established in the world.” (Uss Din Ko Qareeb se Qareeb Tar Laney ki Koshish Karo…, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 26, p. 541)
In the year 1965, the mantle of Khilafat was bestowed upon Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadrh, Khalifatul Masih III. The world owes a debt of gratitude to Huzoorrh for his exceptional contributions, particularly in the continent of Africa, where his presence brought profound blessings.
Huzoorrh, the champion of compassion, recognised the grave injustices faced by individuals in Africa, where Christian schools often denied admission to non-Christian students and hospitals turned away those who held different religious beliefs. In response, he established the Nusrat Jehan Scheme. Huzoorrh championed the cause of education and healthcare for all, recognising the value of every human being and their right to access these fundamental services. In April 1974, Huzoorrh stated that many schools and hospitals had been established and that there was a huge revolution in African countries, which was all due to the blessings of the Nusrat Jehan Scheme. (“Nusrat Jehan Scheme: Khilafat’s impetus for ‘Africa to Leap Forward’ – A glimpse into the early years (1970-1982)”, Al Hakam, 27 May 2022, Issue 219, p. 17)
As of 2021, under the Nusrat Jahan Scheme, 37 hospitals and clinics are operating in 12 countries, and 593 schools have been established in 11 countries. (Ibid, p. 18)
It was in the face of profound injustices and amidst a world filled with animosity and hatred between faiths, that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IIIrh stood up and proclaimed: “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
These words became a powerful motto, and served as a reminder that true strength lies not in harbouring animosity towards others, but in fostering a spirit of goodwill and empathy towards all humanity. This message transcended religious, cultural, and national boundaries, appealing to the innate goodness within every human being.
After his tour of Africa, Huzoorrh journeyed through Europe, which included a visit to Spain. Spain, once devoid of the vibrant essence of Islam, stood as a barren landscape yearning for spiritual rejuvenation. However, through Huzoor’srh unwavering prayers and divine qualities, a new dawn of Islam unfolded across the land. His fervent supplications re-ignited a dormant flame of faith, and the walls of Cordoba once again echoed with the sound of the azan. Huzoorrh stated:
“I can hear the resounding echoes of Tariq’s galloping horses that reverberate through the lands of Spain. Islam shall not only take root here but flourish exponentially. Every obstacle and hindrance will be removed.”
However, it was Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh who emerged as the torchbearer, upholding the legacy of his predecessor. In 1984, Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmadrh, inaugurated the completed mosque. In the Friday sermon that led to the inaugural session, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, stated:
“For all Ahmadis all over the world, and specifically those present in this ceremony, this is a very joyous day, and our hearts are filled with the praise of God Almighty […] yet a memory has been troubling me – a memory of that being who is not with us today. The one who had the most right to lead this Friday sermon and commence this ceremony. His restless prayers, the fruits of which we are partaking today, are those prayers that have changed the destiny of Spain.” (Friday Sermon, 10 September 1982)
A few years later, in 1987, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh initiated the Waqf-e-Nau scheme. In the present day, the number of Waqf-e-Nau surpasses a staggering count of more than 78,000 individuals. The Waqf-e-Nau scheme, indeed, emerges as a profound service to the world, guaranteeing the continuous propagation and flourishing of Islam until the very end of time.
Under the esteemed Khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, the profound prophecy revealed to the Promised Messiahas found renewed fulfilment. God Almighty had ordained, “I shall carry thy message to the ends of the earth.” (Tadhkirah [English], p. 184)
The journey of MTA, from its modest origins to its present stature, stands as a profound testament to the divine support bestowed upon the Jamaat. The remarkable growth and progress of MTA and its influence on the world transcend boundaries, as it serves as an unparalleled platform for tabligh, touching the lives of millions across the globe.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh states:
“We have witnessed the grand fulfilment of the prophecy of the Promised Messiahas. […] There is no one except God who could carry out this task. He is the One Being who has brought about such circumstances that have enabled this humble servant of the Promised Messiahas, that the speech he is delivering […] is being transmitted to all corners of the world.’ (MTA Documentary on the 25th Anniversary of MTA International)
While acknowledging the significant impact of MTA, it is equally important to recognise and commend the literary contributions of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh. Among his notable works, the magnum opus titled Revelation, Rationality, Knowledge and Truth stands out as an extraordinary treatise.
In December 1907, the Promised Messiahas received glad tidings from God Almighty, in which God revealed to him that “Surely, I am with you, O Masroor!” Almost a century later, the world was once again reminded of this prophecy, in which the heavens proclaimed: اِنِّيْ مَعَكَ يَا مَسْرُوْرُ (Tadhkirah [English], p. 1016). (“‘Surely, I am with you, O Masroor’”, Al Hakam, 25 May 2018, Issue 10, p. 3)
The Khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa has witnessed victories upon victories over the last two decades. Every dawn of every day is a testament to this blessed era that we are so fortunate to live in. Huzooraa spends every waking moment in the service of Islam. He has travelled the globe and spread the message of Islam and peace through his divine wisdom to every corner of the world.
Under his divine guidance, mosques have risen in majestic splendour across the continents, MTA has expanded with the inauguration of several new channels, and branches of Jamia Ahmadiyya have blossomed in various corners of the world. As well as this, Huzooraa’s contributions to the world of peace studies have transcended borders. An example of this is The Great Western Revival which encapsulates some of Huzoor’saa enlightening addresses.
The remarkable journey of Huzooraa has encompassed captivating expeditions to diverse nations across the globe, igniting the torch of Islam in every corner visited. From the serene landscapes of Japan to the captivating shores of New Zealand, from the vast expanse of Australia to the vibrant spirit of Guatemala, Huzoor’saa footsteps have graced countless lands, carrying the timeless message of Islam and peace. Most recently, we saw Huzoor’saa historic tour to the US, in which he became a testament to truth over falsehood and inaugurated the Fath-e-Azeem Mosque in Zion, Illinois.
The impact of the service of Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya is evident in various facets of our lives. Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya stands as a unique beacon, serving the world in ways unparalleled by any other religious leader or community.
The Promised Messiahas has stated:
“Behold! That era is coming, rather it is near, when God will spread great acceptance for this establishment in the world. And this establishment will spread in the east and west, and in the north and south, and the entire world would recognise this establishment as Islam. These words are not of man; rather, they are the divine revelation of God, free from any elements of impossibility.” (Tohfah-e-Golarwiyah, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 17, p. 182)