Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira (1875-1957)
Routine on the ship
During his journey [to Europe], Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’s[ra] primary activity was showing compassion to khuddam [i.e., his travel companions] and comforting others despite his poor health. Whenever he had the opportunity, he would sit with his companions. Occasionally, to uplift and distract his friends from distress, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih would listen to certain poems recited by Hazrat Maulvi Abdur Rahim[ra] (formerly known as Maulvi Rahim Bakhsh) and Dr Hashmatullah Sahib, sometimes joined by Hazrat Khan Sahib[ra]. Among these, the poem by Hazrat Mir Dr Ismail Sahib[ra] was particularly well-received and recited frequently.
The real purpose of reciting or listening to this poem was to recall the heartfelt emotions of the Jamaat members and encourage us to pray even more for them. The poem’s frequent recitation evoked deep emotions, known only to us, stirring immense love and attraction for Qadian. The imagery of Qadian’s landscapes and sacred places would come alive, often bringing tears to our eyes. If not for the pleasure of God, the benefit of the Jamaat, and the salvation of this world, no one would venture out in such perilous conditions.
This journey is a great struggle in the way of Allah (Jihad-e-Kabir). By God, we have detached ourselves from the world with the resolve that if death meets us on this path, it will not be death but eternal life. Our hearts and souls are not made of stone; they hold human emotions and feelings, yet the determination of our Imam has instilled a unique fervour in us.
Some might wrongly assume that this journey is a leisurely pursuit. If only they could observe and realise what constantly occupies our hearts and minds – no trace of comfort or relaxation, no arrangements for food, no certainty for sleep – yet all of this is pleasant because our Imam shares and alleviates our hardships.
This resolve of our Khalifa is for the glorious future of Ahmadiyyat, and coming generations will build magnificent strongholds on these foundations to bring Western nations into the fold of Islam. These grand structures will serve as abodes of peace for the upcoming world.
Whenever he had the chance, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih would join his friends after prayers to comfort and console them. On 21 July 1924, Huzoor[ra] held a long sitting, from after the Zuhr and Asr prayers to Maghrib and Isha. After dinner, a literary session continued until around 1:30 am.
In the evening, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud[ra] gave an insightful speech in response to a question from a Hindu, Mr Joshi, a young man headed to Germany for mechanical engineering studies. He had initially reserved a cabin with a sailor of the ship for £2 just to sleep in it, but got scared after interacting with them, sought our help, and eventually began to stay with us.
Last night, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] delivered a profound speech on The Ways to Recognise True Religion and Believe in the Living God. Huzoor[ra] explained that many people believe in God only by hearsay, which cannot withstand logical scrutiny. However, the faith born of true knowledge and received through the prophets’ irrefutable arguments remains unshaken. In this context, he introduced the Ahmadiyya Jamaat and briefly discussed the manifestation of God’s attributes presented to the world through the Promised Messiahas. He advised Mr Joshi to pray for divine guidance, and he later expressed to me [Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira] that he had indeed gained new knowledge.
Prayer list
A list of names has been compiled of all those friends who sent letters to Huzoor[ra] requesting prayers. This list has become quite extensive, forming a significant document. Bhai Ji’s efforts played a substantial role in preparing this list, and he has done such commendable work that all friends shall especially pray for him. The list prepared through letters includes nearly a thousand names. In addition, there is another list compiled by Maulvi Abdul Ghani Khan Sahib, which consists of the names of those who presented chanda, and that too was given specifically for requesting prayers. In Bombay, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih instructed friends who had not yet submitted a letter for prayers to do so. Hence, this prayer list has now become a historic document. The travel companions are also engaged in praying for their sincere friends whenever the opportunity arises.
Coast
As we approach Aden, a sense of enthusiasm and excitement is building within us. There is something that is drawing us inwardly. During these days, the journey to Medina has also been discussed several times. Huzoor[ra] personally feels a tremendous attraction and yearning for this journey [to Medina], which has existed since he was in Qadian, and it was only a matter of time [as to when he would visit it]. By the grace of God, we hope to be blessed with the privilege to visit the tomb of the Prophetsa in Medina.
‘Om’ flag bearer’s fate
Around 14 years ago, Pandit Rambhaj Dutt Chaudhry, a highly active member of the Arya Samaj and President of the Pratinidhi Sabha Punjab, went to England. As he passed through the region we are now traversing, he declared in Aden that he intended to install the flag of ‘Om’ on the walls of Mecca. At the time, reading his statement felt like a blow to the heart. I knew and believed that Mecca could not be overtaken by falsehood. However, I read about his intention in the newspaper, and today I witness with my own eyes that one of his family members, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Qadiani of Kanjrur, is passing through the same route, reciting اللّٰهم صَلِّ عَلٰي مُحَمَّدٍ [“O Allah! Peace and blessing be upon Muhammadsa], and eagerly awaiting [Medina].
If only Rambhaj Sahib were alive today, he would have witnessed that 35 members of his community [pledged allegiance] in Qadian, and are now worshipping the Lord of Mecca and expressing their devotion through their actions. Allah, who hears and preserves such declarations, will, insha-Allah, show that the voice raised from Mecca will echo through Qadian and impact the entire Dutt community.
My Dutt friends! I reminded you of the above incident only to make you aware of your obligations. One of your misguided pagan relatives intended to defile the pure fountain of Tawhid [Oneness of God] and truth [of Islam]. And now, that you have satiated yourself with this fountain of life, rise and quench the thirst of the rest of your community as well.
Current activities
Huzoor[ra] couldn’t sleep until 2 am, and upon waking up in the morning, he immediately began writing letters because the ship was expected to arrive in Aden at around 3 am late into the night. It came to our knowledge that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih had already prepared replies to 24 letters, with more still to be written. Blessed are those who will receive these letters. Due to the extensive workload and lack of sleep, Huzoor[ra] developed a slight fever. However, his invincible determination and tireless heart (empower him in every task). Last evening, after delivering a powerful speech, Huzoor[ra] mentioned that he truly felt hungry for the first time, as he had the opportunity to perform some work.
Love for Qadian
I have previously mentioned, highlighting the poem, how deep the love is of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih for Qadian. This love exists solely because God has chosen Qadian for him. Seeing your fervent love, friends are expected to develop a similar affection and connection for Qadian in their actions. In reality, love for Qadian is essential for the progress of one’s faith. The Promised Messiahas has stated that anyone who does not migrate to Qadian, or at least possess the intention to do so, is in danger of losing their faith. Hence, it is clear that love for Qadian is crucial for our spiritual advancement.
About the ship
Some friends might be curious about the details of the ship. Since I just got up from my sickbed yesterday, I neither want to delve into these details nor do I feel it is necessary to include them in this letter.
In brief, the ship we are travelling on is named “Africa,” and operated by an Italian company with all Italian staff, except for one or two Indian workers who are dissatisfied with their situation. The officers onboard treat us very well.
The ship weighs 4920 tonnes and was built in 1902, making it 22 years old. The captain in charge has 35 years of maritime experience. There are 109 sailors and 20 officers.
The total number of passengers on this ship is 73, including 26 in first class, 27 in second class, and 20 on the deck. The ship’s engine has 4500 horsepower, and it is currently travelling at a speed of 12 miles per hour. It is equipped with all kinds of facilities, and cleanliness is meticulously maintained. Crew members are diligent and punctual. Ice is made on the ship, and fresh water is produced from seawater. There are arrangements to keep fruits fresh, and laundry services are also available. English passengers enjoy various recreational activities, and there is also a cinema that provides entertainment in the evening.
The most prominent aspect of this ship is us, the passengers. The ship’s crew and co-travellers are astounded by the personality of our Khalifa.
The ‘greatest person’ on the ship
I approached one of the ship’s officers for the above information and interviewed him. One of my questions was, “Who is the greatest person on this ship?” He didn’t understand my question at first. When I explained it to him, he replied that an Indian first-class passenger is the greatest person. I asked for the name, and he said the person was in cabin no. 12, MB Mahmud Ahmad. He didn’t know that I was part of the same group.
There are 26 first-class passengers on the ship, and some of them hold significant positions and ranks. However, the true measure of greatness is not what the world perceives. The ‘Greatest Person’ on the ship is indeed the Khalifatul Masih, and it is a testament to the noble nature of the Italian ship’s officers that they feel this way.
Food challenges
Various challenges related to food arise on the ship. A Hindu passenger requested only vegetables. When he sat down to eat, the waiter brought a dish containing beef, some potatoes, and greens. The Hindu passenger said he did not eat meat. The server suggested he just eat the vegetables from the dish. The passenger insisted on being served only vegetables. The waiter took the plate back, removed the meat pieces, and returned it. The Hindu passenger then ate it [without hesitation]. The truth is that it is very difficult to arrange for your [preferred food on the ship].
Hindu-Muslim unity
In India, cow slaughter is considered a significant threat to Hindu-Muslim unity. However, if our Hindu friends can sit and eat at the same table in hotels or on ships, even with beef present, why can’t they adopt the same tolerance in India? If such objections are set aside, mutual animosity can indeed be reduced from this perspective.
A Muslim eating beef should not cause a Hindu to object, and likewise, if a Hindu eats pork or meat slaughtered by jhatka [animal killed in one stroke], which a Muslim considers haram [forbidden], the Muslim should also refrain from interference.
Photograph of the Khalifa and his associates
The ship’s doctor, an Italian, was very keen on taking a photograph of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] and his group. Today, he succeeded. He first took a photo of His Holiness and then captured a group photo. He was very pleased, considering it an unexpected blessing. Indeed, it is a great fortune.
Civilisation and ignorance
On one hand, there is European civilisation and its etiquettes, which can be an astonishing sight when one observes how much they adhere to high morals. However, their ignorance, on the other hand, is equally surprising. […]
Demanding task
Observing the given circumstances, our task appears very difficult and requires numerous sacrifices. On one hand, we need to reform their civilisation and address the unnecessary indulgences they have grown accustomed to in their lives. Changing and reforming this way of life is itself a challenging task. On the other hand, we must also address certain aspects that are related to their ignoble lifestyle. Breaking centuries-old customs and habits is no easy task.
They do not even view the spread of Islam in Arabia with surprise, and consider it an easy task, finding no greatness of [Hazrat Muhammd’ssa] prophethood in it. The Promised Messiahas has remarkably illustrated this [in the following couplets]:
كہتے ہيں يورپ كے ناداں يہ نبی كامل نہيں
وحشيوں ميں ديں كو پهيلانا يہ كيا مشكل تها كار
پر بنانا آدمی وحشی كو ہے اِک معجزه
معنیٔ رازِ نبوت ہے اسی سے آشكار
[“The ignorant in Europe claim that this Prophetsa is not perfect, saying, ‘It was not hard to spread the Faith among the uncultured.’ However, transforming an uncivilised person into a refined human being is a great miracle. This transformation manifests the true essence of prophethood.”]
Nevertheless, the current state of the world is different, and they perceive their ignorance as the highest form of civilisation and nobility. It is thus, insha-Allah, the task of this Jamaat to make them Godly people once again.
With this intention, despite failing health, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih II[ra] has undertaken this journey through the stormy weather and turbulent sea. I have very briefly presented the accounts of this voyage. If our friends witness our conditions firsthand, they will realise how difficult the task is and how much sacrifice it demands. God has surely decreed that through this resolute leader, the prophecies made to His messenger, the Promised Messiahas, will be fulfilled.
Our responsibility
My friends! We bid farewell to our beloved Imam from Qadian in this dangerous weather. He is dearest to us in the way of Allah the Almighty. Now, you should realise your responsibilities and, as Huzoor[ra] has stated, pray and prepare for great sacrifices. This journey, which heralds a grand purpose, demands a significant sacrifice from you.
The Promised Messiahas wrote in Fath-e-Islam (The Victory of Islam) that the revival of Islam demands a sacrifice from us. What is that? It is our death in this path. Therefore, until each one of us is prepared for this sacrifice, we will remain distant from our objective. God forbid that we ever [neglect our responsibilities].
– Yaqub Ali Irfani. 22 July 1924.
(Translated by Al Hakam from the original Urdu, published in the 12 August 1924 issue of Al Fazl)
