On Sunday, 5 November 2023, Ahmadis from Albania had the blessed opportunity to meet Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa in a virtual mulaqat. At the outset of the mulaqat, Huzooraa conveyed his salaam and called upon Bekim Bici Sahib to recite a portion from the Holy Quran. This was followed by its Albanian translation, presented by Sali Beja Sahib. Next, Saboor Ahmed Ghori, 12, presented a poem.
As the Ahmadis from Albania were seated in the mosque, Baitul Awwal, Huzooraa inquired about the construction date. In response, Huzooraa was informed that it was inaugurated in 2003. Huzooraa said, “It’s a spacious mosque, but there are few people. Make an effort to fill it with more people.”
Next, a video was presented to Huzooraa, showcasing various footage of the Jamaat in Albania, including scenes of the mosque, Baitul Awwal – which was named by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh – Darul Falah mission house, lecture hall, library, kitchen, guest rooms, and various other aspects.
Following this, members of the Jamaat in Albania had the chance to ask some questions and seek guidance from Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.
Sali Beja Sahib said to Huzooraa that many of the questions originating from Muslims on the Albania Jamaat website and during various meetings pertain to concerns about black magic. Some individuals, he said, firmly believe that someone has cast a spell on them and seek assistance in having it removed. How should we address such enquiries?
Huzooraa remarked that these matters are mere superstitious thinking. It is inherent in human psychology that continuous contemplation of a certain matter can lead one to believe in it. Huzooraa went on to question why black magic seems to affect Muslims but not Ahmadi Muslims, despite attempts made by many. If their faith is strong, believing that Allah has control over all matters, it should have no impact on them.
To counter such superstitious thinking, one must seek God’s forgiveness, recite istighfar, and also recite .لا حول ولا قوة إلّا باللّٰه
Huzooraa also emphasised the importance of reciting the last three chapters of the Holy Quran regularly to safeguard oneself. He mentioned that many individuals have turned black magic into a profitable business and added that Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Ira has extensively elaborated on this. In reality, such practices cannot harm individuals who have unwavering faith in Allah. Huzooraa further added that anyone with a strong faith in Allah the Almighty can be seen as immune to the effects of black magic.
Sometimes these ideas are implanted in people’s minds when they are young, and they can have a lasting psychological impact, causing the notions to persist even as they grow older. “This is why we do not believe in such things,” Huzooraa concluded.
Xhaferr Kuci Sahib said that sometimes, after hearing bad news or challenging situations, one can feel overwhelmed, even when they have nothing to do with it.
Huzooraa advised that one should pray to Allah, asking Him to strengthen their faith and protect them from all evil. Recite
لا حول ولا قوة إلّا باللّٰه
and pray during prostrations, asking Allah to alleviate their panic and worries. Huzooraa also recommended frequent recitation of Durood Sharif and istighfar, as it can help in resolving such issues.
Huzooraa added that in life, there are ups and downs; people hear both good and bad news. When one receives good news, they should express gratitude to Allah, and if they receive bad news, they should pray and give sadaqah. “It is also extremely important to give sadaqah,” Huzooraa emphasised. When people give sadaqat, Allah alleviates their hardships and worries. Huzooraa stressed that individuals should both pray and give sadaqah.
Mariglen Beja Sahib said that the Promised Messiahas stated that he did not come for political power. He added that, with the blessings of the Khilafat, a spiritual unity has been established in the Jamaat. Meanwhile, other Muslims are waiting for a Mahdi to bring them political unity. He asked whether Muslims will attain both spiritual and political power simultaneously in the future or if these two are distinct issues.
Huzooraa explained that the reason for the advent of the Messiah was to bring about a spiritual revival, and such a revival would also have an impact on worldly governments and leaders. This is why the Promised Messiahas received the revelation to unite all Muslims under one religion. Huzooraa elaborated that when this unity is achieved, a spiritual reawakening will occur, and as a result, governments of other countries will establish good relations.
Huzooraa also noted that the Holy Quran mentions, “If two parties of believers fight [against each other], make peace between them” (49:10), and emphasises making peace among brothers. Huzooraa pointed out that even though this guidance is directed at believers, it can be applied worldwide. He added that this principle implies that Allah told of a time when there will be various governments, and if any government engages in political transgressions, all should collaborate to put an end to these transgressions.
Huzooraa explained that this also indicates the continuous existence of distinct worldly governments, but there shall be one spiritual leader, the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, as foretold by the Holy Prophetsa. This is our belief, and this spiritual system, under Khilafat, shall continue until the Day of Resurrection.
Regarding those Muslims who anticipate the arrival of the Mahdi, Huzooraa pointed out that some expect a blood-thirsty Mahdi who uses force to achieve his goals. Huzooraa then rhetorically asked, what could be accomplished through the use of the sword?
Referring to the ongoing tensions in the Holy Land, Huzooraa mentioned that Muslims have not been able to unite and assist the Palestinians. They are awaiting the arrival of the Mahdi to provide assistance. However, Huzooraa clarified that the Mahdi, as prophesied by the Holy Prophetsa, is destined to come to establish peace.
Next, Bujar Ramaj Sahib said that he did not have a question but would like to request prayers for the growth and development of the Albanian Jamaat in their service to the Holy Prophetsa. He also prays for the inclusion of sincere and intellectual individuals as much as possible.
Huzooraa addressed the gentleman and said that it was also his duty to display profound empathy for his brothers, pray for them, and preach to them. Huzooraa added, “Insha-Allah, we firmly believe that a time will come when these individuals will have no choice but to accept the Promised Messiah.”
Considering the spread of Islam Ahmadiyyat, Huzooraa emphasised that one should strive, pray, and instil this spirit in the upcoming generations so that they, too, will work towards its propagation.
Agime Beja Sahiba said to Huzooraa that it is mentioned in the Hadith that Surah al-Kahf should be recited on Fridays. She said that she read this surah every Friday, although she did not know why. She asked Huzooraa to explain the importance of reading Surah al-Kahf on Fridays.
Huzooraa mentioned that the Holy Prophetsa also emphasised reading the first and last 10 verses of this chapter daily. In these verses, we find teachings about the establishment of monotheism, the rejection of the trinity, and the belief in the oneness of Allah. Huzooraa explained that the Surah speaks of the oneness of God, directing their focus solely towards Allah while refraining from worldly attractions. Furthermore, Huzooraa pointed out that on Fridays, it is recommended to recite Surah al-Jumuah, which is especially relevant in the current times. In this Surah, there is a prophecy regarding the Promised Messiahas, and it also underscores the significance of Friday. Considering the context of Surah al-Kahf, it becomes evident why we are encouraged to recite it frequently, Huzooraa concluded.
Saboor Ahmed Ghori, 12, asked why it was said that Ahmadis should not pray behind a non-Ahmadi Muslim imam.
Huzooraa explained that during the time of the Promised Messiahas, some people used to pray behind non-Ahmadis. However, when the Promised Messiahas learned that certain clerics declared it a sin to pray behind Ahmadis and they, the clerics, had then prohibited it, the Promised Messiahas advised that since they had declared this, Ahmadis should also refrain from praying behind them. Huzooraa added that the Promised Messiahas emphasised that Ahmadis had more reason to abstain from offering their prayers behind these clerics and imams because Ahmadis had accepted the very Messiah foretold by the Holy Prophetsa and the Imam raised by God, fulfilling the Holy Prophet’ssa prophecy, while they had rejected the Imam sent by Allah.
Genci Ramaj Sahib mentioned that in the Albanian Jamaat, Jalsa Salana is held in their current mosque, with separate areas for men’s meetings and Lajna seating in the mission house hall. He inquired if it was possible to lay a carpet in the mosque area, allow shoes in the assembly hall, and have individuals remove their shoes before reaching the prayer area.
Huzooraa explained that this entire area is considered a mosque, even if carpet rows are set up for prayer; the entire hall maintains its sanctity. Huzooraa emphasised that under exceptional circumstances, one can lay a covering on the floor for certain functions, though this is only permitted to a limited extent. However, it is crucial to make every effort to respect the sanctity of this space, as it is still a part of the mosque.
Huzooraa added that at such functions, guests can cover their shoes with disposable overshoe covers and sit on chairs if they are attending the Jalsa. However, Ahmadi Muslims should always remove their shoes and maintain the sanctity of the mosque. Huzooraa further mentioned that even in such cases, it is preferable to have a sheet or temporary covering laid out, and the mosque’s floor should be kept clean.
Huzooraa then asked if this arrangement was being made for Ahmadis or for guests who visit the mosque for events. In response, the questioner confirmed that it was for guests.
Huzooraa explained that, in such cases, a sheet should be spread on the floor or disposable overshoe covers can be used to cover shoes. Huzooraa mentioned that, under certain exceptional circumstances, this can be done. He recalled that during the inauguration of the Berlin Mosque, a function took place, and a covering was laid on the floor from wall to wall. However, Huzooraa emphasised that this should not become a regular practice.
Sinan Breshanaj Sahib said that this year he had intended to attend Jalsa Germany to meet Huzooraa but could not make it due to some constraints. He wanted to express that Huzooraa is the most revered person in the world for him, and he holds great respect for him. He further yearned to embrace Huzooraa.
Huzooraa said, “May Allah fulfil your desire,” and added, “May Allah create the means for our meeting face to face.”
Markelian Shparthi Sahib asked what efforts should be made to involve the new members, especially the youth, in the Jamaat.
Huzooraa mentioned that in this age, people’s focus is often not on spirituality or Allah. Therefore, we should strive to bring people closer and foster a personal connection with Allah. To achieve this, those who embraced Ahmadiyyat 10-15 years ago should share their experiences and instances of answered prayers with the youth. They should also narrate historical events related to Islam Ahmadiyyat, as well as various incidents as narrated by Huzooraa, in order to strengthen the faith of the youth. When this occurs, it will naturally draw them to the mosque.
In addition to this, organising indoor games and interactive programmes can help address questions that arise in the minds of youth. Huzooraa added that individuals should cultivate high moral values within themselves, which will attract others when they observe these morals.
Eliona ÇelaIs Sahiba asked if it was permissible to participate in a peaceful protest when children, women, and innocent people are being killed in Palestine, Ukraine, or even Israel.
Huzooraa responded, “Yes, you can certainly participate.” However, Huzooraa cautioned that sometimes those who organise such protests may include fanatics who turn peaceful protests into forceful ones. Huzooraa explained that if the protest is peaceful, then one may participate. Nevertheless, Huzooraa emphasised that Ahmadis should also write letters to ambassadors and politicians advocating for Palestinians and oppressed individuals, expressing their desire for global peace. This, Huzooraa noted, is also a form of silent protest.
Huzooraa then conveyed his salaam and the meeting came to a successful end.
(Report prepared by Al Hakam)
