On Sunday, 19 November 2023, a group of waqifaat-e-nau from Belgium 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 Nazma Waheed Sahiba to recite a portion from the Holy Quran. This was followed by its Urdu translation, presented by Aisha Musawwir Sahiba. Next, Sima Ehsan Sahiba presented a hadith of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa and Sabeeka Ahmad Sahiba presented the translation.
Nadia Ahmad Sahiba was then called to recite a poem composed by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. Huzooraa then addressed Secretary Waqifaat-e-Nau and said that they should have also presented an extract of the Promised Messiah, “Even if it is a short extract or paragraph, it can serve as a reminder that in this era, the Promised Messiahas has come and what he desires from us through the teachings of the Holy Prophetsa.” Huzooraa added that they should be included in the programmes. “After the hadith, an extract should also be presented.”
Huzooraa then enquired about their location, and the secretary mentioned they were at the Baitul Mujeeb Mosque. Huzooraa was then informed that there were 83 waqifaat-e-nau members aged 7 to 20 present in the hall; and a total of 162 waqifaat-e-nau members in Belgium.
Following this, waqifaat-e-nau had the chance to ask some questions and seek guidance from Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa.
Qaishmeen Shehzad Sahiba said that she prayed that war does not break out in the world, however, she added that if, God forbid, war does break out then what crops should be grown after the war?
Huzooraa said, “In each region, in each country, crops are cultivated according to the specific conditions unique to that area. The same crop conditions cannot be everywhere. For example, rice cannot be grown in Europe due to its colder climate, just as some crops cannot grow in warmer regions. Therefore, in each region, crops are cultivated in accordance with their specific conditions. The staple food of an area is what will be grown, whether it’s before or after war.”
Huzooraa added, “After World War II, Russia was in a devastated state. The farmers in Russia cultivated their own crops and transported them to the city.” Huzooraa explained that the residents of the city had nothing to eat, and the farmers would exchange their vegetables and crops for necessities they needed in the city.
“As challenges arise, humans then adjust to them,” Huzooraa added. In the end, Huzooraa emphasised again that in each region, crops are cultivated based on the specific conditions unique to that place.
Dania Chaudhry Sahiba mentioned that in Belgium, teachers are not permitted to display the religion they are affiliated with, such as wearing the hijab. She explained that she was in the process of becoming a primary school teacher and asked how she could integrate her religious values into her teaching so that she could explain her religion better to the students and her colleagues.
Huzooraa said since she would be teaching little children at a primary school, she would obviously need to show her face and interactively engage with them. Discussing the dress code, Huzooraa explained, “One’s attire should reflect modesty, with the head also being covered.”
Huzooraa added that she could say, “‘This clothing represents modesty, and I feel it is appropriate for me to wear it to uphold modesty.’” Huzooraa explained that the value of modesty is emphasised in all religions and narrated that when Prophet Mosesas migrated and encountered two girls at a water source, their modesty prevented them from approaching where the men were. Huzooraa described how the girls, out of modesty, declined to get water for their animals in the presence of men. Huzooraa continued, “Prophet Mosesas took their animals and gave them water. Later, the Holy Quran mentions that one of the girls approached Prophet Mosesas bashfully and said, ‘My father calls thee’ [Surah al-Qasas, Ch.28: V.26]; and even then, modesty is highlighted. This illustrates that women should maintain modesty, as in it lies their dignity and honour. The teaching of modesty is not exclusive to Islam; it is a common principle across religions.”
Huzooraa went on to give the example of Hazrat Maryamas and said that she also wore modest clothing, and nuns do so too.
“We are those who practise our religion,” Huzooraa said.
Farheena Yusuf Sahiba mentioned that at times, a person may face great trouble from another individual and find it challenging to forgive them. She then asked, in such a situation, what should one do?
Huzooraa said, “One should have control over their emotions. If one has a relationship with Allah – and an Ahmadi Muslim girl, boy, or person, should have a relationship with Allah – then, if someone causes distress, one should lovingly explain to them that ‘this behaviour was wrong.’ If they keep on, it is advisable to leave that place. Regarding the question of forgiving, one must evaluate if the person has reformed; if they have, one should not hold a grudge, regardless of the severity of the trouble they caused. However, if someone does not reform, it is better to keep distance from them and remain among your good friends.”
Saira Ahmad Sahiba enquired about the fulfilment of the Holy Quran’s promise that the Holy Land would be granted to the righteous people. She asked about the timeline for when this Land would be given to the righteous and when true peace would be established, especially considering the current oppression faced by the people of Palestine.
Huzooraa said:
“[…] If you read the first ruku‘ of Surah Bani Isra’il, it is also written about this therein, and the tafsir explains the matter. Allah Almighty had said that the Israelites would be given the Land twice; the first time they would be granted it, then they would engage in frivolous acts, rebel, deviate from Allah’s commands, and commit oppression, and consequently, they would lose that Sacred Land. […] Hence, the Land was again taken from them and came under Muslim control. Then, once again, it was returned to them.
“This means that among the Muslims, too, there will be those ‘righteous servants of Allah’ [‘ibadi as-salihun (Surah al-Anbia, Ch.21: V. 106)]. Therefore, we should first strive to become such servants of Allah who are regarded as righteous in His sight. We should not deceive ourselves into thinking, ‘We follow righteousness, we are very virtuous, and since we recite La ilaha illAllah Muhammadur Rasulullah, it is our right to receive everything that Allah has promised.’ Allah’s promises to us are conditional upon our good deeds, fulfilling the rights of Allah, fulfilling the rights of His creation, and striving to follow His commandments. In this age, Allah Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas for this very purpose; to present the teachings of Islam brought by the Holy Prophetsa – which Muslims have forgotten and are not following correctly – in their true light and to remind them to act upon the true teachings of Islam. For this purpose, Allah Almighty established a Community through the Promised Messiahas.
“The prophecy of the coming of the Messiah and Mahdi was also declared by Allah Almighty in the Holy Quran, in Surah al-Jumu‘ah, and through the Holy Prophetsa in the Hadith. Now, if the Israelis have once again gained control and are committing oppression, then it is Allah’s promise that they will lose this rule, but when this will happen and when those ibadallah as-salihin will arise, only Allah knows best.
“When they arise among us, that Sacred Land will be given to us. The righteous servants are those who pray and perform good deeds; the Land will not be acquired through swords. The Promised Messiahas after his advent, ended such fighting and warfare, in accordance with the prophecy and the Hadith of the Holy Prophetsa. This means that we should focus more on prayers; if we pray, perform good deeds, fulfil the rights of Allah, and fulfil the rights of His creation, then we will also be saved from these oppressors. So, the Palestinians, the Arabs, the Muslims, and all of us need to reflect on how to become righteous servants. Are we to become so by following the Imam of the Age, or at the very least, should we [i.e., the Muslims] not reach a state where our deeds become pleasing to Allah?
“Then we will regain the Sacred Land, but it is evident that the Israelis, who are committing oppression, will eventually lose this Land, when this will happen, only Allah knows best, and then the Land will be given to the righteous people, who will be those fulfilling the rights of Allah. In this era, I believe, the majority of such people will be those who have accepted the Promised Messiahas.
“The oppression that is happening, and the oppression that the Israelis continue to inflict on the Palestinians, will lead to their downfall. I have already conveyed this message to them through various means on several occasions. This is also written in the Psalms, and the same has also been mentioned in Surah al-Anbiya.
“If you want to read the interpretation, and you can read Urdu, then read it in Tafsir-e-Kabir; it is mentioned in both Surah Anbiya and there are also a couple of verses in the first ruku‘ of Surah Bani Israel. […] In this way, you will get a detailed understanding and you will also find references to the Bible, about what it said to the Israelites. […] Coincidentally, both pericopes have been excellently interpreted by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra.”
Subsequently, Huzooraa advised that Lajna Imaillah as well as the Jamaat as a whole should extract the exegesis of these sections – which is already available in both English and Urdu – and distribute it among people. Huzooraa said, this should be done everywhere, as according to the current circumstances, it is highly contemporary.
Kashifa Quddus Sahiba asked Huzooraa about children whose parents passed away at a young age and asked why Allah tests these children.
Huzooraa replied that we do not know in what other ways Allah blesses them. “Not every child comes to you to share the blessings bestowed upon them by Allah. It is Allah’s law of nature that when one falls ill, has a fever, experiences an accident, or encounters other challenges, humans will eventually pass on.” Huzooraa continued, “Often, such incidents happen due to human mistakes. When human errors occur and subsequently cause harm, it is the law of nature.” That is why, Huzooraa stated, Islam makes it mandatory to care for and raise orphans. If one’s parents pass away at a young age, it becomes a responsibility to look after orphans.
Huzooraa further said that the Holy Prophetsa highlighted the high rank of those who care for orphans by saying, “‘I and the one who looks after orphans will be raised on the Day of Judgement like this,’ and he illustrated this by joining his two fingers together, indicating that they will be together at one place. This highlights the elevated status that the Holy Prophetsa has given to those who raise and support orphans.
“Thus, if, for any reason, someone’s parents pass away, leaving behind an orphaned child, the responsibility to care for, educate, and raise the orphans falls upon society, the Jamaat; if they [the orphans] lack in resources, then provisions should be made to support them. If the orphans have property, it should be safeguarded, and when they come of age, it should be handed over to them. If the caregiver lacks the means to provide for the orphans, they can, in an appropriate manner, use resources from their property to support the orphans, just as their parents would have cared for them. When the orphans come of age, their rightful ownership should be transferred to them. This is Allah’s commandment for us.”
Huzooraa then reiterated the hadith he mentioned earlier and added that the Holy Quran has mentioned this in many places. Huzooraa emphasised that Islam has bestowed an important responsibility of looking after orphans, considering it mandatory. “If one fails to fulfil this task, it is deemed a sin. Thus, when parents pass on, it becomes our duty to look after their offspring. This is why Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya has established the Yatama Fund, through which orphans are supported, provided for, and ensure their upbringing. There are also Darul Yatama facilities or orphanages here, in Africa, and other countries, making sure orphans receive proper care and nurture.”
Isha Ahmad Sahiba asked why men do not wear topis during Hajj or Umarah.
Huzooraa smiled and asked, “Why didn’t you ask why they removed their usual attire and only wear an ihram instead? […] It is not only a matter of [not wearing] a topi; they also shave their hair too. During Hajj, men shave their heads unless there is a medical illness that prevents them from doing so; and in such cases, sadaqah and fasts are acceptable alternatives. So, Hajj and Umrah create a situation where humans return to their natural condition and stand before Allah.” Huzooraa further explained that there are worldly etiquettes where people wear good clothes when meeting someone and gave an example of how Europeans used to tip their hats when meeting someone, although this is not a common practice now.
“The religion of Islam teaches,” Huzooraa went on to explain, “that when leaving the home, one should be appropriately dressed, with the head covered; in this, there is wisdom to uphold one’s dignity and honour. When standing before Allah the Almighty, women are commanded to cover their heads and offer their salat; and similarly, men are to do the same – this is another form of worship. However, concerning Hajj, it represents an extreme level of worship. The natural state of humans is expressed through this act, which is why the head is shaved—a concept present in various religions. For instance, among Buddhist or Hindu monks, many choose to cut or completely shave their heads, indicating a shared concept. Every religion introduces the idea of extreme humility, such as shaving one’s hair and presenting oneself completely, and submissively before God. Hence, Hajj and Umrah hold a special status where one approaches God with utmost humility; that’s why neither a topi is worn nor the head is shaved, and men are wrapped in ihram. As for women, they wear their regular clothes.”
Fatiha Khalood said that some people are fans of certain pop groups and asked if it was permissible to hang up their posters in their rooms.
Answering the question, Huzooraa said, “It is not permissible for you, whether it’s a pop song [group] or any other.” Huzooraa added that such things are for worldly people and not for us.
Laiqa Quddus Sahiba, a student of pharmaceutical science, said that during ijtemas and other functions, at times, they are unable to achieve their target. She asked Huzooraa how to deal with it when they feel discouraged.
Huzooraa said that regarding the target, educational standard, or attendance, “Our duty is to make efforts” and keep explaining to people. Huzooraa emphasised the importance of hard work and prayer. He added, “Being discouraged is out of the question; continue to pray and work hard.”
Zaina Ahmad Sahiba asked if waqifa-e-nau should consider a student job.
Huzooraa said that one should refrain from this unless they have a genuine reason. He added that if they desire to work, they should work, volunteer, and dedicate time to the Jamaat so that they can increase in religious knowledge and please God. Huzooraa emphasised, “If someone has a genuine need and is starving, then, if they work, there is no trouble.”
Khawaja Afiya Tariq Sahiba asked how one can be free from becoming addicted to phones.
Huzooraa smiled and jokingly replied, “If one has a phone in their pocket, take it out and throw it against the wall and break it – and the addiction shall subside.”
Huzooraa added, “The matter is that one should not be addicted to anything. Allah has prohibited us from being addicted to anything. However, if one must be addicted to something, then one should be addicted to Allah’s love and service to religion. Offer the five daily prayers attentively – this should be your addiction: to offer salat attentively.”
In light of offering salat, Huzooraa added that being addicted to phones, tablets or other such devices is wrong. One should offer salat on time and attentively. Huzooraa added that one should read the Holy Quran with great focus, especially waqifaat-e-nau, as their parents have dedicated their lives to the service of religion.
Huzooraa explained, “To be a helper of religion, one must first establish a relationship with Allah. To establish a relationship with Allah, one must offer salat attentively.” Additionally, Huzooraa added, that one must read, understand, and follow the Holy Quran, and maintain good morals; “when one incorporates all these habits, they shall have very little time left to spare on their mobile phones. And when you do have time to spend on your phone, utilise it for good things.”
Nayab Sahiba mentioned that Prophet Jesusas was saved from crucifixion and migrated. She asked why there was no mention of him, even though he lived a long life after that.
Huzooraa said, “Incidents are available; one only has to read.” Now, even people have started writing books on this topic. Huzooraa added that the Promised Messiahas has written about this in his book, Jesus in India. Huzooraa mentioned that many accounts exist that show where he migrated, where he stayed, and eventually how he went to Kashmir, where he was buried.
Maliha Khan Sahiba asked why Allah has many attributes. Huzooraa replied, “It is because Allah the Almighty’s powers are limitless; Allah has more attributes than those of which we know.”
Sumayya Tahir Sahiba asked how one can be pleased with Allah’s decision.
Huzooraa explained that one must first establish faith in Allah. He asked her if she believed in God, if she offered her prayers, and if her prayers or desires were ever accepted. To this, the questioner replied in the affirmative. Huzooraa then went on to say that he has, on many occasions, shared narratives about individuals, including children, who have given chanda and received Allah’s blessings. Huzooraa said that such instances must have occurred with her too, to which she replied in the affirmative. Huzooraa explained that if one ponders that Allah’s love is immense and does much for us, then we must obey His commandments. Additionally, Huzooraa added, that when the outcome of something is not as we desired, then we should be content with His will.
Huzooraa reminded her that Allah says that if one is grateful, He will surely give more. (Surah Ibrahim, Ch.14: V.8)
Adeela Ahmad Sahiba said that Allah states in the Holy Quran, “If you give alms openly, it is well [and good]; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you,” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.272), and asked what is the wisdom behind giving alms openly.
Huzooraa said, “At times, people give chanda or sadaqah for show, or they help the needy solely so that people can see how generous they are. For such people, Allah has advised them to give secretly; if one gives secretly, then it’s a good thing. Some people conceal what they give to such a degree that others do not even find out.” At times, in certain situations, if one gives sadaqah, chanda, or helps out the needy or orphans, then others will be reminded to also do the same. Thus, one person’s giving alms openly can have an effect on others to do the same. “However,” Huzooraa said, “if the one giving alms is doing so just so that others say good things about them, then this is wrong.”
In the end, Huzooraa addressed Secretary Waqifaat-e-Nau once again and said that they should, in future, also present an extract of the Promised Messiahas. “It is necessary for tarbiyat.”
Huzooraa then conveyed his salaam and the meeting came to a successful end.
(Report prepared by Al Hakam)