We are pleased to announce the release of a special documentary on the Mubarak Mosque which is situated in The Hague, Netherlands. This was the first purpose-built mosque in the Netherlands and one of the earliest in Europe, carrying a rich history of resilience and divine blessings.
The documentary takes viewers on a journey through the mosque’s foundation, starting with the laying of the first stone by Chaudhry Zafrullah Khanra , a companion of the Promised Messiahas, in 1955.
However, the path was not without challenges. The mosque received significant attention in the media, and while some were intrigued by the idea of a mosque in the heart of the Netherlands, there were also strong oppositional voices. Leaflets and letters were distributed by opposing factions, cautioning people against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. In the face of this opposition, the Ahmadiyya Community remained resolute, sending trained missionaries from Pakistan to the Netherlands to spread the true and peaceful teachings of Islam. These missionaries lived humble lives, often making great personal sacrifices, marking the beginning of the “Jihad with the pen” in the Netherlands.
A turning point: The arson attack
One of the most dramatic moments in the mosque’s history was an arson attack in 1987 that nearly destroyed it. A resident of the mosque recounts how they awoke to the sound of breaking glass and the sight of black smoke. Despite the threat, the fire was extinguished, and no lives were lost. Through the prayers of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihrh IV, the mosque was not only rebuilt but expanded to accommodate ten times its original capacity, fulfilling a divine promise made in one of his sermons. Where only 50 worshippers could once gather, now 500 can offer prayers.
Visits from spiritual leaders and royalty
The Mubarak Mosque holds a unique place in history as it is one of only two mosques in the West, alongside the Fazl Mosque in London, to have been visited by four Khulafa. This makes it a spiritual landmark for Ahmadi Muslims worldwide.
The documentary also highlights a visit of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands in 2006, marking another significant moment in the mosque’s history, as the Dutch royal family has shown respect towards the mosque.
The documentary also touches on another crucial moment when Hazrat Khalifatul Masih IVrh, having recently emigrated to England, delivered a historic sermon from this mosque in 1984, challenging the oppressive regime of Pakistan’s dictator, Zia ul Haq. In his address, he declared that while Zia had turned against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Ahmadis had the support of God. His powerful words, “We have a Helper, a God, you have no one. If our God comes to our aid, you will be shattered into pieces” would prove prophetic as Zia met his end in a mysterious plane crash, an end foreshadowed in that very sermon.
Architectural and spiritual legacy
The Mubarak Mosque is also noteworthy for its architectural evolution. It was originally designed to blend with the surrounding buildings but it lacked a minaret to avoid standing out too much. However, after many years, council permission was granted for the addition of a minaret, further enhancing the mosque’s prominence. Notably, a special stone from the mosque in Qadian was placed within the walls. The documentary also recounts the mosque’s unique construction journey. During renovations, an unused basement area was discovered beneath the mosque, which later became a vital part of the expanded space, housing offices, a library and other facilities.
The mosque’s role today
Today, the Mubarak Mosque continues to serve as a beacon Islam in the heart of Europe. From here the Dutch speaking world is introduced to the true Islam; Ahmadiyyat. The mosque stands as a testament to the perseverance of our Jamaat that has faced numerous trials but has always emerged stronger through divine support.
Please view this documentary here in the following link: https://youtu.be/AI-VMkd8b-E?feature=shared