Friday Sermon
21 February 2025
Musleh-e-Maud: The Prophecy and the Man
After reciting the tashahhud, ta‘awwuz, and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa stated:
Yesterday was 20 February and within the Jamaat, this day is known as the day of the prophecy of Musleh-e-Maud [the Promised Reformer]. Around this date, gatherings are held in the Jamaat to commemorate the prophecy of Musleh-e-Maud. This is a lengthy prophecy of the Promised Messiahas, in which the birth of a son and his characteristics are outlined. This was published in the form of an announcement on 20 February 1886. In this prophecy, the revealed words in relation to some characteristics of this son are as follows: “He will be extremely intelligent and understanding.” It further says: “He will be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge.” (Aina-e-Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 5, p. 647)
In accordance with this, Allah the Almighty blessed the Promised Messiahas with a son, who possessed these characteristics, and his name was Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad. He is also referred to as “Musleh-e-Maud”. Even children in our Jamaat who are acquainted with our history – since adults are generally more acquainted with it – are very well aware of this prophecy. Gatherings are held among the Atfal [auxiliary organisation for boys between the ages of 7 and 15] and the Khuddam [auxiliary organisation for young men between the ages of 15 and 40].
As it is stated in the prophecy that the boy would be filled with secular and spiritual knowledge, Allah the Almighty personally illumined his mind and filled it with knowledge. In his secular education, he merely reached the primary level; or perhaps not even that. Indeed, he attended school; however, Hazrat Musleh-eMaudra has written himself that he never passed his exams. He was very weak in secular subjects. However, Allah the Almighty enabled him to perform such intellectual, religious and administrative tasks that even the most learned appear to be school children in comparison. His Khilafat, which spanned 52 years, is living proof of this. He delivered countless speeches and penned countless articles on numerous secular topics. There is no end to his knowledge of religion and the Holy Quran. He also delivered numerous speeches and penned countless articles on secular topics and national and international politics. His articles and speeches on history were of the highest standard. He also analysed economic affairs and spoke about various systems across the world such as socialism, communism and capitalism. He also delivered a speech [on this], which was later published in the form of a book. This is available among the literature of the Jamaat. He even discussed matters relating to the military and warfare, science and other academic topics in such a manner that it leaves a person astounded. He delivered many speeches to non-Muslims, who were compelled to praise his depth of understanding and knowledge. These articles and speeches span thousands of pages. It is impossible to detail them in a short time. As a matter of fact, it is even impossible to merely introduce them. At present, I will mention only a few as an example to serve as a basic introduction.
Topics such as “The Economic System of Islam”, “The New World Order” and “The Outset of Dissension in Islam” are frequently discussed in the Jamaat. However, I will introduce some other topics, which people are generally not acquainted with.
Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra gave advice and spoke about the future of Türkiye and the duties of the Muslims in 1919, i.e., in the early days of his Khilafat. The summary or introduction to this is that whilst benefitting from every occasion to unite the nation, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, gave extremely wise advice and wrote this book on 18 September 1919, at a time when the Turkish government was in peril.
In order to unite and gather the Muslims of differing views, he gave the guiding principle, “In my view, the foundation of this gathering should solely be (a meeting was to take place regarding the Turkish Government) that removing a government that claims to be Muslim, or diminishing it to the status of to a state, is an act that every sect calling itself Muslim disapproves of and even finds unpalatable to consider.”
Furthermore, regarding the Ottoman Empire and the Islamic centre, Hijaz, his guidance is as follows:
“The national pride of the Arabs has come to life and their desire for independence has awakened. […] After 1300 years they have once again become masters over their homeland and have proved their right to govern through their administrative skills, and sense of justice and equity. No new suggestions in this regard will be successful; nor should any sensible person entertain such ideas. […]”
He also gave the following advice for the betterment of Türkiye:
“Mere gatherings and lectures will not suffice, nor will collecting money to publish advertisements and tracts. Rather, a systematic effort must be made across all countries of the world to achieve this objective. This is an era of knowledge, (he stated that this is an age of intellect), and people demand evidence for everything. Therefore, to accomplish this difficult task, proper organisation and planning are essential. Engaging in futile activities is not the way of the wise.”
This is something Muslims must reflect upon even today. At that time, it was only a matter concerning the Turkish government. Today, more than ever before, the Muslim world and the Arab world must recognise that slogans and meetings alone will not be enough – practical steps must be taken. While explaining the reason behind the hostility and prejudice against the Turks and Islam, he stated:
“Misconceptions about Islam have been instilled in their hearts (i.e., the hearts of opponents of Islam) for generations that they do not consider it to be like other religions. Rather, they view it as a belief system that turns human beings into animals, and into depraved beasts for that matter. They do not run away from any religion aside from Islam; they merely consider them detestable. It is only Islam that they fear (i.e., the opponents of Islam), and see its progress as not only an impediment to their culture and way of life, but also as something fatal for humanity.”
Nowadays, this narrative is being pushed even more forcefully. In every country, right-wing groups and others are running major campaigns against Islam and Muslims. To change this situation, he provided the following guidance:
“It is for the Muslims to repent and turn back to God Almighty, to understand Islam and come to recognise its essential truths, and make them known to others so as to bring to an end the hardships that afflict them. […] If they have not yet propagated their faith, nor obeyed the commandment of God to spread these unparalleled teachings throughout the world, (this is what practically happened. What Islam did they display?), they ought to act now for the sake of their own survival (if they wish to live, they must act now), which is conditional on the propagation of Islam.” (Turkey ka Mustaqbil, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 4, pp. 16-18)
Thus, Muslims must adopt this very same rule; otherwise, the anti-Islamic world will begin surrounding the Muslim countries. It is doing so even now.
Then an opportunity arose at the “All-Parties Conference.” For this programme, he gave guidance by the name of a speech called “An Observation”. This pamphlet was written by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra on 13 July 1925, in order to present it at a gathering of the All-India Muslim Parties Conference. The organisers of the Conference desired that the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community attend in person and express his views. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra wrote in response, saying “I myself am unable to attend, but I shall present my opinions through my representative.” In this pamphlet, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra first stated the religious and political definitions of Islam. He stated that Islam firstly has a religious definition, regarding, which every person has a right to define as they see fit. Secondly, there is the political definition of Islam. In the political sphere, “who will be viewed as Muslims” can only be answered by Hindus, Christians, and Sikhs, who have interacted with Muslims on a political level. This is because if the followers of one [Muslim] sect consider themselves to be Muslims – even if other [Muslim] sects consider them to be non-Muslims – when the Hindus and Sikhs engage with them on a political level, they will include all of them under the banner of Islam. And the actions that they commit against one people, they will commit against others as well. (They will consider every sect to be Muslim.) Thus, their interests are politically the same, and if Muslims do not understand this point, then others will slowly devour them one by one and Muslims will come to their senses at a time when it cannot help them anymore.
This is why Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra presented this golden rule in front of all the Muslim sects: in political affairs, Muslims must show complete unity and concord, because if you politically ostracise a sect, how can you expect them not to turn to other nations. After this, he gave several suggestions regarding the progress, propagation and political strength of Islam, and stated that for the strength and proliferation of Islam, it is necessary that an outreach system is implemented throughout India, and a path to the mutual unity of all these outreach organisations be sought, because the life of Islam is predicated upon tabligh [propagation]. And it is necessary to create a complete system for this. And now the scope of this work is the entire world. In addition, for advancements in the industrial and educational fields, specific departments must be established. Every department should have its own objective, and every year, it should be analysed as to how much progress has been made. This is now the responsibility of established Islamic governments. Furthermore, the immediate establishment of a committee is also necessary, which can examine how Muslims can be freed from the influence of other nations, and to examine which are those core professions that possess very few experts who are Muslims. Then this committee should try to fill this shortage.
Similarly, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra also emphasised the importance of establishing a Muslim bank and said that if a [banking] system without interest can be developed – and it certainly can be – then our Jamaat is also ready to be part of it. He also proposed the establishment of a treasury and a Muslim Chamber of Commerce. Furthermore, except for military court cases, he emphasised the need for all other disputes amongst Muslims to be mutually decided by a local council instead of going to a court – where there are non-Muslim governments. He stated that to establish peace, it is necessary that there be no interference in religious affairs. With the utmost patience, allow others to work in accordance with their own beliefs, and for us to work according to our own beliefs.
Regarding business, industry and trades, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra observed that “commerce is the sector that Muslims have neglected the most, and in terms of business, have been reduced to mere servants of the Hindus.” While it was true in that era, it’s even more evident in the modern age: Muslims have become subservient to wealthy and powerful corporations of the world, whether they be Jewish, Christian or of any other faith. At that time, it was a similar situation. But even in today’s age, Muslims are becoming subservient to the world’s governments and businesses, as I mentioned. Hence, Muslim nations ought to reflect on this. For the Muslims, there is a great need to focus on the advancement in trade, and commerce innovation.
In the end, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra emphasised the importance of Muslims setting aside their internal conflicts and focusing on working together in mutual harmony, saying, “I conclude this address by once again emphasising: all our efforts shall be made redundant and all our plans shall prove fruitless if we fail to grasp the fact that despite calling each other disbelievers, in the eyes of the world, we are all Muslims – a loss to one of us is a collective loss for all. Thus, we should leave religious edicts out of the arena of political discussions and affairs, because they are beyond the scope of our activities. In no way does Islam forbid you from working amicably with those whom you deem to be non-Muslims in order to fulfil your political duties.
“If the Holy Prophetsa of Islam could come to an understanding with the Jews when faced with opposition from the idolaters, then there is no reason why, for the sake of the political well-being – nay – political security of Muslims, those sects who call themselves Muslims cannot work together for this cause. If at this great hour, we cannot come together as one, it will prove that our disagreements are not for the sake of Islam, but are personal grievances that serve only our egos. May God Almighty save us from such depravity.” (All-Parties Conference ke Programme par Aik Nazr, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 9, pp. 8-10)
In Pakistan and some Muslim countries, this is the general situation. Especially against Ahmadis, who according to them are disbelievers – notwithstanding the fact that every sect calls each other disbelievers – this is precisely why such a negative impression of Islam is developing throughout the non-Muslim world, to the detriment of the Muslims. Hence, this is a point that even today the Muslims and Muslim nations need to understand.
Regarding the situation of India, when Pakistan and India were one country, there was a Round Table Conference. The question of who would represent the Muslims at this conference arose. The British Government appointed a commission to evaluate the prospect of an independent India, tasked with reporting every ten years on the extent to which the people could be given such powers as allow them to establish their own autonomous government. This commission’s first president was a British barrister named Sir John Simon. (Musalmanan-e-Hind ke Imtihan ka Waqt, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 10, pp. 2-3)
Nonetheless, this commission continued to deliberate and debate over various issues during this time, and Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra would also guide the Muslims by sharing his detailed thoughts on different occasions. Thus, a Round Table Conference was convened which is mentioned in our history with reference to Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra. The report presented by the commission set up by the British government did not meet the expectations of the people of India, and so they refused to accept it. Against this backdrop, the British Government announced a Round Table Conference, the details of which stated that the representatives of both Britain and India could gather in one place and deliberate on the political future of India.
On this occasion, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra promptly wrote an article to guide Muslims, advising them to set aside their internal divisions and differences and work together in unity for the national interest. Only through this approach would they be able to successfully obtain their rights while confronting opposing nations. They should strive to send representatives to the conference who could truly fulfil their duty of representing the nation. On this occasion, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra also advised the government to select representatives in consultation with political parties so that people would willingly accept the decisions made at the conference.
With regards to safeguarding the rights of Muslims, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra stated: “In my view, it is time now for the All-Muslim Parties Conference to act. Merely publishing the demands of Muslims is not enough. If the participants of the Round Table Conference disregard these demands, then the decisions of the All-Parties Conference would hold no value. Therefore, this is the time to alert the government about the negative consequences of wrongfully electing participants, and inform the public about its dangers, and to not rest until the decision about Muslim representation is made through Muslim elected representatives and their important political organisations.” (Gol Mez Conference Aur Musalmano ki Numaindagi, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 11, pp. 13-14)
These suggestions were taken very seriously in many circles, given the circumstances at that time.
Then, regarding the political conditions of India at that time, he wrote an article proposing some solutions. Shortly after the Simon Commission’s report was published, which was mentioned earlier, the British government decided to convene the Round Table Conference in London to consider various aspects of India’s political evolution and propose a future course of action. Since the Simon Commission had not fully considered Muslim rights, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was concerned and wanted to ensure that Muslim rights would not be ignored in the future. Therefore, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra deemed it appropriate to comment on the Simon Commission report at this time, highlighting its deficiencies and presenting such a solution to India’s problems that would allow all communities to live peacefully together in harmony in the future. Thus he stated:
“Being a religious person, I am not so much connected with politics as are those who may be called professional politicians but my religion makes it all the more obligatory on me to work for peace and goodwill. My being unconnected with politics, perhaps also imparts to me a sense of impartiality, which enables me to look at things more dispassionately than those who are actually taking part in the struggle on one side or the other. In view, therefore, of the coming Round Table Conference, I have thought it advisable to express my views on the recommendations of the Simon Commission and other matters connected with the present political problem of India and I hope that the unbiased and independent thinkers of both the countries will give my suggestions a dispassionate and sympathetic consideration.” (Some Suggestions for the Solution of the Indian Problem [1930], p. 3)
In his analysis, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra thoroughly discussed the rights and demands of Muslims, highlighting the rationale behind them. Along with this, he presented an extremely sensible and satisfactory solution to India’s political problems. This comprehensive analysis was immediately sent for publication in the English language so that participants in the Round Table Conference could read and benefit from it. The Muslim representatives especially benefited from it. Consequently, for the first time, they were able to successfully present their unified demands at the conference – it proved beneficial during that period. This had a profound impact on influential people in England, and they were compelled to acknowledge the special status of Muslims in India and recognise the rationale and utility of their demands.
This book by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra became very popular in both India and England, and was read with great interest and attention, and many reputable politicians and journalists paid glowing tributes to him. (Hindustan ke Maujudah Sayasi Masalah ka Hal, Anwar-ul-Uloom, Vol. 11, pp. 18-19)
Many incidents are recorded in Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat. This analysis, as I mentioned, was very well-received in both circles, was read with great attention, and I will present [some reviews] on it as examples:
Lord Meston, former Governor of UP, said: “I am grateful to you for sending me the most interesting work by the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community (he is writing this to the sender). I have previously read several of his works with interest. I am hopeful that reading this book will be a source of pleasure and benefit for me.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 214)
Lieutenant Commander Kenworthy, Member of Parliament, said: “I am very grateful that you sent me the book Some Suggestions for the Solution of the Indian Problem. I have read it with great interest.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 214)
Sir Malcolm Hailey, Governor of UP Province and former Governor of Punjab, wrote to the Imam of London Mosque: “I am very grateful for the book you sent me on behalf of the Imam of the Ahmadiyya Community. I am well acquainted with the conditions of the Ahmadiyya Community and fully understand and appreciate the role they are playing in solving India’s important issues. I am confident this book will be useful for me, and I will read it with great interest.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 215)
Then, Sir John. O. Miller said: “I sincerely thank you for sending this small book containing the proposals of the Imam of Ahmadiyya Community for solving India’s problems. This is the only detailed critique of the Simon Commission’s proposals that has come to my attention. I will not comment on those details where difference of opinion is inevitable, but I commend the sincerity, rationality, and clarity with which His Holiness, the Imam of Ahmadiyya Community, has expressed his Community’s views, and I am very impressed by His Holiness, (Hazrat) Mirza Bashir-ud-Din’s lofty thinking.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 215)
Then, the Honorable Peterson, (CISCE), said: “Thank you very much for sending the book Some Suggestions for the Solution of the Indian Problem. I have not had time to finish it yet, but I do hope to complete it in a few days. From what I have read thus far, it certainly appears to be an interesting and valuable effort to explain the current situation. The Muslim perspective has been presented very clearly. I hope to meet soon,” and he continues writing to the sender. (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 217)
Dr Zia-ud-Din Sahib of Aligarh said: “I read the book by His Holiness with great interest. I request you to ensure its wide circulation in Europe. Every Member of Parliament should certainly receive a copy, and one copy should be sent to every newspaper editor in England. This book needs more circulation in England than in India. His Holiness has rendered an important service to Islam.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 218)
These non-Ahmadis are writing that a great service has been rendered for Islam, whereas here, non-Ahmadi sects deem Ahmadis to be non-Muslims.
Seth Haji Abdullah Haroon Sahib, MLA Karachi, said: “In my opinion, among all the books written on politics in India, Some Suggestions for the Solution of the Indian Problem is among the best works.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 218)
Allama Dr Sir Muhammad Iqbal writes, “I have read some of the thoughtful analysis – it is excellent and comprehensive.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 218)
The Inqilab newspaper from Lahore wrote, “With this thoughtful analysis, Mirza Sahib has rendered a great service to Muslims. Mirza Sahib has done the work which should have been done by large Islamic organisations.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 218)
The Siyasat newspaper from Lahore writes, “If we put religious differences aside and look at what Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad Sahib has accomplished in the field of writing and publication – both in terms of volume and benefit – it is worthy of every praise. The political principles which he established in having his community walk side by side with the general Muslim population and finding success in this endeavour under his leadership cannot go without being lauded by every fair-minded Muslim and pious individual.” It goes on, “An entire generation can testify to his political insight. He has done commendable work in assembling Muslims in response to the Nehru Report, presenting the Islamic perspective before the Simon Commission, having fact-based discourse from an Islamic perspective on contemporary issues, and publishing books replete with arguments in favour of the rights of Muslims. The book under discussion is his critical analysis of the Simon Report, which has been written in the English language. Upon reading it, one is able to ascertain the wide breadth of his knowledge. His style of expression is easy to understand, convincing, and his words are clear.” (Tarikh-e-Ahmadiyyat, Vol. 5, p. 218)
These were some of the reviews.
Then he also wrote about Islam’s solutions to the current unrest in the world and he delivered speeches on world peace. I will mention these in summary: With world peace in mind, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered an enlightening speech on 9 October 1946 at 5:30 in the evening in the large courtyard of Art Park Road in Delhi. Hundreds of non-Ahmadis and non-Muslim dignitaries were in attendance to hear this speech. They listened attentively and calmly to His Holiness’ address. This was published for the first time in Al Fazl on 15 April 1961. The Tej Delhi newspaper wrote the following note about the speech in its 14 October 1946 edition:
“The Ahmadi leader, Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmad mentioned in his speech that the issue of peace and tranquillity is as old as human civilisation itself, as it is deeply connected to human nature. If it is to be established, then enmity and hatred must be eliminated. The matter is not political but has to do with morality. If we remain cognisant of God’s Might and abandon love for wealth and greed, then in place of hatred and greed, we can establish sentiments of brotherhood and love. The disputes in the religious world can be brought to an end so long as we learn to respect the sentiments of others and develop tolerance within ourselves. Just as religious matters require patience it is also necessary for this to exist in worldly matters as well.” This was an issue during the time of Muslims and Hindus and with Christians as well. He said, “We must end national and racial disputes and establish a universal spirit of brotherhood.” (Dunya ki Maujudah Bechaini ka Islam Kya Ilaj Pesh Karta Hai, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 18, pp. 11-12)
This was a brief introduction to this book.
Then he wrote a book responding to allegations, saying that we must assist oppressed people even if they beat us or cause us harm. This was a response to a statement made by a newspaper in Delhi. The newspaper wrote that Ahmadis support Pakistan despite other Muslims not having treated them well. They were inciting Ahmadis regarding their support for Pakistan even though Muslims did not treat them well. It wrote, “When Pakistan will be formed, Muslims will treat them the same way they were treated in Kabul. Then Ahmadis will ask to be made part of India.” This was the newspaper’s opinion.
On 16 May 1947, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra gave his opinion on the matter after the Maghrib prayer, saying, “It is our duty to help those people who are oppressed, even if they beat us or cause us harm.” He also said, “Even if our enemy is cruel and unjust towards us, we will still act with justice.” This address by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was also published in book form in Qadian. (Hamara Farz Hai ke Hum Mazlum Qaum ki Madad Karein Chahe wo Humein Marein ya Dukh Pohanchain, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 18, p. 19)
Even these days, some people raise the question, asking why Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra supported the formation of Pakistan. This address serves as a response. Based on the circumstances at that time, it was necessary to help the Muslims, and the Jamaat is always at the forefront of helping Muslims. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra did not deny that the Jamaat would be oppressed. He said that no matter what happened, at the time the Muslims required help and Ahmadis should support them because it is necessary for us to support Muslims.
He delivered a lecture on the future of Pakistan, the summary of which is that after the creation of Pakistan, he delivered an enlightening lecture in Lahore, the capital of Punjab, on the topic of the future of Pakistan. It was attended by Lahore’s renowned scholars and intellectuals, who expressed their appreciation for these lectures. The first five lectures were delivered at the Maynard Hall in Lahore and the sixth lecture was delivered in the University of Lahore. It is said regarding the lecture on 7 December 1947 at the Maynard Hall in Lahore that Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra was unable to cover certain aspects of the topic due to the shortage of time. Hence, for the greater benefit, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra published the topic in Al Fazl from his memory. Then, on 9 December 1947 it was published in the Daily Al Fazl that was printed in Lahore. In this address, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra provided invaluable principles and gave advice and suggestions about how Pakistan could make progress from the standpoint of vegetation, agriculture, livestock, and wealth. (Pakistan ka Mustaqbil, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 9, p. 8)
This lecture became very popular.
He also shared his views on the topic of Islamic traditions or the Islamic constitution and regulations. After migrating from Qadian to Lahore, this was the last of a series of lectures about the future of Pakistan. Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud delivered this lecture in University Hall, Lahore, on the topic of Islamic traditions or Islamic constitution and regulations, as mentioned before. This lecture was published as a pamphlet on 18 February 1948 for the benefit of all. It is currently in volume 19 of Anwar-ul-Ulum. In this address, while elaborating on Islamic traditions, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra shed light on what type of constitution or tradition should be established in Pakistan. He said, “In the Pakistani constitution, if Muslims – who will be in the majority – will pass a law that says that the laws for Muslims in Pakistan will be made according to the Quran and sunnah [practice of the Holy Prophetsa] and it will not be permissible to create laws contrary to that, then although the foundations of the government will not be entirely Islamic because it cannot be, however, the operation of the government will become Islamic. Its laws relating to Muslims will also become Islamic and that is what Islam demands. Islam does not say that Hindus, Christians, and Jews must be made to act according to Islam; in fact, this would be in stark contradiction to Islam.” (Dastur-e-Islami ya Islami Aa‘ieen-e-Asasi, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 19, pp. 10-11)
Islam gives freedom to every religion and every person. Today, these people say that an Islamic constitution and laws have been established in an Islamic country, whereas practically, it was Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra who initiated it and gave his suggestions for it. Injustices are carried out in the name of Islam, whereas he drew attention towards acting according to the Islamic teachings and creating a constitution in accordance with those teachings, as I mentioned. If Ahmadis were so opposed to Islam as the clerics of today claim, then what need did Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra have to give this advice and draw attention to this? In any case, these days, so-called clerics are trying to hold the country hostage. May Allah the Almighty bring about a right-minded individual who can save the country from their evil ploys and bring the country upon the path of success.
Then there is a treatise titled: “Pakistan is a Brick from the Edifice of Islam that we will establish in the World.” This was a lecture delivered by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra at the Town Hall in Quetta [Pakistan]. Following the creation of Pakistan, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra delivered six lectures in Lahore on the topic of “The future of Pakistan”, as mentioned earlier. A short while after this, he toured various central towns of West Pakistan and addressed thousands of citizens of Pakistan on the topic of how to strengthen Pakistan, explaining to them through his profound wisdom and constructive viewpoint. In June 1948, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra travelled to Quetta, where he delivered comprehensive and enlightening public lectures in which he pointed out important matters relating to national interest for the benefit of all the residents of Pakistan. He advised them by outlining in great detail their responsibilities to their country and through his spirited effort and words filled with love, his boundless power of faith and unwavering commitment breathed a new spirit and life into hundreds and thousands of dejected and sorrowful hearts. This address was delivered by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra on 4 July 1948 at the Quetta Town Hall on the topic of “Pakistan and its Future Prospect”. This was published in Al Fazl on 23 March 1956 and had a significant impact on people. (Pakistan Aik Eent Hai Us Islami Imarat ki Jisse Humne Dunya Main Qaim Karna Hai, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 19, p. 19)
It was priceless advice on the topic of the advancement of Pakistan and its consolidation.
The Ahmadiyya Jamaat in Sargodha organised a public gathering at the Company Bagh on 11 November 1949 on the topic of “The Advancement of Pakistan and its Consolidation”. In those days we could hold such gatherings, but now we are prohibited from even holding Tarbiyati [related to moral training] gatherings. This gathering held a special distinction in that it was the first occasion where Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra gave his invaluable advice and guidance to the thousands of Ahmadis and non-Ahmadis of Sargodha and its surroundings, who had gathered to benefit from this occasion. In an enthralling manner, he advised them to abide by the Islamic injunctions and to strive to further strengthen Pakistan. The audience was engrossed in the speech of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra from the beginning to the end and they took great interest in it.
With regards to being mindful of the safety and protection of Pakistan, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra advised: “We, ourselves were the ones who prayed, ‘O God, grant us this country’, now it is in our hands to ensure its establishment and progress. If we fail to understand our duties, then we will suffer humiliation in this life and the next. Allah the Almighty will say: ‘I had bestowed this country to you upon your request. But you allowed it to be destroyed.’” This is exactly what the religious clerics are doing today and are causing its destruction. To increase the revenue of Pakistan, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra, advised all factions of society to pay taxes honestly and encouraged that as many youths as possible should join the army for the protection of Pakistan. In those days, the newspapers were claiming that the Government of Pakistan was not doing anything to establish an Islamic government. “But we asked for Pakistan in the name of Islam.” Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra imparted guidance with great foresight. And in the end, stated:
“Simply raising slogans does not reflect a nation’s success. If, at this time, everyone begins to raise slogans for Allah’s greatness, or ‘long live Pakistan, and perish India,’ this will not cause even a mouse in India to perish. (A mere slogan is ineffective.) However, if everyone begins to abide by all the things that I have stated (i.e., what he mentioned in his speech), if businessmen pay taxes, if commuters stop evading paying for their train tickets, if the youth focus their attention on seeking an education instead of wasting their time in vain pursuits, if strong youth join the army, if officials abstain from taking bribes and conduct all their work with integrity and honest effort, then Pakistan will continue to strengthen in practical terms.” However, today, we see that conditions have deteriorated even further. He further states, “Even if you never raise the slogan ‘long live Pakistan,’ Pakistan will still flourish.” (Pakistan ki Taraqqi Aur Us ke Istihkam ke Silsilah Main Zarrin Nasa’ih, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 21, pp. 18-20)
Whether one raises this slogan or not, Pakistan will demonstrate its success.
There are also many topics pertaining to warfare. As an example, I have chosen in light of the situation of Russia and the ongoing conflict. There is an analysis of the incident when the USSR entered Poland during the Second World War. When the USSR entered Poland during the Second World War, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra composed an article, which was subsequently published in the Daily Al Fazl on 21 September 1939.
In this article, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra meticulously examined the reasons behind the USSR’s entry into Poland and the objectives it sought to achieve. He observed: “USSR’s intention was to divide Poland, and their aims do not seem to be noble. It formed an alliance with Germany and was determined to send its forces into Poland in order to ease Germany’s occupation of Poland and bring about an end to the Polish government without the need for bloodshed. Should this strategy fail, the alliance [between Germany and the USSR] would pave the way for Germany to launch an attack on Poland. If other nations refrain from intervening, then all is well and good [for their cause], otherwise Germany would crush Poland, and both countries would then carve up the country between them.”
Moreover, in his article, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra offered profound insight into the future course of events following the war, imparting his sagacious and wise guidance to the Allied nations. Thus, Poland was ultimately spared. (Rus Aur Maujudah Jang, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 15, pp. 13-14)
As mentioned already, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud’sra insight into international affairs was profound, and he has written about various other related topics. As I have pointed out, he has written religious literature, such as his commentaries, in an extraordinarily vast number. His Friday sermons, speeches delivered at various gatherings of the Jamaat and addresses on various occasions are a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom.
The previous version of Tafsir-e-Kabir, which originally spanned 10 volumes, has now been expanded with additional notes of Hazrat Musleh-e-Maudra and published in 15 volumes with subjects being explained in even greater detail. Furthermore, the commentary on additional chapters, based on further notes have been obtained and they are under review. Once these are published, it is likely that it may extend to 30 volumes because it spans 30,000 pages.
Thus, the promise made by Allah the Almighty in the prophecy to the Promised Messiahas has been fulfilled in every aspect through Hazrat Mirza Bashir-ud-Din Mahmud Ahmadra. I have shared only a few examples with you. We should strive to read this rich repository of knowledge and wisdom. Many aspects of it are highly relevant to the circumstances of today and we can derive immense benefit from it. May Allah the Almighty grant us the ability to do so.
(Official Urdu transcript published in the Daily Al Fazl International, 14 March 2025, pp. 6-7. Translated by The Review of Religions.)