On 1 February, a group of 53 men from Niedersachsen, Germany had a mulaqat with Hazrat Amirul Momineen, may Allah be his Helper, where they had the chance to ask a number of questions on numerous and diverse matters.
The first question was asked by a young boy who asked what the purpose and wisdom was behind delivering the current series of Friday Sermons on the Badri Companionsra. Answering the young boy, Huzooraa said, “Firstly, the purpose of this is so that the history of the Companionsra, especially the Badri Companionsra, can be compiled.” Secondly, Huzooraa added, “The Holy Prophetsa said, ‘My companions are like stars; whichever of them you use as a guide, you will be rightly guided.’ Thus, they are great examples and a source of guidance for us.”
Following this question, one child expressed if it was permissible for one to desire shahadat [martyrdom]. Upon this, Huzooraa said that it was permissible, however, “To learn religion, remain steadfast and to strive to attain God’s pleasure is also a type of shahadat. Thus, you should desire such a shahadat whereby you learn religion well and work to spread God’s religion.”
Concerning the recent outbreak of the coronavirus in China, one nasir asked if there is any reference of such a virus in the revelations of the Promised Messiahas, such as the plague. Answering the question, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that there is no mention of the coronavirus in the revelations of the Promised Messiahas, however, Huzooraa said, “We do find mention of other calamities, such as the World War, tsunamis and earthquakes, yet people do not turn towards God.”
Thus, Huzooraa further said that such calamities occur so that man can turn his attention towards God. Further adding to this, Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa said, “We cannot compare the coronavirus to the epidemic plague that was spread across India where millions of people died.”
A question was asked regarding the manner in which one can serve their parents if they live far away or in another country, whether it be for work or other reasons. Responding to the question, Huzooraa said, “One can help them financially, or when you have the opportunity or days off, one can visit their parents, fulfil their needs and show them respect.”
Succeeding this, one khadim asked Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa how we should answer those who say that Islam is a very unattractive religion. Answering the young khadim, Huzooraa said, “Islam never claimed that it would follow the trend. Prophets are sent to the world so that they can guide people, not so that they follow people.” Huzooraa further added:
“When the Holy Prophetsa came with the message of Islam, the people of Mecca were frustrated and, consequently, [Muslims] had to migrate. Likewise, Prophet Mosesas faced many adversities and trials, which forced him to flee from the Pharaoh. Again, Prophet Jesusas also faced opposition and, according to our belief, migrated to Kashmir. Thus, in actuality, only those who have forgotten God and are attracted to this materialistic world say that religion is unattractive.”
The sitting came to a close and the group was fortunate to have a group photo with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa.