Al Hakam asked Ataul Awwal Abbasi Sahib, Head of MTA Canada Studios, to recount the experience of participating in a milestone event, the live audio and video link of over 200 Atfal of Canada with their beloved Imam, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa. Below is his account
Ataul Awwal Abbasi, Head of MTA Canada Studios
15 August 2020 marked a historic day in the history of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya. It was the first time ever that a Khalifa of the Promised Messiahas held an online virtual class.
This is my personal account on leading up to this historical day as a team member of MTA International Canada Studios, who were to facilitate this class technically from Baitul Islam Compounds in Peace Village, Canada.
This day would be etched forever in the memory of the fortunate 224 mayar-e-kabir Atfal who took part in this august gathering, but there were also 23 other members of MTA Canada team that will not forget this historical event, I happen to be one of those and here is how it unfolded:
In late June 2020, I received a telephone call from Naib Sadr Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada, Adnan Rabbani Sahib who excitedly told me that the private secretariat in London had asked Sadr Sahib Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Canada to submit a proposal for an online class with Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa.
He explained that MTA Canada would potentially facilitate the technical aspect of this stream. I instantly contacted my supervisor in London, Munir Odeh Sahib (Director of Production, MTA International) to seek guidance and see what the possibilities could be.
This was a challenging proposal since it was to happen amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, where the world was going through a change and how normal and usual things were being transformed to a new norm.
Huzooraa had instructed that a proposal be sent to see how this would be possible with the Canadian Government and Provincial guidelines being fully met.
Further discussions with Zubair Afzal Sahib, Sadr MKAC took place to see what would be feasible and how it could be made possible with the Covid-19 guidelines of government, as well as technical instructions received from Munir Odeh Sahib in London. Sadr Sahib was keen to involve as many Atfal as possible due to this unique opportunity of being in the presence of their beloved Imam, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
Due to technical, security and Covid-19 constraints, the limitations were set that this would only be feasible from one location; hence it was now time to find that suitable site that could accommodate a decent number of Atfal and be technically suitable. After looking at one other location, it was conclusively decided that there would be no better solution then Aiwan-e-Tahir in Peace Village as that also housed the MTA Canada Studios. This would allow us to use the equipment and control room in the studios, rather than a mobile setup used for outdoor broadcasts.
The following six weeks, in which the proposal was sent for approval and then the dates being graciously given by Huzooraa for the class to take place, have been the most challenging time for me that I can recall. The thought of Huzooraa viewing what we are showing him over the internet started daunting me. We had to ensure that technically, there was no risk of failure; however, we all know that this isn’t possible, no matter how advanced systems and technology have become just one slight hiccup in a chain of operations could falter the whole outcome.
As Ahmadi Muslims, we are all too aware that the only guarantor for success is prayer. No matter how fragile a system is or how weak the technical capability of the operators are, Allah the Almighty, following sincere prayers, will ensure that the setup becomes as robust as ever.
Nevertheless, a weak individual like me still garnished a thought in the back of my mind; “What if something goes wrong and we end up wasting our beloved Huzoor’saa precious time?” “What if this historic event ends up becoming historic for all the wrong reasons?”
As time drew closer, multiple tests were done with Munir Odeh Sahib in London and at no point was I given any comfort from the tests that there would be no issues. Each test had some small issues that needed ironing out. However, here is another faith inspiring incident for the readers.
I began to write to beloved Huzooraa for prayers a couple of days prior to the event as we were facing a technical issue that wasn’t being resolved; however, before that letter was complete, I was told by our technical team – Shahryar Mirza and Bazil Khan – that alhamdolillah, that particular issue was now resolved. Before the letter was even sent to a man of God, his prayers for whatever was being written had already gained acceptance at the divine threshold.
I have experienced many times over that whenever I have written to Huzooraa, instantly a source of comfort and calm envelops my mind and at this point, it was no different.
The day of this major event arrived and the call time for MTA crew members was 8am. I could see during the morning debrief some sense of anxiety and nervousness in the team. In all honesty, I wasn’t fairing any better than them. Regardless, they were briefed before being sent on their roles. Another test was agreed with the London team at 11:30am and we assumed our positions for the final test before the live stream to beloved Huzooraa.
When we started this test, it was from beloved Huzoor’saa office and again, at this point, it hit us all that this is where our Beloved Imamaa would soon be engaging from his offices in Islamabad with Atfal in Peace Village, Toronto.
The wonders of Allah the Almighty were being taken into a new era, one where His chosen Khalifa was interactively engaging live across a different continent with his people. Subhanallah!
We checked the audio and video quality from both ends in this test and alhamdolillah, by now, it was all satisfactory and we were ready for the class. The class started promptly at 1:30pm Eastern Time and alhamdolillah, it went smoothly without any hiccups.
The most comforting words for all of us in the studio were when beloved Huzooraa said:
“Through this meeting, I feel as though I am in Canada. I can see the mosque and the exact spot where I was interviewed by a Canadian journalist. I can see the hall where many of you are sitting. It is as if I am with you!”
May Allah the Almighty soon bring the day when we can all be free to meet our Imam in person and we in Canada are again blessed with the physical presence of this beautiful person of Allah the Almighty, our dearest Imam, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
The following day, 16 August, would also become part of history, where the national amila of Lajna Imaillah Canada became the first amila to be granted an official online virtual meeting with Huzooraa. The national amila were blessed to have this unique opportunity to get direct one on one guidance from their Imamaa on their respective administrative offices.
This meeting took place from the Jamia Ahmadiyya auditorium, which is located on the third floor of Aiwan-e-Tahir. A similar MTA setup was used, but this time, with MTA Lajna crew members.
At this point, as these were historic events, I would like to mention the names of the people involved from MTA to successfully stream and broadcast the class and amila meeting. All praise belongs to Allah.
MTA International UK: Munir Odeh (Director of Productions), Syed Jahangir Shah and Imran Ahmad (technical engineers)
MTA International Canada Studios: Ataul Awwal Abbasi (Markaz representative of MTA International), Shaharyar Mirza (production manager & technical engineer), Ansar (director), Bazil Khan (racking & technical engineer), Raveel (vision mixer), Abdul Hamidi (audio operator), Athar Chattah (IT), Aizaz Khan (missionary and VT/GFX operator), Athar Ahmad (VT/GFX), Tahir Nasim (production assistant), Shoaib & Maajid (PA from sami basri team)
Aiwan-e-Tahir Crew: Saqib Kahlon (floor manager), Basil Raza Butt (missionary and main mic operator), Shahzaib Mirza, Faateh Malik, Nauman Mian (camera operators), Nadeem Ahmad & Uvaice Nasir (boom mic operators)
Baitul Islam Crew: Behzad Ahmad (floor manager), Basil Tishna, Jalees Ahmad, Faraz Ahmad (camera operators), Irfan Ahmad (boom mic operator)
Lajna Mulaqat Crew: Munaza Khan (production manager), Fareeha Zafar (floor manager), Sofia Saeed, Imama Majid, Attiya Ghumman (camera operators) and Razia Ahmad (floor audio operator).
May Allah the Almighty give our most dearest and beloved Imam, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih Vaa strength to continue giving us guidance; may He give us all the opportunity to continue serving our beloved Imamaa to the best of our abilities; may He accept our efforts in propagating the true teachings of Islam Ahmadiyyat. Amin
Summary of the report on progress of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya in the past year delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih Vaa on Friday, 7 August and Sunday, 9 August 2020
Whilst delivering his Friday Sermon on 7 August 2020, Hazrat Amirul Momineen, Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand, said that while it was the weekend of Jalsa Salana UK 2020, Jalsa is not taking place this year due to the current pandemic. Although this was the case, MTA International has attempted to fill this void with various programmes throughout the three days.
Nonetheless, Huzooraa said that one of the features of Jalsa Salana UK every year is that the Jamaat is informed about Allah’s blessings upon the Ahmadiyya Community in the past year and therefore, Huzooraa would narrate progress of the Jamaat since the last Jalsa Salana until now.
Huzooraa said that usually he was not able to cover the entire report even during Jalsa Salana and so, while he would present part of the report on Friday, he would commence with the report of Allah’s blessings in the past year on Sunday evening, when Huzooraa would be addressing the Jamaat live via MTA from Islamabad.
Report presented on Friday
Thus, in his Friday Sermon, Huzooraa announced that – apart from Pakistan – 288 new Jamaats had been established around the world and the seeds of Ahmadiyyat had been sown in 1,040 new places. In terms of establishing new Jamaats in various areas, Sierra Leone was at the top of the list where 40 new Jamaats had been established; this was followed by Congo-Kinshasa where 31 Jamaats were established, followed by Ghana where 23 new Jamaat were formed.
Huzooraa listed a plethora of other countries around the world where new Jamaats had been established.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa said that a local muallim, Hamid Ahmad Sahib from Congo Kinshasa explained that when a local Sunni Imam of a village, Usman Sahib, listened to a programme by the Jamaat on the radio, he came to the mosque and bombarded the Jamaat with questions. He was given convincing answers, the Swahili translation of the Quran by the Jamaat and other Jamaat books to study. After reading these books, by the grace of Allah, he performed Bai‘at and promised he would give this message to his village. Huzooraa said that by the grace of Allah, through this imam’s tabligh, a Jamaat consisting of 20 members from this village had been formed.
Amir Jamaat Gambia wrote that during the month of Ramadan, a local muallim and the sadr of a region planned a tabligh event. When they went to a village for this programme, an elder of that village said that he was very happy with their arrival and the tabligh programme. The elder explained that he was happy because this was the Sunnah of the Holy Prophetsa. He said that the Holy Prophetsa also migrated from Mecca to Medina so that Islam could spread and in the same way, the Jamaat is travelling from place to place in an effort to preach the message of Islam. The gentleman accepted the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat and the Promised Messiahas. By the grace of Allah, two families – consisting of 19 people – accepted Ahmadiyyat in this area.
Amir Jamaat Liberia said that a missionary delivered a Friday Sermon in which he spoke of the importance of Tahrik-e-Jadid. After the Friday Sermon, while Ahmadis were writing their names for chanda promises, a gentleman came forward and gave 50 Liberian dollars; he was a non-Ahmadi Muslim. Later the Jamaat went to see him and thanked him for his donation. While there, the locals, including the imam of the area, listened to the message of the Jamaat and were greatly affected by it. The imam said that he desired to gather a few other villages for the Jamaat to give their message to them. After giving the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat and its purpose for a whole day to the three villages, all three imams, along with their villages, accepted Islam Ahmadiyyat.
A missionary of the Jamaat from the Philippines explained that a specific region was infamous for extremist clerics; the Tablighi Jamaat also has a strong footing in the area. A muallim’s family members live in this area. The muallim gave the message of the Jamaat to his family members, which they took positively. As a result, a team of muallims and dai‘een (preachers) were sent to this area for a week to preach the message of Islam Ahmadiyyat. As always, they saw opposition from the Muslims, but despite this, 23 people converted to Ahmadiyyat.
Amir Jamaat Senegal wrote that through local muallims and missionaries, an hour-radio programme and an hour of Huzoor’saa sermon is broadcast in 10 places in a region of Senegal. People call in and ask questions during these programmes. As a result of these radio programmes, this year, the seed of Ahmadiyyat has been sown in 20 villages of the region.
The missionary of Kababir explained that by the grace of Allah, for some years, Ahmadis have lived in southern Palestine but were not organised as a Jamaat and now have been established as a Jamaat.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa narrated various faith-inspiring incidents about the construction of mosques around the world. Huzooraa also announced that 217 mosques had been established across four continents. Of these, 124 were newly built, while 93 existing mosques were acquired. Some of the countries Huzooraa mentioned, in which these mosques were established, included the UK, France, Germany, Nigeria, Indonesia, India, Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Zambia, etc.
In Norway, the owners of a church that opposed the Jamaat’s construction of a mosque ended up selling their church building to the Jamaat. By the grace of Allah, this church has now been converted into a mosque.
In Tanzania, a mosque that was being built by the Jamaat was attacked and building materials were taken. After the police allowed the reconstruction of the mosque after a brief interval, non-Ahmadi Muslims of the village in which the mosque was being built said how the mosque was a source of blessings for them and they prevented any further attacks. This incident was a means of tabligh for the Jamaat. At the opening of the mosque, hundreds of people attended, including police inspectors and Muslim imams. The non-Ahmadi Muslims noted at the opening that they had been misinformed about Ahmadis and were told Ahmadis are not Muslims. They noted how good Ahmadi Muslims are.
In Burkina Faso, a missionary wrote that in one Jamaat, where a mosque was being built, every member of the Jamaat was contributing towards the construction of the mosque in whatever way they could. He said that one day two elder Ahmadis came carrying two chickens and some eggs. They said that that was all they had and requested for it to be accepted as chanda towards the mosque from them so that they too could partake in its blessing.
Huzooraa said that today, poor people in Africa are re-establishing the example of the poor Ahmadis in Qadian who gave immense sacrifices over 100 years ago – this is a proof of the truthfulness of the Jamaat in itself.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa announced that a new, beautifully bound Quran with unique Arabic font – Khat-e-Manzur – was in print. Huzooraa highlighted its quality of print, design and beauty.
Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa gave further facts and figures about the progress of the Jamaat during the year. These included:
22.7 million people received the message of Islam throughout the world and more than 9,357,000 leaflets were distributed
Under Wakalat-e-Ishaat Taba‘at, there were 4,256,659 publications this year in 93 countries. These include 407 different books and pamphlets in 42 languages
Under Wakalat-e-Ishaat Tarseel, more than 190,000 books in 24 languages were sent to different countries
360,240 books printed by the Raqeem Press in the UK
The Jamaat presses established in eight African countries collectively printed over 612,000 books
97 new mission houses established around the world
The first Ahmadi mosque in Mexico has been established – Baitul Afiyat
The first Ahmadi mosque in Malawi has been built
41,111 sessions of volunteering (waqar-e-amal) were held in 114 countries, saving $5,213,000
407 unique books and pamphlets were produced in 42 different languages
7,540 Quran exhibitions and displays that were held reached 343,000 people
Sunday’s event
On Sunday, 9 August 2020, Hazrat Amirul Momineenaa arrived in the Masroor Hall in Islamabad at 15:01 BST to deliver his address to the worldwide audience via MTA International.
Nasar Ahmad Arshad Sahib was called to the stage to recite a portion of the Holy Quran (Surah al-Saff, Ch.61: V.8-12), after which Asif Bin Owais Sahib read out its Urdu translation. Rana Mahmood-ul-Hasan Sahib was then called to recite a nazm; the poem recited was written by the Promised Messiahas, “Hamd-o-sanaa usi ko…”
After reciting Tashahud, Ta‘awuz and Surah al-Fatihah, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, may Allah strengthen his hand, took to the podium and said that today’s address would continue the theme of his Friday Sermon, delivered two days ago.
Huzooraa said that the report that was actually prepared had to be condensed for it to be accommodated in the address.
Wakalat-e-Tamil-o-Tanfidh for India, Nepal and Bhutan has worked on the Hindi translation of all books of the Promised Messiahas. By the grace of Allah, according to the report from Qadian, 16 books have been translated and published afresh, while 21 further books are pending review. There are tabligh efforts being made there.
Under the Arabic Desk, 145 books and leaflets have been published. The 20th volume of Ruhani Khazain has been sent for print this year, as well as the first volume of Tafsir-e-Kabir and various other translations of the Promised Messiah’sas books and other literature produced by the Khulafa. All Arabic books are being regularly uploaded to the Jamaat’s central Arabic website. Programmes of MTA are also available on this website, as well as the Friday Sermon which is being uploaded since 2008.
The French Desk provides French translations for various literature as well as translating letters. Various tabligh activities are also rendered by this department. In November 2009, the French website was also started and many people continue to visit the site.
The Turkish Desk has produced 18 or 19 translations of books and these will very soon be published. On MTA, 43 Turkish programmes were recorded afresh. Various other tabligh and tarbiyat activities are also being rendered by them.
The Russian Desk is also producing translations in a great way. Aside from the Pakistani missionaries, Huzooraa named two Russian gentlemen who are contributing to the translations. Huzoor’s Friday Sermons are also being translated regularly. Letters sent to Huzooraa in various languages belonging to the area are also translated by the Russian Desk. The Jamaat’s Russian website was launched in 2013 and all Friday Sermons and various addresses are regularly uploaded. More than 10,000 people visited the website in the past year.
The Uzbek website also has various addresses of Huzooraa, Friday Sermons and other MTA programmes.
The Kyrgyz website is also functioning in a similar manner, along with the recitation of the Holy Quran.
Under the Bangla Desk, through MTA programmes, 69 new converts were made possible. Translation of the Holy Quran and other such services are being rendered by them.
Under the Chinese Desk, various books of the Promised Messiahas and other literature are being translated and produced.
The Indonesian Desk is also providing Indonesian translations of Huzoor’saa Friday Sermons. 220 programmes were also translated by them in the past year, as well as various books of the Promised Messiahas.
The Swahili Desk has been established now in the UK and all programmes broadcast on MTA Africa are being translated in Swahili. 15 parts of the Holy Quran were also translated as well as other literature.
The Spanish Desk is functioning in Spain and working on various translations and are working very well. The website run by this department attracts 22,000 people every month, whereas in Ramadan, 42,000 people visited.
The Waqf-e-Nau department has now become quite organised and in total, 72,932 Waqifeen-e-Nau are included in the scheme, with 3,994 being included in the past year. The Waqifeen who have renewed their pledges are more than 15,000.
The Alislam website has many books and literature with many new additions. The team is working very well.
The Review of Religions has reached 118 years and is publishing in French, German, Spanish and English. This year, they have played an important role in reaching the English-speaking countries. They have a big presence on social media and more than 5 million people have visited their posts and videos. During the lockdown, people were more inclined to reading The Review of Religions. Over 70,000 people have subscribed to their YouTube channel.
Al Fazl International was launched in 1994 as a weekly newspaper and is now publishing twice a week. It has a very beautiful and elegant design.
Al Hakam is also being published on a weekly basis. The readership increased greatly during the lockdown.
The Press and Media Office has also worked on many projects and reached many people online.
Makhzan-e-Tasaweer has its offices in Tahir House. The visits there, to Huzoor’s knowledge, are not as they should be. 913 people from 25 countries have visited the exhibition.
The Ahmadiyya Archive and Research Centre is preserving various tabarrukat and remaining in contact with researchers studying the Jamaat and doing a good job.
Under MTA Africa, there are many new developments. Under the Wahab Adam Studios, various programmes have been recorded. Other countries have reported positive outcomes of MTA Africa. Huzooraa then pointed the Jamaat’s attention to watching MTA and making it a part of our lives.
Thereafter, Huzooraa narrated faith-inspiring incidents of people turning to the Jamaat through technology.
Then Huzooraa mentioned Ahmadiyya radio stations. With the addition of two new radio stations during the previous year, there are total 27 radio stations of the Jamaat around the world. There are 17 radio stations in Mali and some in Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, The Gambia and here in the UK also, Voice of Islam is working and working very well.
Aside from MTA International, 44 countries were able to present programmes on television and radio shows, with 11,063 TV programmes spanning 6,842 hours and more than 18,400 hours in 22,167 radio shows.
IAAAE has been working on various projects, for example Water for Life and other such projects. They are getting help from various architects and engineers throughout the world. Humanity First has been serving humanity for the last 26 years and is established in 54 countries.
Huzooraa then narrated some progress of medical camps being installed throughout the world as well as basic facilities. They were also able to conduct over 500 eye operations in eye clinics.
MTA International has 16 departments and has 496 people working day and night, of whom 275 men and 142 women are volunteers, whereas 79 people are paid staff members. On 27 May 2020, MTA entered a new era with eight channels running 24 hours a day. Since 2014, MTA is broadcasting programmes with subtitles and new additions have been made to the languages of subtitles.
Huzooraa then narrated incidents of people accepting Ahmadiyyat through MTA. Huzooraa said that it becomes clear from these incidents that people have been becoming aware of the Jamaat, but due to a lack of presence on our part, they were not able to perform Bai‘at.
However, Huzooraa prayed for all those who entered the Jamaat in this period that they are able to stay resolute in their faith, which is the most important thing.
The amir of France wrote that a Christian would regularly visit his local church and pose questions about his faith to his priest, which the priest disliked. He came across a book of the Promised Messiahas, Jesus in India; the more he studied it, the more his questions were answered and now he has turned towards the Jamaat.
Marwan Gill, missionary of Argentina, wrote that a lady was once passing by our mission house when she noticed a poster through the window with the Promised Messiah’sas portrait and which said that the awaited Messiah has come. This had a great impact on her. She then contacted the Jamaat and studied its literature. After one year, she became convinced of the Jamaat’s truthfulness and despite being separated from her husband and facing opposition from her family as a result of this decision, she remains resolute in her faith.
Naseer Shahid Sahib of France wrote that a lady from France saw a dream that she was in a large mosque and many groups had in their possession the Holy Quran. Among the groups, she noticed a smaller group where she recognised a lady and so, she joined it. She was questioned on this move, when she saw a bright light. From this dream, she interpreted that Ahmadiyyat was the group on the right path and has entered the fold of Ahmadiyyat along with her five children.
Amir Jamaat Niger wrote that an Ahmadi narrated his dream in which he saw that he was lying down in his house and saw the moon, on which was inscribed the Kalima. After seeing this dream, the gentleman interpreted the truth of the Jamaat as the colour and style of the text written on the moon was noticed at a Jamaat event.
A muallim of Burkina Faso narrated that someone expressed his desire to enter the Jamaat. However, he faced some opposition from his village. He once saw in a dream that there were two groups in a field who were to hold a debate. However, as his group had no arguments to present, the victory was handed to the Ahmadiyya group. This enabled him to realise the truthfulness of the Jamaat.
A muallim of Tanzania wrote that a member of the Wahhabi group would regularly use foul language against the Jamaat, to such a degree that people from within his group refused to go to his mosque ever again. This cleric eventually faced humiliation by committing an indecent act and was forced to leave the area.
A missionary from Bulgaria wrote that a sincere friend has maintained regular contact with the Jamaat. He has placed various literature of the Jamaat in his clinics. Accordingly, many people have become aware of the message of the Jamaat. Huzooraa said that although not a member of the Jamaat, there are such people in the world who are becoming a means of the tabligh of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya.
Towards the end, Huzooraa read out an extract from the writings of the Promised Messiahas on the subject of divine help and succour with God’s chosen people.
Huzooraa then concluded by praying that the world may quickly turn to the truth and that we may fulfil our obligations for making this a reality.
Huzooraa concluded the event with dua, after which he extended “Assalamo Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” to all attendees and viewers of MTA.
It has been mentioned previously that there is a stark difference in the wavelength of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih and the ordinary human. Our mindset remains occupied in trivial earthly pursuits whereas the Khalifa’s goals soar high above the skies. We are constrained by our capabilities in understanding things, but the Khalifa sees things beyond the three dimensions we are accustomed to.
This has been experienced many times during mulaqats. When I have had four or five points to seek guidance on, I would think, bearing in mind their nature, that they would take up a lot of time. But Huzooraa would spend only a few seconds on each item, resulting in the four issues being solved within a matter of minutes.
On the other hand, however, when I have thought to myself that due to the very few items on my list, the mulaqat would be no longer than a few minutes, Huzooraa would spend 10 to 15 minutes on each item, as well as enquiring about other matters and giving guidance on them.
At times, when I have presented short promos to be played on MTA for approval, Huzooraa would tell me to place the DVD on his desk and that if he had time, he would watch it. However, at other instances, when I have presented a 45-minute documentary, Huzooraa has told me to play it and on such occasions, I have placed the DVD into the player that is located opposite Huzoor’s desk and stood to one side as Huzooraa continued his work with the DVD playing.
In front of Huzooraa, on the desk, would be a pile of letters from people around the world as well as official letters requiring guidance and approval. If a 45-minute programme was being played, then in my observation, the total duration of Huzooraa looking up and watching the programme would be no longer than 45 seconds. The rest of time, Huzooraa would be reading the hundreds of letters placed before him.
The astonishing thing is that as this goes on, Huzooraa pauses the programme and gives instructions for certain edits to be made. Initially, at such occasions, I would not watch as attentively as I should, due to having been through the pre-production, production, post-production and reviewing phases. Instead of paying attention, I would satisfy my yearning of observing Huzoor’s blessed countenance. But I then learnt that if I did not pay attention, I would face embarrassment when asked about something.
In any case, wherever Huzooraa glanced up at the television screen, most of the times, there was something that required editing.
A documentary was once prepared in which scenes were shown from a non-Ahmadi Muslim protest. Huzooraa glanced up at the television screen, paused the DVD and enquired regarding an individual in the background:
“He looks just like [so and so]?”
When I looked up, I found that he had a perfect resemblance with the person Huzooraa was referring to. I had been through the footage numerous times during the editing-phase and the colleagues working on the documentary were familiar with the person also. But no one had managed to point that out. When I returned to the office from the mulaqat, I relayed the incident to my colleagues. They all went back and viewed that part of the documentary once again. When they had seen it, they all agreed that the resemblance was uncanny.
Although some may consider it a passing statement, but a lesson can be learnt from Huzoor’s attention to detail. And although the maulvi was not the Ahmadi who he had resembled, considering the responsibilities of my department, I learnt a huge lesson. Here we have our own way of thinking, but Huzoor’s farsightedness is such that it has its eyes set higher than where we can see.
Due to our lack of wisdom and insight, we consider ourselves to be correct, and if the outcome in any of our pursuits is not to our liking, then instead of reflecting over the possible flaws in our pursuit and accepting that our understanding is limited, we look for faults in the outcome. We should be most careful regarding matters submitted to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. We should acknowledge that our thoughts and expectations are null and void in front of the wisdom of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih. Otherwise, we should reflect upon the wording of the Bai‘at and the respective auxiliary pledges that we make and be concerned for the state of our faith.
More than a century bears witness to the fact that to side with the Khalifa of the time is the solution to our critical problems. Who can say that they would rather take the challenges of life head-on without proper direction and insight? Nobody, including me, can claim to have understood Huzoor’saa farsightedness because we inevitably see the world in our own little bubble.
I now present some incidents where it becomes manifest that Huzooraa envisions the future in a completely different manner to us all. Before I commence with the actual topic, I would like to shed further light on the incident mentioned above. I have already said that despite having piles of letters in front of him, Huzooraa is able to pick out the smallest of details in a programme.
However, I should also mention that Huzooraa does not skim through letters, nor does he merely sign them with his signature. The atmosphere of the office is such that Huzooraa listens to what the person has to say; if there is a programme that requires guidance, then that would play in the background and amidst all that, Huzooraa carefully reads the letters.
It has been observed that Huzooraa not only reads the summaries that have been attached with the actual letter, but also reads the handwriting of the person who has sent the letter and, where necessary, Huzooraa gives further guidance in writing. The personal letters for which summaries are prepared are all composed in light of Huzoor’s words, which he personally writes on the letters. But when such letters have been prepared and are ready for Huzoor’s signatures, they are always presented with the original letter.
Thus, in those blessed moments, one gets the opportunity to see Huzooraa read through not hundreds, but thousands of letters. Many a time, I have witnessed Huzooraa refer to the original letter after reading the letter that required his signature. I have seen it dozens of times when Huzooraa corrects a mistake in the letter and thus, a new version of that letter gets presented to Huzooraa for his signature. The reason for Huzoor’s precision and care in his letters is that whatever is written on that letter on Huzoor’s behalf, whether it is personal or official, is to become a part of history.
Whilst reading every word with care, Huzooraa also carries on with other tasks. This is a capability that can only be deemed God-given, and who better a recipient in this day than Hazrat Khalifatul Masihaa. Praise be to Allah a thousand times over that He has enabled us to see His chosen one with our own eyes in the present day.
Now, let us turn our attention to how we may be thinking one thing, but Huzoor’s divinely inspired vision is set elsewhere.
Al-Hiwar-ul-Mubashar was the first programme on MTA in which viewers were able to send in their questions and receive their answers live. Ahmadis and non-Ahmadis alike had the opportunity to ask their questions. This was a breakthrough in MTA’s history. It was a seed planted by Huzooraa and as a result, Allah caused it to be widely accepted throughout the Arabic speaking world.
When the live broadcast of that programme began, the Urdu-speaking audience also expressed their desire for having such a programme. The feedback received from MTA viewers is always important, but when deliberations were made with regard to such a programme, it was felt that the nature of the Urdu and Punjabi speaking audience (especially when bringing non-Ahmadis and their views on Ahmadiyyat into account) would not be appropriate for MTA, if things escalated.
Thus, such a programme was always considered a “no-go area”. Huzooraa was also aware of the desire of the viewers to have such a programme on MTA. In those days, regular news updates were given on MTA. In addition to this, Huzooraa instructed that a monthly report be given to the MTA viewers on the persecution of Ahmadi Muslims in the form of news bulletins.
In accordance with Huzoor’s instructions, Persecution News began. Abid Waheed Khan Sahib, Mashood Iqbal Sahib and, on occasions, Daud Khan Sahib accompanied me as part of the studio panel. The programme was widely accepted by MTA viewers. During those days, a so-called scholar and television presenter in Pakistan invited Islamic jurists to his show and together, they declared Ahmadis “wajib-ul-qatl” (liable to death). If there is any sense left in the senseless state of Pakistan, then it is the sense of enmity and spite for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat.
As soon as the fatwa (edict) was relayed among the masses, within only a few days, some of our very dear Ahmadi brothers were martyred in Sindh. Among them was the late Abdul Manan Siddiqi Sahib – God rest his soul – who was a doctor by profession and would spend days and nights in treating underprivileged patients. He was martyred as a result of the fatwa aired on national television.
In Persecution News, the misinformation and false accusations were highlighted and refuted. The martyrdoms that occurred because of the programme were also mentioned. The episodes of Persecution News after that event had taken the path of explaining the beliefs of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. Under the instructions of Huzooraa, an email account was created for viewers to send in their questions for the studio panel to answer. In the upcoming episodes, we would answer their questions. With Huzoor’s permission, the duration of the programme was increased and instead of showing it monthly, it was shown on a fortnightly basis.
However, the two-week wait also proved too long for viewers. One day, Huzooraa instructed that the “news” label should be removed and it should be broadcast as a separate programme called Persecution. Due to the change in the programme’s nature, Huzooraa also instructed that alongside lawyers, religious scholars should also be included in the programme.
During those first few shows, we would have Ata-ul-Mujeeb Rashed Sahib and Laiq Ahmad Tahir Sahib alongside Daud Khan Sahib or Mashood Iqbal Sahib. A few days after a show had been recorded, it would be broadcast on MTA. With Huzoor’s permission, the programme now had its own telephone number for viewers to record their questions and have them asked on our programme. The filtering of those questions and remarks left by viewers is a separate story in its own right.
As I mentioned, it was a pre-recorded programme and on the day of broadcast, the number for the telephone line would be displayed on the screen. The following day, I would sit and listen to all the questions and remarks that people had recorded. Although most of the questions were sensible in nature, I would have to listen to a handful of malicious messages, consisting mainly of foul and offensive language, which was always a startling start to the morning.
In any case, the questions were noted down and answered in the following programme. As time went on, the shape and format of the programme completely transformed. The number of questions that we started to receive was more than we could answer in a single programme.
Apart from questions, we were also expected to give updates on the persecution of Ahmadis. Every programme was sent to Huzooraa for guidance and approval. Alhamdolillah, Huzooraa guided us at every step of the way. Huzooraa would sometimes say that such and such answer was not sufficient and should have been answered in such and such manner. Those instructions would be passed on to the panel members. Huzooraa would also give me instructions on how to better the programme in the capacity of the presenter.
For a long time, I began thinking that Huzooraa watched all the programmes in their entirety, from beginning to end. “But at what time?” I could not answer this question. Then, one day, Huzooraa took me by surprise by telling me that at times, he would watch the programme from here and there.
I firmly believe that those moments were precisely selected by God Almighty for His divinely appointed servant to watch because Huzoor’s attention was always drawn towards those parts that required regulation.
Once, Huzooraa asked, “How many takes do you record one programme in?” I replied, “Normally, we don’t need to stop. If anyone needs to cough or if there is a technical error, we stop, otherwise it is recorded in one take.” Huzooraa instructed, “The next programme should be recorded in a single take.”
This instruction of Huzooraa was relayed to the team and appropriate arrangements were made so that it could be recorded in one take. In the next mulaqat, I informed Huzooraa that we had managed to record the programme in one take, to which Huzooraa replied, “The next programme should be recorded in the same manner.” We did so accordingly.
The third time, Huzooraa instructed that we did the same and we obeyed again. After the third programme, I informed Huzooraa, “Huzoor, we managed to record last night’s programme in one take also.” Huzoor replied, “Then why don’t you broadcast the programme live?”
We had all considered it a “no-go area” and therefore we had never brought it into consideration, so much so that when Huzooraa instructed us to record the programme in one take thrice, even then it did not cross our minds that Huzooraa was preparing us to broadcast the show live. I immediately responded, “Insha-Allah the next programme will be broadcast live.” Huzooraa replied, “No. The national Ijtema will be held next Saturday. People will be occupied in that. You will need a strong team for a live programme. When the ijtemas have ended, form a team and commence with the live programme.”
How Huzooraa is able to maintain a clear picture of the calendar of events is beyond me. Only God knows how Huzooraa retains all such information. But just ponder how Huzooraa first prepared us for a live programme, then gave an instruction to broadcast the programme live, then thought that a strong team would be required and Huzooraa cared for the fact that no hurdle should come in the way of formulating a team.
The biggest lesson that can be learnt here is that we should work with complete consciousness and give precedence to mindfulness over passion. The programme had taken a different shape to what it started off as and, under Huzoor’s instruction, it began airing with the name Rah-e-Huda.
One difficulty in the live programme we could foresee was that we had already experienced how people recorded their obscene messages for us on our voicemail, so how could we be sure that they wouldn’t do it live? If they ever called on the live programme and repeated what they had said on the voicemail, it would indeed be a great cause for concern for the Jamaat.
I presented this hesitation to Huzooraa, but he very calmly replied, “Nothing of the sort will happen. Start the programme.” And thus, Huzooraa sowed the seed for the live programme. But Huzooraa was well-aware of the season in which he was to sow this seed; he knew exactly when this “plant” would gain fruition; he knew how to grow it and when to leave it in the open air.
But even when Huzooraa left it in the open air, it was always under his supervision. Before and after each show, Huzooraa would equip us with guidelines and instructions. If ever Huzooraa felt that an answer was not up to the mark, Huzooraa would instruct that the answer be given again in accordance with what Huzooraa explained and thus, the answer would be given afresh on the following show.
Once, someone called in and asked, “In Islam, only two forms of journeys have been made compulsory – Hajj and Jihad. From where have you sought permission to make Jalsa Salana a compulsory journey?” Accordingly, our scholars answered the question.
The following day, I had a mulaqat. In that, I informed Huzooraa of the questions that had been asked during the programme, including the above. Huzooraa listened to this question rather attentively and enquired about the answer we gave. I gave a summary of the answer. Huzooraa then turned his chair towards the set of Ruhani Khazain – the compilation of books of the Promised Messiahas – which is located on Huzoor’s left [in the Fazl Mosque office]. He picked out a volume of Majmu‘a Ishtiharat, turned a few pages and said:
“The answer to this has been mentioned here. The same allegation was made during the time of the Promised Messiahas, in reply to which Huzooras published an entire announcement.”
Huzooraa read out the entire text to me, which consisted of two full pages. The speed with which Huzooraa read it out was remarkable. Despite the speed, everything was clearly read out. Huzooraa pronounced each word as it ought to be and nothing was ambiguously read; it was not how we read out passages in a hurry and eat our words. Having read it all out, Huzooraa said, “This is the reply to the allegation.”
I really wanted to ask how Huzooraa had reached that passage so quickly. The amazement with which I left the mulaqat that day is pretty much the same today. However, this was not an exclusive event; I have witnessed events like this several times.
Once, when I sought guidance regarding a qaseedah (Arabic poem) of the Promised Messiahas, Huzooraa immediately turned his chair towards his books and reached for the book Al-Qasaaid-ul-Ahmadiyya. Huzooraa immediately found the qaseedah in question and showed me the couplets for which I had sought guidance. It would be fair to say, judging from the state of Huzoor’s books, that they have been referred to extensively.
The Promised Messiah’sas books especially seem as if Huzooraa studies them every day. Huzoor’s personal copy of the Holy Quran is annotated with thousands of flags and points and the folds on many pages show that the one who possesses the most knowledge of the Holy Quran in this day is truly the biggest admirer of the Quran also. This fact is proven in every Friday Sermon, speech, Waqf-e-Nau class and sittings in Jamia Ahmadiyya.
The third article of faith in Islam is belief in the holy books of God Almighty. Before the appearance of the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas, strange views had arisen among the Muslims regarding this article of faith as well. The belief in the divine books, especially the Holy Quran, was rendered incomplete and imperfect due to the concepts and false interpretations introduced by the so-called religious scholars of that time.
In Islam, the Holy Quran is the perfect source of faith because it is the only holy book that has withstood the test of time. The belief in other scriptures is purely a matter of principle, as they neither exist in their true and actual condition, nor has Allah the Almighty commanded to follow their laws in this age.
We are overwhelmed with shock and surprise to view the beliefs of Muslims regarding the Holy Quran; this feeling arises because we have come to know the real truth by believing in the Promised Messiahas.
Otherwise, like very many Muslims, we would have committed the same blunders about the Holy Quran. Some people think that the Holy Quran was lifted from the world soon after the demise of the Holy Prophetsa and most of it had disappeared from the earth. According to some, the present form of the Holy Quran has been corrupted by human interventions.
Certain people strongly reject such notions and refer to them as kufr [disbelief], but on the other hand, they themselves entertain such dangerous beliefs in one way or another. For instance, they say that certain verses of the Holy Quran have been abrogated and the reason of their annulment, in their view, is that the verses which are found to be contrary to other verses are null and void. As a result of this belief, certain verses were considered contrary to others by some people and various other verses were found to be conflicting each other according to another group of people, and thus, a significant part of the Holy Quran was considered to have been abrogated.
Consequently, it not only resulted in disbelief of some parts of the Holy Quran, but another dangerous effect it created was doubt and uncertainty in the hearts and minds of people. As a result, the credibility of the book was in question because there was no way to know exactly which verses were to be considered invalid and Allah the Almighty or His messenger, Prophet Muhammadsa had also not shed light on this matter.
Another horrible misconception concerning the books of God, particularly about the Holy Quran, was that even this divine book is not free from the involvement of Satan and it is said that sometimes, Satan interferes in the revelation of God. This false assumption is centered on the following verse of the Holy Quran:
“Never sent We a Messenger or a Prophet before thee, but when he sought to attain what he aimed at, Satan put obstacles in the way of what he sought after” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.53).
It is reasoned from this verse that Satan intervenes in the revelation of every prophet and adds parts to it which are not from Allah the Almighty. The so-called commentators of the Holy Quran did consider it enough to declare this a general rule, but they also quoted an incident of the Holy Prophetsa to assert their view. They say that the Holy Prophetsa was reciting Surah al-Najm and when he reached the following verses:
“Now tell me about Lat and Uzza and Manat, the third one, another goddess!” (Surah al-Najm, Ch.53: V.20-21), Satan added the words:
تلك الغرانيق العُلى، وإنشفاعتهن لَتُرتَجَى
[These idols, which have the status of beautiful women with beautiful necks, are expected to carry out intercession] and (God forbid) made the Holy Prophetsa utter these words from his mouth. It is said that when the disbelievers heard these words, they also prostrated. Some people consider this story to be extremely outrageous and intolerable and say that Satan did not make the Holy Prophetsa utter these phrases but made a voice like him and uttered those words. The doubts that arise as a result of this false concept are baselessly dismissed by following the verse:
“But Allah removes the obstacles that are placed by Satan. Then Allah firmly establishes His Signs. And Allah is All Knowing, Wise” (Surah al-Hajj, Ch.22: V.53).
But how can one be satisfied with this answer because if satan can interfere in divine revelation, then what proof is there that this very verse is also not satanic? And Satan, in order to satisfy the Holy Prophetsa, said that whatever is spoken by Satan is erased, so that Satan’s word may also be considered as the word of Allah. Some people have devalued the Holy Quran to such an extent that its clear and explicit teachings have been undermined on the basis of ahadith and in the name of following the sunnah, they have made the word of Allah subject to the thoughts of some selfish and morally corrupt human beings.
From their perspective, even if the Holy Quran openly rejects a matter, if it is mentioned in the weakest of ahadith, it will take precedence over divine revelation.
Certain people consider the Holy Quran to be a collection of thoughts of the Holy Prophetsa and denied that it was the divine word of God. Apparently, they consider it to be the revelation of Allah, but at the same time, they say that the ideas which occurred in the heart of the Holy Prophetsa were produced by God, so they should also be called the words of Allah, otherwise its original wording is attributed to the Holy Prophetsa.
People with a specific mindset declared that the Holy Quran cannot be translated. This resulted in depriving the masses from comprehending the true meaning of God’s revelation and resulted in the spread of atheism. Some say that the Holy Quran is full of taqdim and takhir, i.e. most of the times, words of the Holy Quran do not give meanings when read in the order in which they are recorded and cannot be understood unless taqdim and takhir is taken into account.
Certain people think that the Holy Quran is an abstruse and ambiguous book. It provides hints about some important matters, but it does not present firmly grounded arguments to prove any issue. Some have treated the word of God in such a way that all the stories and tales of the world that are rejected by common sense and are repulsive to human nature have been collected and attributed to the Holy Quran. They may be contrary to the clear teachings of the Holy Quran, but they have been added in the commentaries as the stories of Israelites. Their so-called commentators do not hesitate to attribute these fictitious tales to the saints and holy men of God.
Certain people deny that there is coherence in the Holy Quran. According to them, there is no particular order or arrangement in the events and accounts described in the Holy Quran. One of the greatest erroneous concepts spread about the revelation of Allah the Almighty is that God no longer speaks to human beings as He used to do in the past. According to them, an attribute of God Almighty has been suspended. He sees, hears, but does not speak.
Hence, many tried their best to ruin the beauty of Holy Quran and hide its true colours from people’s eyes. Unfortunately, all these efforts were carried to serve the Holy Quran, although the result of these efforts was that the world began to hate the teachings of the Holy Quran and its fascinating impact was removed from the hearts.
Allah the Almighty sent the Promised Messiahas in this age to remove all these misunderstandings and prove with arguments that the Holy Quran is the last guiding book of God Almighty. It is free from any kind of naskh [abrogation]. Everything in the Holy Quran is worthy of being followed by the Muslims and there is no part of it that is contrary to the other. He who disagrees with this is himself ignorant and attributes his lack of knowledge to the Holy Quran. There has been no change in the Holy Quran and every single word of it is the same as revealed to the Holy Prophetsa. Not only that, but no change can be made in it, neither by changing its subjects, nor by adding any new text within it, nor by reducing any part of it.
The Promised Messiahas states:
“We have complete confidence in the fact that the Holy Quran is the last divine book and that not an iota or dot can be added or detracted from its laws, limits, commandments and orders. Now there is no revelation or inspiration from Allah that can modify, change or abrogate any command of the Holy Quran.” (Izala-e-Auham, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 3, p. 170)
The Promised Messiahas emphasised that Allah the Almighty Himself is the Protector of the Holy Quran and He has created certain spiritual and physical means to protect it. Thus, human interventions cannot affect it at all. To say that any part of it has been taken from the world is to blame Allah the Almighty. Believing that the Holy Quran was changed by any human or Satan renders it doubtful and forever distrustful.
Moreover, if that was the case, it would be necessary for a prophet and a new divine law to be sent to guide the world, so that humanity would not be deprived of the true commandments of God Almighty.
The Promised Messiahas also proved that the Holy Quran and in fact, every revelation of God is free from satanic interference. He presented his personal experiences about divine blessings of Allah the Almighty and explained that if Satan cannot interfere in the revelations of a servant of the Holy Prophetsa, then it is impossible for him to intervene or change the revelations delivered to the chief of all the prophets, Muhammadsa.
The Promised Messiahas told the Muslims that the Holy Quran has been preserved by Allah the Almighty in its original form and ahadith of the Holy Prophetsa cannot be given precedence over it. The Holy Quran should not be called into question due to certain ahadith. In fact, the ahadith should be interpreted in light of the teachings and doctrines of the Holy Quran. If there arises a contradiction between the two, then those ahadith that may have been corrupted by a human being, intentionally or unintentionally, should be left out.
The Promised Messiahas, in response to those who say that the complete religion of Islam is known to us from ahadith, said that apart from the Holy Quran and ahadith, another thing is sunnah, i.e. the actions and practices of the Holy Prophetsa.
Scores of Muslims saw tens of millions of Muslims performing that sunnah and the next generation learned from them. This sunnah also does not contradict the Holy Quran and it should be given precedence over ahadith to find the truth. Ahadith are oral traditions and there is plenty of room for doubt about their authenticity.
The Promised Messiahas rejected the idea that the Holy Quran is a compilation of the words of the Holy Prophetsa. He explained that if God Almighty can create the whole universe without the need of physical hands, then He can surely speak to his prophets and chosen ones through spiritual means and send revelations upon them.
The Promised Messiahas also rejected this notion that the word of God should not be translated and said that unless the meaning of the Holy Quran was conveyed to people, how would they be aware of its beauties and qualities. The Promised Messiahas laid special emphasis that the Holy Quran is a complete and perfect book with unlimited knowledge and pearls of wisdom. It possesses clear and strong arguments. He said that a comprehensive book like the Holy Quran could not be found anywhere in the world.
The Promised Messiahas encouraged the Muslims to unlock the treasures of the Holy Quran by purifying themselves and referred to the following verse of the Holy Quran:
لَّا یَمَسُّہٗۤ اِلَّا الۡمُطَہَّرُوۡنَ
“None shall touch [it] except those who are purified.” (Surah al-Waqiah, Ch.56: V.80)
The Promised Messiahas presented explanations to all theological issues through the Holy Quran and refuted every objection of the opponents of Islam and proved that there is no more clear and detailed book on spiritual sciences, theology and ethics than the Holy Quran.
The Promised Messiahas also shunned the view that the Holy Quran is full of taqdim and takhir. He said that the words of the Holy Quran are so beautifully placed that they can never be removed from their assigned places. He explained this subject by interpreting different parts of the Holy Quran and proved that there is perfect order in its words, verses and surahs.
He dispelled every suspicion of those who were in doubt due to their own lack of knowledge.
The Promised Messiahas also argued that the Holy Quran is not a collection of the stories of Israelites.
He said that the mere resemblance of events does not prove that the two things are in fact one and the same. If the Holy Quran describes certain events of the past in different words, it means that it does not accept the word for word description of these happenings narrated in the old scriptures.
He also said that the Holy Quran is not a book of fiction. Many of the events it narrates are the predictions of the future or have deeper meanings.
The Promised Messiahas also refuted the idea that God does not speak and presented his own experience and observation. He said that no attribute of Allah the Almighty has been suspended. He argued that while Allah still sees and hears as before, what is the reason that he has stopped speaking now?
The Shariah [divine law] is another thing and simple revelation is another. Revelation is a means of expressing God’s love for his servant. Its closure would mean that the divine ways of showing nearness and delight have been closed.
Thus, as long as humans exist in the world and as long as righteous men sincerely strive for Allah the Almighty’s love and follow the teachings of Islam, the revelation of God will continue to shower.
Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IIra says:
“The Promised Messiahas came and told us that the Quran must be followed to the letter – from beginning to end, from the ‘b’ of bismillah to the ‘s’ of ‘al-nas’. The Holy Quran is a standing instruction for us all and it must be followed till the Day of Judgement.” (Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 2, p. 97)
Hence, the Promised Messiahas cleared all the misconceptions about the third article of faith in Islam, the Holy Quran. He restored the true greatness of the Holy Quran and brought forth its light by removing the veil which Muslims had cast upon it due to their own ignorance.
Consequently, even the non-Muslim nations were amazed to see the beauties and grace of the Holy Quran.
The Review of Religions (English), August & September 1920
I had come to see the Allahabad Exhibition and was well tired aft er the ramblings of a busy day, when I was suddenly pounced upon by some old acquaintances. They all seemed to be in high spirits, and aft er the usual words of greetings, they suddenly assailed me with a simultaneous volley of requests for a lecture. It was in vain that I pleaded to a raggedness of feeling, to the unsuitableness of the place and the time.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra
When they had found me, they said, they were not going to part without hearing something from their beloved Mufti. A bad job, I thought, but still one which ought to be made the most of.
I stood against a lamp-post, and told them that I had come, one among the many visitors to the exhibition. My old craze for books led me to where a number of stalls exhibited a most alluring prospect of a short hour’s “converse with the mighty minds of old.” A robust Brahmin with the orthodox caste-mark prominently visible on the forehead and crest, was in charge of a stock of books which looked venerable in their antiquity. The hope of a rare discovery soon led me to approach the pile. “What have you here? My friend!” I asked the gentleman in-charge. “Our ancient Shastra,” was the reply. Nothing could be better, I thought, being specially a lover of religious literature.
I pointed to a volume more hoary than the others and inquired what it contained. “It is the venerable Vedas, the Book of the Hindus, left by the Rishis for the guidance of men.” “And who, pray, were the Rishis!” I asked. “Why, the elect ones of God, who flourished in the first beginning of the race, to whom God spoke and delivered His will for the guidance of mankind.” O luck, a find! I thought. To be spoken to by God, to be delivered from all uncertainty and doubt, to feel His tangible presence, that would solve the whole problem of my life! “Well my friend!” I eagerly asked, “Will the book help me to become one like those happy Rishis, and have there been many Rishis, actually produced by following the guidance of the Vedas?” “Stranger!” said my interlocutor, “No, you know that Rishis are born only once in one cycle of the world?” “What was the Book good for then?” I cried, “and why do you display it at all in the exhibition? Send it to some curiosity-shop. The exhibition is intended to exhibit specimens of things purchasable or obtainable.” The Brahmin smiled at the show of petulance and I turned away disappointed.
Nearby was another camp, large, neat, and richly appointed. Everything about it was spick and span, everything up-to-date. The shop-people were active, attentive and obliging. At my slightest motion towards the camp, they came offering their services and assured me that their establishment was the one best equipped in the country and that they possessed varieties, suiting every taste and temperament. Their great book – the Bible – spoke about the son of God, who lived the life of a man and yet was God.
The statement seemed to me somewhat abstruse, but then the appearance and affability of the gentlemen had already won my good opinion. “You speak of a son of God” said I, “that is better than being a Rishi. Pray friend! Let me see the book which will show me the way to become a son of God.” “What version do you want?” one enquired, “There are several available.” I felt doubtful what to say. Then a thought occurred to me. “Which version,” I asked, “has produced the largest number of sons of God?” The question produced a surprising effect. The gentlemen fell back and seemed to be wanting an answer. At last, one said, “You have misunderstood us, I am afraid. Th ere is no more to be a son of God.” “What! Have you too run short of stock? I thought you intelligent gentlemen would see the folly of exhibiting catalogues of articles, which are no more procurable.” I withdrew in dejection.
I had not gone many paces before I noticed another stall. The shop men were a drowsy set of people, who evinced little anxiety to dispose of their goods. An emblazoned book on the shelf had attracted my attention. “What book is that?” I asked. “It is the Divine book, the Quran” was the reply. “The Divine book? Who wrote it? What does it speak about?” I enquired. It was revealed by God to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him. It contains the story of the prophets.” What? A prophet? Th at is not as much as a son of God. But yet it is not the least to be spoken to by God and to be the bearer of His Message. But my experience had made me incredulous and as a caution I enquired: “Well gentlemen! Will the book enable me to become a prophet?” “Be gone, you mad chap,” snapped the shop-keeper, “the succession of prophets is closed with our Holy Prophet Muhammad, who was the last of the line.” The same reply, I inwardly whispered and was leaving the stall in disgust, when an eager voice called to me: “Stop, stop. Sir, the Divine book will tell you the way to become a prophet.” The words captured my attention, but I was still doubtful. “What! Will the book enable me to become a prophet, and be spoken to by God like the ones regarding whom the book relates.” “What else may I mean? Why else should we love and revere a book which otherwise is, but a dead record?” The boldness and frankness of the answer served partially to allay my suspicion and I enquired: “But, tell me, brother! Has the book ever actually produced a prophet in the long course of its existence?” “Yes, Sir! Even a short while back, there was one amongst us in the little town of Qadian.” “Heretic of an Ahmadi,” growled the shop-keeper. But I had already tasted of a new hope and muttered: “Heretic or thodox, I love a book that speaks to some purpose. Friend! Give me a copy.” It was the Holy Quran.
It is the grace of Allah the Almighty that He is bringing His noble souls into the servitude of God’s Messiah. Moreover, He is divinely guiding those people who sincerely long to meet the Promised Messiahas. As a result of God’s providence, our new brother, Dr Brandon converted to Islam by believing in the Promised Messiahas and became Abdullah from Brandon. All praise belongs to Allah who made it possible.
Dr Brandon writes:
“As an individual of the true Messiah and God Jehovah’s universe, I believe that there is only one God and He is free from the conditions and limitations of trinity set by the unorthodox Christianity for the Supreme Being of God.
“I sincerely believe that Muhammad[sa] is that promised Prophet of God Almighty regarding whom Prophet Jesusas had prophesied that he would come after him.
“Moreover, I believe that the Promised Messiah of God was sent in the person of Ahmadas of Qadian. In short, my belief is that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. Muhammad is the Prophet and Messenger of Allah and Ahmad is the Promised Messiah.
“I have come to this conclusion after careful consideration and deep study. Along the way, I had to fight a dangerous battle with predicaments and temptations and encounter a variety of contrivances.
“Finally, after blind nominal following of the principles of Christian religion, I have attained that eternal life and blessings which come through the guidance of the Holy Quran. At present, hundreds of other individuals like me are ready [to do the same].
“I believe that the Holy Quran is the word of God, which was revealed to the Holy Prophetsa for the betterment of God’s creation.
“I am a servant of humanity. This is certainly my mission. Now, if God chooses me to guide people towards the way of [eternal] life, I say, ‘O God, the Lord! I am present. I am Your humble servant. Take my services for Your glory in the kingdom of faith.’”
AG Brandon DSCDB, Former Preacher of EP Mission, Jerusalem, Palestine
James William Leader
The news of Brother James William Leader’s conversion to Islam has been mentioned in the last the letter. Friends will be happy to hear that Brother William Leader is showing perseverance in his faith. Below is the summary of the letter that he wrote to Hazrat Khalifatul Masih:
“After studying different religious sects and various faiths for three years, I find my satisfaction in the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. I have been offered the position of pastor by the Roman Catholic Church and by many other Christian churches. However, my conscience never acknowledged [the false doctrine of] the divinity of Jesus and the concept of resurrection of Christ. That is why I have always denied this position. Eventually, I found the final destination and had the honour of being the member of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. I am proud that I was named Mahmud after the holy leader of the Jamaat.”
Lectures
Map of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, 1879
Quarter weekly sermons are being delivered in Hyde Park on a regular basis. A very interesting series of questions and answers follows them for hours. Seekers of truth regularly come to the [mission] house for research.
In addition to these sermons, this week, a lecture by Maulvi Fateh Muhammad Sayal on the attributes of Islam was held at Theosophy Lodge, Croydon which was listened to attentively.
At the request of the organisers of the Lodge, Maulvi Sahib will deliver another lecture over there.
Ahmadiyyat and the British Press
Articles of Chaudhry Fateh Muhammad Sahib have been published in many magazines. Among them is the British Empire Union magazine, which has generously published an article carrying the teachings of the Promised Messiahas about Jihad, the bloody Mahdi, the pacifist friendly way of tabligh, etc. Its summary will be presented to the readers in another letter, insha-Allah.
On the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha this year, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin, with the support of Humanity First Germany, was able to off er 491 sacrifices in 713 places across the country, benefiting 52,230 people.
Our missionaries and local muallims have traveled to remote areas of the country – where there are many underprivileged people who do not have access to meat throughout the year – and distributed the sacrificial meat, alhamdolillah.
In addition, sacrificial animals were donated to government welfare institutions on the occasion of Eid.
A ceremony was held on 28 July 2020 at the Governor’s House in Cotonou, which was attended by the Amir Jamaat of Benin, along with a five-member delegation. Amir Sahib told the media that as per our tradition every year, we were offering sacrifice on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha this year as well, so that the meat could be delivered to the needy.
As the honourable governor was not in the city due to his busy schedule, his secretary welcomed our delegation and appreciated our efforts. The event was also attended by the assistant minister for social affairs and microfinance and he also thanked the Jamaat for its efforts. The event was covered by the digital media including ORTB, Canal 3 TV, E-Tele and the newspaper La Nation.
After the ceremony, a delegation of Jamaat Benin went to the ministry of social affairs, where the director for the disabled and elderly (who have two institutions for the care of persons with disabilities) welcomed the delegation. Sacrificial animals were offered by the delegation for the disabled. Later, sacrificial animals and other items were also offered by the delegation at the Government Mental Hospital and Civil Jail of Cotonou.
On 29 July 2020, a ceremony was held at the Governor’s House in Porto-Novo, the capital of Benin, in which the governor was briefed on the donation of sacrificial animals by Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Benin on the occasion of Eid. He was very happy to hear about these donations. He sent his representative along with the Jamaat delegtion, which went to the Porto-Novo Civil Prison and a centre for the mentally impaired to distribute the sacrificial animals and other items.
On 29 July 2020, the team of E-Tele, a private TV channel, came to Jamaat’s mission house in Cotonou, which was preparing a report on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha in Benin. They interviewed Amir Jamaat Benin and covered Islamic philosophy about the sacrifice in their broadcast.
May Allah the Almighty bestow the best reward on all those who offered sacrifices and those who participated in them in any way and may He grant them the power of sacrifice more than ever before. Amin
In this third year of Al Hakam, we will present a selection of incidents from the blessed life of the Promised Messiah, peace be upon him, this time, with some more details
14 August 1903: A Christian belonging to Bannu by the name of Gul Muhammad came to Qadian and indulged in a discourteous argument with the Promised Messiahas before returning with the same attitude. After he left, the Promised Messiahas saw in a dream that Gul Muhammad was applying collyrium to his eyes. The Promised Messiahas said that this was an indication that he would be guided aright. Several years later, it was heard that he had reverted to Islam. In this regard, Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Sadiqra added that he had received a postcard from the widow of the well-known Dr Pennell of Bannu, wherein she stated that Gul Muhammad had left Christianity and had reverted to his original faith, Islam.
14 August 1907: On this date, the Promised Messiahas received an Urdu revelation:
آج ہمارے گھر میں پیغمبر صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم آئے، آگئے، عزّت اور سلامتی
“Today the Holy Prophet, on whom be the peace and blessings of Allah, came to our house. Along came honour and security.”
15 August 1898: The enemies of the Promised Messiahas were always thinking of new ways of derision and injury against him. Once, they reported against him by wrongfully suggesting that he was not paying income tax to the government, in spite of the fact that he was liable to be assessed for it. While investigating this income tax case, Munshi Tajuddin Sahib Tehsildar of Batala, District Gurdaspur visited Qadian on this day. He recorded the account of the Promised Messiahas and some locals too. Later, the Promised Messiahas summed up this legal battle as a fresh sign.
16 August 1888: The Promised Messiahas guided a notable Muslim cleric of his time, Munshi Syed Mazhar Hussain of Allahabad, while replying to his letter on the principles of commentary of the Holy Quran. Hazrat Ahmadas shed light upon two main groups of verses of the Holy Quran and steered him towards the right path so that he could avoid further misunderstanding.
16 August 1902: The Promised Messiahas explained to Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra, while replying to his letter, the true philosophy of prayers, trust in God, steadfastness against all forms of adversities and blessings and bounties of Allah for his true servants. Huzooras stated that he had prayed for him, so much so that if such fervent prayers had been done for a dried branch of a tree, it would have been restored to life. Huzooras said that even so, he was not exhausted.
17 August 1884: The Promised Messiahas conveyed to Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira that his two letters were received earlier, but he was suffering from multiple health issues. Hazrat Ahmadas stated that these ailments were shaking him so much that he was considering spending at least one month in an area of high altitude to beat the harshness of summer.
17 August 1887: The Promised Messiahas wrote a letter to Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra expressing his curiosity about the well-being of Hazrat Hakim Sahibra as he was not in contact for quite some time. Hazrat Ahmadas updated him regarding unprecedented rainfall in Qadian as some old folks of Qadian had stated that they had never experienced such a heavy downpour in their entire lives. In this letter, Huzooras wrote to Hazrat Hakim Sahibra to search for a job in Kashmir for one of his personal workers. Hazrat Ahmadas sent basic information of the said person, which depicts Huzoor’sas gracious care and deep observation for his personal helpers.
Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddin, Khalifatul Masih Ira
17 August 1895: The Promised Messiahas updated Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira about the ongoing printing stage of his two books: Nur-ul-Quran and Minan-ur-Rahman. In this letter, Huzooras also mentioned that the time since Hazrat Munshi Sahib’sra last visit to Qadian had been substantial, so he should consider visiting Qadian by availing any approaching holidays.
17 August 1895: The Promised Messiah, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas says that one day, when he was reading the Holy Quran and pondering over it with deep concentration, his eyes stopped at a certain verse regarding Mecca. This verse appeared before his eyes extraordinarily and Huzooras felt as though it was a treasure of knowledge and of spiritual secrets. Hazrat Ahmadas became very glad and exclaimed, “Alhamdolillah!” Huzooras says that it was made clear to him that that verse pointed towards the excellence of the Arabic language and also to the fact that Arabic is the mother of all languages. It is this theme that he has expounded on and explained in his book Minan-ur-Rahman. Hazrat Ahmadas intended this book to be published in December 1895, but for some reason it could not be published in his lifetime. It eventually was published in 1915. Later, Hazrat Sheikh Muhammad Ahmad Mazhar Sahib produced a series of books on this topic, on the origin of languages in light of this above-mentioned book of the Promised Messiahas.
17 August 1899: The editor of Al Hakam, Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira recorded a faith-inspiring and interesting incident of someone from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. He stated:
“A few days ago, someone wrote to the Promised Messiah from Bareilly, enquiring, ‘Are you the same Promised Messiah foretold in the various ahadith of God’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him? Respond by taking an oath on God Almighty.’ As was the custom, I responded to the person with a few lines from Tiryaq-ul-Qulub, a book of the Promised Messiahas, which should have been a sufficient response. The individual was not satisfied. He wrote to me again and addressed me saying, ‘I would like Hazrat Mirza Sahib to write on oath, with his own hand, as to whether he is the same Promised Messiah who has been mentioned in the ahadith and the Holy Quran.’
Hazrat Sheikh Yaqub Ali Irfanira
“After the evening Prayer, I placed an ink-pot, pen and paper before the Promised Messiahas and submitted that a certain individual had written such and such request. Huzooras took the paper at once and wrote the following lines:
‘Previously, I have already written the following declaration clearly in my books as an oath before the people, but once again, on this document, I swear by God Almighty, in Whose hand is my life, and write that I am the same Promised Messiah who has been foretold by the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and who has been mentioned in the authentic ahadith recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim and other books from among the six authentic books of hadith.
وکفیٰ باللہ شھیدا
“‘[And Allah is sufficient as a witness.]
“‘The writer, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. May Allah forgive him and support him. 17 August 1899.’
“In relating this account, I have two objectives in mind. Firstly, so that the faith of our own community may be increased and so that they too can experience the same joy and pleasure that the fortunate ones present here at the time felt. Those of us present here at the time must wholeheartedly profess that our faith was revived. Secondly, those who reject the Promised Messiahas and think ill of him ought to reflect with a calm heart and contemplate on whether a committed liar and a self-made deceiver can possess the grace and courage to swear in this manner by God, the Possessor of Glory, in such a gathering? Allah is the greatest! Allah is the greatest! Indeed, Allah is the greatest!”
17 August 1903: The Promised Messiahas embarked on a journey towards Gurdaspur, after offering Zuhr and Asr prayers in congregation. The purpose behind this was to attend the hearing of a lawsuit filed by Karam Din. Hazrat Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmud Ahmadra was also part of the entourage. Hazrat Ahmadas made a night-stay in Batala at a lodging situated near the railway station. Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered there in congregation.
18 August 1888: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra. In the reply, Huzooras mentioned the improving health of his son, Bashir Awwal and also advised Hazrat Hakim Sahibra to be cautious before further dealing with Huzoor’sas elder son, Mirza Fazl Ahmad Sahib, who was serving in Kashmir in those days, where Hazrat Hakim Sahibra was residing. Hazrat Ahmadas mentioned and lamented his family members’ inappropriate approach towards divine and religious matters.
18 August 1902: Mirza Ahsan Baig Sahib formally requested to be part of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat. He was the brother-in-law of Muhammadi Begum.
19 August 1893: In response to a letter from Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira, the Promised Messiahas detailed the account of when Huzooras was in Amritsar for a religious debate. Huzooras expressed his curiosity as to why Hazrat Munshi Sahibra was not aware of the actual account of events. Many opponents rose against the Messiah of the age, but they all faced their own humiliating ends at their destined hours. During this aforementioned trip, Maulvi Abdul Haq, Maulvi Muhammad Hussain of Batala, Mian Abdul Hayye of Lakhokay and Maulvi Abdul Jabbar were invited for a mubahala (prayer dual) through registered post, which was responded to by these individuals respectively. Thousands of local residents of Amritsar witnessed this historic episode unfold, which also included some Christian missionaries who reached the location set for mubahala out of their curiosity.
Hazrat Munshi Rustam Alira
19 August 1896: The Promised Messiahas wrote to Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra and confirmed that his donation of 300 rupees reached him three days ago. Hazrat Ahmadas expressed his utmost appreciation and prayed for his abundant rewards in both worlds. Huzooras stated that he had been occupied in compiling some research papers, which Huzooras mentioned in his previous letter to Seith Sahibra. Hazrat Ahmadas wrote that to fortify his research regarding certain topics, he needed testimonies of different Jewish scholars. Huzooras wrote that only one point was left, which Hazrat Munshi Zainuddin Muhammad Ibrahimra promised to help obtain from a certain Jewish source.
20 August 1885: The Promised Messiahas shared his famous supplication with Hazrat Hakim Maulvi Nuruddinra, while replying to his letter, which runs as follows:
اے میرے محسن اور اے میرے خدا!میں ایک تیرا ناکارہ بندہ پرمعصیت اور پر غفلت ہوں۔ تو نے مجھ سے ظلم پر ظلم دیکھا اور انعام پر انعام کیا اور گناہ پر گناہ دیکھا اور احسان پر احسان کیا۔ تو نے ہمیشہ میری پردہ پوشی کی اور اپنی بےشمار نعمتوں سے مجھے متمتع کیا۔ سو اَب بھی مجھ نالائق اور پُر گناہ پررحم کر اور میری بے باکی اور ناسپاسی کو معاف فرمااور مجھ کو میرے اس غم سے نجات بخش کہ بجز تیرے اور کوئی چارہ گر نہیں۔ آمین ثم آمین
“O Benevolent God! I am a worthless, sinful and heedless servant of Yours. You have seen me commit injustices upon injustices, yet always bestowed rewards upon rewards. You have seen me commit sin upon sin and yet You conferred Your favour upon favour. You have always concealed my flaws and granted me countless bounties. Thus, even now, grant mercy to this unworthy and sinful one and forgive me my boldness and ungratefulness. Alleviate this sorrow of mine – for there is none else save You who can help.”
20 August 1899: The Promised Messiahas replied to a letter of Hazrat Haji Seith Allah Rakha Abdur Rahmanra, in which Seith Sahibra informed Huzooras about success in a certain journey. Hazrat Ahmadas wrote that he did not know about the motive of his aforementioned journey, but he prayed fervently for the success of his wishes.
20 August 1903: The Promised Messiahas arrived back in Qadian from Gurdaspur from the aforementioned journey.
20 August 1904: The Promised Messiahas departed for his journey of Lahore, during the course of which he delivered the historic lecture now famously known as Lecture Lahore.
Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname celebrated Eid-ul-Adha on 31 July 2020. Due to the Covid-19 regulations in the country, mosques were not allowed to open their doors for worshippers. Jamaat members offered their Eid prayers at home.
In previous years, the government would permit the Jamaat to slaughter animals in a designated area in the Jamaat headquarters, after inspecting all conditions and requirements of the site.
Traditionally, animals are slaughtered by members themselves. This year, animals were slaughtered at the abattoir, after which the meat was brought to the mosque for packaging and distribution.
The Jamaat created strict health and safety regulations that were followed by all attendees. Khuddam and Ansar formed teams in accordance to the guidelines and worked tirelessly for a smooth run of the day.
Due to the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, many families were in dire need of support. The Jamaat sacrificed three cows and eight sheep, of which most of the meat was distributed among members, needy families in different levels of society, as well as orphanages and retirement homes, including Stichting In de ruimte, Lotjeshuis, Kinderdorp, Huize Campagne and Huize Ashiana.
Two national newspapers, De Ware Tijd and Dagblad Suriname published detailed reports as well as multiple pictures of the Eid celebrations. Starnieuws.com, the most read online news platform of the country produced an article and a video report of the proceedings. Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname was praised for its efforts and structured organisation of the day.
Abdoel Moetlieb Mahmood Sahib, Secretary External Affairs and the most senior member of Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname, has been serving as the head of the qurbani department for the last 50 years. Dagblad Suriname published Abdoel Moetlieb Mahmood Sahib’s picture on their front page and acknowledged his great work, alhamdulillah.
We would like to request the readers of Al Hakam to remember Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Suriname and the donors in their prayers. May Allah the Almighty enable us to serve mankind in the best manner.
During this year’s unique Eid-ul-Adha, Humanity First Germany, with the help of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bulgaria, had the opportunity to serve humanity by volunteering to serve those in need.
In celebration of Eid, the youth of the Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Bulgaria helped prepare, package and distribute food packets filled with the Qurbani meat to different areas throughout Bulgaria, through the help of the local NGOs and the municipalities.
The food packages were delivered to people with special needs and those who are victims of severe poverty. This gesture was very much appreciated.
Moreover, in the city of Plovdiv (2nd largest city of Bulgaria and European capital of Culture 2019), 101 food packages were distributed to patients and medical staff at the orthopaedics and traumatology clinic at the St Georges University Hospital.
The Khuddam together with the head of the clinic personally visited and presented each patient with their lunch along with giving them sincere wishes for a speedy recovery. All the patients as well as staff were deeply appreciative of this and thanked everyone who was there to help.
May Allah the Almighty reward all those who participated in this project. Amin
